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BAIYU Holdings, Inc. - Quarter Report: 2016 March (Form 10-Q)

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

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

 

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2016

 

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

 

For the transition period from ____________ to ____________

 

Commission file number:  001-36055

 

China Commercial Credit, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware   45-4077653

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

 

890 Yongkang Road, Wujang

Suzhou, Jiangsu Province

People’s Republic of China

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

+86-512 6396-0022

 (Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

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

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes ☒   No ☐

 

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

 

Large accelerated filer Accelerated filer
Non-accelerated filer Smaller reporting company

 

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

 

As of May 13, 2016, 13,398,654 shares of the Company’s Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share, were issued and outstanding.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

FORM 10-Q

 

INDEX

 

 

Page

Number

   
PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION  
     
Item 1. Financial Statements 1
     
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 35
     
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 50
     
Item 4. Controls and Procedures 50
     
PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION  
     
Item 1. Legal Proceedings 51
     
Item 1A. Risk Factors 52
     
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 52
     
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities 52
     
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 52
     
Item 5. Other Information 52
     
Item 6. Exhibits 53
     
SIGNATURES 54

 

 

 

 

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

 

   March 31,  
  

2016

(Unaudited)

   December 31, 2015 
ASSETS        
Cash  $250,267   $306,401 
Restricted cash   393,464    388,361 
Notes receivable   31,011    15,404 
Loans receivable, net of allowance for loan losses $56,144,821 and $55,595,653 for March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively   6,017,591    7,481,067 
Investment in direct financing lease, net of allowance for direct financing lease losses of $2,876,319 and $2,857,554 for March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively   1,185,173    1,177,442 
Property and equipment, net   156,516    126,120 
Intangible asset   3,310    4,435 
Guarantee paid  on behalf of guarantee service customers   12,573,082    14,031,603 
Guarantee paid on behalf of related party   626,897    622,807 
Other assets   247,534    293,200 
Total Assets  $21,484,845   $24,446,840 
           
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
Liabilities          
Short-term bank loans  $-   $2,618,729 
Deposits payable   1,077,628    1,070,598 
Unearned income from financial guarantee services and finance lease services   79,750    61,302 
Accrual for financial guarantee services   17 ,898,779    19,322,557 
Other current liabilities   81,480    182,242 
Income tax payable   141,043    126,485 
Deferred tax liability   191,880    204,266 
Total Liabilities   19,470,560    23,586,179 
           
Shareholders' Equity          
Series A Preferred Stock (par value $0.001 per share, 1,000,000 shares authorized at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively; nil and nil shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively)  $-   $- 
Series B Preferred Stock (par value $0.001 per share, 5,000,000 shares authorized at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively; nil and nil shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2015, respectively)   -    - 
Common stock (par value $0.001 per share, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 12,396,062 and 12,390,062 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively)   12,396    12,390 
Subscription receivable   (1,062)   (1,062)
Additional paid-in capital   59,700,778    59,698,864 
Statutory reserve   5,442,150    5,442,150 
Due from a non-controlling shareholder   (1,085,381)   (1,078,300)
Accumulated deficit   (67,124,044)   (68,254,520)
Accumulated other comprehensive income   5,069,448    5,041,139 
Total Shareholders’ Equity   2,014,285    860,661 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity  $21,484,845   $24,446,840 

 

* All of the VIEs’ assets can be used to settle obligations of their primary beneficiary. Liabilities recognized as a result of consolidating these VIEs do not represent additional claims on the Company’s general assets (Note 1).

 

See notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

 1 

 

 
CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/(LOSS) OPERATION

 

  

For the Three Months Ended

March 31,

 
  

2016

(Unaudited)

  

2015

(Unaudited)

 
Interest income          
Interests and fees on loans and direct financing lease  $232,046   $1,281,469 
Interests on deposits with banks   2,755    5,457 
Total interest and fees income   234,801    1,286,926 
           
Interest expense          
Interest expense on short-term bank loans   (30,057)   (173,166)
Net interest income   204,744    1,113,760 
           
Provision for loan losses   (102,632)   (213,103)
Provision for direct financing lease losses   -    (610,312)
Net interest income after provision for loan losses and financing lease loses   102,112    290,345 
           
Commissions and fees on financial guarantee services   7,891    49,855 

Reversal of/(provision for) financial guarantee services

   1,411,494    (278,898)
Commission and fees income/(loss) on guarantee services, net   1,419,385    (229,043)
           
Net Revenue   1,521,497    61,302 
           
Non-interest income          
Government incentive   -    - 
Other non-interest income   -    14,585 
Total  non-interest income   -    14,585 
           
Non-interest expense          
Salaries and employee surcharge   (102,060)   (144,925)
Rental expenses   (18,347)   (67,876)
Business taxes and surcharge   (16,755)   (56,458)
Other operating expenses   (253,372)   (828,330)
Total non-interest expense   (390,534)   (1,097,589)
           
Foreign exchange loss   (487)   (568)
           
Income/(Loss) Before Income Taxes   1,130,476    (1,022,270)
Income tax expense   -    (134,761)
Net Income/(Loss)   1,130,476    (1,157,031)
           
Earnings/(Loss) per Share- Basic and Diluted  $0.091   $(0.094)
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding-Basic and Diluted   12,395,205    12,255,062 
           
Net Income/(Loss)   1,130,476    (1,157,031)
Other comprehensive loss          
Foreign currency translation adjustment   (891,546)   204,709 
Comprehensive Income/(Loss)  $238,930   $(952,322)

 

See notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

 2 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

  

For The Three Months Ended

March 31,

 
   2016
(Unaudited)
   2015
(Unaudited)
 
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:        
Net income/(loss)  $1,130,476   $(1,157,031)
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:          
Depreciation and amortization   20,144    33,373 
Provision for loan losses   102,632    213,103 
Provision for direct financing lease losses   -    610,312 

Reversal of/(provision for) financial guarantee services

   (1,411,494)   278,898 
Income from disposal of property and equipment   -    (14,585)
Restricted shares issued to executive officers   1,920    - 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:          
Notes receivable   -    81,375 
Interest receivable   -    (456,359)
Prepaid taxes   -    (20,889)
Other assets   83,691    (148,164)
Deferred tax asset, net   -    134,761 
Unearned income from guarantee services and finance lease services   17,795    (53,924)
Deposit payable   -    (823,527)
Other current liabilities   (100,539)   (117,463)
Net Cash Used in Operating Activities   (155,375)   (1,440,120)
           
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:          
Originated loans disbursement to third parties   -    (17,290,541)
Loans collection from third parties   1,373,611    18,037,907 
Payment of loans on behalf of guarantees   (36,762)   (1,998,014)
Payment of loans on behalf of a related party   -    (263,687)
Collection from guarantees for loan paid on behalf of customers   1,411,494    1,943,762 
Collection of principal of finance lease, in installments   -    59,862 
Deposit released from banks for financial guarantee services   89,084    - 
Deposit paid to banks for financial guarantee services   (91,602)   - 
Purchases of property and equipment and intangible asset   (48,162)   (1,461)
Disposal of property and equipment   -    18,635 
Net Cash Provided by Investing Activities   2,697,663    506,463 
           
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:          
Repayment of short-term bank borrowings   (2,599,210)   (1,627,498)
Net Cash Used in Financing Activities   (2,599,210)   (1,627,498)
           
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Cash Equivalents   788    8,393 
           
Net Decrease In Cash and Cash Equivalents   (56,134)   (2,552,762)
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year   306,401    4,991,973 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year  $250,267   $2,439,211 
           
Supplemental Cash Flow Information          
Cash paid for interest expense  $30,481   $173,166 
Cash paid for income tax  $-   $20,889 

 

See notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

 3 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

1.ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPAL ACTITIVIES

 

China Commercial Credit, Inc. (“CCC” or “the Company”) is a holding company that was incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware on December 19, 2011.

 

Wujiang Luxiang Rural Microcredit Co., Ltd (“Wujiang Luxiang”) is a company established under the laws of the PRC on October 21, 2008 and its shareholders consist of 11 companies established under the laws of the People's Republic of China (“PRC”) and 1 PRC individual, Mr. Qin Huichun, the Company's former CEO (collectively, the "Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders"). The Company is a microcredit company primarily engaged in providing direct loans and financial guarantee services to small-to-medium sized enterprises (“SMEs”), farmers and individuals in Wujiang City, Jiangsu Province, PRC.

 

On August 7, 2012, CCC entered into certain share exchange agreements with 16 PRC individuals, each of whom is the sole shareholder of a British Virgin Island company (collectively “16 BVI entities”) and the 16 BVI entities. These 16 PRC individuals represent the ultimate owners of the Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders.

 

Upon completion of the share exchange, the 16 PRC individuals, through their respective BVI entities, acquired 7,270,920 shares of Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share (the "Common Stock") of CCC in exchange for their agreement to cause the Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders to enter into the Variable Interest Entity (the “VIE”) Agreements. As a result of the share exchange, the 16 BVI entities became CCC shareholders, who collectively owned approximately 90% of CCC’s total issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock at the time of the share exchange.

 

Since at the time of the share exchange neither CCC nor the 16 BVI entities had any operations and only a minor amount of net assets, the share exchange shall be considered as a capital transaction in substance, rather than a business combination.

 

The share exchange is recorded as a “reverse recapitalization” equivalent to the issuance of stocks to the 16 BVI entities for the net monetary assets of CCC. The accounting for the transaction is identical to a reverse acquisition, except that no goodwill is recorded.

 

Management of the Company looked through the 16 BVI entities and treated the share exchange as a reverse merger between CCC and Wujiang Luxiang for accounting purposes, even though the share exchange was between CCC and the 16 BVI entities, because of the following reasons: (i) neither CCC nor the 16 BVI entities had any operations and only a minor amount of net assets; (ii) the 16 PRC individual, who are the owners of the 16 BVI entities, are the ultimate owners of Wujiang Luxiang, and (iii) the sole purpose of the share exchange was to issue approximately 90% of pre-public offering CCC shares to the ultimate owners of Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders.

 

VIE AGREEMENTS WITH WUJIANG LUXIANG

 

Subsequent to the share exchange, on September 26, 2012, the Company through its indirectly wholly owned subsidiary, Wujiang Luxiang Information Technology Consulting Co. Ltd. (“WFOE”), entered into a series of VIE Agreements with Wujiang Luxiang and the Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders. The purpose of the VIE Agreements is solely to give WFOE the exclusive control over Wujiang Luxiang’s management and operations.

 

The significant terms of the VIE Agreements are summarized below:

 

Exclusive Business Cooperation Agreement

 

Pursuant to the Exclusive Business Cooperation Agreement between Wujiang Luxiang and WFOE, WFOE provides Wujiang Luxiang with technical support, consulting services and other management services relating to its day-to-day business operations and management, on an exclusive basis, utilizing its advantages in technology, human resources, and information. Additionally, Wujiang Luxiang grants an irrevocable and exclusive option to WFOE to purchase from Wujiang Luxiang any or all of its assets at the lowest purchase price permitted under PRC laws. For services rendered to Wujiang Luxiang by WFOE under the Agreement, the service fee Wujiang Luxiang is obligated to pay shall be calculated based on the time of services rendered multiplied by the corresponding rate, which is approximately equal to the net income of Wujiang Luxiang.

 

The Exclusive Business Cooperation Agreement shall remain in effect for ten years unless it is terminated by WFOE with 30-day prior notice. Wujiang Luxiang does not have the right to terminate the agreement unilaterally. WFOE may unilaterally extend the term of this agreement with prior written notice.

 

 4 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

1.ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPAL ACTITIVIES (CONTINUED)

 

Share Pledge Agreement

 

Under the Share Pledge Agreement between the Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders and WFOE, the 12 Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders pledged all of their equity interests in Wujiang Luxiang to WFOE to guarantee the performance of Wujiang Luxiang’s obligations under the Exclusive Business Cooperation Agreement.  Under the terms of the agreement, in the event that Wujiang Luxiang or its shareholders breach their respective contractual obligations under the Exclusive Business Cooperation Agreement, WFOE, as pledgee, will be entitled to certain rights, including, but not limited to, the right to collect dividends generated by the pledged equity interests.  The Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders also agreed that upon occurrence of any event of default, as set forth in the Share Pledge Agreement, WFOE is entitled to dispose of the pledged equity interest in accordance with applicable PRC laws.  The Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders further agree not to dispose of the pledged equity interests or take any actions that would prejudice WFOE’s interest.

 

Exclusive Option Agreement

 

Under the Exclusive Option Agreement, the Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders irrevocably granted WFOE (or its designee) an exclusive option to purchase, to the extent permitted under PRC law, once or at multiple times, at any time, part or all of their equity interests in Wujiang Luxiang.  The option price is equal to the capital paid in by the Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders subject to any appraisal or restrictions required by applicable PRC laws and regulations.

 

Power of Attorney

 

Under the Power of Attorney, the Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders authorize WFOE to act on their behalf as their exclusive agent and attorney with respect to all rights as shareholders, including but not limited to:  (a) attending shareholders' meetings; (b) exercising all the shareholder's rights, including voting, that shareholders are entitled to under the laws of China and the Articles of Association, including but not limited to the sale or transfer or pledge or disposition of shares in part or in whole; and (c) designating and appointing on behalf of shareholders the legal representative, the executive director, supervisor, the chief executive officer and other senior management members of Wujiang Luxiang. The Power of Attorney is coupled with an interest and shall be irrevocable and continuously valid from the date of execution, so long as the Wujiang Shareholder is a shareholder of the Company.

 

Timely Reporting Agreement

 

To ensure Wujiang Luxiang promptly provides all of the information that WFOE and the Company need to file various reports with the SEC, a Timely Reporting Agreement was entered between Wujiang Luxiang and the Company.

 

Under the Timely Reporting Agreement, Wujiang Luxiang agrees that it is obligated to make its officers and directors available to the Company and promptly provide all information required by the Company so that the Company can file all necessary SEC and other regulatory reports as required.

 

INCORPORATION OF PFL

 

On September 5, 2013, our wholly owned subsidiary, CCC International Investment Holding Ltd. (“CCC HK”), established Pride Financial Leasing (Suzhou) Co. Ltd. (“PFL”) in Jiangsu Province, China. PFL was expected to offer financial leasing of machinery and equipment, transportation vehicles, and medical devices to municipal government agencies, hospitals and SMEs in Jiangsu Province and beyond. As of March 31, 2016, PFL had two finance lease transactions.

 

 5 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

1.ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPAL ACTITIVIES (CONTINUED)

 

VIE AGREEMENTS WITH PRIDE INFORMATION

 

On February 19, 2014, WFOE entered into certain contractual arrangements with Mr. Huichun Qin and Pride Information Technology Co. Ltd. (“Pride Information”), a domestic entity established on February 19, 2014 and 100% owned by Mr. Qin. Pursuant to these contractual arrangements, WFOE shall have the power, rights and obligations equivalent in all material respects to those it would possess as the sole equity holder of Pride Information, including absolute control rights and the rights to the assets, property and revenue of Pride Information and as a result, approximately 100% of the net income of Pride Information will be paid as a service fee to WFOE.

 

The contractual arrangements between WFOE, Pride Information and its sole shareholder, Mr. Huichun Qin, have substantially the same terms as those between WFOE, Wujiang Luxiang and its shareholders.

 

On April 11, 2015, WFOE delivered a notice of termination to Pride Information. As a result, the contractual arrangements between WFOE, Pride Information and Mr. Qin were terminated effective on May 11, 2015 and WFOE no longer controls Pride Information.

 

Completion of the Internal Review

 

Based on the Chief Financial Officer’s review of the books and records of the Company, the Company has made a preliminary determination that following the close of the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2014, RMB 7 million (approximately $1.1 million) was transferred (the “Transfer at Issue”) from the bank account of WFOE, without authorization to the personal account of a former executive officer of the Company, who was still an executive officer at the time of the transfer. The funds were supposed to be used for the purpose of increasing the registered capital account of Wujiang Luxiang. The Company has sought return of the funds but to date has not recovered them. The Company’s Board of Directors explored all means, including legal avenues, to recover the funds and had formed a Special Committee to undertake an internal review of the circumstances surrounding the transfer.

 

On January 26, 2015, the Special Committee notified the Board of Directors that the internal review surrounding the Transfer at Issue was completed. The internal review confirmed that Mr. Qin transferred RMB 7 million (approximately $1.1 million) from WFOE’s bank account to his personal bank account. The internal review team was unable to interview Mr. Qin. The missing funds have not yet been recovered and the Company has engaged local PRC counsel to assist in the matter.

 

During the internal review, the independent counsel examined whether other transfers had occurred that were similar to the Transfer at Issue, in that the Company’s funds were transferred to a related party in a manner that was not consistent with the Company’s corporate governance and internal control procedures. The independent counsel identified four transfers made by Mr. Qin that were not consistent with the Company’s corporate governance and internal control procedures. With respect to the first three transfers, all funds were either returned to the Company or applied to the Company’s business. With respect to the fourth transfer, the funds were used to increase the registered capital of Wujiang Luxiang, a variable interest entity the Company controls via a series of contractual arrangements, as intended and reflected in an application made to the PRC government for such increase of registered capital.

 

The internal review indicated that the Company’s control deficiencies contributed to the Transfer at Issue. The internal review also found that, since the discovery of the Transfer at Issue, the Company has taken various steps to improve its internal controls and procedures, including implementing a new fund transfer approval policy and procedures and new standards of credit risk assessment which are carried out by the newly formed Loan Review Committee. The internal review conducted by independent counsel engaged by the Special Committee of the Board of Directors observed that such new controls and procedures appear to be much more thorough and comprehensive.

 

 6 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

2.SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

(a) Basis of presentation and principle of consolidation

 

The unaudited interim consolidated financial statements are prepared and presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”).

 

The interim financial information as of March 31, 2016 and for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 have been prepared without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and pursuant to Regulation S-X. Certain information and footnote disclosures, which are normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, have been omitted pursuant to those rules and regulations. The unaudited interim financial information should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and the notes thereto, included in the Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015 filed with the SEC on April 14, 2016.

 

In the opinion of management, all adjustments (which include normal recurring adjustments) necessary to present a fair statement of the Company’s financial position as of March 31, 2016, its results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, and its cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, as applicable, have been made. The unaudited interim results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the operating results for the full fiscal year or any future periods.

 

The unaudited interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business. The realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business are dependent on, among other things, the Company’s ability to operate profitably, to generate cash flows from operations, and to pursue financing arrangements to support its working capital requirements.

 

The Company has suffered an accumulated deficit of US$67,124,044 as of March 31, 2016. In addition, the Company had working capital (total consolidated current assets exceeding total consolidated current liabilities) of US$2,046,339 as of March 31, 2016. As of March 31, 2016, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of US$250,267, and total short-term borrowings of US$ nil.

 

These and other factors disclosed in this quarterly report raise substantial doubt as to the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Management believes that it has developed a liquidity plan, as summarized below, that, if executed successfully, will provide sufficient liquidity to meet the Company obligations for a reasonable period of time.

 

·Bank Financing and Other Financial Support

 

On October 30, 2015, the Company entered into a borrowing agreement with Agriculture Bank of China for a one-year bank facility of Rmb 29 million (or approximately $4 million). As of March 23, 2016, the Company has paid off all outstanding bank borrowings. The Company may use this bank credit line in the next few months and lend new direct loans to customers if the economic condition in Wujiang area improved. The credit line is guaranteed by Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders and can be renewed with a prior written application to Agriculture Bank of China.

 

Meanwhile, the Company is actively seeking other strategic investors with experience in lending business. If necessary, the shareholders of Wujiang Luxiang will contribute more capital into Wujiang Luxiang.

 

·Improvement in Working Capital Management

 

In order to meet the capital needs for our continued operations, we continue to use our best effort to improve our collection of loan receivable and interest receivable. We engaged four law firms, Jiangsu Zhenyuzhen Law Firm, Jiangsu Tianbian Law Firm, Jiangsu Mingren Law Firm and He-Partners Law Firm to represent us in the legal proceedings against the borrowers and their counter guarantors. Among them, He-Partners Law Firm, is one of the largest law firms in Suzhou City.

 

While management believes that the measures in the liquidity plan will be adequate to satisfy its liquidity and cash flow requirements for the twelve months ending March 31, 2017, there is no assurance that the liquidity plan will be successfully implemented. Failure to successfully implement the liquidity plan will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations and financial position, and may materially adversely affect its ability to continue as a going concern.

 

All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

 7 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

 

(b) Operating segments

 

ASC 280, Segment Reporting requires companies to report financial and descriptive information about their reportable operating segments, including segment profit or loss, certain specific revenue and expense items, and segment assets. The Company has no reportable segments. All of the Company's activities are interrelated, and each activity is dependent and assessed based on how each of the activities of the Company supports the others. For example, lending is dependent upon the ability of the Company to fund itself with registered capital and other borrowings and manage interest rate and credit risk.

 

The Company has only one reportable segment, which is to provide financial services in the PRC domestic market, primarily in Wujiang City, Jiangsu Province. The Company’s chief operating decision-maker (“CODM”) has been identified as the Chief Executive Officer, who reviews operating results to make decisions about allocating resources and assessing performance for both the direct lending and guarantee business and the anticipated financial leasing business. The Company’s net revenues are all generated from customers in the PRC. Hence, the Company operates and manages its business without segments. For the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, there was no one customer that accounted for more than 10% of the Company's revenue.

 

(c) Cash

 

Cash consists of bank deposits with original maturities of three months or less, which are unrestricted as to withdrawal and use The Company maintains accounts at banks and has not experienced any losses from such concentrations.

 

(d) Restricted cash

 

Restricted cash represents cash pledged with banks as guarantor deposit for the guarantee business customers. The banks providing loans to the Company’s guarantee service customers generally require the Company, as the guarantor of the loans, to pledge a cash deposit of 10% to 20% of the guaranteed amount to an escrow account and is restricted from use. The deposits are released after the guaranteed bank loans are paid off and the Company’s guarantee obligation expires which is usually within 12 months.

 

(e) Loans receivable, net

 

Loans receivable primarily represent loan amount due from customers. The management has the intent and ability to hold such receivable for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff. Loans receivable are recorded at unpaid principal balances, net of allowance for loan losses that reflects the Company’s best estimate of the amounts that will not be collected. Loan origination and commitment fees and certain direct loan origination costs collected from customers are directly recorded in current year interests and fees on loans. The loans receivable portfolio consists of corporate loans and personal loans (Note 6). The Company does not charge loan origination and commitment fees.

 

(f) Allowance for loan losses

 

The allowance for loan losses is increased by charges to income and decreased by charge offs (net of recoveries). Recoveries represent subsequent collection of amounts previously charged-off. The increase in allowance for loan losses is the netting effect of “reversal” and “provision” for both business and personal loans. If the ending balance of the allowance for loan losses after any charge offs (net of recoveries) is less than the beginning balance, it will be recorded as a “reversal” if it is larger, it will be recorded as a “provision” in the allowance for loan loss. The netting amount of the “reversal” and the “provision” is presented in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

 

The Company recognizes a charge-off when management determines that full repayment of a loan is not probable. The primary factor in making that determination is the potential outcome of a lawsuit against the delinquent debtor. The Company will recognize a charge-off when the Company loses contact with the delinquent borrower for more than six months or when the court rules against the Company to seize the collateral asset of the delinquent debt from either the guarantor or borrower.

 

The allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level believed to be reasonable by management to absorb probable losses inherent in the portfolio as of each balance sheet date. The allowance is based on factors such as the size and current risk characteristics of the portfolio, an assessment of individual loan and actual loss, delinquency, and/or risk rating record within the portfolio (Note 7). The Company evaluates its allowance for loan losses on a quarterly basis or more often as necessary.

 

 8 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

 

(g) Interest receivable

 

Interest on loans receivable is accrued and credited to income as earned. The Company determines a loan past due status by the number of days that have elapsed since a borrower has failed to make a contractual loan payment. Accrual of interest is generally discontinued when either (i) reasonable doubt exists as to the full, timely collection of interest or principal or (ii) when a loan becomes past due by more than 90 days. Additionally, any previously accrued but uncollected interest is reversed. Subsequent recognition of income occurs only to the extent payment is received, subject to management’s assessment of the collectability of the remaining interest and principal. Loans are generally restored to an accrual status when it is no longer delinquent and collectability of interest and principal is no longer in doubt and past due interest is recognized at that time.

 

The interest reversed due to the above reason was $3,727,830 and $2,593,611 as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

 

(h) Property and equipment

 

The property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. The depreciation is computed on a straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets with 5% salvage value. Estimated useful lives of property and equipment are stated in Note 12.

 

The Company eliminates the cost and related accumulated depreciation of assets sold or otherwise retired from the accounts and includes any gain or loss in the statement of income. The Company charges maintenance, repairs and minor renewals directly to expenses as incurred; major additions and betterment to equipment are capitalized.

 

(i) Impairment of long-lived assets

 

The Company applies the provisions of ASC No. 360 Sub topic 10, "Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets"(ASC 360- 10) issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB"). ASC 360-10 requires that long-lived assets be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable through the estimated undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the assets. Whenever any such impairment exists, an impairment loss will be recognized for the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value.

 

The Company tests long-lived assets, including property and equipment and finite lived intangible assets, for impairment at least annually or more frequently upon the occurrence of an event or when circumstances indicate that the net carrying amount is greater than its fair value. Assets are grouped and evaluated at the lowest level for their identifiable cash flows that are largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets. The Company considers historical performance and future estimated results in its evaluation of potential impairment and then compares the carrying amount of the asset to the future estimated cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset. If the carrying amount of the asset exceeds estimated expected undiscounted future cash flows, the Company measures the amount of impairment by comparing the carrying amount of the asset to its fair value. The estimation of fair value is generally measured by discounting expected future cash flows as the rate the Company utilizes to evaluate potential investments. The Company estimates fair value based on the information available in making whatever estimates, judgments and projections are considered necessary. There were no impairment losses in the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

 9 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

 

(j) Fair values of financial instruments

 

ASC Topic 825, Financial Instruments (“Topic 825”) requires disclosure of fair value information of financial instruments, whether or not recognized in the balance sheets, for which it is practicable to estimate that value. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on estimates using present value or other valuation techniques. Those techniques are significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate and estimates of future cash flows. In that regard, the derived fair value estimates cannot be substantiated by comparison to independent markets and, in many cases, could not be realized in immediate settlement of the instruments. Topic 825 excludes certain financial instruments and all nonfinancial assets and liabilities from its disclosure requirements. Accordingly, the aggregate fair value amounts do not represent the underlying value of the Company.

 

Level 1 inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.
   
Level 2 inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the assets or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instruments
   
Level 3 inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value.

 

As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, financial instruments of the Company primarily comprise of cash, restricted cash, notes receivable, loan receivables, other receivable, short-term bank loans, deposits payable and accrued expenses, which were carried at cost on the consolidated balance sheets, and carrying amounts approximated their fair values because of their generally short maturities.

 

(k) Foreign currency transaction and translation 

 

The reporting currency of the Company is United States Dollars (“US$”), which is also the Company’s functional currency. The PRC subsidiaries and VIEs maintain their books and records in its local currency, the Renminbi Yuan (“RMB”), which is their functional currencies as being the primary currency of the economic environment in which these entities operate.

 

For financial reporting purposes, the financial statements of the Company prepared using RMB, are translated into the Company’s reporting currency, United States Dollars, at the exchange rates quoted by www.oanda.com. Assets and liabilities are translated using the exchange rate at each balance sheet date. Revenue and expenses are translated using average rates prevailing during each reporting period, and shareholders’ equity is translated at historical exchange rates. Adjustments resulting from the translation are recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income in shareholders’ equity.

 

   March 31,
2016
   December 31,
2015
 
Balance sheet items, except for equity accounts   6.4494    6.4917 
           

   For the three months ended
March 31,
 
   2016   2015 
Items in the statements of income and comprehensive income, and statements of cash flows   6.5405    6.1444 
           

Transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency are translated into prevailing functional currency at the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. The resulting exchange differences are included in the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.

 

(l) Use of estimates

 

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. On an ongoing basis, management reviews these estimates using the currently available information. Changes in facts and circumstances may cause the Company to revise its estimates. Significant accounting estimates reflected in the financial statements include: (i) the allowance for doubtful debts; (ii) estimates of losses on unexpired loan contracts and guarantee service contracts; (iii) accrual of estimated liabilities; (iv) useful lives of long-lived assets; (v) the impairment of long-lived assets; (vi) the valuation allowance of deferred tax assets; and (vii) contingencies and litigation.

 

 10 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

 

(m) Revenue recognition

 

Revenue is recognized when there are probable economic benefits to the Company and when the revenue can be measured reliably, on the following:

 

  Interest income on loans. Interest on loan receivables is accrued monthly in accordance with their contractual terms and recorded in accrued interest receivable. The Company does not charge prepayment penalty from customers. Additionally, any previously accrued but uncollected interest is discontinued of accrual and reversed, when either (i) reasonable doubt exists as to the full, timely collection of interest or principal or (ii) when a loan becomes past due by more than 90 days.
     
  Commission on guarantee service. The Company receives the commissions from guarantee services in full at inception and records as unearned income before amortizing it throughout the period of guarantee.
     
  Income on direct financing lease. The financing agreements are classified as direct financing lease as prescribed by the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB Codification"). Revenues representing the capitalized costs of the investment are recognized as income upon inception of the leases. The portion of revenues representing the difference between the gross investment in the lease (the sum of the minimum lease payments and the guaranteed residual value, if any) and the sum of the present value of the two components is recorded as unearned income and amortized over the lease term
     
    Taxes assessed by governmental authorities that are directly imposed on revenue-producing transactions between the Company and its customers (which may include, but are not limited to, sales, use, value added and some excise taxes) are excluded from revenues.
     
    Lessees are responsible for all taxes, insurance and maintenance costs.
     
  Non-interest income. Non-interest income mainly includes rental income from the sub-leasing of certain of the Company’s leased office space to third parties and income from disposal of property and equipment

 

(n) Financial guarantee service contract

 

Financial guarantee service contracts provides guarantee which protects the holder of a debt obligation against default. Pursuant to such guarantee, the Company makes payments if the obligor responsible for making payments fails to do so as scheduled.

 

The contract amounts reflect the extent of involvement the Company has in the guarantee transaction and also represent the Company’s maximum exposure to credit loss in its guarantee business.

 

 11 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

 

(n) Financial guarantee service contract (continued)

 

The Company is a party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. Financial instruments representing credit risk are as follows:

 

   March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31,
2015
 
Guarantee  $11,729,864   $11,653,342 

 

A provision for possible loss to be absorbed by the Company for the financial guarantee it provides is recorded as an accrued liability when the guarantees are made and recorded as “Accrual for financial guarantee services” on the consolidated balance sheets. This liability represents probable losses and is increased or decreased by accruing a “(Under)/over provision on financial guarantee services” against the income of commissions and fees on guarantee services reserve.

 

This is done throughout the life of the guarantee, as necessary when additional relevant information becomes available. The methodology used to estimate the liability for possible guarantee loss considers the guarantee contract amount and a variety of factors, which include, depending on the counterparty, latest financial position and performance of the borrowers, actual defaults, estimated future defaults, historical loss experience, estimated value of collaterals or guarantees the customers or third parties offered, and other economic conditions such as the economy trend of the area and the country. The estimates are based upon currently available information.

 

Based on the past experience and expected customer default status of financial guarantee services, the Company estimates the probable loss for immature financial guarantee services to be approximately 50% of contract amount as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, and made a provision of $5,728,624 and $5,691,253 as of these two reporting dates, respectively, for possible credit risk of its guarantees. In addition, the Company accrued specific provisions for repayment on behalf of guarantee customers who defaulted on their loans, in the amount of $12,170,155 and $13,631,304 as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the management charged off specific provision for one and one customer in the amount of $119,228 and $262,422, considering remote collectability from the customers. The total accrual for financial guarantee services amounted to $17,898,779 and $19,322,557 as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The Company reviews the provision on a quarterly basis.

 

(o) Non-interest expenses

 

Non-interest expenses primarily consist of salary and benefits for employees, traveling cost, entertainment expenses, depreciation of equipment, office rental expenses, professional service fee, office supplies, etc.

 

(p) Income tax

 

Current income tax expenses are provided for in accordance with the laws of the relevant taxing authorities. As part of the process of preparing financial statements, the Company is required to estimate its income taxes in each of the jurisdictions in which it operates. The Company accounts for income taxes using the liability approach. Under this method, deferred income taxes are recognized for tax consequences in future years of differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements at each year-end and tax loss carry forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates applicable for the differences that are expected to affect taxable income.

 

(q) Comprehensive income

 

Comprehensive income includes net income and foreign currency adjustments. Comprehensive income is reported in the statements of operations and comprehensive income.

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income, as presented on the balance sheets are the cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments.

 

 12 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

 

(r) Share-based awards

 

Share-based awards granted to the Company's employees are measured at fair value on grant date and share-based compensation expense is recognized (i) immediately at the grant date if no vesting conditions are required, or (ii) using the accelerated attribution method, net of estimated forfeitures, over the requisite service period. The fair value of restricted shares is determined with reference to the fair value of the underlying shares.

 

At each date of measurement, the Company reviews internal and external sources of information to assist in the estimation of various attributes to determine the fair value of the share-based awards granted by the Company, including but not limited to the fair value of the underlying shares, expected life, expected volatility and expected forfeiture rates. The Company is required to consider many factors and make certain assumptions during this assessment. If any of the assumptions used to determine the fair value of the share-based awards changes significantly, share-based compensation expense may differ materially in the future from that recorded in the current reporting period.

 

(s) Operating leases

 

The Company leases its principal office under a lease agreement that qualifies as an operating lease. The Company records the rental under the lease agreement in the operating expense when incurred.

 

(t) Commitments and contingencies

 

In the normal course of business, the Company is subject to loss contingencies, such as legal proceedings and claims arising out of its business, that cover a wide range of matters, including, among others, government investigations and tax matters. In accordance with ASC No. 450 Sub topic 20, “Loss Contingencies”, the Company records accruals for such loss contingencies when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated.

 

(u) Recently issued accounting standards

 

In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). Under the new guidance, lessees will be required recognize the following for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases) at the commencement date: 1) A lease liability, which is a lessee's obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis; and 2) A right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee's right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. The new lease guidance simplified the accounting for sale and leaseback transactions primarily because lessees must recognize lease assets and lease liabilities. Lessees will no longer be provided with a source of off-balance sheet financing. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those years. The Company is evaluating this ASU and has not determined the effect of this standard on its ongoing financial reporting.

 

 13 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

3. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES AND OTHER CONSOLIDATION MATTERS

 

On September 26, 2012, the Company, through WFOE, entered into a series of contractual arrangements, also known as “VIE Agreements” with Wujiang Luxiang and the Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders.

 

On February 19, 2014, WFOE entered into certain contractual arrangements, having substantially the same terms as those of the VIE Agreements with Pride Information and its sole shareholder, Mr. Huichun Qin. These VIE Agreements were terminated on May 11, 2015 and will be accounted for as a deconsolidation. Pride Information did not have any business since its inception. (See Note 1)

 

As of March 31, 2016, the Company had only one VIE.

 

The significant terms of the VIE Agreements are summarized in Note 1.

 

VIEs are entities that have either a total equity investment that is insufficient to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support, or whose equity investors lack the characteristics of a controlling financial interest, such as through voting rights, right to receive the expected residual returns of the entity or obligation to absorb the expected losses of the entity. The variable interest holder, if any, that has a controlling financial interest in a VIE is deemed to be the primary beneficiary and must consolidate the VIE. WFOE is deemed to have a controlling financial interest and be the primary beneficiary of the entities mentioned in Note 1 above, because it has both of the following characteristics:

 

  1. power to direct activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance, and

 

  2. obligation to absorb losses of the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE or right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE.

 

In addition, as all of these contractual arrangements are governed by PRC law and provide for the resolution of disputes through either arbitration or litigation in the PRC, they would be interpreted in accordance with PRC law and any disputes would be resolved in accordance with PRC legal procedures. The legal environment in the PRC is not as developed as in other jurisdictions, such as the United States. As a result, uncertainties in the PRC legal system could further limit the Company’s ability to enforce these contractual arrangements. Furthermore, these contracts may not be enforceable in China if PRC government authorities or courts take a view that such contracts contravene PRC laws and regulations or are otherwise not enforceable for public policy reasons. In the event the Company is unable to enforce these contractual arrangements, it may not be able to exert effective control over Wujiang Luxiang and Pride Information and its ability to conduct its business may be materially and adversely affected.

 

All of the Company’s main current operations are conducted through Wujiang Luxiang and PFL. Current regulations in China permit Wujiang Luxiang and PFL to pay dividends to us only out of its accumulated distributable profits, if any, determined in accordance with their articles of association and PRC accounting standards and regulations. The ability of Wujiang Luxiang and PFL to make dividends and other payments to the Company may be restricted by factors including changes in applicable foreign exchange and other laws and regulations.

 

The following financial statement amounts and balances of the VIE were included in the unaudited consolidated financial statements as of March 31, 2016 and audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2015 and for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015:

  

   March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31, 2015 
Total assets  $19,942,142   $22,920,730 
Total liabilities  $19,685,755   $23,932,841 

 

 

   For the three months ended March 31, 
   2016
(Unaudited)
   2015
(Unaudited)
 
Revenue  $231,074   $1,292,132 
Net income/(loss)  $(1,220,370)  $(209,990)

 

 14 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

3. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES AND OTHER CONSOLIDATION MATTERS (CONTINUED)

 

All of the Company’s current revenue is generated in RMB. Any future restrictions on currency exchanges may limit our ability to use net revenues generated in RMB to make dividends or other payments in US$ or fund possible business activities outside China.

 

Foreign currency exchange regulation in China is primarily governed by the following rules:

 

  Foreign Exchange Administration Rules (1996), as amended in August 2008, or the Exchange Rules;

 

  Administration Rules of the Settlement, Sale and Payment of Foreign Exchange (1996), or the Administration Rules.

 

Under the Administration Rules, RMB is freely convertible for current account items, including the distribution of dividends, interest payments, trade and service related foreign exchange transactions, but not for capital account items, such as direct investments, loans, repatriation of investments and investments in securities outside of China, unless the prior approval of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (“SAFE”) is obtained and prior registration with the SAFE is made. Foreign-invested enterprises like WFOE that need foreign currency for the distribution of profits to their shareholders may validate payment from their foreign currency accounts or purchase and pay foreign currencies at the designated foreign exchange banks to their foreign shareholders by producing board resolutions for such profit distribution. Based on their needs, foreign invested enterprises are permitted to open foreign currency settlement accounts for current account receipts and payments of foreign exchange along with specialized accounts for capital account receipts and payments of foreign currency at certain designated foreign exchange banks.

 

 15 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

4.RISKS

 

(a) Credit risk

 

Credit risk is one of the most significant risks for the Company’s business. Credit risk exposures arise principally in lending activities, finance lease and financial guarantee activities which is an off-balance sheet financial instrument.

 

Credit risk is controlled by the application of credit approvals, limits and monitoring procedures. The Company manages credit risk through in-house research and analysis of the Chinese economy and the underlying obligors and transaction structures. To minimize credit risk, the Company requires collateral in the form of rights to cash, securities or property and equipment.

 

The Company identifies credit risk collectively based on industry, geography and customer type. This information is monitored regularly by management.

 

1.1 Lending activities

 

In measuring the credit risk of lending loans to corporate customers, the Company mainly reflects the “probability of default” by the customer on its contractual obligations and considers the current financial position of the customer and the exposures to the customer and its likely future development. For individual customers, the Company uses standard approval procedures to manage credit risk for personal loans.

 

In addition, the Company calculates the provision amount as below:

 

  1. General Reserve - is based on total loan receivable balance and to be used to cover unidentified probable loan loss. According to management assessment, the General Reserve is required  to be no less than 1% of total loan receivable balance.

 

  2. Special Reserve - is fund set aside covering losses due to risks related to a particular country, region, industry, company or type of loans. The reserve rate could be decided based on management estimate of loan collectability. The Loan portfolio did not include any loans outside of the PRC.

 

  3. Specific Reserve – is based on a loan by loan basis covering losses due to risks related to the ability and intension of repayment of each customer. The reserve rate was individually assessed based on management estimate of loan collectability.

 

 16 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

4. RISKS (CONTINUED)

 

1.2 Guarantee activities

 

The off-balance sheet commitments arising from guarantee activities carry similar credit risk to loans and the Company takes a similar approach on risk management.

 

Off-balance sheet commitments with credit exposures are also assessed and categorized with reference to the Guideline and include additional amounts on a specific basis.

 

(b) Liquidity risk

 

The Company is also exposed to liquidity risk which is risk that it is unable to provide sufficient capital resources and liquidity to meet its commitments and business needs. Liquidity risk is controlled by the application of financial position analysis and monitoring procedures. When necessary, the Company will turn to other financial institutions and the owners to obtain short-term funding to meet the liquidity shortage.

 

(c) Foreign currency risk

 

A majority of the Company’s operating activities and a significant portion of the Company’s assets and liabilities are denominated in RMB, which is not freely convertible into foreign currencies. All foreign exchange transactions take place either through the Peoples’ Bank of China (“PBOC”) or other authorized financial institutions at exchange rates quoted by PBOC. Approval of foreign currency payments by the PBOC or other regulatory institutions requires submitting a payment application form together with suppliers' invoices and signed contracts. The value of RMB is subject to changes in central government policies and to international economic and political developments affecting supply and demand in the China Foreign Exchange Trading System market.

 

(d) Concentration risk

 

As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company held cash of $250,267 and $306,401, respectively, that is uninsured by the government authority.

 

To limit exposure to credit risk relating to deposits, the Company primarily places cash deposits only with large financial institutions in the PRC with acceptable credit ratings.

 

The Company’s operations are carried out in the PRC. Accordingly, the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations may be influenced by the political, economic and legal environments in the PRC as well as by the general state of the PRC’s economy. The business may be influenced by changes in governmental policies with respect to laws and regulations, anti-inflationary measures, currency conversion and remittance abroad, and rates and methods of taxation, among other things.

 

No customer accounted for more than 10% of total loan balance as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

 

5.RESTRICTED CASH

 

Restricted cash represents cash pledged with banks as guarantor deposit for the Company's guarantee service customers, amounting to $0.4 million and $0.4 million as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The banks providing loans to the Company’s guarantee service customers generally require the Company, as the guarantor of the loans, to pledge a cash deposit usually in the range of 10% to 30% of the guaranteed amount. The deposits are released after the guaranteed bank loans are paid off and the Company’s guarantee obligation expires which is usually within 12 months.

 

At the same time, the Company requires the guarantee service customers to make a deposit to the Company of the same amount as the deposit the Company pledged to the banks for their loans. The Company recorded the deposit received as “deposits payable” on the unaudited consolidated balance sheet. The deposit is returned to the customer after the customer repays the bank loan and the Company’s guarantee obligation expires. 

 

 17 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

6.LOANS RECEIVABLE, NET

 

The interest rates on loan issued ranged between 9.6%~ 19.44% and 9.6%~ 19.44% % for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

6.1 Loans receivable consist of the following:

 

   March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31, 2015 
         
Business loans  $39,524,627   $40,498,813 
Personal loans   22,637,785    22,577,907 
Total Loans receivable   62,162,412    63,076,720 
Allowance for loan losses          
Collectively assessed   (56,144,821)   (55,595,653)
Individually assessed   -    - 
Allowance for loan losses   (56,144,821)   (55,595,653)
Loans receivable, net  $6,017,591   $7,481,067 

 

The Company originates loans to customers located primarily in Wujiang City, Jiangsu Province. This geographic concentration of credit exposes the Company to a higher degree of risk associated with this economic region.

 

All loans are short-term loans that the Company has made to either business or individual customers. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company had 66 and 68 business loan customers, and 44 and 47 personal loan customers, respectively. Most loans are either guaranteed by a third party whose financial strength is assessed by the Company to be sufficient or secured by collateral. Allowance on loan losses are estimated loan by loan on a quarterly basis based on an assessment of specific evidence indicating doubtful collection, historical experience, loan balance aging and prevailing economic conditions.

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, a provision of $102,632 and $213,103 were charged to the consolidated statement of income, respectively. No Write-offs against allowances have occurred for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Interest on loans receivable is accrued and credited to income as earned. The Company determines a loan's past due status by the number of days that have elapsed since a borrower has failed to make a contractual loan payment. Accrual of interest is generally discontinued when either (i) reasonable doubt exists as to the full, timely collection of interest or principal or (ii) when a loan becomes past due by more than 90 days.

 

The following table presents nonaccrual loans with aging over 90 days by classes of loan portfolio as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively:

 

   March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31, 2015 
         
Business loans  $21,317,858   $21,907,409 
Personal loans   11,139,107    10,211,501 
   $32,456,965   $32,118,910 

 

 18 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

6. LOANS RECEIVABLE, NET (CONTINUED)

 

The following table represents the aging of loans as of March 31, 2016 by type of loan:

 

   1-89 Days
Past Due
(Unaudited)
   90 - 179 Days Past Due
(Unaudited)
   180 - 365 Days Past Due
(Unaudited)
   Over 1 year Past Due
(Unaudited)
   Total Past Due
(Unaudited)
   Current
(Unaudited)
   Total Loans
(Unaudited)
 
                             
Business loans  $361,277   $62,022   $8,848,998    12,406,838   $21,679,135   $17,845,492   $39,524,627 
Personal loans   458,806    930,326    5,611,418    4,597,363    11,597,913    11,039,872    22,637,785 
                                    
   $820,083   $992,348   $14,460,416    17,004,201   $33,277,048   $28,885,364   $62,162,412 

 

The following table represents the aging of loans as of December 31, 2015 by type of loan:

 

   1-89 Days
Past Due
   90 - 179 Days Past Due   180 - 365 Days Past Due   Over 1 year Past Due   Total Past Due   Current   Total Loans 
                             
Business loans  $77,021   $4,313,200   $7,555,846    10,038,363   $21,984,430   $18,514,383   $40,498,813 
Personal loans   924,257    1,848,514    3,749,403    4,613,583    11,135,758    11,442,149    22,577,907 
                                    
   $1,001,278   $6,161,714   $11,305,249    14,651,947   $33,120,188   $29,956,532   $63,076,720 

 

6.2 Analysis of loans by credit quality indicator

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s loan portfolio by credit quality indicator as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively:

 

 19 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

6. LOANS RECEIVABLE, NET (CONTINUED)

 

Five Categories  March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   %   December 31, 2015   % 
                 
Pass  $-    -   $-    - 
Special mention   -    -    -    - 
Substandard   77,527    0.1%   2,695,750    4.3%
Doubtful   12,112,708    19.5%   9,841,658    15.6%
Loss   49,972,177    80.4%   50,539,312    80.1%
Total  $62,162,412    100%  $63,076,720    100%

 

6.3 Analysis of loans by collateral

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s loan portfolio by collateral as of March 31, 2016:

 

   March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
     
   Business Loans   Personal Loans   Total 
Guarantee backed loans  $37,124,510   $21,602,022   $58,726,532 
Pledged assets backed  loans   2,400,117    1,035,763    3,435,880 
Collateral backed loans   -    -    - 
   $39,524,627   $22,637,785   $62,162,412 

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s loan portfolio by collateral as of December 31, 2015:

 

   December 31, 2015     
   Business Loans   Personal Loans   Total 
Guarantee backed loans  $37,498,183   $21,510,390   $59,008,573 
Pledged assets backed  loans   3,000,630    1,067,517    4,068,147 
Collateral backed loans   -    -    - 
   $40,498,813   $22,577,907   $63,076,720 

 

Collateral Backed Loans

 

A collateral backed loan is a loan in which the borrower puts up an asset under their ownership, possession or control, as collateral for the loan. An asset usually is land use rights, inventory, equipment or buildings. The loan is secured against the collateral and we do not take physical possession of the collateral at the time the loan is made. We will verify ownership of the collateral and then register the collateral with the appropriate government agencies to complete the secured transaction. In the event that the borrower defaults, we can then take possession of the collateral asset and sell it to recover the outstanding balance owed. If the sale proceed of the collateral asset is not sufficient to pay off the debt, we will file a lawsuit against the borrower and seek payment for the remaining balance.

 

Pledged Asset Backed Loans

 

Pledged loans are loans with pledged assets. The pledged assets are usually certificates of deposit. Lenders take physical possession of the pledged assets at the time the loan is made and do not need to register them with government agencies to secure the loan. If the borrower defaults, we can sell the assets to recover the outstanding balance owed.

 

Both collateral loans and pledged loans are considered secured loans. The amount of a loan that lenders provide depends on the value of the collateral pledged. Beginning 2011, the Company does not provide unsecured loans.

 

Guarantee Backed Loans

 

A guaranteed loan is a loan guaranteed by a third party who is usually a corporation or high net worth individual. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, guaranteed loans make up 94.5% and 93.6% of our direct loan portfolio, respectively.

 

 20 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

7.ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES

 

The allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level considered adequate to provide for losses that can be reasonably anticipated. Management performs a quarterly evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance. The allowance is based on the Company’s past loan loss history, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay, the estimated value of any underlying collateral, composition of the loan portfolio, current economic conditions and other relevant factors. This evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates that may be susceptible to significant revision as more information becomes available.

 

The allowance is calculated at portfolio-level since our loans portfolio is typically of smaller balance homogenous loans and is collectively evaluated for impairment. Additionally, the management also reviewed the portfolio on a loan by loan basis and individually evaluated for impairment if any..

 

For the purpose of calculating portfolio-level reserves, we have grouped our loans into two portfolio segments: Corporate and Personal. The allowance consists of the combination of a quantitative assessment component based on statistical models, a retrospective evaluation of actual loss information to loss forecasts, value of collaterals and could include a qualitative component based on management judgment.

 

In estimating the probable loss of the loan portfolio, the Company also considers qualitative factors such as current economic conditions and/or events in specific industries and geographical areas, including unemployment levels, trends in real estate values, peer comparisons, and other pertinent factors such as regulatory guidance. Finally, as appropriate, the Company also considers individual borrower circumstances and the condition and fair value of the loan collateral, if any.

 

In addition, the Company calculates the provision amount as below:

 

  1. General Reserve - is based on total loan receivable balance and to be used to cover unidentified probable loan loss. The management assessed the General Reserve is required  to be no less than 1% of total loan receivable balance.

 

  2. Special Reserve - is fund set aside covering losses due to risks related to a particular country, region, industry, company or type of loans. The reserve rate could be decided based on management estimate of loan collectability. The Loan portfolio did not include any loans outside of the PRC.

 

While management uses the best information available to make loan loss allowance evaluations, adjustments to the allowance may be necessary based on changes in economic and other conditions or changes in accounting guidance.

 

The following tables present the activity in the allowance for loan losses and related recorded investment in loans receivable by classes of the loans individually and collectively evaluated for impairment as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015:

 

   Business Loans
(Unaudited)
   Personal Loans
(Unaudited)
   Total
(Unaudited)
 
For the three months ended March 31, 2016               
Beginning balance  $35,083,738   $20,511,915   $55,595,653 
Charge-offs   -    -    - 
Recoveries   (80,014)   -    (80,014)
Provisions   495,683    133,499    629,182 
Ending balance   35,499,407    20,645,414    56,144,821 
Ending balance: individually evaluated for impairment   -    -    - 
Ending balance: collectively evaluated for impairment  $35,499,407   $20,645,414   $56,144,821 

 

 21 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

7. ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES (CONTINUED)

 

   Business Loans
(Unaudited)
   Personal Loans
(Unaudited)
   Total
(Unaudited)
 
For the three months ended March 31, 2015            
Beginning balance  $14,836,650   $9,654,071   $24,490,721 
Charge-offs   -    -    - 
Recoveries   -    (695,456)   (695,456)
Provisions   989,156    -    989,156 
Ending balance   15,825,806    8,958,615    24,784,421 
Ending balance: individually evaluated for impairment   -    -    - 
Ending balance: collectively evaluated for impairment  $15,825,806   $8,958,615   $24,784,421 

 

The following table presents the classes of the loan portfolio summarized by the aggregate pass rating and the classified ratings of special mention, substandard, doubtful and loss within the Company's internal risk rating system as of March 31, 2016:

 

   Pass
(Unaudited)
   Special Mention
(Unaudited)
   Substandard
(Unaudited)
   Doubtful
(Unaudited)
   Loss
(Unaudited)
   Total
(Unaudited)
 
                         
Business loans  $         -   $         -   $-   $8,050,438   $31,474,189   $39,524,627 
Personal loans   -    -    77,527    4,062,270    18,497,988    22,637,785 
   $-   $-   $77,527   $12,112,708   $49,972,177   $62,162,412 

 

The following table presents the classes of the loan portfolio summarized by the aggregate pass rating and the classified ratings of special mention, substandard, doubtful and loss within the Company's internal risk rating system as of December 31, 2015:

 

   Pass   Special Mention   Substandard   Doubtful   Loss   Total 
                         
Business loans  $    -   $       -   $2,618,729   $6,103,192   $31,776,892   $40,498,813 
Personal loans   -    -    77,021    3,738,466    18,762,420    22,577,907 
   $-   $-   $2,695,750   $9,841,658   $50,539,312   $63,076,720 

 

 22 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

8.LOAN IMPAIRMENT

 

A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect the scheduled payments of principal or interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Factors considered by management in determining impairment include payment status, collateral value and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. Management determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s prior payment record and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. Impairment is measured on a loan by loan basis for corporate and personal loans by either the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent.

 

An allowance for loan losses is established for an impaired loan if its carrying value exceeds its estimated fair value. Currently, estimated fair values of substantially all of the Company’s impaired loans are measured based on the estimated fair value of the loan’s collateral which approximates to the carrying value due to the short term nature of the loans.

 

Loans with modified terms are classified as troubled debt restructurings if the Company grants such borrowers concessions and it is deemed that those borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty. Concessions granted under a troubled debt restructuring generally involve a temporary below market rate reduction in interest rate or an extension of a loan’s stated maturity date. Non-accrual troubled debt restructurings are restored to accrual status if principal and interest payments, under the modified terms, are current for six consecutive months after modification. Loans classified as troubled debt restructurings are designated as impaired.

 

Even though the Company allows a one-time loan extension with a period up to the original loan period, which is usually twelve months. Such extension is not considered to be a troubled debt restructuring because the Company does not grant a concession to borrowers. The principal of the loan remains the same and the interest rate is fixed at the current interest rate at the time of extension. Therefore, there were no troubled debt restructurings during the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

9.GUARANTEE PAID ON BEHALF OF GUARANTEE CUSTOMERS

 

   March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31, 2015 
Guarantee paid on behalf of guarantee service customers  $12,573,082   $14,031,603 
Guarantee paid on behalf of a related party   626,897    622,807 
Total  $13,199,979   $14,654,410 

 

As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, guarantee paid on behalf of guarantee service customers represents payment made by the Company to banks on behalf of thirty-one and thirty-two of its guarantee service customers who defaulted on their loan repayments to the banks. Management performs an evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance. The allowance is based on the Company’s past loan loss history, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay, the estimated value of any underlying collateral, composition of the loan portfolio, current economic conditions and other relevant factors. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company accrued allowance on the balance in “accrual for financial guarantee services” in the value of $17,898,779 and $19,322,557, respectively.

 

10.OTHER ASSETS

 

Other assets as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 consisted  of:

 

   March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31, 2015 
Other prepaid expense   12,404    30,809 
Deposit for court filing fees and legal fees   186,338    222,934 
Other receivables   48,792    39,457 
   $247,534   $293,200 

 

Deposit for court filing fees and legal fees will be claimed from default customers.

 

 23 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

11.NET INVESTMENT IN DIRECT FINANCING LEASE

 

On September 25, 2014, PFL entered into a finance lease agreement for the leasing of manufacturing equipment with a total lease receivable of $2.73 million. The lease bears an interest rate of 10.36% per annum.

 

On October 13, 2014, PFL entered into another finance lease agreement for the leasing of manufacturing equipment with a total lease receivable of $2.88 million. The lease bears an interest rate of 11.11% per annum.

 

Future minimum lease receipts under non-cancellable finance lease arrangements are as follows:

 

   March 31,
2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31,
2015
 
         
Within 1 year  $3,887,213   $3,635,411 
2 years   531,837    754,810 
3 years   -    - 
Total minimum lease receipts   4,419,050    4,390,221 
Less: amount representing interest   (357,558)   (464,100)
Present value of minimum lease receipts  $4,061,492   $3,926,121 

 

Following is a summary of the components of the Company’s net investment in direct financing leases as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

 

   March 31,
2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31,
2015
 
         
Total minimum lease payments to be received  $4,419,050   $4,390,221 
Less: Amounts representing estimated executory costs   -    - 
Minimum lease payments receivable   4,419,050    4,390,221 
Less Allowance for uncollectible   (2,876,319)   (2,857,554)
Net minimum lease payments receivable   1,542,731    1,532,667 
Estimated residual value of leased property   -    - 
Less: Unearned income   (357,558)   (355,255)
Net investment in direct financing lease  $1,185,173   $1,177,442 

 

 24 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

12.PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

 

The Company’s property and equipment used to conduct day-to-day business are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation expenses are calculated using straight-line method over the estimated useful life with 5% salvage value below:

 

Property and equipment consist of the following:

 

   Useful Life
(years)
  March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31, 2015 
Furniture and fixtures  5  $22,407   $22,260 
Vehicles  4   154,295    153,288 
Electronic equipment  3   140,920    140,001 
Leasehold improvement  3   307,755    86,418 
Less: accumulated depreciation      (468,861)   (275,847)
Property and equipment, net     $156,516   $126,120 

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company did not dispose of any property or equipment. During the three months ended March 31, 2015, the Company disposed of two vehicles with net book value of $4,160 (original cost of $81,230, accumulated depreciation of $77,170). The Company generated non-interest income of $14,585 from the disposal.

 

Depreciation expense totaled $19,006 and $27,159 for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

13.INTANGIBLE ASSETS

 

Intangible asset represents the software used for P2P platform, the useful life is estimated at 3 years.

 

   Useful Life
(years)
  March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31, 2015 
              
Software  3  $3,310   $4,435 
              

 

Amortization expense totaled $1,138 and $ 6,214 for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

14.SHORT-TERM BANK LOANS

 

Bank Name  Interest rate  Term  March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31, 2015 
               
Agricultural Bank Of China  Fixed annual rate of 6.31%  From October 30, 2015 to October 30, 2016                     -    2,618,729 
         $-   $2,618,729 

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company repaid the all outstanding bank borrowings. As of March 31, 2016, the Company did not have bank loans.

 

As of December 31, 2015, the short-term bank loans have maturity terms within 1 year. These loans were guaranteed by the Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders.

 

Interest expense incurred on short-term loans for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 were $30,057 and $ 173,166, respectively.

 

 25 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

15.DEPOSITS PAYABLE

 

Deposits payable are security deposits required from customers in order to obtain loans and guarantees from the Company. The deposits are refundable to the customers when the customers fulfill their obligations under loan and guarantee contracts. 

 

16.UNEARNED INCOME FROM GUARANTEE SERVICES AND FINANCING LEASE SERVICES

 

The Company receives guarantee commissions in full at the inception and records unearned income before amortizing it throughout the guarantee service life. Unearned income from guarantee services was $31,296 and $1,610 as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

 

The Company receives financing leasing service commissions at the inception and records unearned income before amortizing it throughout the guarantee service life. Unearned income from financing leasing services was $48,454 and $59,692 as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

 

17.OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

 

Other current liabilities as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 consisted of:

 

   March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31, 2015 
Accrued payroll  $32,339   $85,144 
Accrued office rental expenses   62,022    61,617 
Other tax (recoverable)/payable   (44,501)   14,187 
Other payable   31,620    21,294 
   $81,480   $182,242 

 

18.OTHER OPERATING EXPENSE

 

Other operating expense for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 consisted of:

 

   For the three months ended 
   March 31, 
   2016
(Unaudited)
   2015
(Unaudited)
 
Depreciation  $20,144   $33,373 
Travel expenses   144    966 
Entertainment expenses   6,758    9,130 
Promotion expenses   -    260 
Car expenses   10,215    17,181 
Legal and consulting expenses   167,191    594,552 
Bank charges   953    11,477 
Audit-related expense   30,746    97,778 
Other expenses         17,221    63,613 
Total  $253,372   $828,330 

 

19.EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT BENEFIT

 

The Company has made employee benefit contribution in accordance with relevant Chinese regulations, including retirement insurance, unemployment insurance, medical insurance, housing fund, work injury insurance and maternity insurance. The Company recorded the contribution in the salary and employee charges when incurred. The contributions made by the Company were $11,999 and $16,605 for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

20.DISTRIBUTION OF PROFIT

 

The Company did not distribute any dividend to its shareholders for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

 26 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

21.CAPITAL TRANSACTION

 

Initial Public Offering

 

On August 16, 2013, the Company closed an initial public offering (“IPO”) of 1,370,000 shares of Common Stock. On August 26, 2013, the Company sold additional 45,657 shares of Common Stock from the exercise of the overallotment option of shares granted to the underwriters. The public offering price of the shares sold in the IPO was $6.50 per share. The total gross proceeds from the offering were $9.2 million. After deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and offering expenses payable by the Company, the aggregate net proceeds received by the Company totaled approximately $7.6 million.

 

Upon the consummation of the Company’s IPO on August 16, 2013, the Series A Stock and the Series B Stock (defined below) were automatically converted into shares of Common Stock.

 

Secondary Public Offering

 

On May 13, 2014, the Company closed its second public offering (“Follow-on Offering”) of 1,750,000 shares of Common Stock and 1,750,000 warrants to purchase an additional 875,000 shares of Common Stock. The public offering price of the shares was $3.99 per share and the offering pricing for the warrants was $0.01 per warrant. 1,650,386 shares of Common Stock were newly issued by the Company and 99,614 shares of Common Stock were sold by certain selling stockholders. On June 12, 2014, the representative in the Follow-on Offering exercised its over-allotment option to purchase 252,000 warrants to purchase 126,250 shares of Common Stock. The total gross proceeds in the Follow-on Offering and the over-allotment were $6.6 million. After deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and offering expenses payable by the Company and the proceeds to the selling stockholders, the aggregate net proceeds received by the Company totaled approximately $5.7 million.

 

Common Stock

 

The Company is authorized to issue up to 100,000,000 shares of Common Stock.

 

As of December 31, 2015, there were 12,390,062 shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding.

 

On January 13, 2016, the Company issued 6,000 unregistered shares to John Levy, the Company’s Chairman of Audit Committee, at a market value of $0.32 per share, in the total amount of $1,920, for his services provided.

 

As of March 31, 2016, there were 12,396,062 shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding.

 

Warrants

 

The IPO underwriters’ and their affiliates’ received warrants to purchase an aggregate of 95,900 shares of Common Stock, which are exercisable at any time, and from time to time, in whole or in part, during the three-year period from February 10, 2014. The warrants are initially exercisable at a per share price of $6.50.

 

Warrants to purchase an aggregate of 875,000 shares of Common Stock were issued in the Follow-on Offering on May 13, 2014. The issuance price was $0.01 per warrant, and the warrants are exercisable at any time, and from time to time, in whole or in part, during the three-year period from May 13, 2014. The warrants are initially exercisable at a per share price of $5.60 and are recorded as additional paid-in capital.

 

Warrants to purchase 252,500 shares of Common Stock were issued to the underwriters in the Follow-on Offering. The warrants have a cashless exercise provision and are exercisable at any time, and from time to time, in whole or in part, during the three-year period from May 13, 2014. The warrants are initially exercisable at a per share price of $4.80 and are recorded as additional paid-in capital.

 

 27 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

21.CAPITAL TRANSACTION (CONTINUED)

 

Preferred Stock

 

The Company is authorized to issue up to 10,000,000 shares of preferred stock, of which 1,000,000 shares are designated as Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series A Stock”) and 5,000,000 shares are designated as Series B Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series B Stock”).

 

The Series A Stock ranked (i) prior to the Common Stock and to all other classes and series of equity securities of the Company which by their terms do not rank senior to the Series A Stock, and (ii) junior to any class or series of equity securities which by its terms ranked senior to the Series A Stock. The Series A Stocks was subordinate to and ranked junior to all indebtedness of the Company. Each share of the Series A Stock was on the day on which the Company consummated its IPO, automatically and without any action on the part of the holder thereof converted into issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by a consultant who received the shares on December 19, 2011. The number of shares of Common Stock issued upon conversion of the Series A Stock was equal to the purchase price of the Series A Stock divided by a per share conversion price of 50% of the price of a share of Common Stock in the IPO. No new shares were issued by the Company at the conversion. In addition, the holders were not permitted to convert their preferred stock prior to consummation of the IPO.

 

The Series B Preferred Stock ranked (i) prior to the Common Stock and to all other classes and series of equity securities of the Company which by their terms do not rank senior to the Series B Preferred Stock and (ii) junior to any class or series of equity securities which by its terms ranked senior to the Series B Preferred Stock. The Series B Stock was subordinate to and ranked junior to all indebtedness of the Company. Each share of the Series B Stock was on the day on which the Company consummated its IPO, automatically and without any action on the part of the holder thereof converted into issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by a consultant who received the shares on December 19, 2011. The number of shares of Common Stock issued upon conversion of the Series B Stock was equal to the purchase price of the Series B Stock divided by a per share conversion price of 25% of the price of a share of Common Stock in the IPO. No new shares were issued by the Company at the conversion. In addition, the holders were not permitted to convert their preferred stock prior to consummation of the IPO.

 

Between January 1, 2012 and April 1, 2013, the Company issued a total of 745 shares of Series A Stock to an aggregate of 11 investors pursuant to certain subscription agreements. We received gross proceeds of $372,500 and incurred costs associated with this private placement of $93,125.

 

Between October 12, 2012 and May 8, 2013, the Company issued a total of 760 shares of Series B Stock to an aggregate of 44 investors pursuant to certain subscription agreements. We received gross proceeds of $380,000 and incurred costs associated with this private placement of $95,000.

 

On August 16, 2013 when the Company closed its IPO, all outstanding shares of the Series A Stock and Series B Stock were converted into an aggregate of 348,462 shares of already issued and outstanding Common Stock beneficially owned by a consultant who received our shares on December 19, 2011, automatically and without any action on the part of the holder thereof. The per share conversion price of Series A Stock and Series B Stock was equal to $3.25 and $1.63, respectively.

 

The discount on the Series A and B Stock was accounted for as a beneficial conversion feature upon conversion. The total amount of discount was $752,500, which was accounted for as a reduction to retained earnings and an offsetting increase to additional paid in capital in the Company's financial statements.

 

22.STATUTORY RESERVE

 

In accordance with the PRC Regulations on Enterprises with Foreign Investment and the articles of association of the Company’s PRC subsidiaries, a foreign-invested enterprise established in the PRC is required to provide statutory reserve, which is appropriated from net profit as reported in the enterprise’s PRC statutory accounts. A foreign-invested enterprise is required to allocate at least 10% of its annual after-tax profit to the general reserve until such reserve has reached 50% of its respective registered capital based on the enterprise’s PRC statutory accounts. The Company allocates 15% of its annual after-tax profit to the statutory reserve. The statutory reserve can only be used for specific purposes and are not distributable as cash dividends. WFOE was established as a foreign-invested enterprise and, therefore, is subject to the above mandated restrictions on distributable profits. For the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company did not accrue the statutory reserve due to net loss.

 

 28 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

23.LOSS PER COMMON SHARE

 

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively:

 

   For The Three Months Ended 
   March 31, 
   2016
(Unaudited)
   2015
(Unaudited)
 
         
Net income/(loss) attributable to the common shareholders  $1,130,476   $(1,157,031)
           
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding   12,395,205    12,255,062 
Effect of dilutive securities   -    - 
Diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding   12,395,205    12,255,062 
           
Earnings/(Loss) per share:          
Basic  $0.091   $(0.094)
Diluted  $0.091   $(0.094)

 

Basic earnings/(loss) per share are computed by dividing the net income or loss by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings/(loss) per share were the same as basic earnings/(loss) per share due to the lack of dilutive items in the Company for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015. The number of warrants is omitted from the computation as the anti-dilutive effect.

 

24.INCOME TAXES AND TAX RECEIVABLE

 

Effective January 1, 2008, the New Taxation Law of PRC stipulates that domestically owned enterprises and foreign invested enterprises (the “FIEs”) are subject to a uniform tax rate of 25%. While the New Tax Law equalizes the tax rates for FIEs and domestically owned enterprises, preferential tax treatment may continue to be given to companies in certain encouraged sectors and to entities classified as high-technology companies, regardless of whether these are domestically-owned enterprises or FIEs. In November 2009, the Jiangsu Province Government issued Su Zheng Ban Fa [2009] No. 132 which stipulates that micro-credit companies in Jiangsu Province is subject to preferential tax rate of 12.5%. As a result, the Company is subject to the preferential tax rate of 12.5% for its loan business for the periods presented. The taxation practice implemented by the tax authority governing the Company is that the Company pays enterprise income taxes at rate of 25% on a quarterly basis, and upon annual tax settlement done by the Company and the tax authority in five (5) months after December 31 the tax authority will refund the Company the excess enterprise income taxes it paid beyond the rate of 12.5%. However since 2015, the excess enterprise income taxes paid will not be refunded but can be used to offset the future income tax payable arising from taxable income.

 

The Company evaluates the level of authority for each uncertain tax position (including the potential application of interest and penalties) based on the technical merits, and measures the unrecognized benefits associated with the tax positions. For the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company had no unrecognized tax benefits. For the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company made net tax operating loss from its PRC subsidiaries and its consolidated VIE of $347,574 which will expire in the year ending December 31, 2021. As of March 31, 2016, the Company has carry-forward tax operating losses from its PRC subsidiaries and its consolidated VIE of $62,253,948, which will expire from the year ending December 31, 2019 to 2021. The Company recognized deferred income tax assets of $12,437,607 as of March 31, 2016. However, the Company estimates there will be no sufficient net income before income tax from years ending December 31, 2016 to 2021 to realize the deferred income tax assets. The Company provided valuation allowance for deferred income tax assets of $12,437,607 as of March 31, 2016.

 

The Company does not anticipate any significant increase to its liability for unrecognized tax benefit within the next 12 months. The Company will classify interest and penalties related to income tax matters, if any, in income tax expense.

 

 29 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

24. INCOME TAXES AND TAX RECEIVABLE (CONTINUED)

 

Income tax payable is comprised of:

 

   March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31, 2015 
           
Income tax payable  $141,043   $126,485 

 

Income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 is comprised of:

 

   For The Three Months Ended 
   March 31, 
   2016   2015 
         
Current income tax  $-   $- 
Deferred income tax   -    134,761 
Total provision for income taxes  $-   $134,761 
           

The effective tax rates for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 are 0% and -27.74%, respectively.

 

Deferred tax liability arises from government incentive for the purpose of covering the Company’s actual loan losses and ruled that the income tax will be imposed on the subsidy if the purpose is not fulfilled within 5 years after the Company receives the subsidy. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, subsidy of $1,121,698 and $1,011,877 did not fulfill the purpose within due date and the related deferred tax liability was transferred to income tax payable. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the deferred tax liability amounted to $191,880 and $204,266, respectively.

 

As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company intends to permanently reinvest the undistributed earnings from its foreign subsidiaries to fund future operations. The amount of unrecognized deferred tax liabilities for temporary differences related to investments in foreign subsidiaries is not determined because such a determination is not practicable.

 

 30 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

25.RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS AND BALANCES

 

1)Nature of relationships with related parties

 

Name   Relationship with the Company
Wujiang Chunjia Textile Trading Co., Ltd (“Chunjia Textile”)   Controlled by Huichun Qin
Suzhou Dingli Real Estate Co., Ltd.   Controlled by Chief Executive Ofiicer
Huichun Qin   Non-controlling shareholder and former CEO and chairman of board of directors

 

2)Related party transactions

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2016, Suzhou Dingli Real Estate Co., Ltd., a company controlled by Mr. Jingen Ling, the Chief Executive Officer was involved to provide guarantee services for the bank borrowings. No commissions or fees are required from the Company. As of March 31, 2016, all outstanding bank borrowings have been repaid.

 

  3) Related party balances

 

Amount due from related parties were as follows:

 

  

March 31, 2016

(Unaudited)

   December 31, 2015 
         
Chunjia Textile  $626,897   $622,807 
Huichun Qin  $1,085,381   $1,078,300 

 

As of March 31, 2016, the Company provided financial guarantee service for Chunjia Textile to guarantee loans of $626,897. The Company accrued provision of $313,448 on the outstanding balance as of March 31, 2016.

 

Huichun Qin transferred $1,098,197(equivalent of RMB 7 million) to his personal account without proper authorization on July 2, 2014. As of March 31, 2016, Huichun Qin has not repaid the balance. The amount was recorded as a deduction of the Company’s equity as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

 

 31 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

26.COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

1)Lease Commitments

 

During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company leased its new office under a lease agreement from June 1, 2015 to May 31, 2021. As a result, in October 2015, the Company terminated the lease agreement for its former principal office which agreement was to expire on September 30, 2018. No default penalty was paid for the earlier termination. The following table sets forth the Company’s contractual obligations as of March 31, 2016 in future periods:

 

  

Rental payments

(Unaudited)

 
     
Year ending March 31, 2017   61,158 
Year ending March 31, 2018   73,389 
Year ending March 31, 2019   73,389 
Year ending March 31, 2020   73,389 
Year ending March 31, 2021   73,389 
Year ending March 31, 2022   12,232 
Total  $366,946 

 

2)Guarantee Commitments

 

The guarantees will terminate upon payment and/or cancellation of the obligation; however, payments by the Company would be triggered by failure of the guaranteed party to fulfill its obligation covered by the guarantee. Generally, the average guarantee expiration terms ranged within 12 to 24 months and the average percentage of the guarantee amount as security deposit is 10% ~ 20% . As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the loan amount guaranteed by the Company was $11,729,864 and $11,653,342, respectively, for its financial guarantee service customers.

 

 32 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

26.COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)

 

3)Contingencies

 

The Company is involved in various legal actions arising in the ordinary course of its business. As of March 31, 2016, the Company was involved in 106 lawsuits, among which 69 were related to its loan business and 37 were related to guarantee business. The Company initiated legal proceedings to collect delinquent balances from borrowers and guarantees. 84 of these cases with an aggregated claim of USD 39.63 million have been adjudicated by the Court in favor of the Company and these cases are settled or in the process of enforcement. The remaining 22 cases with an aggregated claim of USD 15.02 million have not been adjudicated by the Court as of March 31, 2016.

 

On August 6, 2014, a purported shareholder Andrew Dennison filed a putative class action complaint in the United States District Court District of New Jersey (the “N.J. district court”) relating to a July 25, 2014 press release about the Company’s progress in recovering a significant portion of the $5.4 million the Company paid in the first quarter of 2014 on behalf of loan guarantee customers. The action, Andrew Dennison v. China Commercial Credit, Inc., et al., Case No. 2:2014-cv-04956, alleges that the Company and its current and former officers and directors Huichun Qin, Long Yi, Jianming Yin, Jinggen Ling, Xiangdong Xiao, and John F. Levy violated the federal securities laws by misrepresenting in prior public filings certain material facts about the risks associated with its loan guarantee business. On October 2, 2014, purported shareholders Zhang Yun and Sanjiv Mehrotra (the “Yun Group”) asserted substantially similar claims against the same defendants in a putative class action captioned Zhang Yun v. China Commercial Credit, Inc., et al., Case No. 2:14-cv-06136 (D. N.J.). Neither complaint states the amount of damages sought.

 

On or about October 6, 2014, Dennison, the Yun Group and another purported shareholder, Jason Stark, filed motions to consolidate the cases, be appointed as lead plaintiff and to have their respective counsel appointed as lead counsel. On October 31, 2014, the N.J. district court entered an order consolidating the cases under the caption “In re China Commercial Credit Inc. Securities Litigation” and appointing the Yun Group as lead plaintiff (“Class Plaintiff”) and the Yun Group’s counsel as lead counsel.

 

On November 18, 2014, the Yun Group and the Company, which at that point was the only defendant served, entered into a stipulation to transfer of the case to the Southern District of New York. On December 18, 2014, Mr. Levy, who had by then been served, joined in the stipulation. On December 29, 2014, the N.J. district court entered an order transferring the action. The transfer was effected on January 22, 2015, and assigned docket number 1:15-cv-00557-ALC (S.D.N.Y.).

 

Under the schedule stipulated by the parties, the Yun Group was to file an amended complaint within 60 days of the date that the transfer was effected, and the defendants’ date to answer or move was within 60 days of that filing. On April 7, 2015, the Class Plaintiff filed a Second Amended Class Action Complaint (the “CAC”). The CAC also asserts securities law claims against defendants Axiom Capital Management, Inc., Burnham Securities Inc. and ViewTrade Securities, Inc. (collectively, the “Underwriter Defendants”). The CAC alleges that the Company engaged in a fraudulent scheme by engaging in undisclosed and improper lending practices and made misleading representations regarding its underwriting policies, the loan portfolio quality, the loan loss allowance, compliance with U.S. GAAP and its internal control systems.

 

In accordance with the Court’s procedures, the Company and Mr. Levy and the Underwriter Defendants requested a Pre-Motion Conference in anticipation of filing a motion to dismiss the CAC, which was held on June 25, 2015. At the conference, the Court adjourned the date to answer or move in order to provide the Class Plaintiff with time to serve certain overseas defendants. After the conference, the Class Plaintiff voluntarily dismissed Jianming Yin, Jinggen Ling and Xiangdong Xiao from the action, and Long Yi agreed to waive service, which left Huichun Qin as the sole remaining defendant to serve. The case remains stayed pending service of Huichun Qin.

 

On April 22, 2016, the Company entered into a Stipulation and Agreement of Settlement (the “Stipulation”) to settle the Securities Class Action. The Stipulation resolves the claims asserted against the Company and certain of its current and former officers and directors in the Securities Class Action without any admission or concession of wrongdoing or liability by the Company or the other defendants. The Stipulation also provides, among other things, a settlement payment by the Company of $225,000 in cash and the issuance of 750,000 shares of its common stock (the “Settlement Shares”) to the class members. The terms of the Stipulation are subject to approval by the Court following notice to all class members. The issuance of the Settlement Shares is expected to be exempt from registration pursuant to Section 3(a)(10) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

Two of the Underwriter Defendants, Axiom Capital Management, Inc., and ViewTrade Securities, Inc., have asserted their respective rights to indemnification under the Underwriting Agreements entered into in connection with the Company’s initial public offering and secondary offering. On or about March 16, 2016, CCCR entered into an Advance Funding and Escrow Agreement, under which the CCCR agreed to deposit shares into escrow to fund the advancement obligation, with the initial deposit to be shares valued at Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($200,000), based upon 80% of the 30 day volume weighted average Trading Price ("VWAP") for each of the 30 consecutive trading days prior to the date of the Agreement.

 

 33 

 

 

CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

26.COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)

 

3)Contingencies (continued)

 

On February 3, 2015, a purported shareholder Kiram Kodali filed a putative shareholder derivative complaint in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, captioned Kiran Kodali v. Huichun Qin, et al., Case No. 15-cv-806. The action alleges that the Company and its current and former officers and directors Huichun Qin, Long Yi, Jianming Yin, Jinggen Ling, Chunfang Shen, John F. Levy, Xiaofang Shen and Chunjiang Yu violated their fiduciary duties, grossly mismanaged the Company and were unjustly enriched based upon the transfer that was the subject of the Internal Review and other grounds substantially similar to those asserted in the class action complaints. Kodali did not serve a demand upon the Company and alleges that demand is excused. The Company and Mr. Levy have been served. An amended derivative complaint was filed on April 20, 2015. On May 29, 2015, the Court “so ordered” a stipulation among Kodali, the Company and Mr. Levy staying all proceedings in the derivative case except for service of process on individual defendants until the earlier of thirty days of termination of the stipulation, dismissal of the class action with prejudice or the date any of the defendants in the class action file an answer to the CAC. The Company believes that this lawsuit is without merit and intends to vigorously defend against it. At this stage of the proceedings, the Company is not able to estimate the probability of success or loss.

 

On May 18, 2015, WFOE filed a civil complaint against Huichun Qin with the Wujiang Region Suzhou City People’s Court claiming Mr. Qin’s misappropriation of RMB 7 million in July 2014. The complaint was rejected due to a procedural issue. The Company has since learned that Mr. Qin has been convicted and sentenced to a term of incarceration of approximately five years. In view of this information, the Company is evaluating its strategic options.

 

27.SUBSEQUENT EVENT 

 

1)Receipt of NASDAQ Deficiency Notice

 

On April 20, 2016, the Company received a written notice from The Nasdaq Stock Market (“Nasdaq”) stating that the Company is no longer in compliance with the minimum stockholders’ equity requirement for continued listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market. Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(b)(1) requires listed companies to maintain stockholders’ equity of at least $2,500,000. In its Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2015, the Company reported stockholders’ equity of $860,661. Further, as of April 20, 2016, the Company did not meet the alternative compliance standards under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(b) of (i) a market value of listed securities of at least $35,000,000 or (ii) net income from continuing operations of $500,000 in its last completed fiscal year or in two of the last three fiscal years.

 

The notification letter has no immediate effect on the Company’s listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market. Nasdaq has provided the Company with 45 calendar days, or until June 6, 2016, to submit a plan to regain compliance with the minimum stockholders’ equity standard. The Company intends to promptly evaluate options available to regain compliance and to timely submit a plan to regain compliance with Nasdaq’s minimum stockholders’ equity standard. There can be no assurance that the Company’s plan will be accepted or that, if it is, the Company will be able to regain compliance with the applicable Nasdaq listing requirements.

 

2)Contingencies

 

During the period from April 1, 2016 to the date of this report, the Company was involved in 3 new lawsuits, which are related to loan business. The Company initiated legal proceedings to collect delinquent balance from the borrowers. These cases, with a claim of US$2.09  million are still at the initial stage of the litigation. 

 

2) Charged-off loans

 

During the period from April 1, 2016 to the date of this report, the Company assessed the charged-off loan and guarantee balances recorded as of March 31, 2016 and was of the opinion that these balances were uncollectible. In addition, the Company assessed the remaining balances of loan receivable and financial guarantee and was of the opinion that it was not necessary to charge-off these balances.

 

 34 

 

 

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS  

 

The information contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q includes some statements that are not purely historical and that are “forward-looking statements.” Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our company and our management’s expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future, including our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. The words “anticipates,” “believes,” “continue,” “could,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “might,” “plans,” “possible,” “potential,” “predicts,” “projects,” “seeks,” “should,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions, or the negatives of such terms, may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking.

 

The forward-looking statements contained herein are based on current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and the potential effects on us. Future developments actually affecting us may not be those anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties (some of which are beyond our control) or other assumptions that may cause actual results or performance to be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Examples are statements regarding future developments with respect to the following:

 

Our ability to improve internal controls and procedures;

 

Our ability to develop and market our microcredit lending guarantee business in the future;
   
● 

Our ability to effectively control the lending risk and collect from default borrowers;

 

● 

Our ability to make timely adjustment to ensure adequate loan loss provisions;

 

●  Inflation and fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates;
   
●  Our on-going ability to obtain all mandatory and voluntary government and other industry certifications, approvals, and/or licenses to conduct our business;
   
●  Development of a liquid trading market for our securities; and
   
●  The costs we may incur in the future from complying with current and future governmental regulations and the impact of any changes in the regulations on our operations.

 

You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. The events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements may not be achieved or occur. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Moreover, neither we nor any other person assume responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of the forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason after the date of this report to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in our expectations.

 

You should review the factors described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” herein and other documents we file from time to time with the SEC. We qualify all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.

 

 35 

 

 

Overview

 

We are a financial services firm operating in China. Our current operations are mainly conducted through Wujiang Luxiang, a fully licensed microcredit company which we control through our subsidiaries and certain contractual arrangement, and consist of providing short-term direct loans and loan guarantees to small and medium enterprises (“SME”s) located in Wujiang City, Jiangsu Province of China. As of March 31, 2016, we have built a $62.2 million portfolio of direct loans to 110 borrowers and a total of $11.7 million in loan guarantees for 14 borrowers. We were established under the 2008 Guidance on the Small Loan Company Pilot of the China Banking Regulatory Commission and the People's Bank of China (“PBOC”) (No.23) (“Circular No. 23”) to extend short term loans and loan guarantees to SMEs, a class of borrowers that we believe have been underserved in the Chinese lending market. The loans that we provide bridge the gap between Chinese-state run banks that have not traditionally served the capital needs of SMEs and high interest rate “underground” lenders, and our loans provide capital at more favorable terms and sustainable interest rates.

 

As the rate of fees and commissions generated from the guarantee business has been decreasing, the Company has decided that the revenue does not justify the default risks involved, and therefore expects to further reduce the traditional guarantee business and hold off on pursuing the guarantee business to be provided via the Kaixindai Financing Services Jiangsu Co. Ltd (“Kaixindai”) platform as previously planned. Management may actively resume the guarantee business if economic conditions improve in the future.

 

On September 5, 2013, our wholly owned subsidiary, CCC International Investment Holding Ltd. (“CCC HK”), established Pride Financial Leasing (Suzhou) Co. Ltd. (“PFL”) in Jiangsu Province, China. PFL was expected to offer financial leasing of machinery and equipment, transportation vehicles, and medical devices to municipal government agencies, hospitals and SMEs in Jiangsu Province and beyond. As of the date of this annual report, PFL entered into two financial leasing agreements for an aggregate lease receivable of $5.65 million (one with a monthly principle and interest income approximating $81,600 for the period during November 13, 2014 to May 12, 2015, and approximating $80,000 for the period from May 13, 2015 and thereafter, and the other with a quarterly principle and interest income approximating $342,800). We do not currently have further funds to deploy in the financial leasing business.

 

Key Factors Affecting Our Results of Operation

 

Our business and operating results are affected by China’s overall economic growth, local, economic condition, market interest rate and the borrowers repayment ability. Unfavorable changes could affect the demand for the services that we provide and could materially and adversely affect our results of operations. Our results of operations are also affected by the regulations and industry policies related to the microcredit industry in the PRC.

 

Our results of operations are also affected by the provision for loan losses and provision for financial guarantee loss which are noncash items and represents an assessment of the risk of future loan losses. Increases in the allowance for loan losses are achieved through provision for loan losses that are charged against net interest income.

 

Although we have generally benefited from China’s economic growth and the policies to encourage lending to farmers and SMEs, we are also affected by the complexity, uncertainties and changes in the PRC regulations governing the micro lending industry. Due to PRC legal restrictions on foreign equity ownership of and investment in the micro lending sector in China, we rely on contractual arrangements with Wujiang Luxiang, and its shareholders to conduct most of our current business in China. We face risks associated with our control over our variable interest entity, as our control is based upon contractual arrangements rather than equity ownership.

 

 36 

 

 

Results of Operations

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 as Compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2015

 

   For the Three Months Ended March 31,   Change 
   2016   2015   Amount   % 
   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)         
Interest income                
Interests and fees on loans and direct financing lease  $232,046   $1,281,469   $(1,049,423)   -82%
Interests on deposits with banks   2,755    5,457    (2,702)   -50%
Total interest and fees income   234,801    1,286,926    (1,052,125)   -82%
                     
Interest expense                    
Interest expense on short-term bank loans   (30,057)   (173,166)   143,109    -83%
Net interest income   204,744    1,113,760    (909,016)   -82%
                     
Provision for loan losses   (102,632)   (213,103)   110,471    -52%
Provision for direct financing lease losses   -    (610,312)   610,312    -100%
Net interest income after provision for loan losses and financing lease loses   102,112    290,345    (283,792)   (188,233)
                     
Commissions and fees on financial guarantee services   7,891    49,855    (41,964)   -84%
(Under)/overprovision on financial guarantee services   1,411,494    (278,898)   1,690,392    -606%
Commission and fees income/(loss) on guarantee services, net   1,419,385    (229,043)   1,648,428    -720%
                     
Net Revenue   1,521,497    61,302    1,460,195    2382%
                     
Non-interest income                    
Other non-interest income   -    14,585    (14,585)   -100%
Total non-interest income   -    14,585    (14,585)   -100%
                     
Non-interest expense                    
Salaries and employee surcharge   (102,060)   (144,925)   42,865    -30%
Rental expenses   (18,347)   (67,876)   49,529    -73%
Business taxes and surcharge   (16,755)   (56,458)   39,703    -70%
Other operating expenses   (253,372)   (828,330)   574,958    -69%
Total non-interest expense   (390,534)   (1,097,589)   707,055    -64%
                     
Foreign exchange loss   (487)   (568)   81    -14%
                     
Income/(Loss) Before Income Taxes   1,130,476    (1,022,270)   2,152,746    -211%
Income tax expense   -    (134,761)   134,761    -100%
Net Income/(Loss)   1,130,476    (1,157,031)   2,287,507    -198%
                     
Earnings/(Loss) per Share- Basic and Diluted   0.091    (0.094)   0.185    -197%
                     
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding-Basic and Diluted   12,395,205    12,255,062    140,143    1%
                     
Net Income/(Loss)   1,130,476    (1,157,031)   2,287,507    -198%
Other comprehensive loss                    
Foreign currency translation adjustment   (891,546)   204,709    (1,096,255)   -536%
Comprehensive Income/(Loss)  $238,930    (952,322)   1,191,252    -125%

 

 37 

 

 

The Company’s net income for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was $1,130,476, representing an increase of $2,287,507 or 198%, from net loss of $1,157,031 for the three months ended March 31, 2015. The increase in net income for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was the net effect of the changes in the following components:

 

a decrease in net interest income of $909,016;

 

a decrease in the provision for loan losses of $110,471, and a decrease in the provision for direct financing leases of $610,312;

 

an increase in commission and fees income on financial guarantee services of $1,648,428;

 

a decrease of provision on financial guarantee services of $1,690,392;

 

a decrease in total non-interest expense of $707,055; and

 

a decrease in income tax expense of $134,761;

 

The following paragraphs discuss changes in the components of net (loss)/income in greater details during the three months ended March 31, 2016, as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2015.

 

Net Interest Income

 

Net interest income is equal to interest income we generated less interest expenses on short-term bank loans we incurred. The Company’s net interest income decreased by $909,016, or 82% to $204,744 during the three months ended March 31, 2016, as compared to net interest income of $1,113,760 during the three months ended March 31, 2015.

 

The interests and fees on loans, direct financing leases and deposits with banks decreased by $1,049,423, or 82% from $1,281,469 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 to $232,046 for the three months ended March 31, 2016. The decrease is the combined effect of: (1) no addition of new loans or renewal of loans during the three months ended March 31, 2016, leading to a significant decrease in interest income; and (2) the decrease in the amount of monthly interest received from long-aged loans resulting from the customers’ election to repay the principal and the interest due at the maturity instead of making monthly interest payments.

 

 38 

 

 

Since the beginning of 2014, People’s Bank of China continued to withdraw a significant amount of liquidity from the market, which has made it even harder for SMEs to gain access to capital. The bank lenders usually require an old loan be paid in full upon maturity before they approve a new loan to the same borrower. Some SMEs have to borrow from so-called “underground” lenders, or shadow banks to repay the loans due to the banks. Additionally, the banks denied to extend new loans to some SMEs even after they made the full repayment for the loans due and satisfied other conditions. Management is concerned that the borrowers may use the proceeds from the loans we grant to them as a means of repayment to the other banks or even to the underground lenders, instead of using them in operations. Therefore, management decided to grant new loans in a more cautious manner. As of March 31, 2016, we had 110 loans with an average loan size of $565,000. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, we did not grant or renew any loans, as compared to grant of 35 loans with an average loan size of $266,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2015. As a result, the interest income generated during the three months ended March 31, 2016 declined.

 

Due to the long-term nature of our restricted deposits with third party banks, we utilized these deposits as term deposits which in turn generated interest income on deposits with banks of $2,755 during the three months ended March 31, 2016 as compared to $5,457 during the three months ended March 31, 2015. Caused by the contraction of our traditional guarantee business with banks, we have closed several restricted deposit accounts with banks through which we provided guarantee services to our customers. As a result, the interest income on deposits with bank was insignificant during the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Interest expense represents interest incurred on short-term bank loans. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the interest expense related to the loans from banks was $30,057 as compared to $173,166 for the same period last year. The interest expense incurred on short-term bank loans decreased by $143,109 or 83%. This was mainly caused by a decrease of total bank borrowing balance by $2.6 million from $2.6 million as of December 31, 2015 to $nil as of March 31, 2016.

 

Provision for Loan Losses

 

The Company’s provision for loan losses was $102,632 and $213,103 for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The provision for loan losses was determined by comparing the beginning and ending balance of allowance for loan losses for business and personal loans. If the ending balance of the allowance of loan losses after any charge offs (net of recoveries) is less than the beginning balance, it will be recorded as a “reversal” if it is larger, it will be recorded as a “provision” in the allowance for loan loss. The netting amount of “reversal” and “provision” is presented in the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income and the components of the provision for loan losses were disclosed in Note 7 of financial statements.

 

Provision for loan losses decreased by $110,471, or 52% for the three months ended March 31, 2016, as compared to the same period last year. This is mainly due to the collection of $80,014 from charged-off customers during the three months ended March 31, 2016 and consistent loan quality period over period.

 

Since the beginning of 2014, the economic conditions in the eastern part of China, especially the Yangtze River Delta region, has been challenging due to the downturn of the general economic situation in China. Wujiang, which is in the heart of this region, has been significantly affected. The textile industry, which is the pillar industry in the Wujiang area, as well as other industries, has been facing downward pressure. As the local SMEs’ profitability and repayment ability deteriorates, “doubtful” and “loss” bank loans drastically increased. As such, our provision for loan losses substantially increased since 2014 and we accrued a significant allowance for loan losses as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

 

In February and March 2015, the Company reviewed the classification of its loan portfolios within its rating system to test the adequacy of the allowances calculated thereby. As a result of such testing, the Company decided to reclassify certain loans into different categories. The Company reviewed the profile, financial condition and other relevant information and documents of each customer in the lending businesses. For customers with several loans with different due dates, if one of whose loans was past due, the Company decided to reclassify all loans of the customer's as past due (even the other loans that were not mature yet). For extended loans, the Company re-evaluated the customer's repayment ability in a more cautions manner and reclassified the loans of customers without very strong financial condition into the past due category. These reclassifications affected numerous customer accounts.

 

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During the year ended December 31, 2015, management continued to assess the adequacy of the allowances in a cautious manner. Management assessed the collectability of loan receivable balances on an individual basis and concluded the collection from certain borrowers is remote. Therefore, management determined to charge off loan balances against allowances, in the amount of $7.1 million, as these loans are deemed as uncollectible. Management concluded that these borrowers had neither ability nor intention to make repayment as (1) these charged loans are guarantee backed loans which are subordinated to asset backed loans these borrowers obtained from the banks, (2) most of our borrowers or their guarantors are in the textile industry and the majority of the textile businesses are struggling due to the continued and worsened downturn trend in China’s macro-economic environment during the third quarter of fiscal year 2015 and quite a number of textile businesses went bankrupt and (3) management was advised by local counsels representing the Company in the collection lawsuits that the chances of collection is quite remote given the large scale defaults in both large and small businesses in Wujiang region. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company assessed the charged-off loan balances recorded as of March 31, 2016 and was of the opinion that these balances were uncollectible.

 

Net Commission and Fees on Guarantee Business

 

The Company also generated net income by charging fees for financial guarantee services provided to our customers to help them obtain loans from other banks. We generally charge a one-time fee of 1.8% - 3.6% multiplied by the amount of loans being guaranteed, based on the nature of the guarantee and whether the customer is new or existing.

 

As of March 31, 2016, the off-balance-sheet financial guarantee amounted to $11.7 million. The commissions and fees generated from our financial guarantee services decreased from $49,855 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 to $7,891 for the three months ended March 31, 2016, representing a decrease of $41,964, or 84%. The reduction was due to the decreased number of guarantee transactions as management reduced the guarantee portfolio to control the default risk.

 

As of March 31, 2016, we have provided guarantees for a total of $11.7 million underlying loans to approximately 14 financial guarantee service customers, as compared to a total of $11.6 million as of December 31, 2015.

 

Provision on Financial Guarantee Services

 

The provision on financial guarantee services changed from an accrual of provision of $278,898 for the three months ended March 31, 2015, to a reversal of provision of $1,411,494 for the three months ended March 31, 2016, representing a change of $1,690,392. The change was mainly attributable to the repayment of $1.4 million from several financial guarantee customers who were classified as “loss customers” as of December 31, 2015.

 

The methodology the Company used to estimate the liability for probable guarantee loss considers the guarantee contract amount and a variety of factors, which include, dependence on the counterparty, latest financial position and performance of the customers, actual defaults, estimated future defaults, historical loss experience, estimated value of collaterals or guarantees the costumers or third parties offered, and other economic conditions such as the economic trend of the area and the country. The estimates are based upon currently available information. Based on the recent lawsuit results and repayment status by defaulted customers, the Company estimated approximately 50% of off-balance-sheet financial guarantee services may be subject to default and their repayment may be “not likely”. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company accrued approximately 50%of contract amount as compared to 1% of contract amount as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014.

 

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We accrued specific provision on the balance of repayment on behalf of defaulted customers according to “Five-Tier” principal. The Specific Reserve is based on the level of loss of each loan after categorizing the loan according to their risk. According to the “Five-Tier Principle” set forth in the Provision Guidance, the guarantees are categorized as “special-mention”, “substandard”, “doubtful” or “loss”. Normally, the provision rate is 2% for “special-mention”, 25% for “substandard”, 50% for “doubtful” and 100% for “loss”.

 

Since the beginning of 2016, People’s Bank of China injected a significant amount of liquidity to the market to encourage the development of emerging industries such as online-game, filming and virtual reality, which has made it easier than previous two years for entities to gain access to capital. However, the bank lenders are still cautious with SMEs in traditional industries. The bank lenders usually require an old loan be paid in full upon maturity before they approve a new loan to the same borrower. Since the ended of the year ended December 31, 2014, the banks denied to extend new loans to many SMEs even after they made the full repayment for the loans due and satisfied other conditions. As a result, some of the SME borrowers for which we provided the guarantees decided to default on the bank loans. Therefore the amount of repayment we made to the bank lenders substantially increased since the year ended December 31, 2014. We have brought collection actions against both the borrowers and their counter-guarantors. However, management was advised by counsel in the collection action that the chance of collection is remote given the large scale bad debt prevalent in Wujiang region. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, we charged off guarantee paid on behalf of one customer against accrual for financial guarantee service in the amount of $0.12 million as compared to $nil  for the same period last year.

 

In February and March 2015, the Company revisited the classification of its guarantee portfolios within its rating system to test the adequacy of the allowances calculated thereby. As a result of such testing, the Company decided to reclassify certain guarantees into different categories. The Company reviewed the profile, financial condition and other relevant information and documents of each customer in the guarantee businesses. For customers with several guarantees with different due dates, if one guaranteed loan was past due, the Company decided to reclassify all of this customer's guaranteed loans as past due (even the other loans that were not mature yet). These reclassifications affected numerous customer accounts. We engaged He-Partners Law Firm, one of the largest law firms in Suzhou City, to represent us in the legal proceedings against the borrowers and their counter guarantors, and expect to collect part of the outstanding balance in a period ranging from six twelve months to one and a half year upon adjudication by the court in favor of the Company. The timing of collection and ultimate amount of funds we can recover depend on a few factors, including the repayment ability of the borrower and their counter-guarantors, the execution time of the court, other obligations the borrowers have and priority over the claim for the Company.

 

Non-Interest Expenses

 

Non-interest expenses decreased from $1,097,589 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 to $390,534 for the three months ended March 31, 2016, representing a decrease of $707,055 or 64%. Non-interest expenses primarily consisted of salary and employee surcharge, office rental expense, business tax and surcharge, depreciation of equipment, travel expenses, entertainment expenses, professional service fees, and other office supplies. The decrease was mainly attributable to a decrease of salaries and employee surcharge by $42,865, or 30% and a decrease of other operating expenses by $574,958, or 69%. Other operating expenses were lower during the three months ended March 31, 2016 as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2015, primarily due to a decrease in legal and consulting fee of $427,361 and a decrease in audit-related expenses of $67,032. Professionals, including lawyers and accountants were engaged in investigation of Mr. Qin’s misappropriation of RMB 7 million during the three months ended March 31, 2015.

 

Income Tax

 

Income tax expenses decreased from $134,761 for three months ended March 31, 2015 to nil for three months ended March 31, 2016. The decrease in income tax is mainly attributable to the net operating loss carryforward from December 31, 2015, which can be utilized to offset the taxable income generated during the three months ended March 31, 2016. As a result, nil income tax expenses was accrued during the three months ended March 31, 2016.

 

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Loan Portfolio Quality

 

One of our key objectives is to maintain a high level of loan portfolio quality. When a borrower fails to make a scheduled payment, we attempt to cure the deficiency by personally contacting the borrower. Initial contacts typically are made seven days after the date the payment is due, and warning letters are sent by our legal counsel approximately 90 days after the default. In most cases, deficiencies are promptly resolved. If the outstanding amount cannot be collected within 180 days after the maturity date and the parties could not reach an agreement on a specific repayment program, we will initiate legal proceedings.

 

We also keep the frequency of visits to our customers and observe their daily production on site from time to time to observe their operating condition and collect their financial information. Since most of our customers are in the Jiangsu area, it is also relatively easy to obtain information about our customers.

 

On loans where the collection of principal or interest payments is doubtful, the accrual of interest income ceases and become “non-accrual” loans. Except for loans that are sufficiently secured and in the process of collection, it is our policy to discontinue accruing additional interest and reverse any interest accrued on any loan which is 90 days or more past due.

 

We account for our impaired loans in accordance with U.S. GAAP. An impaired loan generally is one for which it is probable, based on current information, that the lender will not collect all the amounts due under the contractual terms of the loan. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. Management determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s prior payment history and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. Impairment is measured on a loan by loan basis for business and personal loans by either the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateralized.

 

We allow a one-time loan extension with time duration up to the original loan term, which is usually within twelve months. In order to qualify, the borrower must be current with its interest payments. We do not grant concession to borrowers as the principal of the loan remains the same and interest rate is fixed at the current interest rate at the time of extension.

 

We use a comprehensive methodology to monitor credit quality and prudently manage credit concentration within our portfolio of loans. Currently our loan portfolio concentrates in the textile industry and during the three months ended March 31, 2016, both the domestic and international demand for textile products have been decreasing. To maintain our loan portfolio quality, we have modified our loan policy to accept only textile companies with real estate as collateral or guaranteed by guarantee companies. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, we assessed the loan portfolio quality and charged-off loan receivable balances recorded as of March 31, 2016 and were of the opinion that these balances were uncollectible.

 

In addition, we plan to minimize our risks by concentrating on smaller amount loans that are below $465,000 (or approximately RMB 3.0 million).

 

Currently, the banking industry encourages SMEs to apply for loans as individual with recourse so that when it is past due, both the SME and the responsible individual are both liable for the past due amount and the individual borrower carries personal liability. As of March 31, 2016, our loan balance remained stable as compared to that as of December 31, 2015 with a decrease of $974,186 in business loan and an increase of $59,878 in personal loan.

 

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The following table sets forth the classification of loans receivable as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively:

 

   March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
Amount
   Percent of Total   December 31,
2015
Amount
   Percent of Total 
                 
Business loans  $39,524,627    63.58%  $40,498,813    64.21%
Personal loans   22,637,785    36.42%   22,577,907    35.79%
Total Loans receivable  $62,162,412    100%  $63,076,720    100%

 

Nonaccrual loans totaled $32.46 million, or 52.21% of loans receivable as of March 31, 2016, as compared with $31.12 million, or 50.92% of loans receivable, as of December 31, 2015. The allowance for loan losses was $56.14 million, representing 90.32% of loans receivable and 172.98% of non-accrual loans as of March 31, 2016. As of December 31, 2015, the allowance for loan losses was $55.60 million, representing 88.14% of loans receivable and 173.09% of non-accrual loans.

 

The following table sets forth information concerning our nonaccrual loans as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively:

 

   March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31,
2015
 
         
Nonaccrual loans  $32,456,965   $31,118,910 
Allowance for loan losses  $56,144,822   $55,595,654 
Loans receivable  $62,162,412   $63,076,720 
Total assets  $21,484,845   $24,446,840 
Nonaccrual loans to loans receivable   52.21%   50.92%
Nonperforming assets to total assets   151.07%   127.29%
Allowance for loan losses to loans receivable   90.32%   88.14%
Allowance for loan losses to non-accrual loans   172.98%   173.09%

 

Since the beginning of 2014, the economic conditions in the eastern part of China, especially the Yangtze River Delta region, has been challenging due to the downturn of the general economic situation in China. Wujiang, which is in the heart of this region, has been significantly affected. The textile industry, which is the pillar industry in Wujiang area, as well as other industries, have been facing downward pressure. As the local SMEs’ profitability and repayment ability deteriorates, “special mentioned”, “substandard” and “doubtful’ bank loans drastically increased. As such, our provision for loan losses remained at a high level as of March 31, 2016.

 

Cash Flows and Capital Resources

 

We have financed our operations primarily through shareholder contributions, cash flow from operations, bank loans, and public offerings of securities. As a result of our total cash activities, net cash decreased from $306,401 as of December 31, 2015 to $250,267 as of March 31, 2016.

 

These and other factors disclosed in this annual report raise substantial doubt as to the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Management believes that it has developed a liquidity plan, as summarized below, that, if executed successfully, will provide sufficient liquidity to meet the Company obligations for a reasonable period of time.

 

Going Concern

 

These and other factors disclosed in this quarterly report raise substantial doubt as to the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Management believes that it has developed a liquidity plan, as summarized below, that, if executed successfully, will provide sufficient liquidity to meet the Company obligations for a reasonable period of time. 

 

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Bank Financing and Other Financial Support

 

On October 30, 2015, the Company entered into a borrowing agreement with Agriculture Bank of China for a one-year bank facility of RMB 29 million (or approximately $4 million). As of March 23, 2016, the Company has paid off all outstanding bank borrowings. The Company may use this bank credit line in the next few months and lend new direct loans to customers if the economic condition in Wujiang area improves. The credit line is guaranteed by Wujiang Luxiang Shareholders and can be renewed with a prior written application to Agriculture Bank of China.

 

Meanwhile, the Company is actively seeking other strategic investors with experience in lending business. If necessary, the shareholders of Wujiang Luxiang will contribute more capital into WujiangLuxiang.

 

Improvement in Working Capital Management

 

In order to meet the capital needs for our continued operations, we continue to use our best effort to improve our collection of loan receivable and interest receivable. We engaged four law firms, Jiangsu Zhenyuzhen Law Firm, Jiangsu Tianbian Law Firm, Jiangsu Mingren Law Firm and He-Partners Law Firm to represent us in the legal proceedings against the borrowers and their counter guarantors. Among them, He-Partners Law Firm, is one of the largest law firms in Suzhou City.

 

While management believes that the measures in the liquidity plan will be adequate to satisfy its liquidity and cash flow requirements for the twelve months ending March 31, 2017, there is no assurance that the liquidity plan will be successfully implemented. Failure to successfully implement the liquidity plan will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations and financial position, and may materially adversely affect its ability to continue as a going concern.

 

Statement of Cash Flows

 

The following table sets forth a summary of our cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively:

 

   For the three months ended 
March 31,
 
   2016
(Unaudited)
   2015
(Unaudited)
 
Net cash used in operating activities  $(155,375)  $(1,440,120)
Net cash provided by investing activities   2,697,663    506,463 
Net cash used in financing activities   (2,599,210)   (1,627,498)
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash   788    8,393 
Net cash outflow  $(56,134)  $(2,552,762)

 

Net Cash Used in Operating Activities

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2016, we had a cash inflow from operating activities of $155,375, a decrease of $1,284,745 as compared to $1,440,120 for the same period last year. We generated a net income for the three months ended March 31, 2016 of $1,130,476, a change of $2,287,507 from the three months ended March 31, 2015, during which we incurred a net loss of $1,157,031. In addition to the change in profitability, the decrease in net cash used in operating activities was the result of several factors, including:

 

A reversal of provision on financial guarantee services of $1,411,494 was made during the three months ended March 31, 2016 due to payments from certain financial guarantee customers who were previously classified as “loss customers” as of December 31, 2015, as compared to an accrual of provision on financial guarantee services of $278,898 was made during the three months ended March 31, 2015;

 

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The decrease in changes in interest receivable by $456,359. The interest receivable increased by nil and $456,359 as of March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, as compared to December 31, 2015 and 2014. This is mainly attributable to a significant increase in long-aged loans during the three months ended March 31, 2016, leading to reversal of interest receivable;

 

The decrease in changes in other receivable by $231,855. The other asset decreased by $83,691 while increased by $148,164 as of March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, as compared to December 31, 2015 and 2014. This is mainly attributable to a significant decrease in court filing fees and legal fees which were claimed from default customers in legal cases adjudicated by the Court in favor of the Company.

 

Net Cash Provided by Investing Activities 

 

Net cash provided by investing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was $2,697,663 as compared to net cash provided by investing activities of $506,463 for the three months ended March 31, 2015. The cash provided by investing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was mainly collection of principals of $1,373,611 from third party customers of direct loan business, and payments of $1,411,494 from third party customers of financial guarantee services. The cash provided by investing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was mainly caused by payment on behalf of default guarantees of $1,998,014, loan disbursement to third party customers of $17,290,541, netting off collection from guarantees for loan paid on behalf of $1,943,762, collection from direct loan business of $18,037,907, and installment repayment from direct financing lease customers of $59,862.

 

Net Cash Used in Financing Activities

 

Net cash used in financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2016 totaled $2,599,210 as compared to net cash used in financing activities of $1,627,498 for the three months ended March 31, 2015. The cash used in financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 was mainly attributable the repayment of bank borrowing of $2,599,210 and $1,627,498, respectively.

 

Contractual Obligations

 

As of March 31, 2016, the annual amounts of future minimum payments under certain of our contractual obligations were:

 

  

Payment due by period

(Unaudited)

 
   Total   Less than 
1 year
   1-2 years   2-3 years   3-5 years   5 years 
and after
 
Contractual obligations:                        
Short term bank loans (1)  $-   $-   $-   $-   $-   $- 
Operating lease (2) (3)   366,946    61,158    73,389    73,389    146,778    12,232 
   $366,946   $61,158   $73,389   $73,389   $146,778   $12,232 

 

(1)As of March 31, 2016, the Company repaid all outstanding bank borrowings. The bank borrowings bear an average annual interest rate of 6.31%.

 

(2)Our prior lease for our office in Wujiang commenced on October 1, 2013 and would expire on December 31, 2018. In October 2015, we terminated this office lease as we leased a new office (see note 3). No penalty was paid for early termination.

 

(3)During the year ended December 31, 2015, we leased a new office. The new lease commenced on June 1, 2015 and will expire on May 31, 2021. The Company has the right to extend the lease before its expiration with a one-month's prior written notice.

 

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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

These financial guarantee contracts consist of providing guarantees to banks on behalf of borrowers to help them obtain loans from banks. The contract amounts reflect the extent of involvement the Company has in the guarantee business and also represents the Company’s maximum exposure to credit loss.

 

The Company is party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its borrowers. Financial instruments whose contract amounts represent credit risk are as follows.

 

   March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   December 31,
2015
 
Guarantee  $11,729,864   $11,653,342 

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

We prepare our financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP, which requires us to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect our reported amount of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, and reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. We continually evaluate these estimates and assumptions based on the most recently available information, our own historical experience and various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Since the use of estimates is an integral component of the financial reporting process, actual results could differ from our expectations as a result of changes in our estimates.

 

An accounting policy is considered critical if it requires an accounting estimate to be made based on assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain at the time such estimate is made and if different accounting estimates that reasonably could have been used, or changes in the accounting estimates that are reasonably likely to occur, could materially impact the condensed financial statements. We believe that the following accounting policies involve a higher degree of judgment and complexity in their application and require us to make significant accounting estimates. The following descriptions of critical accounting policies, judgments and estimates should be read in conjunction with our condensed financial statements and other disclosures included in this report.

 

Termination of VIE agreements with Pride Information

 

On April 11, 2015, WFOE delivered a notice of termination to Pride Information. As a result, the contractual arrangements between WFOE, Pride Information and Mr. Qin were terminated effective on May 11, 2015 and WFOE no longer controls Pride Information.

 

Pride Information operates an online portal (www.pridelendingclub.com) to match prospective borrowers with lenders. As of May 11, 2015, Pride Information was in the beginning stage of operation and had generated minimal revenue. The derecognition of Pride Information was accounted for as a deconsolidation.

 

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Revenue recognition

 

Revenue is recognized when there are probable economic benefits to the Company and when the revenue can be measured reliably, on the following:

 

Interest income on loans. Interest on loan receivables is accrued monthly in accordance with their contractual terms and recorded in accrued interest receivable. The Company does not charge prepayment penalty from customers. Additionally, any previously accrued but uncollected interest is discontinued of accrual and reversed, when either (i) reasonable doubt exists as to the full, timely collection of interest or principal or (ii) when a loan becomes past due by more than 90 days.

 

Commission on guarantee service. The Company receives the commissions from guarantee services in full at inception and records as unearned income before amortizing it throughout the period of guarantee.

 

Income on direct financing lease. The financing agreements are classified as direct financing lease as prescribed by the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB Codification"). Revenues representing the capitalized costs of the investment are recognized as income upon inception of the leases. The portion of revenues representing the difference between the gross investment in the lease (the sum of the minimum lease payments and the guaranteed residual value, if any) and the sum of the present value of the two components is recorded as unearned income and amortized over the lease term

 

Taxes assessed by governmental authorities that are directly imposed on revenue-producing transactions between the Company and its customers (which may include, but are not limited to, sales, use, value added and some excise taxes) are excluded from revenues.

 

Lessees are responsible for all taxes, insurance and maintenance costs.

 

Non-interest income. Non-interest income mainly includes rental income from the sub-leasing of certain of the Company’s leased office space to third parties and income from disposal of property and equipment

 

Loans receivable, net

 

Loans receivable primarily represent loan amount due from customers. The management has the intent and ability to hold such receivable for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff. Loans receivable are recorded at unpaid principal balances, net of allowance for loan losses that reflects the Company’s best estimate of the amounts that will not be collected. Loan origination and commitment fees and certain direct loan origination costs collected from customers are directly recorded in current year interests and fees on loans. The loans receivable portfolio consists of corporate loans and personal loans (Note 6). The Company does not charge loan origination and commitment fees.

 

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Allowance for loan losses and loan impairment

 

The allowance for loan losses is increased by charges to income and decreased by charge offs (net of recoveries). Recoveries represent subsequent collection of amounts previously charged-off. The increase in allowance for loan losses is the netting effect of “reversal” and “provision” for both business and personal loans. If the ending balance of the allowance for loan losses after any charge offs (net of recoveries) is less than the beginning balance, it will be recorded as a “reversal” if it is larger, it will be recorded as a “provision” in the allowance for loan loss. The netting amount of the “reversal” and the “provision” is presented in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

 

The Company recognizes a charge-off when management determines that full repayment of a loan is not probable. The primary factor in making that determination is the potential outcome of a lawsuit against the delinquent debtor. The Company will recognize a charge-off when the Company loses contact with the delinquent borrower for more than six months or when the court rules against the Company to seize the collateral asset of the delinquent debt from either the guarantor or borrower.

 

The allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level believed to be reasonable by management to absorb probable losses inherent in the portfolio as of each balance sheet date. The allowance is based on factors such as the size and current risk characteristics of the portfolio, an assessment of individual loan and actual loss, delinquency, and/or risk rating record within the portfolio. The Company evaluates its allowance for loan losses on a quarterly basis or more often as necessary.

 

The allowance is calculated at portfolio-level since our loans portfolio is typically of smaller balance homogenous loans and is collectively evaluated for impairment. Additionally, the management also reviewed the portfolio on a loan by loan basis and individually evaluated each loan for impairment if any.

 

For the purpose of calculating portfolio-level reserves, we have grouped our loans into two portfolio segments: Corporate and Personal. The allowance consists of the combination of a quantitative assessment component based on statistical models, a retrospective evaluation of actual loss information to loss forecasts, value of collaterals and could include a qualitative component based on management judgment.

 

In estimating the probable loss of the loan portfolio, the Company also considers qualitative factors such as current economic conditions and/or events in specific industries and geographical areas, including unemployment levels, trends in real estate values, peer comparisons, and other pertinent factors such as regulatory guidance. Finally, as appropriate, the Company also considers individual borrower circumstances and the condition and fair value of the loan collateral, if any.

 

In addition, the Company calculates the provision amount as below:

 

1. General Reserve - is based on total loan receivable balance and to be used to cover unidentified probable loan loss. According to management assessment, the General Reserve is required to be no less than 1% of total loan receivable balance.

 

2. Special Reserve - is fund set aside covering losses due to risks related to a particular country, region, industry, company or type of loans. The reserve rate could be decided based on management estimate of loan collectability. The Loan portfolio did not include any loans outside of the PRC.

 

While management uses the best information available to make loan loss allowance evaluations, adjustments to the allowance may be necessary based on changes in economic and other conditions or changes in accounting guidance.

 

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Income Tax

 

Current income tax expenses are provided for in accordance with the laws of the relevant taxing authorities. As part of the process of preparing financial statements, the Company is required to estimate its income taxes in each of the jurisdictions in which it operates. The Company accounts for income taxes using the liability approach. Under this method, deferred income taxes are recognized for tax consequences in future years of differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements at each year-end and tax loss carry forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates applicable for the differences that are expected to affect taxable income.

 

Recently issued accounting standards

 

In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). Under the new guidance, lessees will be required recognize the following for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases) at the commencement date: 1) A lease liability, which is a lessee's obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis; and 2) A right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee's right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. The new lease guidance simplified the accounting for sale and leaseback transactions primarily because lessees must recognize lease assets and lease liabilities. Lessees will no longer be provided with a source of off-balance sheet financing. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those years. The Company is evaluating this ASU and has not determined the effect of this standard on its ongoing financial reporting.

 

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ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES 

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Based on an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, the Company’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act were not effective as of March 31, 2016 to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) rules and forms, and (ii) accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

  

Inherent Limitations Over Internal Controls

 

The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S GAAP. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:

 

i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the Company’s assets;

 

ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and that the Company’s receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of the Company’s management and directors; and

 

iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Management, including the Company’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer, does not expect that the Company’s internal controls will prevent or detect all errors and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of internal controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, have been detected. Also, any evaluation of the effectiveness of controls in future periods are subject to the risk that those internal controls may become inadequate because of changes in business conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended March 31, 2016 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

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PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

The Company is involved in various legal actions arising in the ordinary course of its business. As of March 31, 2016, the Company was involved in 106 lawsuits, among which 69 were related to its loan business and 37 were related to guarantee business. The Company initiated legal proceedings to collect delinquent balances from borrowers and guarantees. 84 of these cases with an aggregated claim of $39.63 million have been adjudicated by the Court in favor of the Company and these cases are settled or in the process of enforcement. The remaining 22 cases with an aggregated claim of $15.02 million have not been adjudicated by the Court as of March 31, 2016.

 

On August 6, 2014, a purported shareholder Andrew Dennison filed a putative class action complaint in the United States District Court District of New Jersey (the “N.J. district court”) relating to a July 25, 2014 press release about the Company’s progress in recovering a significant portion of the $5.4 million the Company paid in the first quarter of 2014 on behalf of loan guarantee customers. The action, Andrew Dennison v. China Commercial Credit, Inc., et al., Case No. 2:2014-cv-04956, alleges that the Company and its current and former officers and directors Huichun Qin, Long Yi, Jianming Yin, Jinggen Ling, Xiangdong Xiao, and John F. Levy violated the federal securities laws by misrepresenting in prior public filings certain material facts about the risks associated with its loan guarantee business. On October 2, 2014, purported shareholders Zhang Yun and Sanjiv Mehrotra (the “Yun Group”) asserted substantially similar claims against the same defendants in a putative class action captioned Zhang Yun v. China Commercial Credit, Inc., et al., Case No. 2:14-cv-06136 (D. N.J.). Neither complaint states the amount of damages sought.

 

On or about October 6, 2014, Dennison, the Yun Group and another purported shareholder, Jason Stark, filed motions to consolidate the cases, be appointed as lead plaintiff and to have their respective counsel appointed as lead counsel. On October 31, 2014, the N.J. district court entered an order consolidating the cases under the caption “In re China Commercial Credit Inc. Securities Litigation” and appointing the Yun Group as lead plaintiff (“Class Plaintiff”) and the Yun Group’s counsel as lead counsel.

 

On November 18, 2014, the Yun Group and the Company, which at that point was the only defendant served, entered into a stipulation to transfer of the case to the Southern District of New York. On December 18, 2014, Mr. Levy, who had by then been served, joined in the stipulation. On December 29, 2014, the N.J. district court entered an order transferring the action. The transfer was effected on January 22, 2015, and assigned docket number 1:15-cv-00557-ALC (S.D.N.Y.) (the “Securities Class Action”).

 

Under the schedule stipulated by the parties, the Yun Group was to file an amended complaint within 60 days of the date that the transfer was effected, and the defendants’ date to answer or move was within 60 days of that filing. On April 7, 2015, the Class Plaintiff filed a Second Amended Class Action Complaint (the “CAC”). The CAC also asserts securities law claims against defendants Axiom Capital Management, Inc., Burnham Securities Inc. and ViewTrade Securities, Inc. (collectively, the “Underwriter Defendants”). The CAC alleges that the Company engaged in a fraudulent scheme by engaging in undisclosed and improper lending practices and made misleading representations regarding its underwriting policies, the loan portfolio quality, the loan loss allowance, compliance with U.S. GAAP and its internal control systems.

 

In accordance with the Court’s procedures, the Company and Mr. Levy and the Underwriter Defendants requested a Pre-Motion Conference in anticipation of filing a motion to dismiss the CAC, which was held on June 25, 2015. At the conference, the Court adjourned the date to answer or move in order to provide the Class Plaintiff with time to serve certain overseas defendants. After the conference, the Class Plaintiff voluntarily dismissed Jianming Yin, Jinggen Ling and Xiangdong Xiao from the action, and Long Yi agreed to waive service, which left Huichun Qin as the sole remaining defendant to serve. The case remains stayed pending service of Huichun Qin.

 

On April 22, 2016, the Company entered into a Stipulation and Agreement of Settlement (the “Stipulation”) to settle the Securities Class Action. The Stipulation resolves the claims asserted against the Company and certain of its current and former officers and directors in the Securities Class Action without any admission or concession of wrongdoing or liability by the Company or the other defendants. The Stipulation also provides, among other things, a settlement payment by the Company of $225,000 in cash and the issuance of 750,000 shares of its common stock (the “Settlement Shares”) to the class members. The terms of the Stipulation are subject to approval by the Court following notice to all class members. The issuance of the Settlement Shares is expected to be exempt from registration pursuant to Section 3(a)(10) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

Two of the Underwriter Defendants, Axiom Capital Management, Inc., and ViewTrade Securities, Inc., have asserted their respective rights to indemnification under the Underwriting Agreements entered into in connection with the Company’s initial public offering and secondary offering. On or about March 16, 2016, CCCR entered into an Advance Funding and Escrow Agreement, under which the CCCR agreed to deposit shares into escrow to fund the advancement obligation, with the initial deposit to be shares valued at Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($200,000), based upon 80% of the 30 day volume weighted average trading price for each of the 30 consecutive trading days prior to the date of the agreement.

 

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On February 3, 2015, a purported shareholder Kiram Kodali filed a putative shareholder derivative complaint in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, captioned Kiran Kodali v. Huichun Qin, et al., Case No. 15-cv-806. The action alleges that the Company and its current and former officers and directors Huichun Qin, Long Yi, Jianming Yin, Jinggen Ling, Chunfang Shen, John F. Levy, Xiaofang Shen and Chunjiang Yu violated their fiduciary duties, grossly mismanaged the Company and were unjustly enriched based upon the transfer that was the subject of the Internal Review and other grounds substantially similar to those asserted in the class action complaints. Kodali did not serve a demand upon the Company and alleges that demand is excused. The Company and Mr. Levy have been served. An amended derivative complaint was filed on April 20, 2015. On May 29, 2015, the Court “so ordered” a stipulation among Kodali, the Company and Mr. Levy staying all proceedings in the derivative case except for service of process on individual defendants until the earlier of thirty days of termination of the stipulation, dismissal of the class action with prejudice or the date any of the defendants in the class action file an answer to the CAC. The Company believes that this lawsuit is without merit and intends to vigorously defend against it. At this stage of the proceedings, the Company is not able to estimate the probability of success or loss.

 

On May 18, 2015, WFOE filed a civil complaint against Huichun Qin with the Wujiang Region Suzhou City People’s Court claiming Mr. Qin’s misappropriation of RMB 7 million in July 2014. The complaint was rejected due to a procedural issue. The Company has since learned that Mr. Qin has been convicted and sentenced to a term of incarceration of approximately five years. In view of this information, the Company is evaluating its strategic options.

 

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

 

On January 13 and April 27, 2016, the Company issued 6,000 and 15,000 shares of its common stock, respectively, to John Levy, the director of the Company, for his services provided. On April 27, 2016, the Company issued 190,000 shares of its common stock to Jingen Lin, the Company’s CEO, and 155,000 shares of its common stock to Long Yi, the Company’s CFO, for their services provided.

 

The shares were issued in reliance upon the exemptions from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, set forth in Section 4(a)(2) thereof as transactions by the Company not involving any public offering. 

 

ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

 

None.

 

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Resignation of Qinyan Yang

 

On May 12, 2016, Ms. Qinyan Yang tendered her resignation to the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of China Commercial Credit, Inc. (the “Company”), effective immediately. The reason for Ms. Yang’s resignation is personal and is not in connection with any disagreement with the Company on any matter.

 

Appointment of Weiliang Jie

 

Effective May 15, 2016, the Board appointed Mr. Weiliang Jie to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Ms. Yang. In addition to serving on the Board, Mr. Jie will serve on the Board’s Audit, Nominating and Corporate Governance, and Compensation committees. Mr. Jie will also serve as the chair of the Compensation Committee.

 

Mr. Jie, age 28, is currently working as the General Manager at Shenzhen Yilegou Mobile Technology Co, Ltd., an e-commerce technology and service company. From 2008 through 2015, he was the Marketing Manager at Shenzhen Tianhe Union Technology Co, Ltd., a company engaging in business aviation services and network technology development. Prior to that he worked at Shenzhen Mango Travel Service Co., Ltd.

 

There are no understandings or arrangements between Mr. Jie and any other person pursuant to which Mr. Jie was selected as a director. There is no family relationship between Mr. Jie and any director or executive officer of the Company. Mr. Jie has not been involved in any transaction with the Company during the past two years that would require disclosure under Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K.

 

Mr. Jie has entered into independent director agreements (the “Offer Letter”) with the Company, which establishes terms and conditions governing his service on the Company’s Board. Pursuant to the Offer Letter, Mr. Jie will not receive any compensation for his services on the Board but will be reimbursed for reasonable and approved expenses incurred in connection with his performance of services as a director. The Offer Letter is qualified in its entirety by reference to the complete text of the agreement, which is filed hereto as Exhibit 10.1.

 

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ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

 

The following exhibits are filed herewith:

 

Exhibit
No.
  Description
    
10.1*  Director Offer Letter, dated May 15, 2016 by and between the Company and Weiliang Jie
31.1*  Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
31.2*  Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
32.1**  Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.2**  Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
101.INS*  XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH*  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL*  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF*  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB*  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE*  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

 

*Filed herewith.

**Furnished herewith. 

 

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SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

May 17, 2016 CHINA COMMERCIAL CREDIT, INC.
   
  By: /s/ Jingen Lin
    Jingen Lin
    Chief Executive Officer
    (Principal Executive Officer)
     
  By: /s/ Long Yi
    Long Yi
   

Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 

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Exhibit
No.
  Description
     
10.1*   Director Offer Letter, dated May 15, 2016 by and between the Company and Weiliang Jie
31.1*   Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
31.2*   Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
32.1**   Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.2**   Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
101.INS*   XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH*   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL*   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF*   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB*   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE*   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

 

*Filed herewith.

**Furnished herewith. 

 

 

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