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ChromaDex Corp

For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Mar 4, 2025.

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About this filing

A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.

FY2024 · Filed Mar 4, 2025

NAGE$2.07-1.7%Stored close · as of Nov 6, 2026

What changed in Risk Factors?

Read the current filing

Previous report: 10-K

Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-03-06.

0001628280-24-009380

ITEM 1A. Risk Factors

Current report: 10-K

Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-03-04.

0001628280-25-009774

ITEM 1A. Risk Factors

The baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.

Compared 230 previous paragraphs and 251 current paragraphs.

184 unchanged; 38 reworded; 29 added; 5 removed; 3 previous and 0 current paragraphs rearranged.

Tables are not compared: 0 previous and 0 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.

A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.

Added paragraphs (29)

Current report

•our ability to develop new sales and distribution channels for our new products;

Current report

•our ability to successfully develop relationships with clinics and other third-party providers of our pharmaceutical-grade products;

Current report

Additionally, some competitors may engage in misleading marketing practices, including mislabeling their products by overstating ingredient levels or making claims that their products provide benefits similar to ours without scientific support. These practices may mislead consumers into purchasing inferior or ineffective alternatives, thereby eroding our market share and damaging the credibility of the product category as a whole. If such competitors gain traction in the marketplace, our ability to differentiate our scientifically validated products may be diminished, negatively impacting our sales and overall business.

Current report

•the impact of tariffs or changes in trade policies, which could increase our costs and affect pricing or demand for our products;

Current report

•our reliance on third-party partners involved in the development and supply of new or existing products;

Current report

•our ability to effectively incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) solutions into our operations, services, and systems;

Current report

We may not be able to monetize our products for use in pharmaceuticals through partnerships, licensing, or other arrangements, and we may not receive regulatory approval to commercialize a pharmaceutical product.

Current report

As part of our business strategy, we will seek to develop partnerships or licensing arrangements to monetize our proprietary molecules for pharmaceutical applications. However, there is no guarantee that we will be able to identify suitable partners, negotiate favorable terms, or successfully execute such partnerships. Even if we enter into agreements with third parties, our ability to generate revenue from these arrangements will depend on various factors, including our partners' willingness and ability to invest in research, development, and commercialization efforts.

Current report

Additionally, the development and commercialization of pharmaceutical products are subject to extensive regulatory requirements, including approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other global regulatory authorities. If we or our partners are unable to obtain the necessary approvals or face delays in the regulatory process, our ability to generate revenue from pharmaceutical applications of our molecules may be significantly limited.

Current report

Failure by outsourcing facilities that produce pharmaceutical-grade Niagen® to adequately perform their obligations could harm our business or financial results.

Current report

We rely on contract manufacturers to manufacture pharmaceutical-grade Niagen® and 503B outsourcing facilities to compound and distribute pharmaceutical-grade Niagen® into intravenous, injectable and intravenous-push forms and then distribute the same. We do not control or direct the compounding process used by these outsourcing facilities. We rely on those manufacturers and outsourcing facilities for compliance with the applicable regulatory requirements. We have no control over the ability of third parties to maintain adequate quality control, quality assurance and qualified personnel. If the FDA or a comparable international regulatory authority does not approve these facilities for the manufacturing or compounding of these ingredients and products, respectively, or if it withdraws any such approval in the future, we may need to identify alternative manufacturing and compounding facilities, which would significantly impact our ability to meet consumer demand. In addition, our inability to identify or enter into satisfactory arrangements with any such alternative manufacturing and compounding facilities may result in a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Further, our reliance on third-party manufacturers entails risks, including:

Current report

•inability to meet certain product specifications and quality requirements consistently;

Current report

•issues related to scale-up of manufacturing;

Current report

•third-party manufacturers may not be able to execute necessary manufacturing procedures and other logistical support requirements appropriately;

Current report

•third-party manufacturers may fail to comply with current good manufacturing practice (“cGMP”) requirements and other requirements by the FDA or other comparable regulatory authorities;

Current report

•inability for us to negotiate manufacturing agreements with third parties under commercially reasonable terms, if at all;

Current report

•breach, termination or non-renewal of manufacturing agreements with third parties in a manner or at a time that is costly or damaging to us the clinics with which we partner;

Current report

•third-party manufacturers may not devote sufficient resources to our products;

Current report

•we may not own, or may have to share, the intellectual property rights to any improvements made by third-party manufacturers in the manufacturing process;

Current report

•operations of third-party manufacturers or our suppliers could be disrupted by conditions unrelated to our business or operations, including the bankruptcy of the manufacturer or supplier; and

Current report

•logistics carrier disruptions or increased costs that are beyond our control.

Current report

Any adverse developments affecting manufacturing operations may result in lot failures, inventory shortages, shipment delays, product withdrawals or recalls or other interruptions in the supply of these products, which could prevent their delivery to clinics or other third parties administering or distributing pharmaceutical-grade Niagen®. We may also have to write off inventory, incur other charges and expenses to replace ingredients or dietary supplements that fail to meet specifications, undertake costly remediation efforts, or seek more costly manufacturing alternatives.

Current report

Any of these events could impact our ability to successfully commercialize any future products. Some of these events could be the basis for FDA action, including injunction, request for recall, seizure, total or partial suspension of production, or issuance of a Form 483 or Warning Letter.

Current report

Any failure by clinics administering Niagen Plus products could adversely affect our brand and reputation.

Current report

Although we are operationally independent from the clinics that administer Niagen Plus products, which feature pharmaceutical-grade Niagen®, our brand may be negatively affected by issues arising at the clinic level. We advertise locations where consumers can receive Niagen Plus products, which may create an association between our brand and the services provided by these third-party clinics.

Current report

If clinics administering Niagen Plus products fail to adhere to proper medical protocols, engage in misleading marketing practices, or face regulatory scrutiny, our brand reputation could suffer, even if we are not directly responsible for their actions. Additionally, any adverse events or negative customer experiences at these clinics could erode consumer trust in our products and impact demand. While we seek to partner with reputable clinics, we cannot control their operations, and any issues at the clinic level could have a material adverse effect on our business and reputation.

Current report

•we may rely on third-parties to develop and produce our products, which could lead to increased costs, unanticipated delays, or other negative impacts;

Current report

•we may not be able to partner with clinics willing to distribute our products;

Current report

•prescriptions for our pharmaceutical-grade products, which require a prescription, may not be available;
Removed paragraphs (5)

Previous report

•The occurrence of pandemics and epidemics, including potential resurgences, poses risks to our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.

Previous report

•acquire cost-effective television advertising;

Previous report

The litigation includes multiple complaints and counterclaims by us and Elysium in venues in California and New York, as well as a patent infringement complaint filed by the Company and Trustees of Dartmouth College. For further details on this litigation, please refer to Note 16, Commitments and Contingencies — Legal Proceedings in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, included in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Previous report

The litigation is substantial and complex, and it has caused and could continue to cause us to incur significant costs, as well as distract our management over an extended period. The litigation may substantially disrupt our business and we cannot assure you that we will be able to resolve the litigation on terms favorable to us. If we are unsuccessful in resolving the litigation on favorable terms to us, we may be forced to pay compensatory and punitive damages and restitution for any royalty payments that we received from Elysium, which payments could materially harm our business, or be subject to other remedies, including injunctive relief. We cannot predict the outcome of our litigation with Elysium, which could have any of the results described above or other results that could materially adversely affect our business.

Previous report

We face additional risks in China due to China’s historically limited recognition and enforcement of contractual and intellectual property rights. We may experience difficulty enforcing our intellectual property rights in China. Unauthorized use of our technologies and intellectual property rights by partners or competitors may dilute or undermine the strength of our brands. If we cannot adequately monitor the use of our technologies and products, or enforce our intellectual property rights in China or contractual restrictions relating to use of our intellectual property by Chinese companies, our revenue could be adversely affected.
Reworded paragraphs (38)

Previous wording

•The success of our consumer product and ingredient business is linked to the size and growth rate of the vitamin, mineral and dietary supplement market and an adverse change in the size or growth rate of that market could have a material adverse effect on us.

Current wording

•The success of our consumer product and ingredient business is linked to the size and growth rate of the wellness industry market and an adverse change in the size or growth rate of that market could have a material adverse effect on us.

Previous wording

•If we are unable to maintain sales, marketing and distribution capabilities or maintain arrangements with third parties to sell, market and distribute our products, our business may be harmed.

Current wording

•If we are unable to maintain or develop sales, marketing and distribution capabilities or maintain or develop arrangements with third parties to sell, market and distribute our products, our business may be harmed.

Previous wording

•We rely on single supplier, W.R. Grace, for NR and a limited number of third-party suppliers for the raw materials required to produce our products.

Current wording

•We rely on a single supplier, W.R. Grace, for NRC and a limited number of third-party suppliers for the raw materials required to produce our products.

Previous wording

•Changes in government regulation or in practices relating to the pharmaceutical, dietary supplement, food and cosmetic industry could decrease the need for the services we provide.

Current wording

•Changes in government regulation or in practices relating to the pharmaceutical, dietary supplement, food and cosmetic industry could affect our ability to comply and the demand for our products and services.

Previous wording

We have a limited operating history in China and we face risks with respect to conducting business in connection with our joint venture in China due to certain legal, political, economic and social uncertainties relating to China.

Current wording

•We have a limited operating history in China and our ability to develop successful channels in China is subject to legal, political, economic and social uncertainties.

Previous wording

We have a history of losses and may continue to incur operating and net losses for the foreseeable future. We incurred net losses of approximately $4.9 million and $16.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, our accumulated deficit was approximately $190.5 million. We have not achieved profitability on an annual basis. Our net losses and history of negative cash flow have had, and will continue to have, an adverse effect on our stockholders’ equity and working capital, and if we are not able to achieve and sustain profitability in the near future or at all our stock price may be depressed. We expect to continue to incur increasing expenses as we develop our sales, marketing distribution and other commercial infrastructure and continue to develop and commercializing our products, including the cost of obtaining and maintaining regulatory approvals.

Current wording

We have a history of losses and may continue to incur operating and net losses in the future. We recorded a net income of approximately $8.6 million and a net loss of $4.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. As of December 31, 2024, our accumulated deficit was approximately $181.9 million. While we had a net income in 2024, we have not achieved consistent profitability on an annual basis. Our history of net losses and negative cash flow have had, and will continue to have, an adverse effect on our stockholders’ equity and working capital, and if we are not able to achieve and sustain profitability in the near future or at all our stock price may be depressed. We expect to continue to incur increasing expenses as we develop our sales, marketing distribution and other commercial infrastructure and continue to develop and commercializing our products, including the cost of obtaining and maintaining regulatory approvals, and establishing new distribution channels for pharmaceutical-grade Niagen®.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, our cash and cash equivalents totaled approximately $27.3 million, of which $27.2 million was unrestricted, and we had no borrowings outstanding under our line of credit up to $10.0 million, subject to certain terms and conditions, with Western Alliance Bank. However, we may require additional funds, either through additional equity or debt financings, including pursuant to the At Market Issuance Sales Agreement, dated as of June 12, 2020, with B. Riley FBR, Inc. and Raymond James & Associates, Inc. (ATM Facility), or collaborative agreements, lines of credit from other banks, or from other sources. We have no commitments to obtain such additional financing, and we may not be able to obtain any such additional financing on terms favorable to us, or at all. Further, in recent years as a result of various factors including global instability, increased interest rates, and inflationary conditions, among other factors, the global credit and financial markets have experienced extreme volatility, including diminished liquidity and credit availability and uncertainty about economic stability. There can be no assurance that further deterioration in credit and financial markets and confidence in economic conditions will not occur. If equity and credit markets deteriorate, it may make any necessary debt or equity financing more difficult to obtain, more costly and/or more dilutive. If adequate financing is not available, the Company will further delay, postpone or terminate product and service expansion and curtail certain selling, general and administrative operations. The inability to raise additional financing may have a material adverse effect on the future performance of the Company.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, our cash and cash equivalents totaled approximately $44.7 million, of which $44.5 million was unrestricted, and we had no borrowings outstanding under our line of credit up to $10.0 million, subject to certain terms and conditions, with Western Alliance Bank. However, we may require additional funds, either through additional equity or debt financings, including pursuant to the At Market Issuance Sales Agreement with Raymond James & Associates, Inc. and Roth Capital Partners, LLC (ATM Facility), or collaborative agreements, lines of credit from other banks, or from other sources. We have no commitments to obtain such additional financing, and we may not be able to obtain any such additional financing on terms favorable to us, or at all. Further, in recent years as a result of various factors including global instability, increased interest rates, and inflationary conditions, among other factors, the global credit and financial markets have experienced extreme volatility, including diminished liquidity and credit availability and uncertainty about economic stability. There can be no assurance that further deterioration in credit and financial markets and confidence in economic conditions will not occur. If equity and credit markets deteriorate, it may make any necessary debt or equity financing more difficult to obtain, more costly and/or more dilutive. If adequate financing is not available, the Company will delay, postpone or terminate product and service expansion and curtail certain selling, general and administrative operations. The inability to raise additional financing may have a material adverse effect on the future performance of the Company.

Previous wording

A.S. Watson Group, a related party, accounted for approximately 15.4% of our sales during the year ended December 31, 2023. Any interruption in our relationship or decline in our business with this customer or other customers upon whom we become highly dependent could cause harm to our business. Factors that could influence our relationship with our customers upon whom we may become highly dependent include:

Current wording

Any interruption in our relationship or decline in our business with key customers upon whom we become highly dependent could cause harm to our business. Factors that could influence our relationship with our customers upon whom we may become highly dependent include:

Previous wording

Concerns over inflation, geopolitical issues, the U.S. financial markets, higher interest rates, foreign exchange rates, capital and exchange controls, unstable global credit markets and financial conditions, have led to periods of significant economic instability, declines in consumer confidence and discretionary spending and diminished expectations for the global economy and expectations of slower global economic growth going forward. Our general business strategy may be adversely affected by any such economic downturns, volatile business environments and unstable or unpredictable economic and market conditions. If these conditions continue to deteriorate or do not improve, it may make any necessary debt or equity financing more difficult to complete, more costly and more dilutive. In addition, there is a risk that one or more of our current or future service providers, manufacturers, suppliers and other partners could be negatively affected by difficult economic times, which could adversely affect our ability to attain our operating goals on schedule and on budget or meet our business and financial objectives. Specifically, the impact of these volatile and negative conditions may include, but are not limited to, decreased demand for our products and services as consumers may consider the purchase of nutritional products discretionary, a decrease in our ability to accurately forecast future product trends and demand, and a negative impact on our ability to timely collect receivables from our customers. The foregoing economic conditions may lead to increased levels of bankruptcies, restructurings and liquidations for our customers, scaling back of research and development expenditures, delays in planned projects and shifts in business strategies for many of our customers. Such events could, in turn, adversely affect our business through loss of sales.

Current wording

Concerns over inflation, tariffs, import/export regulations, trade disputes, geopolitical issues, the U.S. financial markets, higher interest rates, foreign exchange rates, capital and exchange controls, unstable global credit markets and financial conditions, have led to periods of significant economic instability, declines in consumer confidence and discretionary spending and diminished expectations for the global economy and expectations of slower global economic growth going forward. Our general business strategy may be adversely affected by any such economic downturns, volatile business environments and unstable or unpredictable economic and market conditions. If these conditions continue to deteriorate or do not improve, it may make any necessary debt or equity financing more difficult to complete, more costly and more dilutive. In addition, there is a risk that one or more of our current or future service providers, manufacturers, suppliers and other partners could be negatively affected by difficult economic times, which could adversely affect our ability to attain our operating goals on schedule and on budget or meet our business and financial objectives. Specifically, the impact of these volatile and negative conditions may include, but are not limited to, decreased demand for our products and services as consumers may consider the purchase of nutritional products discretionary, a decrease in our ability to accurately forecast future product trends and demand, and a negative impact on our ability to timely collect receivables from our customers. The foregoing economic conditions may lead to increased levels of bankruptcies, restructurings and liquidations for our customers, scaling back of research and development expenditures, delays in planned projects and shifts in business strategies for many of our customers. Such events could, in turn, adversely affect our business through loss of sales.

Previous wording

The success of our consumer product and ingredient business is linked to the size and growth rate of the vitamin, mineral and dietary supplement market and an adverse change in the size or growth rate of that market could have a material adverse effect on us.

Current wording

The success of our consumer product and ingredient business is linked to the size and growth rate of the wellness industry market and an adverse change in the size or growth rate of that market could have a material adverse effect on us.

Previous wording

An adverse change in the size or growth rate of the vitamin, mineral and dietary supplement market could have a material adverse effect on our business. Underlying market conditions are subject to change based on economic conditions, consumer preferences and other factors that are beyond our control, including media attention and scientific research, which may be positive or negative.

Current wording

An adverse change in the size or growth rate of the wellness industry market, particularly the dietary supplement market, could have a material adverse effect on our business. The success of our pharmaceutical-grade Niagen® ingredient offering is dependent on the continued growth of the intravenous hydration therapy and spa markets and our ability to reach those markets. Underlying market conditions are subject to change based on economic conditions, consumer preferences and other factors that are beyond our control, including media attention and scientific research, which may be positive or negative.

Previous wording

•the expenses we incur in developing and commercializing our products, including the cost of obtaining and maintaining regulatory approvals; and

Current wording

•the expenses we incur in developing and commercializing our products, including the cost of obtaining and maintaining regulatory approvals and developing new distribution channels; and

Previous wording

As changes in our business environment occur we may adjust our business strategies to meet these changes or we may otherwise decide to restructure our operations or businesses or assets. In addition, external events including changing technology, changing consumer patterns and changes in macroeconomic conditions, including inflationary pressures, may impair the value of our assets and increase our costs. When these changes or events occur, we may incur costs to change our business strategy and may need to write down the value of assets. In any of these events, our costs may increase, we may have significant charges associated with the write-down of assets or returns on new investments may be lower than prior to the change in strategy or restructuring. For example, we may not be successful in developing our consumer product business for sales of Tru Niagen® products, and our sales may decrease despite us incurring increased costs related to marketing such products.

Current wording

As changes in our business environment occur we may adjust our business strategies to meet these changes or we may otherwise decide to restructure our operations or businesses or assets. In addition, external events including changing technology, changing consumer patterns and changes in macroeconomic conditions, including inflationary pressures, may impair the value of our assets and increase our costs. When these changes or events occur, we may incur costs to change our business strategy and may need to write down the value of assets. In any of these events, our costs may increase, we may have significant charges associated with the write-down of assets or returns on new investments may be lower than prior to the change in strategy or restructuring. For example, we may not be successful in developing our consumer product business for sales of Tru Niagen® products or sales of our Niagen® ingredient products, and our sales may decrease despite us incurring increased costs related to marketing or otherwise developing such products.

Previous wording

The markets for some of our products are also subject to specific competitive risks because these markets are highly price competitive. Our competitors have competed in the past by lowering prices on certain products. If they do so again, we may be forced to respond by lowering our prices. This would reduce sales revenues and increase losses. Failure to anticipate and respond to price competition may also impact sales and aggravate losses. Our commercial opportunity could be reduced if our competitors develop and commercialize products that are more effective or convenient than our products. Our competitors also may obtain regulatory approval for their products in markets we have not yet entered or before we are able to obtain approval for ours, which could result in our competitors establishing a strong market position before we are able to enter that market.

Current wording

Furthermore, the markets for some of our products are also subject to specific competitive risks because these markets are highly price competitive. Our competitors have competed in the past by lowering prices on certain products. If they do so again, we may be forced to respond by lowering our prices. This would reduce sales revenues and increase losses. Failure to anticipate and respond to price competition may also impact sales and aggravate losses. Our commercial opportunity could be reduced if our competitors develop and commercialize products that are more effective or convenient than our products. Our competitors also may obtain regulatory approval for their products in markets we have not yet entered or before we are able to obtain approval for ours, which could result in our competitors establishing a strong market position before we are able to enter that market. To the extent we are not the first to develop, offer and/or supply new products, customers may buy from our competitors or make materials themselves, causing our competitive position to suffer.

Previous wording

Substantial, complex or extended litigation could cause us to incur significant costs and distract our management. For example, lawsuits by employees, stockholders, collaborators, distributors, customers, competitors or others could be very costly and substantially disrupt our business. Disputes from time to time with such companies, organizations or individuals are not uncommon, and we cannot assure you that we will always be able to resolve such disputes on terms favorable to us. As further described in Note 16, Commitments and Contingencies —Contingencies in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, included in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we are currently involved in substantial and complex litigation. Unexpected results could cause us to have financial exposure in these matters in excess of recorded reserves and insurance coverage, requiring us to provide additional reserves to address these liabilities, therefore impacting profits.

Current wording

Substantial, complex or extended litigation could cause us to incur significant costs and distract our management. For example, lawsuits by employees, stockholders, collaborators, distributors, customers, competitors or others could be very costly and substantially disrupt our business. Disputes from time to time with such companies, organizations or individuals are not uncommon, and we cannot assure you that we will always be able to resolve such disputes on terms favorable to us. Refer to Note 16, Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, included in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, for more detail. Unexpected results could cause us to have financial exposure in these matters in excess of recorded reserves and insurance coverage, requiring us to provide additional reserves to address these liabilities, therefore impacting profits.

Previous wording

If we are unable to maintain sales, marketing and distribution capabilities or maintain arrangements with third parties to sell, market and distribute our products, our business may be harmed.

Current wording

If we are unable to maintain or develop sales, marketing and distribution capabilities or maintain or develop arrangements with third parties to sell, market and distribute our products, our business may be harmed.

Previous wording

In the ordinary course of our business, we may collect, process, store and transmit proprietary, confidential and sensitive information, including personal information (including health information), intellectual property, trade secrets, and proprietary business information owned or controlled by ourselves or other parties. We use our data centers and our networks, and those of third parties, to store and access our proprietary business and other sensitive information. We and the third parties upon which we rely may face various cyber security threats, which are prevalent and continue to increase, including, without limitation, cyber security attacks to our information technology infrastructure and attempts by others to gain access to our proprietary or sensitive information and other similar threats. We rely upon third parties service providers and technologies to operate critical business systems to process confidential and personal information in a variety of contexts, including, without limitation, third-party providers of cloud-based infrastructure, employee email, and other functions. Our ability to monitor these third-party providers information security practices is limited, and these third-parties may not have adequate information security measures in place. Ransomware attacks, including those from organized criminal threat actors, nation-states and nation-state supported actors, are becoming increasingly prevalent and can lead to significant interruptions, delays, or outages in our operations, loss of data, loss of income, significant extra expenses to restore data or systems, reputational loss and the diversion of funds. Similarly, supply-chain attacks have increased in frequency and severity, and we cannot guarantee that third-parties and infrastructure in our supply chain or our third-party partners’ supply-chains have not been compromised or that they do not contain exploitable defects or bugs that could result in a breach of or disruption to our information technology systems (including our products/services) or the third-party information technology systems that support us and our services. There may be additional cyber security threats as our employees have the ability to work from home, utilizing network connections outside of the Company premises. Any of the previously identified or similar threats could cause a security incident or other interruption and could result in unauthorized, unlawful, or accidental acquisition, modification, destruction, loss, alteration, encryption, disclosure of, or access to data. A security incident or other interruption could disrupt our ability (and that of third parties upon whom we rely) to provide our products and services. Despite our efforts to identify and remediate vulnerabilities, if any, in our information technology systems (including our products), our efforts may not be successful. Further, we may experience delays in developing and deploying remedial measures designed to address any…

Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.

Current wording

In the ordinary course of our business, we may collect, process, store and transmit proprietary, confidential and sensitive information, including personal information (including health information), intellectual property, trade secrets, and proprietary business information owned or controlled by ourselves or other parties. We use our data centers and our networks, and those of third parties, to store and access our proprietary business and other sensitive information. We and the third parties upon which we rely may face various cyber security threats, which are prevalent and continue to increase, including, without limitation, cyber security attacks to our information technology infrastructure and attempts by others to gain access to our proprietary or sensitive information and other similar threats, including attacks enhanced or facilitated by artificial intelligence (AI) and other similar threats. We rely upon third parties service providers and technologies to operate critical business systems to process confidential and personal information in a variety of contexts, including, without limitation, third-party providers of cloud-based infrastructure, employee email, and other functions. Our ability to monitor these third-party providers information security practices is limited, and these third-parties may not have adequate information security measures in place. Ransomware attacks, including those from organized criminal threat actors, nation-states and nation-state supported actors, are becoming increasingly prevalent and can lead to significant interruptions, delays, or outages in our operations, loss of data, loss of income, significant extra expenses to restore data or systems, reputational loss and the diversion of funds. Similarly, supply-chain attacks have increased in frequency and severity, and we cannot guarantee that third-parties and infrastructure in our supply chain or our third-party partners’ supply-chains have not been compromised or that they do not contain exploitable defects or bugs that could result in a breach of or disruption to our information technology systems (including our products/services) or the third-party information technology systems that support us and our services. There may be additional cyber security threats as our employees have the ability to work from home, utilizing network connections outside of the Company premises. Any of the previously identified or similar threats could cause a security incident or other interruption and could result in unauthorized, unlawful, or accidental acquisition, modification, destruction, loss, alteration, encryption, disclosure of, or access to data. A security incident or other interruption could disrupt our ability (and that of third parties upon whom we rely) to provide our products and services. Despite our efforts to identify and remediate vulnerabilities, if any, in our information technology systems (including our products), our efforts may not be successful. Fu…

Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.

Previous wording

Our business depends greatly on the expertise and contributions of several key individuals, including Robert Fried, Brianna Gerber and Heather Van Blarcom who are our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President of Legal and Corporate Secretary, respectively. Additionally, we rely on other critical team members, including professionals in scientific research and marketing. The development of our products and services and the effective marketing of our offerings necessitate individuals with specialized skills and experience. Moreover, certain positions within our organization, such as those in manufacturing, quality control, safety and compliance, information technology, sales, and e-commerce, are highly technical and require qualified personnel. We operate within highly competitive markets, and the demand for skilled professionals in our industry is high. Competitors, customers, marketing partners, and other companies in our industry also seek these same talented individuals. Therefore, our ability to succeed is intrinsically linked to our capacity to attract and retain skilled personnel, which will necessitate substantial financial resources. There can be no guarantee that we will successfully identify and attract additional qualified employees or retain our existing team members. Any inability to recruit qualified personnel, the loss of key individuals' services, including our executive officers, or the potential loss of future executive officers or key personnel, may have a material and adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

Our business depends greatly on the expertise and contributions of several key individuals, including our senior leadership team and other critical team members, including professionals in scientific research and marketing. The development of our products and services and the effective marketing of our offerings necessitate individuals with specialized skills and experience. Moreover, certain positions within our organization, such as those in manufacturing, quality control, safety and compliance, information technology, sales, and e-commerce, are highly technical and require qualified personnel. We operate within highly competitive markets, and the demand for skilled professionals in our industry is high. Competitors, customers, marketing partners, and other companies in our industry also seek these same talented individuals. Therefore, our ability to succeed is intrinsically linked to our capacity to attract and retain skilled personnel, which will necessitate substantial financial resources. There can be no guarantee that we will successfully identify and attract additional qualified employees or retain our existing team members. Any inability to recruit qualified personnel, the loss of key individuals' services, including our executive officers, or the potential loss of future executive officers or key personnel, may have a material and adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

We may not be successful in acquiring complementary businesses or products on favorable terms or entry into joint venture or similar arrangements.

Current wording

We may not be successful in acquiring complementary businesses or products on favorable terms or enter into joint venture or similar arrangements.

Previous wording

We rely on single supplier, W.R. Grace, for NR and a limited number of third-party suppliers for the raw materials required to produce our products.

Current wording

We rely on a single supplier, W.R. Grace, for NRC and a limited number of third-party suppliers for the raw materials required to produce our products. Any failure by or loss of a third-party supplier could result in delays and increased costs, which may adversely affect our business.

Previous wording

Our dependence on a limited number of third-party suppliers or on a single supplier, and the challenges we may face in obtaining adequate supplies of raw materials, involve several risks, including limited control over pricing, availability, quality and delivery schedules. We cannot be certain that our current suppliers will continue to provide us with the quantities of these raw materials that we require or satisfy our anticipated specifications and quality requirements. Any supply interruption in limited or sole sourced raw materials could materially harm our ability to manufacture our products until a new source of supply, if any, could be identified and qualified. We may be unable to find a sufficient alternative supply channel in a reasonable time or on commercially reasonable terms. Any performance failure on the part of our suppliers could delay the development and commercialization of our products, or interrupt production of then existing products that are already marketed, which would have a material adverse effect on our business. In particular, W.R. Grace & Co.-Conn. (Grace) is our single source for the supply of NR. Our supply of NR is subject to periodic renewals and these renewals are not guaranteed. In January 2019, Grace was issued patents related to the crystalline form of NR chloride which limit our ability to find alternatives for supply if we are unable to further extend our agreement with Grace. There is no guarantee that we will be able to continue to contract with Grace for the supply of NR, or that such terms will be favorable to us.

Current wording

Our dependence on a limited number of third-party suppliers or on a single supplier, and the challenges we may face in obtaining adequate supplies of raw materials, including NRC, involve several risks, including limited control over pricing, availability, quality and delivery schedules. We cannot be certain that our current suppliers will continue to provide us with the quantities of these raw materials that we require or satisfy our anticipated specifications and quality requirements. Any supply interruption in limited or sole sourced raw materials, including supply shortages, supplier production disruptions, quantity issuers, or disruption to our suppliers, could materially harm our ability to manufacture our products until a new source of supply, if any, could be identified and qualified. Additionally, our suppliers may fail inspection or have other compliance issues with regulatory authorities that, even if unrelated to our supply chain and materials, may impact or cause delays in their ability to deliver agreed upon supplies in a timely manner which can have negative impacts on our business plans. We may be unable to find a sufficient alternative supply channel in a reasonable time or on commercially reasonable terms. Any performance failure on the part of our suppliers could delay the development and commercialization of our products, or interrupt production of then existing products that are already marketed, which would have a material adverse effect on our business. In particular, W.R. Grace & Co.-Conn. (Grace) is our single source for the supply of food-grade NRC. Our supply of NRC is subject to periodic renewals and these renewals are not guaranteed. In January 2019, Grace was issued patents related to the crystalline form of NRC which limit our ability to find alternatives for supply if we are unable to further extend our agreement with Grace. There is no guarantee that we will be able to continue to contract with Grace for the supply of NRC, or that such terms will be favorable to us.

Previous wording

We believe the dietary supplement market is highly dependent upon consumer perception regarding the safety, efficacy and quality of dietary supplements generally, as well as of products distributed specifically by us. Consumer perception of our products can be significantly influenced by scientific research or findings, regulatory investigations, litigation, national media attention, social media and other publicity regarding the consumption of dietary supplements. We cannot assure you that future scientific research, findings, regulatory proceedings, litigation, media attention or other research findings or publicity will be favorable to the dietary supplement market or any product, or consistent with earlier publicity. Future research reports, findings, regulatory proceedings, litigation, media attention or other publicity that are perceived as less favorable than, or that question, such earlier research reports, findings or publicity could have a material adverse effect on the demand for our products and consequently on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Current wording

We believe the dietary supplement and intravenous therapies market are highly dependent upon consumer perception regarding the safety, efficacy and quality of dietary supplements generally, as well as of products distributed specifically by us. Consumer perception of our products can be significantly influenced by scientific research or findings, regulatory investigations, litigation, national media attention, social media and other publicity regarding the consumption of dietary supplements. We cannot assure you that future scientific research, findings, regulatory proceedings, litigation, media attention or other research findings or publicity will be favorable to the dietary supplement market or any product, or consistent with earlier publicity. Future research reports, findings, regulatory proceedings, litigation, media attention or other publicity that are perceived as less favorable than, or that question, such earlier research reports, findings or publicity could have a material adverse effect on the demand for our products and consequently on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Previous wording

As a consumer product and ingredient supplier we market and manufacture products designed for human and animal consumption. We are subject to product liability claims if the use of our products is alleged to have resulted in injury. Our products consist of ingredients classified as dietary supplements, or natural health products, and, in most cases, are not subject to pre-market regulatory approval in the United States. Previously unknown adverse reactions resulting from human consumption of these ingredients could occur. In addition, the products we sell are produced by third-party manufacturers. As a marketer of products manufactured by third parties, we also may be liable for various product liability claims for products we do not manufacture. We have, and may in the future, be subject to various product liability claims, including, among others, that our products include inadequate instructions for use or inadequate warnings concerning possible side effects and interactions with other substances. A product liability claim or class action litigation against us could result in increased costs and could adversely affect our reputation with our customers, which, in turn, could have a materially adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Current wording

As a consumer product and ingredient supplier we market and manufacture products designed for human and animal consumption. We are subject to product liability claims if the use of our products is alleged to have resulted in injury. Our products include ingredients classified as dietary supplements, or natural health products, and, in most cases, are not subject to pre-market regulatory approval in the United States. Previously unknown adverse reactions resulting from human consumption of these ingredients could occur. In addition, the products we sell are produced by third-party manufacturers and outsourcing facilities. As a marketer of products manufactured by third parties, we also may be liable for various product liability claims for products we do not manufacture. We have, and may in the future, be subject to various product liability claims, including, among others, that our products include inadequate instructions for use or inadequate warnings concerning possible side effects and interactions with other substances. A product liability claim or class action litigation against us could result in increased costs and could adversely affect our reputation with our customers, which, in turn, could have a materially adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Previous wording

We may never develop any additional products to commercialize.

Current wording

We may experience delays in the development in, or may never develop, any additional products to commercialize.

Previous wording

•we may not be able to obtain regulatory approvals for our products, or the approved indication may be narrower than we seek;

Current wording

•we may not be able to obtain or maintain regulatory approvals for our products, or the approved indication may be narrower than we seek;

Previous wording

In the event a competitor infringes our licensed or pending patent or other intellectual property rights, enforcing those rights may be costly, uncertain, difficult and time consuming. Even if successful, litigation to enforce our intellectual property rights or to defend our patents against challenge could be expensive and time consuming and could divert our management’s attention. We may not have sufficient resources to enforce our intellectual property rights or to defend our patents rights against a challenge. The failure to obtain patents and/or protect our intellectual property rights could have a material and adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

In the event a competitor infringes our licensed or pending patent or other intellectual property rights, enforcing those rights may be costly, uncertain, difficult and time consuming. Even if successful, litigation to enforce our intellectual property rights or to defend our patents against challenge could be expensive and time consuming and could divert our management’s attention. In particular, the final outcome of our litigation with Elysium Health, Inc. and Elysium Health LLC (collectively, “Elysium”) may have an adverse effect on our financial condition. See Note 16, Commitments and Contingencies, Legal Proceedings in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, included in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We may not have sufficient resources to enforce our intellectual property rights or to defend our patents rights against a challenge. The failure to obtain patents and/or protect our intellectual property rights could have a material and adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

Changes in government regulation or in practices relating to the pharmaceutical, dietary supplement, food and cosmetic industry could decrease the need for the services we provide.

Current wording

Changes in government regulation, priorities or practices relating to the pharmaceutical, dietary supplement, food and cosmetic industry could affect our ability to comply with certain regulations and the demand for our products and services.

Previous wording

Governmental agencies throughout the world, including in the United States, strictly regulate the pharmaceutical, dietary supplement, food and cosmetic industries. Changes in regulation, such as a relaxation in regulatory requirements or the introduction of simplified drug approval procedures, or an increase in regulatory requirements that we may have difficulty satisfying or that make our services less competitive, could eliminate or substantially reduce the demand for our services. Also, if the government makes efforts to contain drug costs and pharmaceutical and biotechnology company profits from new drugs, or if health insurers were to change their practices with respect to reimbursements for pharmaceutical products, our customers may spend less, or reduce their spending on research and development.

Current wording

Governmental agencies throughout the world, including in the United States, strictly regulate the pharmaceutical, dietary supplement, food and cosmetic industries. Changes in regulation or regulatory priorities, such as a relaxation in regulatory requirements or the introduction of simplified drug approval procedures, or an increase in regulatory requirements that we may have difficulty satisfying or that make our services less competitive, could eliminate or substantially reduce the demand for our services or adversely impact our ability to comply with the new regulations. Also, if the government makes efforts to contain drug costs and pharmaceutical and biotechnology company profits from new drugs, or if health insurers were to change their practices with respect to reimbursements for pharmaceutical products, our customers may spend less, or reduce their spending on research and development.

Previous wording

A United States federal privacy bill advanced to the U.S. House of Representatives on July 20, 2022, which has been amended as of December 30, 2022, and recommended for passage as law, would establish new requirements for how companies handle personal data, including information that identifies or is reasonably linked to an individual, such as our consumers. If this bill becomes law, we may be required to implement certain security practices to protect and secure personal data against unauthorized access, and we may be subject to further requirements for complying with this requirement if the FTC issues related regulations. Additionally, if we become subject to new data privacy laws, at the state level, the risk of enforcement action against us could increase because we may become subject to additional obligations, and the number of individuals or entities that can initiate actions against us may increase (including individuals, via a private right of action, and state actors).Other data privacy and security laws have been proposed at the federal, state, and local levels in recent years, which could further complicate compliance efforts.

Current wording

A United States federal privacy bill has been introduced, which would establish new requirements for how companies handle personal data, including information that identifies or is reasonably linked to an individual, such as our consumers. If this bill becomes law, we may be required to implement certain security practices to protect and secure personal data against unauthorized access, and we may be subject to further requirements for complying with this requirement if the FTC issues related regulations. Additionally, if we become subject to new data privacy laws, at the state level, the risk of enforcement action against us could increase because we may become subject to additional obligations, and the number of individuals or entities that can initiate actions against us may increase (including individuals, via a private right of action, and state actors).Other data privacy and security laws have been proposed at the federal, state, and local levels in recent years, which could further complicate compliance efforts.

Previous wording

Some of our operations are subject to regulation by various United States federal agencies and similar state and international agencies, including the Department of Commerce, the FDA, the FTC, the Department of Transportation and the Department of Agriculture. These regulations govern a wide variety of product activities, from design and development to labeling, manufacturing, handling, sales and distribution of products. If we fail to comply with any of these regulations, we may be subject to fines or penalties, have to recall products and/or cease their manufacture and distribution, which would increase our costs and reduce our sales.

Current wording

Some of our operations are subject to regulation by various United States federal agencies and similar state and international agencies, including the Department of Commerce, the FDA, the FTC, the Department of Transportation and the Department of Agriculture, and the California State Board of Pharmacy. These regulations govern a wide variety of product activities, from design and development to labeling, manufacturing, handling, sales, distribution of products, and promoting and advertising products. If we fail to comply with any of these regulations, we may be subject to fines or penalties, have to recall products and/or cease their manufacture and distribution, which would increase our costs and reduce our sales. We rely on outsourcing facilities for compounding our pharmaceutical-grade Niagen® ingredient. The bulk drug substances must appear on the FDA’s “interim” list of bulk substances that may be used in compounding under Section 503B which are those bulk drug substances for which the FDA has determined there is a clinical need. If certain conditions are met, the FDA will exercise enforcement discretion concerning use of “interim” Category 1 substances pending evaluation of the substances for inclusion on the FDA’s final list of bulk drug substances for which there is a clinical need. If the substances used in manufacturing and compounding our products are removed from this interim list or if the FDA determines not to place NRC on the final list of bulk drug substances for which there is a clinical need, it may subject us and our third-party partners to additional regulatory scrutiny.

Previous wording

We are also subject to various federal, state, local and international laws and regulations that govern the handling, transportation, manufacture, use and sale of substances that are or could be classified as toxic or hazardous substances. Some risk of environmental damage is inherent in our operations and the products we manufacture, sell, or distribute. In addition, we may incur substantial costs in order to comply with current or future environmental, health and safety laws and regulations. Current or future environmental laws and regulations may impair our research, development or production efforts. In addition, failure to comply with these laws and regulations may result in substantial fines, penalties or other sanctions. Any failure by us to comply with the applicable government regulations could also result in product recalls or impositions of fines and restrictions on our ability to carry on with or expand in a portion or possibly all of our operations. If we fail to comply with any or all of these regulations, we may be subject to fines or penalties, have to recall products and/or cease their manufacture and distribution, which would increase our costs and reduce our sales.

Current wording

We are pursuing an investigational new drug (IND) application with the FDA with respect to the potential for one of our patented NAD precursors to be used as a treatment for Ataxia telangiectasia (AT), a rare disease with less than 200,000 cases diagnosed in the U.S. per year, and have obtained Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) and Rare Pediatric Disease (RPD) designation from the FDA. There is no guarantee that our IND application will be successful, or that we will be able to successfully complete clinical trials or a new drug application for FDA approval for the use of our patented NAD precursor as a treatment for AT. We are also subject to various federal, state, local and international laws and regulations that govern the handling, transportation, manufacture, use and sale of substances that are or could be classified as toxic or hazardous substances. Some risk of environmental damage is inherent in our operations and the products we manufacture, sell, or distribute. In addition, we may incur substantial costs in order to comply with current or future environmental, health and safety laws and regulations. Current or future environmental laws and regulations may impair our research, development or production efforts. In addition, failure to comply with these laws and regulations may result in substantial fines, penalties or other sanctions. Any failure by us to comply with the applicable government regulations could also result in product recalls or impositions of fines and restrictions on our ability to carry on with or expand in a portion or possibly all of our operations. If we fail to comply with any or all of these regulations, we may be subject to fines or penalties, have to recall products and/or cease their manufacture and distribution, which would increase our costs and reduce our sales.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, we had outstanding options for an aggregate of approximately 11.6 million shares of common stock at a weighted average exercise price of $3.68 per share and approximately 0.6 million of unvested restricted stock units. The holders may sell many of these shares in the public markets from time to time, without limitations on the timing, amount or method of sale. As and when our stock price rises, if at all, more outstanding options will be in-the-money and the holders may exercise their options and sell a large number of shares. This could cause the market price of our common stock to decline.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had outstanding options for an aggregate of approximately 10.4 million shares of common stock at a weighted average exercise price of $3.27 per share and approximately 0.6 million of unvested restricted stock units. The holders may sell many of these shares in the public markets from time to time, without limitations on the timing, amount or method of sale. As and when our stock price rises, if at all, more outstanding options will be in-the-money and the holders may exercise their options and sell a large number of shares. This could cause the market price of our common stock to decline.

Previous wording

Maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting is necessary for us to produce reliable and timely financial statements and disclosures. If we identify material weaknesses in our internal controls and/or fail to establish and maintain effective controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting it could result in material misstatements in our financial statements and/or a failure to meet our reporting and financial obligations, each of which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and the trading price of our common stock. The SEC has proposed a new rule regarding climate change that, if adopted, requires significant new disclosure obligations of us and requires us to update and develop our controls to accommodate these new obligations.

Current wording

Maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting is necessary for us to produce reliable and timely financial statements and disclosures. If we identify material weaknesses in our internal controls and/or fail to establish and maintain effective controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting it could result in material misstatements in our financial statements and/or a failure to meet our reporting and financial obligations, each of which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and the trading price of our common stock. The SEC has adopted new rules regarding climate change that, while stayed pending the resolution of various legal challenges, will require significant new disclosure obligations of us and requires us to update and develop our controls to accommodate these new obligations if implemented as adopted.

Previous wording

Companies across many industries are facing increased scrutiny, including by consumers, investors, employees and other stakeholders, as well as by governmental and non-governmental organizations surrounding environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices. This increased scrutiny and changing expectations with respect to the Company’s ESG practices as well as new rules and regulations may result in additional costs or risks. The SEC has proposed new rules regarding climate change that, if adopted, require significant new disclosure obligations of us and require us to update and develop our controls to accommodate these new obligations. Standards and research regarding ESG practices could change as a result of these rules. In addition, the State of California recently passed the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act and the Climate-Related Financial Risk Act that will impose broad climate-related disclosure obligations on certain companies doing business in California, starting in 2026. New or revised laws and regulations or new interpretations of existing laws and regulations, such as those related to climate change, could affect the operation of our properties or result in significant additional expense and restrictions on our business operations. If we are unable to satisfy such new criteria, investors may conclude that our policies with respect to corporate responsibility are inadequate. We risk damage to our brand and reputation in the event that our corporate responsibility procedures or standards do not meet the standards set by various constituencies, which could lead to the loss of existing or potential customers and reduced sales. There can be no assurance that investors or other constituents will not publicly advocate for us to not make corporate governance changes or engage in corporate actions and responding to challenges could be costly and time consuming.

Current wording

Companies across many industries are facing increased scrutiny, including by consumers, investors, employees and other stakeholders, as well as by governmental and non-governmental organizations surrounding environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices. This increased scrutiny and changing expectations with respect to the Company’s ESG practices as well as new rules and regulations may result in additional costs or risks. The State of California recently passed the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act and the Climate-Related Financial Risk Act that, if not overturned or amended, will impose broad climate-related disclosure obligations on certain companies doing business in California, starting in 2026. New or revised laws and regulations or new interpretations of existing laws and regulations, such as those related to climate change, could affect the operation of our properties or result in significant additional expense and restrictions on our business operations. If we are unable to satisfy such new criteria, investors may conclude that our policies with respect to corporate responsibility are inadequate. We risk damage to our brand and reputation in the event that our corporate responsibility procedures or standards do not meet the standards set by various constituencies, which could lead to the loss of existing or potential customers and reduced sales. There can be no assurance that investors or other constituents will not publicly advocate for us to not make corporate governance changes or engage in corporate actions and responding to challenges could be costly and time consuming.

Previous wording

Developing and achieving ESG initiatives may result in increased costs in our supply chain, fulfillment, and/or corporate business operations, and could deviate from our initial estimates and have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition. Furthermore, if our competitors’ corporate responsibility performance is perceived to be greater than ours, potential or current investors may elect to invest with our competitors instead. Investor advocacy groups, certain institutional investors, investment funds and other influential investors are increasingly focused on ESG practices and in recent years have placed increasing importance on the non-financial impacts of their investments. Topics taken into account in such assessments include, among others, the company’s efforts and impacts on climate change and human rights, ethics and compliance with law and the role of the Company’s board of directors in supervising various sustainability issues. In light of investors’ and other stakeholders’ increased focus on ESG matters, there can be no certainty that we will manage such issues successfully, or that we will successfully meet our investors’ or society’s ESG expectations. While our mission is to promote healthy aging, if our ESG practices do not meet investor or other industry stakeholder expectations, which continue to evolve, we may incur additional costs and our brand’s ability to attract and retain qualified employees and business may be harmed.

Current wording

Developing and achieving ESG initiatives may result in increased costs in our supply chain, fulfillment, and/or corporate business operations, and could deviate from our initial estimates and have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition. Furthermore, if our competitors’ corporate responsibility performance is perceived to be greater than ours, potential or current investors may elect to invest with our competitors instead. Investor advocacy groups, certain institutional investors, investment funds and other influential investors have been increasingly focused on ESG practices and in recent years have placed increasing importance on the non-financial impacts of their investments. Topics taken into account in such assessments include, among others, the company’s efforts and impacts on climate change and human rights, ethics and compliance with law and the role of the Company’s board of directors in supervising various sustainability issues. In addition, in recent years, “anti-ESG” sentiment has gained momentum across the U.S., with several states and Congress having proposed or enacted “anti-ESG” policies, legislation, or initiatives, and the President having recently issued an executive order opposing diversity equity and inclusion (“DEI”) initiatives in the private sector. Institutional investors and proxy advisory firms have also updated their guidelines and expectations with respect to ESG and DEI initiatives. Such anti-ESG and anti-DEI-related policies, legislation, initiatives, litigation, and scrutiny could result in us facing additional compliance obligations, becoming the subject of investigations and enforcement actions, or sustaining reputational harm. In light of investors’ and other stakeholders’ increased focus on ESG matters, there can be no certainty that we will manage such issues successfully, or that we will successfully meet our investors’ or society’s ESG expectations. While our mission is to promote healthy aging, if our ESG practices do not meet investor or other industry stakeholder expectations, which continue to evolve, we may incur additional costs and our brand’s ability to attract and retain qualified employees and business may be harmed.

Previous wording

•We have a limited operating history in China and we face risks with respect to conducting business in connection with our joint venture in China due to certain legal, political, economic and social uncertainties relating to China.

Current wording

We have a limited operating history in China and our ability to develop successful channels in China will be subject to certain legal, political, economic and social uncertainties.

Previous wording

During fiscal year 2022, we entered into an agreement to form a joint venture to expand the Company’s market strategy to include opportunities in Mainland China and its territories, excluding Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan. Operating activity under the joint venture was not material during the year ended December 31, 2023. Our participation in the joint venture in China is subject to general, as well as industry-specific, economic, political and legal developments and risks in China. The Chinese government exercises significant control over the Chinese economy, including but not limited to, controlling capital investments, allocating resources, setting monetary policy, controlling and monitoring foreign exchange rates, implementing and overseeing tax regulations, providing preferential treatment to certain industry segments or companies and issuing necessary licenses to conduct business. In addition, we could face additional risks resulting from changes in China’s data privacy and cybersecurity requirements. Accordingly, any adverse change in the Chinese economy, the Chinese legal system or Chinese governmental, economic or other policies could have a material adverse effect on our joint venture in China and our prospects generally.

Current wording

We intend to seek partners and paths to expand our operations in China, but there is no guarantee that we will be able to do so. In 2022, we entered into an agreement to form a joint venture to expand our opportunities in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, but have effectively terminated the joint venture after we were unable to achieve Blue Hat Registration. Our ability to pursue successful expansion in China is subject to general, as well as industry-specific, economic, political and legal developments and risks in China. The Chinese government exercises significant control over the Chinese economy, including but not limited to, controlling capital investments, allocating resources, setting monetary policy, controlling and monitoring foreign exchange rates, implementing and overseeing tax regulations, providing preferential treatment to certain industry segments or companies and issuing necessary licenses to conduct business.

Previous wording

Our joint venture will be subject to laws and regulations applicable to foreign investment in China. There are uncertainties regarding the interpretation and enforcement of laws, rules and policies in China. Because many laws and regulations are relatively new, the interpretations of many laws, regulations and rules are not always uniform. Moreover, the interpretation of statutes and regulations may be subject to government policies reflecting domestic political agendas. Enforcement of existing laws or contracts based on existing law may be uncertain and sporadic. As a result of the foregoing, it may be difficult for us to obtain swift or equitable enforcement of laws ostensibly designed to protect companies like ours, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. There is no guarantee that we will be able to successfully launch our joint venture.

Current wording

Our operations, whether through a new joint venture or otherwise, will be subject to laws and regulations applicable to foreign investment in China. There are uncertainties regarding the interpretation and enforcement of laws, rules and policies in China. Because many laws and regulations are relatively new, the interpretations of many laws, regulations and rules are not always uniform. Moreover, the interpretation of statutes and regulations may be subject to government policies reflecting domestic political agendas. Enforcement of existing laws or contracts based on existing law may be uncertain and sporadic. As a result of the foregoing, it may be difficult for us to obtain swift or equitable enforcement of laws ostensibly designed to protect companies like ours, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (3)

Previous report — wording carried elsewhere

•We are currently engaged in substantial and complex litigation with Elysium Health, Inc. and Elysium Health LLC (collectively, “Elysium”), the outcome of which could materially harm our business and financial results.

Previous report — wording carried elsewhere

To the extent we are not the first to develop, offer and/or supply new products, customers may buy from our competitors or make materials themselves, causing our competitive position to suffer.

Previous report — wording carried elsewhere

We are currently engaged in substantial and complex litigation with Elysium Health, Inc. and Elysium Health LLC (collectively, "Elysium"), the outcome of which could materially harm our business and financial results.