Alset Inc.
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Mar 31, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout 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 31, 2025
Extracted filing text, with the paragraph anchors used by the comparison.
See the whole filing, with its images and exhibitsContents
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2024 and 2023
1. NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Nature of Operations
Alset Inc. (the “Company” or “AEI”), formerly known as Alset EHome International Inc. and HF Enterprises Inc., was incorporated in the State of Delaware on March 7, 2018 and 50 shares of common stock were issued to Chan Heng Fai, the founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. On October 4, 2022, through a merger transaction, the Company was reincorporated in Texas. AEI is a diversified holding company principally engaged through its subsidiaries in the development of EHome communities and other real estate, financial services, digital transformation technologies, biohealth activities and consumer products with operations in the United States, Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, South Korea, and the People’s Republic of China. The Company manages its principal businesses primarily through its subsidiary, Alset International Limited (“Alset International”), a company publicly traded on the Singapore Stock Exchange.
On November 24, 2020 the Company held its initial public offering and the Company’s common stock began trading on Nasdaq Capital Market. As a result,108,000 shares were issued to public investors. The Company’s net proceeds from this offering were approximately $13.2 million.
On May 13, 2021, July 30, 2021, December 8, 2021, and February 8, 2023 the Company held follow up offerings of its common shares. As a result of the offerings, the Company issued a total of 5,101,897 shares to public investors. The Company’s net proceeds from these offerings were approximately $108 million.
On June 14, 2023, the Company’s subsidiary completed acquisition of Hapi Travel Limited (“HTL”), an online travel business started in Hong Kong and under common control of the Company. The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the operations of the acquired entity from its acquisition date. The acquisition has been accounted for as a business combination. Accordingly, consideration paid by the Company to complete the acquisition is initially allocated to the acquired assets and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values on the acquisition date. The recorded amounts for assets acquired and liabilities assumed are provisional and subject to change during the measurement period, which is up to 12 months from the acquisition date. As a result of the acquisition of HTL, a deemed dividend of $214,174 was generated as a result of the business combination, which represents the purchase price of $214,993 in excess of identifiable equity. On December 17, 2024, this company was sold to HapiTravel Holding Pte. Ltd. for a consideration of $82,635 with $257,733 gain recognized for the deal. The disposal of HTL had immaterial impact on the Company’s financial statements.
| ● | The acquisition of HTL was accounted for prospectively as of June 14, 2023 as this did not represent a change in reporting entity. |
| ● | The acquisition of HTL was under common control and was consolidated in accordance with ASC 850-50. The consolidated financial statements were not retrospectively adjusted for the acquisition of HTL as of January 1, 2023 for comparative purposes because the historical operations of HTL were deemed to be immaterial to the Company’s consolidated financial statements. |
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the total outstanding common shares of the Company were 9,235,119.
The Company has four operating segments based on the products and services we offer, which include three of our principal businesses – real estate, digital transformation technology and biohealth – as well as a fourth category consisting of certain other business activities.
Real Estate
The Company’s real estate segment is comprised of LiquidValue Development Inc. (“LiquidValue Development”) and American Home REIT Inc. (“AHR”).
In 2014, Alset International commenced operations developing property projects and participating in third-party property development projects. LiquidValue Development Inc., a 99.9%-owned subsidiary of Alset International, owns, operates and manages real estate development projects with a focus on land subdivision developments and home rental projects.
Development activities are generally contracted out, including planning, design and construction, as well as other work with engineers, surveyors, architects and general contractors. The developed lots are then sold to builders for the construction of new homes. LiquidValue Development’s primary real estate project is a subdivision development project near Houston, Texas, known as Lakes at Black Oak.
Through 2022, the Company, mostly through AHR, purchased from builders 132 homes in different communities in Texas. The Company rents these homes to tenants. The Company pursued this new endeavor in part to improve cash flow and smooth out the inconsistencies of income in residential land development. In 2023 and 2024 AHR was the owner of most of our single-family rental homes.
Digital Transformation Technology
The Company’s digital transformation technology segment is comprised of Hapi Metaverse Inc. and its subsidiaries. The Company’s digital transformation technology business is involved in mobile application, product development and other businesses, providing information technology services to end-users, service providers and other commercial users through multiple platforms. This technology platform consists of instant messaging systems, social media, e-commerce and payment systems, direct marketing platforms, e-real estate, brand protection and counterfeit and fraud detection. Hapi Metaverse Inc. (“Hapi Metaverse”), our 99.7%-owned subsidiary, focuses on business-to-business solutions such as enterprise messaging and workflow. Through Hapi Metaverse, the Company has successfully implemented several strategic platform developments for clients, including a mobile front-end solution for network marketing, a hotel e-commerce platform for Asia and a real estate agent management platform in China.
Biohealth
The Company’s biohealth segment is comprised of HWH International Inc. and its subsidiaries and is committed to both funding research and developing and selling products that promote a healthy lifestyle.
In October 2019, the Company expanded its biohealth segment into the Korean market through one of the subsidiaries of HWH International Inc., HWH World Inc (“HWH World”). HWH World is in the business of sourcing and distributing dietary supplements and other health products through its network of members in the Republic of Korea. HWH World generates product sales via its direct sale model as products are sold to its members. Through the use of a Hapi Gig platform that combines e-commerce, social media and a customized rewards system, HWH Korea equips, trains and empowers its members. We compete with numerous direct sales companies in South Korea. HWH World recognized $0 and $12,758 in revenue in the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the deferred revenue from biohealth segment was $0 and $0, respectively.
The Company hold 39.7% ownership in Impact BioMedical Inc. (“Impact BioMedical”). Impact BioMedical is focused on discovery, development, and commercialization of products and technologies to address unmet needs in human healthcare and wellness for specialty biopharmaceuticals, antivirals, antimicrobials, consumer healthcare, and wellness products in the United States.
Other Business Activities
In addition to the segments identified above, the Company provides corporate strategy and business development services, food and beverage services, asset management services, corporate restructuring and leveraged buy-out expertise. These service offerings build relationships with promising companies for potential future collaboration and expansion. We believe that our other business activities complement our three principal businesses.
The Company’s other business activities segment is primarily comprised of Alset International, SeD Capital Pte. Ltd., BMI Capital Partners International Limited, Singapore Construction & Development Pte. Ltd. and food and beverage part of HWH International Inc.
The Company, through Alset F&B One Pte. Ltd. (“Alset F&B One”) and Alset F&B (PLQ) Pte. Ltd. (“Alset F&B PLQ”) each acquired a restaurant franchise licenses at the end of 2021 and 2022, respectively, both of which have since commenced operations. These licenses will allow Alset F&B One and Alset F&B PLQ each to operate a Killiney Kopitiam restaurant in Singapore. Killiney Kopitiam, founded in 1919, is a Singapore-based chain of mass-market, traditional kopitiam style service cafes selling traditional coffee and tea, along with a range of local delicacies such as Curry Chicken, Laksa, Mee Siam, and Mee Rebus.
The Company, through Hapi Café Inc. (“HCI-T”), commenced operation of two cafés during 2022 and 2021, which are located in Singapore and South Korea.
The cafes are operated by subsidiaries of HCI-T, namely Hapi Café SG Pte. Limited (“HCSG”) in Singapore and Hapi Café Korea Inc. (“HCKI”) in Seoul, South Korea. Hapi Cafes are distinctive lifestyle café outlets that strive to revolutionize the way individuals dine, work, and live, by providing a conducive environment for everyone to relish the four facets – health and wellness, fitness, productivity, and recreation all under one roof.
In 2023, the Company incorporated new subsidiaries Guangdong LeFu Wealth Investment Consulting Co., Ltd. (f.k.a. Shenzhen Leyouyou Catering Management Co., Ltd.) and Dongguan Leyouyou Catering Management Co., Ltd. in the People’s Republic of China. These companies will be principally engaged in the food and beverage business in Mainland China.
Additionally, through its subsidiary Hapi Group HK Limited (f.k.a. MOC HK Limited), the Company is focusing on operating café business in Hong Kong. This business was acquired on October 5, 2022. During the acquisition, a goodwill of $60,343 had been generated for the Company. The café was closed on September 16, 2024 and the goodwill was impaired during the year ended December 31, 2024.
In the second quarter of 2024, the Company ceased operations of its subsidiary Alset F&B (PLQ) Pte. Ltd. Due to the closure of this subsidiary the Company wrote off $5,820 of fixed assets, which is included in general and administrative expenses and recorded a gain on termination of lease of $246, which is included in other income on the Company’s Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2024.
In addition to above, the Company operates a portfolio of trading securities with the objective of generating profits from short-term fluctuations in market prices. The portfolio is actively managed, and securities are bought and sold with the intent to realize gains from price movements within a short-term horizon.
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation
The Company’s consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) and following the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).
The consolidated financial statements include all accounts of the Company and its majority owned and controlled subsidiaries. The Company consolidates entities in which it owns more than 50% of the voting common stock and controls operations. All intercompany transactions and balances among consolidated subsidiaries have been eliminated.
The Company’s consolidated financial statements include the financial positions, results of operations and cash flows of the following entities as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, as follows:
| Attributable interest | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| State or other jurisdiction of · as of, | |||
| Name of subsidiary consolidated under AEI | incorporation or organization | December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2023 |
| % · % | |||
| Alset Global Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 100 | 100 |
| Alset Business Development Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 100 | 100 |
| Global eHealth Limited | Hong Kong | 100 | 100 |
| Alset International Limited | Singapore | 85.7 | 85.5 |
| Singapore Construction & Development Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 85.7 | 85.5 |
| Singapore Construction Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 85.7 | 85.5 |
| Global BioMedical Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 85.7 | 85.5 |
| Health Wealth Happiness Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 81.1 | 74.6 |
| SeD Capital Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 85.7 | 85.5 |
| LiquidValue Asset Management Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 85.7 | 85.5 |
| Alset Solar Limited | Hong Kong | 85.7 | 85.5 |
| Alset F&B One Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 73.0 | 67.1 |
| BMI Capital Partners International Limited | Hong Kong | 85.7 | 85.5 |
| SeD Perth Pty Ltd | Australia | 85.7 | 85.5 |
| SeD Intelligent Home Inc. | United States of America | 85.7 | 85.5 |
| LiquidValue Development Inc. | United States of America | 85.7 | 85.4 |
| Alset EHome Inc. | United States of America | 85.7 | 85.4 |
| SeD USA, LLC | United States of America | 85.7 | 85.4 |
| 150 Black Oak GP, Inc. | United States of America | 85.7 | 85.4 |
| SeD Development USA Inc. | United States of America | 85.7 | 85.4 |
| 150 CCM Black Oak, Ltd. | United States of America | 85.7 | 85.4 |
| SeD Texas Home, LLC | United States of America | 100 | 100 |
| SeD Ballenger, LLC | United States of America | 85.7 | 85.4 |
| SeD Maryland Development, LLC | United States of America | 71.6 | 71.4 |
| SeD Development Management, LLC | United States of America | 72.8 | 72.6 |
| SeD Builder, LLC | United States of America | - | 85.4 |
| Hapi Metaverse Inc. (f.k.a. GigWorld Inc.) | United States of America | 99.6 | 99.6 |
| HotApp BlockChain Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 99.6 | 99.6 |
| HotApp International Limited | Hong Kong | 99.6 | 99.6 |
| SeD REIT Inc. | United States of America | - | 85.4 |
| HWH World Inc. | United States of America | - | 74.6 |
| HWH World Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 81.1 | 74.6 |
| UBeauty Limited | Hong Kong | 85.7 | 85.5 |
| HWH World Limited | Hong Kong | 81.1 | 74.6 |
| HWH World Inc. | South Korea | 81.1 | 74.6 |
| Alset Energy Inc. | United States of America | - | 85.5 |
| BioHealth Water Inc. | United States of America | 85.7 | 85.5 |
| Hapi Robot Pte. Ltd. (f.k.a. Impact BioHealth Pte. Ltd.) | Singapore | 85.7 | 85.5 |
| American Home REIT Inc. | United States of America | 100 | 100 |
| Alset Solar Inc. | United States of America | - | 68.3 |
| HWH KOR Inc. | United States of America | - | 74.6 |
| Alset Capital Inc. (f.k.a. OpenBiz Inc.) | United States of America | - | 100 |
| Hapi Cafe Inc. | Texas, United States of America | 81.1 | 74.6 |
| HWH (S) Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 85.7 | 85.5 |
| LiquidValue Development Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 100 | 100 |
| LiquidValue Development Limited | Hong Kong | 100 | 100 |
| Alset F&B Holdings Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 81.1 | 74.6 |
| Credas Capital Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 64.2 | 64.1 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credas Capital GmbH | Switzerland | 64.2 | 64.1 | |
| Smart Reward Express Limited | Hong Kong | 49.8 | * | 74.1 |
| AHR Texas Two, LLC | United States of America | 100 | 100 | |
| AHR Black Oak One, LLC | United States of America | 85.7 | 85.4 | |
| AHR Texas Three, LLC | United States of America | 100 | 100 | |
| Hapi Cafe Korea Inc. | South Korea | 81.1 | 74.6 | |
| Alset Management Group Inc. | United States of America | - | 77.0 | |
| Alset Acquisition Sponsor, LLC | United States of America | 93.5 | 93.5 | |
| HWH International Inc. (f.k.a. Alset Capital Acquisition Corp.) | Delaware, United States of America | 81.1 | 53.7 | |
| Alset Spac Group Inc. | United States of America | 93.5 | 93.5 | |
| Hapi Travel Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 81.1 | 74.6 | |
| Hapi WealthBuilder Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 81.1 | 74.6 | |
| Alset eVehicle Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | - | 85.5 | |
| Hapi iRobot Pte. Ltd. (f.k.a. Hapi Marketplace Pte. Ltd.) (f.k.a. HWH Marketplace Pte. Ltd.) | Singapore | 81.1 | 74.6 | |
| HWH International Inc. | Nevada, United States of America | 81.1 | 74.6 | |
| Hapi Cafe SG Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 81.1 | 74.6 | |
| Alset Reits Inc. | United States of America | - | 100 | |
| HWH Merger Sub, Inc. | United States of America | - | 53.7 | |
| Hapi Metaverse Inc. | Texas, United States of America | - | 99.6 | |
| Hapi Cafe Limited | Hong Kong | 99.6 | 99.6 | |
| Hapi Group HK Limited (f.k.a. MOC HK Limited) | Hong Kong | 99.6 | 99.6 | |
| AHR Texas Four, LLC | United States of America | 100 | 100 | |
| Alset F&B (PLQ) Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | - | 74.6 | |
| NewRetail-AI Inc. | United States of America | - | 99.6 | |
| Hapi Robot Service Pte. Ltd. (f.k.a. Hapi Acquisition Pte. Ltd.) | Singapore | 99.6 | 99.6 | |
| Hapi Travel Limited | Hong Kong | - | 99.6 | |
| Guangdong LeFu Wealth Investment Consulting Co., Ltd. (f.k.a. Shenzhen Leyouyou Catering Management Co., Ltd.) | China | 99.6 | 99.6 | |
| Dongguan Leyouyou Catering Management Co., Ltd. | China | 99.6 | 99.6 | |
| GuangZhou Leyouyou Catering Management Co., Ltd | China | 99.6 | 99.6 | |
| Robot Ai Trade Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 85.7 | 85.5 | |
| Ketomei Pte. Ltd. | Singapore | 39.7 | * | - |
| Hapi MarketPlace Inc. | United States of America | 81.1 | - | |
| Hapi Café Co., Ltd. | Taiwan | 99.6 | - | |
| Hapi Home Inc. | United States of America | 81.1 | - | |
| Hapi Robot Inc. | United States of America | 72.3 | - |
| * | Although the Company indirectly holds percentage of shares of these entities less than 50%, the subsidiaries of the Company directly hold more than 50% of shares of these entities, and therefore, they are still consolidated into the Company. |
|---|
During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company disposed of few subsidiaries which had no or very minimal activities. The disposal of these entities had immaterial effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Significant estimates made by management include, but are not limited to, allowance for doubtful accounts, valuation of real estate assets, allocation of development costs and capitalized interest to sold lots, fair value of the investments, the valuation allowance of deferred taxes, and contingencies. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
In our property development business, land acquisition costs are allocated to each lot based on the area method, the size of the lot compared to the total size of all lots in the project. Development costs and capitalized interest are allocated to lots sold based on the total expected development and interest costs of the completed project and allocating a percentage of those costs based on the selling price of the sold lot compared to the expected sales values of all lots in the project.
If allocation of development costs and capitalized interest based on the projection and relative expected sales value is impracticable, those costs would be allocated based on area method.
When the Company purchases properties but does not receive the assessment information from the county, the Company allocates the values between land and building based on the data of similar properties. The Company makes appropriate adjustments once the assessment from the county is received. At the same time, any necessary adjustments to depreciation expense are made in the income statement. On December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company adjusted $0 and $951,349 between building and land, respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company adjusted depreciation expenses of $0 and $17,525, respectively.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at the date of acquisition to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and at the bank and short-term deposits with financial institutions that are readily convertible to a known amount of cash and are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in values.
Restricted Cash
As a condition to the loan agreement with the Manufacturers and Traders Trust Company (“M&T Bank”), the Company was required to maintain a minimum of $2,600,000 in an interest-bearing account maintained by the lender as additional security for the loans. The fund was required to remain as collateral for the loan and outstanding letters of credit until the loan and letters of credit are paid off in full and the loan agreement is terminated. The loan has expired during 2022 and only letters of credit were outstanding as of December 31, 2024 and 2023. On March 15, 2022 approximately $2,300,000 was released from collateral. On December 14, 2023 additional $201,751 was released from collateral. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the total balance of this account was $107,874 and $107,767, respectively.
The Company puts funds into a brokerage account specifically for equity investment. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the cash balance in that brokerage account was $832,065 and $859,799, respectively.
Investments Held in Trust Account
At December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company had approximately $0 and $21.0 million, respectively, in investments in treasury securities held in the Trust Account. The funds in the Trust Account were subject to redemption by investors of HWH International Inc. (formerly known as Alset Capital Acquisition Corp.)The funds in Trust Account were valued at Level 1 observable input.
Account Receivables and Allowance for Credit Losses
Account receivables is recorded at invoiced amounts net of an allowance for credit losses and do not bear interest. The allowance for credit losses is the Company’s best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in the Company’s existing accounts receivable. The measurement and recognition of credit losses involves the use of judgment. Management’s assessment of expected credit losses includes consideration of current and expected economic conditions, market and industry factors affecting the Company’s customers (including their financial condition), the aging of account balances, historical credit loss experience, customer concentrations, customer creditworthiness, and the existence of sources of payment. The Company also establishes an allowance for credit losses for specific receivables when it is probable that the receivable will not be collected and the loss can be reasonably estimated. Account receivables considered uncollectible are charged against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the allowance for credit losses was an immaterial amount. The Company does not have any off-balance sheet credit exposure related to its customers. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the balance of account receivables was $75,646 and $77,517, respectively.
Other Receivables and Allowance for Credit Losses
Other receivables include developer reimbursements for Lakes at Black Oak and Alset Villas projects. The Company records an allowance for credit losses based on previous collection experiences, the creditability of the organizations that are supposed to reimburse us, the forecasts from the third-party engineering company and Moody’s credit ratings. The allowance amount for these reimbursements was immaterial at December 31, 2024 and 2023.
On January 9, 2024, the Company sold 320,000 shares of HWH International Inc. (“HWH”) to two investors (160,000 shares to each). The consideration for each of the two purchases of stock was $8,000,000, which was paid through the issuance of promissory notes at the purchase price of $50 per share. These promissory notes carry interest of 1.5% and have maturity datestwo years from the date of the notes. Each investor also entered into a Security Agreement. Security interest in the brokerage account into which each investor deposited the Shares (the “Collateral”) shall in each case serve as security for the Company’s repayment of their respective promissory notes, and repossession of such Collateral by the Company shall be the sole recourse for non-payment. On December 31, 2024, HWH’s stock price was $0.64. The Company does not expect that investors will repay the promissory notes when due, as the value of the shares is significantly lower than the original purchase price of $50 per share. The Company expects that all the shares will be returned to the Company at the notes’ maturity date and the notes will be canceled as well. Accordingly, the Company has not recognized the receivable or any gain or loss related to the transaction.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out method and includes all costs in bringing the inventories to their present location and condition. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less the estimated costs necessary to make the sale. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, inventory consisted of finished goods from subsidiaries of HWH International Inc. and Hapi Metaverse Inc. The Company continuously evaluates the need for reserve for obsolescence and possible price concessions required to write-down inventories to net realizable value.
Investment Securities
Investment Securities at Fair Value
The Company commonly holds investments in equity securities with readily determinable fair values, equity investments without readily determinable fair values, investments accounted for under the equity method, and investments at cost. Certain of the Company’s investments in marketable equity securities and other securities are long-term, strategic investments in companies that are in various stages of development.
The Company accounts for certain of its investments in equity securities in accordance with ASU 2016-01Financial Instruments—Overall (Subtopic 825- 10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“ASU 2016-01”). In accordance with ASU 2016-01, the Company records all equity investments with readily determinable fair values at fair value calculated by the publicly traded stock price at the close of the reporting period. Amarantus BioScience Holdings (“AMBS”) is a publicly traded company. The Company does not have significant influence over AMBS as the Company holds approximately 4.3% of the common shares of AMBS. The stock fair value is determined by quoted stock prices.
On April 12, 2021, the Company acquired 6,500,000 common shares of Value Exchange International, Inc. (“Value Exchange International” or “VEII”), an OTC listed company, for an aggregate subscription price of $650,000. On October 17, 2022 the Company purchased additional 7,276,163 common shares of VEII for an aggregate purchase price of $1,743,734. On September 6, 2023, the Company converted $1,300,000 of VEII loan into 7,344,632 common shares. After these transactions, the Company owns approximately 48.7% of VEII and exercises significant influence over it. Our Chief Executive Officer, Chan Heng Fai, is also an owner of the common stock of VEII (not including any common shares we hold). Additionally, certain members of our board of directors serve as directors of Value Exchange International. The stock’s fair value is determined by quoted stock prices.
On January 27, 2023, the Company and New Electric CV Corporation (together with the Company, the “Lenders”) entered into a Convertible Credit Agreement (the “First Credit Agreement”) with VEII. The First Credit Agreement provides VEII with a maximum credit line of $1,500,000 with simple interest accrued on any advances of the money under the First Credit Agreement at 8%. The First Credit Agreement grants conversion rights to each Lender. Each Advance shall be convertible, in whole or in part, into shares of VEII’s Common Stock at the option of the Lender who made that Advance (being referred to as a “Conversion”), at any time and from time to time, at a price per share equal the “Conversion Price”. In the event that a Lender elects to convert any portion of an Advance into shares of VEII Common Stock in lieu of cash payment in satisfaction of that Advance, then VEII would issue to the Lender five (5) detachable warrants for each share of VEII’s Common Stock issued in a Conversion (“Warrants”). Each Warrant will entitle the Lender to purchase one (1) share of Common Stock at a per-share exercise price equal to the Conversion Price. The exercise period of each Warrant will be five (5) years from date of issuance of the Warrant. On February 23, 2023, the Company’s subsidiary Hapi Metaverse Inc. loaned VEII $1,400,000 (the “Loan Amount”). The Loan Amount can be converted into shares of VEII pursuant to the terms of the First Credit Agreement for a period of three years. There is no fixed price for the derivative security until Hapi Metaverse converts the Loan Amount into shares of VEII Common Stock.
On September 6, 2023, the Company converted $1,300,000 of the principal amount loaned to VEII into 7,344,632 shares of VEII’s Common Stock. Under the terms of the First Credit Agreement, Hapi Metaverse received Warrants to purchase a maximum of 36,723,160 shares of VEII’s Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.1770 per share. Such warrants expire five (5) years from date of their issuance.
On December 14, 2023, Hapi Metaverse entered into a Convertible Credit Agreement (“Second Credit Agreement”) with VEII. On December 15, 2023, the Company loaned VEII $1,000,000. The Second Credit Agreement was amended pursuant to an agreement dated December 19, 2023. Under the Second Credit Agreement, as amended, this amount can be converted into VEII’s Common Shares pursuant to the terms of the Second Credit Agreement for a period of three years. In the event that Hapi Metaverse converts this loan into shares of VEII’s Common Stock, the conversion price shall be $0.045 per share. In the event that Hapi Metaverse elects to convert any portion of the loan into shares of VEII’s Common Stock in lieu of cash payment in satisfaction of that loan, then VEII will issue to Hapi Metaverse five (5) detachable warrants for each share of VEII’s Common Stock issued in a conversion (“Warrants”). Each Warrant will entitle the Company to purchase one (1) share of VEII’s Common Stock at a per-share exercise price equal to the Conversion Price. The exercise period of each Warrant will be five (5) years from date of issuance of the Warrant. At the time of this filing, the Company has not converted the Loan Amount.
Our Chairman, Chan Heng Fai and a member of the Board of Directors of Hapi Metaverse, Lum Kan Fai Vincent, are both members of the Board of Directors of VEII. In addition to Mr. Chan, three other members of the Board of Directors of Alset Inc. are also members of the Board of Directors of VEII (Wong Shui Yeung, Wong Tat Keung and Lim Sheng Hon, Danny). The Company currently owns a total of 21,179,275 shares (representing approximately 48.55%) of VEII.
The Company has a portfolio of trading securities. The objective is to generate profits on short-term differences in market prices. The Company does not have significant influence over any trading securities in our portfolio and fair value of these trading securities are determined by quoted stock prices.
The Company has elected the fair value option for the equity securities noted below that would otherwise be accounted for under the equity method of accounting. DSS Inc., American Premium Water Corporation (“APW”, d.b.a. New Electric CV Corporation, “NECV”), Value Exchange International Inc., Sharing Services Global Corp. (“SHRG”) and Impact Biomedical Inc. (“Impact”) are publicly traded companies and fair value is determined by quoted stock prices. The Company has significant influence but does not have a controlling interest in these investments, and therefore, the Company’s investment could be accounted for under the equity method of accounting or under fair value accounting.
The Company has significant influence over DSS as we owned approximately 48.9% of the common stock of DSS as of December 31, 2024, and our Chief Executive Officer, Chan Heng Fai, is an owner of additional common stock of DSS (not including any common or preferred shares we hold). In addition, our Chief Executive Officer is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of DSS. Apart from Chan Heng Fai, two other members of the Board of Directors of Alset Inc. are also members of the Board of Directors of DSS (Chan Tung Moe, our Co-Chief Executive Officer and a son of Chan Heng Fai, and Lim Sheng Hon, Danny). The Company did not have a controlling interest and therefore the Company’s investment would be accounted for under equity method accounting or we could elect the fair value option accounting.
The Company has significant influence over APW as the Company holds approximately 0.5% of the common shares of APW. Additionally, our Chief Executive Officer, Chan Heng Fai, is the majority owner of the common stock of APW (not including any common shares we hold). The Company did not have a controlling interest and therefore the Company’s investment would be accounted for under equity method accounting or we could elect the fair value option accounting.
The Company has significant influence over SHRG as the Company holds approximately 29.0% of the common shares of SHRG, our Chief Executive Officer holds a director and chairman position on SHRG’s Board of Directors and three of the directors of the Company are the directors of SHRG. Additionally, our Chief Executive Officer is a significant stockholder of SHRG shares.
On August 8, 2023, DSS Inc. distributed shares of Impact Biomedical Inc., beneficially held by DSS, in the form of a dividend to the shareholders of DSS common stock. As a result of this distribution, the Company and its majority owned subsidiaries received 4,568,165 shares of Impact, representing 39.7% of the issued and outstanding shares of Impact’s common stock. Each share of Impact distributed as part of the distribution is not eligible for resale until 180 days from the date Impact’s initial public offering becomes effective under the Securities Act, subject to the discretion of DSS to lift the restriction sooner. On September 17, 2024, Impact completed its Initial Public Offering and its shares started to trade on New York Stock Exchange. Based on the management’s analysis, the fair value of Impact shares was approximately $0 at the distribution date and December 31, 2023. The Company did not have a controlling interest and therefore the Company’s investment would be accounted for under equity method accounting or we could elect the fair value option accounting.
The Company has elected the fair value options for the equity securities noted above that would otherwise be accounted for under the equity method of accounting to better match the measurement of assets and liabilities in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. DSS, VEII, SHRG and Impact are publicly traded companies and fair value of these equity investments is determined by the quoted stock prices. On December 31, 2024 and 2023, the fair value (calculated by market trading prices on the end dates of the periods) of total held equity stock of DSS, VEII, SHRG and Impact was $11,028,405 and $9,381,636, respectively.
On July 17, 2020, the Company purchased 122,039,000 shares, approximately 0.5% ownership, and 1,220,390,000 warrants with an exercise price of $0.0001 per share, from APW, for an aggregated purchase price of $122,039. We value APW warrants under level 3 category through a Black Scholes option pricing model and the fair value of the warrants from APW were $860,342 as of July 17, 2020, the purchase date and $973 and $430 as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
The changes in the fair values of the investment were recorded directly to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Due to the inherent uncertainty of these estimates, these values may differ materially from the values that would have been used had a ready market for these investments existed.
Investment Securities at Cost
Investments in equity securities without readily determinable fair values are measured at cost minus impairment adjusted by observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or a similar investment of the same issuer. These investments are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis when there are events or changes in circumstances that may have a significant adverse effect. An impairment loss is recognized in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income equal to the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the investment.
On September 8, 2020, the Company’s indirect subsidiary, Hapi Robot Pte. Ltd. (f.k.a. Impact Biohealth Pte. Ltd.) acquired 1,666 shares, approximately 1.45% ownership, from Nervotec Pte Ltd (“Nervotec”), a private company, at the purchase price of $36,628. The Company applied ASC 321 and measured Nervotec at cost, less any impairment, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for an identical or similar investment of the same issuer. As of December 31, 2024, the value of the investment in Nervotec is $589, as the Company wrote off $37,287 of this investment.
On September 30, 2020, the Company’s former indirect subsidiary, HWH Global Inc. (f.k.a. HWH International Inc.) acquired 3,800 shares, approximately 19% ownership, from HWH World Company Limited (f.k.a. Hyten Global (Thailand) Co., Ltd.) (“HWH World Co.”), a private company, at a purchase price of $42,562. HWH Global Inc. was sold on December 31, 2023.
On May 31, 2021, the Company’s indirect subsidiary, UBeauty Limited, invested $19,609 in K Beauty Research Lab Co., Ltd (“K Beauty”) for 18% ownership. K Beauty was established for sourcing, developing and producing variety of Korea-made beauty products as well as Korea - originated beauty contents for the purpose of distribution to HWH’s membership distribution channel.
On March 14, 2024, the Company entered into shares subscription agreement to subscription of shares in Ideal Food & Beverage Pte. Ltd. (“IFBPL”) with the subscription of 19,000 shares, constituting 19% of the shares of IFBPL. The subscription fee of $14,010 was paid to IFBPL on May 23, 2024. The Company impaired this investment of $14,010 and total impairment expenses were $14,205 due to net liabilities of IFBPL as of December 31, 2024.
On April 25, 2024, the Company entered into a binding term sheet (the “Term Sheet”) through its subsidiary Health Wealth Happiness Pte Ltd. (“HWHPL”) outlining a joint venture with Chen Ziping, an experienced entrepreneur in the travel industry, and Chan Heng Fai, the Company’s Executive Chairman, as a part of the Company’s strategy of building its travel business in Asia. The joint venture company (referred to here as the “JVC”) is known as HapiTravel Holding Pte. Ltd. The JVC was incorporated in July 2024 and is owned by:(a) HWHPL will hold 19% of the shares in the JVC; (b) Chan Heng Fai will hold 11%; and (c) the remaining 70% of the shares in the JVC are to be held by Chen Ziping.
There has been no indication of impairment or changes in observable prices via transactions of similar securities and is still carried at a cost.
Investment Securities under Equity Method Accounting
The Company accounts for equity investments in certain entities with significant influence under equity-method accounting. Under this method, the Group’s pro rata share of income (loss) from investment is recognized in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Dividends received reduce the carrying amount of the investment. When the Company’s share of loss in an equity-method investee equals or exceeds its carrying value of the investment in that entity, the equity method investment can be reduced below zero based on losses if the Company either be liable for the obligations of the investee or provide for losses in excess of the investment when imminent return to profitable operations by the investee appears to be assured. Otherwise, the Company does not recognize its share of equity method losses exceeding its carrying amount of the investment. Equity-method investment is reviewed for impairment by assessing if the decline in market value of the investment below the carrying value is other-than-temporary. In making this determination, factors are evaluated in determining whether a loss in value should be recognized. These include consideration of the intent and ability of the Group to hold investment and the ability of the investee to sustain an earnings capacity, justifying the carrying amount of the investment. Impairment losses are recognized in other expense when a decline in value is deemed to be other-than-temporary.
American Medical REIT Inc.
LiquidValue Asset Management Pte. Ltd. (“LiquidValue”), a subsidiary of the Company owns 16.4% of American Medical REIT Inc. (“AMRE”), a company concentrating on medical real estate. AMRE acquires state-of-the-art, purpose-built healthcare facilities and leases them to leading clinical operators with dominant market share under secure triple net leases. AMRE targets hospitals (both Critical Access and Specialty Surgical), Physician Group Practices, Ambulatory Surgical Centers, and other licensed medical treatment facilities. Chan Heng Fai, our CEO, is the executive chairman and director of AMRE. DSS, of which we own 48.9% and have significant influence over, owns 80.4% of AMRE. Therefore, the Company has significant influence on AMRE.
American Pacific Financial, Inc.
Pursuant to Securities Purchase Agreement from March 12, 2021 the Company purchased 4,775,523 shares of the common stock of American Pacific Financial Inc., formerly known as American Pacific Bancorp, Inc. (“APF”) and gained majority ownership in that entity. APF was consolidated into the Company under common control accounting. On September 8, 2021 APF sold 6,666,700 shares Series A Common Stock to DSS, Inc. for $40,000,200 cash. As a result of the new share issuances, the Company’s ownership percentage of APF fell below 50% to 41.3% (and subsequently to 36.9%) and the entity was deconsolidated in accordance with ASC 810-10. Upon deconsolidation the Company elected to apply the equity method accounting as the Company still retained significant influence. During the year ended December 31, 2024 the investment loss was $3,205,094. During the year ended December 31, 2023 the investment loss was $24,241,856. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the investment in APF was $4,221,296 and $7,426,390, respectively.
Ketomei Pte Ltd
On June 10, 2021 the Company’s indirect subsidiary Hapi Café Inc. lent $76,723 to Ketomei Pte. Ltd. (“Ketomei”). On March 21, 2022 HCI-T entered into an agreement pursuant to which the principal of the loan together with accrued interest were converted into an investment in Ketomei. At the same time, Hapi Cafe invested an additional $179,595 in Ketomei. After the conversion and fund investment HCI-T held 28% of Ketomei as of December 31, 2023. Ketomei is in the business of selling cooked food and drinks through a subscription model. At December 31, 2023, the Company wrote off the investment in Ketomei of $121,471, as the Company did not believe it was be able to recover this investment. On February 20, 2024, Hapi Cafe invested $312,064 for an additional 38.41% ownership interest in Ketomei by converting $312,064 of convertible loan. The loan was impaired at the year ended of December 31, 2023, therefore, $312,064 was transferred from impairment of convertible loan to impairment of equity method investment. After this additional investment, Hapi Cafe owns 55.65% (the Company owns indirectly 45.5%) of Ketomei’s outstanding shares and Ketomei is consolidated into the financial statements of the Company beginning on February 20, 2024.
Sentinel Brokers Company Inc.
On May 22, 2023 the Company’s indirect subsidiary, SeD Capital Pte Ltd (“SeD Capital”), entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement, pursuant to which SeD Capital purchased 39.8 shares (10.4%) of the Common Stock of Sentinel Brokers Company Inc. (“Sentinel”) for the aggregate purchase price of $279,719. Sentinel is a broker-dealer operating primarily as a fiduciary intermediary, facilitating institutional trading of municipal and corporate bonds as well as preferred stock, and is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (“FINRA”), and is a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (“SIPC”). The Company has significant influence over Sentinel as our CEO holds a director position on Sentinel’s Board of Directors. Additionally, DSS, of which we own 48.9% and have significant influence over, owns 80.1% of Sentinel. During the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, the investment loss in Sentinel was $15,013 and $154,956, respectively. Investment in Sentinel was $109,750 and $124,763 at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Investment in Debt Securities
Debt securities are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses (other than impairment losses) recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income or loss. Realized gains and losses on debt securities are recognized in the net income in the condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income. The Company monitors its investments for other-than-temporary impairment by considering factors including, but not limited to, current economic and market conditions, the operating performance of the companies including current earnings trends and other company-specific information.
On February 26, 2021, the Company invested approximately $88,599 in the convertible note of Vector Com Co., Ltd (“Vector Com”), a private company in South Korea. The interest rate of this note was 2% per annum. The conversion price was approximately $21.26 per common share of Vector Com. As of December 31, 2023, the management estimated the fair value of the note to be $77,307. The Company wrote off this loan on March 31, 2024.
Variable Interest Entity
Under Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification (“ASC”) 810,Consolidation, when a reporting entity is the primary beneficiary of an entity that is a variable interest entity (“VIE”), as defined in ASC 810, the VIE must be consolidated into the financial statements of the reporting entity. The determination of which owner is the primary beneficiary of a VIE requires management to make significant estimates and judgments about the rights, obligations, and economic interests of each interest holder in the VIE.
The Company evaluates its interests in VIEs on an ongoing basis and consolidates any VIE in which it has a controlling financial interest and is deemed to be the primary beneficiary. A controlling financial interest has both of the following characteristics: (i) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact its economic performance; and (ii) the obligation to absorb losses of the VIE that could potentially be significant to it or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could be significant to the VIE.
The Company identified Smart Reward Express Limited as a VIE and consolidated it into its financial statements.
Real Estate Assets
Real estate assets are recorded at cost, except when real estate assets are acquired that meet the definition of a business combination in accordance with FASB ASC 805 -“Business Combinations”, which acquired assets are recorded at fair value. Interest, property taxes, insurance and other incremental costs (including salaries) directly related to a project are capitalized during the construction period of major facilities and land improvements. The capitalization period begins when activities to develop the parcel commence and ends when the asset constructed is completed. The capitalized costs are recorded as part of the asset to which they relate and are reduced when lots are sold.
The Company capitalized construction costs of approximately $0 and $1.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
The Company’s policy is to obtain an independent third-party valuation for each major project in the United States as part of our assessment of identifying potential triggering events for impairment. Management may use the market comparison method to value other relatively small projects. In addition to the annual assessment of potential triggering events in accordance with ASC 360 –Property Plant and Equipment (“ASC 360”), the Company applies a fair value-based impairment test to the net book value assets on an annual basis and on an interim basis if certain events or circumstances indicate that an impairment loss may have occurred.
The Company didnot record impairment on any of its projects during the years ended on December 31, 2024 and 2023.
Properties under development
Properties under development are properties being constructed for sale in the ordinary course of business, rather than to be held for the Company’s own use, rental or capital appreciation.
Rental Properties
Rental properties are acquired with the intent to be rented to tenants. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company owned 132 homes. The aggregate purchase cost of all the homes is $30,998,258. These homes are located in Montgomery and Harris Counties, Texas. All of these purchased homes are properties of our rental business.
Investments in Single-Family Residential Properties
The Company accounts for its investments in single-family residential properties as asset acquisitions and records these acquisitions at their purchase price. The purchase price is allocated between land, building, improvements and existing leases based upon their relative fair values at the date of acquisition. The purchase price for purposes of this allocation is inclusive of acquisition costs which typically include legal fees, title fees, property inspection and valuation fees, as well as other closing costs.
Building improvements and buildings are depreciated over estimated useful lives of approximately 10 to 27.5 years, respectively, using the straight-line method.
The Company assesses its investments in single-family residential properties for impairment whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that carrying amounts of the assets may not be fully recoverable. When such events occur, management determines whether there has been impairment by comparing the asset’s carrying value with its fair value. Should impairment exist, the asset is written down to its estimated fair value. The Company did not recognize any impairment losses during the years ended on December 31, 2024 and 2023.
Rental of Model Houses
In May 2023, the Company entered into a lease agreement for one of its model houses located in Montgomery County, Texas. The lease was terminated in February 2025. Management intends to procure a new, tenant to occupy the premises after the office used for real estate sales is converted back to a garage in the first quarter of 2025.
On July 14, 2023, 150 CCM Black Oak, Ltd. entered into a model home lease agreement with Davidson Homes, LLC (“Davidson”). On August 3, 2023, 150 CCM Black Oak, Ltd. entered into a development and construction agreement with Davidson Homes, LLC to build a model house located in Montgomery County, Texas. On January 4, 2024, 150 CCM Black Oak Ltd sent $220,076 to Davidson as reimbursement for final construction cost and the contractor’s fee. The model home lease commenced on January 1, 2024, lease term is twenty-four (24) full months and annual base rent equals to twelve percentage (12%) of the total of the final cost of construction and the contractor’s fee.
Revenue Recognition and Cost of Sales
ASC 606 -Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC 606”), establishes principles for reporting information about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from the entity’s contracts to provide goods or services to customers. The Company adopted this new standard on January 1, 2018 under the modified retrospective method. The adoption of this new standard did not have a material effect on our financial statements.
In accordance with ASC 606, revenue is recognized when a customer obtains control of promised goods or services. The amount of revenue recognized reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled to receive in exchange for these goods or services. The provisions of ASC 606 include a five-step process by which the determination of revenue recognition, depicting the transfer of goods or services to customers in amounts reflecting the payment to which the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. ASC 606 requires the Company to apply the following steps:
(1) identify the contract with the customer; (2) identify the performance obligations in the contract; (3) determine the transaction price; (4) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and (5) recognize revenue when, or as, performance obligations are satisfied.
The following represents the Company’s revenue recognition policies by Segments:
Real Estate
Property Sales
Part of the Company’s real estate business is land development. The Company purchases land and develops it for building into residential communities. The developed lots are sold to builders (customers) for the construction of new homes. The builders enter a sales contract with the Company before they take the lots. The prices and timeline are determined and agreed upon in the contract. The builders do the inspections to make sure all conditions and requirements in contracts are met before purchasing the lots. A detailed breakdown of the five-step process for the revenue recognition of the Lakes at Black Oak project, which represented approximately 79% and 82% of the Company’s revenue in the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, is as follows:
| ● | Identify the contract with a customer. |
The Company has signed agreements with the builders for developing the raw land to ready to build lots. The agreements have agreed upon prices, timelines, and specifications for what is to be provided.
| ● | Identify the performance obligations in the contract. |
Performance obligations of the Company include delivering developed lots to the customer, which are required to meet certain specifications that are outlined in the contract. The customer inspects all lots prior to accepting title to ensure all specifications are met.
| ● | Determine the transaction price. |
The transaction price per lot is fixed and specified in the contract. Any subsequent change orders or price changes are required to be approved by both parties.
| ● | Allocate the transaction price to performance obligations in the contract. |
Each lot or a group of lots is considered to be a separate performance obligation, for which the specified price in the contract is allocated to.
| ● | Recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. |
The builders do the inspections to make sure all conditions/requirements are met before taking title of lots. The Company recognizes revenue at a point in time when title is transferred. The Company does not have further performance obligations or continuing involvement once title is transferred. Revenue is recognized at a point in time.
Rental Revenue
The Company leases real estate properties to its tenants under leases that are predominately classified as operating leases, in accordance with ASC 842, Leases (“ASC 842”). Real estate rental revenue is comprised of minimum base rent and revenue from the collection of lease termination fees.
Rent from tenants is recorded in accordance with the terms of each lease agreement on a straight-line basis over the initial term of the lease. Rental revenue recognition begins when the tenant controls the space and continues through the term of the related lease. Generally, at the end of the lease term, the Company provides the tenant with a one-year renewal option, including mostly the same terms and conditions provided under the initial lease term, subject to rent increases.
The Company defers rental revenue related to lease payments received from tenants in advance of their due dates. These amounts are presented within deferred revenues and other payables on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.
Rental revenue is subject to an evaluation for collectability on several factors, including payment history, the financial strength of the tenant and any guarantors, historical operations and operating trends of the property, and current economic conditions. If our evaluation of these factors indicates that it is not probable that we will recover substantially all of the receivable, rental revenue is limited to the lesser of the rental revenue that would be recognized on a straight-line basis (as applicable) or the lease payments that have been collected from the lessee. Differences between rental revenue recognized and amounts contractually due under the lease agreements are credited or charged to straight-line rent receivable or straight-line rent liability, as applicable. In the year ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company did not recognize any deferred revenue and collected all rents due.
Cost of Revenue
| ● | Cost of Real Estate Sale |
All of the costs of real estate sales are from our land development business. Land acquisition costs are allocated to each lot based on the area method, the size of the lot comparing to the total size of all lots in the project. Development costs and capitalized interest are allocated to lots sold based on the total expected development and interest costs of the completed project and allocating a percentage of those costs based on the selling price of the sold lot compared to the expected sales values of all lots in the project.
If allocation of development costs and capitalized interest based on the projection and relative expected sales value is impracticable, those costs could also be allocated based on area method, the size of the lot comparing to the total size of all lots in the project.
| ● | Cost of Rental Revenue |
Cost of rental revenue consists primarily of the costs associated with management and leasing fees to our management company, repairs and maintenance, depreciation and other related administrative costs. Utility expenses are paid directly by tenants.
Biohealth
Product Direct Sales. The Company’s net sales consist of product sales. The Company’s performance obligation is to transfer ownership of its products to its members. The Company generally recognizes revenue when product is delivered to its members. Revenue is recorded net of applicable taxes, allowances, refund or returns. The Company receives the net sales price in cash or through credit card payments at the point of sale.
If any member returns a product to the Company on a timely basis, they may obtain a replacement product from the Company for such returned products. We do not have a buyback program. However, when a customer requests a return and management decides that the refund is necessary, we initiate the refund after deducting all the benefits that a member has earned. The returns are deducted from our sales revenue on our financial statements. Allowances for product and membership returns are provided at the time the sale is recorded. This accrual is based upon historical return rates for each country and the relevant return pattern, which reflects anticipated returns to be received over a period of up to 12 months following the original sale. Product and membership returns for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 were approximately $0 and $1,183, respectively.
Annual Membership. The Company collects an annual membership fee from its members. The fee is fixed, paid in full at the time upon joining the membership and is not refundable. The Company’s performance obligation is to provide its members the right to (a) purchase products from the Company, (b) access to certain back-office services, (c) receive commissions and (d) attend corporate events. The associated performance obligation is satisfied over time, generally over the term of the membership agreement which is for a one-year period. Before the membership fee is recognized as revenue, it is recorded as deferred revenue. Deferred revenue relating to membership was $0 and $0 at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Starting in 2020 the revenue from sale of membership declined to $0 in 2022. The Company is currently working on a new membership model.
Other Businesses
Food and Beverage. The Company, through Alset F&B One and Alset F&B PLQ each acquired a restaurant franchise licenses at the end of 2021 and 2022 respectively, both of which have since commenced operations. These licenses allow Alset F&B One and Alset F&B PLQ each to operate a Killiney Kopitiam restaurant in Singapore. Killiney Kopitiam, founded in 1919, is a Singapore-based chain of mass-market, traditional kopitiam style service cafes selling traditional coffee and tea, along with a range of local delicacies such as Curry Chicken, Laksa, Mee Siam, and Mee Rebus.
The Company, through HCI-T, commenced operation of two cafés during 2022 and 2021, which are located in Singapore and South Korea.
The cafes are operated by subsidiaries of HCI-T, namely HCSG in Singapore and HCKI in Seoul, South Korea. Hapi Cafes are distinctive lifestyle café outlets that strive to revolutionize the way individuals dine, work, and live, by providing a conducive environment for everyone to relish the four facets – health and wellness, fitness, productivity, and recreation all under one roof.
In 2023, the Company incorporated new subsidiaries Guangdong LeFu Wealth Investment Consulting Co., Ltd. (f.k.a. Shenzhen Leyouyou Catering Management Co. Ltd.) and Dongguan Leyouyou Catering Management Co., Ltd. in the People’s Republic of China. These companies will be principally engaged in the food and beverage business in Mainland China.
Additionally, through its subsidiary Hapi Group HK Limited (f.k.a. MOC HK Limited), the Company is focusing on operating café business in Hong Kong. This business was acquired on October 5, 2022. During the acquisition, a goodwill of $60,343 had been generated for the Company. The café was closed on September 16, 2024 and the goodwill was impaired during the year ended December 31, 2024.
In the second quarter of 2024, the Company ceased operations of its subsidiary Alset F&B (PLQ) Pte. Ltd. Due to the closure of this subsidiary, the Company wrote off $5,820 of fixed assets, which is included in general and administrative expenses and recorded a gain on termination of lease of $246, which is included in other income on the Company’s Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2024.
Remaining performance obligations. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, there were no remaining performance obligations or continuing involvement, as all service obligations within the other business activities segment have been completed.
Deferred Revenue
The Company recognizes deferred revenue when payments are received in advance of fulfilling its performance obligations. Deferred revenue at December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022 was $2,100, $18,714, and $707,145, respectively.
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company accounts for stock-based compensation to employees in accordance with ASC 718, “Compensation-Stock Compensation”. ASC 718 requires companies to measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments, including stock options, based on the grant date fair value of the award and to recognize it as compensation expense over the period the employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award, usually the vesting period. Stock option forfeitures are recognized at the date of employee termination. Effective January 1, 2019, the Company adopted ASU 2018-07 for the accounting of share-based payments granted to non-employees for goods and services. During the years ended on December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company recorded $0 as stock-based compensation expense.
Foreign Currency
Functional and reporting currency
Items included in the financial statements of each entity in the Company are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates (“functional currency”). The financial statements of the Company are presented in U.S. dollars (the “reporting currency”).
The functional and reporting currency of the Company is the United States dollar (“$”). The financial records of the Company’s subsidiaries located in Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, South Korea and China are maintained in their local currencies, the Singapore Dollar (“S$”), Hong Kong Dollar (“HK$”), Australian Dollar (“AUD”), South Korean Won (“KRW”) and Chinese Yuan (“CN¥”), which are also the functional currencies of these entities.
Transactions in foreign currencies
Transactions in currencies other than the functional currency during the year are converted into functional currency at the applicable rates of exchange prevailing when the transactions occurred. Transaction gains and losses are recognized in the statement of operations.
The majority of the Company’s foreign currency transaction gains or losses come from the effects of foreign exchange rate changes on the intercompany loans between Singapore entities and U.S. entities. The Company recorded $3,039,135 gain on foreign exchange during the year ended on December 31, 2024 and $697,286 loss during the year ended on December 31, 2023. The foreign currency transactional gains and losses are recorded in operations.
Translation of consolidated entities’ financial statements
Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the functional currency are translated into the functional currency at the rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. The Company’s entities with functional currency of S$, HK$, AUD, KRW and CN¥, translate their operating results and financial positions into the U.S. dollar, the Company’s reporting currency. Assets and liabilities are translated using the exchange rates in effect on the balance sheet date. Revenue, expense, gains and losses are translated using the average rate for the year. Translation adjustments are reported as cumulative translation adjustments and are shown as a separate component of comprehensive income (loss).
The Company recorded other comprehensive loss of $4,480,570 from foreign currency translation for the year ended December 31, 2024 and $301,579 loss for the year ended December 31, 2023, in accumulated other comprehensive loss.
Income Taxes
US Income Taxes
Income tax expense represents the sum of the current tax expense and deferred tax expense.
Income tax for current and prior periods is recognized at the amount expected to be paid to or recovered from the tax authorities, using the tax rates and tax laws that have been enacted or substantially enacted by the balance sheet date.
Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences at the balance sheet date between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial statements.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for all temporary differences, except:
| ● | Where the deferred tax arises from the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction that is not a business combination and at the time of the transaction affects neither the accounting profit nor taxable profit or loss. |
| ● | In respect of temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, where the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences can be determined and it is probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future; and |
| ● | In respect of deductible temporary differences and carry-forward of unutilized tax losses, if it is not probable that taxable profits will be available against which those deductible temporary differences and carry-forward of unutilized tax losses can be utilized. |
The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each balance sheet date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to be utilized. Unrecognized deferred tax assets are reassessed at each balance sheet date and are recognized to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profit will allow the deferred tax asset to be utilized.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply to the year when the asset is realized or the liability is settled, based on tax rates and tax laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.
Current and deferred income tax are recognized as income or expense in the profit or loss, except to the extent that the tax arises from a business combination or a transaction which is recognized either in other comprehensive income or directly in equity. Deferred tax arising from a business combination is adjusted against goodwill on acquisition.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax liabilities and assets and they relate to income taxes levied by the same tax authorities on the same taxable entity, or on different tax entities, provided they intend to settle current tax liabilities and assets on a net basis or their tax assets and liabilities will be realized simultaneously.
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the estimated future tax effects of net operating loss and credit carry-forwards and temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their respective financial reporting amounts measured at the current enacted tax rates. The differences relate primarily to net operating loss carryforward from date of acquisition and to the use of the cash basis of accounting for income tax purposes. The Company records an estimated valuation allowance on its deferred income tax assets if it is more likely than not that these deferred income tax assets will not be realized.
The Company recognizes a tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the consolidated financial statements from such a position are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The Company has not recorded any unrecognized tax benefits.
The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions as a component of income tax expense in the consolidated statements of operations. Accrued interest and penalties are included in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits in the consolidated balance sheets. In the event that an uncertain tax position is resolved favorably, previously accrued interest and penalties are reversed and recognized as a reduction to income tax expense.
As of December 31, 2024, the Company has not recognized any interest or penalties related to uncertain tax positions in the consolidated financial statements.
The Company’s 2024, 2023 and 2022 tax returns remain open to examination.
Income Taxes in other countries
Significant judgement is involved in determining the income taxes mainly in Singapore. There are certain transactions and computations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain during the ordinary course of business. The Company recognizes liabilities for expected tax liabilities based on estimates of whether additional taxes will be due. Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts that were initially recognized, such differences will impact the income tax and deferred tax provisions in the period in which such determination is made.
Earnings (Loss) per Share
The Company presents basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share data for its common shares. Basic earnings (loss) per share is calculated by dividing the profit or loss attributable to common stock shareholders of the Company by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the year, adjusted for treasury shares held by the Company.
Diluted earnings (loss) per share is determined by adjusting the profit or loss attributable to common stock shareholders and the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding, adjusted for treasury shares held, for the effects of all dilutive potential ordinary shares, which comprise convertible securities, such as stock options, convertible bonds and warrants. At December 31, 2024 there were 425,216 potentially dilutive warrants outstanding. At December 31, 2023 there were 425,216 potentially dilutive warrants outstanding.
Fair Value Measurements
ASC 820,Fair Value Measurement and Disclosures, defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. This topic also establishes a fair value hierarchy which requires classification based on observable and unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. There are three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:
Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in an active market for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active.
Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity; therefore, the inputs are developed by the Company using estimates and assumptions that the Company expects a market participant would use, including pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques.
The carrying value of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash and restricted cash, accounts receivable and accounts payable and accrued expenses approximate fair value because of the short-term maturity of these financial instruments. The liabilities in connection with the conversion and make-whole features included within certain of the Company’s notes payable and warrants are each classified as a level 3 liability.
Non-controlling Interests
Non-controlling interests represent the equity in subsidiary not attributable, directly or indirectly, to shareholders of the Company, and are presented separately in the Consolidated Statements of Operation and Other Comprehensive Loss, and within equity in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, separately from equity attributable to shareholders of the Company.
On December 31, 2024 and 2023, the aggregate non-controlling interests in the Company were $8,867,785 and $8,601,562, respectively.
Impairment of Long-lived Assets
Real Estate
Our policy is to obtain an independent third-party valuation for each major project in the United States to identify triggering events for impairment. Our management may use a market comparison method to value other relatively small projects. In addition to the annual assessment of potential triggering events in accordance with ASC 360 – Property Plant and Equipment (“ASC 360”), we apply a fair value-based impairment test to the net book value assets on an annual basis and on an interim basis if certain events or circumstances indicate that an impairment loss may have occurred.
Goodwill
The Company evaluates goodwill on an annual basis in the fourth quarter or more frequently, if the management believes indicators of impairment exist. Such indicators could include, but are not limited to (1) a significant adverse change in legal factors or in business climate, (2) unanticipated competition, or (3) an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. The Company first assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. If management concludes that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, management conducts a quantitative goodwill impairment test. The impairment test involves comparing the fair value of the applicable reporting unit with its carrying value. The Company estimates the fair values of its reporting units using a combination of the income, or discounted cash flows, approach and the market approach, which utilizes comparable companies’ data. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit.
Loans and Investments
The Company evaluates loans and investments for impairment at each reporting date. For loans, impairment is recognized when it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms. For investments, an impairment loss is recorded if the decline in fair value is considered other-than-temporary. Impairment losses are measured based on the difference between the carrying amount and estimated fair value, with changes recognized in the consolidated statements of operations.
Capitalized Financing Costs
Financing costs, such as loan origination fee, administration fee, interests and other related financing costs, should be capitalized and recorded on the balance sheet if these financing activities are directly associated with the development of real estates.
Capitalized Financing Costs are allocated to lots sold based on the total expected development and interest costs of the completed project and allocating a percentage of those costs based on the selling price of the sold lot compared to the expected sales values of all lots in the project. If the allocation of capitalized financing costs based on the projection and relative expected sales value is impracticable, those costs could also be allocated based on an area method, which uses the size of the lots compared to the total project area and allocates costs based on their size.
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the capitalized financing costs were $0 and $1,225,739, respectively.
Related Party Transactions
The Company accounts for related party transactions in accordance with ASC 850 (“Related Party Disclosures”). A party is considered to be related to the Company if the party directly or indirectly or through one or more intermediaries, controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with the Company. Related parties also include principal owners of the Company, its management, members of the immediate families of principal owners of the Company and its management and other parties with which the Company may deal if one party controls or can significantly influence the management or operating policies of the other to an extent that one of the transacting parties might be prevented from fully pursuing its own separate interests. A party which can significantly influence the management or operating policies of the transacting parties or if it has an ownership interest in one of the transacting parties and can significantly influence the other to an extent that one or more of the transacting parties might be prevented from fully pursuing its own separate interests is also a related party.
Beneficial Conversion Features
The Company evaluates the conversion feature for whether it was beneficial as described in ASC 470-30. The intrinsic value of a beneficial conversion feature inherent to a convertible note payable, which is not bifurcated and accounted for separately from the convertible note payable and may not be settled in cash upon conversion, is treated as a discount to the convertible note payable. This discount is amortized over the period from the date of issuance to the date the note is due using the effective interest method. If the note payable is retired prior to the end of its contractual term, the unamortized discount is expensed in the period of retirement to interest expense. In general, the beneficial conversion feature is measured by comparing the effective conversion price, after considering the relative fair value of detachable instruments included in the financing transaction, if any, to the fair value of the shares of common stock at the commitment date to be received upon conversion.
**Recent Accounting Pronouncements **
In November 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued ASU No. 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures (ASU 2023-07), which requires an enhanced disclosure of significant segment expenses on an annual and interim basis. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. Upon adoption, the guidance should be applied retrospectively to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. The Company adopted ASU 2023-07 on December 31, 2024 on a retrospective basis. The adoption of this guidance does not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740) – Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures (“ASU 2023-09”). ASU 2023-09 requires that an entity, on an annual basis, disclose additional income tax information, primarily related to the rate reconciliation and income taxes paid. The amendment in the ASU is intended to enhance the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures. The ASU’s amendments are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that adoption of ASU 2023-09 will have on its financial statements.
In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU No. 2024-03 (“ASU 2024-03”), Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income - Expense Disaggregation Disclosures (Subtopic 220-40): Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses, which is intended to improve disclosures about a public business entity’s expenses, primarily through additional disaggregation of income statement expenses. ASU 2024-03 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2026, and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2027, with early adoption permitted. The amendments in ASU 2024-03 should be applied either prospectively to financial statements issued for reporting periods after the effective date or retrospectively to any or all prior periods presented in the financial statements. The Company is currently evaluating the ASU to determine its impact on the Company’s disclosures.
3. CONCENTRATIONS
The Company maintains cash balances at various financial institutions in different countries. These balances are usually secured by the central banks’ insurance companies. At times, these balances may exceed the insurance limits.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, two customers accounted for approximately 30%, and 70% of the Company’s property and development revenue. For the year ended December 31, 2023, three customers accounted for approximately 36%,36%, and 28% of the Company’s property and development revenue.
4. SEGMENTS
Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision makers (the “CODMs”), or decision–making group, in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. The Company’s chief operating decision makers are the two Co-CEOs, who review and assess the performance of the Company as a whole. The Company reports its segment information to reflect the manner in which the CODMs review and assess performance. The Company has four operating segments based on the products and services we offer, which include three of our principal businesses – real estate, digital transformation technology and biohealth – as well as a fourth category consisting of certain other business activities. In determination of segments, the Company, together with its CODMs, considers factors that include the nature of business activities, allocation of resources and management structure.
The primary financial measures used by the CODMs to evaluate performance and allocate resources are net income (loss) and operating income (loss). The CODMs use net income (loss) and operating income (loss) to evaluate the performance of the Company’s ongoing operations and as part of the Company’s internal planning and forecasting processes. Information on net income (loss) and operating income (loss) is disclosed in the Consolidated Statements of Income. Segment expenses and other segment items are provided to the CODMs on the same basis as disclosed in the Consolidated Statements of Income. Costs excluded from segment income (loss) before taxes and reported as “Other” consist of corporate general and administrative activities which are not allocable to the four reportable segments.
The following table summarizes the Company’s segment information for the following balance sheet dates presented, and for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023:
| Real Estate · Digital Transformation Technology · Biohealth Business · Other · Total | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | $19,608,184 | $ | - | $ | - | $1,507,715 | $21,115,899 |
| Cost of Sales | (12,034,348) | - | (3,370) | (744,906) | (12,782,624) | ||
| Gross Margin | 7,573,836 | - | (3,370) | 762,809 | 8,333,275 | ||
| Operating Expenses | (1,793,188) | (616,403) | (1,076,095) | (8,964,666) | (12,450,351) | ||
| Operating Income (Loss) | 5,780,648 | (616,403) | (1,079,465) | (8,201,857) | (4,117,076) | ||
| Other Income (Expense) | 1,522 | (2,947,968) | (139,737) | 3,188,229 | 102,046 | ||
| Net Income (Loss) Before Income Tax | $5,782,170 | $(3,564,371) | $(1,219,202) | $(5,013,628) | $(4,015,030) | ||
| Real Estate | Digital Transformation Technology | Biohealth Business | Other | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | $20,963,661 | $28,117 | $12,758 | $1,083,971 | $22,088,507 |
| Cost of Sales | (13,915,144) | (9,145) | (54,529) | (597,391) | (14,576,209) |
| Gross Margin | 7,048,517 | 18,972 | (41,771) | 486,580 | 7,512,298 |
| Operating Expenses | (1,312,024) | (468,679) | (869,683) | (7,734,566) | (10,384,952) |
| Operating Income (Loss) | 5,736,493 | (449,707) | (911,454) | (7,247,986) | (2,872,654) |
| Other Income (Expense) | 47,363 | (6,066,133) | (593,994) | (51,700,965) | (58,313,729) |
| Net Income (Loss) Before Income Tax | $5,783,856 | $(6,515,840) | $(1,505,448) | $(58,948,951) | $(61,186,383) |
| Cash and Restricted Cash | $4,928,236 | $326,540 | $3,375,824 | $19,553,127 | $28,183,726 |
| Total Assets | 44,683,563 | 3,176,729 | 5,446,468 | 43,382,430 | 96,761,977 |
| Cash and Restricted Cash | $3,323,210 | $430,807 | $568,702 | $23,566,574 | $27,889,293 |
| Total Assets | 62,989,233 | 5,845,269 | 2,450,876 | 55,028,650 | 126,314,028 |
5. REAL ESTATE ASSETS
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, real estate assets consisted of the following:
| December 31, 2024 · December 31, 2023 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction in Progress | $ | - | $6,983,974 |
| Land Held for Development | - | 3,382,792 | |
| Rental Properties | 30,695,669 | 31,770,386 | |
| Total Real Estate Assets | $30,695,669 | $42,137,152 | |
Single family residential properties
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company owns 132 Single Family Residential Properties (“SFRs”). The Company’s aggregate investment in those SFRs was $31 million. Depreciation expense was $1,056,206 and $1,050,897 in years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. These homes are located in Montgomery and Harris Counties, Texas.
The following table presents the summary of our SRFs as of December 31, 2024:
| Number of Homes | Aggregate investment | Average Investment per Home | |
|---|---|---|---|
| SFRs | 132 | $33,190,603 | $251,444 |
6. NOTES PAYABLE
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, notes payable consisted of the following:
| December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Vehicle Loans | $123,118 | $156,926 |
| Loans for Operations | 37,837 | - |
| Promissory Note to EF Hutton LLC | 1,255,345 | - |
| Total notes payable | $1,416,300 | $156,926 |
M&T Bank Loan
On April 17, 2019, SeD Maryland Development LLC entered into a Development Loan Agreement with Manufacturers and Traders Trust Company (“M&T Bank”) in the principal amount not to exceed at any one time outstanding the sum of $8,000,000, with a cumulative loan advance amount of $18,500,000. The line of credit bore interest rate on LIBOR plus 375 basis points. SeD Maryland Development LLC was also provided with a Letter of Credit (“L/C”) Facility in an aggregate amount of up to $900,000. The L/C commission is 1.5% per annum on the face amount of the L/C. Other standard lender fees apply in the event the L/C is drawn down. The loan is a revolving line of credit. The L/C Facility is not a revolving loan, and amounts advanced and repaid may not be re-borrowed. Repayment of the Loan Agreement is secured by $2,600,000 collateral fund and a Deed of Trust issued to the Lender on the property owned by SeD Maryland. The loan expired during 2022 and only L/C is outstanding as of December 31, 2024 and 2023. On March 15, 2022 approximately $2,300,000 was released from collateral, leaving approximately $300,000 as collateral for outstanding letters of credit. On December 14, 2023 approximately $201,751 was released from collateral, leaving approximately $100,000 as collateral for outstanding letters of credit.
Motor Vehicle Loans
On May 17, 2021, Alset International Limited entered into an agreement with Hong Leong Finance Limited to purchase a car for business. The total purchase price of the car, including associated charges, was approximately $184,596. Alset International paid an initial deposit of $78,640, and would make monthly instalment of approximately $1,300, including interest of 1.88% per annum, for the 84 months.
On September 22, 2022 Alset International entered into an agreement with United Overseas Bank Limited to purchase additional car for business. The total purchase price of the car, including associated charges, was approximately $182,430. Alset International paid an initial deposit of $66,020 and would make monthly installments of approximately $1,472, including interest of 1.88% per annum, for the 84 months.
Both loans are personally guaranteed by our Chairman, Chan Heng Fai.
Future minimum principal payments under existing motor vehicle loans at December 31, 2024 in each calendar year through the end of their terms are as follows:
| 2025 | $29,842 |
| 2026 | 29,842 |
| 2027 | 29,842 |
| 2028 | 20,769 |
| Thereafter | 12,823 |
| Total Future Payments | $123,118 |
Loans for Operations
The Company’s subsidiary, Ketomei Pte Ltd (“Ketomei”) has a loan from DBS Bank Limited, which was used to fund Ketomei’s current operations. Ketomei owes DBS $34,156 at December 31, 2024.
Ketomei also borrowed $42,696 from an individual on February 21, 2022, which consisted of principal of $36,807 and interest of $5,889 for 2 years at 8% interest rate per annum. Ketomei repaid $39,015 in 2024 and owes $3,681 at December 31, 2024, which will be repaid in 6 installments in 2025.
Promissory Note to EF Hutton LLC
On December 18, 2023, the Company’s subsidiary, HWH International Inc. entered into a Satisfaction and Discharge of Indebtedness Agreement in connection with an underwriting agreement previously entered into by HWH and EF Hutton LLC (“EF Hutton”), a division of Benchmark Investments, LLC, under which in lieu of HWH tendering the full amount due of $3,018,750, the underwriters accepted a combination of $325,000 in cash paid upon the closing of Business Combination,149,443 shares of the Company’s common stock and a $1,184,375 promissory note as full satisfaction. This agreement was effective at the closing of Business Combination on January 9, 2024. The 149,443 shares were issued as of the price of $10.10, totaling the amount of $1,509,375. The fair value of the HWH shares at issuance on January 9, 2024 was $2.82 per share or $421,429. No gain or loss was recognized upon issuance of the shares on January 9, 2024 as this was an adjustment to prior underwriting costs accounted for in equity. The promissory note carries interest rate equal to SOFR (secured overnight financing rate for U.S. Government Securities Business Day published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York) plus a margin of one percent. The principal amount of the promissory note and any accrued interest shall mature (i) partially in the event HWH completes an offering within one year of the date of the promissory note, the amount of outstanding debt maturing being proportionate to the amount of proceeds of the future offering, or (ii) in partial installments through October of 2028, the outstanding balance being paid annually until the balance owed is paid in full. The first installment of the note that was due in October 2024 was paid in January 2025, resulting in a default due to the delay in payment. We are currently in negotiations with EF Hutton to resolve the default status and restore the account to good standing. As of December 31, 2024, the Company accrued $70,970 in interest on the promissory note and owed $1,255,345 to EF Hutton.
7. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Purchase Shares and Warrants from APW
On July 17, 2020, the Company purchased 122,039,000 shares, approximately 0.5% ownership, and 1,220,390,000 warrants with an exercise price of $0.0001 per share, from APW, for an aggregated purchase price of $122,039. We value APW warrants under level 3 category through a Black Scholes option pricing model and the fair value of the warrants from APW were $860,342 as of July 17, 2020, the purchase date and $973 and $430 as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The difference of $945,769 of fair value of stock and warrants, total $1,067,808 and the purchase price $122,039, was recorded as additional paid in capital as it was a related party transaction.
Reorganization of Home Rental Business
On December 9, 2022, the Company entered into an agreement with Alset EHome Inc. and Alset International Limited, two majority-owned subsidiaries of the Company, pursuant to which the Company agreed to reorganize the ownership of its home rental business. Previously, the Company and certain majority-owned subsidiaries collectively owned 132 single-family rental homes in Texas. 112 of these rental homes are owned by subsidiaries of American Home REIT Inc. (“AHR”). The Company owns 85.7% of Alset International Limited, and Alset International Limited indirectly owns approximately 99.9% of Alset EHome Inc.
The closing of the transaction contemplated by this agreement was completed on January 13, 2023. Pursuant to this agreement, the Company became the direct owner of AHR and its subsidiaries that collectively own these 112 homes, instead of such homes being owned indirectly through Alset International Limited’s subsidiaries.
Alset EHome Inc. sold AHR to the Company for a total consideration of $26,250,933, including the forgiveness of debt in the amount of $13,900,000, a promissory note in the amount of $11,350,933 and a cash payment of $1,000,000. This purchase price represents the book value of AHR as of November 30, 2022. The promissory note carries interest rate of 7.2% and matures on January 13, 2028.
The closing of the transaction was approved by the shareholders of Alset International Limited. Certain members of the Company’s Board of Directors and management are also members of the Board of Directors and management of each of Alset International Limited and Alset EHome Inc.
SHRG Shares Dividend Received from DSS
On May 4, 2023, DSS distributed approximately 280 million shares SHRG beneficially held by DSS and its subsidiaries in the form of a dividend to the shareholders of DSS common stock. As a result of this distribution, the Company directly received 70,426,832 shares of SHRG, and through its majority-owned subsidiary Alset International Limited, and certain subsidiaries of Alset International Limited, indirectly received additional 55,197,696 shares of SHRG. On September 12, 2024, SHRG completed 1 for 1,400 reverse stock split. The Company and its majority-owned subsidiaries now collectively own 89,732 shares of SHRG, representing 29.0% of the issued and outstanding shares of SHRG Common Stock (such number of SHRG shares held and ownership percentage do not include any shares held by affiliates of the Company which we do not hold a majority interest in). Additionally, our founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Chan Heng Fai, directly and indirectly is the owner of additional shares of SHRG and is a beneficial owner of significant number of SHRG shares (including those shares owned by Alset Inc. and its majority-owned subsidiaries).
Stock Purchase Agreement with DSS
On December 10, 2024, the Company entered into a stock purchase agreement with DSS, pursuant to which the Company agreed to purchase 820,597 newly issued shares of DSS’s common stock for a total purchase price of $800,000 (representing a price of $0.9749 per share of DSS common stock).
The Company and its various subsidiaries are collectively the largest shareholder of DSS. The Company’s Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and majority stockholder, Chan Heng Fai, is also the Executive Chairman of DSS and a significant stockholder of DSS.
Consolidation of HWH International Inc. (f.k.a. Alset Capital Acquisition Corp.)
On May 1, 2023, Alset Capital Acquisition Corp. (now known as HWH International Inc.) (“Alset Capital”) held a Special Meeting of Stockholders. In connection with the Special Meeting and certain amendments to Alset Capital’s Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation,6,648,964 shares of Alset Capital’s Class A Common Stock were rendered for redemption. Following the redemption,2,449,786 shares of Class A Common Stock of Alset Capital remained issued and outstanding, including 473,750 shares held by the Company. The Company also owned 2,156,250 shares of Alset Capital’s Class B Common Stock. Following the redemptions, Company’s ownership in Alset Capital has increased from 23.4% of the total shares of common stock to 58.0% of the total number of outstanding shares of the two classes. The Company recognized $21,657,036 loss on the consolidation of Alset Capital. The loss is included in Company’s Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Purchase of Additional Shares of HWH International Inc.
On November 25, 2024, the Company entered into a stock purchase agreement with HWH pursuant to which the Company agreed to purchase 4,411,764 newly issued shares of the HWH’s common stock for a purchase price of $0.68 per share.
On December 24, 2024, the Company entered into a stock purchase agreement with HWH pursuant to which the Company agreed to purchase 1,300,000 newly issued shares of the HWH’s common stock for a purchase price of $0.45 per share.
Business Combination of Alset Capital Acquisition Corp. and HWH International Inc.
On January 9, 2024, two entities affiliated with Alset Inc. completed a previously announced transaction. On September 9, 2022, Alset Capital entered into an agreement and plan of merger (the “Merger Agreement”) with our indirect subsidiary HWH International Inc., a Nevada corporation and HWH Merger Sub Inc., a Nevada corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of Alset Capital (“Merger Sub”). The Company and its 85.7% owned subsidiary Alset International own Alset Acquisition Sponsor, LLC, the sponsor (the “Sponsor”) of Alset Capital.
Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, on January 9, 2024, a Business Combination between Alset Capital and HWH was effected through the merger of Merger Sub with and into HWH, with HWH surviving the merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of Alset Capital (the “Merger”), and Alset Capital changing its name to HWH International Inc. (“New HWH”).
The total consideration paid at the closing of the Merger by New HWH to the HWH shareholders was 12,500,000 shares of New HWH common stock. Alset International owned the majority of the outstanding shares of HWH at the time of the Business Combination, and received 10,900,000 shares of New HWH as consideration for its shares of HWH.
New HWH currently has 32,382,102 shares of common stock issued and outstanding. Of these shares, a total of 25,213,331 shares of New HWH common stock are now owned by the Sponsor, Alset International, and the Company directly. In addition, the Sponsor owns warrants convertible into up to 236,875 shares of New HWH common stock upon exercise.
The transaction described above was a transaction between entities under common control. In the transactions under common control, financial statements and financial information were presented as of the beginning of the period as though the assets and liabilities had been transferred at that date. The Company controlled both entities before and after the transaction and accordingly, the transaction had no effect on the Company’s financial statements as the equity was eliminated in consolidation.
Purchase and Sale of Hapi Travel Ltd. Stock
On June 14, 2023, the Company’s subsidiary completed acquisition of Hapi Travel Limited (“HTL”), an online travel business started in Hong Kong and under common control of the Company. The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the operations of the acquired entity from its acquisition date. The acquisition has been accounted for as a business combination. Accordingly, consideration paid by the Company to complete the acquisition is initially allocated to the acquired assets and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values on the acquisition date. The recorded amounts for assets acquired and liabilities assumed are provisional and subject to change during the measurement period, which is up to 12 months from the acquisition date. As a result of the acquisition of HTL, a deemed dividend of $214,174 was generated as a result of the business combination, which represents the purchase price of $214,993 in excess of identifiable equity.
| ● | The acquisition of HTL was accounted for prospectively as of June 14, 2023 as this did not represent a change in reporting entity. |
| ● | The acquisition of HTL was under common control and was consolidated in accordance with ASC 850-50. The Consolidated financial statements were not retrospectively adjusted for the acquisition of HTL as of January 1, 2022 for comparative purposes because the historical operations of HTL were deemed to be immaterial to the Company’s consolidated financial statements. |
On December 17, 2024, this company was sold to HapiTravel Holding Pte. Ltd. for a consideration of $82,635 with $257,733 gain recognized for the deal. The disposal of HTL had immaterial impact on Company’s financial statements.
Convertible Notes to Value Exchange
On January 27, 2023, Hapi Metaverse and New Electric CV Corporation (together with Hapi Metaverse, the “Lenders”) entered into a Convertible Credit Agreement (the “1 st VEII Credit Agreement”) with VEII. The 1 st VEII Credit Agreement provides VEII with a maximum credit line of $1,500,000 with simple interest accrued on any advances of the money under the 1 st VEII Credit Agreement at 8%. The 1 st VEII Credit Agreement grants conversion rights to each Lender. Each Advance shall be convertible, in whole or in part, into shares of VEII’s Common Stock at the option of the Lender who made that Advance (being referred to as a “Conversion”), at any time and from time to time, at a price per share equal the “Conversion Price”. In the event that a Lender elects to convert any portion of an Advance into shares of VEII Common Stock in lieu of cash payment in satisfaction of that Advance, then VEII would issue to the Lender five (5) detachable warrants for each share of VEII’s Common Stock issued in a Conversion (“Warrants”). Each Warrant will entitle the Lender to purchase one (1) share of Common Stock at a per-share exercise price equal to the Conversion Price. The exercise period of each Warrant will be five (5) years from date of issuance of the Warrant. On February 23, 2023, Hapi Metaverse loaned VEII $1,400,000 (the “Loan Amount”). The Loan Amount can be converted into shares of VEII pursuant to the terms of the 1 st VEII Credit Agreement for a period of three years. There is no fixed price for the derivative security until Hapi Metaverse converts the Loan Amount into shares of VEII Common Stock.
On September 6, 2023, Hapi Metaverse converted $1,300,000 of the principal amount loaned to VEII into 7,344,632 shares of VEII’s Common Stock. Under the terms of the 1 st VEII Credit Agreement, Hapi Metaverse received Warrants to purchase a maximum of 36,723,160 shares of VEII’s Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.1770 per share. Such warrants expire five (5) years from date of their issuance. On December 31, 2024 the fair value of the remaining $100,000 of convertible note and warrants was $24,283 and $1,299,973, respectively. On December 31, 2023 the fair value of the remaining $100,000 of convertible note and warrants was $101,150 and $2,487,854, respectively. (For further details on fair value valuation refer to Note 11. – Investments Measured at Fair Value, Convertible Note Receivables).
On December 14, 2023, Hapi Metaverse entered into a Convertible Credit Agreement (“2 nd VEII Credit Agreement”) with VEII. On December 15, 2023, Hapi Metaverse loaned VEII $1,000,000. The 2 nd VEII Credit Agreement was amended pursuant to an agreement dated December 19, 2023. Under the 2 nd VEII Credit Agreement, as amended, this amount can be converted into VEII’s Common Shares pursuant to the terms of the 2 nd VEII Credit Agreement for a period of three years. In the event that Hapi Metaverse converts this loan into shares of VEII’s Common Stock, the conversion price shall be $0.045 per share. In the event that Hapi Metaverse elects to convert any portion of the loan into shares of VEII’s Common Stock in lieu of cash payment in satisfaction of that loan, then VEII will issue to Hapi Metaverse five (5) detachable warrants for each share of VEII’s Common Stock issued in a conversion (“Warrants”). Each Warrant will entitle Hapi Metaverse to purchase one (1) share of VEII’s Common Stock at a per-share exercise price equal to the Conversion Price. The exercise period of each Warrant will be five (5) years from date of issuance of the Warrant. The fair value of this convertible note on December 31, 2024 and 2023 was $447,480 and $1,106,477, respectively. (For further details on fair value valuation refer to Note 11. – Investments Measured at Fair Value, Convertible Note Receivables). At the time of this filing, the Company has not converted the Loan Amount.
On July 15, 2024, the Company entered into a Convertible Credit Agreement (“3 rd VEII Credit Agreement”) with VEII for an unsecured credit line in the maximum amount of $110,000 (“2024 Credit Line”). Advances of the principal under the 3 rd VEII Credit Agreement accrue simple interest at 8% per annum. Each Advance under the 3 rd VEII Credit Agreement and all accrued interest thereon may, at the election of VEII, or the Company, be: (1) repaid in cash; (2) converted into shares of VEII Common Stock; or (3) be repaid in a combination of cash and shares of VEII Common Stock. The principal amount of each Advance under the 3 rd VEII Credit Agreement is due and payable on the third (3rd) annual anniversary of the date that the Advance is received by VEII along with any unpaid interest accrued on the principal (the “Advance Maturity Date”). Prior to the Advance Maturity Date, unpaid interest accrued on any Advance shall be paid on the last business day of June and on the last business day of December of each year in which the Advance is outstanding and not converted into shares of VEII Common Stock. Company may prepay any Advance under the 3 rd VEII Credit Agreement and interests accrued thereon prior to Advance Maturity Date without penalty or charge. At the time of this filing, the Company has not converted the Loan Amount. The fair value of this convertible note on December 31, 2024 was $97,867. (For further details on fair value valuation refer to Note 11. – Investments Measured at Fair Value, Convertible Note Receivables).
Convertible Notes to Sharing Services
On January 17, 2024, the Company received a Convertible Promissory Note (the “1 st SHRG Convertible Note”) from Sharing Services Global Corp., an affiliate of the Company, in exchange for a $250,000 loan made by the Company to SHRG. The Company may convert a portion or all of the outstanding balance due under the 1 st SHRG Convertible Note into shares of SHRG’s common stock at the average closing market price of SHRG stock within the last three (3) days from the date of conversion notice. The 1 st SHRG Convertible Note bears a 10% interest rate and has a scheduled maturity six (6) months from the date of the 1 st SHRG Convertible Note, or July 17, 2024. The terms of the note and maturity date were subsequently extended, following the agreement of both parties. On November 12, 2024, the Company entered into terms with SHRG to waive all interest previously accrued under the 1 st SHRG Convertible Note, and supersede the conditions thereof. The principal $250,000 loan was carried forward under a new Convertible Promissory Note (the “New Convertible Note”), and under the terms of the New Convertible Note, the Company may, at its discretion, convert a portion or all of the original principal into shares of SHRG’s common stock at a fixed rate of $0.10 per share. The New Convertible Note bears an 8% interest rate and has a scheduled maturity of the second (2nd) anniversary of the date thereof, or November 12, 2026. The fair value of this New Convertible Note on December 31, 2024 was $468,093. (For further details on fair value valuation refer to Note 12. – Investments Measured at Fair Value, Convertible Note Receivables).
On March 20, 2024, HWH International Inc., a subsidiary of the Company, entered into a securities purchase agreement with SHRG, pursuant to which HWH purchased from SHRG a (i) Convertible Promissory Note (the “2 nd SHRG Convertible Note) in the amount of $250,000, convertible into 148,810 shares of SHRG’s common stock at the option of HWH, and (ii) certain warrants exercisable into 148,810 shares of SHRG’s common stock at an exercise price of $1.68 per share, the exercise period of the warrant being five (5) years from the date of the securities purchase agreement, for an aggregate purchase price of $250,000. At the time of this filing, HWH has not converted any of the debt contemplated by the 2 nd SHRG Convertible Note nor exercised any of the warrants. On December 31, 2024 the fair value of the 2 nd SHRG Convertible Note and warrants was $212,865 and $13,272, respectively. (For further details on fair value valuation refer to Note 11. – Investments Measured at Fair Value, Convertible Note Receivables).
On May 9, 2024, HWH entered into a securities purchase agreement with SHRG, pursuant to which HWH purchased from SHRG a Convertible Promissory Note (the “3 rd SHRG Convertible Note”) in the amount of $250,000, convertible into 89,286 shares of SHRG’s common stock at the option of HWH for an aggregate purchase price of $250,000. The 3 rd SHRG Convertible Note bears an 8% interest rate and has a scheduled maturity three years from the date of the 3 rd SHRG Convertible Note. Additionally, upon signing the 3 rd SHRG Convertible Note, SHRG owns the Company commitment fee of 8% of the principal amount, which will be paid either in cash or in common stock of SHRG, at the discretion of the Company. At the time of this filing, HWH has not converted any of the debt contemplated by the 3 rd SHRG Convertible Note. On December 31, 2024 the fair value of the 3 rd SHRG Convertible Note was $230,871. (For further details on fair value valuation refer to Note 11. – Investments Measured at Fair Value, Convertible Note Receivables.)
On June 6, 2024, HWH entered into a securities purchase agreement with SHRG, pursuant to which HWH purchased from SHRG a Convertible Promissory Note (the “4 th SHRG Convertible Note”) in the amount of $250,000, convertible into 89,286 shares of SHRG’s common stock at the option of HWH for an aggregate purchase price of $250,000. The Convertible Note bears an 8% interest rate and has a scheduled maturity three years from the date of the 4 th SHRG Convertible Note. Additionally, upon signing the 4 th SHRG Convertible Note, SHRG owns the Company commitment fee of 8% of the principal amount $20,000 in total, which will be paid either in cash or in common stock of SHRG, at the discretion of the Company. At the time of this filing, HWH has not converted any of the debt contemplated by the 4 th SHRG Convertible Note. On December 31, 2024, the fair value of the 4 th SHRG Convertible Note was $212,865. (For further details on fair value valuation refer to Note 11. – Investments Measured at Fair Value, Convertible Note Receivables.)
On August 13, 2024, HWH entered into a securities purchase agreement with SHRG, pursuant to which HWH purchased from SHRG a Convertible Promissory Note (the “5 th SHRG Convertible Note”) in the amount of $100,000, convertible into 35,714 shares of SHRG’s common stock at the option of the Company for an aggregate purchase price of $100,000. The 5 th SHRG Convertible Note bears an 8% interest rate and has a scheduled maturity three years from the date of the 5 th SHRG Convertible Note. Additionally, upon signing the 5 th SHRG Convertible Note, SHRG owed the Company a commitment fee of 8% of the principal amount, $8,000 in total, to be paid either in cash or in common stock of SHRG, at the discretion of the Company. At the time of this filing, HWH has not converted any of the debt contemplated by the 5 th SHRG Convertible Note. On December 31, 2024, the fair value of the 5 th SHRG Convertible Note was $88,209. (For further details on fair value valuation refer to Note 11. – Investments Measured at Fair Value, Convertible Note Receivables.)
Advance to Related Party
On February 20, 2024, the Company sent $550,000 to Sentinel Brokers Company Inc. (“Sentinel”). The initial purpose of the transfer was to invest in shares of this company. The transaction did not close as planned and $467,107 of the funds were returned, with $82,893 written off. The Company has significant influence over Sentinel as it holds 10.4% of outstanding shares of Sentinel and its CEO holds a director position on Sentinel’s Board of Directors.
Apartment Rental for the CEO
The Company is renting an apartment in Singapore for its CEO and Chairman, Chan Heng Fai, as part of the compensation for his services. The Company paid $20,908 deposit for the apartment and had expenses of $91,203 and $119,326 in the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The lease expired in September 2024 and the Company did not extend that lease.
Notes Payable
Chan Heng Fai provided an interest-free, due on demand advance to SeD Perth Pty. Ltd. for its general operations. On December 31, 2024 and 2023, the outstanding balance was $11,618 and $12,716, respectively.
Chan Heng Fai provided an interest-free, due on demand advance to Hapi Metaverse Inc. for its general operations. As of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the outstanding balance was $4,176 and $4,153, respectively.
Management Fees
MacKenzie Equity Partners, LLC, an entity owned by Charles MacKenzie, Chief Development Officer of the Company, has a consulting agreement with a majority-owned subsidiary of the Company. Pursuant to an agreement entered into in June of 2022, as supplemented in August, 2023, the Company’s subsidiary is paying $25,000 per month for consulting services. In addition, MacKenzie Equity Partners has been paid certain bonuses, including (i) a sum of $50,000 in June, 2022; (ii) a sum of $50,000 in August 2023; (iii) a sum of $50,000 in December 2023; and (iv) a sum of $60,000 in June, 2024.
The Company incurred expenses of $360,000 and $400,000 in the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, which were capitalized as part of Real Estate on the balance sheet as the services relate to property and project management. On December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company owed this related party $41,602 and $27,535, respectively. These amounts are included in Accounts Payable in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.
CA Global Consulting Inc., an entity owned by Anthony Chan, the former Chief Operating Officer of the Company, had a consulting agreement with the Company dated April 8, 2021, as amended on May 6, 2022. As of June 13, 2024, the Company terminated the consulting agreement with CA Global Consulting Inc., and the Company ceased paying consulting fees in the amount of $15,000 per month. The Company incurred expenses of $77,500 and $120,000 in the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Note Receivable from a Related Party
On December 31, 2023, the total convertible note receivable from Ketomei, prior to impairment charges, was $368,299. Considering ASC 326 and after reviewing the performance of Ketomei, the Company decided to record 100% impairment for the convertible note receivable and equity method investment in 2023.
On August 31, 2023, Hapi Café Inc. and Ketomei Pte. Ltd. entered into a binding term sheet pursuant to which HCI agreed to lend Ketomei up to $36,634 pursuant to a convertible loan, with a term of 12 months. After the initial 12 months, the interest on such loan will be 3.5%. This loan was written off upon the acquisition of Ketomei in February 2024.
On October 26, 2023, the same parties entered into another binding term sheet pursuant to which HCI agreed to lend Ketomei up to $37,876 pursuant to a non- convertible loan, with a term of 12 months. After the initial 12 months, the interest on such loan will be 3.5%. This loan was written off upon the acquisition of Ketomei in February 2024.
The amount due from Ketomei at December 31, 2023 was $0.
On February 20, 2024, HCI-T invested $312,064 for an additional 38.41% ownership interest in Ketomei by converting $312,064 of convertible loan. The loan was impaired at the year ended of December 31, 2023, therefore, $312,064 was transferred from impairment of convertible loan to impairment of goodwill. After this additional investment, Hapi Cafe owns 55.65% (the Company owns indirectly 45.5%) of Ketomei’s outstanding shares and Ketomei is consolidated into the financial statements of the Company beginning on February 20, 2024.
On October 13, 2021, the Company’s indirect subsidiary, BMI Capital Partners International Limited (“BMI”) entered into a loan agreement with Liquid Value Asset Management Limited (“LVAML”), a subsidiary of DSS, pursuant to which BMI agreed to lend $3,000,000 to LVAML. The loan has variable interest rate and matured on January 12, 2023, with automatic three-month extensions. The purpose of the loan is to purchase a portfolio of trading securities by LVAM. BMI participates in the losses and gains from portfolio based on the calculations included in the loan agreement. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023 LVAML owes the Company $463,995 and $534,671, respectively.
On September 28, 2023 Alset International Limited (“Alset International”) entered into loan agreement with Value Exchange International Inc., pursuant to which Alset International agreed to lend $500,000 to VEII. The loan carries simple annual interest rate of 8%. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023 the Company accrued $40,000 and $10,000 interest, respectively, and VEII owed $550,000 and $510,000, respectively, to Alset International.
On November 6, 2024, the Company signed a loan agreement with HTHPL in the amount of $137,658 at a rate of 5% per annum, the maturity date of which is on or before the second anniversary of the effective date.
On December 18, 2024, the Company sold Hapi Travel Pte. Ltd. (“HTPL”) to HTHPL for a consideration of $834.
As of December 31, 2024, HTHPL owed the Company a total of $139,370, which is recorded in other receivables in the financial statements.
Note 8. GOODWILL
On October 4, 2022, the Company completed its F&B business acquisition of MOC, an F&B business started in Hong Kong. The acquisition has been accounted for as a business combination. Accordingly, consideration paid by the Company to complete the acquisition was initially allocated to the acquired assets and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated acquisition date fair values.
As a result of the acquisition of MOC, goodwill of $60,343 generated in a business combination represents the purchase price of $70,523 in excess of identifiable tangible and intangible assets. Goodwill and intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life are not amortized. Instead, they are reviewed periodically for impairment.
On September 16, 2024, the Company temporarily ceased the café business of MOC after the café’s lease expired and MOC declined to enter into a new lease with the landlord. The Company is searching for a better location to restart the business in the future. As a result, the goodwill of $60,343 was fully impaired on December 31, 2024.
On April 18, 2024, the Company completed its F&B business acquisition of HCTW, an F&B business started in Taiwan. The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the operations of the acquired entity from its acquisition date. The acquisition has been accounted for as a business combination. Accordingly, consideration paid by the Company to complete the acquisition is initially allocated to the acquired assets and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated acquisition date fair values.
As of the date of acquisition, HCTW had a total of $429,962 due to a related party, Alset Business Development Pte. Ltd, (“ABDPL”) a fellow subsidiary of Alset Inc., our ultimate parent company. HCTW borrowed the money from ABDPL since 2022 for its business start-up and daily operations. As a result of the acquisition of HCTW, the Company assumed HCTW’s amount due to ABDPL.
As a result of the acquisition of HCTW, goodwill of $353,616 generated in a business combination represents the purchase price of $3,300 in excess of identifiable tangible and intangible assets. Goodwill and intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life are not amortized. Instead, they are reviewed periodically for impairment. The Company impaired the goodwill of $353,616 as a loss in June of 2024 due to the poor financial situation of HCTW.
The table below reflects the Company’s estimates of the acquisition date fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed for the 2024 acquisition:
| HCTW | |
|---|---|
| Purchase Price | |
| Cash | $3,300 |
| Total purchase consideration | $3,300 |
| Purchase Price Allocation | |
| Assets acquired | |
| Current assets | $24,175 |
| Deposit | 41,987 |
| Property and Equipment, net | 47,890 |
| Operating lease right-of-use assets, net | 379,424 |
| Total assets acquired | $493,476 |
| Liabilities assumed: | |
| Current liabilities | $(2,680) |
| Due to related party | (429,962) |
| Operating lease liability | (411,150) |
| Total liabilities assumed | $(843,792) |
| Net assets acquired | $(350,316) |
| Goodwill | $353,616 |
| Total purchase consideration | $3,300 |
The Company evaluates goodwill on an annual basis in the fourth quarter or more frequently if the management believes indicators of impairment exist. Such indicators could include, but are not limited to (1) a significant adverse change in legal factors or in business climate, (2) unanticipated competition, or (3) an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. The Company first assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. If management concludes that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, management conducts a quantitative goodwill impairment test. The impairment test involves comparing the fair value of the applicable reporting unit with its carrying value. The Company estimates the fair values of its reporting units using a combination of the income, or discounted cash flows, approach and the market approach, which utilizes comparable companies’ data. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit.
The following table summarizes changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.
| December 31, 2024 · December 31, 2023 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Balance at beginning of the period | $60,273 | $60,343 | |
| Add: acquisition of HCTW | 353,616 | - | |
| Less: impairment loss of goodwill of HCTW | (353,616) | - | |
| Less: impairment loss of goodwill of MOC | (60,624) | - | |
| Foreign currency exchange adjustment | (351) | (70) | |
| Balance as of end of the period | $ | - | $60,273 |
9. EQUITY
On June 14, 2021, the Company filed an amendment (the “Amendment”) to its Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, to increase the Company’s authorized share capital. The Amendment increased the Company’s authorized share capital to 250,000,000 common shares and 25,000,000 preferred shares, from 20,000,000 common shares and 5,000,000 preferred shares, respectively.
The Company has designated 6,380 preferred shares as Series A Preferred Stock and 2,132 as Series B Preferred Stock.
On December 6, 2022 the Company filed a certificate of Amendment to the Company’s Certificate of Formation with the Texas Secretary of State to effect a 1-for-20 reverse stock split. The reverse stock split was effective as of December 28, 2022.
Holders of the Series A Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive dividends equal, on an as-if-converted basis, to and in the same form as dividends actually paid on shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share (“Common Stock”) when, as and if paid on shares of Common Stock. Each holder of outstanding Series A Preferred Stock is entitled to vote equal to the number of whole shares of Common Stock into which each share of the Series A Preferred Stock is convertible. Holders of Series A Preferred Stock are entitled, upon liquidation of the Company, to receive the same amount that a holder of Series A Preferred Stock would receive if the Series A Preferred Stock were fully converted into Common Stock.
Holders of the Series B Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive dividends equal, on an as-if-converted basis, to and in the same form as dividends actually paid on shares of the Company’s common stock par value $0.001 per share (“Common Stock”) when, as and if paid on shares of Common Stock. Each holder of outstanding Series B Preferred Stock is entitled to vote equal to the number of whole shares of Common Stock into which each share of the Series B Preferred Stock is convertible. Holders of Series B Preferred Stock are entitled, upon liquidation of the Company, to receive the same amount that a holder of Series B Preferred Stock would receive if the Series B Preferred Stock were fully converted into Common Stock.
The Company analyzed the Preferred stock and the embedded conversion option for derivative accounting consideration under ASC 815-15 “Derivatives and Hedging” and determined that the conversion option should be classified as equity.
On February 6, 2023, the Company entered into an Underwriting Agreement (the “Underwriting Agreement”) in connection with an offering (the “Offering”) of its common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Common Stock”), with Aegis Capital Corp. (the “Underwriter”) as the underwriter, relating to an underwritten public offering of 1,727,273 shares of Common Stock at a public offering price of $2.20 per share. The Underwriting Agreement provides the Underwriter a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 212,863 shares of Common Stock to cover over-allotments, if any.
The net proceeds to the Company from the Offering were approximately $3.3 million, after deducting underwriting discounts and the payment of other offering expenses associated with the Offering that are payable by the Company.
The Offering closed on February 8, 2023. The Common Stock was being offered pursuant to an effective registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-264234), as well as a prospectus supplement in connection with the Offering filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
On December 31, 2024, there were 9,235,119 common shares issued and outstanding.
The following table summarizes the warrant activity for the year ended December 31, 2024.
| Warrant for Common Shares · Weighted Average Exercise Price · Remaining Contractual Term (Years) · Aggregate Intrinsic Value | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Warrants Outstanding as of December 31, 2023 | 603,051 | $80.46 | 2.37 | $ | - |
| Warrants Vested and exercisable at December 31, 2023 | 603,051 | $80.46 | 2.37 | $ | - |
| Granted | - | - | |||
| Exercised | - | - | |||
| Forfeited, cancelled, expired | - | - | |||
| Warrants Outstanding as of December 31, 2024 | 603,051 | $80.46 | 1.36 | $ | - |
| Warrants Vested and exercisable at December 31, 2024 | 603,051 | $80.46 | 1.36 | $ | - |
Class A Common Stock of HWH International Inc. Subject to Possible Redemption
The Company accounts for its, and its subsidiaries’ common stock subject to possible redemption in accordance with the guidance enumerated in ASC 480 “Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity”. Common stock subject to possible redemption are classified as a liability instrument and are measured at fair value. Conditionally redeemable common stock (including shares of common stock that feature redemption rights that are either within the control of the holder or subject to redemption upon the occurrence of uncertain events not solely within the Company’s control) are classified as temporary equity. At all other times, shares of common stock are classified as stockholders’ equity. The Company’s Class A common stock features certain redemption rights that are considered by the Company to be outside of the Company’s control and subject to the occurrence of uncertain future events. Accordingly, at December 31, 2023, the Class A common stock of HWH International Inc. subject to possible redemption in the amount of $20,457,011, are presented as temporary equity, outside of the stockholders’ equity section of the Company’s balance sheets. On December 31, 2024, following redemptions and closing of Business Combination, the temporary equity is $0.
On May 1, 2023, after the redemptions (for further details on this transaction refer to Note 7. – Related Party Transactions, Consolidation of HWH International Inc.), the Company consolidated HWH International Inc.
Issuance of HWH Shares to EF Hutton
On December 18, 2023, the Company’s subsidiary, HWH International Inc. entered into a Satisfaction and Discharge of Indebtedness Agreement in connection with an underwriting agreement previously entered into by HWH and EF Hutton, a division of Benchmark Investments, LLC, under which in lieu of HWH tendering the full amount due of $3,018,750, the underwriters accepted a combination of $325,000 in cash paid upon the closing of the Business Combination,149,443 shares of the Company’s common stock and a $1,184,375 promissory note as full satisfaction. This agreement was effective at the closing of Business Combination on January 9, 2024. The 149,443 shares were issued as of the price of $10.10, totaling the amount of $1,509,375. The fair value of the HWH shares at issuance on January 9, 2024 was $2.82 per share or $421,429. No gain or loss was recognized upon issuance of the shares on January 9, 2024 as this was an adjustment to prior underwriting costs accounted for in equity.
10. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
The following is a summary of the changes in the balances of accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax:
| Unrealized Gains and Losses on Security Investment | Foreign Currency Translations | Change in Minority Interest | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance at January 1, 2024 | $(54,921) | $(119,566) | $3,784,206 | $3,609,719 |
| Other Comprehensive Loss | - | (3,841,305) | (618,276) | (4,459,581) |
| Balance at December 31, 2024 | $(54,921) | $(3,960,871) | $3,165,930 | $(849,862) |
| Unrealized Gains and Losses on Security Investment | Foreign Currency Translations | Change in Minority Interest | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance at January 1, 2023 | $(54,921) | $121,272 | $3,769,712 | $3,836,063 |
| Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income | - | (240,838) | 14,494 | (226,344) |
| Balance at December 31, 2023 | $(54,921) | $(119,566) | $3,784,206 | $3,609,719 |
11. LEASE INCOME
The Company generally rents its SFRs under lease agreements with a term of one year. Future minimum rental revenue under existing leases on our properties at December 31, 2024 in each calendar year through the end of their terms are as follows:
| 2025 | $1,375,915 |
| 2026 | 14,800 |
| Total Future Receipts | $1,390,715 |
Property Management Agreements
The Company has entered into property management agreement with the property managers under which the property managers generally oversee and direct the leasing, management and advertising of the properties in our portfolio, including collecting rents and acting as liaison with the tenants. The Company pays its property managers a monthly property management fee for each property unit and a leasing fee. For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, property management fees incurred by the property managers were $141,480 and $137,340, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, leasing fees incurred by the property managers were $74,940 and $121,900, respectively.
12. INVESTMENTS MEASURED AT FAIR VALUE
Financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below and disclosed on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2024 and 2023:
| Fair Value Measurement Using · Amount at | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 · Level 2 · Level 3 · Fair Value | |||||
| Assets | |||||
| Investment Securities- Fair Value Option | $3,565,089 | $7,463,324 | $ | - | $11,028,413 |
| Investment Securities- Trading | 2,612,293 | 2,061,230 | - | 4,673,523 | |
| Warrants - APW | - | - | 973 | 973 | |
| Warrants - VEII | - | 1,299,973 | - | 1,299,973 | |
| Warrants - SHRG | - | 13,272 | - | 13,272 | |
| Convertible Loan Receivable - VEII | - | 569,630 | - | 569,630 | |
| Convertible Loan Receivable - SHRG | - | 1,212,746 | - | 1,212,746 | |
| Total Investment in Securities at Fair Value | $6,177,382 | $12,620,175 | $973 | $18,798,530 | |
| Fair Value Measurement Using · Amount at | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 · Level 2 · Level 3 · Fair Value | |||||
| Assets | |||||
| Investment Securities- Fair Value Option | $7,537,472 | $2,100,720 | $ | - | $9,638,192 |
| Investment Securities- Trading | 35,036 | 1,779,601 | - | 1,814,637 | |
| Convertible Note Receivable | - | - | 77,307 | 77,307 | |
| Warrants - APW | - | - | 430 | 430 | |
| Warrants - VEII | - | 2,487,854 | - | 2,487,854 | |
| Convertible Loan Receivable - VEII | - | 1,207,627 | 1,207,627 | ||
| Total Investment in Securities at Fair Value | $7,572,508 | $7,575,802 | $77,737 | $15,226,047 | |
Realized gain on investment securities for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $461,247 and realized loss on investment in securities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $11,375,747. Unrealized loss on securities investment was $942,213 and $2,899,286 in the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. These losses were recorded directly to net loss. The change in fair value of the convertible note receivable in the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was $287,812 and $0 gain, respectively, and was recorded in consolidated statements of stockholders’ equity.
For U.S. trading stocks, we use Bloomberg Market stock prices as the share prices to calculate fair value. For overseas stock, we use the stock price from local stock exchange to calculate fair value. The following chart shows details of the fair value of equity security investments at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
| Share price · Market Value | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12/31/2024 | Shares | 12/31/2024 | Valuation | |
| DSS (Related Party)* | $0.900 | 3,961,210 | $3,565,089 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value |
| Trading Stock | $2,612,293 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value | ||
| Total Level 1 Equity Securities | $6,177,382 | |||
| Holista | $0.008 | 1,000 | $8 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value |
| New Electric CV (Related Party) | $0.000 | 354,039,000 | $0 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value |
| AMBS | $0.000 | 20,000,000 | $0 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value |
| Value Exchange (related Party) | $0.035 | 21,179,275 | $749,746 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value |
| Sharing Services (Related Party)** | $1.000 | 89,732 | $89,732 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value |
| Impact BioMedical (Related Party) | $1.450 | 4,568,165 | $6,623,838 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value |
| Trading Stock | $2,061,230 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value | ||
| Total Level 2 Equity Securities | $9,524,554 | |||
| Nervotech | N/A | 1,666 | $589 | Investment in Securities at Cost |
| K Beauty | N/A | 3,600 | $16,733 | Investment in Securities at Cost |
| Ideal Food and Beverages | N/A | 19,000 | $0 | Investment in Securities at Cost |
| HapiTravel Holding | N/A | 19,000 | $140 | Investment in Securities at Cost |
| Total Equity Securities | $15,719,398 | |||
| Share price · Market Value | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12/31/2023 | Shares | 12/31/2023 | Valuation | |
| DSS (Related Party)* | $2.400 | 3,140,613 | $7,537,472 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value |
| Trading Stock | $35,036 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value | ||
| Total Level 1 Equity Securities | $7,572,508 | |||
| Holista | $0.007 | 36,159,845 | $246,556 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value |
| New Electric CV (Related Party) | $0.000 | 354,039,000 | $0 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value |
| AMBS | $0.001 | 20,000,000 | $10,000 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value |
| Value Exchange (related Party) | $0.067 | 21,179,275 | $1,429,602 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value |
| Sharing Services (Related Party)** | $4.620 | 89,732 | $414,562 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value |
| Trading Stock | $1,779,601 | Investment in Securities at Fair Value | ||
| Total Level 2 Equity Securities | $3,880,321 | |||
| Nervotech | N/A | 1,666 | $37,876 | Investment in Securities at Cost |
| K Beauty | N/A | 3,600 | $16,636 | Investment in Securities at Cost |
| Total Equity Securities | $11,507,341 | |||
| * | On January 4, 2024 DSS Inc. effected a reverse stock split of 1 for 20. |
|---|
| ** | On September 13, 2024 Sharing Services effected a reverse stock split of 1 for 1,400. |
|---|
Changes in the observable input values would likely cause material changes in the fair value of the Company’s Level 3 financial instruments. A significant increase (decrease) in this likelihood would result in a higher (lower) fair value measurement.
The table below provides a summary of the changes in fair value which are recorded through other income (loss), including net transfers in and/or out of all financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023:
| Total | |
|---|---|
| Balance at January 1, 2023 | $416,164 |
| Net gain | (338,427) |
| Balance at December 31, 2023 | $77,737 |
| Impairment | (77,307) |
| Net gain | (543) |
| Balance at December 31, 2024 | $973 |
Vector Com Convertible Bond
On February 26, 2021, the Company invested approximately $88,599 in the convertible note of Vector Com Co., Ltd (“Vector Com”), a private company in South Korea. The interest rate is 2% per annum. The conversion price is approximately $21.26 per common share of Vector Com. As of December 31, 2023, the Management estimated the fair value of the note to be $77,307. The Company wrote off this loan at March 31, 2024.
Warrants
APW
On July 17, 2020, the Company purchased 122,039,000 shares, approximately 0.5% ownership, and 1,220,390,000 warrants with an exercise price of $0.0001 per share, from APW, for an aggregated purchase price of $122,039. During 2021, the Company exercised 232,000,000 of the warrants to purchase 232,000,000 shares of APW for the total consideration of $232,000, leaving the balance of outstanding warrants of 988,390,000 at December 31, 2021. The Company did not exercise any warrants during years ended December 31, 2023 and 2024. We value APW warrants under level 3 category through a Black Scholes option pricing model and the fair value of the warrants from APW was $973 as of December 31, 2024 and $430 as of December 31, 2023.
The fair value of the APW warrants under level 3 category as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 was calculated using a Black-Scholes valuation model valued with the following weighted average assumptions:
| December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| Stock Price | $0.0001 | $0.0001 |
| Exercise Price | $0.001 | $0.001 |
| Risk-free Interest Rate | 4.62% | 4.62% |
| Annualized volatility | 869.4% | 869.4% |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Year to Maturity | 5.56 | 6.56 |
VEII
On September 6, 2023, the Company received warrants to purchase shares of VEII, a related party listed company. For further details on this transaction, refer to Note 7 - Related Party Transactions,Note Receivable from a Related Party. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the fair value of the warrants was $1,299,973 and $2,487,854, respectively. The Company did not exercise any warrants during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. The Company values VEII warrants under level 3 category through a Black Scholes option pricing model.
The fair value of the VEII warrants under level 3 category as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 was calculated using a Black-Scholes valuation model valued with the following weighted average assumptions:
| December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| Stock Price | $0.0354 | $0.0677 |
| Exercise Price | $0.1770 | $0.1770 |
| Risk-free Interest Rate | 7.50% | 8.50% |
| Annualized volatility | 458.92% | 275.85% |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Year to Maturity | 3.68 | 4.68 |
SHRG
On March 20, 2024, HWH International Inc., entered into a securities purchase agreement with SHRG, pursuant to which HWH purchased from SHRG a (i) Convertible Promissory Note in the amount of $250,000, convertible into 148,810 shares of SHRG’s common stock at the option of HWH, and (ii) certain warrants exercisable into 148,810 shares of SHRG’s common stock at an exercise price of $1.68 per share, the exercise period of the warrant being five (5) years from the date of the securities purchase agreement, for an aggregate purchase price of $250,000. At the time of this filing, HWH has not converted any of the debt contemplated by the Convertible Note nor exercised any of the warrants. As of December 31, 2024, the fair value of the warrants was $53,659.
The fair value of the SHRG warrants under level 2 category as of December 31, 2024, was calculated using binomial option pricing model valued with the following weighted average assumptions:
| Stock Price | $1.0000 |
|---|---|
| Exercise Price | $1.6800 |
| Risk-free Interest Rate | 4.34% |
| Annualized volatility | 204.14% |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00 |
| Year to Maturity | 4.21 |
Convertible Loan Receivables
The Company has elected to recognize the convertible loan receivables at fair value and therefore there was no further evaluation of embedded features for bifurcation. The Company engaged third party valuation firm to perform the valuation of convertible loans. The fair value of the convertible loans is calculated using the binomial tree model based on probability of remaining as straight debt using discounted cash flow.
The following table presents summarized unaudited financial information for our investments that we elected the fair value option that would otherwise be accounted for under the equity method of accounting.
| Summarized Financial Information | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Assets | Liabilities | Net Loss | |
| APW* | $864,000 | $1,049,000 | $(63,000) |
| DSS* | $142,657,000 | $72,979,000 | $(21,016,000) |
| VEII* | $6,844,729 | $10,744,581 | $(640,853) |
| SHRG** | $6,257,230 | $10,470,791 | $(2,869,424) |
| APW | $872,000 | $837,000 | $(594,000) |
| Holista | $3,893,309 | $4,737,129 | $(2,376,748) |
| DSS | $153,192,000 | $69,978,000 | $(77,524,000) |
| VEII | $5,218,993 | $8,548,823 | $(6,734,911) |
| SHRG*** | $7,821,341 | $8,641,133 | $(6,364,992) |
| * | Data derived from Financial Statement as of September 30, 2024, which was the latest available date source we could reach. 12-month Net Loss was estimated by adding one-third of 9-month Net Loss. |
|---|---|
| ** | Data derived from Financial Statement as of September 30, 2024, which was the latest available date source we could reach. 12-month Net Loss was estimated by doubling the 6-month Net Loss. |
| *** | Data derived from Financial Statement for the nine months ended December 31, 2023. 12-month Net Loss was estimated by adding one-third of 9-month Net Loss. |
13. INCOME TAXES
US Income Taxes
The components of income tax expense and the effective tax rates for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 are as follows:
| Year Ended December 31, | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | |
| Current: | ||
| Federal | $150,786 | $92,350 |
| State | - | - |
| Total Current | 150,786 | 92,350 |
| Deferred: | ||
| Federal | (1,821,412) | 6,176,130 |
| State | (342,691) | (454,675) |
| Total Deferred | (2,164,103) | 5,721,455 |
| Valuation Allowance | 2,164,103 | (5,721,455) |
| Total Income Tax Expense | $150,786 | $92,350 |
| Pre-tax Loss | $(4,015,030) | $(61,186,383) |
| Effective Income Tax Rate | -3.8% | -0.2% |
A reconciliation of our income tax expense at federal statutory income tax rate of 21% to our income tax expense at the effective tax rate is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31, | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | |
| Federal Statutory Tax Rate | 21.0% | 21.0% |
| Capitalized Construction Costs | 3.0% | 1.5% |
| Deferred Finance Costs | -0.6% | -4.0% |
| Miscellaneous Permanent Items | -1.4% | 0.0% |
| Non-Includible Foreign Entities Loss/(Income) | -27.4% | -7.9% |
| Valuation Allowance | 1.6% | -10.8% |
| Effective Income Tax Rate | -3.8% | -0.2% |
Deferred tax assets consist of the following at December 31, 2024 and 2023:
| 2024 · 2023 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deferred Tax Assets: | ||||
| Accrued Interest Expense | $6,560,893 | $6,310,548 | ||
| Accrued Expense | 600,224 | 423,311 | ||
| Accrued Other Income | 1,596,154 | 145,017 | ||
| Partnership Gain | 13,175 | 13,175 | ||
| Real Estate Impairment | 114,432 | 729,312 | ||
| Other Amortization | 1,160,710 | 1,160,710 | ||
| Unrealized Loss on Investment | 10,351,184 | 9,856,139 | ||
| Others | 887,084 | 208,676 | ||
| Net Operating Loss | 1,096,627 | 2,846,999 | ||
| Total Deferred Tax Assets: | $22,380,483 | $21,693,887 | ||
| Deferred Tax Liabilities: | ||||
| Accrued Interest Income | (7,813,704) | (7,148,090) | ||
| Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization | (204,061) | (204,192) | ||
| Capitalized Costs | (2,185,216) | |||
| Total Deferred Tax Assets: | $(10,202,981) | $(7,352,282) | ||
| Deferred Tax Assets / (Liabilities), Net | 12,177,502 | 14,341,605 | ||
| Less Valuation Allowance | (12,177,502) | (14,341,605) | ||
| Deferred Tax Asset c/f | $ | - | $ | - |
As of December 31, 2024, the Company has Federal and State net operating loss carry-forwards of approximately $14.79 million and $5.12 million, respectively. The full utilization of the deferred tax assets in the future is dependent upon the Company’s ability to generate taxable income. Accordingly, a valuation allowance of an equal amount has been established. During the year ended December 31, 2024, the valuation allowance decreased by $2,164,103.
As of December 31, 2024, total tax payable is $115,335, including federal income tax payable of $147,558, and Maryland state income tax receivable of $32,223. As of December 31, 2023, total tax payable is $1,390, including federal income tax payable of $33,613, and Maryland state income tax receivable of $32,223.
We are subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of certain state jurisdictions. We have substantially concluded all U.S. federal income tax and state tax matters through 2020. However, our federal tax returns for the years 2021 through 2023 remain open to examination. State tax jurisdiction tax years remain open to examination as well, though we believe that any additional assessment would be immaterial to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Income taxes – Other Countries
On December 31, 2024 and 2023, foreign subsidiaries have tax losses of approximately $1.4 million and $0.9 million, respectively, which are available for offset against future taxable profits, subject to the agreement of the tax authorities and compliance with the relevant provisions. The deferred tax assets arising from these tax losses have not been recognized because it is not probable that future taxable profits will be available to use these tax assets. The following charts show the details in different regions as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
As of December 31, 2024:
| SG Companies · HK Companies · KR Companies · AU Companies · PRC Companies · TW Companies · MYS Companies · Total | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calculation: | ||||||||||||||||
| Cumulative loss and other deferred tax assets before tax | $(3,507,971) | $(2,227,364) | $(1,257,412) | $ | - | $(446,024) | $(208,516) | $(3,947) | $7,651,234) | |||||||
| Effective tax rates | 17.00% | 16.50% | 25.00% | 30.00% | 25.00% | 25.00% | 17.00% | - | ||||||||
| Tax at the domestic tax rates applicable to profits in the countries where the Company operates | $(596,355) | $(367,515) | $(314,353) | $ | - | $(111,506) | $(52,129) | $(671) | $(1,442,529) | |||||||
| Adjustments: | ||||||||||||||||
| Deferred tax assets not recognized | $596,355 | $367,515 | $314,353 | $ | - | $111,506 | $52,129 | $671 | $1,442,529 | |||||||
| Income tax expenses recognized in profit or loss | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - |
As of December 31, 2023:
| SG Companies · HK Companies · KR Companies · AU Companies · Total | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calculation: | ||||||||||
| Cumulative loss and other deferred tax assets before tax | $(5,016,561) | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $(5,016,561) | ||
| Effective tax rates | 17.00% | 16.50% | 25.00% | 30.00% | ||||||
| Tax at the domestic tax rates applicable to profits in the countries where the Company operates | $(852,815) | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $(852,815) | ||
| Adjustments: | ||||||||||
| Deferred tax assets not recognized | $852,815 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $852,815 | ||
| Income tax expenses recognized in profit or loss | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - |
14. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Leases
The Company leases offices in Maryland, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Korea and China through leased spaces aggregating approximately 20,337 square feet, under leases expiring on various dates from July 2025 to April 2029. The leases have rental rates ranging from $2,267 to $23,020 per month. Our total rent expense under these office leases was $1,192,776 and $1,087,585 in 2024 and 2023, respectively. The total cash paid for the leases was $1,202,866 and $1,076,326 for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. The following table outlines the details of lease terms:
| Office Location | Lease Term as of December 31, 2024 |
|---|---|
| Singapore - AI | June 2023 to May 2026 |
| Singapore – F&B | October 2024 to September 2027 |
| Singapore – Hapi Cafe | July 2024 to June 2026 |
| South Korea - Hapi Café | August 2022 to August 2025 |
| South Korea - HWH World | August 2022 to July 2025 |
| Bethesda, Maryland, USA | April 2024 to March 2027 |
| China - Office | March 2023 to March 2027 |
| China - Shop | June 2024 to April 2029 |
| Taiwan - Cafe | May 2024 to October 2027 |
| Taiwan - Office | August 2024 to August 2026 |
The Company adopted ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) (“ASU 2016-02”) to recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for all the leases with terms greater than twelve months. We elected the practical expedient to not recognize operating lease right-of-use assets and operating lease liabilities for lease agreements with terms of 12 months or less. Operating lease right-of-use assets and operating lease liabilities are recognized based on the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term at commencement date. As our leases do not provide a readily determinable implicit rates, we estimate our incremental borrowing rates to discount the lease payments based on information available at lease commencement. Our incremental borrowings rates are at a range from 2.59% to 7.22% per annum in 2024 and 2023, which were used as the discount rates. At December 31, 2024 the weighted average remaining lease term is 2.22 years and weighted average discount rate is 3.70%. The balances of operating lease right-of-use assets and operating lease liabilities as of December 31, 2024 were $1,468,913 and $1,525,169. The balances of operating lease right-of-use assets and operating lease liabilities as of December 31, 2023 were $1,467,372 and $1,499,263, respectively.
The table below summarizes future payments due under these leases as of December 31, 2024.
For the Years Ended December 31:
| 2025 | $823,069 |
| 2026 | 532,560 |
| 2027 | 229,286 |
| 2028 | 30,994 |
| 2029 | 10,498 |
| Total Minimum Lease Payments | 1,626,407 |
| Less: Effect of Discounting | (101,238) |
| Present Value of Future Minimum Lease Payments | 1,525,169 |
| Less: Current Obligations under Leases | (531,885) |
| Long-term Lease Obligations | $993,284 |
Lots Sales Agreement
Certain arrangements for the sale of buildable lots to NVR require the Company to credit NVR with an amount equal to one year of the FFB assessment. Under ASC 606, the credits to NVR are not in exchange for a distinct good or service and accordingly, the amount of the credit was recognized as the reduction of revenue. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the accrued balance due to NVR was $0 and $189,475.
Security Deposits
Our rental-home lease agreements require tenants to provide a one-month security deposits. The property management company collects all security deposits and maintains them in a trust account. The Company also has obligation to refund these deposits to the renters at the time of lease termination. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the security deposits held in the trust account were $303,518 and $309,688, respectively.
15. DIRECTORS AND EMPLOYEES’ BENEFITS
Alset International Stock Option plans
On November 20, 2013, Alset International approved a Stock Option Plan (the “2013 Plan”). Employees, executive directors, and non-executive directors (including the independent directors) are eligible to participate in the 2013 Plan.
The following tables summarize stock option activity under the 2013 Plan for the year ended December 31, 2024:
| Options for Common Shares · Exercise Price · Remaining Contractual Term (Years) · Aggregate Intrinsic Value | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outstanding as of January 1, 2023 | 1,061,333 | $0.09 | 1.00 | $ | - | |
| Vested and exercisable at January 1, 2023 | 1,061,333 | $0.09 | 1.00 | $ | - | |
| Granted | - | - | ||||
| Exercised | - | - | ||||
| Forfeited, cancelled, expired | (1,061,333) | 0.09 | ||||
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2023 | - | $ | - | - | $ | - |
| Vested and exercisable at December 31, 2023 | - | $ | - | - | $ | - |
| Granted | - | - | ||||
| Exercised | - | - | ||||
| Forfeited, cancelled, expired | - | - | ||||
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2024 | - | $ | - | - | $ | - |
| Vested and exercisable at December 31, 2024 | - | $ | - | - | $ | - |
16. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Offering
On January 2, 2025, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with certain accredited investors (the “Purchasers”), pursuant to which the Company agreed to sell and issue to the Purchasers an aggregate of 1,500,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share, at a purchase price of $1.00 per share, in a registered direct offering (the “Offering”).
The Offering was made pursuant to the Company’s existing shelf registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“Commission”) on April 11, 2022, and declared effective by the Commission on May 5, 2022. A prospectus supplement to the Registration Statement was filed with the Commission on January 3, 2025.
The closing of the Offering occurred on January 3, 2025. The Company received net proceeds from the Offering of approximately $1,200,000, after deducting offering expenses payable of approximately $300,000, including the placement agent fees. The Company expects to use the net proceeds from the Offering for working capital and general corporate purposes.
In connection with the Offering, the Company entered into a Placement Agency Agreement with Aegis Capital Corp. (the “Placement Agent”), as the exclusive placement agent in connection with the Offering. As compensation to the Placement Agent, the Company paid the Placement Agent a cash fee of 7% of the aggregate gross proceeds raised in the Offering and reimbursed certain expenses of the Placement Agent.
Loan Agreements with SHRG
On January 15, 2025, HWH International Inc. (“HWH”) entered into a Loan Agreement (the “Loan Agreement”) with Sharing Services Global Corp., an affiliate of the Company (“SHRG”), under which HWH provided a loan to SHRG in the amount of $150,000. HWH may convert a portion or all of the outstanding balance due under the loan into shares of SHRG’s common stock at the average closing market price of SHRG stock within the last three (3) days from the date of maturity of the Loan Agreement, January 15, 2026. The Loan Agreement bears an 8% interest rate.
On March 31, 2025, HWH entered into a securities purchase agreement with Sharing Services Global Corporation (“SHRG”), pursuant to which SHRG issued a convertible promissory note to HWH in the amount of $150,000, the indebtedness thereunder being convertible into SHRG common stock at $0.80 per share at HWH’s option until maturity of the convertible note three (3) years from the date of the securities purchase agreement. Further, SHRG granted HWH warrants exercisable into 937,500 shares of SHRG common stock, the exercise period of the warrants being three (3) years from the date of the securities purchase agreement at an exercise price of $0.85 per share.
2025 Incentive Compensation Plan
On February 13, 2025, our Board and Majority Shareholders approved and ratified the Company’s 2025 Incentive Compensation Plan (the “2025 Plan”), covering up to 2,147,024 shares of common stock. The purpose of the 2025 Plan is to advance the interests of the Company and our related corporations by enhancing the ability of the Company to attract and retain qualified employees, consultants, officers, and directors, by creating incentives and rewards for their contributions to the success of the Company and its related corporations. The 2025 Plan is administered by our Board or by the Compensation Committee. The 2025 Plan was put into effect on March 17, 2025.
Loan to VEII
Value Exchange International, Inc. (“VEII”) made a Convertible Promissory Note (the “Note”) in the amount of $30,000, dated as of March 28, 2025, to the Company as consideration for a loan in the same amount. The indebtedness can be converted into shares of VEII pursuant to the terms of the Note for a period of two years from the date of the Note. In the event that the Company converts all or a portion of the indebtedness into shares of VEII Common Stock, the conversion price shall be $0.0166 per share.
The text of this filing, as the company filed it with the SEC, without its images or exhibits. This is not investment advice.