T3 Defense Inc PRE 14A, filed Sep 17, 2024
T3 Defense Inc. (DFNS)
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Schedule 14A
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
(Amendment No. )
Filed by the Registrant ☒
Filed by a party other than the Registrant ☐
Check the appropriate box:
| ☒ | Preliminary Proxy Statement |
| ☐ | Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2)) |
| ☐ | Definitive Proxy Statement |
| ☐ | Definitive Additional Materials |
| ☐ | Soliciting Material under § 240.14a-12 |
Nukkleus Inc.
(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)
Payment of Filing Fee (Check all boxes that apply):
| ☒ | No fee required |
| ☐ | Fee paid previously with preliminary materials. |
| ☐ | Fee computed on table in exhibit required by Item 25(b) per Exchange Act Rules 14a- 6(i)(1) and 0-11 |
Nukkleus Inc.
2024
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING
AND
PROXY STATEMENT
*, 2024
at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time
Virtual Meeting to be Held by Webcast
Nukkleus Inc.
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON *, 2024
The 2024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”) of Nukkleus Inc. (“Nukkleus” or the “Company”) will be held virtually by webcast, on *, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time, to consider the below proposals. As in recent years, in order to provide safe and expanded access, improved communication, reduced environmental impact and cost savings, the Annual Meeting will be held in a virtual meeting format at https://*.
| 1. | To elect the seven director nominees named in the Proxy Statement to hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until their successors are duly elected and qualified; |
| 2. | To ratify the appointment of GreenGrowth CPAs as the Company’s independent auditors for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024; |
| 3. | To approve an amendment to our amendment and restated certificate of incorporation to effect a reverse stock split at a ratio not less than 1-for-2 and not greater than 1-for-30, with the exact ratio to be set within that range at the discretion of our board of directors before September 30, 2025 without further approval or authorization of our stockholders (the “Reverse Split Proposal”). The board of directors may alternatively elect to abandon such proposed amendment and not effect the reverse stock split authorized by stockholders, in its sole discretion; |
| 4. | To approve and ratify the 2024 Equity Incentive Plan and the authorization of 10,000,000 shares of common stock for issuance thereunder; |
| 5. | To approve an amendment to our amended and restated certificate of incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock from 40,000,000 to 150,000,000; and |
| 6. | To act on such other matters as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment thereof. |
BECAUSE OF THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THESE PROPOSALS TO THE COMPANY AND ITS STOCKHOLDERS, IT IS VITAL THAT EVERY STOCKHOLDER VOTE AT THE ANNUAL MEETING IN PERSON OR BY PROXY.
These proposals are fully set forth in the accompanying Proxy Statement which you are urged to read thoroughly. For the reasons set forth in the Proxy Statement, your Board of Directors recommends a vote “FOR” the directors set forth in Proposal 1 and “FOR” Proposals 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. A list of all stockholders entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting will be available at the principal office of the Company during usual business hours for examination by any stockholder for any purpose germane to the Annual Meeting for 10 days prior to the date thereof. Stockholders are cordially invited to attend the Annual Meeting.
In order to provide safe and expanded access, improved communication, reduced environmental impact and cost savings we are pleased that for this year’s Annual Meeting we will again be hosting a completely virtual meeting of stockholders, which will be conducted solely online via live webcast. You will be able to attend and participate in the Annual Meeting online and submit your questions prior to and during the meeting by visiting: https://* at the meeting date and time described in the accompanying proxy statement. There is no physical location for the Annual Meeting.
We are pleased to embrace the latest technology to provide safe and expanded access, improved communication, reduced environmental impact and cost savings for our stockholders and the Company. If you plan to attend the meeting virtually on the Internet, please follow the registration instructions as outlined in this proxy statement.
However, whether or not you plan to attend the meeting virtually, your shares should be represented and voted. After reading the enclosed Proxy Statement, please sign, date, and return promptly the enclosed Proxy in the accompanying postpaid envelope we have provided for your convenience to ensure that your shares will be represented. Alternatively, please provide your response by telephone or electronically through the Internet by following the instructions set out on the enclosed Proxy card. If you do attend the meeting virtually and wish to vote your shares personally, you may revoke your Proxy.
Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held *, 2024. In addition to the copies you have received, the Proxy Statement and our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K to Stockholders are available at: www.*.
| By Order of the Board of Directors | |
| /s/ Menachem Shalom | |
| Menachem Shalom | |
| Chief Executive Officer and Director |
WHETHER OR NOT YOU PLAN ON ATTENDING THE MEETING VIRTUALLY, PLEASE VOTE AS PROMPTLY AS POSSIBLE TO ENSURE THAT YOUR VOTE IS COUNTED.
Nukkleus Inc.
525 Washington Blvd.
Jersey City, New Jersey 07310
212-791-4663
PROXY STATEMENT
This Proxy Statement is furnished in connection with the solicitation of proxies by the Board of Directors of Nukkleus Inc. (“Nukkleus” or the “Company”) to be voted at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”) which will be held virtually via webcast on *, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time, and at any postponements or adjournments thereof. The proxy materials will be furnished to stockholders on or about *, 2024.
REVOCABILITY OF PROXY AND SOLICITATION
Any stockholder executing a proxy that is solicited hereby has the power to revoke it prior to the voting of the proxy. Revocation may be made by attending the Annual Meeting and voting the shares of stock virtually in person, or by delivering to the Corporate Secretary of the Company at the principal office of the Company prior to the Annual Meeting a written notice of revocation or a later-dated, properly executed proxy. Solicitation of proxies may be made by directors, officers and other employees of the Company by personal interview, telephone, facsimile transmittal or electronic communications. No additional compensation will be paid for any such services. This solicitation of proxies is being made by the Company, which will bear all costs associated with the mailing of this Proxy Statement and the solicitation of proxies.
RECORD DATE
Stockholders of record at the close of business on *, 2024, will be entitled to receive notice of, attend virtually and vote at the Annual Meeting.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE ANNUAL MEETING AND VOTING
Why am I receiving these materials?
Nukkleus Inc. has furnished these materials to you in connection with the Company’s solicitation of proxies for use at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on *, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern virtually via webcast. These materials describe the proposals on which the Company would like you to vote and also give you information on these proposals so that you can make an informed decision. We are furnishing our proxy materials on or about *, 2024 to all stockholders of record entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting.
How can I attend the Annual Meeting?
The Annual Meeting will be a completely virtual meeting of stockholders, which will be conducted exclusively by webcast. You are entitled to participate in the Annual Meeting only if you were a stockholder of the Company as of the close of business on the Record Date, or if you hold a valid proxy for the Annual Meeting. No physical meeting will be held.
You will be able to attend the Annual Meeting online and submit your questions during the meeting by visiting https://*. You also will be able to vote your shares online by going to www.*.
To participate in the Annual Meeting, you will need to review the information included on your Notice, on your proxy card or on the instructions that accompanied your proxy materials.
If you hold your shares through an intermediary, such as a bank or broker, you must register in advance using the instructions below.
The online meeting will begin promptly at 10.00 a.m., Eastern Time. We encourage you to access the meeting prior to the start time leaving ample time for the check in. Please follow the registration instructions as outlined in this proxy statement.
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How do I register to attend the Annual Meeting virtually on the Internet?
Prior to the commencement of the meeting please go to https://*. There you will be asked to register with your name, e-mail address and company details – or if none insert “Individual”.
We encourage stockholders to vote prior to the meeting but if you wish to vote on the day of the meeting you will be able to vote your shares online by going to www.* and please follow the instructions in “How to Vote” below and on your Proxy Card.
Why are you holding a virtual meeting instead of a physical meeting?
In order to provide safe and expanded access for all stockholders, improved communication, reduced environmental impact and cost savings we are very pleased that for this year’s Annual Meeting will again be hosting a completely virtual meeting of stockholders, which will be conducted solely online via live webcast. You will be able to attend and participate in the Annual Meeting online and submit your questions prior to and during the meeting by visiting: https://* at the meeting date and time described in the accompanying proxy statement. You will be able to vote your shares electronically by going to www.*. There is no physical location for the Annual Meeting. If you plan to attend the meeting virtually on the Internet, please follow the registration instructions as outlined in this proxy statement.
What is included in these materials?
These materials include:
| ● | this Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting; and |
| ● | the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2023. |
What is the proxy card?
The proxy card enables you to appoint Menachem Shalom, our Chief Executive Officer, as your representative at the Annual Meeting. By completing and returning a proxy card, or by voting electronically or by telephone you are authorizing these individuals to vote your shares at the Annual Meeting in accordance with your instructions on the proxy card (or submitted electronically or by telephone). This way, your shares will be voted whether or not you attend the Annual Meeting.
What is the purpose of the Annual Meeting?
At our Annual Meeting, stockholders will act upon the matters outlined in the Notice of Annual Meeting on the cover page of this Proxy Statement, including:
| (i) | the election of seven persons named herein as nominees for directors of the Company, to hold office subject to the provisions of the bylaws of the Company, until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until their successors are duly elected and qualified; |
| (ii) | ratification of the appointment of GreenGrowth CPAs as the Company’s independent auditors for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024; | |
| (iii) | approval of the Reverse Split Proposal. The board of directors may alternatively elect to abandon such proposed amendment and not effect the reverse stock split authorized by stockholders, in its sole discretion (The form of the proposed amendment to our charter to effect the reverse stock split is attached as Exhibit A to this proxy statement); |
| (iv) | approval and ratification of the 2024 Equity Incentive Plan and the authorization of 10,000,000 shares of common stock for issuance thereunder authorization of 10,000,000 shares of common stock for issuance under the 2024 Equity Incentive Plan; and |
| (v) | approval of an amendment to our amended and restated certificate of incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock from 40,000,000 to 150,000,000. |
In addition, management will respond to questions from stockholders.
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What constitutes a quorum?
The presence at the meeting, in person or by proxy, of the holders of one-half of the number of shares of common stock issued and outstanding on the record date will constitute a quorum permitting the meeting to conduct its business. As of the record date, there were * shares of Nukkleus common stock issued and outstanding. Thus, the presence of the holders of common stock representing at least * votes will be required to establish a quorum.
What is the difference between a stockholder of record and a beneficial owner of shares held in street name?
Our stockholders may hold their shares in an account at a brokerage firm, bank or other nominee holder, rather than holding share certificates in their own name. As summarized below, there are some distinctions between shares held of record and those owned beneficially in street name.
How can I get electronic access to the proxy materials?
In addition to the copies of this proxy that you may receive, the Notice of Internet Availability provides you with instructions regarding how to:
| ● | view the Company’s proxy materials for the Annual Meeting on the Internet at https://www.*; |
| ● | request hard copies of the materials; and |
| ● | instruct the Company to send future proxy materials to you electronically by email. |
Choosing to receive future proxy materials by email will save the Company the cost of printing and mailing documents to you and will reduce the impact of the Company’s annual meetings on the environment. If you choose to receive future proxy materials by email, you will receive an email message next year with instructions containing a link to those materials and a link to the proxy voting website. Your election to receive proxy materials by email will remain in effect until you terminate it.
Stockholder of Record
If on *, 2024, your shares were registered directly in your name with our transfer agent, Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company , you are considered a stockholder of record with respect to those shares, and the Notice of Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement was sent directly to you by the Company. As the stockholder of record, you have the right to direct the voting of your shares via the Internet or by returning the proxy card to us. Whether or not you plan to attend the Annual Meeting, if you do not vote over the Internet, please complete, date, sign and return a proxy card to ensure that your vote is counted.
Beneficial Owner of Shares Held in Street Name
If on *, 2024, your shares were held in an account at a brokerage firm, bank, broker-dealer, or other nominee holder, then you are considered the beneficial owner of shares held in “street name,” and the Notice of Annual Meeting & Proxy statement was forwarded to you by that organization. The organization holding your account is considered the stockholder of record for purposes of voting at the Annual Meeting. As the beneficial owner, you have the right to instruct that organization on how to vote the shares held in your account. However, since you are not the stockholder of record, you may not vote these shares in person at the Annual Meeting unless you receive a valid proxy from the organization.
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How do I vote?
Stockholders of Record. If you are a stockholder of record, you may vote by any of the following methods:
| ● | Via the Internet. You may vote by proxy via the Internet by following the instructions provided on the enclosed Proxy Card. |
| ● | By Telephone. You may vote by calling the toll free number found on the Proxy Card. |
| ● | By Mail. You may vote by completing, signing, dating and returning your Proxy Card in the pre-addressed, postage-paid envelope provided. |
| ● | In Person Virtually. You may attend and vote at the Annual Meeting virtually. When you log on to the Webcast there will be instructions about how to vote. |
Beneficial Owners of Shares Held in Street Name. If you are a beneficial owner of shares held in street name, you may vote by any of the following methods:
| ● | Via the Internet. You may vote by proxy via the Internet by following the instructions provided on the enclosed Proxy Card. |
| ● | By Telephone. You may vote by proxy by calling the toll-free number found on the vote instruction form. |
| ● | By Mail. You may vote by proxy by filling out the vote instruction form and returning it in the pre-addressed, postage-paid envelope provided. |
| ● | In Person Virtually. If you are a beneficial owner of shares held in street name and you wish to vote in person at the Annual Meeting, you must obtain a legal proxy from the organization that holds your shares. When you log on to the Webcast there will be instructions about how to vote. |
What are abstentions and broker non-votes?
While the inspector of elections will treat shares represented by proxies that reflect abstentions or include “broker non-votes” as shares that are present and entitled to vote for purposes of determining the presence of a quorum, abstentions or “broker non-votes” do not constitute a vote “for” or “against” any matter and thus will be disregarded in any calculation of “votes cast.” However, abstentions and “broker non-votes” will have the effect of a negative vote if an item requires the approval of a majority of a quorum or of a specified proportion of all issued and outstanding shares.
Brokers holding shares of record for customers generally are not entitled to vote on “non-routine” matters, unless they receive voting instructions from their customers (see What happens if I do not give specific voting instructions). As used herein, “uninstructed shares” means shares held by a broker who has not received voting instructions from its customers on a proposal. A “broker non-vote” occurs when a nominee holding uninstructed shares for a beneficial owner does not vote on a particular proposal because the nominee does not have discretionary voting power with respect to that non-routine matter.
What happens if I do not give specific voting instructions?
Stockholders of Record. If you are a stockholder of record and you:
| ● | indicate when voting on the Internet or by telephone that you wish to vote as recommended by the Board of Directors, or |
| ● | sign and return a proxy card without giving specific voting instructions, |
then the proxy holders will vote your shares in the manner recommended by the Board of Directors on all matters presented in this Proxy Statement and as the proxy holders may determine in their discretion with respect to any other matters properly presented for a vote at the Annual Meeting.
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Beneficial Owners of Shares Held in Street Name. If you are a beneficial owner of shares held in street name and do not provide the organization that holds your shares with specific voting instructions, under the rules of various national and regional securities exchanges, the organization that holds your shares may generally vote on routine matters, but not on non-routine matters. Under New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) rules, if your shares are held by a member organization, as that term is defined under NYSE rules, responsibility for making a final determination as to whether a specific proposal constitutes a routine or non-routine matter rests with that organization, or third parties acting on its behalf.
What are the Board’s recommendations?
The Board’s recommendation is set forth together with the description of each item in this Proxy Statement. In summary, the Board recommends a vote:
| ● | for election of the seven director nominees named in the Proxy Statement to hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until their successors are duly elected and qualified; |
| ● | for ratification of the appointment of GreenGrowth CPAs as the Company’s independent auditors for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024; |
| ● | for the Reverse Split Proposal; |
| ● | for the approval and ratification of the 2024 Equity Incentive Plan and the authorization of 10,000,000 shares of common stock for issuance thereunder; and |
| ● | for the approval of an amendment to our amended and restated certificate of incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock from 40,000,000 to 150,000,000. |
With respect to any other matter that properly comes before the Annual Meeting, the proxy holders will vote as recommended by the Board of Directors or, if no recommendation is given, in their own discretion.
How are proxy materials delivered to households?
Only one copy of the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2023 and this Proxy Statement will be delivered to an address where two or more stockholders reside with the same last name or who otherwise reasonably appear to be members of the same family based on the stockholders’ prior express or implied consent.
We will deliver promptly upon written or oral request a separate copy of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2023 or this Proxy Statement, as applicable. If you share an address with at least one other stockholder, currently receive one copy of our Annual Report on Form 10-K and Proxy Statement at your residence, and would like to receive a separate copy of our Annual Report on Form 10-K and Proxy Statement for future stockholder meetings of the Company, please specify such request in writing and send such written request to Nukkleus Inc.,525 Washington Blvd., Jersey City, New Jersey 07310; Attention: Corporate Secretary.
Interest of Officers and Directors in matters to be acted upon
None of our officers or directors has any interest in any of the matters to be acted upon at the Annual Meeting.
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How much stock is owned by 5% stockholders, directors, and executive officers?
The following table sets forth the number of shares known to be beneficially owned by all persons who own at least 5% of Nukkleus’ outstanding common stock, the Company’s directors, the Company’s executive officers, and the directors and executive officers as a group as of September 16, 2024, unless otherwise noted. Unless otherwise indicated, the stockholders listed in the table have sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares indicated.
| Number of | ||||||||||
| Shares of Common | Percentage of Common | |||||||||
| Name | Position | Stock | Stock (1) | |||||||
| Officers and Directors | ||||||||||
| Menachem Shalom | CEO and Director | - | - | |||||||
| David Rokach | Director | - | - | |||||||
| Nicholas Gregory | Director | 43,874 | * | |||||||
| Brian Schwieger | Director | - | - | |||||||
| Daniel Marcus | Director | - | - | |||||||
| Reuven Yeganeh | Director | - | - | |||||||
| Anastasiia Kotaieva (2) | Director | 2,950,000 | 14.9 | % | ||||||
| Total Officers and Directors (7 people) | 2,993,874 | 14.9 | % | |||||||
| 5% Stockholders | ||||||||||
| Nisun Investment Holding Limited | 1,661,264 | 9.9 | % | |||||||
| X Group Family of Funds Limited Partnership (2) | 2,950,000 | 14.9 | % | |||||||
| Emil Assentato | 3,892,792 | 32.0 | % | |||||||
| East Asia Technology Investments Limited (3) | 3,048,000 | 15.4 | % | |||||||
| Jamal Khurshid | 1,079,227 | 6.4 | % | |||||||
| (1) | Applicable percentage ownership is based on 16,791,964 shares of common stock outstanding as of September 16, 2024. Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission and generally includes voting or investment power with respect to securities. Shares of common stock that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of are deemed to be beneficially owned by the person holding such securities for computing the percentage of ownership of such person, but are not treated as outstanding for computing the percentage ownership of any other person. |
| (2) | Represents shares of common stock issuable to X Group Family of Funds Limited Partnership upon conversion of a Senior Unsecured Promissory Notes in the principal amount of $437,500 and exercise of a Stock Purchase Warrant to acquire 1,200,000 shares of common stock. Anastasiia Kotaieva, a director of the Company, is the owner of X Group Family of Funds Limited Partnership. |
| (3) | Represents shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of a Senior Unsecured Promissory Notes in the principal amount of $515,000 and exercise of a Stock Purchase Warrant to acquire 1,400,000 shares of common stock. |
| * | Less than 1%. |
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INFORMATION ABOUT THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
| Name | Age | Position | ||
| Menachem Shalom | 49 | Chief Executive Officer and Director | ||
| David Rokach | 55 | Director | ||
| Nicholas Gregory | 49 | Director | ||
| Brian Schwieger | 56 | Director | ||
| Daniel Marcus | 50 | Director | ||
| Reuven Yeganeh | 48 | Director | ||
| Anastasiia Kotaieva | 33 | Director |
Set forth below is a brief description of the background and business experience of our current executive officers or directors.
Menachem Shalom has been our Chief Executive Officer and member of our Board of Directors since September 2024. Mr. Shalom has served as a director and the Chief Executive Officer of Motomova Inc (OTC Markets: MTMV) since December 1, 2022 and its Secretary since May 24, 2023. Mr. Shalom was the Co-Chief Executive Officer, and a member of the board of directors of MEA since January 2022. Since 2017, Mr. Shalom has also served as CEO of Hold Me Ltd., a digital platform for mobile wallet and payments founded by Mr. Shalom. Mr. Shalom is the principal executive and financial officer and sole director of Hold Me Ltd., a company registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Prior to his tenure with the Company, Mr. Shalom founded and served as CEO of Wayerz Solutions, Ltd., a digital platform for correspondent banking and wires’ routing optimization, between 2014 and 2017 and as Vice President of Business Development, Sales and Marketing at Dsnr Media Group Ltd., an international cross-platform digital advertising company. Mr. Shalom also founded and served as CEO of Mipso Ltd., a software-as-a-service provider in the fashion and retail industry, between 2010 and 2013; ooga studio Ltd., an industrial design incubator, between 2007 and 2010; and Medifreeze Ltd., a startup in the area of stem cell cryopreservation, between 2004 and 2009. Mr. Shalom received his MBA at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in 2003 after receiving an LLM in corporate law at Columbia University School of Law in 2000.
David Rokach has been a member of our Board of Directors since September 2024. Mr. Rokach is the founder and has served as the CEO of Tokara Management Ltd. since 2014, which provides investment management services to hedge funds. Mr. Rokach also serves as a Senior Investment Manager of X Group Fund of Funds since January 2020. X Group Fund of Funds has provided a loan to the Company and also holds a warrant. Mr. Rokach has also held certain roles with Clal Finance. Mr. Rokach graduated from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem with a Bachelor of Arts International Relations in 1993 and from the Tel Aviv University with a diploma in Financial Investment Management in 1993. Mr. Rokach attended New York University in 1994 studying investment management.
Nicholas Gregory is a digital currencies entrepreneur, software engineer and has been involved with Bitcoin since 2012. Providing start-up support, Nicholas co-authored BIP175 of the bitcoin specification and has been instrumental in designing bitcoin protocols such as MainStay and Lawyer 2 Solutions. He has had leadership positions, building talented teams, in multiple Wall Street Investment banks. Nicholas developed many systems and programs for a variety of companies and industries throughout his career, including Verizon, Capgemini, Merrill Lynch and JP Morgan. He delivered the first Swiss-regulated gold-back token for DGLD and has provided enterprise bitcoin integration on cloud storage systems such as Google Drive and Dropbox. Nicholas is CEO of CommerceBlock and has been quoted in many major publications regarding digital currencies and advisory work for government trade bodies.
Brian Schwieger holds a number of non-executive director and consulting roles after 30 years in commodity and financial markets, including to Redburn Europe Ltd and as senior advisor to McKinsey & Company. In his eight years at London Stock Exchange Group, Brian was responsible for the Equity markets in London and Milan as well as co-head of ETF and Fixed Income markets in London. He was also a non-executive director of MTS, a leading European fixed income trading platform. Brian was previously a Managing Director at Bank of America Merrill Lynch where he helped to build and market their European electronic trading platform. Earlier he held positions at Morgan Stanley (UK Market Maker, European Portfolio Trader, Electronic Trading Business Development) and as a trader of propane and butane cargoes for BP and Continental Grain. Pre-university education was in the US, Germany, Australia and UK. Brian has a BSc (Econ) from the London School of Economics and a Master’s degree in Finance from London Business School.
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Daniel Marcus is CEO of MarcX Limited, an advisory company specialising in financial market infrastructure and associated products and services. Dan advises on business strategy, corporate structure, regulatory policy and legal issues. Previously Dan was Co-Head of Tradition UK Managed Business, CEO, ParFX and Trad-X and Global Head of Strategy and Business Development, Tradition. Dan was responsible for the development and implementation of strategic initiatives on a global basis, including planning for global regulatory change. He is a qualified lawyer and joined Tradition in 2007 as General Counsel and has a wealth of experience in both business and legal roles within the financial markets, including with the London Stock Exchange. Dan was Tradition’s primary external representative and still sits on multiple advisory boards and committees. He was instrumental in the creation of the ICE Swap Rate and the successor for LIBOR — Term SONIA in partnership with the industry. Dan has written Tradition’s submissions to industry wide consultations as well various publication and books and has appeared as a subject matter expert on television multiple times.
Reuven Yeganeh has been a director since June 13, 2024. He is an experienced business manager with specific experience in managing funds and a demonstrated history of working in the financial services industry. Since 2021, Mr. Yeganeh has served as a derivatives trader for Inbar Group Finance Ltd. From 2018 to 2021, Mr. Yeganeh was the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Fantazy Network (market: TASE: WILK), which specialized in cannabis investments, and from April 2012 to 2018 was the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Direct Capital (TASE: DCI-M), which was engaged in real estate investments. Prior to 2012, Mr. Yeganeh worked for various investment companies providing managing investment strategy. Further, from 1998 through 2001, Mr. Yeganeh served as a Non-Commissioned Officer it the Israeli Air Force. Mr. Yeganeh received a BA degree in Economics and Administration specializing in finance from Ruppin College, Israel in 2004 and a license to manage investment portfolios from the Israeli Securities Authority in 2006.
Anastasiia Kotaieva has been a director since June 13, 2024. She is an established business manager and entrepreneur. Ms. Kotaieva, since January 2022 to present, has owned and operated Ali Finance, which provides services to clients in the real estate industry as well as the stock market. From February 2019 through November 2021, Ms. Kotaieva served as an analyst for Menora, an insurance company, providing diligence and analyst services. Ms. Kotaieva served as an Account Manager for BSV, a private water well drilling company from January 2015 to October 2018. Ms. Kotaieva received a Bachelors and Masters Degree in Economics from Krok University in Kyiv, Ukraine.
Board & Committees
Board meetings during calendar year ended 2023
The committees were not formed until after the year ended September 30, 2023. Each director then in office attended all of the meetings of the Board and all of the meetings held by all committees on which such director served, apart from one meeting which one director was not able to attend. The Board also approved certain actions by unanimous written consent.
Committees established by the Board
The Board of Directors has standing Audit, Compensation, and Governance Committees. Information concerning the function of each Board committee follows.
Audit Committee
The Company’s Audit Committee consists of Brian Schwieger, Nicholas Gregory and Daniel Marcus, each of whom are independent directors and are “financially literate” as defined under the Nasdaq listing standards. Brian Schwieger serves as chairman of the Audit Committee. Nukkleus’s board of directors has determined that Brian Schwieger qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert,” as defined under rules and regulations of the SEC.
The Audit Committee is responsible for overseeing management’s implementation of effective internal accounting and financial controls, supervising matters relating to audit functions, reviewing and setting internal policies and procedures regarding audits, accounting and other financial controls, reviewing the results of our audit performed by the independent public accountants, and evaluating and selecting the independent public accountants. The Audit Committee had adopted an Audit Committee Charter which will be posted on our website at t http://www.nukk.com.
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Compensation Committee
The Compensation Committee consists of Brian Schwieger and Daniel Marcus, each of whom is an independent director. Brian Schwieger serves as chairman of the Compensation Committee. The functions of the Compensation Committee will be set forth in a Compensation Committee Charter.
The Compensation Committee determines matters pertaining to the compensation of our named executive officers and administers our stock option and incentive compensation plans, or Equity Incentive Plans. The Compensation Committee has adopted a Compensation Committee Charter will be posted on our website at http://www.nukk.com. During 2023, the Compensation Committee did not meet as it was formed after the year ended September 30, 2023.
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee consists of Brian Schwieger, Nicholas Gregory and Daniel Marcus, each of whom is an independent director under Nasdaq’s listing standards. Brian Schwieger serves as the chair of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is responsible for overseeing the selection of persons to be nominated to serve on the Board. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers persons identified by its members, management, shareholders, investment bankers and others.
The Governance Committee is responsible for considering potential Board members, nominating Directors for election to the Board, implementing the Company’s corporate governance policies, recommending compensation for the Board and for all other purposes outlined in the Governance Committee Charter, which will be posted on our website at https://www.nukk.com. During 2023, the Governance Committee did not meet as it was formed after the year ended September 30, 2023.
Nomination of Directors
As provided in its charter, the Governance Committee is responsible for identifying individuals qualified to become directors. The Governance Committee seeks to identify director candidates based on input provided by a number of sources including (1) the Governance Committee members, (2) our other directors, (3) our stockholders, (4) our Chief Executive Officer or Chair of the Board, and (5) third parties such as service providers. In evaluating potential candidates for director, the Governance Committee considers the entirety of each candidate’s credentials.
Qualifications for consideration as a director nominee may vary according to the particular areas of expertise being sought as a complement to the existing composition of the Board of Directors. However, at a minimum, candidates for director must possess:
| ● | high personal and professional ethics and integrity; |
| ● | the ability to exercise sound judgment; |
| ● | the ability to make independent analytical inquiries; |
| ● | a willingness and ability to devote adequate time and resources to diligently perform Board and committee duties; and |
| ● | the appropriate and relevant business experience and acumen. |
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Board Diversity
The Board believes that a diverse membership having a variety of skills, styles, experience and competencies is an important feature of a well-functioning board. Accordingly, the Board believes that diversity of viewpoints, backgrounds and experience (inclusive of gender, age, race and ethnicity) should be a consideration in Board succession planning and recruiting. In recent years, the Governance Committee has taken this priority to heart in its nominations process, and the diversity of the Board has grown significantly. One of the seven current members of the Board is female and none identify as an underrepresented minority satisfying The Nasdaq Stock Market, LLC Listing Rules’ (the “NASDAQ Listing Rules”) objective for listed companies to have at least two diverse directors, including one who self-identifies as female and one who self-identifies as either an underrepresented minority or LGBTQ+. The chart below provides certain information regarding the diversity of the Board as of September 16, 2024.
| Board Diversity Matrix as of September 16, 2024 | ||||||||||||
| Total Number of Directors | 7 | |||||||||||
| Female | Male | Non-Binary | ||||||||||
| Part I: Gender Identity | ||||||||||||
| Directors | 1 | 6 | - | |||||||||
| Part II: Demographic Background | ||||||||||||
| African American or Black | - | - | - | |||||||||
| Alaskan Native or Native American | - | - | - | |||||||||
| Asian | - | - | - | |||||||||
| Hispanic or Latinx | - | - | - | |||||||||
| Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander | - | - | - | |||||||||
| White | 1 | 6 | - | |||||||||
| Two or More Races or Ethnicities | - | - | - | |||||||||
| LGBTQ+ | - | - | - | |||||||||
Family Relationships
There are no family relationships among our directors and executive officers. There is no arrangement or understanding between or among our executive officers and directors pursuant to which any director or officer was or is to be selected as a director or officer.
Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings
To our knowledge, during the last ten years, none of our directors and executive officers has:
| ● | Had a bankruptcy petition filed by or against any business of which such person was a general partner or executive officer either at the time of the bankruptcy or within two years prior to that time. |
| ● | Been convicted in a criminal proceeding or been subject to a pending criminal proceeding, excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses. |
| ● | Been subject to any order, judgment or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction, permanently or temporarily enjoining, barring, suspending or otherwise limiting his involvement in any type of business, securities or banking activities. |
| ● | Been found by a court of competent jurisdiction (in a civil action), the SEC, or the Commodities 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 to, or a party to, any sanction or order, not subsequently reverse, suspended or vacated, of any self-regulatory organization, any registered entity, or any equivalent exchange, association, entity or organization that has disciplinary authority over its members or persons associated with a member. |
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To our knowledge, none of our directors and executive officers has at any time been subject to any proceedings:
| ● | that were initiated by any regulatory, civil or criminal agency | |
| ● | in which claims alleging fraud were asserted and seeking damages in excess of $100,000 |
Code of Ethics
We have adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics Policy (the “Code of Ethics”) that applies to all directors and officers, which will be posted on our website at https://www.nukk.com. The Code of Ethics describes the legal, ethical and regulatory standards that must be followed by the directors and officers of the Company and sets forth high standards of business conduct applicable to each director and officer. As adopted, the Code of Ethics sets forth written standards that are designed to deter wrongdoing and to promote, among other things:
| ● | honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships; |
| ● | compliance with applicable governmental laws, rules and regulations; |
| ● | the prompt internal reporting of violations of the Code of Ethics to the appropriate person or persons identified in the code; and |
| ● | accountability for adherence to the Code of Ethics. |
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, requires our directors and executive officers and persons who own more than 10% of the issued and outstanding shares of our common stock to file reports of initial ownership of common stock and other equity securities and subsequent changes in that ownership with the SEC. Officers, directors and greater than ten percent stockholders are required by SEC regulation to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file. To our knowledge, based solely on a review of the copies of such reports furnished to us and written representations that no other reports were required, during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2023 all Section 16(a) filing requirements applicable to our officers, directors and greater than 10% beneficial owners were complied with, except that one filing was inadvertently made late by Mr. Broenniman and Mr. Gorriz.
Compensation of Directors
The following table sets forth the compensation of non-management Directors earned during the year ended September 30, 2023.
| Name | Fees Earned or Paid in Cash $ | Stock Awards $ | Option Awards $ | Non-equity Incentive Plan Compensation $ | Change in Pension Value and Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Earnings $ | All Other Compensation $ | Total $ | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Emil Assentato (3) | 20,000 | - | - | - | - | - | 20,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Craig Marshak (1) | 20,000 | - | - | - | - | - | 20,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Jamal “Jamie” Khurshid (2) | 257,171 | - | 276,258 | - | - | - | 533,429 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Nicholas Gregory | 20,000 | - | - | - | - | - | 20,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Brian Schwieger | 20,000 | - | - | - | - | - | 20,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Daniel Marcus | 20,000 | - | - | - | - | - | 20,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| (1) | Mr. Marshak resigned as a director on October 27, 2023. |
| (2) | Mr. Khurshid’s 2023 compensation consisted of cash of $257,171 and options valued at $276,258. Mr. Khurshid resigned in September 2024. |
| (3) | Mr. Assentato resigned on July 24, 2024. |
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Agreement with Craig Marshak
On August 1, 2016, Mr. Craig Marshak entered into a letter agreement with us pursuant to which he was appointed as our director in consideration of an annual fee of $20,000. On October 27, 2023, Mr. Marshak resigned as a director of the Company.
Agreement with Emil Assentato
On August 1, 2016, Mr. Emil Assentato entered into a letter agreement with us pursuant to which he was appointed as our director in consideration of an annual fee of $20,000. Mr. Assentato resigned on July 24, 2024.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following table sets forth information concerning all cash and non-cash compensation awarded to, earned by or paid to our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operation Officer during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2023 and 2022. No other executive officer received compensation in excess of $100,000 during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2023 and 2022.
Summary Compensation Table
| Name and principal position | Fiscal year | Salary | Bonus | Stock awards | Option awards | Nonequity incentive plan compensation | Nonqualified deferred compensation earnings | All other compensation | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (a) | (b) | (c) | (d) | (e) | (f) | (g) | (h) | (i) | (j) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Emil Assentato | 2023 | 20,000 | - | - | - | - | - | - | 20,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Former CEO | 2022 | 20,000 | - | - | - | - | - | - | 20,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Jamal “Jamie” Khurshid | 2023 | 257,171 | - | - | 276,258 | - | - | - | 533,429 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Former CEO and COO | 2022 | 246,868 | - | - | 207,193 | - | - | - | 454,061 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Employment Agreements
On September 23, 2021, the Company entered into a Consultancy Agreement with Jamal “Jamie” Khurshid, the Company’s former executive officer. Pursuant to the agreement, Mr. Khurshid was employed as Chief Operating Officer of the Company unless terminated pursuant to the terms of the agreement. During the term of the agreement, Mr. Khurshid was entitled to two hundred and fifteen thousand Euro (€215,000) annually. Mr. Khurshid resigned in September 2024. In 2022, the Company entered into an amendment with Jamal “Jamie” Khurshid, pursuant to which the Company agreed to grant Jamal “Jamie” Khurshid stock options to acquire 85,714 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $3.15 per share.
Option Exercises and Stock Vested
There were no options exercised by our executive officers or stock vested to our executive officers during the year ended September 30, 2023.
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Outstanding Equity Awards
The following table sets forth information with respect to the outstanding equity awards of our principal executive officers and principal financial officer during the year ended September 30, 2023, and each person who served as an executive officer of the Company as of September 30, 2023:
| Outstanding Equity Awards | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Option Awards | Stock Awards | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Name and principal position | Number of securities underlying unexercised options Exercisable (#) | Number of securities underlying unexercised options Unexercisable (#) | Equity incentive plan awards: Number of securities underlying unexercised options (#) | Options exercise price ($) | Option expiration Date | Number of shares or units of stock that have not vested (#) | Market value of shares or units of stock that have not vested ($) | Equity incentive plan awards: Number of unearned shares, units or other rights that have not vested (#) | Equity incentive plan awards: Market or payout value of unearned shares, units or other rights that have not vested ($) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Emil Assentato, Former CEO | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Jamal “Jamie” Khurshid, Former CEO and COO | 57,143 | 28,571 | 85,714 | 3.15 | 1/1/2027 | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
No Pension Benefits
The Company does not maintain any plan that provides for payments or other benefits to its executive officers at, following or in connection with retirement and including, without limitation, any tax-qualified defined benefit plans or supplemental executive retirement plans.
No Nonqualified Deferred Compensation
The Company does not maintain any defined contribution or other plan that provides for the deferral of compensation on a basis that is not tax-qualified.
Director Compensation
| Name | Fees Earned or Paid in Cash $ | Stock Awards $ | Option Awards $ | Non-equity Incentive Plan Compensation $ | Change in Pension Value and Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Earnings | All Other Compensation $ | Total $ | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Emil Assentato (3) | 20,000 | - | - | - | - | - | 20,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Craig Marshak (1) | 20,000 | - | - | - | - | - | 20,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Jamal “Jamie” Khurshid (2) | 257,171 | - | 276,258 | - | - | - | 533,429 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Nicholas Gregory | 20,000 | - | - | - | - | - | 20,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Brian Schwieger | 20,000 | - | - | - | - | - | 20,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Daniel Marcus | 20,000 | - | - | - | - | - | 20,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| (1) | Mr. Marshak resigned as a director on October 27, 2023. |
| (2) | Mr. Khurshid’s 2023 compensation consisted of cash of $257,171 and options valued at $276,258. Mr. Khurshid resigned in September 2024. |
| (3) | Mr. Assentato resigned in July 2024. |
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Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence
The Company is listed on the Nasdaq Global Market and therefore the Company is complying with the Nasdaq Listing standards applicable to director independence. Pursuant to Rule 4200 of The Nasdaq Stock Market one of the definitions of an independent director is a person other than an executive officer or employee of a company. The Nasdaq rules require companies to maintain a Board a majority of the members of which are independent directors. Additionally, compensation committee members must not have a relationship with the Company that is material to the director’s ability to be independent from management in connection with the duties of a compensation committee member. Audit committee members must also satisfy the independence criteria set forth in Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act. In order to be considered independent for purposes of Rule 10A-3, a member of an audit committee of a listed company may not, other than in his or her capacity as a member of the audit committee, the board of directors, or any other board committee: accept, directly or indirectly, any consulting, advisory, or other compensatory fee from the listed company or any of its subsidiaries; or be an affiliated person of the listed company or any of its subsidiaries.
The Company’s board of directors has reviewed the materiality of any relationship that each of the directors has with the Company, either directly or indirectly. Based on this review the board has determined that there are four (4) independent directors, including all the members of the Audit, Compensation and Governance Committees.
Services provided by related parties
From time to time, Oliver Worsley, a shareholder of the Company, provides consulting services to the Company. As compensation for professional services provided, the Company recognized consulting expenses of $55,140 and $45,310 for the years ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which have been included in professional fees on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss. As of September 30, 2023 and 2022, the accrued and unpaid services charge related to Oliver Worsley amounted to $0 and $16,691, respectively, which have been included in accrued professional fees on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
From time to time, Craig Vallis, a shareholder of the Company, provides consulting services to the Company. As compensation for professional services provided, the Company recognized consulting expenses of $136,625 and $80,026 for the years ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which have been included in professional fees on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss.
The Company uses affiliate employees for various services such as the use of accountants to record the books and accounts of the Company at no charge to the Company, which are considered immaterial.
Office space from related parties
The Company uses office space of affiliate companies, free of rent, which is considered immaterial.
Revenue from related party and cost of revenue from related party
The Company’s general support services operate under a GSA with TCM providing personnel and technical support, marketing, accounting, risk monitoring, documentation processing and customer care and support. The minimum monthly amount received is $1,600,000. Due to non-payment by TCM under the GSA, the Company has advised TCM that the GSA has been terminated. The Company has historically generated substantially most of its revenue through the services rendered under the GSA. The Company is repositioning its focus on digital assets as the services generated under the GSA with TCM generated limited net income.
The Company’s general support services operate under a GSA with FXDIRECT receiving personnel and technical support, marketing, accounting, risk monitoring, documentation processing and customer care and support. The minimum monthly amount payable is $1,575,000. Effective May 1, 2023, the minimum amount payable by the Company to FXDIRECT for services was reduced from $1,575,000 per month to $1,550,000 per month.
Both of the above entities are affiliates through common ownership.
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During the years ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, general support services provided to the related party, which was recorded as revenue – general support services - related party on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss were as follows:
| Years Ended September 30, | ||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Service provided to: | ||||||||
| TCM | $ | 19,200,000 | $ | 19,200,000 | ||||
| $ | 19,200,000 | $ | 19,200,000 | |||||
During the years ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, services received from the related party, which was recorded as cost of revenue – general support services - related party on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss were as follows:
| Years Ended September 30, | ||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Service received from: | ||||||||
| FXDIRECT | $ | 18,775,000 | $ | 18,900,000 | ||||
| $ | 18,775,000 | $ | 18,900,000 | |||||
During the years ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, Digital RFQ earned revenue from related parties in the amount of $138,419 and $38,112, respectively, which was included in revenue – financial services on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss.
Due from affiliates
At September 30, 2023 and 2022, due from affiliates consisted of the following:
| September 30, 2023 | September 30, 2022 | |||||||
| Digiclear | $ | 229,837 | $ | 35,762 | ||||
| Jacobi | 95,274 | - | ||||||
| FXDD Mauritius (1) | 1,500 | - | ||||||
| TCM | 1,942,500 | 895,374 | ||||||
| Total | $ | 2,269,111 | $ | 931,136 | ||||
| (1) | FXDD Mauritius is controlled by Emil Assentato, the Company’s chief executive officer and chairman. |
At September 30, 2023, the balance of due from Digiclear with the amount of $229,837, which represented advances made to Digiclear and monies that the Company paid on behalf of Digiclear, was written off after exhaustive efforts at collection.
The balances due from Jacobi and FXDD Mauritius represent monies that the Company paid on behalf of Jacobi and FXDD Mauritius. The balance due from TCM represents unsettled funds due related to the General Services Agreement and monies that the Company paid on behalf of TCM.
Management believes that the affiliates’ receivables are fully collectable. Therefore, no allowance for doubtful account is deemed to be required on its due from affiliates at September 30, 2023 and 2022.
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Due to affiliates
At September 30, 2023 and 2022, due to affiliates consisted of the following:
| September 30, 2023 | September 30, 2022 | |||||||
| Forexware LLC (1) | $ | 1,211,778 | $ | 1,079,229 | ||||
| FXDIRECT (3) | 5,064,428 | 3,042,101 | ||||||
| Currency Mountain Holdings Bermuda, Limited (“CMH”) | 42,000 | 42,000 | ||||||
| FXDD Trading (1) | 396,793 | 242,113 | ||||||
| Markets Direct Payments (1) | 2,317 | 2,114 | ||||||
| Match Fintech Limited (2) | 91,433 | 106,506 | ||||||
| Total | $ | 6,808,749 | $ | 4,514,063 | ||||
| (1) | Forexware LLC, FXDD Trading, and Markets Direct Payments are controlled by Emil Assentato, the Company’s chief executive officer and chairman. |
| (2) | Match Fintech Limited is controlled by affiliates of the Company. |
| (3) | The amount of $2,727,061 due to FXDIRECT was converted into 757,678 shares of common stock of the Company in December 2023 (See Note 17 – Common shares issued for debt conversion). |
The balances due to affiliates represent expenses paid by Forexware LLC, FXDIRECT, FXDD Trading, Markets Direct Payments, and Match Fintech Limited on behalf of the Company and advances from CMH. The balance due to FXDIRECT may also include unsettled funds due related to the General Service Agreement.
Amounts due to affiliates are short-term in nature, non-interest bearing, unsecured and repayable on demand.
Customer digital currency assets and liabilities – related parties
At September 30, 2023 and 2022, related parties’ digital currency, which was controlled by Digital RFQ, amounted to $0 and $248,214, respectively, which was included in customer digital currency assets and liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Note receivable – related parties
Promissory note
The Company originated a note receivable to a shareholder in the principal amount of $35,000 on September 1, 2022. The note matured with respect to $17,500 on March 1, 2023 and with respect to $17,500 on September 1, 2023. The note bears a fixed interest rate of 5.0% per annum. Currently, this loan is in default.
For the years ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, the interest income related to this note amounted to $1,836 and $159, respectively, and has been included in other (expense) income: other income (expense) on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss.
As of September 30, 2023 and 2022, the outstanding interest balance related to this note was $1,980 and $159, respectively, and was included in other current assets on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
During the year ended September 30, 2023, the Company made loans with an aggregate principal of $299,650 to Brilliant. The principal was payable promptly after the date on which Brilliant consummated an initial business combination with a target business. These loans bear a fixed interest rate of 0% per annum. These loans shall not be convertible into any securities of Brilliant, and the Company shall have no recourse with respect to Brilliant’s ability to convert these loans into any securities of Brilliant (See Note 16 – Merger). At September 30, 2023, the amount of $299,650 was written off after exhaustive efforts at collection.
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Line of credit
On July 31, 2023, the Company entered into a Credit Deed (the “Credit Deed”) providing a $1 million line of credit (the “Line of Credit”) to a related party company which is a client of Digital RFQ. The Line of Credit allows the related party company to request loans thereunder until amount reaches $1 million. Loan drawn under the Line of Credit bears interest at an annual rate of 8% and will be receivable in installments commencing on December 31, 2023. The Line of Credit was collateralized by 133,514 shares of common stock of the Company.
In the year ended September 30, 2023, activity recorded for the Line of Credit is summarized in the following table:
| Outstanding principal under the Line of Credit at September 30, 2022 | $ | - | ||
| Draw down from Line of Credit | 764,892 | |||
| Outstanding principal under the Line of Credit at September 30, 2023 | $ | 764,892 | ||
| Less: allowance for doubtful account | (637,072 | ) | ||
| Outstanding principal under the Line of Credit at September 30, 2023, net | $ | 127,820 |
For the year ended September 30, 2023, the interest income related to the Line of Credit amounted to $10,246 and has been included in other income (expense) on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss.
As of September 30, 2023, the related accrued and unpaid interest for Line of Credit was $10,199 and the Company has established, based on a review of its outstanding interest receivable, an allowance for doubtful account in the amounts of $10,199 for the receivable.
On December 27, 2023, the Company and the related party company entered into a Stock Transfer Agreement pursuant to which the collateral, 133,514 shares of common stock of the Company, will be transferred to the Company. Although both parties signed the Stock Transfer Agreement, the Company’s management determine the likelihood of transferring the 133,514 shares to the Company is remote.
The Company reviews the Line of Credit and corresponding accrued and unpaid interest on a periodic basis and makes general and specific allowances when there is doubt as to the collectability of individual balances. After evaluating the collectability of individual receivable balances, the Company increased the allowance for doubtful accounts in the amount of $650,285 for the year ended September 30, 2023.
Loan payable – related parties and interest payable – related parties
On July 19, 2023, Digital RFQ issued a promissory note (the “July 2023 Loan”) in the principal amount of $75,619 to Jamal Khurshid, the Company’s chief operating officer and director, in consideration of cash proceeds in the amount of $75,619. The July 2023 Loan bears interest of 5.0% per annum and is due and payable on July 19, 2026.
On August 15, 2023, Digital RFQ issued a promissory note (the “August 2023 Loan”) in the principal amount of $75,000 to Emil Assentato, the Company’s chief executive officer and chairman, in consideration of cash proceeds in the amount of $75,000. The August 2023 Loan bears interest of 5.0% per annum and is due and payable on August 15, 2026.
On September 18, 2023, the Company issued a promissory note (the “September 2023 Loan”) in the principal amount of $270,000 to Emil Assentato, the Company’s chief executive officer and chairman, in consideration of cash proceeds in the amount of $270,000. The September 2023 Loan bears interest of 5.0% per annum and is due and payable on September 18, 2026. In December 2023, the September 2023 Loan principal of $270,000 was converted into 70,129 shares of common stock of the Company (See Note 17 – Common shares issued for debt conversion).
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As of September 30, 2023, the outstanding principal balance totaled $420,619.
For the year ended September 30, 2023, the interest expense related to above loans amounted to $1,776 and has been reflected as interest expense – related parties on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss.
As of September 30, 2023, the related accrued and unpaid interest for above loans was $1,771 and has been reflected as interest payable – related parties on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Letter agreement with ClearThink
Nukkleus was party to a letter agreement with ClearThink dated as of November 22, 2021, pursuant to which ClearThink was engaged by Nukkleus in connection with the Business Combination (See Note 16 - White lion stock purchase agreement).
Craig Marshak, a former member of the Board of Directors of the Company, was a managing director of ClearThink, a transaction advisory firm. ClearThink had been engaged by the Company to serve as the exclusive transactional financial advisor, and finder with respect to the Business Combination, to advise the Company with respect to the Business Combination. The letter agreement was terminated on October 27, 2023. The Company paid ClearThink $210,000 as of the date of closing of the Business Combination.
Customers
The following table sets forth information as to each customer that accounted for 10% or more of the Company’s revenues for the years ended September 30, 2023 and 2022.
| Years Ended September 30, | ||||||||
| Customer | 2023 | 2022 | ||||||
| A – related party | 90.2 | % | 89.2 | % | ||||
One related party customer, whose outstanding receivable accounted for 10% or more of the Company’s total outstanding accounts receivable and due from affiliates at September 30, 2023, accounted for 95.2% of the Company’s total outstanding accounts receivable and due from affiliates at September 30, 2023.
One related party customer, whose outstanding receivable accounted for 10% or more of the Company’s total outstanding due from affiliates at September 30, 2022, accounted for 96.2% of the Company’s total outstanding due from affiliates at September 30, 2022.
Suppliers
The following table sets forth information as to each supplier that accounted for 10% or more of the Company’s costs of revenues for the years ended September 30, 2023 and 2022.
| Years Ended September 30, | ||||||||
| Supplier | 2023 | 2022 | ||||||
| A – related party | 86.8 | % | 85.2 | % | ||||
Two related party suppliers, whose outstanding payables accounted for 10% or more of the Company’s total outstanding accounts payable and due to affiliates at September 30, 2023, accounted for 81.7% of the Company’s total outstanding accounts payable and due to affiliates at September 30, 2023.
Two related party suppliers, whose outstanding payables accounted for 10% or more of the Company’s total outstanding accounts payable and due to affiliates at September 30, 2022, accounted for 79.2% of the Company’s total outstanding accounts payable and due to affiliates at September 30, 2022.
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ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN AT THE MEETING
PROPOSAL NO. 1
PROPOSAL FOR ELECTION OF SEVEN DIRECTORS
At this year’s Annual Meeting, the Board of Directors proposes that the nominees listed below be elected to hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until their successors are duly elected and qualified. All of the nominees are currently serving as directors. All nominees have consented to being named in this Proxy Statement and to serve if elected.
Assuming a quorum is present, the seven nominees receiving the highest number of affirmative votes of shares entitled to be voted for such persons will be elected as directors of the Company to hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until their successors are duly elected and qualified. Unless marked otherwise, proxies received will be voted “FOR” the election of the nominees named below. In the event that additional persons are nominated for election as directors, the proxy holders intend to vote all proxies received by them in such a manner as will ensure the election of the nominees listed below, and, in such event, the specific nominees to be voted for will be determined by the proxy holders.
Information With Respect to Director Nominees
Listed below are the nominees for election to our Board with information showing the principal occupation or employment of the nominees for director, the principal business of the corporation or other organization in which such occupation or employment is carried on, and such nominees’ business experience during the past five years. Such information has been furnished to the Company by the director nominees.
| Name | Age | Position | ||
| Menachem Shalom | 49 | Chief Executive Officer and Director | ||
| David Rokach | 55 | Director | ||
| Nicholas Gregory | 49 | Director | ||
| Brian Schwieger | 56 | Director | ||
| Daniel Marcus | 50 | Director | ||
| Reuven Yeganeh | 48 | Director | ||
| Anastasiia Kotaieva | 33 | Director |
Set forth below is a brief description of the background and business experience of our current executive officers or directors.
Menachem Shalom has been our Chief Executive Officer and member of our Board of Directors since September 2024. Mr. Shalom has served as a director and the Chief Executive Officer of Motomova Inc (OTC Markets: MTMV) since December 1, 2022 and its Secretary since May 24, 2023. Mr. Shalom was the Co-Chief Executive Officer, and a member of the board of directors of MEA since January 2022. Since 2017, Mr. Shalom has also served as CEO of Hold Me Ltd., a digital platform for mobile wallet and payments founded by Mr. Shalom. Mr. Shalom is the principal executive and financial officer and sole director of Hold Me Ltd., a company registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Prior to his tenure with the Company, Mr. Shalom founded and served as CEO of Wayerz Solutions, Ltd., a digital platform for correspondent banking and wires’ routing optimization, between 2014 and 2017 and as Vice President of Business Development, Sales and Marketing at Dsnr Media Group Ltd., an international cross-platform digital advertising company. Mr. Shalom also founded and served as CEO of Mipso Ltd., a software-as-a-service provider in the fashion and retail industry, between 2010 and 2013; ooga studio Ltd., an industrial design incubator, between 2007 and 2010; and Medifreeze Ltd., a startup in the area of stem cell cryopreservation, between 2004 and 2009. Mr. Shalom received his MBA at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in 2003 after receiving an LLM in corporate law at Columbia University School of Law in 2000.
David Rokach has been a member of our Board of Directors since September 2024. Mr. Rokach is the founder and has served as the CEO of Tokara Management Ltd. since 2014, which provides investment management services to hedge funds. Mr. Rokach also serves as a Senior Investment Manager of X Group Fund of Funds since January 2020. X Group Fund of Funds has provided a loan to the Company and also holds a warrant. Mr. Rokach has also held certain roles with Clal Finance. Mr. Rokach graduated from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem with a Bachelor of Arts International Relations in 1993 and from the Tel Aviv University with a diploma in Financial Investment Management in 1993. Mr. Rokach attended New York University in 1994 studying investment management.
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Nicholas Gregory is a digital currencies entrepreneur, software engineer and has been involved with Bitcoin since 2012. Providing start-up support, Nicholas co-authored BIP175 of the bitcoin specification and has been instrumental in designing bitcoin protocols such as MainStay and Lawyer 2 Solutions. He has had leadership positions, building talented teams, in multiple Wall Street Investment banks. Nicholas developed many systems and programs for a variety of companies and industries throughout his career, including Verizon, Capgemini, Merrill Lynch and JP Morgan. He delivered the first Swiss-regulated gold-back token for DGLD and has provided enterprise bitcoin integration on cloud storage systems such as Google Drive and Dropbox. Nicholas is CEO of CommerceBlock and has been quoted in many major publications regarding digital currencies and advisory work for government trade bodies.
Brian Schwieger holds a number of non-executive director and consulting roles after 30 years in commodity and financial markets, including to Redburn Europe Ltd and as senior advisor to McKinsey & Company. In his eight years at London Stock Exchange Group, Brian was responsible for the Equity markets in London and Milan as well as co-head of ETF and Fixed Income markets in London. He was also a non-executive director of MTS, a leading European fixed income trading platform. Brian was previously a Managing Director at Bank of America Merrill Lynch where he helped to build and market their European electronic trading platform. Earlier he held positions at Morgan Stanley (UK Market Maker, European Portfolio Trader, Electronic Trading Business Development) and as a trader of propane and butane cargoes for BP and Continental Grain. Pre-university education was in the US, Germany, Australia and UK. Brian has a BSc (Econ) from the London School of Economics and a Master’s degree in Finance from London Business School.
Daniel Marcus is CEO of MarcX Limited, an advisory company specialising in financial market infrastructure and associated products and services. Dan advises on business strategy, corporate structure, regulatory policy and legal issues. Previously Dan was Co-Head of Tradition UK Managed Business, CEO, ParFX and Trad-X and Global Head of Strategy and Business Development, Tradition. Dan was responsible for the development and implementation of strategic initiatives on a global basis, including planning for global regulatory change. He is a qualified lawyer and joined Tradition in 2007 as General Counsel and has a wealth of experience in both business and legal roles within the financial markets, including with the London Stock Exchange. Dan was Tradition’s primary external representative and still sits on multiple advisory boards and committees. He was instrumental in the creation of the ICE Swap Rate and the successor for LIBOR — Term SONIA in partnership with the industry. Dan has written Tradition’s submissions to industry wide consultations as well various publication and books and has appeared as a subject matter expert on television multiple times.
Reuven Yeganeh has been a director since June 13, 2024. He is an experienced business manager with specific experience in managing funds and a demonstrated history of working in the financial services industry. Since 2021, Mr. Yeganeh has served as a derivatives trader for Inbar Group Finance Ltd. From 2018 to 2021, Mr. Yeganeh was the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Fantazy Network (market: TASE: WILK), which specialized in cannabis investments, and from April 2012 to 2018 was the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Direct Capital (TASE: DCI-M), which was engaged in real estate investments. Prior to 2012, Mr. Yeganeh worked for various investment companies providing managing investment strategy. Further, from 1998 through 2001, Mr. Yeganeh served as a Non-Commissioned Officer it the Israeli Air Force. Mr. Yeganeh received a BA degree in Economics and Administration specializing in finance from Ruppin College, Israel in 2004 and a license to manage investment portfolios from the Israeli Securities Authority in 2006.
Anastasiia Kotaieva has been a director since June 13, 2024. She is an established business manager and entrepreneur. Ms. Kotaieva, since January 2022 to present, has owned and operated Ali Finance, which provides services to clients in the real estate industry as well as the stock market. From February 2019 through November 2021, Ms. Kotaieva served as an analyst for Menora, an insurance company, providing diligence and analyst services. Ms. Kotaieva served as an Account Manager for BSV, a private water well drilling company from January 2015 to October 2018. Ms. Kotaieva received a Bachelors and Masters Degree in Economics from Krok University in Kyiv, Ukraine.
Required Vote
The election of the directors of the Company requires the affirmative vote of a plurality of the shares of the Company’s common stock present in person or represented by Proxy at the Annual Meeting, which will be the nominees receiving the largest number of votes, which may or may not constitute a majority.
RECOMMENDATION OF THE BOARD FOR PROPOSAL NO. 1:
THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR THE ELECTION OF ALL THE NOMINEES DESCRIBED ABOVE.
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PROPOSAL NO. 2
RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
The Company was formed on May 24, 2019. The Company was formed for the purpose of acquiring, engaging in a share exchange, share reconstruction and amalgamation with, purchasing all or substantially all of the assets of, entering into contractual arrangements with, or engaging in any other similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. on June 23, 2023, Brilliant Acquisition Corporation, a British Virgin Islands company (prior to the Merger “Brilliant”, and following the Merger, a Delaware corporation “Nukkleus”), entered into an Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger (as amended by the First Amendment to the Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger on November 1, 2023, the “Merger Agreement”), by and among Brilliant BRIL Merger Sub, Inc., a Delaware corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of Brilliant (“Merger Sub”), and Nukkleus Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Old Nukk”). Old Nukk (f/k/a Compliance & Risk Management Solutions Inc.) was formed on July 29, 2013 in the State of Delaware as a for-profit Company and established a fiscal year end of September 30.
The Merger Agreement provides that, among other things, at the closing (the “Closing”) of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, Merger Sub merged with and into Old Nukk (the “Merger”), with Old Nukk surviving as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Brilliant. In connection with the Merger, Brilliant changed its name to “Nukkleus Inc.” (“Nukkleus” or “Company”). The Merger and other transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement are hereinafter referred to as the “Business Combination.”
In connection with the Business Combination, Brilliant changed its name to “Nukkleus Inc.” The Business Combination was completed on December 22, 2023.
Our Board of Directors pre-approves all services, including both audit and non-audit services, provided by our independent accountants. For audit services, each year the independent auditor provides our board of directors with an engagement letter outlining the scope of the audit services proposed to be performed during the year, which must be formally accepted by the board of directors before the audit commences.
The independent auditor also submits an audit services fee proposal, which also must be approved by the board of directors before the audit commences.
Rotenberg Meril Solomon Bertiger & Guttilla, P.C. (“Rotenberg”) served as the independent auditor for the year ended September 30, 2021 for Old Nukk. Old Nukk was merged into the Company on December 22, 2023 pursuant to that certain Merger Agreement. Effective February 1, 2022, Rotenberg combined with Marcum LLP. Rotenberg continued to operate as an independent registered public accounting firm as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marcum LLP. Rotenberg continued to serve as Old Nukk’s independent registered public accounting firm through the filing of Old Nukk’s Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2022. On July 26, 2022, the Board of Directors of Old Nukk approved the engagement of Marcum LLP to serve as the independent registered public accounting firm of the Company for the year ended September 30, 2022. On May 22, 2023, the Board of Directors of Old Nukk approved the engagement of Gries and Associates, LLC (“Gries”) as Old Nukk’s new independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2023. The change was effective upon execution of an engagement letter. In connection with the selection of Gries, the Board dismissed Marcum LLP as Old Nukk’s independent registered public accounting firm on May 22, 2023. On November 3, 2023, Old Nukk was informed that Gries had sold its business to GreenGrowth CPAs (“GreenGrowth”). On November 5, 2023, Old Nukk engaged and executed an agreement with GreenGrowth CPAs (“GreenGrowth”), as Old Nukk’s new independent accountant to replace Gries. Gries was previously engaged by Old Nukk as its independent registered public accounting firm on May 22, 2023. As Gries was engaged by Old Nukk on May 22, 2023, Gries has not issued a report on Old Nukk’s financial statements. Following the closing of the Merger, GreenGrowth has become the Company’s independent public auditor.
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The following table sets forth the fees billed by our principal independent accountants for each of our last two fiscal years for the categories of services indicated.
| Year Ended | Year Ended | |||||||
| September 30, 2023 | September 30, 2022 | |||||||
| Audit Fees | $ | 118,000 | $ | 289,914 | ||||
| Audit Related Fees | 219,749 | 25,221 | ||||||
| Tax Fees | - | 11,200 | ||||||
| All Other Fees | - | - | ||||||
| Total | $ | 337,749 | $ | 326,335 | ||||
Audit fees. Consists of fees billed for the audit of our annual financial statements, review of our Form 10-K, review of our interim financial statements included in our Form 10-Q and services that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with year-end statutory and regulatory filings or engagements.
Audit-related fees. Consists of fees billed for assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of our financial statements and are not reported under “Audit Fees”, review of our Forms 8-K filings and services that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with non-year-end statutory and regulatory filings or engagements.
Tax fees. Consists of professional services rendered by our accountants for tax compliance, tax advice, tax planning and the preparation of income tax returns.
Other fees. The services provided by our accountants within this category consisted of advice and other services relating to SEC matters, registration statement review, accounting issues and client conferences.
Required Vote
The ratification of the appointment of the Company’s independent auditors requires the receipt of the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of the Company’s common stock present in person or by proxy and cast for this specific item.
RECOMMENDATION OF THE BOARD FOR PROPOSAL NO. 2:
THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF GREENGROWTH CPAS AS OUR INDEPENDENT AUDITORS FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2024.
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PROPOSAL NO. 3
TO APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO OUR CERTIFICATE OF
INCORPORATION TO EFFECT A REVERSE STOCK SPLIT
General
On September 16, 2024, our board of directors unanimously approved, subject to stockholder approval, an amendment to our certificate of incorporation to effect a reverse stock split of our outstanding common stock by combining outstanding shares of common stock into a lesser number of outstanding shares of common stock by a ratio of not less than 1-for-2 and not more than 1-for-30 at any time prior to September 30, 2025, with the exact ratio to be set within this range by our board of directors at its sole discretion. The board of directors may alternatively elect to abandon such proposed amendment and not effect the reverse stock split authorized by stockholders, in its sole discretion. Upon the effectiveness of the amendment to our certificate of incorporation effecting the reverse stock split, the outstanding shares of our common stock will be reclassified and combined into a lesser number of shares such that one share of our common stock will be issued for a specified number of shares. The form of the proposed amendment to our Charter to effect the reverse stock split is attached as Exhibit A to this proxy statement.
If this Proposal 3 is approved by our stockholders as proposed, our board of directors would have the sole discretion to effect the amendment and reverse stock split at any time prior to September 30, 2025, and to fix the specific ratio for the reverse stock split, provided that the ratio would be not less than 1-for-2 and not more than 1-for-30. We believe that enabling our board of directors to fix the specific ratio of the reverse stock split within the stated range will provide us with the flexibility to implement the split in a manner designed to maximize the anticipated benefits for our stockholders. The determination of the ratio of the reverse stock split will be based on a number of factors, described further below under the heading “Criteria to be Used for Decision to Apply the Reverse Stock Split.”
The reverse stock split, if approved by our stockholders, would become effective upon the filing of an amendment to our certificate of incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware, or at the later time set forth in the amendment. The exact timing of the amendment will be determined by our board of directors based on its evaluation as to when such action will be the most advantageous to us and our stockholders, but will not occur after September 30, 2025. In addition, our board of directors reserves the right, notwithstanding stockholder approval and without further action by our stockholders, to abandon the amendment and the reverse stock split if, at any time prior to the effectiveness of the filing of the amendment with the Secretary of State, our board of directors, in its sole discretion, determines that it is no longer in our best interest and the best interests of our stockholders to proceed.
Background and Reasons for the Reverse Stock Split
The Company received notice from The Nasdaq Stock Market (“Nasdaq”) relating to the below deficiencies:
| ● | Minimum Bid Price Requirement (Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2)): The Company previously received a notification letter on May 6, 2024 indicating that the closing bid price for the Company’s common stock had been below $1.00 per share for 35 consecutive business days, and the Company was provided 180 calendar days, or until November 4, 2024, to regain compliance. |
| ● | Minimum Market Value of Publicly Held Shares Requirement (Nasdaq Listing Rule 5450(b)(3)(c)): The Company previously received a notification letter on May 16, 2024 indicating that the Market Value of Publicly Held Shares for the Company’s common stock had been below $15 million for 30 consecutive business days, and the Company was provided 180 calendar days, or until November 12, 2024, to regain compliance. |
| ● | Minimum Market Value of Listed Securities Requirement (Nasdaq Listing Rule 5450(b)(2)(A)): The Company previously received a notification letter on May 16, 2024 indicating that the Market Value of Listed Securities for the Company’s common stock had been below $50 million for 33 consecutive business days, and the Company was provided 180 calendar days, or until November 12, 2024, to regain compliance. |
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The Nasdaq’s notice has no immediate effect on the listing or trading of the Company’s common stock on The Nasdaq Capital Market.
If the Company does not regain compliance during the initial compliance period, it may be eligible for additional time of 180 calendar days to regain compliance. To qualify, the Company will be required to meet the continued listing requirements and all other Nasdaq initial listing standards and will need to provide written notice to Nasdaq of its intention to cure the deficiency during the second compliance period. If the Company is not eligible or it appears to Nasdaq that the Company will not be able to cure the deficiency during the second compliance period, Nasdaq will provide written notice to the Company that the Company’s common stock will be subject to delisting. In the event of such notification, the Company may appeal Nasdaq’s determination to delist its securities, but there can be no assurance that Nasdaq would grant the Company’s request for continued listing.
The Company intends to actively monitor each of its deficiencies and may, as appropriate, consider available options to regain compliance. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to regain compliance with the above deficiencies or will otherwise be in compliance with other Nasdaq listing criteria.
The Board believes that the Reverse Stock Split may be necessary to assure compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement. The Board considers it important for the Company to maintain its Nasdaq listing. Delisting could adversely affect the trading market for the Company’s common stock. Further, delisting would adversely affect the Company’s ability to access the capital markets or pursue acquisitions.
The Company intends to monitor the closing bid price of its common stock. If, based on the bid price of the Company’s common stock closing at or above $1.00 per share for a minimum of 10 consecutive trading days, the Company achieves compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement prior to effecting the Reverse Stock Split, the Company will then evaluate whether it needs to effect the Reverse Stock Split.
Even if the Company is able to regain compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement, there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to regain compliance with Minimum Market Value of Publicly Held Shares Requirement or the Minimum Market Value of Listed Securities Requirement or maintain compliance with the other listing requirements..
Other Potential Benefits of Reverse Stock Split
In addition to helping regain compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement, we believe that the Reverse Stock Split will make our common stock more attractive to a broader range of institutional and other investors, as we have been advised that the current market price of our common stock may affect its acceptability to certain institutional investors, professional investors and other members of the investing public. Many brokerage houses and institutional investors have internal policies and practices that either prohibit them from investing in low-priced stocks or tend to discourage individual brokers from recommending low-priced stocks to their customers. In addition, some of those policies and practices may function to make the processing of trades in low-priced stocks economically unattractive to brokers. Moreover, because brokers’ commissions on low-priced stocks generally represent a higher percentage of the stock price than commissions on higher-priced stocks, the current average price per share of common stock can result in individual stockholders paying transaction costs representing a higher percentage of their total share value than would be the case if the share price were substantially higher. We believe that the Reverse Stock Split will make our common stock a more attractive and cost-effective investment for many investors, which will enhance the liquidity of the holders of our common stock.
Reducing the number of outstanding shares of our common stock through the Reverse Stock Split is intended, absent other factors, to increase the per share market price of our common stock. However, other factors, such as our financial results, market conditions and the market perception of our business may adversely affect the market price of our common stock. As a result, there can be no assurance that the Reverse Stock Split, if completed, will result in the intended benefits described above, that the market price of our common stock will increase (proportionately to the reduction in the number of shares of our common stock after the Reverse Stock Split or otherwise) following the Reverse Stock Split or that the market price of our common stock will not decrease in the future. Accordingly, the total market capitalization of our common stock after the Reverse Stock Split could be lower or higher than the total market capitalization before the Reverse Stock Split.
Any amendment to our amended and restated certificate of incorporation to effect the reverse stock split will include the reverse stock split ratio fixed by our board of directors, within the range approved by our stockholders.
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Criteria to be Used for Decision to Apply the Reverse Stock Split
If our stockholders approve the reverse stock split, our board of directors will be authorized to proceed with the reverse split. In determining whether to proceed with the reverse split and determining the ratio of the reverse stock split, if any, our board of directors will consider a number of factors, including the Minimum Bid Requirement, market conditions, existing and expected trading prices of our common stock and the extent to which the reverse stock split may encourage greater interest in our common stock, enhance the acceptability and marketability of our common stock to the financial community and investing public and promote greater liquidity for our stockholders.
Effect of the Reverse Stock Split
The reverse stock split will be effected simultaneously for all outstanding shares of our common stock. The reverse stock split will affect all of our stockholders uniformly and will not affect any stockholder’s percentage ownership interest in our company, except to the extent that the reverse stock split results in any of our stockholders owning a fractional share. The reverse stock split will not change the terms of our common stock. After the reverse stock split, the shares of common stock will have the same voting rights and rights to dividends and distributions and will be identical in all other respects to the common stock now authorized, which is not entitled to preemptive or subscription rights, and is not subject to conversion, redemption or sinking fund provisions. The post-reverse stock split common stock will remain fully paid and non-assessable. The reverse stock split is not intended as, and will not have the effect of, a “going private transaction” covered by Rule 13e-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Following the reverse stock split, we will continue to be subject to the periodic reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
As of the effective time of the reverse stock split, we will adjust and proportionately decrease the number of shares of our common stock reserved for issuance upon exercise of, and adjust and proportionately increase the exercise price of, all options and warrants, as well as the conversion price and shares issuable upon conversion of convertible promissory notes and other rights to acquire our common stock. In addition, as of the effective time of the reverse stock split, we will adjust and proportionately decrease the total number of shares of our common stock that may be the subject of the future grants under our stock plans.
Assuming reverse stock split ratios of 1-for-2, 1-for-25 and 1-for-30, which reflect the low end, middle and high end of the range that our stockholders are being asked to approve, the following table sets forth (i) the number of shares of our common stock that would be issued and outstanding, (ii) the number of shares of our common stock that would be reserved for issuance pursuant to outstanding warrants, options and convertible notes (excluding interest), and (iii) the weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options and warrants, each giving effect to the reverse stock split and based on securities outstanding as of September 16, 2024.
| Number of Shares Before Reverse Stock Split | Reverse Stock Split Ratio of 1-for-2 | Reverse Stock Split Ratio of 1-for-15 | Reverse Stock Split Ratio of 1-for-30 | |||||||||||||
| Number of Shares of Common Stock Issued and Outstanding | 16,791,964 | 8,395,982 | 1,119,464 | 559,732 | ||||||||||||
| Number of Shares of Common Stock Reserved for Issuance | 13,189,565 | 6,594,783 | 879,304 | 439,652 | ||||||||||||
| Weighted Average Exercise Price of Options and Warrants and Conversion Price of Convertible Notes | $ | 6.20 | 12.40 | 93.00 | 186.00 | |||||||||||
If this Reverse Split Proposal (Proposal 3) is approved and our board of directors elects to effect the reverse stock split, the number of outstanding shares of common stock will be reduced in proportion to the ratio of the split chosen by our board of directors. Accordingly, if a reverse stock split is effected, the number of authorized shares of common stock will be proportionally increased. As present, our board of directors has no immediate plans, arrangements or understandings to issue the additional shares of common stock created resulting from the reverse stock split. However, we desire to have the shares available to provide additional flexibility to use our common stock for business and financial purposes in the future as well to have sufficient shares available to provide appropriate equity incentives for our employees.
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Additionally, if this Reverse Split Proposal (Proposal 3) is approved and our board of directors elects to effect the reverse stock split, we would communicate to the public, prior to the effective date of the stock split, additional details regarding the reverse split, including the specific ratio selected by our board of directors. If the board of directors does not implement the reverse stock split by September 30, 2025, the authority granted in this proposal to implement the reverse stock split will terminate.
Our directors and executive officers have no substantial interests, directly or indirectly, in the matters set forth in this proposed amendment, except to the extent of their ownership in shares of our common stock and securities convertible or exercisable for common stock.
Certain Risks and Potential Disadvantages Associated with the Reverse Stock Split
The effect of the reverse stock split upon the market prices for our common stock cannot be accurately predicted, and the history of similar stock split combinations for companies in like circumstances, including our previous reverse stock split, is varied. If the reverse stock split is implemented, the post-split market price of our common stock may be less than the pre-split price multiplied by the reverse stock split ratio.
In addition, a reduction in number of shares outstanding may impair the liquidity for our common stock, which may reduce the value of our common stock. Also, some stockholders may consequently own less than one hundred shares of our common stock. A purchase or sale of less than one hundred shares may result in incrementally higher trading costs through certain brokers, particularly “full service” brokers. Therefore, those stockholders who own less than one hundred shares following the reverse stock split may be required to pay modestly higher transaction costs should they then determine to sell their shares.
The issuance of authorized but unissued stock resulting from the reverse stock split could be used to deter a potential takeover of the Company that may otherwise be beneficial to stockholders by diluting the shares held by a potential suitor or issuing shares to a stockholder that will vote in accordance with the Board’s desires. A takeover may be beneficial to independent stockholders because, among other reasons, a potential suitor may offer such stockholders a premium for their shares of stock compared to the then-existing market price. The Company does not have any plans or proposals to adopt provisions or enter into agreements that may have material anti-takeover consequences.
Procedure for Effecting the Reverse Stock Split and Exchange of Stock Certificates
If our stockholders approve the proposal to effect the reverse stock split, and if our board of directors still believes that a reverse stock split is in the best interests of us and our stockholders, our board of directors will determine the ratio of the reverse stock split to be implemented and we will file the certificate of amendment with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. As soon as practicable after the effective date of the reverse stock split, stockholders will be notified that the reverse stock split has been effected.
Beneficial Owners of Common Stock. Upon the implementation of the reverse stock split, we intend to treat shares held by stockholders in “street name” (i.e., through a bank, broker, custodian or other nominee), in the same manner as registered stockholders whose shares are registered in their names. Banks, brokers, custodians or other nominees will be instructed to effect the reverse stock split for their beneficial holders holding our common stock in street name. However, these banks, brokers, custodians or other nominees may have different procedures than registered stockholders for processing the reverse stock split and making payment for fractional shares. If a stockholder holds shares of our common stock with a bank, broker, custodian or other nominee and has any questions in this regard, stockholders are encouraged to contact their bank, broker, custodian or other nominee.
Registered Holders of Common Stock. Most of our registered holders of common stock hold some or all of their shares electronically in book-entry form with our transfer agent. These stockholders do not hold physical stock certificates evidencing their ownership of our common stock. However, they are provided with a statement reflecting the number of shares of our common stock registered in their accounts. If a stockholder holds registered shares in book-entry form with our transfer agent, no action needs to be taken to receive post-reverse stock split shares or payment in lieu of fractional shares, if applicable. If a stockholder is entitled to post-reverse stock split shares, a transaction statement will automatically be sent to the stockholder’s address of record indicating the number of shares of our common stock held following the reverse stock split.
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Holders of Certificated Shares of Common Stock. As of the date of this proxy statement, certain of our shares of common stock were held in certificated form. Stockholders of record at the time of the reverse stock split who hold shares of our common stock in certificated form will be sent a transmittal letter by the transfer agent after the effective time that will contain the necessary materials and instructions on how a stockholder should surrender his, her or its certificates, if any, representing shares of our common stock to the transfer agent.
Fractional Shares
We will not issue fractional shares in connection with the reverse stock split. Instead, the Company will issue one full share of the post-reverse split common stock to any stockholder of record who would have been entitled to receive a fractional share as a result of the process.
Adjustment of Number of Shares and Exercise Price or Conversion Price under Warrants, Options and Convertible Notes
Upon the implementation of the reverse stock split we will adjust and proportionately decrease the number of shares of our common stock reserved for issuance upon exercise of, and adjust and proportionately increase the exercise price of, all options and warrants, as well as the conversion price and shares issuable upon conversion of convertible promissory notes and other rights to acquire our common stock. The Company will send a Notice of Adjustment to each holder of any options, warrants or convertible notes indicating the adjustment in the number of shares and the applicable price, as a result of the reverse stock split.
No Appraisal Rights
No action is proposed herein for which the laws of the State of Delaware, or our certificate of incorporation or bylaws, provide a right to our stockholders to dissent and obtain appraisal of, or payment for, such stockholders’ capital stock.
Accounting Consequences
The reverse stock split will not affect total assets, liabilities or shareholders’ equity. However, the per share net income or loss and net book value of the common stock will be retroactively increased for each period because there will be fewer shares of common stock outstanding.
Federal Income Tax Consequences
The following summary of the federal income tax consequences of the Reverse Split is based on current law, including the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and is for general information only. The tax treatment of a stockholder may vary depending upon the particular facts and circumstances of such stockholder, and the discussion below may not address all the tax consequences for a particular stockholder. For example, foreign, state and local tax consequences are not discussed below. Accordingly, each stockholder should consult his or her tax adviser to determine the particular tax consequences to him or her of a Reverse Split, including the application and effect of federal, state, local and/or foreign income tax and other laws. Generally, a reverse stock split will not result in the recognition of gain or loss for federal income tax purposes. The adjusted basis of the new shares of common stock will be the same as the adjusted basis of the common stock exchanged for such new shares. The holding period of the new, post-Reverse Split shares of the common stock resulting from implementation of the Reverse Split will include the stockholder’s respective holding periods for the pre-Reverse Split shares.
Required Vote
Pursuant to the Delaware General Corporation Law, this proposal must be approved by the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock of the Company entitled to vote on the proposal. Abstentions and broker non-votes with respect to this proposal will be counted for purposes of establishing a quorum and, if a quorum is present, abstentions will have the same practical effect as a vote against this proposal.
RECOMMENDATION OF THE BOARD FOR PROPOSAL NO. 3:
THE BOARD UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE “FOR” THE AMENDMENT TO OUR AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION TO EFFECT THE REVERSE STOCK SPLIT.
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PROPOSAL NO. 4
The Company is asking its shareholders to approve and adopt the 2024 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Incentive Plan”) and the material terms thereunder. The Incentive Plan is described in more detail below. A copy of the Incentive Plan is included in this proxy statement as Exhibit C.
The Incentive Plan
The purpose of the Incentive Plan is to enhance Company’s ability to attract, retain and motivate persons who make (or are expected to make) important contributions by providing these individuals with equity ownership opportunities and/or equity-linked compensatory opportunities.
Summary of the Incentive Award Plan
This section summarizes certain principal features of the Incentive Plan. The summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the complete text of the Incentive Plan included as Annex D to this proxy statement.
Best Practices
The Incentive Plan includes a number of features that will reinforce the alignment between the interests of participants in the Incentive Plan and those of the Company’s stockholders. These provisions include, but are not limited to, the following:
| ● | No Discounted Options or SARs. Stock options and SARs may not be granted with exercise prices lower than the fair market value of the underlying shares on the grant date. |
| ● | No Evergreen Provision. The Incentive Plan does not contain an “evergreen” feature that automatically increases the number of shares available for issuance pursuant to awards. Therefore, Nukkleus must obtain stockholder approval each time it desires to authorize additional shares for awards. |
| ● | No Transferability. No award may be transferred, assigned, pledged or encumbered by a participant except pursuant to the laws of descent and distribution or as approved by the Compensation Committee for estate planning or charitable purposes. |
| ● | No Automatic Grants. The Incentive Plan does not provide for “reload” or other automatic grants to participants. |
| ● | No Tax Gross-Ups. The Incentive Plan does not provide for any tax gross-ups to participants. |
General
Under the Incentive Plan, the Company may grant awards with respect to its Common Stock to employees and consultants of the Company and its subsidiaries, as well as non-employee members of any board of directors or board of managers of the Company or of its subsidiaries. Awards may consist of restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock options, stock appreciation rights and other stock-based awards. Each award will be governed by the provisions of the Incentive Plan and the applicable award agreement. The Incentive Plan is not qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code and is not subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended. The Incentive Plan will become effective upon the approval by the Company’s stockholders.
Purpose
The purpose of the Incentive Plan is to attract, retain and motivate employees, officers, directors, consultants, agents, advisors and independent contractors of the Company and its subsidiaries by providing them the opportunity to acquire a proprietary interest in the Company and to align their interests and efforts to the long-term interests of the Company’s stockholders.
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Administration
The Incentive Plan is administered by the Company’s Board, which has the power, subject to the terms of the Incentive Plan and applicable law, to: (i) select the employees, consultants and non-employee directors who will receive awards pursuant to the Incentive Plan; (ii) determine the type or types of awards to be granted to each participant; (iii) determine the number of shares of Common Stock to which an award will relate, (iv) determine the terms and conditions of any award granted under the Incentive Plan; (v) approve the forms of notice or agreement for use under the Incentive Plan; (vi) determine whether, to what extent and under what circumstances awards may be settled in cash, shares of the Company’s Common Stock or other property or canceled or suspended; (vii) interpret and administer the Incentive Plan and any instrument evidencing an award, notice or agreement executed or entered into under the Incentive Plan; (viii) establish such rules and regulations as it shall deem appropriate for the proper administration of the Incentive Plan; (ix) delegate ministerial duties to such of the Company’s employees as it so determines; and (viii) make all other determinations and take other actions as it may deem necessary or advisable for the administration of the Incentive Plan.
Eligibility
All of the Company’s employees and consultants, all employees and consultants of the Company’s subsidiaries, and all non-employee members of the Company Board and those of the Company’s subsidiaries’ boards, if applicable, are eligible to receive awards under the Incentive Plan.
Shares Available Under the Incentive Plan
If this Incentive Plan Proposal is approved by the Company’s stockholders, 10,000,000 shares of Company Common Stock will be available for grant pursuant to awards under the Incentive Plan.
Awards — Generally
Awards may be granted on the terms and conditions described below. In addition, the Company Board may impose on any award or the settlement or exercise thereof, at the date of grant or thereafter, such additional terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the provisions of the Incentive Plan, as the Company Board may determine, including without limitation terms requiring forfeiture of awards in the event of the termination of service of the participant. Each award will be evidenced by an award agreement that will include additional terms and conditions that may be applicable to such Award.
Awards — Types of Awards
Stock Options. Stock options granted under the Incentive Plan may be either ISOs or non-qualified options. The exercise price of an option shall be determined by the Board, but must be at least 100% of the fair market value of the Company’s Common Stock on the date of the grant; provided that the Board may grant non-qualified options with an exercise price per share of less than the fair market value of the Company’s Common Stock if the option (i) is not “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, or (ii) meets all the requirements for awards that are considered “deferred compensation” under Section 409A of the Code. If the participant owns, directly or indirectly, shares constituting more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of the Company’s stock or the stock of any subsidiary, the exercise price of an incentive stock option must be at least 110% of the fair market value of a share of Common Stock on the date the incentive stock option is granted. Each award of an option shall specify the time or times at which the option may be exercised and any terms and conditions applicable to the option, including (i) a vesting schedule which may be based upon the passage of time, attainment of performance goals, or a combination thereof, (ii) whether the exercise price for an option shall be paid in cash, with shares of Common Stock, with a combination of cash and shares of Common Stock, or with other legal consideration, (iii) the methods of payment, which may include payment through cashless and net exercise arrangements, to the extent permitted by applicable law and (iv) the methods by which, and/or the time at which, shares of Common Stock will be delivered or deemed to be delivered to a participant upon exercise of an option. The term of an option may not exceed ten years from the date of grant (or five years from the date of grant in the case of an incentive stock option granted to a participant who owns, directly or indirectly, shares constituting more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of the Company’s stock or the stock of any subsidiary).
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Stock Appreciation Rights. A grant of a SAR entitles the holder to receive, upon exercise of the SAR, the excess of the fair market value of one share of the Company’s Common Stock on the date of exercise over the grant price of the SAR as determined by the Compensation Committee. SARs will be settled either in cash, shares of Common Stock, or a combination of the foregoing. The grant price of a SAR may never be less than 100% of the fair market value of a share of Common Stock on the date of grant. The term of an SAR shall be no greater than ten years from the date of grant.
Stock Awards, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units. With a restricted stock or restricted stock unit award, a participant receives a grant of shares of Common Stock or, in the case of restricted stock units, cash (if set forth in the award instrument), that are subject to certain restrictions, including forfeiture of such stock or cash upon certain events. Unless otherwise provided in an award agreement, during the restriction period, holders of restricted stock will have all the rights of a stockholder with respect to the restricted stock, including, without limitation, the right to receive dividends (whether in cash or additional shares of Common Stock) and to vote shares of restricted stock, provided that any dividends declared on restricted stock shall be subject to the same restrictions as the underlying restricted stock and any cash dividends shall be held by the Company and released to the participant upon the vesting of the underlying restricted stock.
Other Stock-Based Awards. The Board is authorized, subject to the terms of the Incentive Plan and limitations under applicable law, to grant participants other incentives payable in cash or in shares of the Company’s Common Stock under the Incentive Plan.
Change in Control and other Corporate Transactions
Unless the Board determines otherwise in the applicable instrument evidencing the award or in a written employment, services or other agreement between the participant and the Company or its applicable subsidiary, in the event of a change of control of the Company, if and to the extent the award is not converted, assumed, substituted for or replaced by the successor company, then such award shall terminate upon effectiveness of the change of control. If and to the extent the successor company converts, assumes, substitutes for or replaces an outstanding award, all vesting restrictions and/or forfeiture provisions shall continue with respect to such award or any shares of the successor company or other consideration that may be received with respect to such Awards. The Board may instead provide in the event of a change of control that a participant’s outstanding awards shall terminate upon or immediately prior to such change of control and that each such participant shall receive, in exchange therefor, a cash payment equal to the amount (if any) by which (A) the acquisition price applicable to the transaction giving rise to the change of control multiplied by the number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock subject to such outstanding awards (either to the extent then vested and exercisable, or subject to restrictions and/or forfeiture provisions, or whether or not then vested and exercisable, or subject to restrictions and/or forfeiture provisions, as the Company Board determines) exceeds (B) if applicable, the respective aggregate exercise, grant or purchase price payable with respect to shares of the Company’s Common Stock subject to such awards.
Termination of Employment or Other Service
Unless otherwise provided in an award agreement, upon a participant’s termination of employment or other service with the Company or its subsidiaries, the unvested portion of such participant’s awards shall cease to vest and shall be forfeited and the vested portion of such participant’s options and SARs shall remain exercisable by the participant or the participant’s beneficiary or legal representative, as the case may be, for a period of (i) three months in the event of a termination by the Company or a subsidiary without cause or in the event of the participant’s disability, or (ii) 12 months in the event of a termination due to death, but in all cases, not beyond the normal expiration date of the option or SAR. All of a participant’s options and SARs, whether or not vested, shall be forfeited immediately upon such participant’s termination by the Company or a subsidiary for cause.
Amendment and Termination
The Incentive Plan has no fixed expiration date. the Company Board may amend, alter, suspend, or terminate the Incentive Plan without the consent of stockholders, except that to the extent required by applicable law, regulation or stock exchange rule, the approval of Nukkleus’ stockholders shall be required for any amendment of the Incentive Plan.
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Non-US Participants
Without amending the Incentive Plan, awards may be granted to participants who are foreign nationals or are employed or providing services outside the United States or both, on such terms and conditions different from those specified in the Incentive Plan as may, in the judgment of the Board, be necessary or desirable to foster and promote achievement of the purposes of the Incentive Plan. The Board may approve such supplements to, or amendments, restatements or alternative versions of, the Incentive Plan as it may consider necessary or appropriate for such purposes without thereby affecting the terms of the Incentive Plan as in effect for any other purpose.
Summary of U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences
The following discussion is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax considerations that may be relevant to participants in the Incentive Plan. This discussion is for general informational purposes only and does not purport to address specific federal income tax considerations that might apply to a participant based on his or her particular circumstances, nor does it address state, local or foreign income tax or other tax considerations that may be relevant to a participant.
PARTICIPANTS ARE URGED TO CONSULT THEIR OWN TAX ADVISORS WITH RESPECT TO THE PARTICULAR FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES APPLICABLE TO THEM AS A RESULT OF PARTICIPATING IN THE INCENTIVE PLAN, AS WELL AS WITH RESPECT TO ANY APPLICABLE STATE, LOCAL OR FOREIGN INCOME TAX OR OTHER TAX CONSIDERATIONS.
Incentive Stock Options. Upon the grant of an ISO, the option holder will not recognize any income. In addition, no income for federal income tax purposes will be recognized by an option holder upon the exercise of an ISO if the requirements of the Incentive Plan and the Code are satisfied, including, without limitation, the requirement that the option holder remain employed by the Company or a subsidiary during the period beginning on the date of grant and ending on the day three months (or, in the case of the option holder’s disability, one year) before the date the option is exercised. If an option holder has not remained an employee of the Company or a subsidiary during the period beginning on the date of grant of an ISO and ending on the day three months (or one year in the case of the option holder’s disability) before the date the option is exercised, the exercise of such option will be treated as the exercise of a non-qualified option and will have the tax consequences described below in the section entitled “Non-Qualified Options.”
The federal income tax consequences upon a disposition of the shares acquired pursuant to the exercise of an ISO depends upon when the disposition of the shares occurs and the type of such disposition.
| ● | If the disposition of such shares occurs more than two years after the date of grant of the ISO and more than one year after the date of exercise, any gain or loss recognized upon such disposition will be long-term capital gain or loss and the Company or a subsidiary, as applicable, will not be entitled to any income tax deduction with respect to such ISO. |
| ● | If the disposition of such shares occurs within two years after the date of grant of the incentive stock option or within one year after the date of exercise, or a disqualifying disposition, the excess, if any, of the amount recognized over the option price will be treated as taxable income to the participant and, subject to Section 162(m) of the Code, the Company or one of its subsidiaries will be entitled to a deduction equal to the amount of ordinary income recognized by the option holder. The amount of ordinary income recognized by the option holder in a disqualifying disposition (and the corresponding deduction to the Company or a subsidiary, as applicable) is limited to the lesser of the gain on such sale and the difference between the fair market value of the shares on the date of exercise and the option price. Any gain recognized in excess of this amount will be treated as short-term or long-term capital gain (depending upon whether the shares have been held for more than one year). If the option price exceeds the amount recognized upon such a disposition, the difference will be short-term or long-term capital loss (depending upon whether the shares have been held for more than one year). |
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If a participant is subject to the Alternative Minimum Tax, or the AMT, the tax consequences to the participant may differ from those described above. Under the AMT, a taxpayer will be required to pay an alternative minimum tax if the taxpayer’s “tentative minimum tax” (as defined in Section 55 of the Code) exceeds his or her regular tax for the year in question. For purposes of calculating the AMT, upon the exercise of an ISO, a taxpayer is required to include in his “alternative minimum taxable income” (as defined in Section 55 of the Code) for the taxable year in which such exercise occurs an amount equal to the amount of income the taxpayer would have recognized if the option had not been an ISO (i.e., the difference between the fair market value of the shares on the date of exercise and the option’s exercise price). As a result, unless the shares acquired upon the exercise of the ISO are disposed of in a taxable transaction in the same year in which such option is exercised, the option holder may incur AMT as a result of the exercise of an ISO.
Except as provided in the paragraph immediately below, if an option holder elects to tender shares in partial or full payment of the option price for shares to be acquired upon the exercise of an ISO, the option holder will not recognize any gain or loss on such tendered shares. No income will be recognized by the option holder with respect to the shares received by the option holder upon the exercise of the ISO if the requirements of the Restated Plan and the Code described above are met. The number of shares received equal to the number of shares surrendered will have a tax basis equal to the tax basis of the surrendered shares. Shares received in excess of the number of shares surrendered will have a tax basis of zero. The holding period of the shares received equal to the number of shares tendered will be the same as such tendered shares’ holding period, and the holding period for the excess shares received will begin on the date of exercise. Solely for purposes of determining whether a disqualifying disposition has occurred with respect to shares received upon exercise of the ISO, all shares are deemed to have a holding period beginning on the date of exercise.
If an option holder tenders shares that were previously acquired upon the exercise of an ISO in partial or full payment of the option price for shares to be acquired upon the exercise of another ISO, and each such exercise occurs within two years after the date of grant of such ISO or within one year after such shares were transferred to the option holder, the tender of such shares will be a disqualifying disposition with the tax consequences described above regarding disqualifying dispositions. The shares acquired upon such exercise will be treated as shares acquired upon the exercise of an ISO.
If the holding rules described above are not satisfied, gain recognized on the disposition of the shares acquired upon the exercise of an ISO will be characterized as ordinary income, and, subject to Section 162(m) of the Code, the Company or one of its subsidiaries will be entitled to a corresponding deduction. The amount of such gain will be equal to the difference between the exercise price and the fair market value of the shares at the time of exercise. Special rules may apply to disqualifying dispositions where the amount recognized is less than the value at exercise. Any excess of the amount recognized upon such disposition over the fair market value at exercise will generally be long-term or short-term capital gain depending on the holding period involved. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that the exercise of the option is permitted other than by cash payment of the exercise price, various special tax rules may apply.
Non-Qualified Options. An option holder will not recognize taxable income, and the Company or a subsidiary, as applicable, is not entitled to a deduction, when a non-qualified option is granted. Upon the exercise of a non-qualified option, an option holder will recognize compensation taxable as ordinary income equal to the excess of the fair market value of the shares received over the option price of the non-qualified option and, subject to Section 162(m) of the Code, the Company or one of its subsidiaries will be entitled to a corresponding deduction. An option holder’s tax basis in the shares received upon the exercise of a non-qualified option will be equal to the fair market value of such shares on the exercise date, and the option holder’s holding period for such shares will begin at that time. Upon the subsequent sale of the shares received in exercise of a non-qualified option, the option holder will recognize short-term or long-term capital gain or loss, depending upon whether the shares have been held for more than one year. The amount of such gain or loss will be equal to the difference between the amount recognized in connection with the sale of the shares and the option holder’s tax basis in such shares.
If a non-qualified option is exercised in whole or in part with shares held by the option holder, the option holder will not recognize any gain or loss on such tendered shares. The number of shares received by the option holder upon such an exchange that are equal in number to the number of tendered shares will retain the tax basis and the holding period of the tendered shares for capital gain purposes. The shares received by the option holder in excess of the number of shares used to pay the exercise price of the option will have a basis equal to the fair market value on the date of exercise and their holding period will begin on such date.
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Restricted Stock. Upon the grant of an award of restricted stock, the shares are considered to be subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture for federal income tax purposes. If a participant who receives restricted stock does not make the election described below, the participant does not recognize any taxable income upon the receipt of restricted stock and the Company or a subsidiary, as applicable, is not entitled to a deduction at such time. When the forfeiture restrictions with respect to the restricted stock lapse, the participant will recognize compensation taxable as ordinary income equal to the fair market value of the shares at that time, less any amount paid for the shares and, subject to Section 162(m) of the Code, the Company or one of its subsidiaries will be entitled to a corresponding deduction. A participant’s tax basis in restricted stock will be equal to the fair market value of such restricted stock when the forfeiture restrictions lapse, and the participant’s holding period for the shares will begin on such date. Upon a subsequent sale of the shares, the participant will recognize short-term or long-term capital gain or loss, depending upon whether the shares have been held for more than one year at the time of sale. Such gain or loss will be equal to the difference between the amount recognized upon the sale of the shares and the tax basis of the shares in the participant’s hands.
Participants receiving restricted stock may make an election under Section 83(b) of the Code to recognize compensation taxable as ordinary income with respect to the shares when such shares are received rather than at the time the forfeiture restrictions lapse. If the participant makes such an election, subject to Section 162(m) of the Code, the Company or one of its subsidiaries will be entitled to a corresponding deduction in the year of grant. The amount of such compensation income (and the corresponding deduction) will be equal to the fair market value of the shares when the participant receives them (valued without taking into account restrictions other than restrictions that by their terms will never lapse), less any amount paid for the shares. By making a Section 83(b) election, the participant will recognize no additional ordinary compensation income with respect to the shares when the forfeiture restrictions lapse, and will instead recognize short-term or long-term capital gain or loss with respect to the shares when they are sold, depending upon whether the shares have been held for more than one year at the time of sale. The participant’s tax basis in the shares with respect to which a Section 83(b) election is made will be equal to their fair market value when received by the participant, and the participant’s holding period for such shares will begin at that time. If the shares are subsequently forfeited, the participant will not be entitled to a deduction as a result of such forfeiture, but will be entitled to claim a short-term or long-term capital loss (depending upon whether the shares have been held for more than one year at the time of forfeiture) with respect to the shares to the extent of the consideration paid by the participant for such shares.
Generally, during the restriction period, dividends and distributions paid with respect to restricted stock will be treated as compensation taxable as ordinary income (not dividend income) received by the participant, and, subject to Section 162(m) of the Code, the Company or one of its subsidiaries, as applicable, will receive a corresponding deduction. Dividend payments received with respect to shares of restricted stock for which a Section 83(b) election has been made or which are paid after the restriction period lapses generally will be treated and taxed as dividend income.
Stock Appreciation Rights. A participant will not recognize taxable income, and the Company or a subsidiary, as applicable, is not entitled to a deduction, upon the grant of a SAR. Upon exercise or settlement of a SAR, a participant will recognize compensation taxable as ordinary income in an amount equal to the cash or the fair market value of the shares received and, subject to Section 162(m) of the Code, the Company or one of its subsidiaries will be entitled to a corresponding deduction. A participant’s tax basis in shares received upon the exercise of a SAR will be equal to the fair market value of such shares on the exercise date, and the participant’s holding period for such shares will begin at that time. Upon the sale of shares received from the exercise of a SAR, the participant will recognize short-term or long-term capital gain or loss, depending on whether the shares have been held for more than one year. The amount of such gain or loss will be equal to the difference between the amount recognized in connection with the sale of the shares and the participant’s tax basis in the shares.
Restricted Stock Units. A participant will not recognize taxable income upon the grant of RSUs, and the Company or a subsidiary, as applicable, is not entitled to a deduction upon such grant. When the award is settled and the participant receives cash or shares, the participant will recognize compensation taxable as ordinary income equal to the amount of cash received or the fair market value of the shares at that time (as applicable) and, subject to Section 162(m) of the Code, the Company or one of its subsidiaries will be entitled to a corresponding deduction. A participant’s tax basis in shares received at the end of a restriction period will be equal to the fair market value of the shares when the participant receives them, and the participant’s holding period will begin on such date. Upon the sale of the shares received upon the settlement of restricted stock, the participant will recognize short-term or long-term capital gain or loss, depending upon whether the shares have been held for more than one year at the time of sale. Such gain or loss will be equal to the difference between the amount recognized upon the sale of the shares and the tax basis of the shares in the participant’s hands. Dividend equivalents will be taxable to participants upon distribution as compensation, and accordingly, the participant will recognize ordinary income (not dividend income) in such amount and, subject to Section 162(m) of the Code, the Company or a subsidiary, as applicable, will receive a corresponding deduction. In addition, as discussed below, RSUs may be considered deferred compensation that must comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code in order to avoid early income inclusion and tax penalties.
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Withholding. Participants will be responsible for making appropriate provision for all taxes required to be withheld in connection with any awards, including taxes relating to the vesting, exercise and transfer of shares pursuant to the Incentive Plan. The Company or a subsidiary is authorized to withhold from any payment relating to an Award under the Incentive Plan, including from a distribution of Common Stock or any payroll or other payment due to a participant, withholding and other taxes due in connection with any transaction involving an award.
Nonqualified Deferred Compensation. Section 409A of the Code contains certain restrictions on the ability to defer receipt of compensation to future tax years. Any award that provides for the deferral of compensation must comply with Section 409A of the Code or else be subject to further adverse tax consequences. If the requirements of Section 409A of the Code are not met with respect to an award, all amounts deferred under the Incentive Plan during the taxable year and all prior taxable years (to the extent not already included in gross income) will be included in the participant’s taxable income in the later of the year in which such violation occurs or the year in which such amounts are no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture, even if such amounts have not been actually received by the participant. In addition, the violation of Section 409A of the Code will result in an additional tax to the participant of 20% of the deferred amount plus applicable interest computed from the date the award was earned, or if later, the date on which it vested.
Excess Parachute Payments. If the vesting or payment of an award made to a “disqualified individual” (as defined in Section 280G of the Code) occurs in connection with a change in control of the Company, such vesting or payment, either alone or when combined with other compensation payments which such disqualified individual is entitled to receive, may result in an “excess parachute payment” (as defined in Section 280G of the Code). Section 4999 of the Code generally imposes a 20% excise tax on the amount of any such “excess parachute payment” received by such “disqualified individual” and Section 280G of the Code would prevent the Company or a subsidiary or affiliate, as applicable, from deducting such “excess parachute payment.”
APPROVAL OF THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE 2024 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN AND THE AUTHORIZATION OF 10,000,000 SHARES OF
COMMON STOCK FOR ISSUANCE THEREUNDER
Required Vote
The affirmative vote of a majority of shares of common stock present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and cast on this proposal is required for the approval of the Incentive Plan.
RECOMMENDATION OF THE BOARD FOR PROPOSAL NO. 4:
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE “FOR” APPROVAL OF THE 2024 INCENTIVE STOCK PLAN AND THE AUTHORIZATION OF 10,000,000 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK FOR ISSUANCE THEREUNDER.
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PROPOSAL NO. 5
AMENDMENT TO OUR ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED SHARES OF COMMON STOCK
Purposes of the Proposed Increase in Authorized Stock
On September 16, 2024, our Board of Directors (the “Board”) approved an amendment to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock to 150 million shares (the “Amendment”). Under the terms of our Certificate of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation and Nevada law, the Amendment must be approved by the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock. A copy of the Amendment, which is in the form of a Certificate of Amendment to the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, is attached to this Proxy Statement as Exhibit B. The Amendment makes no other changes to our Articles of Incorporation.
The Amendment is intended to give the Company flexibility to issue common stock or securities convertible into common stock for general corporate purposes if an attractive opportunity to do so arises. The Company is currently exploring the possibility of entering into one or more convertible note or other equity-linked transactions to provide liquidity to allow it to continue to pursue its current business plan. Without an increase in the number of authorized shares of common stock, the Company may be constrained in its ability to raise capital in order to support its business objectives, and may lose important business opportunities, including to competitors, which could adversely affect the Company’s financial performance and growth.
If the Company issues additional shares, the ownership interests of holders of our common stock will be diluted. Also, if the Company issues shares of preferred stock, the shares may have rights, preferences and privileges senior to those of its common stock.
Description of the Amendment
As of September 16, 2024, our current authorized capital stock of 55,000,000 consisted of 40,000,000 shares of common stock, of which 16,791,964 shares were outstanding and 15,000,000 shares of preferred stock, no shares of which were outstanding. Approximately 124,286 shares may be issued upon the exercise of options under our employee incentive arrangements.
Under the terms of the Amendment, the total number of authorized shares of capital stock will be increased to 165,000,000. The number of shares of common stock authorized will be increased to 150,000,000. The number of shares of preferred stock will remain unchanged at 15,000,000. The newly authorized shares of common stock will be identical to previously authorized shares of common stock, and will entitle the holders thereto to the same rights and privileges as holders of the previously authorized shares.
Terms of the common stock
The terms of the common stock are as follows:
Dividends. The holders of our common stock will be entitled to dividends as may be declared from time to time by the board of directors from funds available therefor.
Voting Rights. Each share of common stock entitles its holder to one vote on all matters to be voted on by the stockholders. Our Articles of Incorporation do not provide for cumulative voting.
Preemptive Rights. Holders of common stock do not have preemptive rights with respect to the issuance and sale by the Company of additional shares of common stock or other equity securities of the Company.
Liquidation Rights. Upon dissolution, liquidation or winding-up, the holders of shares of common stock will be entitled to receive our assets available for distribution proportionate to their pro rata ownership of the outstanding shares of common stock.
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Anti-takeover effects of the Increase in Authorized Shares
An increase in the number of authorized shares of common stock may also, under certain circumstances, be construed as having an anti-takeover effect. Although not designed or intended for such purposes, the effect of the proposed increase might be to render more difficult or to discourage a merger, tender offer, proxy contest or change in control of us and the removal of management, which stockholders might otherwise deem favorable. For example, the authority of our Board to issue common stock might be used to create voting impediments or to frustrate an attempt by another person or entity to effect a takeover or otherwise gain control of us because the issuance of additional shares of common stock would dilute the voting power of the common stock then outstanding. Our common stock could also be issued to purchasers who would support our Board in opposing a takeover bid which our Board determines not to be in our best interests and those of our stockholders.
The Board is not presently aware of any attempt, or contemplated attempt, to acquire control of the Company and the proposed Certificate of Amendment to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock is not part of any plan by our Board to recommend or implement a series of anti-takeover measures.
Interest of Certain Persons in Matters to Be Acted Upon
None of the Company’s officers or directors has an interest in the Amendment, except to the extent they are stockholders or holders of options issued by the Company and the Amendment may result in increased liquidity of our common stock and the exercisability of such options.
Dissenter’s Rights of Appraisal
The stockholders who dissent from the Amendment have no right to appraisal under the Nevada Revised Statutes, our Articles of Incorporation, or our bylaws.
Procedure for Implementing the Increase in Authorized Shares
The Amendment will become effective upon the filing of a certificate of amendment to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware.
Required Vote
Pursuant to the Delaware General Corporation Law, this proposal must be approved by the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock of the Company entitled to vote on the proposal. Abstentions and broker non-votes with respect to this proposal will be counted for purposes of establishing a quorum and, if a quorum is present, abstentions will have the same practical effect as a vote against this proposal.
RECOMMENDATION OF THE BOARD FOR PROPOSAL NO. 5:
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE “FOR” THE AMENDMENT.
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OTHER MATTERS
The Board of Directors knows of no other business which will be presented at the Annual Meeting. If any other matters properly come before the meeting, the persons named in the enclosed Proxy, or their substitutes, will vote the shares represented thereby in accordance with their judgment on such matters.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Annual Reports on Form 10-K
Additional copies of Nukkleus’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2023 may be obtained without charge by writing to the Chief Financial Officer, Nukkleus Inc., 525 Washington Blvd., Jersey City, New Jersey 07310. Nukkleus’s Annual Report on Form 10-K can also be found on Nukkleus’s website: www.nukk.com.
Stockholders Proposals for the 2024 Annual Meeting.
Stockholder proposals intended to be presented at the Company’s 2024 Annual Meeting must be received by the Company no later than *, 2025 (pursuant to Rule 14a-8 of the Exchange Act, 120 days before the anniversary of the prior year’s mailing date) to be eligible for inclusion in the Company’s proxy statement and form of proxy for next year’s meeting. However, if the date of the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders is changed by more than 30 days from the date of the previous year’s meeting, then the deadline is a reasonable time before we begin to print and send our proxy statement for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. We will disclose the new deadline by which stockholders proposals must be received under Item 5 of our earliest possible Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, or, if impracticable, by any means reasonably calculated to inform stockholders. SEC rules set standards for eligibility and specify the types of stockholder proposals that may be excluded from a proxy statement. Proposals should be addressed to Nukkleus Inc., Attn. Corporate Secretary, 525 Washington Blvd., Jersey City, New Jersey 07310.
Under Rule 14a-4(c) of the Exchange Act, our Board may exercise discretionary voting authority under proxies solicited by it with respect to any matter properly presented by a stockholder at the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders that the stockholder does not seek to have included in our proxy statement if (except as described in the following sentence) the proxy statement discloses the nature of the matter and how our Board intends to exercise its discretion to vote on the matter, unless we are notified of the proposal on or before *, 2025 (pursuant to Rule 14a-4 of the Exchange Act, 45 days before the anniversary of the prior year’s mailing date) and the stockholder satisfies the other requirements of Rule 14a-4(c)(2). However, if the date of the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders is changed by more than 30 days from the date of the previous year’s meeting, then the deadline is a reasonable time before we begin to print and send our proxy statement for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. We will disclose the new deadline by which stockholders’ proposals must be received under Item 5 of our earliest possible Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, or, if impracticable, by any means reasonably calculated to inform stockholders. If we first receive notice of the matter after *, 2025, and the matter nonetheless is permitted to be presented at the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, our Board may exercise discretionary voting authority with respect to the matter without including any discussion of the matter in the proxy statement for the meeting. We reserve the right to reject, rule out of order or take other appropriate action with respect to any proposal that does not comply with the requirements described above and other applicable requirements. Accordingly, with respect to the Company’s 2025 annual meeting of stockholders, notice must be provided to Nukkleus Inc., Attn. Corporate Secretary, 525 Washington Blvd., Jersey City, New Jersey 07310 no later than *, 2025. If a stockholder fails to provide timely notice of a proposal to be presented at the 2025 annual meeting, the chair of the meeting will declare it out of order and disregard any such matter.
Proxy Solicitation Costs
The proxies being solicited hereby are being solicited by the Company. The Company will bear the entire cost of solicitation of proxies including preparation, assembly, printing and mailing of the Proxy Statement, the Proxy card and establishment of the Internet site hosting the proxy material. Copies of solicitation materials will be furnished to banks, brokerage houses, fiduciaries and custodians holding in their names shares of common stock beneficially owned by others to forward to such beneficial owners. Officers and regular employees of the Company may, but without compensation other than their regular compensation, solicit proxies by further mailing or personal conversations, or by telephone, telex, facsimile or electronic means. We will, upon request, reimburse brokerage firms and others for their reasonable expenses in forwarding solicitation material to the beneficial owners of stock.
| By Order of the Board of Directors, | |
| /s/ Menachem Shalom | |
| Menachem Shalom | |
| Chief Executive Officer and Director |
Exhibit A – Form of Certificate of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation, as amended (Reverse Stock Split)
Exhibit B – Form of Certificate of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation, as amended (Increase)
Exhibit C – 2024 Equity Incentive Plan
37
EXHIBIT A
CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT
OF
AMENDED AND RESTATED
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF
Nukkleus Inc.
a Delaware corporation
Nukkleus Inc., a Delaware corporation, organized and existing under and by virtue of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the “DGCL”), does hereby certify that:
FIRST: The name of the corporation is Nukkleus Inc. (the “Corporation”).
SECOND: The Board of Directors of the Corporation (the “Board of Directors”) has duly adopted resolutions proposing and declaring advisable the following amendment to the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation (the “Certificate of Incorporation”), directing that said amendment be submitted to the stockholders of the Corporation for consideration thereof, and authorizing the Corporation to execute and file with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware this Certificate of Amendment of Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (this “Certificate of Amendment”).
THIRD: Upon the effectiveness of this Certificate of Amendment pursuant to the DGCL, Article IV of the Certificate of Incorporation is hereby amended by adding the following paragraph to the end of Article IV:
“(4) Reverse Stock Split. Effective immediately upon the filing of this Certificate of Amendment of Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware (the “Effective Time”), each [__________] ([__________]) shares of Common Stock then issued and outstanding, or held in the treasury of this corporation, immediately prior to the Effective Time, shall automatically be reclassified and converted into one (1) share of Common Stock, without any further action by this corporation or the respective holders of such shares (the “Reverse Stock Split”). No fractional shares shall be issued in connection with the Reverse Stock Split. A holder of Common Stock who would otherwise be entitled to receive a fractional share as a result of the Reverse Stock Split will receive one whole share of Common Stock in lieu of such fractional share.”
FOURTH: This Certificate of Amendment has been duly approved by the Board of Directors in accordance with the applicable provisions of Section 242 of the DGCL.
FIFTH: This Certificate of Amendment has been duly approved by the stockholders of the Corporation in accordance with the applicable provisions of Section 228 of the DGCL.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Corporation has caused this Certificate of Amendment to be executed by the undersigned, and the undersigned has executed this Certificate of Amendment and affirms the foregoing as true under penalty of perjury this [ ] day of [ ], 2024.
| By: | ||
| Name: | ||
| Title: |
A-1
EXHIBIT B
CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT
OF
AMENDED AND RESTATED
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF
Nukkleus Inc.
a Delaware corporation
Nukkleus Inc., a Delaware corporation, organized and existing under and by virtue of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the “DGCL”), does hereby certify that:
FIRST: The name of the corporation is Nukkleus Inc. (the “Corporation”).
SECOND: The Board of Directors of the Corporation (the “Board of Directors”) has duly adopted resolutions proposing and declaring advisable the following amendment to the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation (the “Certificate of Incorporation”), directing that said amendment be submitted to the stockholders of the Corporation for consideration thereof, and authorizing the Corporation to execute and file with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware this Certificate of Amendment of Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (this “Certificate of Amendment”).
THIRD: Upon the effectiveness of this Certificate of Amendment pursuant to the DGCL, Article IV of the Certificate of Incorporation is hereby amended by replacing Section 4.1 as follows:
“Section 4.1 Authorized Capital Stock. The total number of authorized shares which the Corporation is authorized to issue is 150,000,000 shares of Common Stock having a par value of $0.0001 per share (the “Common Stock”) and 15,000,000 shares of preferred stock having a par value of $0.0001 per share (the “Preferred Stock”).”
FOURTH: This Certificate of Amendment has been duly approved by the Board of Directors in accordance with the applicable provisions of Section 242 of the DGCL.
FIFTH: This Certificate of Amendment has been duly approved by the stockholders of the Corporation in accordance with the applicable provisions of Section 228 of the DGCL.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Corporation has caused this Certificate of Amendment to be executed by the undersigned, and the undersigned has executed this Certificate of Amendment and affirms the foregoing as true under penalty of perjury this [ ] day of [ ], 2024.
| By: | ||
| Name: | ||
| Title: |
B-1
EXHIBIT C
EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
NUKKLEUS INC.
2024 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
1. Purpose of the Plan. The purpose of the 2024 Equity Incentive Plan is to attract, retain and motivate employees, officers, directors, consultants, agents, advisors and independent contractors of the Company and its Related Companies by providing them the opportunity to acquire a proprietary interest in the Company and to align their interests and efforts to the long-term interests of the Company’s stockholders.
2. Definitions. Certain capitalized terms used in the Plan have the meanings set forth in Appendix A.
3. Administration.
(a) Administration of the Plan. The Plan shall be administered by the Board. All references in the Plan to the “Plan Administrator” shall be to the Board.
(b) Administration and Interpretation by Plan Administrator.
(i) Except for the terms and conditions explicitly set forth in the Plan and to the extent permitted by applicable law, the Plan Administrator shall have full power and exclusive authority, subject to such orders or resolutions not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan as may from time to time be adopted by the Board, to (A) select the Eligible Persons to whom Awards may from time to time be granted under the Plan; (B) determine the type or types of Awards to be granted to each Participant under the Plan; (C) determine the number of shares of Common Stock to be covered by each Award granted under the Plan; (D) determine the terms and conditions of any Award granted under the Plan; (E) approve the forms of notice or agreement for use under the Plan; (F) determine whether, to what extent and under what circumstances Awards may be settled in cash, shares of Common Stock or other property or canceled or suspended; (G) interpret and administer the Plan and any instrument evidencing an Award, notice or agreement executed or entered into under the Plan; (H) establish such rules and regulations as it shall deem appropriate for the proper administration of the Plan; (I) delegate ministerial duties to such of the Company’s employees as it so determines; and (J) make any other determination and take any other action that the Plan Administrator deems necessary or desirable for administration of the Plan.
(ii) The effect on the vesting of an Award of a Company-approved leave of absence or a Participant’s reduction in hours of employment or service shall be determined by the Company’s chief human resources officer or other person performing that function or, with respect to directors or executive officers, by the Board, whose determination shall be final.
(iii) To the extent desirable to qualify transactions hereunder as exempt under Rule 16b-3, the transactions contemplated hereunder will be structured to satisfy the requirements for exemption under Rule 16b-3.
(iv) Decisions of the Plan Administrator shall be final, conclusive and binding on all persons, including the Company, any Participant, any stockholder and any Eligible Person. A majority of the members of the Plan Administrator may determine its actions.
4. Shares Subject to the Plan.
(a) Authorized Number of Shares. Subject to adjustment from time to time as provided in Section 14 below, the number of shares of Common Stock available for issuance under the Plan shall be ten million (10,000,000) shares. Shares issued under the Plan shall be drawn from authorized and unissued shares or shares now held or subsequently acquired by the Company as treasury shares.
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(b) Share Usage.
(i) Shares of Common Stock covered by an Award shall not be counted as used unless and until they are actually issued and delivered to a Participant. If any Award lapses, expires, terminates or is canceled prior to the issuance of shares thereunder or if shares of Common Stock are issued under the Plan to a Participant and thereafter are forfeited to or otherwise reacquired by the Company, the shares subject to such Awards and the forfeited or reacquired shares shall again be available for issuance under the Plan. Any shares of Common Stock (A) tendered by a Participant or retained by the Company as full or partial payment to the Company for the purchase price of an Award or to satisfy tax withholding obligations in connection with an Award, or (B) covered by an Award that is settled in cash or in a manner such that some or all of the shares of Common Stock covered by the Award are not issued, shall be available for Awards under the Plan. The number of shares of Common Stock available for issuance under the Plan shall not be reduced to reflect any dividends or dividend equivalents that are reinvested into additional shares of Common Stock or credited as additional shares of Common Stock subject or paid with respect to an Award.
(ii) The Plan Administrator shall also, without limitation, have the authority to grant Awards as an alternative to or as the form of payment for grants or rights earned or due under other compensation plans or arrangements of the Company.
(iii) Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan to the contrary, the Plan Administrator may grant Substitute Awards under the Plan. In the event that a written agreement between the Company and an Acquired Entity pursuant to which a merger or consolidation is completed is approved by the Board and that agreement sets forth the terms and conditions of the substitution for or assumption of outstanding awards of the Acquired Entity, those terms and conditions shall be deemed to be the action of the Plan Administrator without any further action by the Plan Administrator, and the persons holding such awards shall be deemed to be Participants.
(iv) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Section 4.(b) to the contrary, the maximum number of shares that may be issued upon the exercise of Incentive Stock Options shall equal the aggregate share number stated in Section 4.(a) above, subject to adjustment as provided in Section 14 below.
5. Eligibility. An Award may be granted to any employee, officer or director of the Company or a Related Company whom the Plan Administrator from time to time selects. An Award may also be granted to any consultant, agent, advisor or independent contractor for bona fide services rendered to the Company or any Related Company that (a) are not in connection with the offer and sale of the Company’s securities in a capital-raising transaction and (b) do not directly or indirectly promote or maintain a market for the Company’s securities.
6. Awards.
(a) Form, Grant and Settlement of Awards. The Plan Administrator shall have the authority, in its sole discretion, to determine the type or types of Awards to be granted under the Plan. Such Awards may be granted either alone or in addition to or in tandem with any other type of Award. Any Award settlement may be subject to such conditions, restrictions and contingencies as the Plan Administrator shall determine.
(b) Evidence of Awards. Awards granted under the Plan shall be evidenced by a written, including an electronic, instrument that shall contain such terms, conditions, limitations and restrictions as the Plan Administrator shall deem advisable and that are not inconsistent with the Plan.
(c) Dividends and Distributions. Participants may, if the Plan Administrator so determines, be credited with dividends or dividend equivalents paid with respect to shares of Common Stock underlying an Award in a manner determined by the Plan Administrator in its sole discretion. The Plan Administrator may apply any restrictions to the dividends or dividend equivalents that the Plan Administrator deems appropriate. The Plan Administrator, in its sole discretion, may determine the form of payment of dividends or dividend equivalents, including cash, shares of Common Stock, Restricted Stock or Stock Units. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the right to any dividends or dividend equivalents declared and paid on the number of shares underlying an Option or a Stock Appreciation Right may not be contingent, directly or indirectly, on the exercise of the Option or Stock Appreciation Right, and must comply with or qualify for an exemption under Section 409A. Also notwithstanding the foregoing, the right to any dividends or dividend equivalents declared and paid on Restricted Stock must (i) be paid at the same time such dividends or dividend equivalents are paid to other stockholders and (ii) comply with or qualify for an exemption under Section 409A.
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7. Options.
(a) Grant of Options. The Plan Administrator may grant Options designated as Incentive Stock Options or Nonqualified Stock Options.
(b) Option Exercise Price. Options shall be granted with an exercise price per share not less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the Grant Date (and not less than the minimum exercise price required by Section 422 of the Code with respect to Incentive Stock Options), except in the case of Substitute Awards. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Plan Administrator may grant Nonqualified Stock Options with an exercise price per share of less than the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the Grant Date if the Option either: (i) is not “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A; or (ii) meets all the requirements for Awards that are considered “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A.
(c) Term of Options. Subject to earlier termination in accordance with the terms of the Plan and the instrument evidencing the Option, the maximum term of an Option (the “Option Term”) shall be ten years from the Grant Date. For Incentive Stock Options, the Option Term shall be as specified in Section 8.(d) below.
(d) Exercise of Options. The Plan Administrator shall establish and set forth in each instrument that evidences an Option the time at which, or the installments in which, the Option shall vest and become exercisable, any of which provisions may be waived or modified by the Plan Administrator at any time. If not so established in the instrument evidencing the Option, the Option shall vest and become exercisable according to the following schedule, which may be waived or modified by the Plan Administrator at any time:
| Period of Participant’s Continuous Employment or Service With the Company or Its Related Companies From the Vesting Commencement Date |
Portion of Total Option That Is Vested and Exercisable | |
| After one (1) year | one quarter (1/4) | |
| After each additional one-month period of continuous service complete thereafter | An additional 1/48 | |
| After four (4) years | 100% |
To the extent an Option has vested and become exercisable, the Option may be exercised in whole or from time to time in part by delivery to or as directed or approved by the Company of a properly executed stock option exercise agreement or notice, in a form and in accordance with procedures established by the Plan Administrator, setting forth the number of shares with respect to which the Option is being exercised, the restrictions imposed on the shares purchased under such exercise agreement or notice, if any, and such representations and agreements as may be required by the Plan Administrator, accompanied by payment in full as described in Section 7.(e) below. An Option may be exercised only for whole shares and may not be exercised for less than a reasonable number of shares at any one time, as determined by the Plan Administrator.
(e) Payment of Exercise Price. The exercise price for shares purchased under an Option shall be paid in full to the Company by delivery of consideration equal to the product of the Option exercise price and the number of shares purchased. Such consideration must be paid before the Company will issue the shares being purchased and must be in a form or a combination of forms acceptable to the Plan Administrator for that purchase, which forms may include:
(i) cash;
(ii) check or wire transfer;
(iii) having the Company withhold shares of Common Stock that would otherwise be issued on exercise of a Nonqualified Stock Option that have an aggregate Fair Market Value equal to the aggregate exercise price of the shares being purchased under the Option;
(iv) tendering (either actually or, if and so long as the Common Stock is registered under Section 12(b) or 12(g) of the Exchange Act, by attestation) shares of Common Stock owned by the Participant that have an aggregate Fair Market Value equal to the aggregate exercise price of the shares being purchased under the Option;
(v) if and so long as the Common Stock is registered under Section 12(b) or 12(g) of the Exchange Act, and to the extent permitted by law, delivery of a properly executed exercise agreement or notice, together with irrevocable instructions to a brokerage firm designated or approved by the Company to deliver promptly to the Company the aggregate amount of proceeds to pay the Option exercise price and any tax withholding obligations that may arise in connection with the exercise, all in accordance with the regulations of the Federal Reserve Board; or
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(vi) such other consideration as the Plan Administrator may permit.
(vii) In addition, to assist a Participant (including directors and executive officers) in acquiring shares of Common Stock pursuant to an Option granted under the Plan, the Plan Administrator, in its sole discretion and to the extent permitted by applicable law, may authorize, either at the Grant Date or at any time before the acquisition of Common Stock pursuant to the Option, (A) the payment by a Participant of the purchase price of the Common Stock by a promissory note or (B) the guarantee by the Company of a loan obtained by the Participant from a third party. The Plan Administrator shall in its sole discretion specify the terms of any loans or loan guarantees, including the interest rate and terms of and security for repayment.
(f) Effect of Termination of Service. The Plan Administrator shall establish and set forth in each instrument that evidences an Option whether the Option shall continue to be exercisable, and the terms and conditions of such exercise, after a Termination of Service, any of which provisions may be waived or modified by the Plan Administrator at any time. If not otherwise established in the instrument evidencing the Option, the Option shall be exercisable according to the following terms and conditions, which may be waived or modified by the Plan Administrator at any time:
(i) Any portion of an Option that is not vested and exercisable on the date of a Participant’s Termination of Service shall expire on such date.
(ii) Any portion of an Option that is vested and exercisable on the date of a Participant’s Termination of Service shall expire on the earliest to occur of:
(A) if the Participant’s Termination of Service occurs for reasons other than Cause, Disability or death, the date that is three (3) months after such Termination of Service;
(B) if the Participant’s Termination of Service occurs by reason of Disability, the date that is twelve (12) months after such Termination of Service;
(C) if the Participant’s Termination of Service occurs by reason of death, the date that is three (3) months after such Termination of Service; and
(D) the Option Expiration Date.
(iii) Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a Participant dies after the Participant’s Termination of Service but while an Option is otherwise exercisable, the portion of the Option that is vested and exercisable on the date of such Termination of Service shall expire upon the earlier to occur of (A) the Option Expiration Date and (B) the date that is three (3) months after the date of death, unless the Plan Administrator determines otherwise.
(iv) Also notwithstanding the foregoing, in case a Participant’s Termination of Service occurs for Cause, all Options granted to the Participant shall automatically expire upon first notification to the Participant of such termination, unless the Plan Administrator determines otherwise. If a Participant’s employment or service relationship with the Company is suspended pending an investigation of whether the Participant shall be terminated for Cause, all the Participant’s rights under any Option shall likewise be suspended during the period of investigation. If any facts that would constitute termination for Cause are discovered after a Participant’s Termination of Service, any Option then held by the Participant may be immediately terminated by the Plan Administrator, in its sole discretion.
(v) A Participant’s Award Agreement also may provide that (A) if the exercise of the Option following the Participant’s Termination of Services (other than upon the Participant’s death or disability) would result in liability under Section 16(b), then the Option will terminate on the earlier of (A) the expiration of the term of the Option set forth in the Award Agreement, or (B) the tenth (10th) day after the last date on which such exercise would result in liability under Section 16(b); or (B) if the exercise of the Option following the Participant’s Termination of Services (other than upon the Participant’s death or Disability) would be prohibited at any time solely because the issuance of shares of Common Stock would violate the registration requirements under the Securities Act, then the Option will terminate on the earlier of (1) the expiration of the term of the Option or (E) the expiration of a period of thirty (30) days after the Termination of Services, during which the exercise of the Option would not be in violation of such registration requirements.
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8. Incentive Stock Option Limitations. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan to the contrary, the terms and conditions of any Incentive Stock Options shall in addition comply in all respects with Section 422 of the Code, or any successor provision, and any applicable regulations thereunder, including, to the extent required thereunder, the following:
(a) Dollar Limitation. To the extent the aggregate Fair Market Value (determined as of the Grant Date) of Common Stock with respect to which a Participant’s Incentive Stock Options become exercisable for the first time during any calendar year (under the Plan and all other stock option plans of the Company and its parent and subsidiary corporations) exceeds $100,000, such portion in excess of $100,000 shall be treated as a Nonqualified Stock Option. In the event the Participant holds two or more such Options that become exercisable for the first time in the same calendar year, such limitation shall be applied on the basis of the order in which such Options are granted.
(b) Eligible Employees. Individuals who are not employees of the Company or one of its parent or subsidiary corporations may not be granted Incentive Stock Options.
(c) Exercise Price. Incentive Stock Options shall be granted with an exercise price per share not less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the Grant Date, and in the case of an Incentive Stock Option granted to a Participant who owns more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of the stock of the Company or of its parent or subsidiary corporations (a “Ten Percent Stockholder”), shall be granted with an exercise price per share not less than 110% of the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the Grant Date. The determination of more than 10% ownership shall be made in accordance with Section 422 of the Code.
(d) Option Term. Subject to earlier termination in accordance with the terms of the Plan and the instrument evidencing the Option, the maximum term of an Incentive Stock Option shall not exceed ten years, and in the case of an Incentive Stock Option granted to a Ten Percent Stockholder, shall not exceed five years.
(e) Exercisability. An Option designated as an Incentive Stock Option shall cease to qualify for favorable tax treatment as an Incentive Stock Option to the extent it is exercised (if permitted by the terms of the Option) (i) more than three months after the date of a Participant’s termination of employment if termination was for reasons other than death or disability, (ii) more than one year after the date of a Participant’s termination of employment if termination was by reason of disability, or (iii) more than six months following the first day of a Participant’s leave of absence that exceeds three months, unless the Participant’s reemployment rights are guaranteed by statute or contract.
(f) Taxation of Incentive Stock Options.
(i) In order to obtain certain tax benefits afforded to Incentive Stock Options under Section 422 of the Code, the Participant must hold the shares acquired upon the exercise of an Incentive Stock Option for two years after the Grant Date and one year after the date of exercise.
(ii) A Participant may be subject to the alternative minimum tax at the time of exercise of an Incentive Stock Option. The Participant shall give the Company prompt notice of any disposition of shares acquired on the exercise of an Incentive Stock Option prior to the expiration of such holding periods.
(g) Code Definitions. For the purposes of this Section 8, “disability,” “parent corporation” and “subsidiary corporation” shall have the meanings attributed to those terms for purposes of Section 422 of the Code.
(h) Stockholder Approval. If the stockholders of the Company do not approve the Plan within twelve (12) months after the Board’s adoption of the Plan (or the Board’s adoption of any amendment to the Plan that constitutes the adoption of a new plan for purposes of Section 422 of the Code) Incentive Stock Options granted under the Plan after the date of the Board’s adoption (or approval) will be treated as Nonqualified Stock Options. No Incentive Stock Options may be granted more than ten years after the earlier of the approval by the Board or the stockholders of the Plan (or any amendment to the Plan that constitutes the adoption of a new plan for purposes of Section 422 of the Code).
(i) Promissory Notes. The amount of any promissory note delivered pursuant to Section 7.(e) above in connection with an Incentive Stock Option shall bear interest at a rate specified by the Plan Administrator, but in no case less than the rate required to avoid imputation of interest (taking into account any exceptions to the imputed interest rules) for federal income tax purposes.
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9. Stock Appreciation Rights.
(a) Grant of Stock Appreciation Rights. The Plan Administrator may grant Stock Appreciation Rights to Participants at any time on such terms and conditions as the Plan Administrator shall determine in its sole discretion. An SAR may be granted in tandem with an Option (a “tandem SAR”) or alone (a “freestanding SAR”). The grant price of a tandem SAR shall be equal to the exercise price of the related Option. The grant price of a freestanding SAR shall be established in accordance with procedures for Options set forth in Section 7.(b) above. An SAR may be exercised upon such terms and conditions and for such term as the Plan Administrator determines in its sole discretion; provided, however, that, subject to earlier termination in accordance with the terms of the Plan and the instrument evidencing the SAR, the maximum term of a freestanding SAR shall be ten years, and in the case of a tandem SAR, (i) the term shall not exceed the term of the related Option and (ii) the tandem SAR may be exercised for all or part of the shares subject to the related Option upon the surrender of the right to exercise the equivalent portion of the related Option, except that the tandem SAR may be exercised only with respect to the shares for which its related Option is then exercisable.
(b) Payment of SAR Amount. Upon the exercise of an SAR, a Participant shall be entitled to receive payment in an amount determined by multiplying: (i) the difference between the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the date of exercise over the grant price of the SAR by (ii) the number of shares with respect to which the SAR is exercised. At the discretion of the Plan Administrator as set forth in the instrument evidencing the Award, the payment upon exercise of an SAR may be in cash, in shares, in some combination thereof or in any other manner approved by the Plan Administrator in its sole discretion.
(c) Waiver of Restrictions. The Plan Administrator, in its sole discretion, may waive any other terms, conditions or restrictions on any SAR under such circumstances and subject to such terms and conditions as the Plan Administrator shall deem appropriate.
10. Stock Awards, Restricted Stock and Stock Units.
(a) Grant of Stock Awards, Restricted Stock and Stock Units. The Plan Administrator may grant Stock Awards, Restricted Stock and Stock Units on such terms and conditions and subject to such repurchase or forfeiture restrictions, if any, which may be based on continuous service with the Company or a Related Company or the achievement of any performance goals, as the Plan Administrator shall determine in its sole discretion, which terms, conditions and restrictions shall be set forth in the instrument evidencing the Award.
(b) Vesting of Restricted Stock and Stock Units. Upon the satisfaction of any terms, conditions and restrictions prescribed with respect to Restricted Stock or Stock Units, or upon a Participant’s release from any terms, conditions and restrictions on Restricted Stock or Stock Units, as determined by the Plan Administrator (i) the shares covered by each Award of Restricted Stock shall become freely transferable by the Participant subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan, the instrument evidencing the Award, and applicable securities laws, and (ii) Stock Units shall be paid in shares of Common Stock or, if set forth in the instrument evidencing the Awards, in cash or a combination of cash and shares of Common Stock. Any fractional shares subject to such Awards shall be paid to the Participant in cash.
(c) Waiver of Restrictions. The Plan Administrator, in its sole discretion, may waive the repurchase or forfeiture period and any other terms, conditions or restrictions on any Restricted Stock or Stock Unit under such circumstances and subject to such terms and conditions as the Plan Administrator shall deem appropriate.
11. Other Stock or Cash Based Awards. Subject to the terms of the Plan and such other terms and conditions as the Plan Administrator deems appropriate, the Plan Administrator may grant other incentives payable in cash or in shares of Common Stock under the Plan.
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12. Withholding.
(a) The Company may require the Participant to pay to the Company or a Related Company, as applicable, the amount of (i) any taxes that the Company or a Related Company is required by applicable federal, state, local or foreign law to withhold with respect to the grant, vesting or exercise of an Award (“tax withholding obligations”) and (ii) any amounts due from the Participant to the Company or to any Related Company (“other obligations”). Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan to the contrary, the Company shall not be required to issue any shares of Common Stock or otherwise settle an Award under the Plan until such tax withholding obligations and other obligations are satisfied.
(b) The Plan Administrator, in its sole discretion, may permit or require a Participant to satisfy all or part of the Participant’s tax withholding obligations and other obligations by (i) paying cash to the Company or a Related Company, as applicable, (ii) having the Company or a Related Company, as applicable, withhold an amount from any cash amounts otherwise due or to become due from the Company to the Participant, (iii) having the Company withhold a number of shares of Common Stock that would otherwise be issued to the Participant (or become vested, in the case of Restricted Stock) having a Fair Market Value equal to the tax withholding obligations and other obligations, or (iv) surrendering a number of shares of Common Stock the Participant already owns having a value equal to the tax withholding obligations and other obligations. The value of the shares so withheld or tendered may not exceed the employer’s applicable minimum required tax withholding rate or such other applicable rate as is necessary to avoid adverse treatment for financial accounting purposes, as determined by the Plan Administrator in its sole discretion.
13. Assignability. No Award or interest in an Award may be sold, assigned, pledged (as collateral for a loan or as security for the performance of an obligation or for any other purpose) or transferred by a Participant or made subject to attachment or similar proceedings otherwise than by will or by the applicable laws of descent and distribution, except to the extent the Participant designates one or more beneficiaries on a Company-approved form who may exercise the Award or receive payment under the Award after the Participant’s death. During a Participant’s lifetime, an Award may be exercised only by the Participant. Notwithstanding the foregoing and to the extent permitted by Section 422 of the Code, the Plan Administrator, in its sole discretion, may permit a Participant to assign or transfer an Award, subject to such terms and conditions as the Plan Administrator shall specify.
14. Adjustments.
(a) Adjustment of Shares.
(i) In the event that, at any time or from time to time, a stock dividend, stock split, spin-off, combination or exchange of shares, recapitalization, merger, consolidation, distribution to stockholders other than a normal cash dividend, or other change in the Company’s corporate or capital structure results in (A) the outstanding shares of Common Stock, or any securities exchanged therefor or received in their place, being exchanged for a different number or kind of securities of the Company or any other company or (B) new, different or additional securities of the Company or any other company being received by the holders of shares of Common Stock, then the Plan Administrator shall make proportional adjustments in (1) the maximum number and kind of securities available for issuance under the Plan; (2) the maximum number and kind of securities issuable as Incentive Stock Options as set forth in Section 4.(b)(iv); and (3) the number and kind of securities that are subject to any outstanding Award and the per share price of such securities, without any change in the aggregate price to be paid therefor. The determination by the Plan Administrator as to the terms of any of the foregoing adjustments shall be conclusive and binding.
(ii) Notwithstanding the foregoing, the issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, for cash or property, or for labor or services rendered, either upon direct sale or upon the exercise of rights or warrants to subscribe therefor, or upon conversion of shares or obligations of the Company convertible into such shares or other securities, shall not affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, outstanding Awards. Also notwithstanding the foregoing, a dissolution or liquidation of the Company or a Change of Control shall not be governed by this Section 14.(a) but shall be governed by Sections 14.(b) below and 14.(c) below, respectively.
(b) Dissolution or Liquidation. To the extent not previously exercised or settled, and unless otherwise determined by the Plan Administrator in its sole discretion, Awards shall terminate immediately prior to the dissolution or liquidation of the Company. To the extent a vesting condition, forfeiture provision or repurchase right applicable to an Award has not been waived by the Plan Administrator, the Award shall be forfeited immediately prior to the consummation of the dissolution or liquidation.
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(c) Change of Control.
(i) Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan to the contrary, unless the Plan Administrator determines otherwise with respect to a particular Award in the instrument evidencing the Award or in a written employment, services or other agreement between the Participant and the Company or a Related Company, in the event of a Change of Control, if and to the extent an outstanding Award is not converted, assumed, substituted for or replaced by the Successor Company, then such Award shall terminate upon effectiveness of the Change of Control. If and to the extent the Successor Company converts, assumes, substitutes for or replaces an outstanding Award, all vesting restrictions and/or forfeiture provisions shall continue with respect to such Award or any shares of the Successor Company or other consideration that may be received with respect to such Awards.
(ii) For the purposes of Section 14.(c), an Award shall be considered converted, assumed, substituted for or replaced by the Successor Company if following the Change of Control the Award confers the right to purchase or receive, for each share of Common Stock subject to the Award immediately prior to the Change of Control, the consideration (whether stock, cash or other securities or property) received in the Change of Control by holders of Common Stock for each share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the Change of Control is not solely common stock of the Successor Company, the Plan Administrator may, with the consent of the Successor Company, provide for the consideration to be received pursuant to the Award, for each share of Common Stock subject thereto, to be solely common stock of the Successor Company substantially equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the Change of Control. The determination of such substantial equality of value of consideration shall be made by the Plan Administrator, and its determination shall be conclusive and binding.
(iii) Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Plan Administrator, in its sole discretion, may instead provide in the event of a Change of Control that a Participant’s outstanding Awards shall terminate upon or immediately prior to such Change of Control and that each such Participant shall receive, in exchange therefor, a cash payment equal to the amount (if any) by which (A) the Acquisition Price multiplied by the number of shares of Common Stock subject to such outstanding Awards (either to the extent then vested and exercisable, or subject to restrictions and/or forfeiture provisions, or whether or not then vested and exercisable, or subject to restrictions and/or forfeiture provisions, as determined by the Plan Administrator in its sole discretion) exceeds (B) if applicable, the respective aggregate exercise, grant or purchase price payable with respect to shares of Common Stock subject to such Awards.
(iv) For the avoidance of doubt, nothing in this Section 14.(c) requires all Awards to be treated similarly.
(d) Further Adjustment of Awards. Subject to Sections 14.(b) above and 14.(c) above, the Plan Administrator shall have the discretion, exercisable at any time before a sale, merger, consolidation, reorganization, liquidation, dissolution or change of control of the Company, as defined by the Plan Administrator, to take such further action as it determines to be necessary or advisable with respect to Awards. Such authorized action may include (but shall not be limited to) establishing, amending or waiving the type, terms, conditions or duration of, or restrictions on, Awards so as to provide for earlier, later, extended or additional time for exercise, lifting restrictions and other modifications, and the Plan Administrator may take such actions with respect to all Participants, to certain categories of Participants or only to individual Participants. The Plan Administrator may take such action before or after granting Awards to which the action relates and before or after any public announcement with respect to such sale, merger, consolidation, reorganization, liquidation, dissolution or change of control that is the reason for such action.
(e) No Limitations. The grant of Awards shall in no way affect the Company’s right to adjust, reclassify, reorganize or otherwise change its capital or business structure or to merge, consolidate, dissolve, liquidate or sell or transfer all or any part of its business or assets.
(f) Fractional Shares. In the event of any adjustment in the number of shares covered by any Award, each such Award shall cover only the number of full shares resulting from such adjustment, and any fractional shares resulting from such adjustment shall be disregarded.
(g) Section 409A. Subject to Section 22 below, but notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan to the contrary, (i) any adjustments made pursuant to this Section 14 to Awards that are considered “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be made in compliance with the requirements of Section 409A and (ii) any adjustments made pursuant to this Section 14 to Awards that are not considered “deferred compensation” subject to Section 409A shall be made in such a manner as to ensure that after such adjustment the Awards either (A) continue not to be subject to Section 409A or (B) comply with the requirements of Section 409A.
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15. Amendment and Termination.
(a) Amendment, Suspension or Termination. The Board may amend, suspend or terminate the Plan or any portion of the Plan at any time and in such respects as it shall deem advisable; provided, however, that, to the extent required by applicable law, regulation or stock exchange rule, stockholder approval shall be required for any amendment to the Plan. Subject to Section 15(b) below, the Board may amend the terms of any outstanding Award, prospectively or retroactively.
(b) Term of the Plan. The Plan shall have no fixed expiration date. After the Plan is terminated, no future Awards may be granted, but Awards previously granted shall remain outstanding in accordance with their applicable terms and conditions and the Plan’s terms and conditions. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no Incentive Stock Options may be granted more than ten years after the later of (i) the adoption of the Plan by the Board and (ii) the adoption by the Board of any amendment to the Plan that constitutes the adoption of a new plan for purposes of Section 422 of the Code.
(c) Consent of Participant.
(i) The amendment, suspension or termination of the Plan or a portion thereof or the amendment of an outstanding Award shall not, without the Participant’s consent, materially adversely affect any rights under any Award theretofore granted to the Participant under the Plan. Any change or adjustment to an outstanding Incentive Stock Option shall not, without the consent of the Participant, be made in a manner so as to constitute a “modification” that would cause such Incentive Stock Option to fail to continue to qualify as an Incentive Stock Option. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any adjustments made pursuant to Section 14 above shall not be subject to these restrictions.
(ii) Subject to Section 22, but notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan to the contrary, the Plan Administrator shall have broad authority to amend the Plan or any outstanding Award without the consent of the Participant to the extent the Plan Administrator deems necessary or advisable to comply with, or take into account, changes in applicable tax laws, securities laws, accounting rules or other applicable law, rule or regulation.
16. No Individual Rights.
(a) No individual or Participant shall have any claim to be granted any Award under the Plan, and the Company has no obligation for uniformity of treatment of Participants under the Plan.
(b) Furthermore, nothing in the Plan or any Award granted under the Plan shall be deemed to constitute an employment contract or confer or be deemed to confer on any Participant any right to continue in the employ of, or to continue any other relationship with, the Company or any Related Company or limit in any way the right of the Company or any Related Company to terminate a Participant’s employment or other relationship at any time, with or without cause.
17. Issuance of Shares.
(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan to the contrary, the Company shall have no obligation to issue or deliver any shares of Common Stock under the Plan or make any other distribution of benefits under the Plan unless, in the opinion of the Company’s counsel, such issuance, delivery or distribution would comply with all applicable laws (including, without limitation, the requirements of the Securities Act or the laws of any state or foreign jurisdiction) and the applicable requirements of any securities exchange or similar entity.
(b) As a condition to the exercise of an Option or any other receipt of Common Stock pursuant to an Award under the Plan, the Company may require (i) the Participant to represent and warrant at the time of any such exercise or receipt that such shares are being purchased or received only for the Participant’s own account and without any present intention to sell or distribute such shares and (ii) such other action or agreement by the Participant as may from time to time be necessary to comply with federal, state and foreign securities laws. At the option of the Company, a stop-transfer order against any such shares may be placed on the official stock books and records of the Company, and a legend indicating that such shares may not be pledged, sold or otherwise transferred, unless an opinion of counsel is provided (concurred in by counsel for the Company) stating that such transfer is not in violation of any applicable law or regulation, may be stamped on stock certificates to ensure exemption from registration. The Plan Administrator may also require the Participant to execute and deliver to the Company a purchase agreement or such other agreement as may be in use by the Company at such time that describes certain terms and conditions applicable to the shares.
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(c) To the extent the Plan or any instrument evidencing an Award provides for issuance of stock certificates to reflect the issuance of shares of Common Stock, the issuance may be effected on a noncertificated basis, to the extent not prohibited by applicable law or the applicable rules of any stock exchange.
18. Indemnification.
(a) Each person who is or shall have been a member of the Board shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Company against and from any loss, cost, liability or expense that may be imposed upon or reasonably incurred by such person in connection with or resulting from any claim, action, suit or proceeding to which such person may be a party or in which such person may be involved by reason of any action taken or failure to act under the Plan and against and from any and all amounts paid by such person in settlement thereof, with the Company’s approval, or paid by such person in satisfaction of any judgment in any such claim, action, suit or proceeding against such person, unless such loss, cost, liability or expense is a result of such person’s own willful misconduct or except as expressly provided by statute; provided, however, that such person shall give the Company an opportunity, at its own expense, to handle and defend the same before such person undertakes to handle and defend it on such person’s own behalf.
(b) The foregoing right of indemnification shall not be exclusive of any other rights of indemnification to which such person may be entitled under the Company’s certificate of incorporation or bylaws, as a matter of law, or otherwise, or of any power that the Company may have to indemnify or hold harmless.
19. No Rights as a Stockholder. Unless otherwise provided by the Plan Administrator or in the instrument evidencing the Award or in a written employment, services or other agreement, no Award, other than a Stock Award or an Award of Restricted Stock, shall entitle the Participant to any cash dividend, voting or other right of a stockholder unless and until the date of issuance under the Plan of the shares that are the subject of such Award.
20. Compliance with Laws and Regulations.
(a) In interpreting and applying the provisions of the Plan, any Option granted as an Incentive Stock Option pursuant to the Plan shall, to the extent permitted by law, be construed as an “incentive stock option” within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code.
(b) The Plan and Awards granted under the Plan are intended to be exempt from the requirements of Section 409A to the maximum extent possible, whether pursuant to the short-term deferral exception described in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(b)(4), the exclusion applicable to stock options, stock appreciation rights and certain other equity-based compensation under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(b)(5), or otherwise. To the extent Section 409A is applicable to the Plan or any Award granted under the Plan, it is intended that the Plan and any Awards granted under the Plan shall comply with the deferral, payout, plan termination and other limitations and restrictions imposed under Section 409A. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan or any Award granted under the Plan to the contrary, the Plan and any Award granted under the Plan shall be interpreted, operated and administered in a manner consistent with such intentions; provided, however, that the Plan Administrator makes no representations that Awards granted under the Plan shall be exempt from or comply with Section 409A and makes no undertaking to preclude Section 409A from applying to Awards granted under the Plan. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, and notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan or any Award granted under the Plan to the contrary, with respect to any payments and benefits under the Plan or any Award granted under the Plan to which Section 409A applies, all references in the Plan or any Award granted under the Plan to the termination of the Participant’s employment or service are intended to mean the Participant’s “separation from service,” within the meaning of Section 409A(a)(2)(A)(i) to the extent necessary to avoid subjecting the Participant to the imposition of any additional tax under Section 409A. In addition, if the Participant is a “specified employee,” within the meaning of Section 409A, then to the extent necessary to avoid subjecting the Participant to the imposition of any additional tax under Section 409A, amounts that would otherwise be payable under the Plan or any Award granted under the Plan during the six-month period immediately following the Participant’s “separation from service,” within the meaning of Section 409A(a)(2)(A)(i), shall not be paid to the Participant during such period, but shall instead be accumulated and paid to the Participant (or, in the event of the Participant’s death, the Participant’s estate) in a lump sum on the first business day after the earlier of the date that is six months following the Participant’s separation from service or the Participant’s death. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan to the contrary, the Plan Administrator, to the extent it deems necessary or advisable in its sole discretion, reserves the right, but shall not be required, to unilaterally amend or modify the Plan and any Award granted under the Plan so that the Award qualifies for exemption from or complies with Section 409A.
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21. Participants in Other Countries or Jurisdictions. Without amending the Plan, the Plan Administrator may grant Awards to Eligible Persons who are foreign nationals on such terms and conditions different from those specified in the Plan, as may, in the judgment of the Plan Administrator, be necessary or desirable to foster and promote achievement of the purposes of the Plan and shall have the authority to adopt such modifications, procedures, subplans and the like as may be necessary or desirable to comply with provisions of the laws or regulations of other countries or jurisdictions in which the Company or any Related Company may operate or have employees to ensure the viability of the benefits from Awards granted to Participants employed in such countries or jurisdictions, meet the requirements that permit the Plan to operate in a qualified or tax efficient manner, comply with applicable foreign laws or regulations and meet the objectives of the Plan.
22. No Trust or Fund. The Plan is intended to constitute an “unfunded” plan. Nothing contained herein shall require the Company to segregate any monies or other property, or shares of Common Stock, or to create any trusts, or to make any special deposits for any immediate or deferred amounts payable to any Participant, and no Participant shall have any rights that are greater than those of a general unsecured creditor of the Company.
23. Successors. All obligations of the Company under the Plan with respect to Awards shall be binding on any successor to the Company, whether the existence of such successor is the result of a direct or indirect purchase, merger, consolidation, or otherwise, of all or substantially all the business and/or assets of the Company.
24. Severability. If any provision of the Plan or any Award is determined to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any jurisdiction, or as to any person, or would disqualify the Plan or any Award under any law deemed applicable by the Plan Administrator, such provision shall be construed or deemed amended to conform to applicable laws, or, if it cannot be so construed or deemed amended without, in the Plan Administrator’s determination, materially altering the intent of the Plan or the Award, such provision shall be stricken as to such jurisdiction, person or Award, and the remainder of the Plan and any such Award shall remain in full force and effect.
25. Choice of Law and Venue. The Plan, all Awards granted thereunder and all determinations made and actions taken pursuant hereto, to the extent not otherwise governed by the laws of the United States, shall be governed by the laws of the state of Delaware without giving effect to principles of conflicts of law. Participants irrevocably consent to the nonexclusive jurisdiction and venue of the state and federal courts located in the state of California.
26. Legal Requirements. The granting of Awards and the issuance of shares of Common Stock under the Plan is subject to all applicable laws, rules and regulations, and to such approvals by any governmental agencies or national securities exchanges as may be required.
27. Effective Date. The effective date (the “Effective Date”) is the date on which the Plan is adopted by the Board. If the stockholders of the Company do not approve the Plan within 12 months after the Board’s adoption of the Plan, any Incentive Stock Options granted under the Plan will be treated as Nonqualified Stock Options.
Appendix A
DEFINITIONS
As used in the Plan:
“Acquired Entity” means any entity acquired by the Company or a Related Company or with which the Company or a Related Company merges or combines.
“Acquisition Price” means the value of the per share consideration (consisting of securities, cash or other property, or any combination thereof), receivable or deemed receivable upon a Change of Control in respect of a share of Common Stock, as determined by the Plan Administrator in its sole discretion.
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“Award” means any Option, Stock Appreciation Right, Stock Award, Restricted Stock, Stock Unit or cash-based award or other incentive payable in cash or in shares of Common Stock, as may be designated by the Plan Administrator from time to time.
“Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company.
“Cause,” unless otherwise defined in the instrument evidencing an Award or in a written employment, services or other agreement between the Participant and the Company or a Related Company, means dishonesty, fraud, serious or willful misconduct, unauthorized use or disclosure of confidential information or trade secrets, or conduct prohibited by law (except minor violations), in each case as determined by the Company’s chief human resources officer or other person performing that function or, in the case of directors and executive officers, the Board, whose determination shall be conclusive and binding.
“Change of Control,” unless the Plan Administrator determines otherwise with respect to an Award at the time the Award is granted or unless otherwise defined for purposes of an Award in a written employment, services or other agreement between the Participant and the Company or a Related Company, means consummation of:
(a) a merger or consolidation of the Company with or into any other company or other entity;
(b) a sale, in one transaction or a series of transactions undertaken with a common purpose, of all of the Company’s outstanding voting securities; or
(c) a sale, lease, exchange or other transfer, in one transaction or a series of related transactions, undertaken with a common purpose of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, a Change of Control shall not include (i) a merger or consolidation of the Company in which the holders of the outstanding voting securities of the Company immediately prior to the merger or consolidation hold at least a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Successor Company immediately after the merger or consolidation; (ii) a sale, lease, exchange or other transfer of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets to a majority-owned subsidiary company; (iii) a transaction undertaken for the principal purpose of restructuring the capital of the Company, including, but not limited to, reincorporating the Company in a different jurisdiction, converting the Company to a limited liability company or creating a holding company; or (iv) any transaction that the Board determines is not a Change of Control for purposes of the Plan.
Where a series of transactions undertaken with a common purpose is deemed to be a Change of Control, the date of such Change of Control shall be the date on which the last of such transactions is consummated.
“Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time.
“Common Stock” means the common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of the Company.
“Company” means Nukkleus Inc., a Delaware corporation.
“Disability,” unless otherwise defined by the Plan Administrator for purposes of the Plan or in the instrument evidencing an Award or in a written employment, services or other agreement between the Participant and the Company or a Related Company, means a mental or physical impairment of the Participant that is expected to result in death or that has lasted or is expected to last for a continuous period of 12 months or more and that causes the Participant to be unable to perform his or her material duties for the Company or a Related Company and to be engaged in any substantial gainful activity, in each case as determined by the Company’s chief human resources officer or other person performing that function or, in the case of directors and executive officers, the Board, each of whose determination shall be conclusive and binding.
“Effective Date” has the meaning set forth in Section 30 of the Plan.
“Eligible Person” means any person eligible to receive an Award as set forth in Section 5 of the Plan.
“Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time.
“Fair Market Value” means the closing price for the Common Stock on any given date during regular trading, or if not trading on that date, such price on the last preceding date on which the Common Stock was traded, unless determined otherwise by the Plan Administrator using such methods or procedures as it may establish.
“Grant Date” means the later of (a) the date on which the Plan Administrator completes the corporate action authorizing the grant of an Award or such later date specified by the Plan Administrator and (b) the date on which all conditions precedent to an Award have been satisfied, provided that conditions to the exercisability or vesting of Awards shall not defer the Grant Date.
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“Incentive Stock Option” means an Option granted with the intention that it qualify as an “incentive stock option” as that term is defined for purposes of Section 422 of the Code or any successor provision.
“Nonqualified Stock Option” means an Option other than an Incentive Stock Option.
“Option” means a right to purchase Common Stock granted under Section 7 of the Plan.
“Option Expiration Date” means the last day of the maximum term of an Option.
“Option Term” means the maximum term of an Option as set forth in Section 7.(c) of the Plan.
“Participant” means any Eligible Person to whom an Award is granted.
“Plan” means the 2022 Equity Incentive Plan.
“Plan Administrator” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.(a) of the Plan.
“Related Company” means any entity that, directly or indirectly, is in control of, is controlled by or is under common control with the Company.
“Restricted Stock” means an Award of shares of Common Stock granted under Section 10 of the Plan, the rights of ownership of which are subject to restrictions prescribed by the Plan Administrator.
“Rule 16b-3” means Rule 16b-3 of the Exchange Act or any successor to Rule 16b-3, as in effect when discretion is being exercised with respect to the Plan.
“Section 16(b)” means Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act.
“Section 409A” means Section 409A of the Code.
“Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended from time to time.
“Stock Appreciation Right” or “SAR” means a right granted under Section 9.(a) of the Plan to receive the excess of the Fair Market Value of a specified number of shares of Common Stock over the grant price.
“Stock Award” means an Award of shares of Common Stock granted under Section 10 of the Plan, the rights of ownership of which are not subject to restrictions prescribed by the Plan Administrator.
“Stock Unit” means an Award denominated in units of Common Stock granted under Section 10 of the Plan.
“Substitute Awards” means Awards granted or shares of Common Stock issued by the Company in substitution or exchange for awards previously granted by an Acquired Entity.
“Successor Company” means the surviving company, the successor company, the acquiring company or its parent, as applicable, in connection with a Change of Control.
“Termination of Service,” unless the Plan Administrator determines otherwise with respect to an Award, means a termination of employment or service relationship with the Company or a Related Company for any reason, whether voluntary or involuntary, including by reason of death or Disability. Any question as to whether and when there has been a Termination of Service for the purposes of an Award and the cause of such Termination of Service shall be determined by the Company’s chief human resources officer or other person performing that function or, with respect to directors and executive officers, by the Board, whose determination shall be conclusive and binding. Transfer of a Participant’s employment or service relationship between the Company and any Related Company shall not be considered a Termination of Service for purposes of an Award. Unless the Board determines otherwise, a Termination of Service shall be deemed to occur if the Participant’s employment or service relationship is with an entity that has ceased to be a Related Company. A Participant’s change in status from an employee of the Company or a Related Company to a nonemployee director, consultant, advisor or independent contractor of the Company or a Related Company, or a change in status from a nonemployee director, consultant, advisor or independent contractor of the Company or a Related Company to an employee of the Company or a Related Company, shall not be considered a Termination of Service.
“Vesting Commencement Date” means the Grant Date or such other date selected by the Plan Administrator as the date from which an Award begins to vest.
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