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EX-32.2 - EXHIBIT 32.2 - TARONIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC.v433397_ex32-2.htm
EX-21.1 - EXHIBIT 21.1 - TARONIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC.v433397_ex21-1.htm
EX-31.1 - EXHIBIT 31.1 - TARONIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC.v433397_ex31-1.htm
EX-32.1 - EXHIBIT 32.1 - TARONIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC.v433397_ex32-1.htm
EX-31.2 - EXHIBIT 31.2 - TARONIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC.v433397_ex31-2.htm
EX-10.16 - EXHIBIT 10.16 - TARONIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC.v433397_ex10-16.htm

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549

 

FORM 10-K

 

(Mark One)

 

x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015

 

or

 

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from ______________ to ______________

 

Commission file number: 001-35586

 

MagneGas Corporation
( Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter )

 

Delaware   26-0250418

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

  (I. R. S. Employer Identification No.)

 

150 Rainville Road Tarpon Springs, FL   34689
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code : (727) 934-3448

 

Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class:   Name of each exchange on which registered:
Common Stock, par value $0. 001   The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC

 

Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Act:

(Title of class)

None

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 the Securities Act. Yes ¨      No x

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ¨       No x

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x       No ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232. 405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes x       No ¨

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229. 405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer.   ¨ Accelerated filer.   ¨

Non-accelerated filer.   ¨

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Smaller reporting company.  x

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes ¨       No x

 

Aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates (34,071,404) computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold ($1.20), or the average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter (June 30, 2015): $40,885,684.80

 

Number of the issuer’s common stock outstanding as of March 18, 2016: 45,749,534

 

Documents incorporated by reference: None.

 

 

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

    Page
Part I
     
Item 1. Business. 4
Item 1A. Risk Factors. 8
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments. 17
Item 2. Properties. 17
Item 3. Legal Proceedings. 17
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures. 17
     
Part II
   
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities. 17
Item 6. Selected Financial Data. 19
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation. 19
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk. 22
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. F-1
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure. 23
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures. 23
Item 9B. Other Information. 24
     
Part III
     
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance. 25
Item 11. Executive Compensation. 31
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters. 33
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence. 36
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services. 37
     
Part IV
   
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules. 38
     
Signatures  40

 

 2 

 

 

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This Annual Report on Form 10-K (this “Report”) contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Forward-looking statements discuss matters that are not historical facts. Because they discuss future events or conditions, forward-looking statements may include words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “intend,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “may,” “seek,” “plan,” “might,” “will,” “expect,” “predict,” “project,” “forecast,” “potential,” “continue” negatives thereof or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are found at various places throughout this Report and include information concerning possible or assumed future results of our operations; business strategies; future cash flows; financing plans; plans and objectives of management; any other statements regarding future operations, future cash needs, business plans and future financial results, and any other statements that are not historical facts.

 

From time to time, forward-looking statements also are included in our other periodic reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K, in our press releases, in our presentations, on our website and in other materials released to the public. Any or all of the forward-looking statements included in this Report and in any other reports or public statements made by us are not guarantees of future performance and may turn out to be inaccurate. These forward-looking statements represent our intentions, plans, expectations, assumptions and beliefs about future events and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors. Many of those factors are outside of our control and could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied by those forward-looking statements. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than we have described. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this Report. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning other matters addressed in this Report and attributable to us or any person acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to in this Report.

 

Except to the extent required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, a change in events, conditions, circumstances or assumptions underlying such statements, or otherwise.

 

For discussion of factors that we believe could cause our actual results to differ materially from expected and historical results see “Item 1A — Risk Factors” below.

 

CERTAIN TERMS USED IN THIS REPORT

 

When this report uses the words “we,” “us,” “our,” and the “Company,” they refer to MagneGas Corporation and our wholly-owned subsidiaries. “SEC” refers to the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

 3 

 

 

PART I

 

Item 1.      Business.

 

Our Company

 

We are a technology company that produces a plasma based system for the gasification and sterilization of liquid waste. A byproduct of our process is a hydrogen based fuel that we sell for metal cutting as an alternative to acetylene (“MagneGas2®”). In addition, we are developing the use of our fuel for co-combustion with hydrocarbon fuels to reduce emissions. We also market, for sale or licensure, our proprietary plasma arc technology for the processing of liquid waste (the “Plasma Arc Flow® System”). Through the course of our business development, we have established a retail and distribution platform to sell our fuel for use in the metalworking industries; we have developed a global network of brokers to sell our system for processing liquid waste and we are testing our fuel through a third party laboratory for use in the reduction of coal emissions. Additionally, we intend to acquire other gas distribution businesses in order to become a larger distributor of MagneGas2®, other industrial gases and related equipment.

 

MagneGas Corporation was organized in the state of Delaware on December 9, 2005. We were originally organized under the name 4307, Inc., for the purpose of locating and negotiating with a business entity for a combination. On April 2, 2007 all the issued and outstanding shares of 4307, Inc. were purchased by Clean Energies Tech Co., a private company owned by Dr. Ruggero Santilli, the inventor of the Plasma Arc Flow® technology. Following this stock purchase, our name was changed to MagneGas Corporation.

 

Our Products

 

We currently have three products: the fuel called MagneGas2® for the metal working industry, the equipment primarily known in the firefighting industry, known as MagneTote, and the machines that produce MagneGas2®, known as Plasma Arc Flow® refineries. In addition, the Company sells metal cutting fuels and ancillary products through its wholly owned subsidiary, Equipment Sales and Service, Inc. (“ESSI”), a Florida corporation.

 

While our original fuel for the metal working industry was known as MagneGas®, we started selling MagneGas2® in July 2014 and stopped selling MagneGas® in March 2015.

 

Fuel

 

In the United States, we currently produce MagneGas2®, which is comprised primarily of hydrogen. The fuel can be used as an alternative to natural gas to power industrial equipment, automobiles and for metal cutting. The fuel is stored in hydrogen cylinders which are then sold to market on a rotating basis. Independent tests have confirmed that it cuts 38% faster than acetylene. The fuel has similar properties as acetylene making it easier for end users to adopt with limited training.

 

MagneTote is a storage and transport system that can be used by firefighters, military and first responders which allows quicker access to fuel. The system has been designed to be used in emergency extraction situations.

 

Equipment

 

The Plasma Arc Flow® System can gasify many forms of liquids and liquid waste such as used vegetable oils, ethylene glycol and sewage and sludge. Plasma Arc Flow® refineries have been configured in various sizes ranging from 50kw to 500kw depending on the application. Plasma Arc Flow® refineries range in price from $500,000 to $5 Million.

 

The Company is pursuing three major market segments:

 

·Industrial Gas Sales

 

·Equipment Sales for Liquid Waste Processing

 

·Use of MagneGas2® for the Co-Combustion of Hydro-Carbon Fuels to Reduce Emissions

 

The Company’s Research and Development focuses on the following:

 

·High volume processing of oil

 

·Combustion of MagneGas2® with hydrocarbon fuels, such as coal, to reduce emission

 

·Third party verification of fuel and equipment safety and performance results

 

 4 

 

 

Sales

 

Industrial Gas Sales

 

ESSI is being used as a launching platform to accelerate MagneGas2® fuel sales into the Florida market by allowing the Company access to a variety of goods and services for the metal working market and access to acetylene customers for potential conversion into MagneGas2®. In 2015, ESSI had sales of $2,383,981 which includes MagneGas2® fuel sales.

 

ESSI operates a business of sales and distribution of industrial gases and related equipment from its headquarters in Pinellas Park, Florida.

 

Additionally, we intend to acquire other gas distribution businesses in order to become a larger distributor of MagneGas2®, other industrial gases and related equipment.

 

The Company has a strategy of selling fuel to the military, the first responder market and major marquee customers in the electric utility and waste to energy industry. The fuel is sourced through ESSI or through local distributor relationships in various states. To that end it has received initial fuel orders from several major customers including utility companies, a transportation company, the U.S. Navy, the Fire Department of New York and several others. All of these sales have long sales cycles as initial orders have been received and filled and the Company is in various stages of the procurement process for additional penetration and recurring orders. The ramp of period for these customers can range from several weeks to several months. In addition, the Company has signed an exclusive distribution agreement with a Florida company to distribute fuel and MagneTote to the first responder market throughout the Southeastern United States.

 

Equipment Sales

 

The Company is pursuing international equipment sales in strategic areas of the world through social media, industry events and a network of independent brokers. The Company also retained two experienced consultants for this market, one with substantial experience in waste-water and hazardous waste remediation and the other with international access to funding and partners through the United Nations.

 

On November 11, 2015, the Company executed agreements with Green Arc Supply of Louisiana for the sale of a MagneGas2® gasification system for $765,000. A deposit of $382,500 was received at the execution of the agreements with $191,500 due and payable when the system construction is 75% complete, balance due and payable upon the completion of the system construction. The Company has until August 2016 to complete the manufacture of the system.

 

MagneGas2® for the Co-Combustion of Hydro-Carbon Fuels to Reduce Emissions

 

The Company has completed internal testing both in the United States and Australia of the effect of combusting MagneGas2® with hydrocarbon fuel exhaust and has demonstrated reduced hydrocarbon emission and increased heat with the co-combustion of coal and other hydrocarbon fuels and MagneGas2®.

 

On September 13, 2014 the Company and FuturEnergy PTY, LTD of Australia signed a term sheet in order to form a Joint Venture (“JV LLC Australia”) for the purposes of pursuing the co-combustion of MagneGas2® fuel with hydrocarbon fuels to reduce emissions. Under the terms of the agreement, each owner of JV LLC Australia controls 50% of the rights to all hydrocarbon fuel emission reductions through co-combustion of MagneGas2® fuel including diesel, gasoline and coal.

 

On March 20, 2015, the Company and FuturEnergy PTY, LTD finalized a term sheet (the “March 2015 Term Sheet”) with a confidential party from Michigan for a tri-party joint venture implemented through a Delaware limited liability company (the “JV LLC”). Each party owns one-third of the JV LLC which is engaged in the worldwide testing, development, and pursuit of the co-combustion of MagneGas2® with coal and coal by-products in the electric power plant industry. The March 2015 Term Sheet was due to expire on December 31, 2015 unless the three parties agreed to extend the term. During the week of December 14, 2015, the JV LLC successfully tested the co-combustion technology internally. On December 26, 2015, the parties agreed to extend the March 2015 Term Sheet until December 31, 2016. The extension allows the parties to attain verification by an independent agency of the co-combustion technology by December 31, 2016.

 

A major research center in the United States associated with a large utility company is currently conducting third party testing and validation. The accident at the Company headquarters on April 16, 2015 (please see below under the heading “Accident at Company Facility”) has delayed the supply of fuel for this testing. In late 2015 we began production again of the fuel needed for the co-combustion testing. It is now anticipated that this validation report will be received by June 30, 2016. There are, however, many variables associated with the timing of this report. In late 2015, the Company identified the specific fuel characteristics needed to optimize combustion, which is a significant development for this project.

 

Research and Development

 

High Volume Processing of Oil

 

The Company has historically processed oil through the addition of water or other dilution, which limits the volume of oil processed and decreases the flame temperature. There are several customers that have requested larger volume processing of oil based waste. The Company has spent considerable effort to achieve lower dilution levels and higher volume processing and has made significant progress to date. This research resulted in an entirely new family of MagneGas2® gasifiers based on the Venturi® system for which MagneGas filed a definitive patent and for which a prototype system was completed in 2014. In late 2015, the Company achieved continually processing of oil at a commercial level and is now utilizing the Venturi® system to produce MagneGas2® fuel for the metal working market from oil liquids.

 

 5 

 

 

Sterilization System for Agricultural Use

 

In early 2015, the Company completed a new generation of mobile systems for use with the sterilization of manures and sewage waste. It has developed a new 50kw Venturi System which was tested at a major hog farm in Indiana. The Company has conducted multiple successful tests at the farm with increasing flow and efficiency rates. The pilot plant achieved what was expected, namely it achieved full sterilization of manures processed through the 50kw pilot system. The Company made a presentation to officials at the United States Department of Agriculture in early 2016. The officials indicated that there are grant programs available for these types of projects and the Company has retained a consultant to assist through the grant application process which is expected to be completed by June 30, 2016.

 

Manufacturing

 

Equipment

 

MagneGas2® systems are assembled by us at our facility in Tarpon Springs, Florida. The proprietary components of the system are manufactured on location, while commercially available components such as generators and compressors are purchased from existing suppliers and assembled in Tarpon Springs. The Company purchased a new facility in Clearwater, Florida in September 2014 and the Company plans to relocate its headquarters to this new location in April of 2016.

 

Fuel

 

MagneGas currently has the ability to produce fuel in Florida and ship the fuel to its various distributors. The fuel is compressed into standard industrial gas cylinders and delivered directly to local retail customers and distributors.

 

Current MagneGas2® production is from a feedstock of vegetable oil or other proprietary feedstock blends. We are currently working to enhance our ability to process and compress fuels from waste oils on a high volume basis.

 

Customers

 

We distribute products through several industrial gas companies in California, Michigan, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, and Pennsylvania. In addition, we have direct retail customers in Florida and New York.

 

In October of 2014 the Company purchased ESSI. ESSI is the distribution arm for MagneGas2® fuel on a retail level in central Florida.

 

On May 28, 2015, the Company announced that it formed a subsidiary Joint Venture “Kickin Gas Partners” to distribute MagneGas2® fuel, welding gas and supplies into North Florida. Under the terms of the agreement, the Company will own 50% of the new Joint Venture which will establish a new location in North Florida for distribution and retail sales. The new location was established in December 2015 and is actively selling fuel and hard goods.

 

International Expansion

 

The Company is working with several potential private and public partners in Europe, Sierra Leone, Haiti, Trinidad, Mexico, South Africa, and others for various initiatives surrounding the sale of MagneGas2® equipment and fuel for metal cutting and cooking alternatives. Several grant applications have been submitted to support these relationships and fuel demonstrations have been completed. The Company is in various stages of negotiation with potential partners from these regions.

 

Navy

 

The U. S. Navy has been working with us to explore both the use of MagneGas2® for metal working and the use of the Plasma Arc Flow® System for liquid waste processing. The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences, a testing contractor for the U. S. Navy, completed testing of MagneGas® as an environmentally-friendly alternative for major metal cutting projects, particularly to reduce emissions during the breakup and recycling of retiring vessels. The final written report compared seven methods and gases for metal cutting to find the lowest opacity and showed MagneGas® as one of the only two methods with positive results. An independent laboratory tested MagneGas2® vs acetylene on 2 inch plate and found that it cut 38% faster and consumed 30% less oxygen. A test conducted at a Naval facility concluded that MagneGas2® cut 100% faster than acetylene. The Company announced on May 15, 2015 that the Navy placed their first order of MagneGas2® fuel. The Company is working through the procurement process with the Navy to place additional recurring orders. This procurement process can be lengthy and the Company does not know the timing of this process.

 

 6 

 

 

 

Facilities

 

We presently lease 5,000 square feet for our principal offices at 150 Rainville Road, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 on a month-to-month basis. The Company owns property at 1440 Rainville Road for expansion and further manufacturing capability. The Company purchased a new facility in Clearwater, Florida in September 2014 and the Company plans to relocate its headquarters to this new location in April of 2016.

 

Intellectual Property

 

The Plasma Arc Flow® refinery forces a high volume flow of liquid waste through an electric arc between carbon electrodes. The benefit of this from a competitive perspective is that it sterilizes the bio-contaminants within the waste without the need to add any chemical disinfecting agents. In addition, while sterilizing the liquid, a clean burning fuel is produced. In addition to the patents list below, the Company has several patents pending.

 

MagneGas Corporation has patent ownership on the technology in the United States and is exploring filing patents under the Patent Cooperation Treaty in other areas of the world as needed. MagneGas Corporation has a 20% ownership interest in MagneGas entities that control the intellectual property in Europe, Africa and China. MagneGas Corporation owns the following U. S. patents:

 

U. S. Patent No. 6,926,872 – issued on August 9, 2005, expires 2021, entitled “Apparatus and Method for Producing a Clean Burning Combustible Gas With Long Life Electrodes and Multiple Plasma-Arc-Flows;”

 

U. S. Patent No. 6,972,118 – issued on December 6, 2005, expires 2021, entitled “Apparatus and Method for Processing Hydrogen, Oxygen and Other Gases;”

 

U. S. Patent No. 7,780,924 – issued August 24, 2010, expires 2026, entitled “Operating Under High Power, Pressure and Temperature Conditions to Produce a Combustible Gas;”

 

U. S. Patent No. 8,236,150 – issued on August 20, 2012, expires 2030, entitled, “Plasma-Arc-Through Apparatus and Process for Submerged Electric Arcs;”

 

U.S. Patent No. 6183604 – issued on August 11, 1999, expires 2019, entitled “Durable and Efficient Equipment for the Production of Combustible Fuels;”

 

U.S. Patent No. 6540966 – issued on June 5, 2000, expires in 2020, entitled “Apparatus and Method for Recycling Contaminated Liquid;”

 

U.S. Patent No. 6673322 – issued June 29, 2001, expires 2021, entitled “Apparatus for Making a Highly Efficient, Oxygen Rich Fuels;” and

 

U.S. Patent No. 6663752 – issued October 3, 2001, expires 2021, entitled “Clean Burning Liquid Fuel Produced Via a Self Sustaining Processing of Liquid Feedstock.”

 

We also own the United States and Mexico Trademark for "MAGNEGAS” and have filed several provisional and patent applications.

 

Accident at Company Facility

 

On April 16, 2015, there was an accident at the Company’s facilities which occurred during the gas filling process. As a result of the accident, one employee was killed and one was injured but has recovered and has returned to work. Although the Company has Workers Compensation Insurance and General Liability Insurance, the financial impact of the accident is unknown at this time. No customers have terminated their relationship with the Company as a result of the accident. On October 14, 2015 the Company received their final report from the Occupational and Safety Hazard Administration (“OSHA”) related to the accident at the Company headquarters on April 16, 2015.  The OSHA report included findings, many of which were already resolved and a proposed citation. The Company was not cited for any willful misconduct and no final determination was made as to the cause of the accident.  The Company received citations related to various operational with a total fine of $52,000. The Company has also been informed by the U.S. Department of Transportation that it has closed its preliminary investigation with no findings or citations to the Company. The U.S. Department of Transportation has the right to re-open the investigation should new information become available.

 

The Company is still investigating the cause of the accident and there have been no conclusive findings as of this time.  It is unknown whether the final cause of the accident will be determined and whether those findings will negatively impact Company operations or sales.  The Company continues to be fully operational and transparent with all regulatory agencies.

 

Employees

 

We presently have thirty nine full-time employees. We occasionally have leased employees and independent technicians perform production and other duties, as required. We consider our relationship with our employees to be excellent.

 

 7 

 

 

Item 1A.    Risk Factors.

 

RISK FACTORS

 

An investment in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully consider the risks described below, together with all of the other information included in this annual report, before making an investment decision. If any of the following risks actually occurs, our business, financial condition or results of operations could suffer. In that case, the trading price of our shares of common stock could decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment. You should read the section entitled “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” for a discussion of what types of statements are forward-looking statements, as well as the significance of such statements in the context of this annual report.

 

Risks Relating to Our Business

 

There can be no assurance that we can achieve or maintain profitability.

 

The likelihood of our success must be considered in light of the problems, expenses, difficulties, complications and delays that we may encounter because we are a small business. As a result, we may not be profitable and we may not be able to generate sufficient revenue to develop as we have planned.

 

Our ability to achieve and maintain profitability and positive cash flow will be dependent upon:

 

management’s ability to maintain the technology and skills necessary for our fuel conversion services;
our ability to keep abreast of changes by government agencies and in the law, particularly in the areas of intellectual property and environmental regulation;

 

 8 

 

 

our ability to attract customers who require the products and services we offer;
our ability to generate revenues through the sale of our products and services to potential clients; and
our ability to manage the logistics and operations of our company and the distribution of our products and services.

 

We have had operating losses since formation and expect to incur net losses for the near term.

 

We reported a net loss of $9,141,498 for the year ended December 31, 2015 as compared to a net loss of $7,152,452 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014. We currently use approximately $460,000 per month to fund operations. We anticipate that we will lose money in the near term and we may not be able to achieve profitable operations. In order to achieve profitable operations we need to secure sales of fuel and Plasma Arc Flow® System. We anticipate the need to raise additional capital in the near term to satisfy our plan of operations.

 

We will need additional funding to continue operations, which may not be available to us on favorable terms or at all.

 

To date, we have generated only limited revenue from our products and have not achieved positive cash flows or profitability. We expect to continue to incur significant operating losses for the foreseeable future as we incur costs associated with the continuation of our research and development programs, expand our sales and marketing capabilities, increase manufacturing of our products, pursue potential acquisitions and comply with the requirements related to being a U. S. public company listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market. As a result, additional funding will be needed and it may not be available on terms favorable to us, or at all. If we raise additional funding through the issuance of equity securities, our stockholders may suffer dilution and our ability to use our net operating losses to offset future income may be limited. If we raise additional funding through debt financing, we may be required to accept terms that restrict our ability to incur additional indebtedness, require us to use our cash to make payments under such indebtedness, force us to maintain specified liquidity or other ratios or restrict our ability to pay dividends or make acquisitions. If we are unable to secure additional funding, our development programs and our commercialization efforts would be delayed, reduced or eliminated, our relationships with our suppliers and customers may be harmed, and we may not be able to continue our operations.

 

The growth of our business depends upon the development and successful commercial acceptance of our products.

 

We depend upon a variety of factors to ensure that our MagneGas2® and the Plasma Arc Flow® System are successfully commercialized, including timely and efficient completion of design and development, implementation of manufacturing processes, and effective sales, marketing, and customer service. Because of the complexity of our products, significant delays may occur between development, introduction to the market and volume production phases.

 

The development and commercialization of MagneGas2® and the Plasma Arc Flow® System involves many difficulties, including:

 

retention and hiring of appropriate operational, research and development personnel;
determination of the products’ technical specifications;
successful completion of the development process;
successful marketing of MagneGas2® and the Plasma Arc Flow System® and achieving customer acceptance;
managing inventory levels, logistics and operations; and
additional customer service and warranty costs associated with supporting product modifications and/or subsequent potential field upgrades.

 

We must expend significant financial and management resources to develop and market MagneGas2® and the Plasma Arc Flow System®. We cannot assure that we will receive meaningful revenue from these investments. If we are unable to continue to successfully develop or modify our products in response to customer requirements or technological changes, or our products are not commercially successful, our business may be harmed.

 

 9 

 

 

Acquisitions constitute a key aspect of our growth strategy, and our potential inability to successfully integrate newly acquired companies or businesses could adversely affect our financial results.

 

We may pursue acquisitions of other companies or their businesses in the future. Acquisitions are a key aspect of our growth strategy and, as a result, there can be no assurance that these transactions will be successful from an integration or financial perspective. If we complete acquisitions, we face many risks commonly encountered with growth through these transactions. These risks include:

 

·incurring significantly higher than anticipated capital expenditures and operating expenses;

 

·failing to assimilate the operations, customers, and personnel of the acquired company or business;

 

·disrupting our ongoing business;

 

·dissipating our management resources;

 

·dilution to existing stockholders from the issuance of equity securities;

 

·liabilities or other problems associated with the acquired business;

 

·incurring debt on terms unfavorable to us or that we are unable to repay;

 

·becoming subject to adverse tax consequences, substantial depreciation or deferred compensation charges;

 

·improper compliance with laws of foreign jurisdictions;

 

·failing to maintain uniform standards, controls and policies; and

 

·impairing relationships with employees and customers as a result of changes in management.

 

Fully integrating an acquired company or business into our operations may take a significant amount of time. We cannot assure you that we will be successful in overcoming these risks or any other problems encountered with acquisitions. To the extent we do not successfully avoid or overcome the risks or problems related to any acquisition, our results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected. Future acquisitions also could impact our financial position and capital needs, and could cause substantial fluctuations in our quarterly and yearly results of operations. Acquisitions could include significant goodwill and intangible assets, which may result in future impairment charges that would reduce our stated earnings. 

 

Failure to comply with government regulations will severely limit our sales opportunities and future revenue.

 

Failure to obtain operating permits, or otherwise to comply with federal and state regulatory and environmental requirements, could affect our abilities to market and sell MagneGas2® and the Plasma Arc Flow System® and could have a material adverse effect on our business and operations.

 

We and our customers may be required to comply with a number of federal, state and local laws and regulations in the areas of safety, health and environmental controls. To the extent we intend to market the Plasma Arc Flow® System internationally, we will be required to comply with laws and regulations and, when applicable, obtain permits in those other countries.

 

We cannot be certain that we will be able to obtain or maintain, required permits and approvals, that new or more stringent environmental regulations will not be enacted or that if they are, that we will be able to meet the stricter standards.

 

The preparation of our financial statements involves use of estimates, judgments and assumptions, and our financial statements may be materially affected if our estimates prove to be inaccurate.

 

Financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP require the use of estimates, judgments, and assumptions that affect the reported amounts. Different estimates, judgments, and assumptions reasonably could be used that would have a material effect on the financial statements, and changes in these estimates, judgments, and assumptions are likely to occur from period to period in the future. These estimates, judgments, and assumptions are inherently uncertain, and, if they prove to be wrong, then we face the risk that charges to income will be required.

 

Our technology is unproven on a large-scale industrial basis and could fail to perform in an industrial production environment.

 

The Plasma Arc Flow® System has never been utilized on a large-scale industrial basis. All of the tests that we have conducted to date with respect to our technology have been performed on limited quantities of liquid waste, and we cannot assure you that the same or similar results could be obtained on a large-scale industrial basis. We cannot predict all of the difficulties that may arise when the technology is utilized on a large-scale industrial basis. In addition, our technology has never operated at a volume level required to be profitable. As our product is an alternative to acetylene, the unstable price of acetylene will impact our ability to become profitable and to sell cost competitive fuel. It is possible that the technology may require further research, development, design and testing prior to implementation of a larger-scale commercial application. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that this technology will perform successfully on a large-scale commercial basis, that it will be profitable to us or that our MagneGas2® will be cost competitive in the market.

 

Our future success is dependent, in part, on the performance and continued service of Ermanno Santilli and other key personnel. Without their continued service, we may be forced to interrupt our operations.

 

We are presently dependent to a great extent upon the experience, abilities and continued services of Ermanno Santilli, our President and CEO. Ermanno has several years of experience regarding the technical operation and deployment of our refineries and has built deep relationships with our partners. The loss of any of his services would delay our business operations substantially.

 

Our related party transactions may cause conflicts of interests that may adversely affect our business.

 

Our intellectual property was purchased through a related party transaction with Hyfuels, Inc, a company which our former Chairman of our Board of Directors (the “Board”), Dr. Ruggero Santilli, serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer, who through the transaction became a stockholder of our company. We currently lease our building through a related party transaction with a company wholly-owned by Dr. Santilli and his spouse and member of the Board, Carla Santilli. In addition, Dr. Santilli has personally contributed a small refinery for our use and we have received various small notes and loans from related parties, all of which have been paid in full. In addition, we own a 20% interest in MagneGas Europe, a company whose major stockholder is Ermanno Santilli, our Chief Executive Officer.

 

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We believe that these transactions and agreements that we have entered into with these affiliates are on terms that are at least as favorable as could reasonably have been obtained at such time from third parties. However, these relationships could create, or appear to create, potential conflicts of interest when our Board is faced with decisions that could have different implications for us and these affiliates. The appearance of conflicts, even if such conflicts do not materialize, might adversely affect the public’s perception of us, as well as our relationship with other companies and our ability to enter into new relationships in the future, which could have a material adverse effect on our ability to raise capital or to do business.

 

We have the potential risk of product liability, which may subject us to litigation and related costs.

 

Our Plasma Arc Flow® System may be utilized in a variety of industrial and other settings, and may be used to handle materials resulting from the user's generation of liquid waste and the creation of a compressed hydrogen based fuel for distribution to end customers. The equipment, cylinders and gas will therefore be subject to risks of breakdowns and malfunctions. There is also inherent risk in the compression, transportation and use of MagneGas2® fuel. It is possible that claims for personal injury and business losses arising out of these risks, breakdowns and malfunctions will occur. Our insurance may be insufficient to provide coverage against all claims, and claims may be made against us even if covered by our insurance policy for amounts substantially in excess of applicable policy limits. Such an event could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

In addition, due to the April 16, 2015 accident (as described above under the heading “Accident at Company Facility”), we may subject to a fine by OSHA as well as litigation costs. Such costs could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Since no cause of the accident has been determined, we may be subject to sales losses should the cause be determined to require a change in fuel production systems or processes.

 

Because we are smaller and have fewer financial and other resources than many alternative fuel companies, we may not be able to successfully compete in the very competitive alternative fuel industry.

 

Fuel is a commodity. There is significant competition among existing alternative fuel producers. Our business faces competition from a number of producers that can produce significantly greater volumes of fuel than we can or expect to produce, producers that can produce a wider range of fuel products than we can, and producers that have the financial and other resources that would enable them to expand their production rapidly if they chose to. These producers may be able to achieve substantial economies of scale and scope, thereby substantially reducing their fixed production costs and their marginal productions costs. If these producers are able to substantially reduce their marginal production costs, the market price of fuel may decline and we may be not be able to produce biogas at a cost that allows us to compete economically. Even if we are able to operate profitably, these other producers may be substantially more profitable than us, which may make it more difficult for us to raise any financing necessary for us to achieve our business plan and may have a materially adverse effect on the market price of our common stock.

 

Costs of compliance with burdensome or changing environmental and operational safety regulations could cause our focus to be diverted away from our business and our results of operations may suffer.

 

Liquid waste disposal and fuel production involves the discharge of potential contaminants into the water and air and is subject to various regulatory and safety requirements. As a result, we are subject to complicated environmental regulations of the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency and regulations and permitting requirements of the various states. These regulations are subject to change and such changes may require additional capital expenditures or increased operating costs. Consequently, considerable resources may be required to comply with future environmental regulations. In addition, our production plants could be subject to environmental nuisance or related claims by employees, property owners or residents near the plants arising from air or water discharges. Environmental and public nuisance claims, or tort claims based on emissions, or increased environmental compliance costs resulting therefrom could significantly increase our operating costs.

 

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Because MagneGas2® is new to the metalworking market, it may take time for the industry to adapt to it. In addition, the economy may adversely impact consumption of fuel in the metalworking market making it more difficult for us to sell our product.

 

MagneGas2® is a replacement for acetylene for the metalworking market. Because MagneGas2® is a new product in the industry, it may take time for end users to consider changing from acetylene to MagneGas2® and as such this may adversely impact our sales. In addition, consumption for fuel in the metalworking market is highly dependent on the economic conditions of the manufacturing industry and as such adverse conditions in the economy may also negatively impact our ability to sell our fuel to market.

 

The possibility of a global financial crisis may significantly impact our business and financial condition and our ability to attract customers to our relatively new technology for the foreseeable future.

 

The turmoil in the global financial system may adversely impact our ability to raise capital, invest in the development and refinement of our technology and to successfully market it to new customers. We may face increasing challenges if conditions in the financial markets do not improve over time. Our ability to access the capital markets may be restricted at a time when we would like, or need, to raise financing, which could have a material negative impact on our flexibility to react to changing economic and business conditions. The economic situation could have a material negative impact on our ability to attract new customers willing to try our alternative fuel products or purchase our technology.

 

Mergers or other strategic transactions involving our competitors could weaken our competitive position, which could harm our operating results.

 

There is significant competition among existing alternative fuel producers. Some of our competitors may enter into new alliances with each other or may establish or strengthen cooperative relationships with systems integrators, third-party consulting firms or other parties. Any such consolidation, acquisition, alliance or cooperative relationship could lead to pricing pressure and our loss of market share and could result in a competitor with greater financial, technical, marketing, service and other resources, all of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition.

 

Our failure to respond to rapid change in the market for alternative fuel products could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.

 

Our future success will depend significantly on our ability to keep pace with technological developments and evolving industry standards. Our delay or failure to develop or acquire technological improvements, adapt the products we develop to technological changes or provide technology that appeals to our customers may result in us not being able to successfully compete in the marketplace or the loss of customers which could ultimately cause us to cease operations.

 

Because our long-term plan depends, in part, on our ability to expand the sales of our solutions to customers located outside of the United States, our business will be susceptible to risks associated with international operations.

 

We have limited experience operating in foreign jurisdictions. We continue to explore opportunities for joint ventures internationally. Our inexperience in operating our business outside of North America increases the risk that our current and any future international expansion efforts will not be successful. Conducting international operations subjects us to new risks that, generally, we have not faced in the United States, including:

 

fluctuations in currency exchange rates;
unexpected changes in foreign regulatory requirements;
longer accounts receivable payment cycles and difficulties in collecting accounts receivable;
difficulties in managing and staffing international operations;
potentially adverse tax consequences, including the complexities of foreign value added tax systems and restrictions on the repatriation of earnings;
localization of our solutions, including translation into foreign languages and associated expenses;
the burdens of complying with a wide variety of foreign laws and different legal standards, including laws and regulations related to privacy;
increased financial accounting and reporting burdens and complexities;
political, social and economic instability abroad, terrorist attacks and security concerns in general; and
reduced or varied protection for intellectual property rights in some countries.

 

Risks Related to Our Intellectual Property

 

The success of our business depends, in part, upon proprietary technologies and information that may be difficult to protect and may be perceived to infringe on the intellectual property rights of third parties.

 

We believe that the identification, acquisition and development of proprietary technologies are key drivers of our business. Our success depends, in part, on our ability to obtain patents, maintain the secrecy of our proprietary technology and information, and operate without infringing on the proprietary rights of third parties. We cannot assure you that the patents of others will not have an adverse effect on our ability to conduct our business, that the patents that provide us with competitive advantages will not be challenged by third parties, that we will develop additional proprietary technology that is patentable or that any patents issued to us will provide us with competitive advantages. Further, we cannot assure you that others will not independently develop similar or superior technologies, duplicate elements of our biomass technology or design around it.

 

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To successfully commercialize our proprietary technologies, we may need to acquire licenses to use, or to contest the validity of, issued or pending patents. We cannot assure you that any license acquired under such patents would be made available to us on acceptable terms, if at all, or that we would prevail in any such contest. In addition, we could incur substantial costs in defending ourselves in suits brought against us for alleged infringement of another party's patents or in defending the validity or enforceability of our patents, or in bringing patent infringement suits against other parties based on our patents.

 

In addition to the protection afforded by patents, we also rely on trade secrets, proprietary know-how and technology that we seek to protect, in part, by confidentiality agreements with our prospective joint venture partners, employees and consultants. We cannot assure you that these agreements will not be breached, that we will have adequate remedies for any such breach, or that our trade secrets and proprietary know-how will not otherwise become known or be independently discovered by others.

 

We cannot assure you that we will obtain any patent protection that we seek, that any protection we do obtain will be found valid and enforceable if challenged or that it will confer any significant commercial advantage. U. S. patents and patent applications may be subject to interference proceedings, U. S. patents may be subject to re-examination proceedings in the U. S. Patent and Trademark Office and foreign patents may be subject to opposition or comparable proceedings in the corresponding foreign patent offices, which proceedings could result in either loss of the patent or denial of the patent application, or loss or reduction in the scope of one or more of the claims of, the patent or patent application. In addition, such interference, re-examination and opposition proceedings may be costly. Moreover, the U. S. patent laws may change, possibly making it easier to challenge patents. Some of our technology was, and continues to be, developed in conjunction with third parties, and thus there is a risk that such third parties may claim rights in our intellectual property. Thus, any patents that we own or license from others may provide limited or no protection against competitors. Our pending patent applications, those we may file in the future, or those we may license from third parties, may not result in patents being issued. If issued, they may not provide us with proprietary protection or competitive advantages against competitors with similar technology.

 

Many of our competitors have significant resources and incentives to apply for and obtain intellectual property rights that could limit or prevent our ability to commercialize our current or future products in the United States or abroad.

 

Many of our potential competitors who have significant resources and have made substantial investments in competing technologies may seek to apply for and obtain patents that will prevent, limit or interfere with our ability to make, use or sell our products either in the United States or in international markets. Our current or future U. S. or foreign patents may be challenged, circumvented by competitors or others or may be found to be invalid, unenforceable or insufficient. Since patent applications are confidential until patents are issued in the United States, or in most cases, until after 18 months from filing of the application, or corresponding applications are published in other countries, and since publication of discoveries in the scientific or patent literature often lags behind actual discoveries, we cannot be certain that we were the first to make the inventions covered by each of our pending patent applications, or that we were the first to file patent applications for such inventions.

 

If we are unable to protect the confidentiality of our proprietary information and know-how, the value of our technology and products could be adversely affected.

 

In addition to patented technology, we rely on our unpatented proprietary technology, trade secrets, processes and know-how. We generally seek to protect this information by confidentiality agreements with our employees, consultants, scientific advisors and third parties. These agreements may be breached, and we may not have adequate remedies for any such breach. In addition, our trade secrets may otherwise become known or be independently developed by competitors. To the extent that our employees, consultants or contractors use intellectual property owned by others in their work for us, disputes may arise as to the rights in related or resulting know-how and inventions.

 

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Risks Related to Our Securities

 

The market price for our common stock is particularly volatile given our status as a relatively unknown company with a small and thinly traded public float and lack of profits, which could lead to wide fluctuations in our share price. You may be unable to sell your common stock at or above your purchase price, which may result in substantial losses to you.

 

The market for our common stock is characterized by significant price volatility when compared to the shares of larger, more established companies that trade on a national securities exchange and have large public floats, and we expect that our share price will continue to be more volatile than the shares of such larger, more established companies for the indefinite future. The volatility in our share price is attributable to a number of factors. First, as noted above, shares of our common stock are, compared to the shares of such larger, more established companies, sporadically and thinly traded. The price for our shares could, for example, decline precipitously in the event that a large number of our shares of common stock are sold on the market without commensurate demand. Secondly, we are a speculative or “risky” investment due lack of profits to date and uncertainty of future market acceptance for our potential products. As a consequence of this enhanced risk, more risk-adverse investors may, under the fear of losing all or most of their investment in the event of negative news or lack of progress, be more inclined to sell their shares on the market more quickly and at greater discounts than would be the case with the stock of a larger, more established company that trades on a national securities exchange and has a large public float. Stock markets in general have experienced extreme volatility recently that has at times been unrelated to the operating performance of particular companies. Many of these factors are beyond our control and may decrease the market price of our common stock, regardless of our operating performance.

 

Future sales of our common stocks in the public market by management or our large stockholders could lower our stock price.

 

The members of our Board, our executive officers, and Dr. Santilli collectively beneficially own approximately 12.5% of our outstanding common stock (without the inclusion of outstanding options). If the members of our Board and officers sell, or indicate intent to sell, substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market, the trading price of our common stock may decline significantly.

 

Our operating results may fluctuate significantly, and these fluctuations may cause the price of our securities to fall.

 

Our quarterly operating results may fluctuate significantly in the future due to a variety of factors that could affect our revenues or our expenses in any particular quarter. You should not rely on quarter-to-quarter comparisons of our results of operations as an indication of future performance. Factors that may affect our quarterly results include:

 

·market acceptance of our products and those of our competitors;
·the sales and fulfillment cycle associated with our products, which is typically lengthy and subject to a number of significant risks over which we have little or no control, and the corresponding delay in our receipt of the associated revenue;
·our ability to complete the technical milestone tests associated with our commercial agreements;
·our ability to attract and retain key personnel;
·development of new designs and technologies; and
·our ability to manage our anticipated growth and expansion.

 

We have a significant number of warrants outstanding, and while these warrants are outstanding, it may be more difficult to raise additional equity capital. Additionally, certain of these warrants contain price-protection provisions that may result in the reduction of their exercise prices if certain transactions occur in the future.

 

As of March 18, 2016, we had outstanding warrants to purchase 7,702,819 shares of common stock. The holders of these warrants are given the opportunity to profit from a rise in the market price of our common stock. We may find it more difficult to raise additional equity capital while these warrants are outstanding. At any time during which these warrants are likely to be exercised, we may be unable to obtain additional equity capital on more favorable terms from other sources. Furthermore, the majority of these warrants contain price-protection provisions under which, if we were to issue securities in conjunction with a merger, tender offer, sale of assets or reclassification of our common stock at a price lower than the exercise price of such warrants, the exercise price of the warrants would be reduced, with certain exceptions, to the lower price. Additionally, the exercise of these warrants will cause the increase of our outstanding shares of our common stock, which could have the effect of substantially diluting the interests of our current stockholders.

 

We are an emerging growth company within the meaning of the Securities Act, and if we decide to take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements applicable to emerging growth companies, our common stock could be less attractive to investors.

 

We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act, or the JOBS Act. For as long as we continue to be an emerging growth company, we may take advantage of exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not emerging growth companies, including not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements and exemptions from the requirements of holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation and shareholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. We could be an emerging growth company through December 31, 2017, although we could lose that status sooner if our revenues exceed $1 billion, if we issue more than $1 billion in non-convertible debt in a three year period, or if the market value of our common stock held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter, in which case we would no longer be an emerging growth company as of the following December 31. We cannot predict if investors will find our common stock less attractive because we may rely on these exemptions. If some investors find our common stock less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock and our stock price may be more volatile.

 

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Under the JOBS Act, emerging growth companies may also delay adopting new or revised accounting standards until such time as those standards apply to private companies. We have irrevocably elected not to avail ourselves of this exemption from new or revised accounting standards and, therefore, will be subject to the same new or revised accounting standards as other public companies that are not emerging growth companies.

 

The price of shares of our common stock may not reflect our value and there can be no assurance that there will be an active market for our shares of common stock now or in the future.

 

The price of our common stock, when traded, may not reflect our value. There can be no assurance that there will be an active market for our shares of common stock either now or in the future. Market liquidity will depend on the perception of our operating business and any steps that our management might take to bring us to the awareness of investors. There can be no assurance given that there will be any awareness generated. Consequently, investors may not be able to liquidate their investment or liquidate it at a price that reflects the value of the business. As a result, holders of our securities may have difficulty finding purchasers for our shares should they attempt to sell shares held by them. Even if a more active market should develop, the price of our shares of common stock may be highly volatile. Our shares should be purchased only by investors having no need for liquidity in their investment and who can hold our shares for an indefinite period of time.

 

On December 11, 2014, the Company received notification from the Listing Qualifications Department of The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) indicating that the Company’s common stock was subject to potential delisting from the Nasdaq because for a period of thirty (30) consecutive business days, the bid price of the Company’s common stock had closed below the minimum $1. 00 per share requirement for continued inclusion under Nasdaq Marketplace Rule 5550(a)(2)(the “Bid Price Rule”). The notification had no immediate effect on the listing or trading of the common stock on the Nasdaq.

 

Nasdaq sent a notice to the Company on June 1, 2015 that the Company had regained compliance because the bid price of the Company’s common stock closed at $1.00 per share or more for a minimum of ten consecutive business days.

 

No assurances can be made that our common stock will remain listed on Nasdaq Capital Market. If we are not able to comply with the Nasdaq Capital requirements, our common stock will be delisted from Nasdaq and our common stock would likely be quoted on the OTC Bulletin Board or on the OTC Pink Sheets. As a consequence of any such delisting, a stockholder would likely find it more difficult to dispose of, or to obtain accurate quotations as to the prices of our common stock. Also, a delisting of our common stock would adversely affect our ability to obtain financing for the continuation of our operations and harm our business.

 

If and when a larger trading market for our common stock develops, the market price of our common stock is still likely to be highly volatile and subject to wide fluctuations, and you may be unable to resell your shares at or above the price at which you acquired them.

 

The market price of our common stock is likely to be highly volatile and could be subject to wide fluctuations in response to a number of factors that are beyond our control, including, but not limited to:

 

·Variations in our revenues and operating expenses;
·Actual or anticipated changes in the estimates of our operating results or changes in stock market analyst recommendations regarding our common stock, other comparable companies or our industry generally;
·Market conditions in our industry, the industries of our customers and the economy as a whole;
·Actual or expected changes in our growth rates or our competitors’ growth rates;
·Developments in the financial markets and worldwide or regional economies;
·Announcements of innovations or new products or services by us or our competitors;
·Announcements by the government relating to regulations that govern our industry;
·Sales of our common stock or other securities by us or in the open market; and
·Changes in the market valuations of other comparable companies.

 

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We currently have shares of preferred stock outstanding that limit the rights of holders of our common stock.

 

Our certificate of incorporation authorizes us to issue up to 10,000,000 shares of preferred stock with designations, rights, and preferences determined from time to time by our board of directors. Accordingly, our board of directors is empowered, without stockholder approval, to issue preferred stock with dividend, liquidation, conversion, voting or other rights superior to those of holders of our common stock. For example, an issuance of shares of preferred stock could:

 

·adversely affect the voting power of the holders of our common stock;
·make it more difficult for a third party to gain control of us;
·discourage bids for our common stock at a premium; and
·limit or eliminate any payments that the holders of our common stock could expect to receive upon our liquidation; or otherwise adversely affect the market price or our common stock. 

 

As of December 31, 2015, we had 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock outstanding, which entitles the Santilli Family (as defined below) to voting rights in the aggregate of 100,000,000,000 votes. Such preferred stock has liquidation and dividend rights over common stock, which is not in excess of its par value. Further, the preferred stock does not have any conversion rights or mandatory redemption features. The rights, preferences and privileges granted to or imposed upon these shares of preferred stock significantly limit or impair the voting, dividend and liquidation rights of holders of our common stock.

 

Certain members of our Board, their affiliates and our executive officers, as stockholders, control our company.

 

The members of our Board, our executive officers, and Dr. Santilli collectively beneficially own approximately 12.5% of our outstanding common stock (without the inclusion of outstanding options). As a result of this ownership, they have the ability to significantly influence all matters requiring approval by stockholders of our company, including the election of directors. In particular, Dr. Santilli, the former Chairman of our Board together with his spouse Carla Santilli (a member of our Board), beneficially own 6.25% of our outstanding common stock (without the inclusion of outstanding options). In addition to ownership of our common stock, Dr. Santilli and his spouse Carla Santilli, together with their children, Ermanno Santilli, our Chief Executive Officer, and Luisa Ingargiola, our Chief Financial Officer (the “Santilli Family”), beneficially maintain voting control over 100% of our outstanding 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock, which entitles the Santilli Family to voting rights in the aggregate of 100,000,000,000 votes. As a result, the Santilli Family has the ability to significantly influence all matters requiring approval by stockholders of our company. This concentration of ownership also may have the effect of delaying or preventing a change in control of our company that may be favored by other stockholders. This could prevent transactions in which stockholders might otherwise receive a premium for their shares over current market prices.

 

If securities or industry analysts do not publish research or reports about us, or publish negative reports about our business, our share price could decline.

 

Securities analysts from Northland Capital Markets currently cover our common stock but may not do so in the future. Our lack of analyst coverage might depress the price of our common stock and result in limited trading volume. If we do receive analyst coverage in the future, any negative reports published by such analysts could have similar effects.

 

Future issuance of our common stock could dilute the interests of existing stockholders.

 

We may issue additional shares of our common stock in the future. The issuance of a substantial amount of common stock could have the effect of substantially diluting the interests of our current stockholders. In addition, the sale of a substantial amount of common stock in the public market, either in the initial issuance or in a subsequent resale by the target company in an acquisition which received such common stock as consideration or by investors who acquired such common stock in a private placement could have an adverse effect on the market price of our common stock.

 

The application of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s “penny stock” rules to our common stock could limit trading activity in the market, and our stockholders may find it more difficult to sell their stock.

 

Our common stock trades at less than $5. 00 per share and is therefore subject to the SEC’s penny stock rules. Penny stocks generally are equity securities with a price of less than $5. 00. Penny stock rules require a broker-dealer, prior to a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from the rules, to deliver a standardized risk disclosure document that provides information about penny stocks and the risks in the penny stock market. The broker-dealer also must provide the customer with current bid and offer quotations for the penny stock, the compensation of the broker-dealer and its salesperson in the transaction, and monthly account statements showing the market value of each penny stock held in the customer’s account. The broker-dealer must also make a special written determination that the penny stock is a suitable investment for the purchaser and receive the purchaser’s written agreement to the transaction. These requirements may have the effect of reducing the level of trading activity, if any, in the secondary market for a security that becomes subject to the penny stock rules. The additional burdens imposed upon broker-dealers by such requirements may discourage broker-dealers from effecting transactions in our securities, which could severely limit their market price and liquidity. These requirements may restrict the ability of broker-dealers to sell our common stock and may affect your ability to resell our common stock.

  

FINRA sales practice requirements may also limit a stockholder’s ability to buy and sell our securities.

 

In addition to the “penny stock” rules described above, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) has adopted rules that require that in recommending an investment to a customer, a broker-dealer must have reasonable grounds for believing that the investment is suitable for that customer. Prior to recommending speculative low priced securities to their non-institutional customers, broker-dealers must make reasonable efforts to obtain information about the customer’s financial status, tax status, investment objectives and other information. Under interpretations of these rules, FINRA believes that there is a high probability that speculative low priced securities will not be suitable for at least some customers. The FINRA requirements may make it more difficult for broker-dealers to recommend that their customers buy our securities, which may limit a stockholder’s ability to buy and sell our securities and have an adverse effect on the market for our securities.

 

We do not intend to pay dividends for the foreseeable future, and you must rely on increases in the market price of our common stock for returns on equity investment.

 

For the foreseeable future, we intend to retain any earnings to finance the development and expansion of our business, and we do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our common stock. Accordingly, investors must be prepared to rely on sales of their common stock after price appreciation to earn an investment return, which may never occur. Investors seeking cash dividends should not purchase our common stock. Any determination to pay dividends in the future will be made at the discretion of our Board and will depend on our results of operations, financial condition, contractual restrictions, restrictions imposed by applicable law and other factors our Board deems relevant.

 

Our certificate of incorporation, bylaws and the Delaware General Corporation Law may delay or deter a change of control transaction.

 

Certain provisions of our certificate of incorporation and bylaws may have the effect of deterring takeovers, such as those provisions authorizing our Board to issue, from time to time, any series of preferred stock and fix the designation, powers, preferences and rights of the shares of such series of preferred stock; prohibiting stockholders from acting by written consent in lieu of a meeting; requiring advance notice of stockholder intention to put forth director nominees or bring up other business at a stockholders’ meeting; prohibiting stockholders from calling a special meeting of stockholders; requiring a 66 2/3% majority stockholder approval in order for stockholders to amend certain provisions of our certificate of incorporation or bylaws or adopt new bylaws; providing that, subject to the rights of preferred shares, the directors will be divided into three classes and the number of directors is to be fixed exclusively by our Board; and providing that none of our directors may be removed without cause. Section203 of the DGCL, from which we did not elect to opt out, provides that if a holder acquires 15% or more of our stock without prior approval of our Board, that holder will be subject to certain restrictions on its ability to acquire us within three years. These provisions may delay or deter a change of control of us, and could limit the price that investors might be willing to pay in the future for shares of our common stock.

 

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Item 1B.Unresolved Staff Comments.

 

This information is not required for smaller reporting companies.

 

Item 2.Properties.

 

We presently lease 5,000 square feet for our principal offices at 150 Rainville Rd, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 on a month-to-month basis and the telephone number is (727) 934-3448. The Company purchased a new facility in Clearwater, Florida in September 2014 (an 18,000 square foot facility) and the Company plans to relocate its headquarters to this new location in April of 2016.

 

Item 3.Legal Proceedings.

 

We are currently not involved in any litigation that we believe could have a materially adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. There is no action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation before or by any court, public board, government agency, self-regulatory organization or body pending or, to the knowledge of the executive officers of our company or any of our subsidiaries, threatened against or affecting our company, our common stock, any of our subsidiaries or of our company’s or our company’s subsidiaries’ officers or directors in their capacities as such, in which an adverse decision could have a material adverse effect.

 

As a result of the accident which occurred on April 16, 2015, however, potential plaintiffs may initiate litigation related to the accident until April 16, 2017. We are currently unaware of any forthcoming or threatened litigation in connection with the accident. 

 

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures.

 

Not Applicable.

 

PART II

 

Item 5.Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

Market Information

 

Our common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol “MNGA”.

 

Price Range of Common Stock

 

The following table sets forth the high and low sales price per share of common stock as reported by NASDAQ Capital Market for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014:

 

   High   Low 
Fiscal Year 2014          
First quarter ended March 31, 2014  $2.40   $0.44 
Second quarter ended June 30, 2014  $1.72   $1.17 
Third quarter ended September 30, 2014  $1.56   $1.04 
Fourth quarter ended December 31, 2014  $1.30   $0.66 
           
Fiscal Year 2015          
First quarter ended March 31, 2015  $1.05   $0.42 
Second quarter ended June 30, 2015  $1.58   $0.52 
Third quarter ended September 30, 2015  $1.29   $0.80 
Fourth quarter ended December 31, 2015  $2.50   $0.93 

 

 17 

 

 

Approximate Number of Equity Security Holders

 

As of December 31, 2015, there were approximately 228 stockholders of record. Because shares of our common stock are held by depositaries, brokers and other nominees, the number of beneficial holders of our shares is substantially larger than the number of stockholders of record.

 

Dividends

 

We have not declared or paid any cash dividends on our common stock, and we do not anticipate declaring or paying cash dividends for the foreseeable future. We are not subject to any legal restrictions respecting the payment of dividends, except that we may not pay dividends if the payment would render us insolvent. Any future determination as to the payment of cash dividends on our common stock will be at our board of directors’ discretion and will depend on our financial condition, operating results, capital requirements and other factors that our Board considers to be relevant.

 

Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans

 

The following table provides information as of December 31, 2015, regarding shares of common stock that may be issued under the Company’s 2014 Equity Incentive Award Plan (the “Equity Plan”). The Equity Plan was approved by the Company’s shareholders and is the Company’s sole equity compensation plan.

 

Plan category   (a)
Number of securities
to be issued
upon exercise
of outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
    (b)
Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
    (c)
Number of securities
remaining available
for future issuance
under equity
compensation plans
(excluding securities
reflected in column
(a))
 
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders (1)     235,000       1.49       11,603  
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders (2)     ˉ       ˉ        ˉ  
Total     235,000               11,603  

 

(1) Consists of the Equity Plan. In the year ended December 31, 2014, 235,000 shared underlying options were issued and 558,914 shares of common stock were issued pursuant to the Equity Plan. In the year ended December 31, 2015, 194,483 shares of common stock were issued pursuant to the Equity Plan.

 

(2) N/A.

 

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

 

From January 1, 2015 through and including December 31, 2015, there were no purchases of equity securities by the issuer and affiliated purchasers.

 

 18 

 

 

Item 6.Selected Financial Data

 

We are not required to provide the information required by this Item because we are a smaller reporting company.

 

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

The following discussion and analysis of the results of operations and financial condition for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 should be read in conjunction with our financial statements, and the notes to those financial statements that are included elsewhere in this Report.

 

Overview

 

Our operating plan and mission is to create a hydrogen based fuel through the gasification of liquid and liquid waste. A process has been developed which transforms various types of liquid waste through a proprietary plasma arc system. A byproduct of this process is to produce an alternative to natural gas currently sold in the metalworking market and under development for the co-combustion of hydrocarbon fuels to reduce emissions. The patented proprietary technology is owned by our company. Through ESSI, the Company sells MagneGas2® fuel, hard goods and other products to the Metal Working market. The Company is also selling equipment for the processing of liquid waste and developing the market for the use of MagneGas2® to co-combust with fossil fuels to reduce hydrocarbon emissions.

 

Business Continuation and Succession

 

We have developed and trained a team of engineers and consultants to become knowledgeable with the MagneGas2® product and the Plasma Arc Flow® technology.

 

Management Consideration of Alternative Business Strategies

 

In order to continue to protect and increase shareholder value management believes that it may, from time to time, consider alternative management strategies to create value for the company or additional revenues. Strategies to be reviewed may include acquisitions; roll-ups; strategic alliances; joint ventures on large projects; and/or mergers.

 

Management will only consider these options where it believes the result would be to increase shareholder value while continuing the viability of the company.

 

 19 

 

 

Results of Operations

 

Comparison of the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014

 

Revenues

 

For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 we generated revenues of $2,430,647 and $1,023,046, respectively. We generated revenues of $2,383,981 and $875,373 from our metal cutting fuel sales operations for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The increase was primarily due to having a full year with ESSI as our subsidiary. We have secured viable channels for the distribution of our metal cutting fuel. We have fulfilled initial orders and are receiving repeat orders from multiple customers and distributors. The Company is focusing its efforts on attracting multinational, marquee customers in the electric utility and waste to energy industry to have a platform for growth as additional fuel production systems come online at the Company’s new headquarters.

 

During the second half of 2010 we received a contract for our technology licensing. We have recognized revenues in the amount of $46,666 and $93,332 for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively from these licensing fees. These license fees are ratably earned over the terms of the licensing agreement.

 

Operating Expenses

 

Operating costs were incurred in the amount of $9,597,630 and $7,496,480 for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. General operating expenses were $6,987,303 and $3,975,473 for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 respectively. Expenses increased primarily as a result of the accident which required additional operational expenses, investor relations, public relations, legal and testing fees. Expenses related to ESSI operations and headcount from the acquisition were $478,614. Consulting fees, legal and accounting fees increased to $1,908,751 in 2015 versus $894,417 for the same period in 2014. Public company expenses including Nasdaq fees, EDGAR filing fees, stock transfer fees and investor relations costs increased to $1,990,554 in 2015 versus $1,169,001 in 2014. Research and development was $342,350 for the period ending December 31, 2015 remaining focused on the development of co-combustion, the oil processing machine and the new MagneGas2® fuel. Much of the development expenses are not classified as pure research and development as they related to the production of MagneGas2® fuel and are classed as production costs.

 

We use restricted common stock as a method of payment for certain services, primarily for consultants, advertising and investor relations to increase market awareness and as incentive to our key employees and consultants. We expect to continue these arrangements.

 

Net Income and Loss before Provision for Income Taxes

 

The Company had a net loss, before taxes, in the amount of $9,141,498 for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to a net loss before income taxes of $7,152,452 for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

  

As reflected in the audited financial statements, we have an accumulated deficit in the amount of $34.8 million. We had a net loss of $9,141,498 in 2015. However, we have had a significant equity investment, which has given the Company positive working capital which allowed the Company to manufacture additional recyclers and for future growth. We currently anticipate requiring additional capital in 2016 and intend to raise such additional capital through potential equity and/or debt financings throughout the year. Our investment in our product has positioned us well to meet our revitalized strategic plan. At December 31, 2015, the Company had $5.3 million in cash resources to meet current obligations.

 

 20 

 

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We have no off-balance sheet arrangements.

 

Contingent Liabilities

 

On April 16, 2015, there was an accident at the Company’s facilities which occurred during the gas filling process. As a result of the accident, one employee was killed and one was injured but has recovered and has returned to work. Although the Company has Workers Compensation Insurance and General Liability Insurance, the financial impact of the accident is unknown at this time. No customers have terminated their relationship with the Company as a result of the accident. On October 14, 2015 the Company received their final report from OSHA related to the accident at the Company headquarters on April 16, 2015.  The OSHA report included findings, many of which were already resolved and a proposed citation.  The Company was not cited for any willful misconduct and no final determination was made as to the cause of the accident.  The Company received citations related to various operational with a total fine of $52,000.

 

The Company is still investigating the cause of the accident and there have been no conclusive findings as of this time.  It is unknown whether the final cause of the accident will be determined and whether those findings will negatively impact Company operations or sales.  The Company continues to be fully operational and transparent with all regulatory agencies.

 

There is, however, a risk in the future that equipment sales or gas sales may be negatively impacted as a result of the accident. In addition, although no regulatory agency halted the Company’s gas operation, the Company halted operations for several weeks out of an abundance of caution while it reviewed procedures.

 

Sales were negatively impacted during the months of May and June 2015 as customers were being supplied out of inventory, or sales were held back until inventory was available.  In addition, expenses were higher during the period primarily due to an increase in expenses for public relations and investor relations following the accident.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

The Company’s significant accounting policies are presented in the Company’s notes to financial statements for the period ended December 31, 2015 which are contained in this filing, the Company’s 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The significant accounting policies that are most critical and aid in fully understanding and evaluating the reported financial results include the following:

 

The Company prepares its financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America. These principals require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Management believes that these estimates are reasonable and have been discussed with the Board; however, actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

The Company issues restricted stock to consultants for various services. Cost for these transactions are measured at the fair value of the consideration received or the fair value of the equity instruments issued, whichever is measurable more reliably measurable. The value of the common stock is measured at the earlier of (i) the date at which a firm commitment for performance by the counterparty to earn the equity instruments is reached or (ii) the date at which the counterparty's performance is complete.

 

Long-lived assets such as property, equipment and identifiable intangibles are reviewed for impairment whenever facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. When required impairment losses on assets to be held and used are recognized based on the fair value of the asset. The fair value is determined based on estimates of future cash flows, market value of similar assets, if available, or independent appraisals, if required. If the carrying amount of the long-lived asset is not recoverable from its undiscounted cash flows, an impairment loss is recognized for the difference between the carrying amount and fair value of the asset. When fair values are not available, the Company estimates fair value using the expected future cash flows discounted at a rate commensurate with the risk associated with the recovery of the assets. We did not recognize any impairment losses for any periods presented.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

We have reviewed accounting pronouncements and interpretations thereof that have effectiveness dates during the periods reported and in future periods. The Company has carefully considered the new pronouncements that alter previous generally accepted accounting principles and does not believe that any new or modified principles will have a material impact on the corporation’s reported financial position or operations in the near term. The applicability of any standard is subject to the formal review of our financial management and certain standards are under consideration. Those standards have been addressed in the notes to the audited financial statement and in this, our Annual Report, filed on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2015.

 

 21 

 

 

Item 7A.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

 

We do not hold any derivative instruments and do not engage in any hedging activities.

 

 22 

 

 

Item 8.Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

 

Audited Financial Statements

 

MagneGas Corporation

(Previously a Development Stage Enterprise)

 

As of December 31, 2015 and 2014

And for the Years Ended December 31, 2015 and 2014

 

Contents

 

Financial Statements:    
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm   F-2
Balance Sheets   F-3
Statements of Operations   F-4
Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity   F-5
Statements of Cash Flows   F-6
Notes to Financial Statements   F-7 through F-19

 

 F-1 

 

 

STEVENSON & COMPANY CPAS LLC

A PCAOB Registered Accounting Firm 

12421 N Florida Ave.

Suite.113

Tampa, FL 33612

 

{813)443-0619

 

 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

 

 

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

MagneGas Corporation

 

We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of MagneGas Corporation as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of MagneGas Corporation as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

 

/s/ Stevenson & Company CPAS LLC

 

Stevenson & Company CPAS LLC

 

Tampa, Florida

March 21, 2016

 

 

 F-2 

 

 

 

MagneGas Corporation

Audited Balance Sheets

 

   December 31, 
   2015   2014 
Assets          
Current Assets          
Cash  $5,319,869   $5,061,674 
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $109,568 and $104,028, respectively   373,006    268,308 
Inventory (including units for resale), at cost   2,362,014    2,164,838 
Prepaid and other current assets   

320,431

    300,065 
Total Current Assets   

8,375,320

    7,794,885 
           
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $1,467,123 and $961,520, respectively   6,004,990    6,353,655 
           
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $345,382 and $296,914, respectively   493,016    492,252 
Investment in joint ventures   754,601    718,246 
Security Deposits   24,113    21,647 
Goodwill   2,108,781    2,098,069 
Total Assets  $

17,760,821

   $17,478,754 
           
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity          
Current Liabilities          
Accounts payable  $425,294   $155,909 
Accrued expenses   504,855    52,120 
Deferred revenue and customer deposits   412,500    56,666 
Notes Payable (equipment) – Short Term   7,891    - 
Total Current Liabilities   1,350,540    264,695 
           
Long Term Liabilities          
Note Payable – Long Term   552,177    520,000 
Total Liabilities   1,902,717    784,695 
           
Stockholders' Equity          
Preferred stock: $0.001 par; 10,000,000 authorized; 1,000,000 issued and outstanding, respectively   1,000    1,002 
Common stock: $0.001 par; 90,000,000 authorized; 45,599,535 and 36,691,505 issued and outstanding, respectively   45,599    36,692 
Additional paid-in capital   

50,658,216

    

42,361,578

 
Issued and unearned stock compensation   -    - 
Accumulated deficit   (34,846,711)   (25,705,213)
Total Stockholders' Equity   

15,858,104

    16,694,059 
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity  $

17,760,821

   $17,478,754 

 

The audit report and accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

 F-3 

 

 

MagneGas Corporation

Audited Statements of Operations

 

    Year Ended December 31,  
    2015     2014  
             
Revenue   $ 2,430,647     $ 1,023,046  
Direct Costs     1,474,361       673,867  
      956,286       349,179  
                 
Operating Expenses:                
Selling, General, and Administration     6,987,338       3,975,473  
                 
Stock Compensation     508,570       1,511,989  
Stocks issued to pay for services     1,201,241       1,245,320  
Research and Development     342,350       387,058  
Depreciation and Amortization     558,131       376,640  
Total Operating Expenses     9,597,630       7,496,480  
                 
Operating Income (Expense)     (8,641,344 )     (7,147,301 )
                 
Net Interest     (28,777 )     (7,073 )
Loss on Sale of Unused Property     (483,630 )     -  
Other Income     12,253       1,922  
                 
Total Other Income (Expense)     (500,154 )     (5,151 )
                 
Net Income (Loss) before tax provision     (9,141,498 )     (7,152,452 )
Provision for Income Taxes      -       -  
Net Income (Loss)   $ (9,141,498 )   $ (7,152,452 )
Basic and Diluted   $ (0.23 )   $ (0.23 )
Weighted average common shares:                
Basic and Diluted     39,947,837       31,762,338  

  

The audit report and accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

 F-4 

 

 

MagneGas Corporation

Statement of Changes in Stockholders' Equity

(audited)

 

   Preferred   Common   Additional
Paid In
       Accumulated   Total 
   Shares   Amount   Shares   Amount   Capital       Deficit   Equity 
Balance at December 31, 2013   1,000,000   $1,000    23,259,109   $23,259   $26,163,522   $0   $(18,552,761)  $7,635,020 
                                         
Private Placement   6,242    6    7,500,755    7,501    13,992,493              14,000,000 
Offering Cost                       (1,483,818)             (1,483,818)
Common shares issued for services:             959,499    960    1,516,360              1,517,320 
Options – Stock Comp                       1,511,989              1,511,989 

Warrants Exercised

             

600,000

    

600

    

665,400

              

666,000

 
Preferred Shares Converted to Common Stock   (4,242)   (4)   4,372,142    4,372    (4,368)             - 
Net loss (audited)                                 (7,152,452)   (7,152,452)
Balance at December 31, 2014   1,002,000   $1,002    36,691,505   $36,692   $42,361,5578   $0   $(25,705,213)  $16,694,059 
                                         
Offerings costs                       (76,475)             (76,475)
Issued for services             1,369,483    

1,368

    1,199,873              1,201,241 
Options - Stock Comp                       508,570              508,570 
Options /warrants exercised             5,538,556    5,539    

6,666,668

              

6,672,207

 
Preferred shares converted to Common Stock   (2,000)   (2)   2,000,000    2,000    (1,998)             - 
Net loss (-audited)                                 (9,141,498)   (9,141,498)
Balance at December 31, 2015   1,000,000   $1,000    45,599,544   $45,599   $

50,658,216

   $0   $(34,846,711)  $

15,858,104

 

 

The audit report and accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

 F-5 

 

 

MagneGas Corporation

Audited Statement of Cash Flows

 

    December 31,  
    2015     2014  
Cash Flows from Operations                
Net income (loss)   $ (9,141,498 )   $ (7,152,452 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to cash used in operating activities:                
Depreciation and amortization     558,131       376,640  
Stock compensation     508,570       1,511,988  
Stocks Issued for Services     1,201,241       1,517,320  
Provision for bad debt     5,540       (104 )
Loss on disposal of Fixed Assets     483,630       939  
Revaluation of Inventory             (180,000 )
Changes in operating assets:                
Accounts receivable     (131,762 )     (8,750 )
Inventory     (86,342 )     62,228  
Prepaid and other current assets     (20,366 )     (253,592 )
Security deposits     0       (13,034 )
Accounts payable     265,676       (78,122 )
Accrued expenses     468,499       (299,320 )
Deferred revenue and customer deposits     355,834       (122,673 )
Total adjustments to net income     3,608,651       2,513,520  
Net cash (used in) operating activities     (5,532,847 )     (4,638,932 )
                 
Cash Flows from Investing Activities                
Acquisition of property, plant & equipment     (1,157,113 )     (465,584 )
Security Deposits     (2,466 )        
Acquisition of Subsidiary             (3,000,000 )
Investment in Joint Venture     (36,355 )     (227,836 )
Acquisition of Intangibles     (49,233 )     (57,896 )
Proceeds from sale of Assets     400,410          
Net cash flows (used in) investing activities     (844,757 )     (3,751,316 )
                 
Cash Flows from Financing Activities                
Proceeds from issuance of common stock             13,182,153  
Notes Payable     40,067          
Offering Cost     (76,475 )        
Common Stock/warrants Exercised     6,672,207          
Net cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities     6,635,799       13,182,153  
                 
Net increase (decrease) in cash     258,195       4,791,905  
Cash balance, beginning     5,061,674       269,769  
Cash balance, ending   $ 5,319,869     $ 5,061,674  
                 
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information and non cash investing and financing activities:                
Interest paid   $ 37,083     $ 8,554  
Taxes paid   $ -     $ -  
                 
Non-cash transactions:                
Capitalized construction cost for units placed in service   $ 0     $ 264,995  
Stock issued as investment in Joint Venture     -       200,000  

 

The audit report and accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

 F-6 

 

 

 

MagneGas Corporation

Notes to the Audited Financial Statements

For the Years Ended December 31, 2015 and 2014

  

1.Background Information

 

MagneGas Corporation (the “Company”) was organized in the state of Delaware on December 9, 2005. The Company was originally organized under the name 4307, Inc., for the purpose of locating and negotiating with a business entity for a combination. On April 2, 2007 all the issued and outstanding shares of 4307, Inc. were purchased and the Company name was changed to MagneGas Corporation.

 

MagneGas Corporation is an alternative energy company that creates and produces hydrogen based alternative fuel through the gasification of carbon-rich liquids including certain liquids and liquid wastes. We have developed a process which transforms various types of liquid waste through a proprietary plasma arc machine. A byproduct of this process is to produce an alternative to natural gas currently sold in the metalworking market. We produce gas bottled in cylinders for the purpose of distribution to the metalworking market as an alternative to acetylene. We also are developing advanced uses of our fuel to co-combust with other fuels to reduce emissions. Additionally, we market, for sale or licensure, our proprietary plasma arc technology. Through the course of our business development, we have established retail and wholesale platforms to sell our fuel for use in the metalworking and manufacturing industries. In 2010, we recognized our initial sale of a Plasma Arc Flow® unit and are continuing efforts to sell or lease additional equipment to end users.

 

2.Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

The significant accounting policies followed are:

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The Company prepares its financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America. These principals require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Management believes that these estimates are reasonable and have been discussed with the Board of Directors; however, actual results could differ from those estimates. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. All material intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The Company prepares its financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America. These principals require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Management believes that these estimates are reasonable and have been discussed with the Board of Directors; however, actual results could differ from those estimates. The financial statements presented include estimates for patent life, recoverability of deferred tax assets and collections on our receivables. Our estimates include consideration of the useful lives of our intellectual property, allocations to research and development costs and recognition of deferred tax assets.

 

 F-7 

 

 

Variable Interest Entities

 

The Company considers the consolidation of entities to which the usual condition (ownership of a majority voting interest) of consolidation does not apply, focusing on controlling financial interests that may be achieved through arrangements that do not involve voting interest. If an enterprise holds a majority of the variable interests of an entity, it would be considered the primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary is generally required to consolidate assets, liabilities and non-controlling interests at fair value (or at historical cost if the entity is a related party) and subsequently account for the variable interest as if it were consolidated based on a majority voting interest. The Company has investments in joint ventures that are in development of the MagneGas2® technology, however the Company is not identified as a primary beneficiary; therefore no consolidation is required and the investments are listed at their cost.

 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) introduced a framework for measuring fair value and expanded required disclosure about fair value measurements of assets and liabilities. The Company adopted the standard for those financial assets and liabilities as of the beginning of the 2008 fiscal year and the impact of adoption was not significant. FASB Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 820 “ Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures ” (ASC 820) 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. ASC 820 also establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between (1) market participant assumptions developed based on market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) and (2) an entity’s own assumptions about market participant assumptions developed based on the best information available in the circumstances (unobservable inputs). The fair value hierarchy consists of three broad levels, which gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:

 

Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities.
Level 2 - Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, including quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (e. g., interest rates); and inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means.
Level 3 - Inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable.

 

Fair value estimates discussed herein are based upon certain market assumptions and pertinent information available to management as of December 31, 2014. The respective carrying value of certain on-balance-sheet financial instruments approximated their fair values due to the short-term nature of these instruments. These financial instruments include accounts receivable, other current assets, accounts payable, accrued compensation and accrued expenses. The fair value of the Company’s notes payable is estimated based on current rates that would be available for debt of similar terms which is not significantly different from its stated value.

 

The Company applied ASC 820 for all non-financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis. The adoption of ASC 820 for non-financial assets and liabilities did not have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

The majority of cash is maintained with a major financial institution in the United States. Deposits with this bank may exceed the amount of insurance provided on such deposits. At December 31, 2015, nothing exceeded the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) limits. Generally, these deposits may be redeemed on demand and, therefore, bear minimal risk. The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

 

Accounts Receivable, Credit

 

Accounts receivable consist of amounts due for the delivery of MagneGas2® sales to customers. An allowance for doubtful accounts is considered to be established for any amounts that may not be recoverable, which is based on an analysis of the Company’s customer credit worthiness, and current economic trends. Based on management’s review of accounts receivable, allowances for doubtful accounts were established as deemed necessary. Receivables are determined to be past due, based on payment terms of original invoices. Reserves for uncollectible accounts were $109,568 for 2015 as compared to $104,028 in 2014. The Company does not typically charge interest on past due receivables.

 

 F-8 

 

 

Revenue Recognition

 

The Company generates revenue through three processes: (1) sale of MagneGas2® fuel for metal cutting (2) sale of its Plasma Arc Flow® units, and (3) and (3) sale of industrial gases and related equipment through its subsidiary, ESSI. Additionally, we also recognize revenue from territorial license arrangements.

 

Revenue for metalworking fuel is recognized when shipments are made to customers. The Company recognizes a sale when the product has been shipped and risk of loss has passed to the customer.
Revenue generated from sales of its production unit is recognized on a percentage of completion, based on the progress during manufacturing of the unit. Our machine is a significant investment and generally requires a 6 to 9 month production cycle. During the course of building a unit the actual costs are tracked to our cost estimates and revenue is proportionately recognized during the process. Significant deposits are required before production. These deposits are classified as customer deposits.
Licenses are issued, per contractual agreement, for distribution rights within certain geographic territories. We recognize revenue ratably, based on the amounts paid or values received, over the term of the licensing agreement.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of standard cost or market, which approximates actual cost. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out method. Inventory is comprised of filled cylinders of MagneGas2® and accessories (regulators and tips) available for sale and accumulated costs incurred in the manufacturing process of units held for future sales.

 

The Company is manufacturing additional units for sale. Each unit is assigned a project number and the costs, including labor, are accumulated in the carrying value as inventory. Upon delivery, the accumulated cost for the unit will be charged to cost of sales. Units are reclassified to capitalized assets when shipped to location for the production of metal cutting gas for the purpose of resale.

 

Long-Lived Assets

 

Property and equipment is stated at cost. Depreciation is computed by the straight-line method over estimated useful lives (3-7 years). Intellectual property assets are stated at their fair value acquisition cost. Amortization of intellectual property assets is calculated by the straight line method over their estimated useful lives (15 years). Historical costs are reviewed and evaluated for their net realizable value of the assets. The carrying amount of all long-lived assets is evaluated periodically to determine if adjustment to the depreciation and amortization period or the unamortized balance is warranted. Based upon its most recent analysis, the Company believes that no impairment of property and equipment existed at December 31, 2015.

 

Long-lived assets such as property, equipment and identifiable intangibles are reviewed for impairment whenever facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. When required impairment losses on assets to be held and used are recognized based on the fair value of the asset. The fair value is determined based on estimates of future cash flows, market value of similar assets, if available, or independent appraisals, if required. If the carrying amount of the long-lived asset is not recoverable from its undiscounted cash flows, an impairment loss is recognized for the difference between the carrying amount and fair value of the asset. When fair values are not available, the Company estimates fair value using the expected future cash flows discounted at a rate commensurate with the risk associated with the recovery of the assets. We did not recognize any impairment losses for any periods presented.

 

 F-9 

 

 

Stock Based Compensation

 

The Company issues restricted stock to consultants for various services. Cost for these transactions are measured at the fair value of the consideration received or the fair value of the equity instruments issued, whichever is more reliably measurable. The value of the common stock is measured at the earlier of (i) the date at which a firm commitment for performance by the counterparty to earn the equity instruments is reached or (ii) the date at which the counterparty's performance is complete. The Company recognized consulting expenses and a corresponding increase to additional paid-in-capital related to stock issued for services. Stock compensation for the periods presented were issued to consultants for past services provided, accordingly, all shares issued are fully vested, and there is no unrecognized compensation associated with these transactions.

 

Shipping Costs

 

The Company includes shipping costs and freight-in costs in cost of goods sold. Total freight-in included in cost of goods sold expense was $172,707 and $223,938 for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

Advertising Costs

 

The costs of advertising are expensed as incurred. Advertising expenses are included in the Company’s operating expenses. Advertising expense was $137,632 and $59,946 for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

Research and Development

 

The Company expenses research and development costs when incurred. Research and development costs include engineering and laboratory testing of product and outputs.

 

Income Taxes

 

The Company accounts for income taxes under the liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded based on the differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purpose, referred to as temporary differences. Deferred tax assets and liabilities at the end of each period are determined using the currently enacted tax rates applied to taxable income in the periods in which the deferred tax assets and liabilities are expected to be settled or realized.

 

Earnings (Loss) Per Share

 

Basic earnings (loss) per share calculations are determined by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year. Diluted earnings (loss) per share calculations are determined by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of shares. The Company has issued options to several investors, upon their purchase of shares. Options, whose strike price is less than the current market value, are considered common stock equivalents and are included in dilutive earnings per share.

 

   December 31, 
   2015   2014 
Net Income (Loss)  $(9,141,498)  $(7,152,452)
           
Weighted Average Shares          
Common Stock   (.23)   (.23)
Common stock equivalents (Options)   (.23)*   (.23)

 

* Net loss for the period, options and other dilutive common stock equivalents are anti-dilutive.

 

 F-10 

 

  

3.Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Company reviews new accounting standards as issued. No new standards had any material effect on these financial statements. The accounting pronouncements issued subsequent to the date of these financial statements that were considered significant by management were evaluated for the potential effect on these consolidated financial statements. Management does not believe any of the subsequent pronouncements will have a material effect on these consolidated financial statements as presented and does not anticipate the need for any future restatement of these consolidated financial statements because of the retro-active application of any accounting pronouncements issued subsequent to December 31, 2011 through the date these financial statements were issued.

 

4.Inventory

 

Inventory primarily consists of:

 

   December 31, 
   2015   2014 
Metal cutting fuel  $891,383   $984,287 
Units for resale, Construction in process   1,470,631    1,180,551 
   $2,362,014   $2,164,838 

 

5.Long Lived Assets

 

Property and equipment consists of:

 

   December 31, 
   2015   2014 
Machinery and equipment  $347,377   $273,450 
Furniture and office equipment   133,496    63,461 
Transportation   262,995    275,210 
Production units & cylinders   4,744,649    4,292,959 
Land and buildings   1,983596    2,420,124 
    7,472,113    7,315,175 
Less accumulated depreciation   1,467,123    961,520 
   $6,004,990   $6,353,655 

 

Depreciation of fixed assets was $509,663 and $328,172 for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

  

Intellectual property:

 

The Company owns intellectual property, which it is amortizing on a straight-line basis over the assets useful life. The Company assesses fair market value for any impairment to the carrying values. As of December 31, 2015 management concluded that there was no impairment to the intangible assets.

 

   December 31, 
   2015   2014 
Intellectual property  $838,398   $789,166 
Less accumulated amortization   345,382    296,914 
   $493,016   $492,252 
           
Future amortization through December 31,:          
2016  $48,468      
2017   48,468      
2018   48,468      
2019   48,468      
2020   48,468      
2021 and thereafter   250,676      
   $493,016      

 

Amortization of the intangible assets was $48,468 and $48,468 for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

 F-11 

 

  

Management periodically reviews the valuation of this asset for potential impairments. Consideration of various risks to the valuation and potential impairment includes, but is not limited to:(a) the technology’s acceptance in the marketplace and our ability to attain projected forecasts of revenue (discounted cash flow of projections); (b) competition of alternative solutions; and (c) federal and state laws which may prohibit the use of our production machinery as currently designed. Management has not impaired this asset, to date, and does not anticipate any negative impact from known current business developments. Management continuously measures the marketplace, potential revenue developments and competitive developments in the scientific industry.

 

6.Investment in Joint Ventures

 

On September 13, 2014 the Company and FuturEnergy PTY, LTD of Australia signed a term sheet which forms a Joint Venture (“JV LLC Australia”) for the purposes of pursuing the co-combustion of MagneGas2® fuel with hydrocarbon fuels to reduce emissions. Under the terms of the agreement, JV LLC Australia controls the rights to all hydrocarbon fuel emission reductions including diesel, gasoline and coal. Each party owns 50% of JV LLC Australia. This investment is accounted for using the Cost Method.

 

On March 20, 2015, the Company and FuturEnergy PTY, LTD finalized a term sheet with a confidential party from Michigan for a tri-party joint venture implemented through a Delaware limited liability company (the “JV LLC”). Each party owns one-third of the JV LLC which is engaged in the worldwide testing, development, and pursuit of the co-combustion of MagneGas2® with coal and coal by-products in the electric power plant industry. No capital investment has been made at this stage, only to share in the expense and benefits from the ongoing research and development. Therefore there is no valuation at this stage of the Joint Venture.

 

On June 25, 2010, the Company entered into agreement with a Belgium company, whereby 250,000 shares of MagneGas Corporation’s common stock and territorial license rights were exchanged for a 20% interest in MagneGas Europe. The Company valued the investment in the Joint Venture at the fair market value of the shares issued ($23,750). The Company does not have effective or beneficial control over the European entity and is to account for the investment under the Cost Method. Current year activity for the joint venture was immaterial.

  

On June 28, 2010, the Company entered into agreement with DDI Industries, a China company, in formation of MagneGas China. The Company is to provide mechanical drawings (for complete construction), computer programs, license of patents (Greater China Region), trademarks, etc. of the Plasma Arc Flow® Recyclers to the new entity in exchange for a $2 million investment in MagneGas Corporation (received as of September 30, 2011; subscription at a share price of $0.135 or 14,814,814 common shares) and 20% share in MagneGas China. The Company’s investment has been valued at $466,660, a mutually agreed amount for the technology license. The MagneGas China entity has been funded in cash for an amount which reflects the intellectual property’s value. The Company does not have effective or beneficial control over the China entity and is to account for the investment under the Cost Method. Current year activity for the joint venture was immaterial.

 

On May 28, 2015, the Company announced that it formed a subsidiary Joint Venture “Kickin Gas Partners D/B/A ESSI North” to distribute MagneGas2® fuel, welding gas and supplies into North Florida. Under the terms of the agreement, the Company will own 50% of the new Joint Venture which will establish a new location in North Florida for distribution and retail sales. The new location has been established and is actively selling fuel and hard goods.

 

Our investments in joint ventures are considered as Level 3, as defined in FASB Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 820 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” (ASC 820), and management considers alternative methods for valuing these investments to determine if there would be impairment to the current carrying value, currently our cost basis. As of December 31, 2015, management does not believe any impairment exists with regard to the investments in joint ventures.

  

7.Acquisition of Subsidiary

 

On October 10, 2014, the Company”), signed a Stock Purchase Agreement with the Robert A. Ficocelli Revocable Trust, Robert A Ficocelli and Stephen R. Homer (each, a Seller Party and together, the “Seller Parties”), the holders of all of the issued and outstanding capital stock (the “ESSI Shares”) of Equipment Sales and Service, Inc., a Florida corporation (“ESSI”), pursuant to which the Company agreed to purchase, and the Seller Parties agreed to sell, all the ESSI Shares for a total purchase price of Three Million Dollars ($3,000,000).

 

ESSI operates a business of sales and distribution of industrial gases and related equipment from its headquarters in Pinellas Park, Florida.

 

The closing of the Company’s purchase of the ESSI Shares occurred on October 27, 2014. Upon the closing of this transaction, the Company entered into a lease agreement for the premises at Pinellas Park, Florida that had served as ESSI’s corporate headquarters.

 

The Company accounted for the assets, liabilities and ownership interests in accordance with the provisions of ASC 805, Business Combinations for acquisitions occurring in years beginning after December 15, 2008 (formerly SFAS No. 141R, Business Combinations). As such, the recorded assets and liabilities acquired were recorded at fair value and any difference in the net asset values and the consideration given will be recorded as a gain on acquisition or as goodwill.

 

The pro forma results disclosed in the tables below are based on annual statements of the Company and ESSI. Various assumptions were made and are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that would have occurred had the Company completed this acquisition on January 1, 2013.

 

 F-12 

 

  

The pro forma income statements for the combined Companies as if they were together since January 1, 2014 are as follows:

  

   2015   2014 
Revenues  $2,430,647   $2,652,353 
           
Net income  $(9,141,498)  $(6,978,378)
           
EPS   (0.23)   (0.19)

 

Goodwill Allocation Table        
Purchase Price     3,000,000  
Cash     53,216  
Accounts Receivable     133,671  
Inventory     336,999  
Net Fixed Assets     391,031  
Security Deposits     45  
Accounts Payable     13,031  
Net Assets     901,931  
Goodwill – December 31, 2014     2,098,069  
Adjustment to Fixed Assests in 2015     10,712  
Goodwill – December 31, 2015     2,108,781  

  

8.Deferred Revenue and Customer Deposits

 

The Company has received deposits on production units and fees for exclusive territorial license. The Company has deferred the associated revenues until such time that production order is placed and produced (recognition under percentage of completion method) or through the passage of time (recognition over the life of the license term).

 

   December 31,   December 31, 
   2015   2014 
         
China territory license, exclusive 5 year license, expiring June 28, 2015   466,660    466,660 
Installment Payments from Kazakhstan for Equipment Purchase   499,000    499,000 
           
South African deposit for future sale   20,000    10,000 
Deposit from Green Arc Supply for future sale   392,500      
    1,378,160    975,660 
Portion recognized   965,660    918,994 
Deferred revenue and customer deposits  $412,500   $56,666 

 

The amount recognized as revenue under licensing arrangements was, $46,666 and $93,332 for years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

 F-13 

 

  

9.Income Tax

 

Income tax expense (benefit) consist of the following for the years ended December 31:

 

   2015   2014 
Current:        
Deferred       (751,600)   (1,100,200)
Federal   (2,429,000)   (1,437,800)
State      (259,300)   (153,500)
Total   (3,439,900)   (2,691,500)
           
Less reserve for allowance   3,439,900    2,691,500 
Total income tax expense (benefit)   -    - 

 

The Company has not recognized a provision for income tax benefit during the periods presented, due to the net operating losses incurred. The Company may recognize benefits in future periods when management believes that any benefit will be recognized.

 

Deferred Income Taxes

 

Deferred income taxes are the result of timing differences between book and tax basis of certain assets and liabilities, timing of income and expense recognition of certain items and net operating loss carry-forwards.  

 

The Company assesses temporary differences resulting from different treatments of items for tax and accounting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are recorded in our balance sheets. The Company evaluates the reliability of its deferred tax assets and assesses the need for a valuation allowance on an ongoing basis. In evaluating its deferred tax assets, the Company considers whether it is more likely than not that the deferred income tax assets will be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets depends upon generating sufficient future taxable income prior to the expiration of the tax attributes. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance the Company must project future levels of taxable income. This assessment requires significant judgment. The Company examined the evidence related to a recent history of tax losses, the economic conditions in which it operates recent organizational changes, its forecasts and projections. The Company will continue to evaluate its deferred tax assets to determine whether any changes in circumstances could affect the realization of their future benefit.

 

The Company had not previously recognized an income tax benefit for its operating losses generated since inception through December 31, 2015 based on uncertainties concerning its ability to generate taxable income in future periods of which, at the time, the realization could not be considered more likely than not. Based on events subsequent to the balance sheet date, management has re-assessed the valuation allowance and the recognition of its deferred tax losses, however, based on the Company’s history of losses and other negative evidence resulting in the allowance, no income tax benefit will be recognized for prior periods.

 

The net deferred income tax assets and (liability) consist of the following as of December 31:

 

  2015   2014 
Deferred:        
Net deferred tax asset and liabilities   13,112,800    9,672,900 
Less reserve for allowance   13,112,800    9,672,900 
Total Deferred tax assest and liabilities   -    - 

 

Under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, these losses can be carried forward twenty years. As of December 31, 2015 the Company has net operating loss carry forwards remaining from the following years:

 

   Net     
   Operating   Year 
Year Generated  Loss   Expires 
2007-2015 approx.  $34,500,000    By 2033 

  

The adoption of provisions, required by Accounting Standard Codification (“ASC”) No. 740, did not result in any adjustments.

 

The Company is currently open to audit under the statute of limitations by the Internal Revenue Service for the years ending December 31, 2008 through 2014. The Company state income tax returns are open to audit under the statute of limitations for the years ending December 31, 2006 through 2014. The Company’s 2012 tax return was audited in 2014 by the IRS and while certain deductions were disallowed in 2012 for tax purposes they were only timing differences so not penalties or interest were imposed due to that audit

 

The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to income taxes in income tax expense. The Company had incurred no penalties and interest for the years ended December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014.

 

 F-14 

 

  

10.Equity

 

The Company has three classifications of stock:

 

Our certificate of incorporation provides that we are authorized to issue up to 10,000,000 shares of preferred stock with a par value of $0.001 per share. Our board of directors has the authority, without further action by the stockholders, to issue from time to time the preferred stock in one or more series for such consideration and with such relative rights, privileges, preferences and restrictions that the board may determine. The preferences, powers, rights and restrictions of different series of preferred stock may differ with respect to dividend rates, amounts payable on liquidation, voting rights, conversion rights, redemption provisions, sinking fund provisions and purchase funds and other matters. The issuance of preferred stock could adversely affect the voting power or other rights of the holders of common stock.

  

Of the 10,000,000 shares authorized of Preferred stock at a par value of $0.001, 1,000,000 shares have been designated and issued as Series A Preferred Stock, 2,141.1328 shares have been designated and issued as Series B Convertible Preferred Stock, 2,100.5 shares have been designated and issued as Series C Convertible Preferred Stock, 1,060 shares have been designated and issued as Series D-1 Convertible Preferred Stock, and 940 shares have been designated and issued as Series D-2 Convertible Preferred Stock. As of December 31, 2015, only the 1,000,000 shares of Series A Preferred Stock are outstanding. All of the Series B, C, D-1, and D-2 shares previously issued have been converted into shares of Common Stock. 

 

Series A Preferred Stock has liquidation and dividend rights over Common Stock, which is not in excess of its par value. The preferred stock has no conversion rights or mandatory redemption features. There have been 1,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock issued to an entity controlled by Dr. Ruggero Santilli, Ermanno Santilli, President and CEO, Luisa Ingargiola, CFO and Carla Santilli, Director. Ermanno Santilli and Luisa Ingargiola have no equity interest, only voting control. Each share of Preferred Stock is entitled to 100,000 votes.

 

The holders of Common Stock and the equivalent Series A Preferred Stock, voting together, shall appoint the members of the Board of the Directors. Each share of Common Stock is entitled to one vote.

 

Common Stock includes 90,000,000 shares authorized at a par value of $0.001.

 

Reverse Stock Split

 

On June 26, 2012 we effected a ten-for-one reverse split of common shares. All share amounts have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the post-split shares.

 

 F-15 

 

  

Common Stock Issuances   

  

During 2015, the company issued 1,201,241 shares of Common Stock as payments for services.

 

 F-16 

 

  

Options and Warrants

 

As of December 31, 2015 we had outstanding warrants to purchase 7,702,819 shares of common stock with the following exercise prices and expiration dates:

 

# of Shares   Price   Expiration
 2,150,000   $1.31   Oct-19
 608,142   $1.35   Jun-18
 1,896,552   $2.15   Mar-19
 1,980,438   $3.00   Oct-16
 1,067,687   $4.00   Mar-17
 7,702,819         

 

The exercise prices of the warrants are subject to adjustment upon certain events, such as stock splits, combinations, dividends, distributions, reclassifications, or other corporate changes.

 

During the twelve month period ended December 31, 2015, there were 5,486,481 shares of common stock issued in connection with exercises of warrants for gross proceeds to the Company of $6,672,207: 2,326,416 shares (warrants with $1.11 exercise price originally issued during the January 2014 financing), 3,100,000 shares (warrants with $1.31 exercise price originally issued during the October 2014 financing) 21,389 shares (warrants with $1.35 exercise price originally issued during the June 2013 financing), and 38,676 shares (141,465 warrants with $1.35 exercise price originally issued during the June 2013 financing that were exercised on a cashless basis).

 

During the twelve month period ended December 31, 2015, a consultant exercised, via a cashless exercise, the option to purchase 50,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $1.17. The cashless exercise resulted in the consultant receiving 47,500 shares.

 

During the twelve month period ended December 31, 2015, a non-executive employee exercised, via a cashless exercise, the option to purchase 10,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.75. The cashless exercise resulted in the non-executive employee receiving 4,565 shares.

 

In February 2015, the Board granted to three executive employees (including two members of the Board) the option to purchase, in the aggregate, 350,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.72 (the closing price on February 13, 2015). The vesting schedule of the options was to be determined by the Board based on the Company’s achievement of pre-determined performance criteria. In August 2015, the Board signed resolutions whereby they agreed that the Company had achieved 55% of the pre-determined performance criteria and that the three executive employees should immediately vest in 55% of the options. This meant that the three executive employees had vested in the option to purchase, in the aggregate, 192,500 shares. In February 2016, the Board signed resolutions whereby they agreed that the Company had achieved another 45% of the pre-determined performance criteria and that the three executive employees should immediately vest in another 45% of the options. This meant that the three executive employees had vested in the option to purchase, in the aggregate, 332,500 shares. All such options, when exercised, will result in shares being issued with a restrictive legend unless the options are exercised in conjunction with a Rule 144 opinion.

 

In June 2015, the Board granted to thirty six non-executive employees the option to purchase, in the aggregate, 250,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $1.16 (the closing price on June 15, 2015). These options vest according to the following schedule: 50% on the year 1 grant anniversary; and 25% on each of the year 2 and year 3 grant anniversaries. All such options, when exercised, will result in shares being issued with a restrictive legend unless the options are exercised in conjunction with a Rule 144 opinion.

 

In June 2015, the Board granted to one executive employee and one non-executive employee the option to purchase, in the aggregate, 80,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $1.16 (the closing price on June 15, 2015). These options vest according to the following schedule: 50% on the year 1 grant anniversary; and 25% on each of the year 2 and year 3 grant anniversaries. All such options, when exercised, will result in shares being issued with a restrictive legend unless the options are exercised in conjunction with a Rule 144 opinion.

 

 F-17 

 

  

The following is a summary of outstanding options and warrants:

 

           Weighted Average 
   Options   Options   Intrinsic   Exercise   Remaining 
   Outstanding   Vested   Value   Price   Term 
                     
December 31, 2013   6,909,121    4,553,922    2.44    1.43    2.9 
Granted   10,557,968         1.51    1.48      
Exercised   (600,000)                    
Forfeited   (100,425)                    
December 31, 2014   16,766,664    3,217,500   $2.27   $1.41    2.8 
Granted   680,000         1.20    0.72      
Exercised   (5,538,556)                    
Forfeited   (105,289)                    
December 31, 2015   11,802,819    3,435,000   $2.12   $1.32    2.4 year 

     

11.Related Party Transactions

 

Beginning in April 2008, we entered into a month-to-month lease, at a monthly rate of $2,500 per month for facilities to occupy approximately 3,000 square feet of a 6,000 square foot building and the use of certain equipment and utilities, as needed. In January 2011, the Company expanded to occupy 5,000 square feet of the building and as a result, the rent was increased to $4,000 per month. The facility allows for expansion needs. The lease is held by EcoPlus, Inc., a company that is effectively controlled by Dr. Santilli.

 

 F-18 

 

  

On June, 25, 2010, we entered into an agreement to acquire a 20% ownership of MagneGas Europe (MagneGas Arc Applied Solutions, Belgium). In exchange, we issued to MagneGas Arc Applied Solutions 25,000 shares of common shares, which were valued at the fair market price at the date of grant, June 25, 2010, at $0.95 per share for an aggregate of $23,750. Dr. Santilli and Ermanno Santilli are stockholders of MagneGas Arc Applied Solutions, and at the time of the agreement, Ermanno Santilli, our current Chief Executive Officer, was the Chief Executive Officer of MagneGas Arc Applied Solutions and Vice President of MagneGas Corporation.

 

Employment Agreements

 

The employment agreement for Ermanno Santilli expired March 31, 2014 and the Board of Directors is currently negotiating an extension of this contract. Effective January 1, 2015, his annual salary was increased to $130,000 per year plus bonus to be determined by the Board based on performance.

 

The employment agreement for Luisa Ingargiola expired March 31, 2014 and the Board of Directors is currently negotiating an extension of this contract. Effective January 1, 2015, her annual salary was increased to $120,000 per year plus bonus to be determined by the Board based on performance.

 

Director Compensation

 

The five MagneGas independent board members and Carla Santilli, a non-employee and non-independent board member, receive $20,000 each in quarterly compensation for their services rendered on the Board of Directors. In the year ended December 31, 2015, four of the five independent board members received common stock equivalent shares, calculated based on the average common share price during the ten business days immediately prior to the end of each measurement quarter for compensation of directors (the 15th of February, May, August, and November) worth $40,000 and received cash of $40,000. Half of these shares were accrued and have not yet been issued. The fifth independent board member received shares (calculated in the same manner) worth $50,000 and cash of $30,000. The amount accrued was $20,000 of shares. Carla Santilli received shares (calculated in the same manner) worth $80,000 of which half were accrued and have not yet been issued.

 

12.Product Line Information

 

The following information is the results of our operating Product Line Revenues :

 

    Revenue     Costs     Margin  
                   
December 31, 2014                        
Segments:                        
Equipment Sales   $ 54,341     $ 64,983     $ (10,642 )
License Fees     93,332       -       93,332  
Metal Cutting     875,373       608,884       266,489  
    $ 1,023,046     $ 673,967     $ 349,179  
December 31, 2015                        
Segments:                        
Equipment Sales   $       $       $    
License Fees     46,666       -       46,666  
Metal Cutting     2,383,981       1,474,361       909,620  
    $ 2,430,647     $ 1,474,361     $ 956,286  

 

13.Contingencies

 

From time to time the Company may be a party to litigation matters involving claims against the Company. The Company operates with waste, hazardous material and within a highly regulated industry, which may lend itself to legal matters. Management believes that there are no current matters that would have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

On April 16, 2015, there was an accident at the Company’s facilities which occurred during the gas filling process. As a result of the accident, one employee was killed and one was injured but has recovered and has returned to work. Although the Company has Workers Compensation Insurance and General Liability Insurance, the financial impact of the accident is unknown at this time. No customers have terminated their relationship with the Company as a result of the accident. On October 14, 2015 the Company received their final report from the Occupational and Safety Hazard Administration (“OSHA”) related to the accident at the Company headquarters on April 16, 2015.  The OSHA report included findings, many of which were already resolved and a proposed citation. The Company was not cited for any willful misconduct and no final determination was made as to the cause of the accident.  The Company received citations related to various operational with a total fine of $52,000. The Company has also been informed by the U.S. Department of Transportation that it has closed its preliminary investigation with no findings or citations to the Company. The U.S. Department of Transportation has the right to re-open the investigation should new information become available.

 

The Company is still investigating the cause of the accident and there have been no conclusive findings as of this time.  It is unknown whether the final cause of the accident will be determined and whether those findings will negatively impact Company operations or sales.  The Company continues to be fully operational and transparent with all regulatory agencies.

 

14.Subsequent events

 

None.

 

 F-19 

 

 

  

Item 9.Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

 

There have been no disagreements with our auditor regarding accounting and financial disclosure.

 

Effective as of July 17, 2015, DKM Certified Public Accountants, Inc. (“DKM”) resigned as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm. On July 21, 2015, the Board of Directors of the Company engaged Stevenson & Company CPAS LLC (“Stevenson”) as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm.

 

On December 10, 2015, the SEC imposed sanctions on DKM. These sanctions are contained in the SEC document variously known as Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Release Number 76608; Accounting and Auditing Enforcement Release Number 3722; and Administrative Proceeding File Number 3-16994 (the “Order”). The SEC found, among other findings, that DKM was not independent of three public company audit clients (the “Issuers”) that they audited in 2012 and 2013. The Issuers are not identified by name in the Order. Based on the details in the Order, however, the Company can definitively state that it is not one of the Issuers referred to in the Order. The Company has not been notified of and the Company is unaware of any issues with the audits of the Company’s financial statements as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 and for each of the years then ended (the “2013 and 2014 Audited Financials”) that DKM performed. The Company is unaware of any reason that the 2013 and 2014 Audited Financials should no longer be relied upon.

 

One of the sanctions imposed on DKM is that it is suspended from appearing or practicing before the SEC as an accountant for at least two years. DKM, as a result of the suspension, can no longer issue an audit report for the 2014 audited financials for any of their clients (including the Company) that would have appeared in the Annual Reports on Form 10-K for the 2015 fiscal year of such clients. In addition, DKM can no longer consent to the incorporation by reference in any future registration statements of DKM’s audit report dated March 6, 2015 relative to the 2013 and 2014 Audited Financials. DKM not being able to issue audit reports or consents necessitated a reaudit of the Company’s 2014 financial statements. The Company retained Stevenson to perform this reaudit. The reaudited 2014 financial statements appear in this Report and did not result in a restatement. 

 

Item 9A.Controls and Procedures.

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Pursuant to Rule 13a-15(b) under the Exchange Act, the Company carried out an evaluation, with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) (the Company’s principal executive officer) and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) (the Company’s principal financial and accounting officer), of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined under Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon that evaluation, the Company’s CEO and CFO concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that the Company files or submits under the Exchange Act, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including the Company’s CEO and CFO, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management's Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.

  

The management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company. Our internal control system was designed to, in general, provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s management and Board regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements, but because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

  

Our management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015. The framework used by management in making that assessment was the criteria set forth in the document entitled “ Internal Control – Integrated Framework” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on that assessment, our management has determined that as of December 31, 2015, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was not effective for the purposes for which it is intended.

 

This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company’s registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management's report was not subject to attestation by the Company's registered public accounting firm as we are a smaller reporting company and not required to provide the report.

 

 23 

 

  

Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting

 

Item 9B.Other Information.

 

None.

 

 24 

 

  

PART III

 

Item 10.Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

  

Our directors, executive officers and key employees are listed below. The number of directors is determined by our Board. All directors hold office until the next annual meeting of the Board or until their successors have been duly elected and qualified. Officers are elected by the Board and their terms of office are, except to the extent governed by employment contract, at the discretion of the Board.

 

 

NAME   AGE   POSITION
         
Ermanno P. Santilli   46   Chief Executive Officer, Director
Luisa Ingargiola   48   Chief Financial Officer, Secretary, Director
Carla Santilli   74   Director
Christopher Huntington   55   Director
Kevin Pollack   45   Director
Joe C. Stone   49   Director
William Staunton III   67   Director
Robert Dingess   69   Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

Set forth below is a brief description of the background and business experience of our executive officers and directors for the past five years.

  

Ermanno P. Santilli has served as a Director since June 21, 2012 and has been our Chief Executive Officer since June of 2012 and is the son of Dr. Santilli and Carla Santilli. Prior to his role as CEO, Mr. Santilli was Executive Vice President of International Relations since 2009. Mr. Santilli was employed by Ingersoll Rand Company from March 2008 to April 2009 where he served as Vice President of Climate Control Business, Global Rail and Aftermarket. In this capacity he oversaw a department that generated over $270 million in sales and $80 million in operating income. He managed sales, business development, product management, and warehousing and dealer development with indirect procurement, manufacturing and engineering. Mr. Santilli also drove development of new business and rail markets in Australia and India.

 

From March 2006 to February 2008 Mr. Santilli served as Vice-President of Climate Control Aftermarket EMEA, he led a department that generated total sale of $150 million and operating income of $50 million. He was responsible for business development, product management, warehousing, procurement, engineering and dealer development with indirect sales. From December 2003 to February 2006 Mr. Santilli served as Vice-President of Customer Relations for Climate Control EMEA. He had operational responsibility for customer satisfaction for customers with total sales aggregating over 1 billion dollars. Mr. Santilli had direct responsibility for order management, credit and collections, warranty, business intelligence and dealer development.

 

Mr. Santilli’s qualifications to serve on our Board include his financial and management experience.

 

Luisa Ingargiola has served as our Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Director since May 2007 and is the daughter of Dr. Santilli and Carla Santilli. Ms. Ingargiola graduated in 1989 from Boston University with a Bachelor Degree in Business Administration and a concentration in Finance. In 1996 she received her MBA in Health Administration from the University of South Florida. In 1990 Ms. Ingargiola joined Boston Capital Partners as an Investment Advisor in their Limited Partnership Division. In this capacity, she worked with investors and partners to report investment results, file tax forms, and recommend investments.

 

In 1992, Ms. Ingargiola joined MetLife Insurance Company as a Budget and Expense Manager. In this capacity she managed a $30 million dollar annual budget. Her responsibilities included budget implementation, expense and variance analysis and financial reporting. In 2007, Ms. Ingargiola began work on the MagneGas Corporation business plan in preparation for her new role as CFO.

 

Ms. Ingargiola’s qualifications to serve on our Board include her financial, management, and reporting experience.

 

 25 

 

  

Carla Santilli has been a Director since May 2007 and is the spouse of Dr. Santilli and mother of Luisa Ingargiola and Ermanno Santilli. Mrs. Santilli holds a Master’s Degree in Human Services Administration from the School of Social Work of Boston University. She held positions of Clinical Social Worker and Community Programs Coordinator for the State of Massachusetts. Since the late 1980's, Mrs. Santilli has been employed as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Hadronic Press, Inc, a physics and mathematics academic publishing company. In this capacity, Mrs. Santilli has directed the growth of this company from start-up to become one of the world's leading physics and mathematics publishing companies. Books and journals published by Hadronic Press can be found in all of the leading University libraries across the world. Mrs. Santilli has been involved in the private sector as grant administrator and public relations specialist in the fields of academic publishing and environmental sciences.

 

Mrs. Santilli’s qualifications to serve on our Board include her thirty years of experience as President and Chief Executive Officer of Hadronic Press, Inc. and her experience in the environmental sciences field.

 

Christopher Huntington has served as Director since August 14, 2012. In 2013 he was appointed at Principal with Encap Development LLC, a leading U. S. renewable energy project developer. In 2010, Mr. Huntington co-founded the strategic consulting firm, New Energy Fund Advisors, LLC. In 2007, Mr. Huntington co-founded Skyfuel, Inc, a solar thermal power technology company, where he was the Vice President of Business Development from 2007 until 2010. In 2006, Mr. Huntington founded Redhook Renewable Energy Ventures, LLC, a consulting firm advising renewable energy and clean-tech companies on fund-raising, marketing and media strategies, which he was a principal until 2007. Mr. Huntington worked at the Cable News Network (CNN) from 1989 to 2006 as a financial news producer and correspondent. Prior to his employment at CNN, Mr. Huntington worked at Pacific Securities/Robert C. Brown & Co. as an assistant bond trader. Mr. Huntington attended the University of California, Berkley and was awarded a B. A. in Rhetoric and a special diploma in Social Studies from Oxford University.

 

Mr. Huntington’s qualifications to serve on our Board include his financial and management experience.

 

Kevin Pollack has served as a Director since June 21, 2012. Since 2012, Mr. Pollack has been Chief Financial Officer and a member of the board of directors of Opiant Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (formerly Lightlake Therapeutics), a biopharmaceutical company. From 2007 until 2013, Mr. Pollack was a managing director at Paragon Capital LP, a private investment firm focused primarily on U.S.-listed companies. Since 2003, Mr. Pollack has also served as president of Short Hills Capital LLC. Prior to that, Mr. Pollack worked as an investment banker at Banc of America Securities LLC, focusing on mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance, and the media and telecom sectors. Mr. Pollack started his career at Sidley Austin LLP (formerly Brown & Wood LLP) as a securities attorney. Since 2012, Mr. Pollack has served as a member of the board of directors of Pressure BioSciences, Inc. Mr. Pollack graduated  magna cum laude  from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and received a dual J.D./M.B.A. from Vanderbilt University, where he graduated with  Beta Gamma Sigma  honors.

 

Mr. Pollack’s qualifications to serve on our Board include his financial, management, and reporting experience.

 

Robert L. Dingess has served as Chairman of our Board of Directors since April 30, 2013. He has been the Chief Executive Officer of Ideal Management Services, Inc., d/b/a Ideal Image Central Florida, a laser hair removal company, since April 2004. From 1992 to 2002, Mr. Dingess served as the Chief Executive and owner of Dingess & Associates, Inc., a healthcare consulting and management company. From 1986 to 1992, Mr. Dingess was a partner in Ernst & Young’s Southeast Region Healthcare Operations Business Officer Practice, where he advised over 200 healthcare clients. Mr. Dingess holds a Master of Business Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Marshall University.

 

Mr. Dingess’ extensive experience in managing franchise operations, advising companies and more than twenty-five years of executive management give him the qualifications and skills to serve as a director of our Company.

 

William W. Staunton III has served as a Director since April 30, 2013. He has been the President of Accel–RF Corporation, a provider of RF Reliability Test Systems for compound semiconductor devices since 2012. In 2011, Mr. Staunton founded Kokua Executives, LLC, which provides guidance and interim executive level-leadership to companies. From 2000 to 2011, Mr. Staunton served as the Chief Executive Officer and a Director of Ramtron International Corporation, which designs, develops and markets specialized semiconductor memory, microcontroller, and integrated semiconductor solutions. From March 1999 until December 2000, Mr. Staunton served as Chief Operating Officer of Maxwell Technologies, which designs and manufactures multi-chip modules and board products for commercial satellite applications. Previously, Mr. Staunton was executive vice president of Valor Electronics Inc. from April 1996 until February 1999. Mr. Staunton holds a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from Utah State University.

 

Mr. Staunton's extensive experience in the semi-conductor industry, with specific background in Military and Space Contracting, give him the qualifications and skills to serve as a director of our Company.

 

 26 

 

  

Joe C. Stone has served as a Director since April 30, 2013. Since 2006, he has been a partner at Pace Petroleum, LLC, a private oil and natural gas company. In 2013 he was appointed as Managing Director at Blackhill Partners, LLC. From 2000 to 2006 Mr. Stone was a Senior Vice President of Global Mergers and Acquisitions at the financial services firm of Lehman Brothers. From 1996 until 2000, Mr. Stone was a Vice President in Investment Banking at Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown. Additionally, Mr. Stone was a Manager in Audit and Business Advisory Services at Price Waterhouse from 1991 until 1996. Mr. Stone holds a Master of Business Administration from McCombs School of Business, University of Texas, and a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from Baylor University.

 

Mr. Stone’s experience in the oil and gas industry as well as an investment banker gives him the qualifications and skills to serve as a director of our Company.

 

 27 

 

  

Controlled Company

 

The Board has determined that the Company meets the definition of a “Controlled Company” as defined by Rule 5615(c) of the NASDAQ Listing Rules. A “Controlled Company” is defined in Rule 5615(c) as a company of which more than 50% of the voting power for the election of directors is held by an individual, group or another company. Certain NASDAQ requirements do not apply to a “Controlled Company”, including requirements that: (i) a majority of its Board must be comprised of “independent” directors as defined in NASDAQ’s rules; and (ii) the compensation of officers and the nomination of directors be determined in accordance with specific rules, generally requiring determinations by committees comprised solely of independent directors or in meetings at which only the independent directors are present.

 

Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings

 

To the best of our knowledge, none of our directors or executive officers has, during the past ten years:

 

been convicted in a criminal proceeding or been subject to a pending criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses);
had any bankruptcy petition filed by or against the business or property of the person, or of any partnership, corporation or business association of which he was a general partner or executive officer, either at the time of the bankruptcy filing or within two years prior to that time;
been subject to any order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction or federal or state authority, permanently or temporarily enjoining, barring, suspending or otherwise limiting, his involvement in any type of business, securities, futures, commodities, investment, banking, savings and loan, or insurance activities, or to be associated with persons engaged in any such activity;
been found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the Securities and Exchange Commission or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to have violated a federal or state securities or commodities law, and the judgment has not been reversed, suspended, or vacated;
been the subject of, or a party to, any federal or state judicial or administrative order, judgment, decree, or finding, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated (not including any settlement of a civil proceeding among private litigants), relating to an alleged violation of any federal or state securities or commodities law or regulation, any law or regulation respecting financial institutions or insurance companies including, but not limited to, a temporary or permanent injunction, order of disgorgement or restitution, civil money penalty or temporary or permanent cease-and-desist order, or removal or prohibition order, or any law or regulation prohibiting mail or wire fraud or fraud in connection with any business entity; or
been the subject of, or a party to, any sanction or order, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any self-regulatory organization (as defined in Section 3(a)(26) of the Exchange Act), any registered entity (as defined in Section 1(a)(29) of the Commodity Exchange Act), or any equivalent exchange, association, entity or organization that has disciplinary authority over its members or persons associated with a member.

 

Except as set forth in our discussion below in “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions,” none of our directors or executive officers has been involved in any transactions with us or any of our directors, executive officers, affiliates or associates which are required to be disclosed pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Commission.

 

Term of Office

 

Our directors are appointed for a one-year term to hold office until the next annual general meeting of our shareholders or until removed from office in accordance with our bylaws. Our officers are appointed by our Board and hold office until removed by the Board.

  

Code of Ethics

 

We have adopted a code of ethics as of April 4, 2008 that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, and principal accounting officer as well as our employees. Our standards are in writing and are to be posted on our website at a future time. The following is a summation of the key points of the Code of Ethics we adopted:

 

Honest and ethical conduct, including ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships;
Full, fair, accurate, timely, and understandable disclosure reports and documents that a small business issuer files with, or submits to, the Commission and in other public communications made by our Company;
Full compliance with applicable government laws, rules and regulations;
The prompt internal reporting of violations of the code to an appropriate person or persons identified in the code; and
Accountability for adherence to the code.

 

 28 

 

  

Corporate Governance

 

The business and affairs of the company are managed under the direction of our Board. We conducted one formal Board meeting in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015. Each of our directors has attended all meetings either in person or via telephone conference. The Board also conducted monthly telephone calls in which the majority of the independent Board members were always present. In addition to the contact information in this annual report, each stockholder will be given specific information on how he/she can direct communications to the officers and directors of the corporation at our annual stockholders meeting. All communications from stockholders are relayed to the members of the Board.   

 

Board Leadership Structure and Role in Risk Oversight

 

Our Board is primarily responsible for overseeing our risk management processes. The Board receives and reviews periodic reports from management, auditors, legal counsel, and others, as considered appropriate regarding our company’s assessment of risks. The Board focuses on the most significant risks facing our company and our company’s general risk management strategy, and also ensures that risks undertaken by our company are consistent with the Board’s appetite for risk. While the Board oversees our company’s risk management, management is responsible for day-to-day risk management processes. We believe this division of responsibilities is the most effective approach for addressing the risks facing our company and that our Board leadership structure supports this approach.

 

The audit committee, which was formed on June 21, 2012, assists our Board in its general oversight of, among other things, the company’s policies, guidelines and related practices regarding risk assessment and risk management, including the risk of fraud. As part of this endeavor, the audit committee reviews and assesses the company’s major financial, legal, regulatory, environmental and similar risk exposures and the steps that management has taken to monitor and control such exposures. The audit committee also reviews and assesses the quality and integrity of the company’s public reporting, the company’s compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, the performance and independence of the company’s independent auditors, the performance of the company’s internal audit department, the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures, and the adequacy and effectiveness of the company’s risk management policies and related practices.

 

Committees of the Board of Directors

 

On June 21, 2012, our Board formed three standing committees: audit, compensation, and corporate governance and nominating. Actions taken by our committees are reported to the full Board. The Board has determined that all members of each of the audit and compensation committees are independent under the current listing standards of NASDAQ. Our corporate governance and nominating committee is made up of two independent directors and one employee director. Each of our committees has a charter and each charter is posted on our website.

 

Audit Committee   Compensation Committee   Corporate Governance and
Nominating Committee
Robert Dingess*   William Staunton III*   Luisa Ingargiola*
Kevin Pollack   Kevin Pollack   Robert Dingess
Christopher Huntington   Joe C. Stone   Kevin Pollack

 

* Indicates committee chair

 

Audit Committee

  

Our audit committee, which currently consists of three directors, provides assistance to our Board in fulfilling its legal and fiduciary obligations with respect to matters involving the accounting, financial reporting, internal control and compliance functions of the company. Our audit committee employs an independent registered public accounting firm to audit the financial statements of the company and perform other assigned duties. Further, our audit committee provides general oversight with respect to the accounting principles employed in financial reporting and the adequacy of our internal controls. In discharging its responsibilities, our audit committee may rely on the reports, findings and representations of the company’s auditors, legal counsel, and responsible officers. Our Board has determined that all members of the audit committee are financially literate within the meaning of SEC rules and under the current listing standards of NASDAQ. Our Board has also determined that Mr. Dingess qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert.” The audit committee has met four times since its formation on June 21, 2012.

 

 29 

 

  

Compensation Committee

 

Our compensation committee, which currently consists of three directors, establishes executive compensation policies consistent with the company’s objectives and stockholder interests. Our compensation committee also reviews the performance of our executive officers and establishes, adjusts and awards compensation, including incentive-based compensation, as more fully discussed below. The compensation committee met two times in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015. In addition, our compensation committee generally is responsible for:

 

establishing and periodically reviewing our compensation philosophy and the adequacy of compensation plans and programs for our directors, executive officers and other employees;

 

overseeing our compensation plans, including the establishment of performance goals under the company’s incentive compensation arrangements and the review of performance against those goals in determining incentive award payouts;

 

overseeing our executive employment contracts, special retirement benefits, severance, change in control arrangements and/or similar plans;

 

acting as administrator of any company stock option plans; and

 

overseeing the outside consultant, if any, engaged by the compensation committee.

 

Our compensation committee periodically reviews the compensation paid to our non-employee Directors and the principles upon which their compensation is determined. The compensation committee also periodically reports to the Board on how our non-employee Director compensation practices compare with those of other similarly situated public corporations and, if the compensation committee deems it appropriate, recommends changes to our director compensation practices to our Board for approval.

 

Outside consulting firms retained by our compensation committee and management also will, if requested, provide assistance to the compensation committee in making its compensation-related decisions.

 

Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee

 

Our corporate governance and nominating committee, which currently consists of three directors, monitors our corporate governance system, assesses Board membership needs, makes recommendations to the Board regarding potential director candidates for election at the annual meetings of stockholders or in the event of any director vacancy, and performs any other functions or duties deemed appropriate by the Board. The corporate governance and nominating committee has not met since its formation on June 21, 2012.

 

Director candidates must have experience in positions with a high degree of responsibility and leadership experience in the companies or institutions with which they are or have been affiliated. Directors are selected based upon contributions that they can make to the company. The company does not maintain a separate policy regarding the diversity of its Board members. However, consistent with its charter, the corporate governance and nominating committee, and ultimately the Board, seeks directors (including nominees for director) with diverse personal and professional backgrounds, experience and perspectives that, when combined, provide a diverse portfolio of experience and knowledge that will well serve the company’s governance and strategic needs.

 

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

 

Under Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act, our directors and certain of our officers, and persons holding more than 10 percent of our common stock are required to file forms reporting their beneficial ownership of our common stock and subsequent changes in that ownership with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

 30 

 

  

Based solely upon a review of copies of such forms filed on Forms 3, 4, and 5, and amendments thereto furnished to us, we believe that as of December 31, 2015, our executive officers, directors and greater than 10 percent beneficial owners have complied on a timely basis with all Section 16(a) filing requirements, with the exception of our officers, directors and greater than 10 percent beneficial owners listed in the table below: 

 

Name   Number of
Late Reports
  Number and Description of Transactions Not Reported on a Timely Basis
         
Carla Santilli   62   61 transactions were not reported on a timely basis following the disposition of shares and 1 transaction was not reported on a timely basis following the acquisition of shares in the year ended December 31, 2015.
         
Christopher Huntington   3   2 transactions were not reported on a timely basis following the disposition of shares and 1 transaction was not reported on a timely basis following the acquisition of shares in the year ended December 31, 2015.
         
Kevin Pollack   1   1 transaction was not reported on a timely basis following the acquisition of shares in the year ended December 31, 2015.
         
Robert Dingess   1   1 transaction was not reported on a timely basis following the acquisition of shares in the year ended December 31, 2015.
         
Joe C. Stone   1   1 transaction was not reported on a timely basis following the acquisition of shares in the year ended December 31, 2015.
         
William Staunton III   1   1 transaction was not reported on a timely basis following the acquisition of shares in the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

Item 11.Executive Compensation.

 

Summary Compensation Table

 

The following summary compensation table sets forth all compensation awarded to, earned by, or paid to the named executive officers paid by us during the years ended December 31, 2015, and 2014 in all capacities. Our named executive officers for 2014 and 2015 were our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and Executive Vice President of Strategic Alliances.  

 

Name and Principal Position   Year     Salary     Bonus     Stock
Awards
($)
    Option
Awards
    Non-Qualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings
    All Other
Compensation
    Totals
($)
 
                                                 
Ermanno Santilli, CEO     2015     $ 130,000     $ 65,520             $ 77,357 (1)                     $ 272,877  
      2014       120,000                       0                       120,000  
                                                                 
Luisa Ingargiola, CFO (2)     2015     $ 120,000     $ 54,600             $ 51,571 (2)                     $ 226,171  
      2014       100,000                       0                       100,000  
                                                                 
Jack Armstrong, Executive Vice     2015     $ 116,000     $ 44,880             $ 51,571 (3)                     212,451  
President of Strategic Alliances     2014       80,000       36,000               31,784 (4)                       147,784  

 

 31 

 

 

(1)In February 2015, the Board granted to Ermanno Santilli 150,000 shares of common stock options at an exercise price of $0.72 (the closing price on February 13, 2015) with a vesting schedule that was to be determined by the Board based on the Company’s achievement of pre-determined performance criteria. In August 2015, the Board signed resolutions whereby they agreed that the Company had achieved 55% of the pre-determined performance criteria and that Mr. Santilli should immediately vest in 55% of the options. This meant that Mr. Santilli had vested in the option to purchase 82,500 shares. In February 2016, the Board signed resolutions whereby they agreed that the Company had achieved another 45% of the pre-determined performance criteria and that Mr. Santilli should immediately vest in another 45% of the options. This meant that Mr. Santilli had vested in the option to purchase, in the aggregate, 142,500 shares. All such options, when exercised, will result in shares being issued with a restrictive legend unless the options are exercised in conjunction with a Rule 144 opinion.

 

(2)In February 2015, the Board granted to Luisa Ingargiola 100,000 shares of common stock options with the same exercise price, vesting schedule, and restrictions identified in Note (1) to the Executive Compensation table.

 

(3)In February 2015, the Board granted to Jack Armstrong 100,000 shares of common stock options with the same exercise price, vesting schedule, and restrictions identified in Note (1) to the Executive Compensation table.

 

(4)In April 2014, the Board granted to Jack Armstrong 25,000 shares of common stock options with an exercise price of $1.49 (the closing price on March 17, 2014). The vesting schedule is as follows: 50% vested in April 2015, 25% will vest in April 2016, and 25% will vest in April 2017. These options were issued pursuant to the Incentive Plan and so all such options, when exercised, will result in shares being issued without a restrictive legend.

 

 32 

 

  

Employment Agreements

 

The employment agreement for Ermanno Santilli expired March 31, 2014 and the Board is currently negotiating an extension of this contract. Effective January 1, 2015, his annual salary was increased to $130,000 per year plus bonus to be determined by the Board based on performance.

 

The employment agreement for Luisa Ingargiola expired March 31, 2014 and the Board is currently negotiating an extension of this contract. Effective January 1, 2015, her annual salary was increased to $120,000 per year plus bonus to be determined by the Board based on performance. 

 

Director Compensation

 

We have provided Compensation to the Directors in the form of common stock equivalent. Each non-employee Director receives a combination of common stock and cash for a total of $20,000 per quarter in compensation.

 

The following table provides information for 2015 regarding all compensation awarded to, earned by or paid to each person who served as a non-employee Director (all of whom are independent except for Carla Santilli) for some portion or all of 2015 other than as set forth in the table, to date we have not paid any fees to or, except for reasonable expenses for attending Board and committee meetings, reimbursed any expenses of our directors, made any equity or non-equity awards to directors, or paid any other compensation to directors.

  

Name  Fees
Earned or
Paid in
Cash
($)
   Stock
Awards
(1)
($)
   Option
Awards
($)
   Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($)
   Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings
($)
   All
Other
Compensation
($)
   Total ($) 
Carla Santilli  $0   $     80,000                   $80,000 
Chris Huntington  $40,000   $     40,000                   $80,000 
Kevin Pollack  $40,000   $     40,000                   $80,000 
Robert Dingess  $30,000   $     50,000(2)                  $80,000 
Joe C. Stone  $40,000   $     40,000                   $80,000 
William Staunton III  $40,000   $     40,000                   $80,000 

 

(1)

(2)

Half of the stock awards of each director besides Robert Dingess were accrued and have not yet been issued.

Mr. Dingess received shares of common stock worth $30,000 and accrued shares of common stock worth $20,000.

  

Item 12.     Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.

 

The following table sets forth certain information regarding our shares of common stock beneficially owned as of March 18, 2016, for (i) each stockholder known to be the beneficial owner of 5% or more of our outstanding shares of common stock, (ii) each named executive officer and director, and (iii) all executive officers and directors as a group. A person is considered to beneficially own any shares: (i) over which such person, directly or indirectly, exercises sole or shared voting or investment power, or (ii) of which such person has the right to acquire beneficial ownership at any time within 60 days through an exercise of stock options or warrants. Unless otherwise indicated, voting and investment power relating to the shares shown in the table for our directors and executive officers is exercised solely by the beneficial owner or shared by the owner and the owner’s spouse or children.

 

For purposes of this table, a person or group of persons is deemed to have “beneficial ownership” of any shares of common stock that such person has the right to acquire within 60 days of March 18, 2016. For purposes of computing the percentage of outstanding shares of our common stock held by each person or group of persons named above, any shares that such person or persons has the right to acquire within 60 days of March 18, 2016, is deemed to be outstanding, but is not deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person. The inclusion herein of any shares listed as beneficially owned does not constitute an admission of beneficial ownership. Unless otherwise specified, the address of each of the persons set forth below is care of the company at the address of: 150 Rainville Road, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689.

 

 33 

 

  

Name of Beneficial Owner and Address  Amount and
Nature of
Beneficial
Ownership of
Common
Stock
   Percent of
Common
Stock (1)
   Amount and
Nature of
Beneficial
Ownership of
Preferred Stock
   Percent of
Preferred
Stock (2)
 
5% Shareholders                    
Global Alpha, LLC (3)
90 Eastwinds Ct
Palm Harbor FL 34683
   2,307,829    5.04%   1,000,000    100%
                     
Dr. Ruggero Maria Santilli
90 Eastwinds Ct
Palm Harbor FL 34683
   4,007,900(4)   8.61%   1,000,000(5)   100%
Directors and
Executive Officers
                    
Carla Santilli
90 Eastwinds Ct
Palm Harbor FL 34683
   4,007,900(4)   8.61%   1,000,000(5)   100%
                     
Luisa Ingargiola
4826 Blue Jay Circle
Palm Harbor FL 34083
   737,878(6)   1.60%   1,000,000(5)     
                     
Ermanno Santilli
90 Eastwinds Ct
Palm Harbor FL 34683
   1,272,654(7)   2.75%   1,000,000(5)     
                     
Joe Stone   155,341(8)   *           
                     
William Staunton   113,656(9)   *           
                     
Robert Dingess   1,418,892(10)   3.10%          
                     
Christopher Huntington   12,323(11)   *           
                     
Kevin Pollack   127,079(12)   *           
                     
All directors and officers as a group (8 people)   7,575,723(13)   15.92%   1,000,000    100%

 

* Less than 1%.

 

(1) Based on 45,749,534 shares of common stock outstanding as of March 18, 2016. Shares of common stock subject to options or warrants currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days, are deemed outstanding for purposes of computing the percentage of the person holding such options or warrants, but are not deemed outstanding for purposes of computing the percentage of any other person.

 

(2) Based on 1,000,000 shares of Series A Preferred Stock issued and outstanding as of March 18, 2016. Each share of Series A Preferred Stock has voting rights of 100,000 votes per share. The total aggregate number of votes for the Series A Preferred Stock is 100 billion.

 

(3) Global Alpha, LLC is a privately owned company of which Dr. Ruggero Santilli and Carla Santilli each own 50%. Ermanno Santilli and Luisa Ingargiola are voting members of Global Alpha but have no equity interest.

 

 34 

 

 

(4)

Consists of 2,307,829 restricted shares of Global Alpha; 186,000 restricted shares held by Global Beta, LLC, a privately owned company whose address is 35246 US 19 #215, Palm Harbor, FL 34684, of which Dr. Ruggero Santilli and Carla Santilli, the wife of Dr. Santilli, each own 50%; 313,000 restricted shares held by Clean Energies Tech, a privately owned company of which Dr. Santilli owns 50%; 270,000 restricted shares held by the RM Santilli Foundation, a foundation of which Mrs. Santilli controls 50%; 10,000 restricted shares held in Dr. Santilli’s own name; 525,000 shares of common stock underlying options held by Dr. Santilli that are presently exercisable; 76,320 free trading shares held in the name of Mrs. Santilli; 19,751 restricted shares held in the name of Mrs. Santilli; and 300,000 shares of common stock underlying options held by Mrs. Santilli, that are presently exercisable. The principal address of Clean Energies Tech and the RM Santilli Foundation is 90 Eastwinds Ct., Palm Harbor, FL, 34683. 

   
(5) These shares are held by Global Alpha, a privately owned company of which Dr. Santilli and Mr. Santilli each own 50%. Ermanno Santilli and Luisa Ingargiola are voting members of Global Alpha but have no equity interest.

 

(6) Consists of 241,304 restricted shares held in Ms. Ingargiola’s own name; 96,574 free trading shares held in a brokerage account; and 400,000 shares of common stock underlying options held by Ms. Ingargiola that are presently exercisable.

 

(7) Consists of 377,654 restricted shares held in Mr. Santilli’s own name; 25,000 restricted shares held by MagneGas Arc Applied Solutions Europe, a privately owned company whose address is Rue Aux Fleurs 1, Brussels 1000 Belgium, of which Mr. Santilli owns more than 50%; 270,000 restricted shares held by the RM Santilli Foundation, a foundation of which Mr. Santilli controls 50%; and 600,000 shares of common stock underlying options held by Mr. Santilli that are presently exercisable.

 

(8) Consists of 38,161 free trading shares held in the name of Mr. Stone; and 117,180 restricted shares held in the name of Mr. Stone.
   
(9) Consists of 15,609 restricted shares held in the name of Mr. Staunton; and 98,047 free trading shares held in a brokerage account.
   
(10) Consists of 50,67 free trading shares held in the name of Mr. Dingess; 708,625 restricted shares held in the name of Mr. Dingess and/or in the name of his wife; and 660,000 free trading shares held in a brokerage account.
   
(11) Consists of 12,323 free trading shares held in a brokerage account.
   
(12) Consists of 38,161 free trading shares held in the name of Mr. Pollack; and 88,918 restricted shares held in the name of Mr. Pollack.
   
(13) The total does not equal the sum of each entry due to some shares being included in more than one entry.

 

Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans

 

The following table provides information as of December 31, 2015, regarding shares of common stock that may be issued under the Company’s 2014 Equity Incentive Award Plan (the “Equity Plan”). The Equity Plan was approved by the Company’s shareholders and is the Company’s sole equity compensation plan.

 

Plan category  (a)
Number of securities
to be issued
upon exercise
of outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
   (b)
Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
   (c)
Number of securities
remaining available
for future issuance
under equity
compensation plans
(excluding securities
reflected in column
(a))
 
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders (1)   235,000    1.49    11,603 
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders (2)   0         0 
Total   235,000         11,603 

 

 35 

 

  

(1) Consists of the Equity Plan. In the year ended December 31, 2014, 235,000 shared underlying options were issued and 558,914 shares of common stock were issued pursuant to the Equity Plan. In the year ended December 31, 2015, 194,483 shares of common stock were issued pursuant to the Equity Plan.

 

(2) N/A.

 

Item 13.     Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.

 

Transactions with Related Persons

 

Since January 1, 2014, there have been no related party transactions in which the amount involved exceeded the lesser of $120,000 or one percent of the average of the smaller reporting company's total assets at year end for the last two completed fiscal years.

 

Director Independence

 

NASDAQ Listing Rule 5605(a)(2) provides that an “independent director” is a person other than an officer or employee of the Company or any other individual having a relationship which, in the opinion of the Company’s Board, would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director. The NASDAQ listing rules provide that a director cannot be considered independent if:

 

  the director is, or at any time during the past three years was, an employee of the company;
  the director or a family member of the director accepted any compensation from the company in excess of $120,000 during any period of 12 consecutive months within the three years preceding the independence determination (subject to certain exclusions, including, among other things, compensation for board or board committee service);
  a family member of the director is, or at any time during the past three years was, an executive officer of the company;
  the director or a family member of the director is a partner in, controlling stockholder of, or an executive officer of an entity to which the company made, or from which the company received, payments in the current or any of the past three fiscal years that exceed 5% of the recipient’s consolidated gross revenue for that year or $200,000, whichever is greater (subject to certain exclusions);
  the director or a family member of the director is employed as an executive officer of an entity where, at any time during the past three years, any of the executive officers of the company served on the compensation committee of such other entity; or the director or a family member of the director is a current partner of the company’s outside auditor, or at any time during the past three years was a partner or employee of the company’s outside auditor, and who worked on the company’s audit.

 

 36 

 

  

As of March 18, 2016, our Board is composed of eight members, of which five are independent. The five independent directors are Christopher Huntington, Kevin Pollack, William Staunton III, Robert Dingess and Joe C. Stone. In addition, as indicated above, each of our audit committee and compensation committee, described above in “Committees of the Board of Directors,” is composed entirely of independent directors, including the chairperson of the audit committee. Our corporate governance and nominating committee is made up of two independent directors and one employee director, Luisa Ingargiola. We have not yet appointed chairpersons for the compensation committee and the corporate governance and nominating committee. We believe that the number of independent directors that make up our Board benefits the company, as well as our stockholders.

 

Item 14.     Principal Accounting Fees and Services.

 

Audit Fees

 

The aggregate fees billed by Stevenson for professional services rendered for the audit of the Company’s financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015 and for the review of the Company’s financial statements for the periods ended June 30, 2015 and September 30, 2015 was $63,000.

 

The aggregate fees billed by Stevenson for the reaudit of the Company’s financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014 was $19,000.

 

The aggregate fees billed by DKM for the review of the Company’s financial statements for the period ended March 31, 2015 was $4,500.

 

Audit Related Fees

 

There were no fees for audit related services for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.

 

Tax Fees

 

For the Company’s fiscal years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, we were not billed for professional services rendered for tax compliance, tax advice, and tax planning.

 

All Other Fees

 

All of the above services and fees were reviewed and approved by our audit committee. No services were performed before or without approval.

 

 37 

 

  

PART IV

 

Item 15.Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules.

 

 Exhibit       Incorporated by Reference   Filed or
Furnished
 
 Number   Exhibit Description   Form   Exhibit   Filing Date   Herewith  
3.1   Certificate of Incorporation, as amended March 26, 2007, February 3, 2009, and June 22, 2012.   8-K   3.1   6/25/2012      
3.1   Certificate of Incorporation, as amended December 9, 2013.   8-K   3.1   12/10/2013      
3.3   Bylaws.   10SB   3.2   04/03/2006      
4.1   Certificate of Designation for Series A Preferred Stock.   S-1   3.1(b)   5/30/2012      
4.2   Amendment to Certificate of Designation for Series A Preferred Stock.   8-K   4.1   5/16/2013      
4.3   Certificate of Designation for Series B Preferred Stock.   10-K   3.1(c)   3/27/2014      
4.4   Certificate of Designation for Series C Preferred Stock.   10-Q   4.4   5/12/2014      
4.5   Certificate of Designation for Series D-1 Preferred Stock.   S-3   4.5   11/26/2014      
4.6   Certificate of Designation for Series D-2 Preferred Stock.   S-3   4.6   11/26/2014      
4.7   Form of Class A Warrant.   8-K   4.1   10/28/2011      
4.8   Form of Placement Agent Warrant with Regard to Class A Offering.   8-K   4.2   11/08/2011      
4.9   Engagement Warrant with Regard to Class A Private Offering, issued August 4, 2011, as amended December 23, 2011.   S-1   4.3   01/25/2012      
4.10   Form of Class B Warrant.   8-K   4.1   04/03/2012      
4.11   Form of Placement Agent Warrant with Regard to Class B Offering.   8-K   4.2   04/03/2012      
4.12   Form of Underwriters Warrant with Regard to 2012 Public Offering.   S-1   4.6   06/19/2012      
4.13   Form of Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 31, 2013, by and between MagneGas Corporation and Northland Securities, Inc   8-K   1.1   05/31/2013      
4.14   Form of Warrant with Regard to January 2014 Private Offering.   8-K   4.2   01/22/2014      
4.15   Form of Placement Agent Warrant with Regard to January 2014 Offering.   8-K   4.3   01/22/2014      
4.16   Form of Warrant with Regard to March 2014 Offering.   8-K   4.2   03/27/2014      
4.17   Form of Placement Agent Warrant with Regard to March 2014 Offering.   8-K   4.3   03/27/2014      
4.18   Form of Warrant with Regard to October 2014 Offering.   8-K   4.3   10/21/2014      
4.19   Form of Placement Agent Warrant with Regard to October 2014 Offering.   8-K   4.4   10/21/2014      
10.1*   Employment Agreement with Ermanno Santilli.   S-1   10.3   05/18/2012      
10.2*   Employment Agreement with Luisa Ingargiola.   S-1   10.4   07/24/2012      
10.3*   2014 Equity Incentive Award Plan.   S-8   10.1   04/04/2014      
10.4   Gasifier Purchase Agreement, dated March 20, 2013, by and between MagneGas Corporation and Clear Sky Energy S. A. de C. V.   8-K   10.1   03/21/2013      
10.5   Distribution Agreement, dated March 20, 2013, by and between MagneGas Corporation and Clear Sky Energy S. A. de C. V.   8-K   10.2   03/21/2013      
10.6   License Agreement, dated March 20, 2013, by and between MagneGas Corporation and Clear Sky Energy S. A. de C. V.   8-K   10.3   03/21/2013      
10.7   Placement Agency Agreement for January 2014 Registered Offering.   8-K   10.1   01/22/2014      
 38 

 

  

 Exhibit       Incorporated by Reference   Filed or
Furnished
 
 Number   Exhibit Description   Form   Exhibit   Filing Date   Herewith  
10.8   Commercial Contract for the Purchase of 11885 44th Street North, Clearwater, Florida 33762, dated June 25, 2014.   8-K   10.1   10/02/2014      
10.9   Joint Venture Agreement with FutureEnergy Pty Ltd., dated March 19, 2014.   8-K   10.3   10/09/2014      
10.10   Stock Purchase Agreement with Regard to Equipment Sales and Service, Inc, dated October 10, 2014, as amended on October 27, 2014.   8-K   10.1   11/03/2014      
10.11   Commercial Contract for the Sale of Property, dated January 12, 2015.   8-K   10.1   01/14/2015      
10.12   Addendum to Commercial Contract for the Sale of Property, dated January 21, 2015.   8-K   10.2   03/05/2015      
10.13   Second Addendum to Commercial Contract for the Sale of Property, dated February 27, 2015.   8-K   10.1   03/05/2015      
10.14   Tri-Party Joint Venture Implemented Through a Limited Liability Company, March 20, 2015.   10-Q   10.1   05/11/2015      
10.15   Gasifier Purchase Agreement, dated November 10, 2015.   8-K   10.1   11/13/2015      
10.16   Extension to Tri-Party Joint Venture Implemented Through a Limited Liability Company, December 26, 2015.               X  
21.1   Subsidiaries of the Registrant.               X  
31.1   Certification of Principal Executive Officer, pursuant to 18 U. S. C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.               X  
31.2   Certification of Principal Financial Officer, pursuant to 18 U. S. C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.               X  
32.1**   Certification of Principal Executive Officer, pursuant to 18 U. S. C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.               X  
32.2**   Certification of Principal Financial Officer, pursuant to 18 U. S. C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.               X  
101.INS   XBRL Instance.               X  
101.XSD   XBRL Schema.               X  
101.PRE   XBRL Presentation.               X  
101.CAL   XBRL Calculation.               X  
101.DEF   XBRL Definition.               X  
101.LAB   XBRL Label.               X  

 

 

 

* Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement, as required by Item 15(a) (3) of Form 10-K.

** In accordance with SEC Release 33-8238, Exhibits 32.1 and 32.2 are being furnished and not filed.

 

 39 

 

  

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

  MagneGas Corporation  
       
Dated: March 23, 2016 By: /s/ Ermanno Santilli  
    Ermanno Santilli  
   

Chief Executive Officer

(Duly Authorized, Principal Executive Officer)

 

 

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

  

Signature   Title   Date
         
/s/ Robert L. Dingess   Chairman of the Board of Directors   March 23, 2016
Robert L. Dingess        
         
/s/ Ermanno Santilli   Chief Executive Officer and Director   March 23, 2016
Ermanno Santilli   (principal executive officer)    
         
/s/ Luisa Ingargiola   Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Director   March 23, 2016
Luisa Ingargiola   (principal financial and accounting officer)    
         
/s/ Carla Santilli   Director   March 23, 2016
Carla Santilli        
         
/s/ Christopher Huntington   Director   March 23, 2016
Christopher Huntington        
         
/s/ Kevin Pollack   Director   March 23, 2016
Kevin Pollack        
         
/s/ William W. Staunton III   Director   March 23, 2016
William W. Staunton III        
         
/s/ Joe C. Stone   Director   March 23, 2016
Joe C. Stone        

 

40