CYANOTECH CORP - Quarter Report: 2023 September (Form 10-Q)

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Report and other presentations made by Cyanotech Corporation (“CYAN”) and its subsidiary contain “forward-looking statements,” which include statements that are predictive in nature, depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and usually include words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plan,” “believes,” “predicts”, “estimates” or similar expressions. In addition, any statement concerning future financial performance, ongoing business strategies or prospects and possible future actions are also forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based upon current expectations and projections about future events and are subject to risks, uncertainties and the accuracy of assumptions concerning CYAN and its subsidiary (collectively, the “Company”), the performance of the industry in which CYAN does business, and economic and market factors, among other things. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of the Report, presentation or filing in which they are made. Except to the extent required by the Federal Securities Laws, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Our forward-looking statements in this Report include, but are not limited to:

These forward-looking statements are subject to risk, uncertainties and assumptions about us and our operations that are subject to change based on various important factors, some of which are beyond our control, including those factors described in Item 2 of Part I of this quarterly report and in Item 1A of Part I of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 27, 2023. Additionally, the following factors, among others, could cause our financial performance to differ significantly from the goals, plans, objectives, intentions and expectations expressed in our forward-looking statements:

It is not possible to predict or identify all potential risks and uncertainties and the above referenced factors and list do not comprise a complete list of all potential risks and uncertainties. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any of our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary in material respects from those projected in any forward-looking statement contained in this report. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this report and are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements included in or incorporated by reference into this report. Except as is required by law, the Company expressly disclaims any obligation to publicly release any revisions to forward-looking statements to reflect events after the date of this report. Throughout this report, Cyanotech Corporation, together with its subsidiary, are referred to as “the Company.”

PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.  Financial Statements

CYANOTECH CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements

CYANOTECH CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements

CYANOTECH CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Unaudited)

Three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022

Six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements

CYANOTECH CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Dollars in thousands)

(Unaudited)

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements 

CYANOTECH CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

September 30, 2023

(Unaudited)

Cyanotech Corporation (the “Company”), located in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, was incorporated in the state of Nevada on March 3, 1983, and is listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol “CYAN”. The Company is engaged in the production of natural products derived from microalgae for the nutritional supplements market.

The Company is an agricultural company that produces high value natural products derived from microalgae grown in complex and intricate open-pond agricultural systems on the Kona coast of Hawaii.  The Company's products include Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica®, a superfood with numerous benefits, including boosting the immune system and overall cellular health; and BioAstin® Hawaiian Astaxanthin®, a powerful antioxidant shown to support and maintain the body's natural inflammatory response.

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information pursuant to the instructions to Form 10-Q and Regulation S-X of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). These interim condensed consolidated financial statements are unaudited and, in the opinion of management, include all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments and accruals) necessary to present fairly the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations, Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity and Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the periods presented in accordance with GAAP.

Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full fiscal year. The Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of March 31, 2023 was derived from the audited consolidated financial statements. These condensed consolidated financial statements and notes should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2023, contained in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K as filed with the SEC on June 27, 2023. 

Liquidity and Going Concern

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements as of and for the three and six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, and as of March 31, 2023, have been prepared assuming the Company will continue as a going concern. The going concern assumption contemplates the realization of assets and satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business. The Company sustained operating losses and negative cash flows from operation for most of these same periods. Further, as discussed below, the Company was not in compliance with a debt covenant requirement at March 31, 2023 and First Foundation Bank (the “Bank”) instituted a freeze on additional advances from the Revolving Credit Agreement (“Credit Agreement”). These conditions raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. The condensed consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments to the carrying amounts and classification of assets, liabilities, and reported expense that may be necessary if the Company was unable to continue as a going concern.

As of September 30, 2023, the Company had cash of $1,236,000 and working capital of $4,026,000 compared to $974,000 and $5,393,000, respectively, as of March 31, 2023. The Company has a Credit Agreement with the Bank that provided for borrowings up to $2,000,000 on a revolving basis, however, as part of the covenant waiver at March 31, 2023, the borrowings under this line of credit were frozen at the outstanding balance on June 22, 2023, at $1,770,000. As of September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, the Company had outstanding borrowings of $1,480,000 and $1,540,000, respectively, on the line of credit.  The line of credit, which was subject to renewal on August 30, 2023, was converted on October 13, 2023 to a term loan with no further advances or distributions and matures on August 30, 2024. (See Note 5).

The Company also has a loan facility with a related party that allows the Company to borrow up to $2,000,000 on a revolving basis (the “Revolver”). At September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, the Company had $1,000,000 and $500,000, respectively, outstanding borrowings on the Revolver, which were included in line of credit – related party on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Revolver expires on April 12, 2025 (see Notes 5 and 12).

As of September 30, 2023, the Company had $3,343,000 of debt (“Term Loans”) payable to the Bank that require the payment of principal and interest monthly through August 2032. Pursuant to the Term Loans and the Credit Agreement, the Company is subject to annual financial covenants, customary affirmative and negative covenants and certain subjective acceleration clauses. As of March 31, 2023, the Company debt service coverage ratio fell short of the Bank’s annual requirement. On June 22, 2023, the Bank provided the Company with a letter waiving the covenant violation as of March 31, 2023, but noting that the Bank reserved its right to declare a default in the future if any covenants remain out of compliance at applicable measurement dates.

In April 2019, the Company obtained a loan in the amount of $1,500,000 from a related party. The proceeds were used to pay down accounts payable and for general operating capital purposes. On April 12, 2021, December 14, 2022 and August 14, 2023, the Company amended this loan (see Notes 5 and 12). As of both September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, the Company had $1,000,000 outstanding on the related party note. The loan matures on April 12, 2025.

The Company continues to experience a loss from operations as the impacts from the macroeconomic environment continued to lead to lower sales across the majority of the Company's portfolio on a year-to-date basis.  Since the second quarter of fiscal year 2023, the Company drew a net of $1,480,000 on its line of credit and $1,000,000 on the Revolver.  To address the resulting cash flow challenges, the Company continues to monitor cost savings initiatives implemented in fiscal year 2023, including stopping or slowing production of inventory in alignment with current customer demand, maintaining a reduced headcount and compensation, primarily through attrition and furloughs, respectively, and eliminating certain discretionary selling, general and administrative expenses.

Funds generated by operating activities and available cash are the Company’s most significant sources of liquidity for working capital requirements, debt service and funding of maintenance levels of capital expenditures.  The Company has developed its operating plan to produce the cash flows necessary to meet all financing requirements.  Although the Company has a history of either being in compliance with debt covenants, or obtaining the necessary waivers, execution of its operating plan is dependent on many factors, some of which are not within the control of the Company. However, no assurances can be provided that the Company will achieve its operating plan and cash flow projections for this fiscal year or its projected consolidated financial position as of September 30, 2024. Such estimates are subject to change based on future results and such change could cause future results to vary significantly from expected results.

Consolidation

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Cyanotech Corporation and its wholly owned subsidiary, Nutrex Hawaii, Inc. (“Nutrex Hawaii” or “Nutrex”, collectively the “Company”). All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosures of any contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the periods reported.  Management reviews these estimates and assumptions periodically and reflects the effect of revisions in the period that they are determined to be necessary.  Actual results could differ from those estimates and assumptions.

Cash

Cash primarily consists of cash on hand and cash in bank deposits.

Concentration Risk

A significant portion of revenues and accounts receivables are derived from a few major customers. For the three months ended September 30, 2023, two customers individually accounted for 42% and 16% of the Company’s total net sales, and for the three months ended September 30, 2022, one customer accounted for 48% of the Company’s total net sales. For the six months ended September 30, 2023, two customers individually accounted for 38% and 17% of the Company’s total net sales, and for the six months ended September 30, 2022, two customers individually accounted for 35% and 10% of the Company’s total net sales. Two customers accounted for 94% and 46% of the Company’s accounts receivable balance as of September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, respectively.

Accounts Receivable

Accounts receivable balances are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not accrue interest. Credit is extended based on evaluation of the customer’s financial condition. Collateral is not required. The allowance for credit losses reflects management’s best estimate of expected credit losses inherent in the accounts receivable balance. Management determines the allowances based on historical experience, specifically identified nonpaying customers and other currently available evidence, including the likelihood of each customer not being able to pay, due to the Company’s small customer and recurring customer base. Management reviews its customer account balances monthly with a focus on significant individual past due balances over 90 days. All other balances are reviewed on a pooled basis. Account balances are charged off against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote. The Company does not have any off-balance sheet credit exposure related to its customers or otherwise.

Revenue Recognition

The Company records revenue based on the five-step model which includes: (1) identifying the contract with the customer; (2) identifying the performance obligations in the contract; (3) determining the transaction price; (4) allocating the transaction price to the performance obligations; and (5) recognizing revenue when the performance obligations are satisfied. Substantially all of the Company’s revenue is generated by fulfilling orders for the purchase of its microalgal dietary supplements to retailers, wholesalers, or direct to consumers via online channels, with each order considered to be a distinct performance obligation. These orders may be formal purchase orders, verbal phone orders, e-mail orders or orders received online. Shipping and handling activities for which the Company is responsible under the terms and conditions of the order are not accounted for as performance obligations but as fulfillment costs. These activities are required to fulfill the Company’s promise to transfer the goods and are expensed when revenue is recognized. 

Revenue is measured as the net amount of consideration expected to be received in exchange for fulfilling a performance obligation. The Company has elected to exclude sales, use and similar taxes from the measurement of the transaction price.  The amount of consideration expected to be received and revenue recognized includes estimates of variable consideration, which includes costs for trade promotion programs, coupons, returns and early payment discounts.  Such estimates are calculated using historical averages adjusted for any expected changes due to current business conditions and experience. The Company reviews and updates these estimates at the end of each reporting period and the impact of any adjustments are recognized in the period the adjustments are identified. In assessing whether collection of consideration from a customer is probable, the Company considers the customer's ability and intent to pay that amount of consideration when it is due. Payment of invoices is due as specified in the underlying customer agreement, typically 30 days from the invoice date, which occurs on the date of transfer of control of the products to the customer. Revenue is recognized at the point in time that control of the ordered products is transferred to the customer. Generally, this occurs when the product is delivered, or in some cases, picked up from one of the Company’s distribution centers by the customer. Revenue from extraction services is recognized when control is transferred upon completion of the extraction process.

Customer contract liabilities consist of customer deposits received in advance of fulfilling an order and are shown separately on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. During the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, the Company recognized $3,000 and $0, respectively, of revenue from deposits that were included in contract liabilities as of March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. During the six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, the Company recognized $18,000 and $91,000, respectively, of revenue from deposits that were included in contract liabilities as of March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Company’s contracts have a duration of one year or less and therefore, the Company has elected the practical expedient of not disclosing revenues allocated to partially unsatisfied performance obligations.

Disaggregation of Revenue

The following table represents revenue disaggregated by major product line and extraction services for the:

Recently Accounting Pronouncements

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Financial Instruments – Credit Losses” (“Topic 326”), which was subsequently amended in November 2018 through ASU 2018-19, “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses” (“CECL”). CECL requires entities to estimate lifetime expected credit losses for trade and other receivables, net investment in leases, financing receivables, debt securities and other instruments, which will result in earlier recognition of credit losses. The guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2022. The Company adopted this standard as of April 1, 2023, however, due to the relatively short-term nature of its accounts receivable and history of limited bad debt expense, the impact of this guidance was not significant to the Company’s consolidated financial statements and related disclosure. The Company will continue to evaluate the impact of CECL going forward.

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost is determined by the first-in, first-out method. Inventories consist of the following as of:

The Company recognizes abnormal production costs, including fixed cost variances from normal production capacity, fixed production overhead costs, idle facilities, freight handling costs and spoilage, as an expense in the period incurred, without adjusting overhead absorption rates. Normal production capacity is defined as the production expected to be achieved over a number of periods or seasons under normal circumstances, taking into account the loss of capacity resulting from planned maintenance. The Company had no abnormal production costs for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022. The Company expensed abnormal production costs of $133,000 and $0 to cost of sales for the six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Beginning in fiscal year 2021 through fiscal year 2023, cultivation of astaxanthin was completed in the first six months of the fiscal year during the most productive months of the year due to the best growing conditions, compared to year-round production in the prior fiscal years. In fiscal year 2024, cultivation of astaxanthin will be year-round in order to manage staffing constraints. The Company calculates total production costs for the year based on normal capacity of production expected to be achieved in a year under normal circumstances. These costs are then allocated into inventory based on the period of production, not including abnormal production costs. Allocating fixed and overhead costs requires management’s judgement to determine when production is outside of the normal range of expected variation in production.

Other non-inventoriable fixed costs of $136,000 and $34,000 were expensed to cost of sales for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Other non-inventoriable fixed costs of $325,000 and $69,000 were expensed to cost of sales for the six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Equipment and leasehold improvements consist of the following as of:

Management has determined that no asset impairment existed as of September 30, 2023. Depreciation and amortization expense were approximately $404,000 and $417,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Depreciation and amortization expense were approximately $811,000 and $834,000 for the six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Total debt consists of the following as of:

Line of Credit and Term Loans

On August 30, 2016, the Credit Agreement, which the Company entered into with the Bank on June 3, 2016, became effective after the Company and the Bank received the necessary approvals from the State of Hawaii to secure the lien on the Company’s leasehold property in Kona, Hawaii. The Credit Agreement allowed the Company to borrow up to $2,000,000 on a revolving basis. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement bear interest at the Wall Street Journal prime rate (8.5% at September 30, 2023 and 8.0% at March 31, 2023) plus 2%, floating, provided that at no time shall the annual interest rate be less than 5.25%.

At September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, the outstanding balance under the Credit Agreement was $1,480,000 and $1,540,000, respectively, was included in current liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The line of credit, which is subject to annual renewal, was converted on October 13, 2023, to a term loan, with no further advances or disbursements under this line and matures on August 30, 2024. The term loan requires monthly payments of $40,000 plus interest accrued on the unpaid balance of the loan at the Wall Street Journal prime rate plus 2%, floating, provided that at no time shall the annual interest rate be less than 7.0%.

The Credit Agreement grants the Bank the following security interests in the Company’s property: (a) a lien on the Company’s leasehold interest in its Kona facility; (b) an assignment of the Company’s interest in leases and rents on its Kona facility; and (c) a security interest in all fixtures, furnishings and equipment related to or used by the Company at the Kona facility. Each security interest is further subject to the terms of the Credit Agreement.

In 2012, the Company executed a loan agreement with a lender providing for $5,500,000 in aggregate credit facilities (the “2012 Loan”) secured by substantially all the Company’s assets, including a mortgage on the Company's interest in its lease at the National Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority, pursuant to a Term Loan Agreement dated August 14, 2012 (the “2012 Loan Agreement”). The 2012 Loan is evidenced by promissory notes in the amounts of $2,250,000 and $3,250,000, the repayment of which is partially guaranteed under the provisions of a United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) Rural Development Guarantee program. The proceeds of the 2012 Loan were used to acquire processing equipment and leasehold improvements at its Kona, Hawaii facility.

The provisions of the 2012 Loan required the payment of interest only for the first 12 months of the term; thereafter, and until its maturity on August 14, 2032, the obligation fully amortizes over nineteen (19) years. Interest on the 2012 Loan accrues on the outstanding principal balance at an annual variable rate equal to the published Wall Street Journal prime rate (8.25% and 7.5% at September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, respectively) plus 1.0% and is adjustable on the first day of each calendar quarter and fixed for that quarter, provided that at no time shall the annual interest rate be less than 5.5%. The balance under the 2012 Loan was $3,343,000 and $3,461,000 at September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, respectively, and was included in current maturities of long-term debt in the debt table above. See Loan Covenants, Violations and Waiver below.

The 2012 Loan included a one-time origination and guaranty fees totaling $214,500 and an annual renewal fee payable in the amount of 0.25% of the USDA guaranteed portion of the outstanding principal balance as of December 31 of each year, beginning December 31, 2012. The USDA has guaranteed 80% of all amounts owing under the 2012 Loan. The balance in unamortized debt issuance costs was $86,000 and $92,000 at September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, respectively, and was included in current maturities of long-term debt in the debt table above. See Loan Covenants, Violations and Waiver below.

Loan Covenants, Violation and Waiver

The Company’s Credit Agreement and the 2012 Loan are subject to annual debt service and other financial covenants, including covenants which require the Company to meet key financial ratios and customary affirmative and negative covenants.  As of March 31, 2023, the Company was not in compliance with the required debt service coverage ratio, however, was in compliance with the two other covenants. Due to this violation, the Bank would be contractually entitled to require immediate repayment of the outstanding term loans and the outstanding line of credit balance. However, on June 22, 2023, the Bank issued the Company a letter waiving the covenant violation as of March 31, 2023, and implemented an immediate freeze on any and all further advances of the Credit Agreement through the maturity date, with an outstanding balance in the amount of $1,770,000 as of June 21, 2023. The next remeasurement date will be March 31, 2024.

Line of Credit and Debt – Related Party

In April 2019, the Company obtained a loan in the amount of $1,500,000 with a related party and the interest was payable quarterly.  The loan was originally due in April 2021. In April 2021, the Company amended the loan, which extended the expiration to April 2024, converted $500,000 into the Revolver, adjusted the interest rate to reflect a floor of 5%, and granted a security interest in substantially all of the Company’s personal property assets, subject to limited exceptions. Concurrently, with the amendment and conversion of the original loan, the Company repaid in cash the principal amount of $500,000 plus accrued interest to date of $1,900 (see Note 12).  In December 2022, the Company amended the loan to extend the expiration to April 2025 and increase the Revolver to $1,000,000. On August 14, 2023, the Company amended the loan to increase the Revolver to $2,000,000.

At both September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, the balance under this loan was $1,000,000, which was included in long-term debt in the debt table above. At September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, the balance under the Revolver was $1,000,000 and $500,000, respectively, which was included in line of credit – related party in the debt table above. Interest accrues on the outstanding principal balance and the Revolver at an annual variable rate equal to the published Wall Street Journal prime rate (8.25% and 7.5% at September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, respectively) plus 1.0% and is adjustable on the first day of each calendar quarter and fixed for that quarter, provided that at no time shall the annual interest rate be less than 5.0%.

Future principal payments under the loans at September 30, 2023 are as follows:

The Company leases facilities, equipment and land under non-cancelable operating leases expiring through 2037. One of its facility leases contains price escalations and a renewal option for five years. Right-of-use assets represent the right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Right-of-use assets and liabilities were recognized at April 1, 2019 based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term, using the Bank’s incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at recognition, and the Company has elected to exclude non-lease components. The Company also leases two 84-month solar leases for two of its buildings, which are included in the right-of-use assets and liabilities. At September 30, 2023, the weighted average remaining lease terms of all operating leases was 9.4 years, the weighted average discount rate was 7.3%, and for the six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, the operating lease costs were $409,000 and $344,000, respectively.

Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases consist of the following as of:

Maturities of lease liabilities at September 30, 2023 are as follows:

Accrued expenses consist of the following as of:

From time to time, the Company may be involved in litigation and investigations relating to claims and matters arising out of its operations in the normal course of business. There were no significant legal matters outstanding at September 30, 2023.

The Company has share-based compensation plans, which are more fully described in Note 9, Share-Based Compensation, to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023 as filed with the SEC on June 27, 2023.

As of September 30, 2023, the Company had two equity-based compensation plans: the 2016 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2016 Plan”) and the 2014 Independent Director Stock Option and Restricted Stock Grant Plan and Amendment (the “2014 Directors Plan”). These plans allowed the Company to award stock options and shares of restricted common stock to eligible employees, certain outside consultants and independent directors.

The following table presents shares authorized, available for future grant and outstanding under each of the Company’s plans:

Stock Options

All stock option grants made under the equity-based compensation plans were issued at exercise prices no less than the Company’s closing stock price on the date of grant. Options under the 2016 Plan and 2014 Directors Plan were determined by the Board of Directors or the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors in accordance with the provisions of the respective plans.  The terms of each option grant include vesting, exercise, and other conditions set forth in a Stock Option Agreement evidencing each grant. No option can have a life in excess of ten (10) years. The Company records compensation expense for employee stock options based on the estimated fair value of the options on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The model requires various assumptions, including a risk-free interest rate, the expected term of the options, the expected stock price volatility over the expected term of the options, and the expected dividend yield. Compensation expense for employee stock options is recognized ratably over the vesting term. Compensation expense recognized for options issued under all Plans was $24,000 for both the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022. Compensation expense recognized for options issued under all Plans was $50,000 and $41,000 for the six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

A summary of option activity under the Company’s stock plans for the six months ended September 30, 2023 is presented below: 

The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above is before applicable income taxes and represents the excess amount over the exercise price optionees would have received if all options had been exercised on the last business day of the period indicated, based on the Company’s closing stock price of $0.80 and $0.88 at September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, respectively.

A summary of the Company’s non-vested options for the six months ended September 30, 2023 is presented below:

The weighted average grant-date fair value of stock options granted during the six months ended September 30, 2023 was $24,000. As of September 30, 2023, total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to all unvested stock options was $99,000, which is expected to be expensed over a weighted average period of 1.5 years.

Restricted Stock 

Grants of fully vested restricted stock issued to Non-Employee Directors during the six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 were 159,493 and 64,489, respectively. Compensation expense recognized for fully vested restricted stock grants under the 2014 Directors Plan was $126,000 and $158,000 for both the three and six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

To reduce the Company’s ongoing cash expenses, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board of Directors adopted a resolution allowing each director to elect to receive his or her quarterly director fees in the form of restricted stock in lieu of cash. Two Board members elected to receive shares of restricted stock in lieu of cash for the third fiscal quarter of 2023. On April 3, 2023, 17,672 shares of fully vested restricted stock were issued to the two Board members. For the six months ended September 30, 2023, there was no compensation expense related to the issuance of this stock, as it was earned and recognized in fiscal year 2023 in the amount of $15,500.

For the second fiscal quarter of 2024, one Board member elected to receive shares of restricted stock in lieu of cash and on October 13, 2023, 12,821 shares of fully vested restricted stock were issued. As of September 30, 2023, $10,000 related to this stock issuance was included in accrued expenses in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”) 

RSUs are service-based awards granted to eligible employees under the 2016 Plan. Compensation expense recognized for RSUs issued under the 2016 Plan was $25,000 and $17,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Compensation expense recognized for RSUs issued under the 2016 Plan was $46,000 and $22,000 for the six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

The following table summarizes information related to awarded RSUs:

As of September 30, 2023, total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to unvested restricted stock units was $107,000, which is expected to be expensed over a weighted average period of 1.8 years.

The Company utilizes its estimated annual effective tax rate to determine its provision or benefit for income taxes for interim periods. The income tax provision or benefit is computed by multiplying the estimated annual effective tax rate by the year-to-date pre-tax book income (loss). The Company recorded $2,000 and $0 of income tax expense for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Company’s effective tax rate was (0.3%) and 0% for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Company recorded $2,000 and $3,000 of income tax expense for the six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Company’s effective tax rate was (0.1%) and 0% for the six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The effective tax rates differ from the statutory rate of 21% as a result of state taxes (net of federal benefit) and the net change in valuation allowance against the net deferred tax asset the Company believes is not more likely than not to be realized.  The Company continues to carry a full valuation allowance on its net deferred tax assets.

The Company is subject to taxation in the United States and eight state jurisdictions. The preparation of tax returns requires management to interpret the applicable tax laws and regulations in effect in such jurisdictions, which could affect the amount of tax paid by the Company. Management, in consultation with its tax advisors, files its tax returns based on interpretations that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. The income tax returns, however, are subject to routine reviews by the various taxing authorities.  As part of these reviews, a taxing authority may disagree with respect to the tax positions taken by management (“uncertain tax positions”) and therefore may require the Company to pay additional taxes. Management evaluates the requirement for additional tax accruals, including interest and penalties, which the Company could incur as a result of the ultimate resolution of its uncertain tax positions. Management reviews and updates the accrual for uncertain tax positions as more definitive information becomes available from taxing authorities, completion of tax audits, expiration of statute of limitations, or upon occurrence of other events.

As of September 30, 2023 and 2022, there was no liability for income tax associated with unrecognized tax benefits. The Company recognizes accrued interest related to unrecognized tax benefits as well as any related penalties in interest income or expense in its Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations, which is consistent with the recognition of these items in prior reporting periods.

With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state, local, and non-U.S. income tax examination by tax authorities for tax years before 2019. 

Basic earnings (loss) per share is computed on the basis of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings (loss) per share is computed on the basis of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus the potentially dilutive effect of outstanding stock options using the treasury stock method.

Reconciliations between the numerator and the denominator of the basic and diluted (loss) income per share computations for the three and six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:

Basic and diluted per share amounts are the same in periods of a net loss because common share equivalents are anti-dilutive when a net loss is recorded. Diluted earnings per share does not include the impact of common stock options and restricted stock units totaling 1,000 and 5,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and 2,000 and 7,000 for the six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively, as the effect of their inclusion would be anti-dilutive. Restricted stock units become dilutive within the period granted and remain dilutive until the units vest and are then included in the calculation of basic earnings per share.

In April 2019, the Company obtained an unsecured subordinated loan from Skywords Family Foundation, Inc. (“Skywords”) in the principal amount of $1,500,000 pursuant to a Promissory Note (the "Skywords Note”) executed by the Company in favor of Skywords. Skywords is controlled by the Company’s Chairman of the Board of Directors and largest stockholder. The Skywords Note bore interest at a rate of 1% plus the prime rate (as published by the Wall Street Journal), which was recalculated and payable on a quarterly basis. The principal amount and any accrued and unpaid interest were due and payable on April 12, 2021. The proceeds of the Skywords Note were used to pay down accounts payable and for general operating capital purposes.

On April 12, 2021, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Promissory Note (the “Skywords Amended Note”) with Skywords. The Company and Skywords agreed to amend, restate, replace and otherwise modify without novation, the Skywords Note in order to convert $500,000 of the outstanding principal amount into revolving loans that may be prepaid and reborrowed from time to time in principal amounts not to exceed $500,000, extend the maturity date by three years, adjust the interest rate to reflect a floor of 5% and secure Skywords’ interest by granting a security interest in substantially all of the Company’s personal property assets, subject to limited exceptions (the “Collateral”). On April 12, 2021, concurrently with the conversion, the Company repaid in cash to Skywords, the principal amount of $500,000 plus accrued interest to date of $1,900. The Skywords Amended Note bears interest at a rate of 1% plus the prime rate (as published by the Wall Street Journal), which will be recalculated and payable on a quarterly basis, provided that at no time shall the annual interest rate be less than 5%. The Company may prepay the Skywords Amended Note at any time without penalty.

On April 12, 2021, in connection with the grant of a security interest in the Collateral, the Company also entered into an Intercreditor and Subordination Agreement with the Bank and Skywords. The Company is indebted to the Bank pursuant to two Term Loans and a Credit Agreement, each of which granted the Bank a security interest in substantially all of the Company’s personal property assets. The Bank’s security interest in the Company’s personal property assets ranks senior to Skywords’ security interest in the Collateral, and the Intercreditor and Subordination Agreement generally governs the relationship between the Bank and Skywords as secured lenders to the Company and includes customary terms.

On December 14, 2022, the Company entered into a First Amendment (the “First Amendment”) to the Skywords Amended Note. The First Amendment extends the maturity date to April 12, 2025 and increases the revolving amount that the Company may borrow from time to time under the Skywords Amended Note from $500,000 to $1,000,000. All other terms of the Skywords Amended Note remain the same.

On August 14, 2023, the Company entered into a Second Amendment (the “Second Amendment”) to the Skywords Amended Note. The Second Amendment increases the revolving amount that the Company may borrow from time to time under the Skywords Amended Note from $1,000,000 to $2,000,000. All other terms of the Skywords Amended Note remain the same.

At both September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, the Skywords Note principal balance was $1,000,000, and was included in long-term debt on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. At September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, the balance on the Revolver was $1,000,000 and $500,000, respectively, and was included in line of credit – related party on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. At September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, the interest rates were 9.25% and 8.5%, respectively.

The Company had no subsequent events, other than those mentioned in Note 5 regarding the Bank converting the line of credit to a term loan and in Note 9 for Restricted Stock issued in October 2023.

Overview:

We are an agricultural company and a world leader in the production of natural products derived from microalgae grown in complex and intricate agricultural systems on the Kona coast of Hawaii. Incorporated in 1983, we are guided by the principle of providing beneficial, quality microalgal products for health and human nutrition in a sustainable, reliable and environmentally sensitive operation. We are Good Manufacturing Practices (“GMP”) certified by the Merieux NutriSciences, reinforcing our commitment to quality in our products, quality in our relationships (with our customers, suppliers, employees and the communities we live in), and quality of the environment in which we work. Our products include:

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Microalgae are a diverse group of microscopic plants that have a wide range of physiological and biochemical characteristics and contain, among other things, high levels of natural protein, amino acids, vitamins, pigments and enzymes. Microalgae have the following properties that make commercial production attractive: (1) microalgae grow much faster than land grown plants, often up to 100 times faster; (2) microalgae have uniform cell structures with no bark, stems, branches or leaves, permitting easier extraction of products and higher utilization of the microalgae cells; and (3) the cellular uniformity of microalgae makes it practical to control the growing environment in order to optimize a particular cell characteristic. Efficient and effective cultivation of microalgae requires consistent light, warm temperatures, low rainfall and proper chemical balance in a very nutrient-rich environment, free of environmental contaminants and unwanted organisms. This is a challenge that has motivated us to design, develop and implement proprietary production and harvesting technologies, systems and processes in order to commercially produce human dietary supplement products derived from microalgae.

Our production of these products at the 96-acre facility on the Kona Coast of the island of Hawaii provides several benefits. We selected the Keahole Point location in order to take advantage of relatively consistent warm temperatures, sunshine and low levels of rainfall needed for optimal cultivation of microalgae. This location also offers us access to cold deep ocean water, drawn from an offshore depth of 2,000 feet, which we use in our Ocean-Chill Drying system to eliminate the oxidative damage caused by standard drying techniques and as a source of trace nutrients for microalgal cultures. The area is also designated a Biosecure Zone, with tight control of organisms allowed into the area and free of genetically modified organisms (“GMO”). We believe that our technology, systems, processes and favorable growing location generally permit year-round harvest of our microalgal products in a cost-effective manner.

Results of Operations

The following tables present selected consolidated financial data for each of the periods indicated ($ in thousands):

Comparison of the Three Months Ended September 30, 2023 and 2022

Net Sales The net sales increase of 23.1% for the current quarter compared to the same period last year was driven by an increase in astaxanthin and spirulina packaged sales and astaxanthin bulk sales. During the current year quarter, we saw increased sales primarily due the timing of shipments, offset slightly by continued overall lower demand in spirulina bulk sales. For astaxanthin and spirulina packaged sales, the timing more closely aligns with consumer movement.

Gross Profit Gross profit as a percent of net sales for the second quarter of fiscal 2024 decreased by 1.8 percentage points compared to the same period last year, which was the result of higher costs related to lower production volumes.

Operating Expenses Operating expenses of $2.7 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2024 compared to the prior year same quarter, remained relatively flat. Sales and marketing expenses increased slightly primarily due to higher online selling fees, offset by lower general and administrative and research and development costs.

Income Taxes We recorded income tax expense of $2,000 for minimum state taxes for the second quarter of fiscal 2024 compared to no income tax expense for the same period last year. We continue to carry a full valuation allowance on our net deferred tax assets.

Comparison of the Six Months Ended September 30, 2023 and 2022

Net Sales The net sales decrease of 3.2% for the first six months of fiscal year 2024 compared to the same period last year was driven by a decrease in spirulina bulk sales, offset by increases in astaxanthin and spirulina packaged sales and astaxanthin bulk sales, primarily due to the timing and higher demand at one of our key customers.

Gross Profit Gross profit as a percent of net sales for the first six months of fiscal 2024 decreased by 3.1 percentage points compared to the same period last year, which was the result of higher costs related to lower production volumes.

Operating Expenses Operating expenses of $5.5 million for the first six months of fiscal 2024 compared to the prior year same period, increased slightly, primarily due to higher online selling fees, offset by lower general and administrative and research and development costs.

Income Taxes We recorded an income tax expense of $2,000 for the first six months of fiscal 2024 compared to an income tax expense of $3,000 for the same period last year. We continue to carry a full valuation allowance on our net deferred tax assets.

Liquidity and Going Concern

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements as of and for the three and six months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, and as of March 31, 2023, have been prepared assuming we will continue as a going concern. The going concern assumption contemplates the realization of assets and satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business. We sustained operating losses and negative cash flows from operation for most of these same periods. Further, as discussed below, the Company was not in compliance with a debt covenant requirement at March 31, 2023 and the Bank instituted a freeze on additional advances from the Credit Agreement. These conditions raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. The condensed consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments to the carrying amounts and classification of assets, liabilities, and reported expense that may be necessary if we were unable to continue as a going concern.

As of September 30, 2023, we had cash of $1.2 million and working capital of $4.0 million compared to $1.0 million and $5.4 million, respectively, at March 31, 2023. We have a Credit Agreement with the Bank that provided for borrowings up to $2.0 million on a revolving basis, however, as part of the covenant waiver at March 31, 2023, the borrowings under this line of credit were frozen at the outstanding balance on June 22, 2023, at $1.8 million. As of September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, we had outstanding borrowings of $1.48 million and $1.54 million, respectively, on the line of credit. The line of credit, which was subject to renewal on August 30, 2023, was converted on October 13, 2023, to a term loan with no further advances or distributions and matures on August 30, 2024. (See Note 5 in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements).

We also have a loan facility with a related party that allows us to borrow up to $2.0 million on the Revolver. At September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, we had $1.0 million and $0.5, respectively, outstanding borrowings on the Revolver, which were included in line of credit – related party on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Revolver expires on April 12, 2025 (see Notes 5 and 12 in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements).

As of September 30, 2023, we had $3.3 million in Term Loans payable to the Bank that require the payment of principal and interest monthly through August 2032. Pursuant to the Term Loans and the Credit Agreement, we are subject to annual financial covenants, customary affirmative and negative covenants and certain subjective acceleration clauses. As of March 31, 2023, our debt service coverage ratio fell short of the Bank’s annual requirement. On June 22, 2023, the Bank provided us with a letter waiving the covenant violation as of March 31, 2023, but noting that the Bank reserved its right to declare a default in the future if any covenants remain out of compliance at applicable measurement dates.

In April 2019, we obtained a loan in the amount of $1.5 million from a related party. The proceeds were used to pay down accounts payable and for general operating capital purposes. On April 12, 2021, December 14, 2022 and August 14, 2023, we amended this loan (see Notes 5 and 12 in the notes to condensed consolidated financial statements). As of both September 30, 2023 and March 31, 2023, we had $1.0 million outstanding on the related party note. The loan matures on April 12, 2025.

We continue to experience a loss from operations as the impacts from the macroeconomic environment have continued to lead to lower sales across the majority of our portfolio on a year-to-date basis.  Since the second quarter of fiscal year 2023, we drew a net of $1.5 million on our line of credit and $1.0 million on the Revolver.  To address the resulting cash flow challenges, we continue to monitor cost savings initiatives implemented in fiscal year 2023, including stopping or slowing production of inventory in alignment with current customer demand, maintaining a reduced headcount and compensation, primarily through attrition and furloughs, respectively, and eliminating certain discretionary selling, general and administrative expenses.

Funds generated by operating activities and available cash are our most significant sources of liquidity for working capital requirements, debt service and funding of maintenance levels of capital expenditures. We have developed our operating plan to produce the cash flows necessary to meet all financing requirements.  Although we have a history of either being in compliance with debt covenants or obtaining the necessary waivers, execution of our operating plan is dependent on many factors, some of which are not within the control of the Company.  However, no assurances can be provided that we will achieve our operating plan and cash flow projections for this fiscal year or our projected consolidated financial position as of September 30, 2024. Such estimates are subject to change based on future results and such change could cause future results to vary significantly from expected results.

Cash Flows The following table summarizes our cash flows for the periods indicated ($ in thousands):

Cash provided by operating activities for the six months ended September 30, 2023 was the result of a decrease in inventories and an increase in accounts payable, offset by net loss of $2.2 million and non-cash charges of $1.3 million.

Cash used in investing activities for the six months ended September 30, 2023 primarily includes costs for capital improvements at our Kona facility.

Cash provided by financing activities for the six months ended September 30, 2023 consists primarily of draws on the related party line of credit of $500,000 offset by debt service payments of $118,000.

Sources and Uses of Capital

As of September 30, 2023, our working capital was $4.0 million, a decrease of $1.4 million compared to March 31, 2023. There was a decrease in inventories in the first six months of fiscal year 2024 as we manage our production in line with sales demand, offset by the start-up of astaxanthin cultivation in April, as well as draws on our related party line of credit.

Our results of operations and financial condition can be affected by numerous factors, many of which are beyond our control and could cause future results of operations to fluctuate materially as it has in the past. Future operating results may fluctuate as a result of changes in sales volumes to our largest customers, weather patterns, increased competition, increased materials, nutrient and energy costs, government regulations and other factors beyond our control.

A significant portion of our expense levels are relatively fixed, so the timing of increases in expenses is based in large part on forecasts of future sales. If net sales are below expectations in any given period, the adverse impact on results of operations may be magnified by our inability to adjust spending quickly enough to compensate for the sales shortfall. We may also choose to reduce prices or increase spending in response to market conditions, which may have a material adverse effect on financial condition and results of operations.

Outlook 

This outlook section contains a number of forward-looking statements, all of which are based on current expectations. Actual results may differ materially.

Our strategic direction has been to position as a world leader in the production and marketing of high-value natural products from microalgae. We are vertically aligned, producing raw materials in the form of microalgae processed at our 96-acre facility in Hawaii, and integrating those raw materials into finished products. Our primary focus is stabilizing our production volume, rationalizing market channel participation, and leveraging our centers of core competence. We will continue to place emphasis on our Nutrex Hawaiian consumer products while exploring further opportunities for bulk sales orders for Spirulina and Astaxanthin, both domestically and internationally. Extraction services to third party customers utilizing our 1,000 bar super critical CO2 extractor process are expected to generate additional income throughout the year. We will leverage our experience and reputation for quality, nutritional products which promote health and well-being. The foundation of our nutritional products is naturally cultivated Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica® in powder and tablet form; and BioAstin® Hawaiian Astaxanthin® antioxidant in extract and softgel form. Information about our Company and our products can be viewed at www.cyanotech.com and www.nutrex-hawaii.com. Consumer products can also be purchased online at www.nutrex-hawaii.com.

Gross profit margin percentages going forward can be impacted by lower production volumes along with pressure on input costs as well as greater competition in the market place. This could cause margins to decline in future periods. We will continue to focus on higher margin consumer products that promote health and well-being and strive for continuous improvements in processes and production methods to stabilize costs and production levels for the future. However, significant sales variability between periods may occur based on historical results.

Producing the highest quality microalgae is a complex biological process which requires balancing numerous factors including microalgal strain variation, temperature, acidity, nutrient and other environmental considerations, some of which are not within our control. An imbalance or unexpected event can occur resulting in production levels below normal capacity. The allocation of fixed production overheads (such as depreciation, rent and general insurance) to inventories is determined based on normal production capacity. When our production volumes are below normal capacity limits, certain fixed production overhead costs cannot be inventoried and are recorded immediately in cost of sales. In addition, when production costs exceed historical averages, we evaluate whether such costs are one-time-period charges or an ongoing component of inventory cost.

To manage our cash resources effectively, we will balance production with sales demand, minimizing the cost associated with inventory levels when appropriate and manage our expenses judiciously. We could experience unplanned cash outflows and may need to utilize other cash resources to meet working capital needs. A prolonged downturn in sales could impair our ability to generate sufficient cash for operations and hamper our ability to attract additional capital investment which could become necessary to maintain optimal production levels and efficiencies.

Our future results of operations and the other forward-looking statements contained in this Outlook, in particular the statements regarding revenues, gross margin and capital spending, involve a number of risks and uncertainties. In addition to the factors discussed above, any of the following could cause actual results to differ materially: business conditions and growth in the natural products industry and in the general economy; changes in customer order patterns; changes in demand for natural products in general; changes in weather conditions; changes in health and growing conditions of our astaxanthin and spirulina products; competitive factors, such as increased production capacity from competing spirulina and astaxanthin producers and the resulting impact, if any, on world market prices for these products; government actions and increased regulations both domestic and foreign; shortage of manufacturing capacity; and other factors beyond our control. Risk factors are discussed in detail in Part II, Item 1A of this quarterly report and in Part I, Item 1A of our Form 10-K report for the year ended March 31, 2023.

We believe that our technology, systems, processes and favorable growing location generally permit year-round harvest of our microalgal products in a cost-effective manner. However, previously experienced imbalances in the highly complex biological production systems, together with volatile energy costs and rapidly changing world markets, suggest a need for continuing caution with respect to variables beyond our reasonable control. Therefore, we cannot, and do not attempt to, provide any definitive assurance with regard to our technology, systems, processes, location, or cost-effectiveness.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

As of September 30, 2023, we had no off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

Impact of Inflation

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of materials, utilities and labor affected our operations in fiscal year 2023. In the first half of fiscal year 2024, we have seen stabilization in our underlying costs. We are also experiencing overall lower demand as consumers are feeling the impacts of higher inflation and are re-allocating their spending from goods to experiences and services. Given the lower demand, our bulk spirulina customers have higher than normal inventory levels. The exact impact on our results is difficult to isolate and quantify given the macroeconomic environment. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay for insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease cost for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost of fixed assets and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our critical accounting policies and estimates are disclosed in the “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on June 27, 2023. In the six months ended September 30, 2023, there were no changes to the application of critical accounting policies previously disclosed in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Disclosure Controls and Procedures 

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our chief executive officer (“CEO”) and chief financial officer (“CFO”), we have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15(d)-15(e) of the Exchange Act as of the end of the period covered by this Report. Based on that evaluation, our CEO and CFO have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to provide reasonable assurance that information we are required to disclose in reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is (1) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and (2) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our CEO and CFO, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.  

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act). The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Our management evaluated the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2023. In making this assessment, our management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in “Internal Control - Integrated Framework” (2013 Framework). Based on our assessment, using those criteria, management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of September 30, 2023. 

Changes to Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that occurred during the six months ended September 30, 2023, that has materially affected, or was reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Limitations on the Effectiveness of Controls 

Our management, including our CEO and CFO, do not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures or our internal controls over financial reporting will prevent all errors and all fraud. A control system no matter how well designed and implemented, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the control system’s objectives will be 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.

The inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty, and that breakdowns can occur because of simple errors or mistakes. Controls can also be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, or by collusion of two or more people. Because of the inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected. 

This Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with Item 9A “Controls and Procedures” of the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023, filed June 27, 2023.

From time to time, the Company may be involved in litigation and investigations relating to claims and matters arising out of its operations in the normal course of business. There were no significant legal matters outstanding at September 30, 2023.

For a discussion of the risk factors relating to our business, please refer to Part I, Item 1A of our Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 2023, which is incorporated by reference herein.

None.

None.

None.

SIGNATURES

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

EXHIBIT INDEX