Clene Inc
For the period ended Sep 30, 2024. Filed Nov 13, 2024.
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Sep 30, 2024 · Filed Nov 13, 2024
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Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Note1. Nature of the Business
Clene Inc. (the “Company,” “we,” “us,” or similar such references) is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company pioneering the discovery, development, and commercialization of novel clean-surfaced nanotechnology therapeutics. We have developed an electro-crystal-chemistry drug development platform which enables production of concentrated, stable, highly active, clean-surfaced nanocrystal suspensions. We have multiple drug assets currently in development for applications primarily in neurology. Our efforts are currently focused on addressing the high unmet medical needs in central nervous system disorders including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (“ALS”), multiple sclerosis (“MS”), and Parkinson’s disease (“PD”). Our patented electro-crystal-chemistry manufacturing platform further enables us to develop very low concentration dietary supplements to advance the health and well-being of broad populations. These dietary supplements can vary greatly and include nanocrystals of varying composition, shapes and sizes as well as ionic solutions with diverse metallic constituents. Dietary supplements are marketed and distributed through our wholly owned subsidiary, dOrbital, Inc., or through an exclusive license with4Life Research LLC (“4Life”), an international supplier of health supplements, stockholder, and related party (see Note15).
Clene Nanomedicine, Inc. (“Clene Nanomedicine”) became a public company on* December 30, 2020 (*the “Closing Date”) when it completed a reverse recapitalization (the “Reverse Recapitalization”) with Tottenham Acquisition I Limited (“Tottenham”), Tottenham’s wholly-owned subsidiary and our predecessor, Chelsea Worldwide Inc., and Creative Worldwide Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Chelsea Worldwide Inc. On the Closing Date, Chelsea Worldwide Inc. changed its name to Clene Inc. and listed its shares of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share (“Common Stock”) on the Nasdaq Capital Market (“Nasdaq”) under the symbol “CLNN.”
Going Concern
We incurred a loss from operations of $7.8 million and $9.5 million for thethree months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively; and $24.4 million and $30.6 million for thenine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively. Our accumulated deficit was $268.6 million and $242.7 million as of* September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023*, respectively. Our cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities totaled $14.6 million and $35.0 million as of* September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023*, respectively, and net cash used in operating activities was $16.5 million and $23.0 million for thenine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively.
We have incurred significant losses and negative cash flows from operations since our inception. We havenot generated significant revenues since our inception, and we donot anticipate generating significant revenues unless we successfully complete development and obtain regulatory approval for commercialization of a drug candidate. We expect to incur additional losses in the future, particularly as we advance the development of our clinical-stage drug candidates, continue research and development of our preclinical drug candidates, and initiate additional clinical trials of, and seek regulatory approval for, these and other future drug candidates. We expect that within the nexttwelve months, we willnot have sufficient cash and other resources on hand to sustain our current operations or meet our obligations as they become due unless we obtain additional financing. Additionally, pursuant to our term loan with Avenue Venture Opportunities Fund, L.P. (“Avenue”), we are required to maintain unrestricted cash and cash equivalents of at least $5.0 million to avoid acceleration of the full balance of the loan (see Note8). These conditions raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.
To mitigate our funding needs, we plan to raise additional funding, including exploring equity financing and offerings, debt financing, licensing or collaboration arrangements withthird parties, as well as utilizing our existing at-the-market facility, equity purchase agreement, and potential proceeds from the exercise of outstanding warrants and stock options. These plans are subject to market conditions and reliance onthird parties, and there isno assurance that effective implementation of our plans will result in the necessary funding to continue current operations. During thethree months ended* September 30, 2024*, we generated $2.1 million of gross proceeds from our equity distribution agreement (the “ATM Agreement”) and subsequent to* September 30, 2024*, we raised $3.5 million from a registered direct offering of equity securities and an additional $3.8 million that we received as of* September 30, 2024from separate, concurrent private placements (the “Private Placements”) of equity securities that closed on October 1, 2024.We have implemented cost-saving initiatives, including delaying and reducing certain research and development programs and commercialization efforts and elimination of certain staff positions. We have concluded that our plans donot* alleviate the substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern beyondone year from the date the condensed consolidated financial statements are issued.
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The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming we will continue as a going concern, which contemplates the realization of assets and satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business. As a result, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements donot include any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of assets and their carrying amounts, or the amounts and classification of liabilities that* may*result should we be unable to continue as a going concern.
Note2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Clene Inc. and our wholly-owned subsidiaries, Clene Nanomedicine, Inc., a subsidiary incorporated in Delaware, Clene Australia Pty Ltd (“Clene Australia”), a subsidiary incorporated in Australia, Clene Netherlands B.V. (“Clene Netherlands”), a subsidiary incorporated in the Netherlands, and dOrbital, Inc., a subsidiary incorporated in Delaware, after elimination of all intercompany accounts and transactions. We have prepared the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements in accordance with United States (“U.S.”) Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) for interim financial reporting and as required by Regulation S-X, Rule10-01. The condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the same basis as our audited annual consolidated financial statements and, in the opinion of management, reflect all adjustments, which are normal and recurring in nature, necessary for fair financial statement presentation. The financial data and other information disclosed in the condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes for thethree andnine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023* are unaudited.
Results of operations for thethree andnine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023* arenot necessarily indicative of the results for the entire fiscal year or any other period. The condensed consolidated financial statements for thethree andnine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023* should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form10-K.
Reverse Stock Split
Effective* July 11, 2024 (the “Effective Date”), we filed a Certificate of Amendment to our Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware, to effect a1*-for-20 reverse stock split (the “Reverse Stock Split”) of our Common Stock. Beginning with the opening of trading on the Effective Date, our Common Stock began trading on Nasdaq on a split-adjusted basis under the same symbol, “CLNN.” As a result of the Reverse Stock Split, every 20 shares of our Common Stock issued and outstanding were automatically combined and converted into1 validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable share of Common Stock. In lieu of any fractional shares, stockholders received an amount in cash (without interest) equal to: (i) the number of shares of Common Stock held by such stockholder before the Reverse Stock Split that would otherwise have been exchanged for such fractional shares multiplied by (ii) the closing price of our Common Stock on Nasdaq on the trading day immediately preceding the Effective Date.
The Reverse Stock Split didnot reduce the total number of authorized shares of Common Stock or preferred stock, par value $0.0001 per share (“Preferred Stock”), or change the par values of the Company’s Common Stock or Preferred Stock. All outstanding stock options, warrants, rights to restricted stock awards, convertible debt, and contingent earn-out shares entitling their holders to purchase or receive shares of Common Stock were adjusted as a result of the Reverse Stock Split, in accordance with the terms of each such security. In addition, the number of shares reserved for issuance pursuant to our Amended2020 Stock Plan was also appropriately adjusted. All historical share and per share data for the periods presented in these condensed consolidated financial statements, including for periods ending prior to* July 11, 2024,has been adjusted to reflect the1*-for-20 Reverse Stock Split on a retroactive basis as if the Reverse Stock Split occurred as of the earliest period presented. As a result of the Reverse Stock Split, approximately $12,000 of par value was reclassified from Common Stock to Additional Paid-In Capital.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, and the reported amounts of expenses. We base our estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable. Actual results* may*differ from those estimates or assumptions. Estimates are periodically reviewed in light of changes in circumstances, facts, and experience, and any changes in estimates will be recorded in future periods as they develop.
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Risks and Uncertainties
We are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and believe that changes in any of the following areas could have a material adverse effect on future financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows: ability to obtain additional financing; regulatory approval and market acceptance of, and reimbursement for, product candidates; performance ofthird-party contract research organizations (“CROs”) and manufacturers upon which we rely; protection of our intellectual property; litigation or claims against us based on intellectual property, patent, product, regulatory, or other factors; and our ability to attract and retain employees necessary to support our growth. The product candidates we develop require approvals from regulatory agencies prior to commercial sales. There can beno assurance that our current and future product candidates will receive the necessary approvals or be commercially successful. If we are denied approval or approval is delayed, it will have a material adverse impact on our business and our condensed consolidated financial statements.
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Financial instruments which potentially subject us to significant concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash. Our cash is held in financial institutions and amounts on deposit* mayat times exceed federally insured limits. We havenot* experienced any losses on our deposits of cash and donot believe that we are subject to unusual credit risk beyond the normal credit risk associated with commercial banking relationships.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
We consider all short-term investments with original maturities of90 days or less when purchased to be cash equivalents.
Restricted Cash
We classify cash as restricted when it is unavailable for withdrawal or use in our general operating activities. Restricted cash is classified as current and noncurrent on the condensed consolidated balance sheets based on the nature of the restriction. Our restricted cash balance includes contractually restricted deposits related to our corporate credit card.
Marketable Securities
Marketable securities are investments with original maturities of more than90 days when purchased. We donot invest in securities with original maturities of more thanone year. Marketable debt securities are considered available-for-sale, and are recorded at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses included as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income until realized. Realized gains and losses are included in other income (expense), net, on the basis of specific identification. The cost of marketable securities is adjusted for amortization of premiums or accretion of discounts to maturity, and such amortization or accretion is included in other income (expense), net.
Inventory
Inventory is stated at historic cost on afirst-infirst-out basis. Our inventory consisted of $114,000 in raw materials and $14,000 in finished goods as of* September 30, 2024*, and $23,000 in raw material and $14,000 in finished goods as of* December 31, 2023*. Inventory relates to our dietary supplement products.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Property and equipment consist of laboratory and office equipment, computer software, and leasehold improvements. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated economic useful lives of the assets, which are 3 to 5 years for laboratory equipment,3 to 7 years for furniture and fixtures, and 2 to 5 years for computer software. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of the estimated lease term or the estimated useful life of the assets. Costs for capital assetsnot yet placed into service are capitalized as construction-in-progress and depreciated or amortized in accordance with the above useful lives once placed into service. Upon retirement or sale, the related cost and accumulated depreciation and amortization are removed from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is included in the condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss. Maintenance and repairs that donot improve or extend the lives of the respective assets are expensed to operations as incurred.
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We capitalize costs to obtain or develop computer software for internal use, including development costs incurred during the software development stage and costs to obtain software for access and conversion of historical data. We also capitalize costs to modify, upgrade, or enhance existing internal-use software that result in additional functionality. We expense costs incurred during the preliminary project stage, training costs, data conversion costs, and maintenance costs.
Debt
When debt is issued and a derivative is required to be separated (e.g., bifurcated conversion option) or another separate freestanding financial instrument (e.g., warrant) is issued, costs and fees incurred are allocated to the instruments issued (or bifurcated) in proportion to the allocation of proceeds. When some portions of the costs and fees relate to a bifurcated derivative or freestanding financial instrument that is being subsequently measured at fair value, those allocated costs are expensed immediately. Debt discounts, debt premiums, and debt issuance costs related to debt are recorded as deductions that net against the principal value of the debt and are amortized to interest expense over the contractual term of the debt using the effective interest method.
In accordance with ASC470-20, Debt with Conversion and Other Options, when we issue debt with warrants, we treat the warrants as a debt discount, recorded as a contra-liability against the debt, and amortize the balance over the life of the underlying debt as interest expense in the condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss. The offset to the contra-liability is recorded as additional paid-in capital in the condensed consolidated balance sheets if the warrants arenot treated as a derivative or liability under ASC480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity (“ASC480”). Otherwise, the offset to the contra-liability is recorded as a warrant liability in the condensed consolidated balance sheets and is subject to re-measurement to fair value at each balance sheet date, with any changes in fair value recognized in the condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss. If the debt is retired early, the associated debt discount is then recognized immediately as interest expense in the condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss.
Convertible Debt
In accordance with ASU2020-06, Debt—Debt with Conversion and Other Options (Subtopic470*-20) and Derivatives and Hedging—Contracts in Entity’s Own Equity (Subtopic815-40): Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts in an Entity’s Own Equity*, when we issue notes with conversion features, we evaluate if the conversion feature is freestanding or embedded. If the conversion feature is embedded, we donot separate the conversion feature from the host contract for convertible notes that arenot required to be accounted for as derivatives, or that donot result in substantial premiums accounted for as paid-in-capital. Consequently, we account for a convertible note as a single liability measured at its amortized cost as long asno other features require separation and recognition as derivatives. If the conversion feature is freestanding, or is embedded and meets the requirements to be separated, we account for the conversion feature as a derivative under ASC815, Derivatives and Hedging (“ASC815”). We record the derivative instrument at fair value at inception, and subsequently re-measure to fair value at each reporting period and immediately prior to the extinguishment of the derivative instrument, with any changes recorded in the condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss.
Leases
At inception of a contract, we determine if a contract meets the definition of a lease. We determine if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time. We assess throughout the period of use whether we have both of the following: (i) the right to obtain substantially all the economic benefits from use of the identified asset, and (ii) the right to direct the use of the identified asset. This determination is reassessed if the terms of the contract are changed. Leases are classified as operating or finance leases based on the terms of the lease agreement and certain characteristics of the identified asset. Right-of-use assets and lease liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present value of the future lease payments less any lease incentives received. At the lease commencement date, the discount rate implicit in the lease is used to discount the lease liability if readily determinable. Ifnot readily determinable or leases donot contain an implicit rate, our incremental borrowing rate is used as the discount rate. Our policy is tonot record leases with an original term oftwelve months or less within the condensed consolidated balance sheets and we recognize lease expense for these short-term leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
Certain lease agreements* mayrequire us to pay additional amounts for taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other expenses, which are generally referred to as non-lease components. Such variable non-lease components are treated as variable lease payments and recognized in the period in which the obligation for these payments is incurred. Variable lease components and variable non-lease components arenot* measured as part of the right-of-use asset and liability. Only when lease components and their associated non-lease components are fixed are they accounted for as a single lease component and are recognized as part of a right-of-use asset and liability. Total contract consideration is allocated to the fixed lease and non-lease component. This policy election applies consistently to all asset classes under lease agreements.
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Leases* maycontain clauses for renewal at our option. Payments to be made in option periods are recognized as part of the right-of-use lease assets and lease liabilities when it is reasonably certain that the option to extend the lease will be exercised, or isnot* at our option. We determine whether the reasonably certain threshold is met by considering contract-, asset-, market-, and entity-based factors. Operating lease expense, which is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term, and the amortization of finance lease right-of-use assets, which are included in property and equipment and depreciated, are included in research and development or general and administrative expenses consistent with the leased assets’ primary use. Accretion on the liabilities for finance leases is included in interest expense.
Contingent Earn-Out Liabilities
In connection with the Reverse Recapitalization, certain Clene Nanomedicine stockholders are entitled to receive additional shares of Common Stock (the “Clene Nanomedicine Contingent Earn-out”) as follows: (i)166,928 shares if (a) the volume-weighted average price (“VWAP”) of our Common Stock equals or exceeds $300.00 (the “Milestone1 Price”) in anytwenty trading days within athirty trading day period withinthree years of the Reverse Recapitalization or (b) the change of control price equals or exceeds the Milestone1 Price if a change of control transaction occurs within three years of the closing of the Reverse Recapitalization (the requirements in (a) and (b) collectively, “Milestone1”); (ii)125,200 shares if (a) the VWAP of our Common Stock equals or exceeds $400.00 (the “Milestone2 Price”) in anytwenty trading days within athirty trading day period within five years of the closing of the Reverse Recapitalization or (b) the change of control price equals or exceeds the Milestone2 Price if a change of control transaction occurs within five years of the Reverse Recapitalization (the requirements in (a) and (b) collectively, “Milestone2”). If Milestone1 isnot achieved but Milestone2 is achieved, the Clene Nanomedicine stockholders will receive additional shares equal to Milestone1. Tottenham’s former officers, directors, sponsor, and public stockholders (the “Initial Stockholders”) are entitled to receive earn-out shares (the “Initial Stockholders Contingent Earn-out,” and collectively with the Clene Nanomedicine Contingent Earn-out, the “Contingent Earn-outs”) as follows: (i)18,750 shares upon the achievement of Milestone1; and (ii)18,750 shares upon achievement of Milestone2. If Milestone1 isnot achieved but Milestone2 is achieved, the Initial Stockholders will receive additional shares equal to Milestone1.
In accordance with ASC815, the Contingent Earn-outs arenot indexed to our own stock and therefore were accounted for as a liability at the Reverse Recapitalization date and are subsequently remeasured to fair value at each reporting date with changes recorded as a component of other income (expense), net.
Common Stock Warrants
We account for common stock warrants as either equity- or liability-classified instruments based on an assessment of the warrant terms. The assessment considers whether the warrants are freestanding financial instruments pursuant to ASC480, meet the definition of a liability pursuant to ASC480, and whether the warrants meet all the requirements for equity classification under ASC815, including whether the warrants are indexed to our Common Stock, among other conditions for equity classification. This assessment, which requires the use of professional judgment, is conducted at the time of warrant issuance and, for liability-classified warrants, at each reporting period end date while the warrants are outstanding.
Grant Funding
We* maysubmit applications to receive grant funding from governmental and non-governmental entities. We account for grants by analogizing to the grant accounting model under IAS20,* Accounting for Government Grants and Disclosure of Government Assistance (“IAS20”). We recognize grant funding without conditions or continuing performance obligations, including certain research and development tax credits, as other income in the condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss. We accrue certain research and development tax credits receivable in other current assets (see Note4) in an amount equal to the qualifying expenses incurred in each period multiplied by the applicable reimbursement percentage and we recognize other income in the condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss. After submission of our tax returns, we receive a cash refund of certain research and development tax credits and relieve the receivable.
We recognize grant funding with conditions or continuing performance obligations as a reduction in research and development expenses in the period during which the related qualifying expenses are incurred and as the conditions or performance obligations are fulfilled. Any amount received in advance of fulfilling such conditions or performance obligations is recorded in accrued liabilities (see Note6) if the conditions or performance obligations are expected to be met within the nexttwelve months. We recognized grant funding as a reduction of research and development expenses of $1.3 million and $0.2 million during thethree months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively; and $3.3 million and $0.3 million during thenine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively.
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In* October 2023we were awarded a grant (“the NIH Grant”) in collaboration with Columbia University, the prime awardee, and Synapticure, a neurology specialty health clinic, from the National Institute of Health (“NIH”). The NIH Grant was awarded pursuant to the Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act to support up to afour*-year Expanded Access Program (the “ACT-EAP”) for CNM-Au8 treatment of ALS. The NIH Grant totaled $45.1 million and subawards to us* maytotal up to $30.9 million in aggregate and mayextend to August 31, 2027.These subawards are awarded annually and subaward funds are paid to us as reimbursement for cash spent by us to support the ACT-EAP. Thefirst* subaward was granted on* April 9, 2024for $7.3 million for the period from September 25, 2023to August 31, 2024,of which we have received reimbursements totaling $4.7 million for expenses incurred plus prepayments of certain ACT-EAP expenses and have incurred an additional $0.7 million of expenses as of September 30, 2024* for which we expect to receive reimbursement. We are currently in discussions with Columbia University regarding the subaward for thesecond year of the NIH Grant.
Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions
Our functional and reporting currency is the U.S. dollar (“USD”). Clene Australia and Clene Netherlands determined their functional currencies to be the Australian dollar and Euro, respectively. The results of our foreign currency operations are translated into USD at the average exchange rates during the period, assets and liabilities are translated using the exchange rate as of the balance sheet date, and stockholders’ equity (deficit) is translated using historical rates. Adjustments from the translation of the results of our foreign currency operations are excluded from net loss and are accumulated in a separate component of stockholders’ equity (deficit). We also incur foreign exchange transaction gains and losses for purchases denominated in foreign currencies. Foreign exchange transaction gains and losses are included in other income (expense), net, as incurred.
Comprehensive Loss
Comprehensive loss includes net loss as well as other changes in stockholders’ equity (deficit) that result from transactions and economic events other than those with stockholders. The only elements of other comprehensive loss in any periods presented were the translation of foreign currency denominated balances of Clene Australia and Clene Netherlands to USD for consolidation and our unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities.
Segment Information
We report segment information based on ASC280 Segment Reporting (“ASC280”), which defines operating segments as components of a company that engage in activities from which it* mayrecognize revenues and incur expenses, and for which operating results are regularly reviewed by the entity’s chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) to make decisions regarding resource allocation and assess performance, and for which discrete financial information is available. Effective in thefourth* quarter of2023, we revised our internal reporting processes to better align with our strategic priorities due to the immateriality of our dietary supplement operations. As a result and in accordance with ASC280, we determined that the Company is a single operating and reportable segment. Our chief executive officer is the CODM and allocates resources and assesses performance at a consolidated level. Prior to thefourth quarter of2023, we operated astwo operating and reportable segments related to our development and commercialization of drugs and dietary supplements. The change didnot require any prior period information to be recast.
Income Taxes
We account for income taxes using the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the condensed consolidated financial statements or in our tax returns. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statement basis and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded in the provision for income taxes. We assess the likelihood that our deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income and, to the extent we believe, based upon the weight of available evidence, that it is more likely thannot that all or a portion of the deferred tax assets willnot be realized, a valuation allowance is established through a charge to income tax expense. Potential for recovery of deferred tax assets is evaluated by estimating the future taxable profits expected and considering prudent and feasible tax planning strategies.
We account for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the condensed consolidated financial statements by applying atwo-step process to determine the amount of tax benefit to be recognized. First, the tax position must be evaluated to determine the likelihood that it will be sustained upon external examination by the taxing authorities. If the tax position is deemed more-likely-than-not to be sustained, the tax position is then assessed to determine the amount of benefit to recognize in the condensed consolidated financial statements. The amount of the benefit that* maybe recognized is the largest amount that has a greater than50%* likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The provision for income taxes includes the effects of any resulting tax reserves, or unrecognized tax benefits, which are considered appropriate as well as the related net interest and penalties.
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Stock-Based Compensation
We account for stock-based compensation arrangements using a fair value-based method for costs related to all share-based payments including stock options and stock awards. Stock-based compensation expense is recorded in research and development and general and administrative expenses based on the classification of the work performed by the grantees. The fair value is recognized over the period during which a grantee is required to provide services in exchange for the option award and service-based stock awards, known as the requisite service period (usually the vesting period), on a straight-line basis. For stock awards with market conditions, the fair value is recognized over the period based on the expected milestone achievement dates as the derived service period (usually the vesting period), on a straight-line basis. For stock awards with performance conditions, the grant-date fair value of these awards is the market price on the applicable grant date, and compensation expense will be recognized when the conditions become probable of being satisfied. We recognize a cumulative true-up adjustment once the conditions become probable of being satisfied as the related service period had been completed in a prior period. We generally grant stock options with afour-year requisite service period. Certain stock options* mayvest based upon performance conditions instead of service conditions, such as the achievement of regulatory milestones or financial performance measures. For the grant-date fair value, we estimate the expected term of stock options with performance conditions based upon the nature of the conditions. If the expected term isnot* estimable and the achievement of performance conditions isnot probable, we use the contractual term as the expected term. We elect to account for forfeitures as they occur, rather than estimating expected forfeitures. We determine the fair value of each share of Common Stock underlying stock-based awards using a Black-Scholes option pricing model based on the closing price of our Common Stock as reported by Nasdaq on the date of grant. The fair value of stock awards with market conditions are determined using a Monte Carlo valuation model.
Recent Accounting PronouncementsNot Yet Adopted**
In* November 2023,the FASB issued ASU2023*-07, Segment Reporting (Topic280*): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures* (“ASU2023-07”). ASU2023-07 requires, among other things, that public entities with a single reportable segment provide all the disclosures required by ASC280 and ASU2023-07, and that public entities provide all annual disclosures about a reportable segment’s profit or loss and assets currently required in interim periods. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after* December 15, 2023,and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024.We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU2023*-07.
In* December 2023,the FASB issued ASU2023*-09, Income Taxes (Topic740*): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures* (“ASU2023-09”). ASU2023-09 requires, among other things, that public entities on an annual basis disclose specific categories of the tax rate reconciliation, provide additional information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold, and disclose income taxes paid disaggregated by jurisdiction. The guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after* December 15, 2024.We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU2023*-09.
Note3. Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Marketable Securities
Available-for-Sale Securities
Available-for-sale securities as of* September 30, 2024* were as follows:
| (in thousands) | Amortized Cost | Gross Unrealized Gains | Gross Unrealized Losses | Fair Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash equivalents (contractual maturity within 90 days): | ||||
| Money market funds | $3,897 | $— | $— | $3,897 |
| Total cash equivalents | 3,897 | — | — | 3,897 |
| Cash | 10,748 | — | — | 10,748 |
| Total cash and cash equivalents | $14,645 | $— | $— | $14,645 |
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Available-for-sale securities as of* December 31, 2023* were as follows:
| (in thousands) | Amortized Cost | Gross Unrealized Gains | Gross Unrealized Losses | Fair Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash equivalents (contractual maturity within 90 days): | ||||
| U.S. Treasury securities | $19,883 | $1 | $— | $19,884 |
| Money market funds | 5,113 | — | — | 5,113 |
| Total cash equivalents | 24,996 | 1 | — | 24,997 |
| Cash | 3,824 | — | — | 3,824 |
| Total cash and cash equivalents | $28,820 | $1 | $— | $28,821 |
| Marketable securities (contractual maturity greater than 90 days but less than 1 year): | ||||
| U.S. Treasury securities | $6,179 | $— | $— | $6,179 |
| Total marketable securities | $6,179 | $— | $— | $6,179 |
We hadno realized gains or losses from the sale of available-for-sale securities during thethree andnine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*. As of* September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023*, we didnot have any allowance for credit losses or impairments of available-for-sale securities.
Note4. Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets
Prepaid expenses and other current assets as of* September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023* were as follows:
| September 30, | December 31, | |
|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 |
| Prepaid clinical and CRO expenses | $2,053 | $— |
| Metals to be used in research and development | 1,744 | 1,909 |
| Research and development tax credits receivable | 351 | 1,195 |
| Other | 777 | 568 |
| Total prepaid expenses and other current assets | $4,925 | $3,672 |
Note5. Property and Equipment, Net
Property and equipment, net, as of* September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023* were as follows:
| September 30, | December 31, | |
|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 |
| Lab equipment | $3,437 | $4,092 |
| Office equipment | 178 | 178 |
| Computer software | 459 | 459 |
| Leasehold improvements | 9,983 | 9,983 |
| Construction in progress | 1,452 | 1,438 |
| 15,509 | 16,150 | |
| Less accumulated depreciation | (7,472) | (6,887) |
| Total property and equipment, net | $8,037 | $9,263 |
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Depreciation expense recorded in research and development expense and general and administrative expense during thethree andnine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023* was as follows:
| Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 |
| General and administrative | $67 | $66 | $200 | $200 |
| Research and development | 339 | 373 | 1,040 | 1,083 |
| Total depreciation expense | $406 | $439 | $1,240 | $1,283 |
Note6. Accrued Liabilities
Accrued liabilities as of* September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023* were as follows:
| September 30, | December 31, | |
|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 |
| Accrued compensation and benefits | $3,691 | $2,120 |
| Deferred grants | 2,060 | 438 |
| Accrued CRO and clinical fees | 804 | 481 |
| Other | 178 | 681 |
| Total accrued liabilities | $6,733 | $3,720 |
Note7. Leases
We lease laboratory and office space and certain laboratory equipment under non-cancellable operating and finance leases. The carrying value of our right-of-use lease assets is substantially concentrated in our real estate leases, while the volume of lease agreements is primarily concentrated in equipment leases. We expect that, in the normal course of business, the existing leases will be renewed or replaced by similar leases.
Operating Leases
Operating leases primarily consist of real estate leases for office and laboratory space. We have three real estate leases: (i) a laboratory and manufacturing facility which commenced in* September 2021with aten-year term and an option to extend fortwo five-year periods, (ii) a laboratory and manufacturing facility which commenced in February 2022with aseven-year term and an option to extend fortwo five-year periods, and (iii) our corporate office which commenced a renewed term in September 2022forseven years with an option to extend forfive years. We didnot* recognize the payments to be made in the option periods as part of the right-of-use asset or lease liability because the exercise of the option isnot reasonably certain.
As of* September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023*, our operating lease obligations had a weighted-average discount rate of 9.6% and 9.6%, respectively, and a weighted-average remaining term of 5.7 years and 6.4 years, respectively.
Finance Leases
We didnot have any finance lease obligations as of* September 30, 2024*. Assets recorded under finance lease obligations and included within property and equipment as of* December 31, 2023* were as follows:
| December 31, | |
|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2023 |
| Lab equipment | $636 |
| Less accumulated depreciation | (449) |
| Net | $187 |
As of* December 31, 2023*, our finance lease obligations had a weighted-average interest rate of 11.0% and a weighted-average remaining term of 0.4 years.
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Maturity Analysis of Lease Obligations
The maturity analysis of our operating lease obligations as of* September 30, 2024* was as follows:
| (in thousands) | Operating Leases |
|---|---|
| 2024 (remainder) | $48 |
| 2025 | 1,458 |
| 2026 | 1,236 |
| 2027 | 1,132 |
| 2028 | 1,093 |
| 2029 | 649 |
| Thereafter | 1,045 |
| Total minimum lease payments | 6,661 |
| Less amount representing interest/discounting | (1,594) |
| Present value of minimum lease payments | 5,067 |
| Less lease obligations, current portion | (732) |
| Lease obligations, net of current portion | $4,335 |
Components of Lease Cost
The components of finance and operating lease costs for thethree andnine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023* were as follows:
| Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Finance lease costs: | ||||
| Amortization | $12 | $16 | $57 | $57 |
| Interest on lease liabilities | — | 1 | — | 10 |
| Operating lease costs | 255 | 254 | 764 | 758 |
| Short-term lease costs | — | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| Variable lease costs | 88 | 70 | 217 | 192 |
| Total lease costs | $355 | $342 | $1,040 | $1,020 |
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
| Nine Months Ended September 30, | ||
|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 |
| Operating cash flows from operating leases | $(983) | $(953) |
| Operating cash flows from finance leases | $— | $(10) |
| Financing cash flows from finance leases | $(27) | $(63) |
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Note8. Notes Payable and Convertible Notes Payable
Our notes payable and convertible notes payable as of* September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023* was as follows:
| Stated | September 30, | December 31, | |
|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands, except interest rates) | Interest Rate | 2024 | 2023 |
| Notes payable | |||
| Advance Cecil, Inc. (commenced April 2019) | 8.00% | $144 | $138 |
| Maryland DHCD (commenced February 2019) | 8.00% | 724 | 694 |
| Maryland DHCD (commenced May 2022) | 6.00% | 1,083 | 1,083 |
| Avenue Venture Opportunities Fund, L.P. (commenced May 2021) | 15.10% | 10,000 | 15,000 |
| 11,951 | 16,915 | ||
| Unamortized premium (discount) and debt issuance costs | 592 | (394) | |
| Less notes payable, current portion, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs | (10,875) | (14,627) | |
| Notes payable, net of current portion | $1,668 | $1,894 | |
| Convertible notes payable | |||
| Avenue Venture Opportunities Fund, L.P. (commenced May 2021) | 15.10% | $— | $5,000 |
| Maryland DHCD (commenced December 2022) | 6.00% | 5,312 | 5,308 |
| 5,312 | 10,308 | ||
| Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs | (41) | (174) | |
| Less convertible notes payable, current portion, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs | — | (4,876) | |
| Convertible notes payable, net of current portion | $5,271 | $5,258 | |
Maryland Loans
In* February 2019,we entered into a term loan agreement (the“2019* MD Loan”) with the Department of Housing and Community Development (“DHCD”), a principal department of the State of Maryland, for $0.5 million bearing simple interest at an annual rate of 8.00%. We are subject to covenants until maturity, including limitations on our ability to retire, repurchase, or redeem our stock, options, and warrants other than per the terms of the securities; and limitations on our ability to pay dividends. We arenot in violation of any covenants. The2019 MD Loan established “Phantom Shares” based on 5,995 shares of Common Stock. The2019 MD Loan matures in full on* February 22, 2034,with the repayment amount equal to the greater of (i) principal plus accrued interest or (ii) the Phantom Shares multiplied by the closing price of our Common Stock on Nasdaq on the trading day prior to the maturity date. As of September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023*, the2019 MD Loan was recorded at principal plus accrued interest as it was greater than the value of the Phantom Shares. We recognized interest expense of $10,000 and $10,000 during thethree months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively; and $30,000 and $30,000 during thenine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively.
In* April 2019,we entered into a term loan agreement (the“2019* Cecil Loan”) with Advance Cecil Inc., a non-stock corporation formed under the laws of the State of Maryland, for $0.1 million bearing simple interest at an annual rate of 8.00%. The2019 Cecil Loan established “Phantom Shares” based on 1,199 shares of Common Stock. The2019 Cecil Loan matures in full on* April 30, 2034,with the repayment amount equal to the greater of (i) principal plus accrued interest or (ii) the Phantom Shares multiplied by the closing price of our Common Stock on Nasdaq on the trading day prior to the maturity date. As of September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023*, the2019 Cecil Loan was recorded at principal plus accrued interest as it was greater than the value of the Phantom Shares. We recognized interest expense of $2,000 and $2,000 during thethree months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively; and $6,000 and $6,000 during thenine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively.
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In* May 2022,we entered into a term loan agreement (the“2022* MD Loan”) with DHCD for up to $3.0 million bearing simple interest at an annual rate of 6.00% for the purchase of certain manufacturing equipment (the “Assets”). As of* September 30, 2024*, we had drawn $1.0 million with the remaining balance available for future equipment purchases expiring on* May 17, 2024.Thefirst* 12 payments, commencing* July 1, 2022,are deferred, followed by18* monthly installments of interest-only based on the outstanding principal, each up to$15,000 maximum; followed by monthly installments of principal and interest in the amount of $33,306, payable for the lesser of30 months or until the principal and accrued and unpaid interest is fully repaid, with a balloon payment of all remaining principal and unpaid interest due on the maturity date of* July 1, 2027.As of September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023*, the balance of accrued and unpaid interest was $50,000 and $50,000, respectively, and is recorded as part of the carrying amount of the loan. We recorded debt issuance costs of $31,000 as a debt discount. Under an agreement between DHCD and Avenue, an existing secured creditor of the Company, DHCD was granted afirst priority lien on the Assets as collateral. We recognized interest expense of $15,000 and $15,000 during thethree months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively; and $46,000 and $43,000 during thenine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively.
In* December 2022,we entered into a term loan agreement (the“2022* DHCD Loan”) with DHCD for $5.0 million bearing simple interest at an annual rate of 6.00%. Thefirst 12 payments, commencing* January 1, 2023,are deferred, followed by48* monthly installments of interest-only, with a balloon payment of all principal and unpaid interest due on the maturity date of* January 1, 2028.As of September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023*, the balance of accrued and unpaid interest was $0.3 million and $0.3 million, respectively, and is recorded as part of the carrying amount of the loan. We recorded debt issuance costs of $0.1 million as a debt discount. At any time after* December 8, 2023,DHCD may,in its sole discretion, convert up to $5.0 million of principal into Common Stock in increments of $1.0 million, at a price equal to the greater of: (i)97% of the30*-day trailing VWAP of our Common Stock; or (ii) $80.00 per share (the “DHCD Conversion Feature”). The DHCD Conversion Feature didnot meet the requirements for derivative accounting. During thethree months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, we recognized (i) total interest expense of $0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively; (ii) coupon interest expense of $0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively; and (iii) amortization of debt issuance costs of $3,000 and $1,000, respectively; and the effective interest rate was 5.99% and 5.91%, respectively. During thenine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, we recognized (i) total interest expense of $0.2 million and $0.2 million, respectively; (ii) coupon interest expense of $0.2 million and $0.2 million, respectively; and (iii) amortization of debt issuance costs of $8,000 and ($1,000), respectively; and the effective interest rate was 5.99% and 5.91%, respectively.
Avenue Loan
In* May 2021,we entered into a term loan agreement (the“2021* Avenue Loan”) with Avenue for up to $30.0 million, bearing interest at a variable rate equal to (i) the greater of (a) the prime rate or (b)3.25%, plus (ii)6.60%. As of* September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023*, the interest rate was 15.10% and 14.10%, respectively. We borrowed $15.0 million in* May 2021plus $5.0 million in September 2021 (“Tranche1”), and the remaining $10.0 million (“Tranche2”) wasnot* drawn and expired. We incurred $0.8 million of debt issuance costs of which $47,000 related to liability-classified warrants was expensed immediately and the remainder was recorded as a debt discount. Payments were interest-only for thefirst 12 months and the interest-only period was extended for (i)12 months due to our achievement of certain clinical trial milestones, plus (ii) an additional12 months (through* June 30, 2024),pursuant to an amendment in June 2023 (the “Second Amendment”), due to our receipt of at least $35.0 million from the sale and issuance of Common Stock in a public offering in June 2023 (“Equity Milestone1”). Following the interest-only period, from July 2024to September 2024,we made equal monthly principal installments of $3.3 million plus interest at the variable rate then in effect. On September 30, 2024,we entered into an amendment (the “Third Amendment”) which (i) reduced the October 2024principal installment from $3.3 million to $2.0 million, plus interest at the applicable variable rate, (ii) reduced the November 2024and December 2024principal installments from $3.3 million to $0.5 million each, plus interest at the applicable variable rate, and (iii) delayed the maturity date of the loan from December 1, 2024to April 1, 2025,withfour* consecutive monthly principal installments of approximately $1.8 million due from* January 2025to April 2025.On the maturity date of April 1, 2025,all principal and accrued interest then remaining unpaid plus a final payment of 4.25% of funded principal, equal to $0.9 million (the “Final Payment”), shall be due and payable. The Final Payment was previously recorded as a debt premium at the inception of the2021* Avenue Loan.
The Third Amendment provided for a contingent interest-only period from* November 1, 2024through December 31, 2024 (the “Second Interest-only Period”) if we had received gross proceeds of at least $10.0 million from sales of our equity securities by October 31, 2024 (the “OctoberEquity Milestone”), which we didnot* achieve. The Third Amendment also provides for a contingent extension of the maturity date and repayment period if, on or before* December 31, 2024,we receive reasonably satisfactory evidence that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) doesnot* object to our submission of a new drug application (“NDA”) seeking accelerated approval for CNM-Au8 as a potential treatment for ALS and we have submitted such NDA for review (the “ALS NDA Milestone”). If we achieve the ALS NDA Milestone, the* January 2025and February 2025principal installments shall be reduced to $0.5 million each, followed byfour* equal consecutive monthly principal installments in an amount sufficient to fully amortize the loan, plus interest at the applicable variable rate, with a maturity date of* June 1, 2025.*
16
Avenue had the right to convert up to $5.0 million of principal into Common Stock (the “Avenue Conversion Feature”), which expired on* May 21, 2024and wasnot* exercised. The Final Payment and Avenue Conversion Feature didnot meet the requirements for derivative accounting. As of* December 31, 2023*, unamortized debt discount and issuance costs related to the convertible note were $0.1 million. For the convertible note during thethree months ended* September 30, 2023*, we recognized (i) total interest expense of $0.3 million, (ii) coupon interest expense of $0.2 million, and (iii) amortization of debt discount and issuance costs of $0.1 million; and the effective interest rate was 22.79%. During thenine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, we recognized (i) total interest expense of $0.4 million and $0.8 million, respectively; (ii) coupon interest expense of $0.3 million and $0.6 million, respectively; and (iii) amortization of debt discount and issuance costs of $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively; and the effective interest rate was 17.52% and 22.79%, respectively.
We are subject to covenants until maturity, including limitations on our ability to retire, repurchase, or redeem our stock, options, and warrants other than per the terms of the securities; limitations on our ability to pay dividends; and we are required to maintain unrestricted cash and cash equivalents of at least $5.0 million. We arenot in violation of any covenants. Avenue has the ability to immediately accelerate all obligations under the2021 Avenue Loan upon the occurrence of certain events of default or material adverse effects. The2021 Avenue Loan is collateralized by substantially all our assets other than intellectual property, including our capital stock and the capital stock of our subsidiaries, in which Avenue is granted a continuing security interest. We recognized interest expense of $0.8 million and $1.1 million during thethree months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively, and $3.1 million and $3.0 million during thenine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively.
At the inception of the2021 Avenue Loan, we issued a warrant to Avenue to purchase Common Stock (the*“2021* Avenue Warrant”). A portion of the net proceeds at issuance of the2021 Avenue Loan were allocated to the2021 Avenue Warrant in an amount equal to its fair value of $1.5 million and were recorded as a debt discount. Pursuant to the Second Amendment, the2021 Avenue Warrant was cancelled and a new warrant to purchase 150,000 shares of Common Stock was issued (the*“2023* Avenue Warrant”). Avenue* mayexercise the2023* Avenue Warrant for cash or on a net or “cashless” basis. In the event of a change of control of the Company, the2023 Avenue Warrant shall be automatically exchanged for the number of shares of Common Stock which remain exercisable thereunder immediately prior to the change of control transaction, forno payment or consideration from Avenue for such shares, and the2023 Avenue Warrant shall be terminated. At issuance, the2023 Avenue Warrant was recorded as a liability and debt discount in amount equal to its fair value of $0.7 million. The Second Amendment, including the revised terms, cancellation of the2021 Avenue Warrant, and issuance of the2023 Avenue Warrant was accounted for as a debt modification. Additionally, pursuant to the Third Amendment, the exercise price of the2023 Avenue Warrant was reduced from $16.00 per share to $4.6014 per share, with the resulting change in fair value of $0.1 million recorded as a debt discount. The Third Amendment was accounted for as a debt modification that also met the requirements as a troubled debt restructuring under ASC470, Debt (“ASC470”), withno restructuring gain required to be recognized as the future cash payments under the2021 Avenue Loan, as amended, were greater than its carrying amount.
Debt Maturities
Future debt payments, net of unamortized discounts and debt issuance costs, and without giving effect to any potential future exercise of conversion features, are as follows:
| (in thousands) | 2019 MD Loan | 2019 Cecil Loan | 2021 Avenue Loan | 2022 MD Loan | 2022 DHCD Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 (remainder) | $— | $— | $3,000 | $— | $— |
| 2025 | — | — | 7,000 | 347 | — |
| 2026 | — | — | — | 369 | — |
| 2027 | — | — | — | 317 | — |
| 2028 | — | — | — | — | 5,000 |
| 2029 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Thereafter | 500 | 100 | — | — | — |
| Total debt principal payments | 500 | 100 | 10,000 | 1,033 | 5,000 |
| Accrued and unpaid interest | 224 | 44 | — | 50 | 312 |
| Unamortized premium (discount) and debt issuance costs | — | — | 608 | (16) | (41) |
| Future debt payments, net | $724 | $144 | $10,608 | $1,067 | $5,271 |
Note9. Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments
We enter into agreements in the normal course of business with CROs for clinical trials and with vendors for preclinical studies and other services and products for operating purposes, which are cancelable at any time by us, subject to payment of our remaining obligations under binding purchase orders and, in certain cases, nominal early termination fees. These commitments arenot deemed significant.
As of* September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023*, we had commitments under various agreements for capital expenditures totaling $0.2 million and $0.4 million, respectively, related to the construction of our manufacturing facilities.
Contingencies
From time to time, we* mayhave certain contingent legal liabilities that arise in the ordinary course of business activities. We accrue a liability for such matters when it is probable that future expenditures will be made, and such expenditures can be reasonably estimated. We arenot* aware of any current material pending legal matters or claims.
We received the following grants from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (“NMSS”): (i) $0.3 million in* September 2019 (the“2019* Grant”) to fund biomarker research related our VISIONARY-MS Phase2 clinical trial, and (ii) $0.7 million in* May 2023 (the“2023* Grant”) to fund Cohort2 of our REPAIR-MS clinical trial. Pursuant to the grant agreements, if we make future commercial sales of CNM-Au8 for the treatment of MS, we will repay: (i)50% of the grants upon thefirst commercial product sale, (ii) an additional 50% of the grants upon cumulative sales of $10.0 million, (iii) an additional 150% of the grants upon cumulative sales of $50.0 million, and (iv) an additional 200% of the grants upon cumulative sales of $100.0 million, with the maximum repayment equal to 450% of the grants if all milestones are achieved. If NMSS hasnot yet received repayments equal in the aggregate to 300% of the2019 Grant or 150% of the2023 Grant, then upon the closing of any of the following events we will repay 300% of the2019 Grant, equal to $1.0 million, or 150% of the2023 Grant, equal to $1.0 million, less any amounts previously paid by us: (i) sale of all or substantially all of our assets and business, (ii) a public offering that occurs more thantwelve months after completion of the applicable research, (iii) sale of any portion of our assets and business including CNM-Au8 for the treatment of MS, (iv) exclusive licensing of our intellectual property claiming CNM-Au8 for the treatment of MS, (v) a collaboration with athird-party to develop CNM-Au8 for the treatment of MS (for the2019 Grant only), or (vi) licensing of our commercialization rights to CNM-Au8 for the treatment of MS (for the2023 Grant only). As of* September 30, 2024*, we havenot met any of the above milestones and the applicable research hasnot been completed. We accounted for these contingencies in accordance with ASC450, Contingencies. Management has assessed the likelihood of each contingent event as less than probable and thereforeno contingent liability is recognized. Management’s estimate of the possible range of loss is between the minimum and maximum repayment amounts, equal to 50% and 450% of each grant, or approximately $0.2 million and $1.5 million for the2019 Grant, respectively; and approximately $0.3 million and $3.0 million for the2023 Grant, respectively. However, it is at least reasonably possible that Management’s estimate of the likelihood of each contingent event and the possible range of loss will change in the near term.
Note10. Income Taxes
The components of loss before income taxes for thethree andnine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023* were as follows:
| Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 |
| United States | $(7,940) | $(2,206) | $(25,720) | $(38,608) |
| Foreign | (46) | (212) | (131) | (723) |
| Net loss before income taxes | $(7,986) | $(2,418) | $(25,851) | $(39,331) |
We are subject to taxation in the U.S., Australia, Netherlands, and various state jurisdictions. Our tax returns from2017 to present are subject to examination by the U.S. and state authorities due to the carry forward of unutilized net operating losses and research and development credits. There are currentlyno pending examinations. We compute our quarterly income tax provision by using a forecasted annual effective tax rate and adjust for any discrete items arising during the quarter. The primary difference between the effective tax rate and the federal statutory tax rate relates to the full valuation allowance on our net operating losses and other deferred tax assets.
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Note11. Benefit Plans
401(k) Plan
Our401(k) plan is a deferred salary arrangement under Section401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. We match 100% of a participating employee’s deferral contributions up to 3% of annual compensation, limited to $4,500 of matching contributions. Our contributions to the401(k) plan totaled $34,000 and $31,000 during thethree months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively; and $0.1 million and $0.2 million during thenine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023*, respectively.
Stock Compensation Plans
The Clene Nanomedicine, Inc.2014 Stock Plan (the*“2014* Plan”) was adopted in* July 2014.Effective as of the closing of the Reverse Recapitalization,no additional awards maybe granted under the2014* Plan. As of* September 30, 2024*,164,684 stock options remained outstanding under the2014 Plan.
The Clene Inc.2020 Amended Stock Plan (the*“2020* Plan”) was adopted in* December 2020and amended in May 2023and May 2024.Currently,2,420,000 shares of Common Stock are reserved for issuance thereunder. As of September 30, 2024*, a total of 1,785,141 stock options and other stock awards had been granted under the2020 Plan, and 634,859 shares remained available for future grant.
Stock-Based Compensation Expense
Stock-based compensation expense recorded in research and development expense and general and administrative expense during thethree andnine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023* was as follows:
| Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 |
| General and administrative | $1,126 | $1,311 | $3,310 | $3,888 |
| Research and development | 1,062 | 1,085 | 2,842 | 3,182 |
| Total stock-based compensation expense | $2,188 | $2,396 | $6,152 | $7,070 |
Stock-based compensation expense by award type during thethree andnine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023* was as follows:
| Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Stock options | $2,194 | $2,384 | $6,147 | $7,044 |
| Stock awards | (6) | 12 | 5 | 26 |
| Total stock-based compensation expense | $2,188 | $2,396 | $6,152 | $7,070 |
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Stock Options
Outstanding stock options and related activity during thenine months ended* September 30, 2024* was as follows:
| (in thousands, except share, per share, and term data) | Number of Options | Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share | Weighted Average Remaining Term (Years) | Intrinsic Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outstanding – December 31, 2023 | 1,092,343 | $45.20 | 7.28 | $302 |
| Granted | 918,849 | 7.04 | 9.72 | — |
| Exercised | (41,090) | 3.00 | — | 65 |
| Forfeited | (12,288) | 88.26 | — | — |
| Expired | (61,770) | — | — | — |
| Outstanding – September 30, 2024 | 1,896,044 | $28.76 | 8.43 | $— |
| Vested and exercisable – September 30, 2024 | 728,239 | $51.48 | 7.05 | $— |
| Vested, exercisable or expected to vest – September 30, 2024 | 1,896,044 | $28.76 | 8.43 | $— |
As of* September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023*, we had approximately $10.2 million and $13.7 million, respectively, of unrecognized stock-based compensation costs related to non-vested stock options that is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.81 years and 2.10 years, respectively. Our unrecognized stock-based compensation costs excludes $2.8 million of stock options that vest based on performance conditions that we assessed as less than probable as of* September 30, 2024*. As of* December 31, 2023*, we hadnot granted stock options with performance conditions.
The weighted-average grant-date fair value of stock options granted during thenine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023* was $6.09 and $15.00, respectively. The assumptions used to calculate the fair value of stock options granted during thenine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023* were as follows:
| Nine Months Ended September 30, | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | |
| Expected stock price volatility | 97.78% –111.49% | 96.22% –103.24% |
| Risk-free interest rate | 3.62% –4.58% | 3.26% –4.41% |
| Expected dividend yield | 0.00% | 0.00% |
| Expected term of options (in years) | 5.00 –10.00 | 5.00 –6.43 |
Stock Awards
Stock awards include rights to restricted stock awards with market-based vesting conditions and restricted stock units with service-based vesting conditions. Outstanding stock awards and related activity during thenine months ended* September 30, 2024* was as follows:
| Number of Stock Awards | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | |
|---|---|---|
| Unvested balance – December 31, 2023 | 38,943 | $194.41 |
| Converted to shares of Common Stock upon vesting | (543) | 23.00 |
| Forfeited | (959) | 196.84 |
| Unvested balance – September 30, 2024 | 37,441 | $196.84 |
As of* September 30, 2024*, we hadno unrecognized stock-based compensation cost related to non-vested stock awards. As of* December 31, 2023*, we had approximately $11,000 of unrecognized stock-based compensation costs related to non-vested stock awards expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.23 years.
Note12. Fair Value
Cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities are carried at fair value. Financial instruments, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, and accrued expenses are carried at cost, which approximates fair value given their short-term nature. Our remaining fair value measures are discussed below.
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Financial Instruments with Fair Value Measurements on a Recurring Basis
The fair value hierarchy for financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of* September 30, 2024* is as follows, excluding the Contingent Earn-outs due to their nominal fair value:
| (in thousands) | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash equivalents: | ||||
| Money market funds | $3,897 | $— | $— | $3,897 |
| Common stock warrant liabilities | — | — | 592 | 592 |
The fair value hierarchy for financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of* December 31, 2023* is as follows:
| (in thousands) | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash equivalents: | ||||
| U.S. Treasury securities | $— | $19,884 | $— | $19,884 |
| Money market funds | 5,113 | — | — | 5,113 |
| Marketable securities: | ||||
| U.S. Treasury securities | — | 6,179 | — | 6,179 |
| Common stock warrant liabilities | — | — | 1,481 | 1,481 |
| Clene Nanomedicine contingent earn-out liability | — | — | 75 | 75 |
| Initial Stockholders contingent earn-out liability | — | — | 10 | 10 |
There wereno transfers between Level1, Level2, or Level3 during any of the periods above.
Changes in the fair value of our Level3 financial instruments during thenine months ended* September 30, 2024* were as follows:
| (in thousands) | Common Stock Warrant Liabilities | Clene Nanomedicine Contingent Earn-out | Initial Stockholders Contingent Earn-out |
|---|---|---|---|
| Balance – December 31, 2023 | $1,481 | $75 | $10 |
| Change in fair value | (956) | (75) | (10) |
| Change in 2023 Avenue Warrant fair value pursuant to the Third Amendment recorded as a debt discount | 67 | — | — |
| Balance – September 30, 2024 | $592 | $— | $— |
Changes in the fair value of our Level3 financial instruments during thenine months ended* September 30, 2023* were as follows:
| (in thousands) | Common Stock Warrant Liabilities | Clene Nanomedicine Contingent Earn-out | Initial Stockholders Contingent Earn-out |
|---|---|---|---|
| Balance – December 31, 2022 | $— | $2,264 | $291 |
| Initial fair value of instruments | 7,818 | — | — |
| Change in fair value | (5,958) | (2,114) | (272) |
| Balance – September 30, 2023 | $1,860 | $150 | $19 |
Valuation of Notes Payable and Convertible Notes Payable
The2019 MD Loan and the2019 Cecil Loan are carried at the greater of principal plus accrued interest or the value of the Phantom Shares (see Note8), which approximates fair value. The2021 Avenue Loan, the2022 MD Loan, and the2022 DHCD Loan are carried at amortized cost, which approximates fair value due to our credit risk and market interest rates. Our notes payable and convertible notes payable are categorized within Level3 of the fair value hierarchy.
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Valuation of the Common Stock Warrant Liabilities
The2023 Avenue Warrant, as amended, is classified as a liability and carried at fair value. We estimate the fair value using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model with probability weights for the occurrence of the following events: (i) settlement of the instrument upon a change of control transaction, (ii) dissolution of the Company, or (iii) another outcome outside of (i)-(ii). These estimates require significant judgment. The carrying amount* mayfluctuate significantly and the actual settlement amount may*be materially different from the estimated fair value. The unobservable inputs to the Black-Scholes option pricing model were as follows:
| September 30, | December 31, | |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | |
| Expected stock price volatility | 108.40% –114.80% | 105.00% –110.00% |
| Risk-free interest rate | 3.60% –4.50% | 3.88% –5.03% |
| Expected dividend yield | 0.00% | 0.00% |
| Expected term (in years) | 0.41 –3.75 | 0.75 –4.50 |
| Probability of change of control | 10.00% | 25.00% |
| Probability of dissolution | 55.00% | 50.00% |
| Probability of other outcome | 35.00% | 25.00% |
The Tranche A Warrants are classified as a liability and carried at fair value (the Tranche B Warrants qualified for equity classification at issuance). We estimate the fair value using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model with probability weights for the occurrence of the following events: (i) acceptance of an NDA by the FDA for CNM-Au8, (ii) settlement upon a fundamental transaction, (iii) dissolution of the Company, and (iv) another outcome outside of (i)-(iii). These estimates require significant judgment. The carrying amount* mayfluctuate significantly and the actual settlement amount may*be materially different from the estimated fair value. The unobservable inputs to the Black-Scholes option pricing model were as follows:
| September 30, | December 31, | |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | |
| Expected stock price volatility | 97.70% –109.50% | 100.00% –110.00% |
| Risk-free interest rate | 3.80% –4.30% | 4.13% –4.74% |
| Expected dividend yield | 0.00% | 0.00% |
| Expected term (in years) | 0.58 –1.71 | 1.08 –2.46 |
| Probability of NDA acceptance | 20.00% | 20.00% |
| Probability of fundamental transaction | 10.00% | 25.00% |
| Probability of dissolution | 55.00% | 50.00% |
| Probability of other outcome | 15.00% | 5.00% |
Valuation of the Contingent Earn-Out Liabilities
The Contingent Earn-outs are carried at fair value, which is nominal, as determined using a Monte Carlo valuation model in order to simulate the future path of our stock price over the earn-out periods. The carrying amount of the liabilities* mayfluctuate significantly and actual amounts paid may*be materially different from the liabilities’ estimated value. The unobservable inputs to the Monte Carlo valuation model were as follows:
| September 30, | December 31, | |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | |
| Expected stock price volatility | 104.00% | 115.00% |
| Risk-free interest rate | 3.90% | 4.20% |
| Expected dividend yield | 0.00% | 0.00% |
| Expected term (in years) | 1.25 | 2.00 |
Note13. Capital Stock
As of* September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023*, our amended and restated certificate of incorporation authorized us to issue 600,000,000 and 300,000,000 shares of Common Stock par value $0.0001 per share, respectively; and 1,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, par value $0.0001 per share. As of* September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023*, we had 6,857,170 and 6,421,084 shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding, respectively, andno shares of Preferred Stock issued or outstanding.
Our common stockholders are entitled toone vote per share and to notice of any stockholders’ meeting. Voting, dividend, and liquidation rights of the holders of Common Stock are subject to the prior rights of holders of all classes of stock and are qualified by the rights, powers, preferences, and privileges of the holders of Preferred Stock.No distributions shall be made with respect to Common Stock until all declared dividends to Preferred Stock have been paid or set aside for payment. Common Stock isnot redeemable at the option of the holder.
Common Stock Warrants
We have issued the following outstanding warrants to purchase shares of Common Stock:
| Number of Shares Issuable | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| September 30, · December 31, | |||||||
| Date Exercisable · Exercise Price · Expiration · Classification · 2024 · 2023 | |||||||
| December 2020 | $230.00 | December 2025 | (1) | Equity | 120,375 | 120,375 | |
| December 2020 | $230.00 | December 2025 | (2) | Equity | 1,229 | 1,229 | |
| June 2023 | $4.6014 | (3) | June 2028 | (4) | Liability | 150,000 | 150,000 |
| June 2023 | $22.00 | June 2026 | (5) | Liability | 2,500,000 | 2,500,000 | |
| June 2023 | $30.00 | June 2030 | (6) | Equity | 2,500,000 | 2,500,000 | |
| Total shares | 5,271,604 | 5,271,604 | |||||
| (1) | Represents 120,375 shares of Common Stock underlying warrants to purchase one-fortieth (1/40) of one share of Common Stock, issued during Tottenham’s initial public offering. We may redeem the outstanding warrants at $0.01 per warrant if the last sales price of our Common Stock equals or exceeds $330.00 per share for any 20 trading days within a 30-trading day period. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, no warrants had been exercised. |
| (2) | Represents 1,229 shares of Common Stock underlying warrants to purchase one-fortieth (1/40) of one share of Common Stock, issued to the financial advisor and lead underwriter of Tottenham’s initial public offering upon their exercise of a unit purchase option in July 2021. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, no warrants had been exercised. |
| (3) | As of December 31, 2023, the exercise price was $16.00 per share. As of September 30, 2024, the exercise price was reduced to $4.6014 per share pursuant to the Third Amendment. |
| (4) | Represents 150,000 shares of Common Stock underlying the 2023 Avenue Warrant, issued pursuant to the Second Amendment (see Note 8). As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the warrant had not been exercised. |
| (5) | Represents 2,500,000 shares of Common Stock underlying the Tranche A Warrants to purchase one share of Common Stock, issued in our June 2023 public equity offering. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, no warrants had been exercised. |
| (6) | Represents 2,500,000 shares of Common Stock underlying the Tranche B Warrants to purchase one share of Common Stock, issued in our June 2023 public equity offering. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, no warrants had been exercised. |
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Public Offerings
In* June 2023,we sold 2,500,000 units at a sale price of $16.00 per unit pursuant to an underwriting agreement with Canaccord Genuity LLC (“Canaccord”). Each unit consisted of (i)one share of Common Stock, (ii)one warrant to purchaseone share of Common Stock at an exercise price of $22.00 per share (the “Tranche A Warrants”), and (iii)one warrant to purchaseone share of Common Stock at an exercise price of $30.00 per share (the “Tranche B Warrants”). The aggregate gross proceeds were $40.0 million, excluding the proceeds, if any, from the exercise of the Tranche A and Tranche B Warrants, and we paid underwriting discounts and commissions of $2.4 million and offering expenses of $0.2 million. The Tranche A Warrants were exercisable immediately and expire on the earlier of (i)sixty (60) days following the date of our public announcement that an NDA for CNM-Au8 has been accepted by the FDA, or (ii) June 16, 2026.The Tranche B Warrants were exercisable immediately and expire on the earlier of (i)sixty (60) days following the date of our public announcement that an NDA for CNM-Au8 has been approved by the FDA, or (ii) June 16, 2030.If we enter into or become party to a fundamental transaction (which generally includes a merger or acquisition; the sale, lease, license, or transfer of all or substantially all of our assets; tender or exchange offers; or a reclassification, reorganization, or recapitalization of our Common Stock), then (i) we or our successor shall purchase all outstanding Tranche A Warrants by paying the holders an amount equal to the Black-Scholes value of the unexercised Tranche A Warrants, and (ii) upon any subsequent exercise of a Tranche B Warrant, the holder shall be entitled to receive, at the option of the holder, the number of shares of common stock of the successor or of the Company, if it is the surviving corporation, and any additional consideration receivable as a result of such fundamental transaction by a holder of the number of shares of Common Stock for which the warrant is exercisable immediately prior to such fundamental transaction. The offering was made pursuant to our registration statement on Form S-3 (file number333*-264299), declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on* April 26, 2022,a related registration statement pursuant to Rule462*(b) (file number333-272692), filed with the SEC and effective on* June 16, 2023,and a related prospectus supplement. The total fair value of the Common Stock, Tranche A Warrants, and Tranche B Warrants sold in the offering exceeded the offering proceeds by $14.8 million, therefore pursuant to ASC815,* we recognized this amount as a loss on the initial issuance of equity in the condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss during the year ended* December 31, 2023.*The underwriting discounts and commissions and offering expenses were allocated to the Common Stock, Tranche A Warrants, and Tranche B Warrants sold in the offering based on their relative fair values, with the amount allocated to the liability-classified Tranche A Warrants recorded as an expense in the condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss, and the amounts allocated to the Common Stock and Tranche B Warrants as a reduction to their initial carrying values.
Common Stock Sales Agreement
In* April 2022,we entered into the ATM Agreement, which we amended in December 2022.Canaccord acts as placement agent and we mayoffer and sell shares of Common Stock from time to time through Canaccord. The issuance and sale of Common Stock by us under the ATM Agreement is made pursuant to our registration statement on Form S-3 (file number333*-264299), which was declared effective by the SEC on* April 26, 2022.On September 30, 2024,we notified Canaccord that we were suspending the prospectus supplement related to the ATM Agreement. We willnot* make any sales of our common stock pursuant to the ATM Agreement, unless and until a new prospectus supplement is filed. Other than the termination of the prospectus supplement related to the ATM Agreement, the ATM Agreement remains in full force and effect.
Pursuant to the ATM Agreement, Canaccord isnot required to sell any specific number or dollar amount of Common Stock but will act as our placement agent to sell, on our behalf, all of the Common Stock requested by us to be sold, consistent with Canaccord’s normal trading and sales practices, on terms mutually agreed between Canaccord and us. Canaccord is entitled to compensation at a fixed commission rate of 3.0% of the gross proceeds from each sale of Common Stock, if any. During thethree andnine months ended* September 30, 2024*, we sold 394,453 and 394,453 shares of Common Stock, respectively, generated gross proceeds of $2.1 million and $2.1 million, respectively, and paid commissions of $0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively. During thethree andnine months ended* September 30, 2023*, we sold 0 and 144,755 shares of Common Stock, respectively; generated gross proceeds of $0 and $4.5 million, respectively; and paid commissions of $0 and $0.1 million, respectively.
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Common Stock Purchase Agreement
On* March 3, 2023,we entered into a purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with Lincoln Park Capital Fund, LLC (“Lincoln Park”), pursuant to which Lincoln Park committed to purchase up to $25.0 million of shares of Common Stock at our sole discretion, from time to time over a 36-month period commencing on March 7, 2023.The issuance and sale of Common Stock under the Purchase Agreement was made pursuant to our registration statement on Form S-3 (file number333*-264299), which was declared effective by the SEC on* April 26, 2022.On June 16, 2023,we suspended and terminated the prospectus supplement related to the offering with respect to the unsold shares of Common Stock issuable pursuant to the Purchase Agreement. We willnot* make any further sales of our securities pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, unless and until a new prospectus supplement is filed. Other than the termination of the prospectus supplement related to the offering with respect to future sales by us, the Purchase Agreement remains in full force and effect.
Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, we* maydirect Lincoln Park to purchase up to 3,750 shares of Common Stock (a “Regular Purchase”), which maybe increased up to (i)5,000 shares if the closing price of our Common Stock isnot* below $20.00, (ii)7,500 shares if the closing price of our Common Stock isnot below $40.00, and (iii)10,000 shares if the closing price of our Common Stock isnot below $80.00. The purchase price for a Regular Purchase is based on the market price of our Common Stock at the time of sale. We* maysell shares in excess of a Regular Purchase (an “Accelerated Purchase”) on any day on which we have directed Lincoln Park to purchase the maximum amount allowed for such Regular Purchase, up to the lesser of (i)300% of the number of shares purchased pursuant to such prior business day Regular Purchase or (ii)30% of the aggregate shares of our Common Stock traded on Nasdaq on the trading day immediately following the purchase date for such Regular Purchase (subject to certain volume and market price limitations). Additionally, we may*sell shares in excess of an Accelerated Purchase (an “Additional Accelerated Purchase”) on any day on which we have directed Lincoln Park to purchase the maximum amount allowed for such Accelerated Purchase, up to the lesser of (i)300% of the number of shares purchased pursuant to such prior business day Regular Purchase or (ii)30% of the aggregate shares of our Common Stock traded on Nasdaq during a certain period on the date of the Additional Accelerated Purchase (subject to certain volume and market price limitations). The purchase price for Accelerated Purchases and Additional Accelerated Purchases is equal to 97% of the lesser of (i) the VWAP of our Common Stock on Nasdaq during certain periods on the date of the Accelerated Purchase or Additional Accelerated Purchase or (ii) the closing price of our Common Stock on the date of the Accelerate Purchase or Additional Accelerated Purchase.
On the date of the Purchase Agreement, we issued 16,633 shares of Common Stock (the “Initial Commitment Shares”) to Lincoln Park as an initial fee for its commitment under the Purchase Agreement. We recorded the fair value of the Initial Commitment Shares on the date of issuance in other income (expense), net. We* mayfurther issue up to 8,317 additional shares of Common Stock (the “Additional Commitment Shares,” and, together with the Initial Commitment Shares, the “Commitment Shares”) on a pro rata basis upon each purchase by Lincoln Park under the Purchase Agreement. Under applicable Nasdaq listing rules, the total number of shares of Common Stock that we maysell to Lincoln Park is limited to 765,506 shares (including the Commitment Shares), representing 19.99% of the outstanding shares of our Common Stock immediately prior to the execution of the Purchase Agreement, unless we (i)first obtain stockholder approval in accordance with applicable Nasdaq listing rules or (ii) the average price paid by Lincoln Park for all shares of Common Stock issued by us under the Purchase Agreement is equal to or greater than $24.8080. The Purchase Agreement prohibits us from directing Lincoln Park to purchase any shares of Common Stock that would result in Lincoln Park having beneficial ownership of greater than 4.99% of our outstanding Common Stock, which Lincoln Park may,in its sole discretion, increase up to 9.99% of our outstanding Common Stock by delivering written notice thereof to us, which shallnot* be effective until the61st day after such written notice is delivered to us. We* mayterminate the Purchase Agreement at any time, for any reason and without any payment or liability to us, by giving Lincoln Park a termination notice with effectone* business date after the notice has been received by Lincoln Park.
We evaluated the Purchase Agreement under ASC815-40 Derivatives and Hedging—Contracts on an Entity's Own Equity as it represents the right to require Lincoln Park to purchase shares of Common Stock in the future, similar to a put option. We concluded it represents a freestanding derivative instrument that doesnot qualify for equity classification and therefore requires fair value accounting. We analyzed the terms of the contract and concluded the derivative instrument hasno value as of* September 30, 2024* and* December 31, 2023*. During thenine months ended* September 30, 2023*, we sold 20,000 shares of Common Stock under the Purchase Agreement, issued 145 Additional Commitment Shares, and generated proceeds of $0.4 million. We didnot effect any sales during any of the other periods presented herein.
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Note14. Net Loss Per Share
The computation of basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to common stockholders for thethree andnine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023* was as follows:
| Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands, except share and per share data) | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Numerator: | ||||
| Net loss attributable to common stockholders | $(7,986) | $(2,418) | $(25,851) | $(39,331) |
| Denominator: | ||||
| Weighted average common shares outstanding | 6,557,839 | 6,420,274 | 6,467,771 | 4,851,348 |
| Net loss per share attributable to common stockholders – basic and diluted | $(1.22) | $(0.38) | $(4.00) | $(8.11) |
The following shares of potentially dilutive securities were excluded from the computation of diluted net loss per share attributable to common stockholders for thethree andnine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023* because they were antidilutive, out-of-the-money, or the issuance of such shares is contingent upon certain conditions which werenot satisfied by the end of the period:
| Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | |
| Convertible notes payable (see Note 8) | 62,500 | 86,635 | 62,500 | 86,635 |
| Common stock warrants (see Note 13) | 5,271,604 | 5,271,604 | 5,271,604 | 5,271,604 |
| Options to purchase common stock (see Note 11) | 1,896,044 | 1,074,318 | 1,896,044 | 1,074,318 |
| Unvested restricted stock awards (see Note 11) | 37,441 | 39,486 | 37,441 | 39,486 |
| Contingent earn-out shares (see Note 2) | 329,628 | 329,628 | 329,628 | 329,628 |
| Total shares excluded from diluted net loss per share | 7,597,217 | 6,801,671 | 7,597,217 | 6,801,671 |
Note15. Related Party Transactions
License and Supply Agreements
In* August 2018,we entered into a license agreement (the “License Agreement”) and exclusive supply agreement (the “Supply Agreement”) in conjunction with4Life’s* investment in the Series C preferred stock and warrants of our predecessor. On* April 25, 2024,we entered into an amendment to the License Agreement and Supply Agreement (the “Amended4Life* Agreements”). The Amended4Life Agreements contain the following terms:
| ● | Supply Agreement. We granted 4Life, or its affiliates and mutually-agreed upon manufacturing vendors (the “Buyer Purchasing Parties”) an exclusive right to purchase certain of our dietary supplement and non-pharmaceutical products (the “Licensed Products”), and we shall exclusively sell the Licensed Products to the Buyer Purchasing Parties. The purchase price of Licensed Products shall be equal to our cost plus 20%. 4Life must sell certain amounts of Licensed Products for the calendar years beginning in 2024 and extending through 2033 (the “Minimum Sales Commitment”), with Minimum Sales Commitments for years subsequent to 2033, if applicable, to be negotiated between the Company and 4Life. The Company may permanently convert 4Life’s exclusive rights to purchase Licensed Products to non-exclusive rights if: (i) 4Life fails to achieve the Minimum Sales Commitment for any two consecutive years, and (ii) 4Life fails to pay additional royalty fees to maintain exclusivity (as set forth under “License Agreement” below) (the “Exclusivity Provision”). |
| ● | License Agreement. We granted 4Life an exclusive, royalty bearing license to use, sell, and commercialize the Licensed Products. On a quarterly basis, 4Life shall pay us a royalty rate of 3% of incremental sales of Licensed Products, which is equal to the lesser of (a) the increase in net sales for the quarter over a base period quarter as determined in the License Agreement, or (b) net sales. If 4Life fails to meet the Exclusivity Provision, 4Life may continue to maintain exclusivity by paying us the difference between (a) the royalty fee that would otherwise have been earned by us if 4Life had met the Minimum Sales Commitment and (b) actual royalties paid to us. However, notwithstanding any other provisions of the License Agreement, on or after January 1, 2027, we shall be permitted to sell Licensed Products through third party retail outlets or via our own websites. The term of the License Agreement will continue until December 31, 2033, unless earlier terminated pursuant to the License Agreement or Supply Agreement. The Amended 4Life Agreements will be renewable for additional five-year terms upon mutual agreement of the parties. |
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We currently provide an aqueous zinc-silver ion dietary (mineral) supplement to4Life, which is sold by4Life under the tradename Zinc Factor™; and an aqueous gold dietary (mineral) supplement of very low-concentration gold nanoparticles, which is sold by4Life under the tradename Gold Factor™. Total revenue under the License and Supply Agreements during thethree andnine months ended* September 30, 2024and2023* was as follows:
| Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Product revenue from related parties | $64 | $64 | $171 | $320 |
| Royalty revenue from related parties | 22 | 43 | 78 | 129 |
| Total revenue from related parties | $86 | $107 | $249 | $449 |
Note16. Subsequent Events
On* October 1, 2024,we closed a registered direct offering (the “Offering”) pursuant to a placement agency agreement with Canaccord, pursuant to which Canaccord acted as our exclusive placement agent in connection with the offer and sale of 725,000 shares of Common Stock and pre-funded warrants to purchase up to 17,626 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.001 per share. The aggregate gross proceeds from the Offering were approximately $3.5 million, before deducting placement agent fees and expenses and other expenses payable by us. We paid Canaccord a placement agent fee of 6.00% of the aggregate gross proceeds of the Offering. The Offering was made pursuant to our registration statement on Form S-3 (file number333*-264299), which was declared effective on* April 26, 2022,*and our prospectus supplement relating to the Offering.
Additionally, in separate, concurrent Private Placements, we also sold 379,930 shares of Common Stock, pre-funded warrants to purchase up to 424,358 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.001 per share, and warrants to purchase up to 1,546,914 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $4.82 per share. The aggregate gross proceeds from the Private Placements were approximately $3.8 million, of which $1.3 million was contributed by certain of our directors, executive officers and their affiliated entities. The Private Placements closed on* October 1, 2024and as of September 30, 2024,*we had received cash of $3.8 million which we recorded as share subscriptions payable on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. We are currently evaluating the accounting for the proceeds from the Offering and Private Placements and the classification of the associated equity securities.
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The text of this filing, as the company filed it with the SEC, without its images or exhibits. This is not investment advice.