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HOUSTON AMERICAN ENERGY CORP - Quarter Report: 2013 September (Form 10-Q)


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC20549

FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)

x QUARTERLY REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2013

OR

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

For the transition period from ___________ to ______________.

Commission File Number 1-32955

HOUSTON AMERICAN ENERGY CORP.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
 
76-0675953
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(IRS Employer Identification No.)

801 Travis Street, Suite 1425, Houston, Texas77002
 (Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code)

(713) 222-6966
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

 
 (Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

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

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

Indicate by check mark 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. (Check one):

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

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

As of November 1, 2013, we had 52,169,945 shares of $0.001 par value Common Stock outstanding.
 


HOUSTON AMERICAN ENERGY CORP.

FORM 10-Q

INDEX

 
 
Page No.
PART I.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
 
 
 
Item 1.
Financial Statements (Unaudited)
 
 
 
 
 
3
 
 
 
 
4
 
 
 
 
5
 
 
 
 
6
 
 
 
Item 2.
14
 
 
 
Item 3.
20
 
 
 
Item 4.
21
 
 
 
PART II
OTHER INFORMATION
 
 
 
 
Item 1.
21
 
 
 
Item 6.
21
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1 Financial Statements
HOUSTON AMERICAN ENERGY CORP.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)

 
 
September 30,
2013
   
December 31,
2012
 
ASSETS
 
   
 
CURRENT ASSETS
 
   
 
Cash
 
$
8,445,019
   
$
5,626,345
 
Restricted cash – letter of credit
   
     
3,056,250
 
Accounts receivable – other
   
86,507
     
3,436,305
 
Escrow receivable – current
   
2,072,265
     
2,095,228
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
99,025
     
36,539
 
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS
   
10,702,816
     
14,250,667
 
 
               
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
               
Oil and gas properties – full cost method
               
Costs subject to amortization
   
50,312,756
     
47,093,419
 
Costs not being amortized
   
2,976,067
     
5,809,297
 
Office equipment
   
90,004
     
90,004
 
Total property, plant and equipment
   
53,378,827
     
52,992,720
 
Accumulated depreciation, depletion and impairment
   
(50,340,769
)
   
(47,105,751
)
TOTAL PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET
   
3,038,058
     
5,886,969
 
 
               
OTHER ASSETS
               
Other assets
   
3,167
     
3,167
 
TOTAL ASSETS
 
$
13,744,041
   
$
20,140,803
 
 
               
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
CURRENT LIABILITIES
               
Accounts payable
 
$
2,171
   
$
84,740
 
Accrued cash call to operator
   
     
3,219,128
 
Accrued expenses
   
31,335
     
90,923
 
Taxes payable
   
190,181
     
1,711,007
 
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES
   
223,687
     
5,105,798
 
 
               
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES
               
Reserve for plugging and abandonment costs
   
8,286
     
7,872
 
Taxes payable – long-term
   
     
193,398
 
TOTAL LONG-TERM LIABILITIES
   
8,286
     
201,270
 
TOTAL LIABILITIES
   
231,973
     
5,307,068
 
 
               
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
               
 
               
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Common stock, $0.001 par value; 150,000,000 shares authorized; 52,169,945 and 52,180,045 shares issued and outstanding
   
52,170
     
52,180
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
65,240,506
     
63,963,257
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(51,780,608
)
   
(49,181,702
)
TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
   
13,512,068
     
14,833,735
 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
$
13,744,041
   
$
20,140,803
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements.
3

HOUSTON AMERICAN ENERGY CORP.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
FOR THE THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2013 AND 2012
(Unaudited)
 
 
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
   
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
 
 
2013
   
2012
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
OIL AND GAS REVENUE
 
$
204,566
   
$
387,609
   
$
170,311
   
$
30,752
 
 
                               
EXPENSES OF OPERATIONS
                               
Lease operating expense and severance tax
   
52,030
     
172,252
     
32,398
     
13,604
 
Joint venture expenses
   
     
3,243
     
     
 
General and administrative expense
   
2,830,338
     
4,078,514
     
656,473
     
965,325
 
Impairment of oil and gas properties
   
     
37,803,088
     
     
1,174,169
 
Bad debt expense
   
     
3,951,370
     
     
3,951,370
 
Gain on sale of oil and gas properties
   
(86,025
)
   
(484,371
)
   
     
(169,252
)
Depreciation and depletion
   
15,890
     
61,507
     
7,688
     
6,040
 
Total operating expenses
   
2,812,233
     
45,585,603
     
696,559
     
5,941,256
 
 
                               
Loss from operations
   
(2,607,667
)
   
(45,197,994
)
   
(526,248
)
   
(5,910,504
)
 
                               
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
                               
Interest income
   
14,417
     
8,889
     
1,486
     
2,196
 
Other expense
   
(19,289
)
   
(70,687
)
   
     
(26,674
)
Total other income (expense)
   
(4,872
)
   
(61,798
)
   
1,486
     
(24,478
)
 
                               
Net loss before taxes
   
(2,612,539
)
   
(45,259,792
)
   
(524,762
)
   
(5,934,982
)
 
                               
Income tax expense (benefit)
   
(13,633
)
   
3,366,096
     
1,702
     
731
 
 
                               
Net loss
 
$
(2,598,906
)
 
$
(48,625,888
)
 
$
(526,464
)
 
$
(5,935,713
)
 
                               
Basic and diluted loss per common share
 
$
(0.05
)
 
$
(1.41
)
 
$
(0.01
)
 
$
(0.16
)
 
                               
Basic and diluted weighted average common shares outstanding
   
52,177,792
     
34,468,880
     
52,173,359
     
37,365,230
 
 
                               
COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
                               
Net loss
 
$
(2,598,906
)
 
$
(48,625,888
)
 
$
(526,464
)
 
$
(5,935,713
)
Unrealized gain/(loss) on marketable securities
   
     
(249,562
)
   
     
143,743
 
Net comprehensive loss
 
$
(2,598,906
)
 
$
(48,875,450
)
 
$
(526,464
)
 
$
(5,791,970
)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements.
4

HOUSTON AMERICAN ENERGY CORP.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2013 AND 2012
(Unaudited)

 
 
For the Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
 
 
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
   
 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
 
   
 
Net loss
 
$
(2,598,906
)
 
$
(48,625,888
)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operations:
               
Depreciation and depletion
   
15,890
     
61,507
 
Stock-based compensation
   
1,277,239
     
1,655,526
 
Impairment of oil and gas properties
   
     
37,803,088
 
Bad debt expense
   
     
3,951,370
 
Accretion of asset retirement obligation
   
414
     
786
 
Amortization of deferred rent
   
     
(3,620
)
Gain on sale of oil and gas properties – Colombia
   
(86,025
)    
(484,371
)
Deferred tax asset
   
     
3,195,583
 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
               
Accounts receivable
   
3,349,798
     
40,361
 
Prepaid expense
   
(62,486
)
   
(64,553
)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
   
(1,856,381
)
   
27,128
 
 
               
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
   
39,543
     
(2,443,083
)
 
               
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
               
Restricted cash released
   
3,056,250
     
 
Payments for the acquisition and development of oil and gas properties
   
(386,107
)
   
(20,440,938
)
Proceeds from sale of Colombian oil and gas properties, net of expenses
   
86,025
     
1,027,068
 
Proceeds from escrow receivable
   
22,963
     
147,581
 
Purchase of marketable securities
   
     
(156,817
)
 
               
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
   
2,779,131
     
(19,423,106
)
 
               
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
               
Proceeds from sale of common stock and warrants
   
     
13,144,000
 
Payment of offering costs
   
     
(1,017,850
)
 
               
Net cash provided by financing activities
   
     
12,126,150
 
 
               
Increase (decrease) in cash
   
2,818,674
     
(9,740,039
)
Cash, beginning of period
   
5,626,345
     
9,930,284
 
Cash, end of period
 
$
8,445,019
   
$
190,245
 
 
               
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
               
Interest paid
 
$
   
$
 
Income taxes paid
 
$
1,700,608
   
$
172,997
 
 
               
NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES
               
Accrued oil and gas development cost
 
$
   
$
3,590,000
 
Sales price of oil and gas properties placed in escrow
 
$
   
$
166,995
 
Unrealized loss on available for sale securities
 
$
   
$
249,562
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements.
5

HOUSTON AMERICAN ENERGY CORP.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)

NOTE 1 – BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Houston American Energy Corp., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q.  They do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for a complete financial presentation. In the opinion of management, all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, considered necessary for a fair presentation, have been included in the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements.  Operating results for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year.

These unaudited consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements and footnotes, which are included as part of the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012.

Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include all accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries (HAEC Louisiana E&P, Inc. and HAEC Caddo Lake E&P, Inc.). All significant inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Accounting Principles and Use of Estimates

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In preparing financial statements, management makes informed judgments and estimates that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and affect the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. On an ongoing basis, management reviews its estimates, including those related to such potential matters as litigation, environmental liabilities, income taxes and the related valuation allowance, determination of proved reserves of oil and gas and asset retirement obligations. Changes in facts and circumstances may result in revised estimates and actual results may differ from these estimates.

Concentration of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk include cash, cash equivalents and any marketable securities. The Company had cash deposits of $7,921,465 in excess of the FDIC’s current insured limit of $250,000 as of September 30, 2013. The Company has not experienced any losses on its deposits of cash and cash equivalents.

Loss per Share

Basic loss per share is computed by dividing net loss available to common shareholders by the weighted average common shares outstanding for the period.  Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common shares were exercised or converted into common shares that then shared in the earnings of the Company.  The Company’s only outstanding potentially dilutive securities are options and warrants.  Using the treasury stock method, outstanding ‘in-the-money’ options would have increased our diluted weighted average shares outstanding by 0 shares for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and by approximately 55,000 and 1,723,401 shares, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012; however, due to losses during these periods, these options were excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation because their effect would have been anti-dilutive.

Subsequent Events

The Company has evaluated all transactions from September 30, 2013 through the financial statement issuance date for subsequent event disclosure consideration.
6

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

No accounting standards or interpretations issued recently are expected to a have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, operations or cash flows.

NOTE 2 – RESTRICTED CASH

At December 31, 2012, the Company had Restricted Cash – Letter of Credit in the amount of $3,056,250 attributable to funds posted as collateral to secure a standby letter of credit.  During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the letter of credit obligation was terminated and the cash securing the letter of credit was returned to the Company eliminating the Restricted Cash – Letter of Credit balance.  See Note 8 – Commitments and Contingencies – Standby Letter of Credit – CPO 4 Block.

NOTE 3 – ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE – OTHER

Tax Refund

At December 31, 2012, the Company had established an account receivable – other relating to an estimated federal income tax refund in the amount of approximately $3.3 million.  During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company collected the income tax refund receivable.

Hupecol Operating, LLC

During 2011, Hupecol Operating, LLC (“Hupecol”) disbursed funds from a 5% contingency escrow established with a portion of the proceeds from the sale of Hupecol Dorotea & Cabiona Holdings, LLC (“HDC, LLC”), to pay certain operating expenses incurred on behalf of the purchaser of these entities.  Hupecol is currently seeking reimbursement from the purchaser for these expenses as part of the post-closing process and expects to collect within the next twelve months.  As a result of this activity, the Company has established a receivable from Hupecol for the Company’s proportionate share of the escrow funds disbursed for these expenses of $86,507.  The amount due from Hupecol is classified as accounts receivable – other in the accompanying balance sheet.

NOTE 4 – COMPREHENSIVE LOSS – UNREALIZED LOSS ON MARKETABLE SECURITIES

During 2012, the Company held common stock in a publicly traded company.  This investment was classified as marketable securities - available for sale and, accordingly, any unrealized changes in market values were recognized as other comprehensive income in the consolidated statements of operations. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, the Company purchased additional common shares in the same publicly traded company at a cost of $156,817 and recognized other comprehensive gain/(losses) during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 of $143,743 and $(249,562), respectively, reflecting the unrealized changes in value of this investment as of September 30, 2012.  All of the securities were sold during 2012 and, accordingly, no marketable securities were owned at September 30, 2013 nor did the Company report any unrealized gain/(loss) on marketable securities during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013.

NOTE 5 – ESCROW RECEIVABLE

At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company’s balance sheet reflected the following escrow receivables relating to various oil and gas properties previously held by the Company:

 
 
Balance as of September 30, 2013
 
Description
 
Current
   
Noncurrent
   
Total
 
 
   
   
 
Tambaqui Escrow
 
$
22,029
   
$
   
$
22,029
 
HDC LLC & HL LLC 15% Escrow
   
1,827,929
     
     
1,827,929
 
HDC LLC & HL LLC Contingency
   
57,321
     
     
57,321
 
HC LLC 13.33% Escrow
   
151,048
     
     
151,048
 
HC LLC Contingency
   
13,938
     
     
13,938
 
TOTAL
 
$
2,072,265
   
$
   
$
2,072,265
 
7

 
Balance as of December 31, 2012
 
Description
 
Current
   
Noncurrent
   
Total
 
             
Tambaqui Escrow
 
$
22,029
   
$
   
$
22,029
 
HDC LLC and HL LLC 15% Escrow
   
1,827,929
     
     
1,827,929
 
HDC LLC and HL LLC Contingency
   
57,321
     
     
57,321
 
HC LLC 13.33% Escrow
   
151,048
     
     
151,048
 
HC LLC Contingency
   
36,901
     
     
36,901
 
TOTAL
 
$
2,095,228
   
$
   
$
2,095,228
 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, changes in the escrow receivables related to a release of $22,963 from the HC LLC Contingency escrow.

NOTE 6 – OIL AND GAS PROPERTIES

During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company invested $386,107 for the development of oil and gas properties, consisting of (1) preparation and evaluation costs in Colombia of $139,080, and (2)costs on U.S. properties of $247,027. Of the amount invested, the Company capitalized $209 to oil and gas properties subject to amortization, and $385,898 to oil and gas properties not subject to amortization, primarily attributable to preparation and evaluation costs in Colombia of $139,080 and leasehold costs in the U.S. of $130,568, drilling costs of $116,250 and lease costs of $209.

Drilling Commitments and Operations

During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company agreed to participate in drilling operations on four U.S. prospects.  The Company’s share of costs relating to the initial test wells on those four prospects is estimated at $1,100,000, of which costs incurred during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 totaled $116,250.

Termination of Interest in CPO 4 Prospect

In March 2013, the Company entered into a Settlement Agreement with SK Innovation, operator and principal owner of the CPO 4 prospect.  Pursuant to the terms of the Settlement Agreement, the Company terminated, and agreed to convey to SK Innovation, its entire interest in the CPO 4 prospect and each of the Company and SK Innovation agreed to release any and all claims each may have against the other under the Operating Agreement with respect to the CPO 4 prospect. The Company was relieved of any and all obligations under past, present and future capital calls relating to the CPO 4 prospect, including accrued cash calls at December 31, 2012 of $3,219,128.The Company’s balance sheet reflects a reduction in the cash call obligation and an increase in accumulated depletion, depreciation, amortization and impairment, each in the amount of $3,219,128.

Impairments

In April 2012, the Company, together with the operator, determined to cease efforts to test and complete the Tamandua #1 sidetrack well on the CPO 4 prospect in Colombia.  As a result of the determination to cease efforts to complete the Tamandua #1 well, the Company included the costs related to the Tamandua #1 well in the full cost pool for inclusion in the ceiling test.  The Company recorded impairment charges of $0 and $26,527,300 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, to write off costs not being amortized that were attributable to the drilling of the Tamandua #1 well on the Company’s CPO 4 block as well as to write off seismic exploration and evaluation cost, general and administrative cost and environmental and governmental cost that were attributable to the CPO 4 block through September 30, 2012.

In July 2012, the Company determined to plug and abandon the Cachirre #1 well on the CPO 4 prospect in Colombia.  As a result of such determination, the Company included the costs related to the Cachirre #1 well in the full cost pool for inclusion in the ceiling test at September 30, 2012.  The Company recorded an impairment charges of $1,174,169 and $11,275,788 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 to write off costs not being amortized that were attributable to the drilling of the Cachirre #1 well as well as to write off seismic exploration and evaluation cost, general and administrative cost and environmental and governmental cost that were attributable to the CPO 4 block through September 30, 2012.

8

Sale of Oil and Gas Properties

During the first quarter of 2012, the Company sold all of its interest in HupecolCuerva, LLC (“HC, LLC”), which holds interests in the La Cuerva block and, pending approval of the Colombian authorities, the LLA 62 block, together covering approximately 90,000 acres in the Llanos Basin in Colombia.

HC, LLC sold for $75 million, adjusted for working capital.  13.3% of the sales price of HC, LLC will be held in escrow to fund potential claims arising from the sale.  Pursuant to its 1.6% ownership interest in HC, LLC, the Company received 1.6% in the net sale proceeds after deduction of commissions, overriding royalty interest, and transaction expenses; subject to the escrow holdback and a further contingency holdback by Hupecol of 1.3% of the sales price.  Following completion of the sale of HC, LLC, the Company had no continuing interest in the La Cuerva and LLA 62 blocks.

At December 31, 2011, the Company’s estimated proved reserves associated with the La Cuerva and LLA 62 blocks totaled 94,619 barrels of oil, which represented 82% of the Company’s estimated proved oil and natural gas reserves. Sales of oil and gas properties under the full cost method of accounting are accounted for as adjustments of capitalized costs with no gain or loss recognized, unless the adjustment significantly alters the relationship between capitalized costs and reserves. Since the sale of these oil and gas properties would significantly alter the relationship, the Company recognized a gain on the sale of $315,119 during the nine months ended September 30, 2012, computed as follows:

Sales price
 
$
1,224,393
 
Add: Transfer of asset retirement and other obligations
   
34,471
 
Less: Transaction costs
   
(30,330
)
Less: Prepaid deposits
   
(54,857
)
Less: Carrying value of oil and gas properties, net
   
(858,558
)
Net gain on sale
 
$
315,119
 

The following table presents pro forma data that reflects revenue, income from continuing operations, net loss and loss per common share for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 as if the HC, LLC sale had occurred at the beginning of each period and excludes the gain on sale.

 
Pro Forma Information:
 
Three Months Ended
September 30, 2012
   
Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2012
 
 
 
   
 
Oil and gas revenue
 
$
30,752
   
$
124,424
 
Loss from operations
 
$
(5,910,054
)
 
$
(45,612,086
)
Net loss
 
$
(5,935,713
)
 
$
(49,030,769,
)
 
               
Basic and diluted loss per common share
 
$
(0.16
)
 
$
(1.42
)

The Company currently has operations in two geographical areas, the United States and Colombia. Revenues for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 and Long Lived Assets (net of depletion, amortization, and impairments) as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 attributable to each geographical area are presented below:

 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30, 2013
Revenues
   
Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2013
Revenues
   
 
As of September, 30, 2013
 Long Lived Net Assets
 
 
 
   
   
 
United States
 
$
170,311
   
$
204,566
   
$
1,281,694
 
Colombia
   
     
     
1,756,364
 
Total
 
$
170,311
   
$
204,566
   
$
3,038,058
 

 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30, 2012
Revenues
   
Nine Months Ended
September, 30, 2012
Revenues
   
 
As of December 31, 2012
Long Lived Net Assets
 
 
 
   
   
 
United States
 
$
30,752
   
$
124,424
   
$
1,050,557
 
Colombia
   
     
263,185
     
4,836,412
 
Total
 
$
30,752
   
$
387,609
   
$
5,886,969
 
9

NOTE 7 – STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION EXPENSE AND WARRANTS

The Company periodically grants options to employees, directors and consultants under the Company’s 2005 Stock Option Plan and the Company’s 2008 Equity Incentive Plan (together, the “Plans”).  The Company is required to make estimates of the fair value of the related instruments and recognize expense over the period benefited, usually the vesting period.

In March 2013, the Company’s board of directors approved an amendment to the 2008 Equity Incentive Plan to increase the shares reserved thereunder to 6,000,000 shares, subject to approval of such amendment by the Company’s shareholders, which shareholder approval was received in June 2013.

Stock Option Activity

A summary of stock option activity and related information for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 is presented below:

 
 
 
 
 
Options
   
Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
 
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
 
 
 
   
 
 
Outstanding at January 1, 2013
   
2,443,057
   
$
5.68
 
 
Granted
   
2,215,525
(1) 
   
0.86
 
 
Exercised
   
     
 
 
Forfeited
   
(331,250
)  
$
1.64
 
 
Outstanding at September 30, 2013
   
4,327,332
   
$
3.52
   
$
 
Exercisable at September 30, 2013
   
3,797,332
   
$
3.70
   
$
 

(1) Includes 915,525 options granted in June 2012, the exercise of which options was subject to shareholder approval of an amendment to the Company’s 2008 Equity Incentive Plan to increase the shares reserved for issuance thereunder, which approval was obtained in June 2013.

On June 11, 2012, options to purchase an aggregate of 915,525 shares were granted to employees and non-employee directors, which options were exercisable on and after shareholder approval of an amendment to the Company’s 2008 Equity Incentive Plan to increase the shares reserved under the plan to facilitate exercise.  The options have a ten year life and an exercise price of $1.65. The options granted subject to amendment of the plan were not reflected in stock-based compensation expense at the time of their original grant but are, instead, reflected in the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2013, following receipt of shareholder approval of the plan amendment on June 11, 2013.  The options were valued on the date of shareholder approval at $164,376 using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following parameters:  (1) risk-free interest rate of 1.26%, (2) expected life in years of 5.6, (3) expected stock volatility of 105%, and (4) expected dividend yield of 0%.  The Company determined the options qualify as ‘plain vanilla’ under the provisions of SAB 107 and the simplified method was used to estimate the expected option life.

On June 11, 2013, options to purchase an aggregate of 100,000 shares were granted to non-employee directors and options to purchase an aggregate of 1,200,000 shares were granted to employees.

The 100,000 options granted to non-employee directors vested 20% on the grant date and vest as to the remaining 80% nine months from the grant date, have a ten year life and have an exercise price of $0.3075 per share. The option grants to non-employee directors were valued on the date of grant at $24,507using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following parameters: (1) risk-free interest rate of 1.26%, (2) expected life in years of 5.6, (3) expected stock volatility of 105%, and (4) expected dividend yield of 0%.  The Company determined the options qualify as ‘plain vanilla’ under the provisions of SAB 107 and the simplified method was used to estimate the expected option life.

The 1,200,000 options granted to employees vested 50% on the grant date and vest as to the remaining 50% on the first anniversary of the grant date, have a ten year life and have an exercise price of $0.3075 per share. The option grants to employees were valued on the date of grant at $294,085 using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following parameters: (1) risk-free interest rate of 1.26%, (2) expected life in years of 5.6, (3) expected stock volatility of 105%, and (4) expected dividend yield of 0%.  The Company determined the options qualify as ‘plain vanilla’ under the provisions of SAB 107 and the simplified method was used to estimate the expected option life.
10

In July and August, 2013, respectively, the employment of two officers terminated.  As a result of such terminations, the unvested options granted those officers on June 11, 2013, covering 150,000 shares each, terminated and the same were forfeited.  The remaining options held by those officers, all of which were out-of-the-money at September 30, 2013, covering an aggregate of 1,520,000 shares, will expire three months following the respective termination dates if not exercised prior to such dates.

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company recognized $249,391 and $1,140,853, respectively, of stock compensation expense attributable to the amortization of unrecognized stock-based compensation.

As of September 30, 2013, total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to non-vested stock options was $569,340. The unrecognized expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 0.65 years and the weighted average remaining contractual term of the outstanding options and exercisable options at September 30, 2013 is 7.32 years and 7.19 years, respectively.

Shares available for issuance under the Plans as of September 30, 2013 totaled 1,672,668.

Restricted Stock Activity

During 2011, the Company granted to officers an aggregate of 45,000 shares of restricted stock, which shares vest over a period of three years.  The fair value of $743,400 was determined based on the fair market value of the shares on the date of grant.  This value is being amortized over the vesting period and, during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, $13,314 and $136,386, respectively, was amortized to expense.

As a result of the termination of the two officers noted above, 5,000 shares of restricted stock were forfeited and cancelled with respect to each of the terminated officers. As of September 30, 2013, there was $57,758 of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested restricted stock.  The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately .70 years.

Share-Based Compensation Expense

The following table reflects share-based compensation recorded by the Company for the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:

 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
 
 
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
   
 
Share-based compensation expense included in general and administrative expense
 
$
262,705
   
$
371,361
 
Earnings per common share effect of share-based compensation expense – basic and diluted
 
$
(0.005
)
 
$
(0.01
)

The following table reflects share-based compensation recorded by the Company for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:

 
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
 
 
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
   
 
Share-based compensation expense included in general and administrative expense
 
$
1,277,239
   
$
1,655,526
 
Earnings per common share effect of share-based compensation expense – basic and diluted
 
$
(0.024
)
 
$
(0.05
)

11

NOTE 8 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Lease Commitment

The Company leases office facilities under an operating lease agreement that expires May 31, 2017.  As of September 30, 2013, the lease agreement requires future payments as follows:

Year
 
Amount
 
2013
   
22,263
 
2014
   
91,432
 
2015
   
93,793
 
2016
   
96,162
 
2017
   
40,479
 
Total
 
$
344,129
 

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, the total base rental expense was $23,520 and $67,632, respectively.  The Company does not have any capital leases or other operating lease commitments.

Standby Letter of Credit – CPO 4 Block

On November 5, 2009, JP Morgan Chase issued a Letter of Credit to Banco de Bogota S.A. for $2,037,500. Banco de Bogota then in turn issued a Stand by Letter of Credit to the Agency De National Hydrocarbons to guaranty the Company’s compliance and proper execution of the work obligations relating to the phase one (1) work program of the CPO-4 block for the Company’s 25% interest in the Block. Per the Standby Letter of Credit issued between JP Morgan Chase and Banco de Bogota, the Company was required to keep on deposit with JP Morgan Chase $2,037,500.

On December 2, 2010, JP Morgan Chase amended the Letter of Credit to Banco de Bogota S.A. to increase the total amount of the Letter of Credit to $3,056,250. Banco de Bogota then in turn issued an amended Stand by Letter of Credit to the Agency de National Hydrocarbons to guarantee the Company’s compliance and proper execution of the work obligations relating to the phase one (1) work program for the CPO-4 block for the Company’s 37.5% interest in the Block. Per the amended Standby Letter of Credit issued between JP Morgan Chase and Banco de Bogota, the date of expiration was extended until April 1, 2013 and the Company was required to keep on deposit with JP Morgan Chase $3,056,250. This increase in deposits was related to the Company increasing its interest in the CPO 4 block from 25.0% to 37.5%. All other terms and conditions of the Letter of Credit remained unchanged.  The Company paid Banco de Bogota $13,025 in fees during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 related to the Letter of Credit and recorded the fees as other expense.  The deposit with JP Morgan Chase was classified as restricted cash – letter of credit in the accompanying balance sheet as of December 31, 2012.  Due to the settlement agreement with SK Innovation in which the Company assigned its 37.5% interest in the CPO 4 prospect, the Company did not be renew the Letter of Credit and, in April 2013, the funds securing the Letter of Credit, in the amount of $3,056,250, were released to the Company.

Legal Contingencies

The Company has been the subject of a formal investigation being conducted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Pursuant to the investigation, the Company received subpoenas issued by the SEC. The subpoenas called for the testimony of certain of the Company’s officers and the delivery of certain documents. The subpoenas were issued pursuant to a nonpublic formal order of private investigation issued by the SEC on March 1, 2011, which followed a nonpublic informal inquiry commenced by the SEC in October 2010. The Company received a copy of the nonpublic formal order of private investigation on February 10, 2012 in connection with a subpoena issued by the SEC. The SEC is investigating whether there have been any violations of the federal securities laws and appears to have narrowed the focus of their investigation to matters relating to disclosures in the late 2009 and early 2010 time period regarding resource potential for the CPO 4 prospect.  The Company has presented information supporting its disclosure relative to resource potential on the CPO 4 prospect.  On August 29, 2013, the Company and John Terwilliger received a “Wells” notice advising them that the staff of the SEC has made a preliminary recommendation to initiate an enforcement action and providing them the opportunity to provide reasons of law, policy or fact why the proposed enforcement action should not be filed. The Company has cooperated fully, and is committed to continuing to cooperate fully, with the SEC in this matter. It is not possible at this time to predict the timing or outcome of the SEC investigation, including whether or when any proceedings might be initiated, when these matters may be resolved or what, if any, penalties or other remedies may be imposed, and whether any such penalties or remedies would have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
12

On April 27, 2012, a purported class action lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas against the Company and certain of its executive officers: Steve Silverman v. Houston American Energy Corp. et al., Case No. 4:12-CV-1332.  The complaint generally alleges that, between March 29, 2010 and April 18, 2012, all of the defendants violated Sections 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and SEC Rule 10b-5 and the individual defendants violated Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act in making materially false and misleading statements including certain statements related to the status and viability of the Tamandua #1 well. Two additional class action lawsuits were filed against the Company in May 2012. The complaints seek unspecified damages, interest, attorneys’ fees, and other costs. On September 20, 2012, the court consolidated the class action lawsuits and appointed a lead plaintiff and on November 15, 2012 the lead plaintiffs filed an amended complaint.  On January 14, 2013, we filed a motion to dismiss and, on August 22, 2013, the court granted our motion and dismissed the complaint. The plaintiffs have since filed a Notice of Appeal of the dismissal of the complaint. The Company believes all of the claims in the consolidated class action lawsuits are without merit and intends to vigorously defend against these claims. It is not possible at this time to predict the timing or outcome of the class action lawsuits that have or may be filed. The Company expects to incur costs and to devote management time and resources to defending such lawsuits.

The Company is subject to legal proceedings, claims and liabilities that arise in the ordinary course of its business. The Company accrues for losses associated with legal claims when such losses are probable and can be reasonably estimated. These accruals are adjusted as further information develops or circumstances change. Except as noted, the Company is currently not a party to any known material litigation.

Production Incentive Compensation Plan

In August 2013, the Company’s compensation committee adopted a Production Incentive Compensation Plan.  The purpose of the Plan is to encourage employees and consultants participating in the Plan to identify and secure for the Company participation in attractive oil and gas opportunities.

Under that Plan, the committee may establish one or more Pools and designate employees and consultants to participate in those Pools and designate prospects and wells, and a defined percentage of the Company’s revenues from those wells, to fund those Pools.  Only prospects acquired on or after establishment of the Plan, and excluding all prospects in Colombia, may be designated to fund a Pool.  The maximum percentage of the Company’s share of revenues from a well that may be designated to fund a Pool is 2% (the “Pool Cap”); provided, however, that with respect to wells with a net revenue interest to the 8/8 of less than 73%, the Pool Cap with respect to such wells shall be reduced on a 1-for-1 basis such that no portion of the Company’s revenues from a well may be designated to fund a Pool if the NRI is 71% or less.

Designated participants in a Pool will be assigned a specific percentage out of the Company’s revenues assigned to the Pool and will be paid that percentage of such revenues from all wells designated to such Pool and spud during that participant’s employment or services with the Company.  In no event may the percentage assigned to the Company’s chief executive officer relative to any well within a Pool exceed one-half of the applicable Pool Cap for that well.  Payouts of revenues funded into Pools shall be made to participants not later than 60 days following year end, subject to the committee’s right to make partial interim payouts.  Participants will continue to receive their percentage share of revenues from wells included in a Pool and spud during the term of their employment or service so long as revenues continue to be derived by the Company from those wells even after termination of employment or services of the Participant; provided, however, that a participant’s interest in all Pools shall terminate on the date of termination of employment or services where such termination is for cause.

In the event of certain changes in control of the Company, the acquirer or survivor of such transaction must assume all obligations under the Plan; provided, however, that in lieu of such assumption obligation, the committee may, at its sole discretion, assign overriding royalty interests in wells to substantially mirror the rights of participants under the Plan.  Similarly, the committee may, at any time, assign overriding royalty interests in wells in settlement of obligations under the Plan.

The Plan is administered by the Company’s compensation committee which shall consult with the Company’s chief executive officer relative to Pool participants, prospects, wells and interests assign although the committee will have final and absolute authority to make all such determinations.

13

NOTE 9 – TAXES

The Company has estimated that its effective tax rate for U.S. purposes will be zero for 2013, and consequently, recorded no U.S. income tax liability or tax expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013.  Income tax expense for 2012 was entirely attributable to the Company’s Colombian operations and represents the actual taxes paid or accrued in both Colombia and the United States.

Due to uncertainty regarding ultimate realization, the Company has established a valuation allowance of approximately $20,700,000 to fully reserve the net deferred tax assets as of September 30, 2013.  During 2010, the Company paid federal income taxes totaling $3,344,126.  Due to net operating losses generated in 2011 and 2012, the Company filed an amended 2010 federal income tax return and, during June 2013, received a full refund of this amount.

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, significant temporary differences between financial statement net loss and estimated taxable income related primarily to the impairment of oil and gas properties and the stock compensation expense recognized for book purposes during the period.
 
ITEM 2 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Forward-Looking Information

This Form 10-Q quarterly report of Houston American Energy Corp. (the “Company”) for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created thereby.  To the extent that there are statements that are not recitations of historical fact, such statements constitute forward-looking statements that, by definition, involve risks and uncertainties.  In any forward-looking statement, where we express an expectation or belief as to future results or events, such expectation or belief is expressed in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis, but there can be no assurance that the statement of expectation or belief will be achieved or accomplished.

The actual results or events may differ materially from those anticipated and as reflected in forward-looking statements included herein.  Factors that may cause actual results or events to differ from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements included herein include the Risk Factors described in Item 1A herein and in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained herein, which speak only as of the date hereof.  We believe the information contained in this Form 10-Q to be accurate as of the date hereof.  Changes may occur after that date, and we will not update that information except as required by law in the normal course of our public disclosure practices.

Additionally, the following discussion regarding our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and related notes contained in Item 1 of Part 1 of this Form 10-Q, as well as the Risk Factors in Item 1A and the financial statements in Item 7 of Part II of our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012.

Critical Accounting Policies

The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.  We believe certain critical accounting policies affect the more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our financial statements.  A description of our critical accounting policies is set forth in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012.  As of, and for the nine months ended, September 30, 2013, there have been no material changes or updates to our critical accounting policies.

14

Recent Developments

Drilling Activity

During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we drilled no wells and, at September 30, 2013, no wells were ongoing.

Sale of La Cuerva and LLA 62 Blocks

During the first quarter of 2012, we sold all of our interest in HupecolCuerva, LLC (“HC, LLC”), which holds interests in the La Cuerva block and, pending approval of the Colombian authorities, the LLA 62 block, together covering approximately 90,000 acres in the Llanos Basin in Colombia. HC, LLC sold for $75 million, adjusted for working capital.  13.3% of the sales price of HC, LLC will be held in escrow to fund potential claims arising from the sale.  Pursuant to our 1.6% ownership interest in HC, LLC, we received 1.6% in the net sale proceeds after deduction of commissions, overriding royalty interest, and transaction expenses; subject to the escrow holdback and a further contingency holdback by Hupecol.  Following completion of the sale of HC, LLC, we have no continuing interest in the La Cuerva and LLA 62 blocks. Net proceeds from the sale, net to our interests, after all funds are released, are expected to be $1,224,393.

CPO 4 Termination

During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we made no capital expenditures with respect to the CPO 4 prospect in Colombia but entered into a Settlement Agreement with SK Innovation, operator and principal owner of the CPO 4 prospect.  Pursuant to the terms of the Settlement Agreement, we terminated, and agreed to convey to SK Innovation, our entire interest in the CPO 4 prospect and we and SK Innovation agreed to release any and all claims each may have against the other under the Operating Agreement with respect to the CPO 4 prospect. We were relieved of any and all obligations under past, present and future capital calls relating to the CPO 4 prospect, including accrued cash calls at December 31, 2012 of $3,219,128. Our balance sheet reflects a reduction in the cash call obligation and an increase in accumulated depletion, depreciation, amortization and impairment, each in the amount of $3,219,128. In conjunction with the termination of our interest in the CPO 4 Block, during the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we terminated a standby letter of credit obligation and $3,056,250 of funds posted as collateral to secure a standby letter of credit and previously recorded as restricted cash was returned to us.

Colombian Developments – Serrania, Los Picachos and Macaya

During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, our capital investment expenditures in Colombia related to the preparation and evaluation of our three concessions in Colombia, which amount totaled $139,080.  During the fourth quarter of 2013, we anticipate drilling two test wells on the Serrania concession, and have budgeted approximately $1.4 million as our share of capital costs in connection with these activities.

In addition, we anticipate shooting approximately 83.6 kilometers of 2-D seismic on the Los Picachos concession and approximately 201.9 kilometers of 2-D seismic on the Macaya Concession during the fourth quarter of 2013.  In connection with these seismic acquisitions, we have budged approximately $2.0 million as our share of costs in connection with the planned seismic shoots.

Domestic Developments

With the termination of our interest in the CPO 4 prospect and improving economics in the U.S. energy sector, during the first half of 2013, we began actively evaluating opportunities to invest and participate in domestic oil and gas prospects.  Our management team, led by our CEO, has evaluated numerous opportunities and is sourcing and evaluating additional domestic opportunities.  As of September 30, 2013, we had agreed to participate in four additional prospects.

During the second quarter of 2013, the operator of the Crown Paper #1 well in the Profit Island Field in East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana successfully carried out a recompletion of the well.  We hold a 5.675% royalty interest in the well which reduces to 2.838% after payout. As a result of the recompletion, production from the well was down for the first half of 2013 but has increased since the middle of the second quarter of 2013.  During the quarter ended September 30, 2013, our royalties attributable to the well increased to $167,889 from $11,016 during the 2012 quarter.  As of September 30, 3013, the balance of royalties to be received to attain payout totaled $130,623.

15

In July 2013, we agreed to participate in drilling a 10,000’ test well in Pecos County, Texas. The well, sited on a 725 acre lease block, is planned to test the Devonian chert and Strawn formation targeting potential oil pay.  The block is expected to accommodate multiple offset locations should the test be successful. We will hold a 10% working interest after the casing point in the test well and in the entire lease block. Our costs in the test well are expected to be $400,000 or less which will be funded from working capital.

In September 2013, we agreed to participate in the drilling of test wells on three prospects, each of which is expected to be drilled before year-end 2013.  The planned wells, and our interest in the prospects, are as follows:

· In South Texas, a 4,000’ test of the Lower Hockley Sand is planned targeting potential oil pay.  The prospect is within a 179 acre lease block supported by 3-D seismic and is a look-a-like to a successful well nearby.  A second similar prospect has been identified on the lease block.  We will own a 7.2% working interest in the well and acreage.

· In Jefferson Davis Parish, Louisiana, a 7,000’ test of the Cris H stringer and Cris H sand is planned with the objective of gaining structure on existing productive oil wells.  We will own a 10.9% working interest in the well before payout and a 9.375% working interest after payout.

· In Iberville Parish, Louisiana, a 13,500’ test of the Cib Haz Sands is planned.  Successful wells in surrounding acreage have come on production at rates averaging approximately 800 barrels of oil per day with associated gas production.  We will own a 3% working interest in the well and 618 acre lease block.

Our costs for the three test wells are expected to total approximately $700,000.  As of September 30, 2013, we had incurred $116,250 of drilling costs associated with the planned Jefferson Davis Parish test well.

Colombian Tax

During 2012, we engaged our tax advisors in Colombia to evaluate certain tax and other filings made in Colombia by them and other advisors for 2009, 2010 and 2011.  Our advisors identified inconsistencies between tax and non-tax filings with respect to equity investments made by us in Colombia.  Based on guidance from our advisors, during 2012 we recorded a foreign tax liability of $1,883,266 of which $1,693,085 was paid during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and the remaining balance is expected to be paid over the next twelve months, relating primarily to a newly enacted Colombian equity tax measure based on the equity of our Colombian branch as of January 1, 2011.

Tax Refund

During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we received a U.S. income tax refund of approximately $3.3 million attributable to the amendment of our 2010 federal tax return to carry back net operating losses from 2011 and 2012.

Management Changes

In July 2013, our chief financial officer resigned to pursue other opportunities and we determined not to renew the employment agreement of our Senior Vice President of Exploration on its expiration in August 2013.  Until a replacement is hired to fill the chief financial officer position, the functions of our chief financial officer will be handled by other employees and consultants.  The Senior Vice President of Exploration position is not expected to be filled at this time as that position was focused on the CPO 4 prospect in which we no longer hold an interest.

Compensation Expense

In June 2013, our shareholders approved an increase in the shares reserved for issuance under our 2008 Equity Incentive Plan.

With approval of the increase in shares reserved under the 2008 Equity Incentive Plan, 915,525 options granted during 2012 became exercisable.  In addition, in June 2013, we granted 1,200,000 stock options to employees and 100,000 stock options to non-employee directors.  As a result of such grants and approval of the increase in shares reserved under the plan and resulting exercisability of 2012 option grants, we recognized $249,391 and $1,140,853 of compensation expense during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, in addition to stock compensation expense attributable to the amortization of unrecognized stock-based compensation from prior year grants.

16

As a result of the changes in management noted above, our overhead is expected to decrease by more than $500,000 annually.  Additionally, 5,000 shares of restricted stock held by each of those officers was forfeited as of the date of termination of employment.  Similarly, unvested stock option grants to purchase an aggregate of 150,000 shares of common stock each terminated as of the date of termination of employment.

Production Incentive Compensation Plan

In August 2013, our compensation committee adopted a Production Incentive Compensation Plan.  The purpose of the Plan is to encourage employees and consultants participating in the Plan to identify and secure for our company participation in attractive oil and gas opportunities.

Under that Plan, the committee may establish one or more Pools and designate employees and consultants to participate in those Pools and designate prospects and wells, and a defined percentage of our revenues from those wells, to fund those Pools.  Only prospects acquired on or after establishment of the Plan, and excluding all prospects in Colombia, may be designated to fund a Pool.  The maximum percentage of our share of revenues from a well that may be designated to fund a Pool is 2% (the “Pool Cap”); provided, however, that with respect to wells with a net revenue interest to the 8/8 of less than 73%, the Pool Cap with respect to such wells shall be reduced on a 1-for-1 basis such that no portion of our revenues from a well may be designated to fund a Pool if the NRI is 71% or less.

Designated participants in a Pool will be assigned a specific percentage out of our revenues assigned to the Pool and will be paid that percentage of such revenues from all wells designated to such Pool and spud during that participant’s employment or services with Houston American.  In no event may the percentage assigned to our chief executive officer relative to any well within a Pool exceed one-half of the applicable Pool Cap for that well.  Payouts of revenues funded into Pools shall be made to participants not later than 60 days following year end, subject to the committee’s right to make partial interim payouts.  Participants will continue to receive their percentage share of revenues from wells included in a Pool and spud during the term of their employment or service so long as we continue to be derive revenues from those wells even after termination of employment or services of the Participant; provided, however, that a participant’s interest in all Pools shall terminate on the date of termination of employment or services where such termination is for cause.

In the event of certain changes in control of our company, the acquirer or survivor of such transaction must assume all obligations under the Plan; provided, however, that in lieu of such assumption obligation, the committee may, at its sole discretion, assign overriding royalty interests in wells to substantially mirror the rights of participants under the Plan.  Similarly, the committee may, at any time, assign overriding royalty interests in wells in settlement of obligations under the Plan.

The Plan is administered by our compensation committee which shall consult with our chief executive officer relative to Pool participants, prospects, wells and interests assign although the committee will have final and absolute authority to make all such determinations.

Results of Operations

Oil and Gas Revenues.  Total oil and gas revenues increased 454% to $170,311 in the three months ended September 30, 2013 compared to $30,572 in the three months ended September 30, 2012.  For the nine month period, oil and gas revenues decreased 47% to $204,566 in 2013 compared to $387,609 in 2012.

The increase in revenue for the three months was attributable to an increase in production from the Crown Paper #1 well following the recompletion of the well during the second quarter of 2013.  Our revenue attributable to the well increased to $167,889 during the quarter, up 1,424% from $11,016 in the 2012 quarter.

The decrease in revenue for the nine-month period was due to the sale of the La Cuerva concession during the first quarter of 2012, partially offset by increased revenues attributable to the Crown Paper #1 well commencing in the middle of the second quarter of 2013.  For the nine-month period, our revenues from the La Cuerva concession were down $333,574 from the 2012 nine-month period while our revenues from the Crown Paper #1 well were up $125,146.

17

The following table sets forth the gross and net producing wells, net oil and gas production volumes and average hydrocarbon sales prices for the quarters and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:

 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
   
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
 
 
2013
   
2012
   
2013
   
2012
 
Gross producing wells
   
6
     
6
     
6
     
22
 
Net producing wells
   
0.19
     
0.18
     
0.19
     
0.44
 
Net oil production (bbl)
   
1,469
     
238
     
1,738
     
2,622
 
Net gas production (mcf)
   
4,429
     
2,677
     
6,178
     
9,928
 
Average sales price – oil (per barrel)
 
$
102.61
   
$
98.40
   
$
102.78
   
$
109.06
 
Average sales price – natural gas (per Mcf)
 
$
4.42
   
$
3.01
   
$
4.20
   
$
3.24
 

The number of gross wells shown above for the nine months ended September 30, 2012  includes the 16 gross (0.256 net) wells attributable to the La Cuerva concession that were sold during the first quarter of 2012.  At September 30, 2012, we had 6 gross (0.18 net) wells.

The change in average sales prices realized reflects fluctuations in global commodity prices.

Oil and gas sales revenues by region were as follows:

 
 
Colombia
   
U.S.
   
Total
 
2013 First Nine Months
 
   
   
 
Oil sales
 
$
   
$
178,598
   
$
178,598
 
Gas sales
   
     
25,968
     
25,968
 
2012 First Nine Months
                       
Oil sales
 
$
263,185
*
 
$
92,292
   
$
355,477
 
Gas sales
   
     
32,132
     
32,132
 

* Includes a $69,186 payment from Hupecol for oil produced in 2011 which is considered immaterial to the financial statements.

Lease Operating Expenses and Severance Taxes. Lease operating expenses and severance taxes, excluding joint venture expenses relating to our Colombian operations discussed below, increased 138% to $32,398 in the 2013 quarter from $13,604 in the 2012 quarter.  For the nine month period, lease operating expenses and severance taxes decreased 70% to $52,030 from $172,252 in the 2012 period.  The increase for the quarter was attributable to increased production from the Crown Paper #1 well and resulting higher severance taxes and compression fees. The decrease during the nine months period was attributable to the sale of our interest in the La Cuerva concession during the first quarter of 2012, partially offset by increased severance taxes and compression fees from the Crown Paper #1 well following its recompletion in the middle of the second quarter.

Following is a summary comparison of lease operating expenses and severance taxes, by region, for the periods.

   
Colombia
   
U.S.
   
Total
 
Quarter
   
- 2013
   
$
   
$
32,398
   
$
32,398
 
 
   
- 2012
   
$
   
$
13,604
   
$
13,604
 
 
                               
Nine Months
   
- 2013
   
$
   
$
52,030
   
$
52,030
 
 
   
- 2012
   
$
118,788
   
$
53,464
   
$
172,252
 

Consistent with our business model and operating history, we experience steep declines in lease operating expenses and severance taxes following strategic divestitures and anticipate lease operating expenses and severance taxes to ramp up to levels consistent with regional costs as new wells are brought on line.

Joint Venture Expenses.  Our allocable share of joint venture expenses attributable to the Colombian Joint Venture with Hupecol totaled $0and $0 during the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and $0 and $3,243 during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  The change in joint venture expenses was attributable to the sale of our La Cuerva prospect during 2012 and operation of no wells in Colombia during 2013.

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Depreciation and Depletion Expense.  Depreciation and depletion expense was $7,688 and $6,040 for the quarter ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and $15,890 and $61,507 for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  The decrease in depreciation and depletion was due to the sale of our interest in the La Cuerva concession and a resulting reduction in production.

Gain on sale of oil and gas properties. The sale of our indirect interests in HupecolCuerva, LLC resulted in a gain of $315,119 during the 2012 nine month period. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, post-closing adjustments related to the sale of our indirect interests in HupecolCuerva, LLC resulted in a gain of $86,025.

Impairment Expense.  Termination of our testing and completion efforts on our Tamandua #1 sidetrack well and Cachirre #1 well resulted in impairment expense of $1,174,169 and $37,803,088, respectively, during the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2012.

General and Administrative Expenses.  General and administrative expense decreased by 32% to $656,473 during the 2013 quarter from $965,325 during the 2012 quarter and by 31% to $2,830,338 during the 2013 nine-month period from $4,078,513 during the 2012 nine-month period.

The decrease in general and administrative expense was primarily attributable to a decrease in stock compensation of $108,658 and $378,288, respectively, during the quarter and nine-month periods, and a decrease in cash compensation paid of $55,205 and $432,273, respectively, during the quarter and nine-month periods.  The decrease in stock compensation expense reflects the decrease in share price of options granted.  The decrease in cash compensation paid reflected cash bonuses paid during the 2012 periods and the termination of two officers during the 2013 quarter.

Bad Debt Expense.  As a result of Gulf United Energy’s delinquency in satisfying its obligations with respect to the CPO 4 prospect, during the quarter ended September 30, 2012, we wrote down our receivable from Gulf United in the amount of $3,951,370.

Other Income (Expense).  Other income (expense) consists of interest earned on cash balances, net of other bank fees.  Other income (expense), net totaled $1,486 net gain and $4,872 net expense during the three and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2013, respectively, as compared to $24,478 of net expense and $61,798 of net expense during the three months and nine-month periods ending September 30, 2012, respectively.  The change was attributable to interest income received on tax refunds for the quarter and Colombian fees for the year.

Income Tax Expense/Benefit.  We reported income tax expense of $1,702during the 2013 quarter compared to income tax expense of $731 during the 2012 quarter.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we reported income tax benefit of $13,633 as compared to income tax expense of $3,366,096 during the 2012 nine-month period.  The change in income tax expense was attributable to over accrual in 2012.

Financial Condition

Liquidity and Capital Resources.  At September30, 2013, we had a cash balance of $8,445,019 and working capital of $10,479,129, compared to a cash balance of $5,626,345 and working capital of $9,144,869 at December 31, 2012. The change in working capital during the period was primarily attributable to our settlement with SK Innovation terminating our interest in the CPO 4 prospect and release of our cash call commitment obligations totaling $3,219,128 at December 31, 2012.

Operating activities provided cash of $39,543 during the 2013nine-month period as compared to $2,443,083 of cash used during the 2012nine-month period.  The change in operating cash flow was primarily attributable to tax refunds received during 2013 totaling approximately $3.3 million.

Investing activities provided $2,779,131 during the 2013 nine-month period compared to $19,423,106 used during the 2012 nine-month period.  The funds provided by investing activities during the 2013 period reflects the release, following termination of our interest in the CPO 4 block, of restricted cash in the amount of $3,056,250 securing a standby letter of credit obligation to secure performance relative to the CPO 4 block, partially offset by investments in oil and gas properties. Cash used in investing activities during the 2012 period reflects investments in oil and gas properties of $20,440,938 and purchases of marketable securities of $156,817 partially offset by the receipt of $1,027,068 from the sale of our interest in HupecolCuerva LLC and proceeds from escrow receivables of $147,581.

Financing activities during 2012 provided $12,126,150 of net proceeds from the sale of units of common stock and warrants in May 2012.
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Long-Term Liabilities.  At September 30, 2013, we had long-term liabilities of $8,286 as compared to $201,270 at December 31, 2012.  Long-term liabilities consist of a reserve for plugging costs. The decrease in long-term liabilities at September 30, 2013was attributable to reclassifying accrued foreign taxes payable as short term.

Capital and Exploration Expenditures and Commitments.  Our principal capital and exploration expenditures relate to ongoing efforts to acquire, drill and complete prospects.  We expect that future capital and exploration expenditures will be funded principally through funds on hand.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we invested $386,107 for the development of oil and gas properties, consisting of (1) preparation and evaluation costs in Colombia of $139,080, and (2) costs on U.S. properties of $247,027. Of the amount invested, we capitalized $209 to oil and gas properties subject to amortization, and $385,898 to oil and gas properties not subject to amortization, primarily attributable to preparation and evaluation cost in Colombia of $139,080 and leasehold cost in the U.S. of $130,568, drilling cost of $116,250 and lease equipment of $209.

Our estimated capital expenditure budget for the balance of 2013 is approximately $4.38 million and relates to the anticipated drilling of two test wells on the Serrania concession ($1.3 million), seismic shoots on the Los Picachos and Macaya concessions ($2.1 million) and drilling of test wells on four domestic concessions ($984,000).  Drilling and seismic plans for 2013 may change based on field conditions and other factors beyond our control or the control of Hupecol, operator of the Serrania, Los Picachos and Macaya concessions and domestic prospects, and as such there can be no assurance as to the timing of these operations.

We anticipate that our cash on hand will be adequate to fully fund our operations during 2013 and for the next twelve months, including our capital expenditure budget. However, depending on the ultimate cost and results of our drilling operations, it is possible that we will require additional capital to fully fund our future drilling budget and operations.  If, for any reason, we are unable to fully fund our drilling budget and fail to satisfy commitments reflected therein, we may be subject to penalties or to the possible loss of some of our rights and interests in prospects with respect to which we fail to satisfy funding commitments.  We have no commitments to provide any additional financing should we require and seek such financing and there is no guarantee that we will be able to secure additional financing on acceptable terms, or at all, to fully fund our drilling budget and to support future acquisitions and development activities.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We had no off-balance sheet arrangements or guarantees of third party obligations at September 30, 2013.

Inflation

We believe that inflation has not had a significant impact on operations since inception.

ITEM 3 QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Commodity Price Risk

The price we receive for our oil and gas production heavily influences our revenue, profitability, access to capital and future rate of growth. Crude oil and natural gas are commodities and, therefore, their prices are subject to wide fluctuations in response to relatively minor changes in supply and demand. Historically, the markets for oil and gas have been volatile, and these markets will likely continue to be volatile in the future. The prices we receive for production depends on numerous factors beyond our control.

We have not historically entered into any hedges or other transactions designed to manage, or limit, exposure to oil and gas price volatility.

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ITEM 4 CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Under the supervision and the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we conducted an evaluation as of September 30, 2013 of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Based on this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of September 30, 2013.  Such conclusion reflects the departure of our chief financial officer and assumption of duties of principal financial officer by our chief executive officer and the resulting lack of accounting expertise of our now principal financial officer and a lack of segregation of duties.  Until we are able to remedy these material weaknesses, we are relying on third party consultants and our accounting firm to assist with financial reporting.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

As noted above, during the quarter ended September 30, 2013, our chief financial officer departed the company and our chief executive, with assistance from third party consultants, assumed certain of the chief financial officer’s responsibilities and functions.  Such changes materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II

ITEM 1 LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

On August 22, 2013, the U.S. District for the Southern District of Texas issued an order granting the motion of Houston American Energy to dismiss the complaint in the class action lawsuit alleging violations of Sections 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and SEC Rule 10b-5 by Houston American Energy and violations of Section 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 by certain officers of Houston American Energy.  The plaintiffs in that case have since filed a Notice of Appeal of the dismissal of the complaint.

Regarding the previously disclosed investigation being conducted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), on August 29, 2013, the Company and John Terwilliger received a so-called “Wells” notice advising them that the staff of the SEC has made a preliminary recommendation to initiate an enforcement action and providing them the opportunity to provide reasons of law, policy or fact why the proposed enforcement action should not be filed.

ITEM 6 EXHIBITS

Exhibit
Number Description

31.1 Certification of CEO and Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

32.1 Certification of CEO and Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

SIGNATURES

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

 
HOUSTON AMERICAN ENERGY CORP.
Date:  November 14, 2013
 
 
 
By:
/s/ John F. Terwilliger
 
 
John Terwilliger
 
 
CEO and President (Principal executive officer and
 
 
Principal financial officer)
 
 
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