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Mosaic ImmunoEngineering Inc. - Quarter Report: 2015 February (Form 10-Q)

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

(Mark One)

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

 

For the quarterly period ended February 28, 2015

 

OR

 

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

 

For the transition period from ___________ to _______________

 

Commission File Number 0-22182

 

PATRIOT SCIENTIFIC CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

84-1070278

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

   

701 Palomar Airport Road, Suite 170, Carlsbad, California

(Address of principal executive offices)

92011

(Zip Code)

 

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code): (760) 547-2700

 

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 Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 229.405 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 the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

Large accelerated filer [  ] Accelerated filer [  ] Non-accelerated filer [  ]
(do not check if smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company [X]

 

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

 

On April 9, 2015, 401,392,948 shares of common stock, par value $0.00001 per share were outstanding.

 

 
 

 

INDEX

 

 

Page

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION  
ITEM 1. Financial Statements  
Condensed consolidated Balance Sheets as of February 28, 2015 (unaudited) and May 31, 2014 3
Condensed consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2015 and February 28, 2014 (unaudited) 4
Condensed consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and February 28, 2014 (unaudited) 5
Notes to condensed consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) 6-21
ITEM 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 22-32
ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 32
ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures 32
   

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 
ITEM 1. Legal Proceedings 33
ITEM 1A. Risk Factors 33
ITEM 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 33
ITEM 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities 33
ITEM 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 34
ITEM 5. Other Information 34
ITEM 6. Exhibits 34-37
   
SIGNATURES 38

 

2
 

 

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Financial Statements

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

   February 28, 2015   May 31, 2014 
  (Unaudited)     
ASSETS          
Current assets:          
Cash and cash equivalents  $3,012,444   $4,716,208 
Restricted cash and cash equivalents   21,203    21,123 
Marketable securities   2,454,348    1,701,647 
Prepaid income tax   3,955     
Prepaid expenses and other current assets   66,997    203,146 
Current assets of discontinued operations   9,969    57,477 
Total current assets   5,568,916    6,699,601 
           
Property and equipment, net   2,440    2,775 
Other assets   3,036    3,036 
Investment in affiliated company   3,216    95,981 
Total assets  $5,577,608   $6,801,393 
           
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
Current liabilities:          
Accounts payable  $23,400   $224,059 
Accrued expenses and other   45,795    62,485 
Income tax payable       3,599 
Total current liabilities   69,195    290,143 
Total liabilities   69,195    290,143 
           
Commitments and contingencies          
           
Stockholders’ equity:          
Preferred stock, $0.00001 par value; 5,000,000 shares authorized: none outstanding        
Common stock, $0.00001 par value: 600,000,000 shares authorized: 438,242,618 shares issued and 401,392,948 shares outstanding at February 28, 2015 and May 31, 2014   4,382    4,382 
Additional paid-in capital   77,400,852    77,400,852 
Accumulated deficit   (57,270,953)   (56,268,116)
Common stock held in treasury, at cost – 36,849,670 shares at February 28, 2015 and May 31, 2014   (14,625,868)   (14,625,868)
Total stockholders’ equity   5,508,413    6,511,250 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity  $5,577,608   $6,801,393 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

 

3
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(Unaudited)

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014 
Operating expenses:                    
Selling, general and administrative  $247,668   $379,004   $977,666   $1,191,149 
Total operating expenses   247,668    379,004    977,666    1,191,149 
                     
Other income (expense):                    
Interest income   2,667    2,458    7,299    3,623 
Other income           60     
Realized loss on marketable securities               (347)
Equity in earnings (loss) of affiliated company   269,314    (29,889)   (34,364)   356,930 
Total other income (expense), net   271,981    (27,431)   (27,005)   360,206 
                     
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes   24,313    (406,435)   (1,004,671)   (830,943)
                     
Provision (benefit) for income taxes       (10,425)   2,400    25,288 
                     
Income (loss) from continuing operations   24,313    (396,010)   (1,007,071)   (856,231)
                     
Income from discontinued operations, net   969        4,234    40,583 
                     
Net income (loss)  $25,282   $(396,010)  $(1,002,837)  $(815,648)
                     
Basic and diluted income (loss) per common share:                    
Income (loss) from continuing operations  $   $   $   $ 
Income from discontinued operations  $   $   $   $ 
Net income (loss)  $   $   $   $ 
                     
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding-basic   398,548,318    401,933,416    398,548,318    402,122,360 
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding-diluted   401,392,948    401,933,416    398,548,318    402,122,360 

 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

 

4
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited)

 

   Nine months ended 
   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014 
         
Operating activities:          
Net loss  $(1,002,837)  $(815,648)
Less: Net income from discontinued operations   4,234    40,583 
Loss from continuing operations   (1,007,071)   (856,231)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss before discontinued operations to net cash used in operating activities:          
Depreciation   1,577    1,728 
Share-based compensation       62,418 
Accrued interest income added to investments   (3,859)   (967)
Equity in (earnings) loss of affiliated company   34,364    (356,930)
Realized loss on sale of marketable securities       347 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:          
Accounts receivable - affiliated company       (64,207)
Prepaid income tax   (3,955)    
Prepaid expenses and other current assets   136,148    136,722 
Income tax payable   (3,599)   21,388 
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other   (217,347)   (206,768)
Net cash used in operating activities of continuing operations   (1,063,742)   (1,262,500)
Net cash provided by operating activities of discontinued operations   51,742    66,266 
Net cash used in operating activities   (1,012,000)   (1,196,234)
           
Investing activities:          
Proceeds from sales of marketable securities   1,451,078    1,197,619 
Purchases of marketable securities   (2,200,000)   (2,003,151)
Purchase of property and equipment   (1,242)    
Distributions from affiliated company   58,400    375,000 
Net cash used in investing activities   (691,764)   (430,532)
           
Financing activities:          
Repurchase of common stock for treasury       (84,129)
Net cash used in financing activities       (84,129)
           
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents   (1,703,764)   (1,710,895)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   4,716,208    7,572,887 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period  $3,012,444   $5,861,992 
           
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information:          
Cash paid for income taxes  $9,954   $3,900 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

5
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

1. Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Patriot Scientific Corporation (the “Company”, “PTSC”, “Patriot”, “we”, “us” or “our”) presented herein have been prepared pursuant to the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our Report on Form 10-K for our fiscal year ended May 31, 2014.

 

In the opinion of management, the interim condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments of a normal recurring nature necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim period presented. Operating results for the nine month period ended February 28, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending May 31, 2015.

 

Basis of Consolidation

 

The condensed consolidated balance sheets at February 28, 2015 and May 31, 2014, condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 and condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 include our accounts and those of our wholly owned subsidiary Patriot Data Solutions Group, Inc. (“PDSG”) which includes Crossflo Systems, Inc. (“Crossflo”), and our inactive subsidiary Plasma Scientific Corporation. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

 

PDSG is being presented as discontinued operations in the condensed consolidated statements of operations and cash flows for all periods presented. See “Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale” below for additional information.

 

Liquidity and Management’s Plans

 

Cash shortfalls currently experienced by Phoenix Digital Solutions, LLC (“PDS”) will have an adverse effect on our liquidity. To date, we have determined that it is in the best interests of the Moore Microprocessor Patent (“MMP”) licensing program that we provide our 50% share of capital to provide for PDS expenses including legal retainers, and litigation related payments in the event license revenues received by PDS are insufficient to meet these needs. We believe it is likely that contributions to PDS to fund working capital will continue to be required.

 

PDS had been incurring significant third-party costs for expert testimony, depositions and other related litigation costs. We could be required to make capital contributions to PDS for any future litigation related costs in the event that PDS does not receive sufficient licensing revenues to pay these expenses.

 

Our current liquid cash resources as of February 28, 2015, are expected to provide the funds necessary to support our operations through at least the next twelve months. The cash flows from our interest in PDS represent our only significant source of cash generation.  In the event of a continued decrease or interruption in MMP portfolio licensing we will incur a significant reduction to our cash position. It is highly unlikely that we would be able to obtain any additional sources of financing to supplement our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment position of $5,466,792 at February 28, 2015.

 

6
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Liquidity and Management’s Plans (continued)

 

On March 20, 2013, Technology Properties Limited, Inc. (“TPL”) filed a petition under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. On July 18, 2014, TPL and the creditors’ committee announced that a term sheet serving as the basis for a Joint Plan of Reorganization (the “Joint Plan”) had been agreed to. The Joint Plan was confirmed by the Bankruptcy Court on February 11, 2015 with the entered confirmation order becoming final on April 2, 2015.  The Joint Plan provides that the Effective Date will be the later of (i) the first business day that is at least 30 days after the entry of the confirmation order or (ii) the first Business Day on which the reorganized company has sufficient cash to make all payments required under the Plan on the Effective Date.  We have been appointed to the creditors’ committee and have been closely monitoring the progress in this matter as it relates to our interest in PDS. In the event we are required to provide funding to PDS that is not reciprocated by TPL, our ownership percentage in PDS will increase and we will have a controlling financial interest in PDS, in which case, we will consolidate PDS in our consolidated financial statements.

 

Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale

 

On February 17, 2012, our board of directors authorized management to sell the assets of PDSG due to the inability of PDSG to meet its business plan and continuing projected negative cash flows. In accordance with authoritative guidance we have classified the assets, operations and cash flows of PDSG as discontinued operations for all periods presented. During March 2012, we entered into an interim agreement with the purchaser of the assets of PDSG which required the purchaser to pay PDSG $93,450 to subsidize the April 2012 expenses of PDSG during the sale transaction negotiations. On April 30, 2012, we negotiated a sale transaction in which we sold substantially all of the assets of PDSG in exchange for a royalty on PDSG revenues for a period of three years. From April 30, 2012 to February 28, 2015, the gain on the asset sale of PDSG is approximately $98,000.

 

Summarized operating results of discontinued operations for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 are as follows:

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014 
   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited) 
Gain on sale of discontinued operations  $      969   $         –   $  4,234   $40,583 
Income before income taxes  $969   $   $4,234   $40,583 
Income from discontinued operations  $969   $   $4,234   $40,583 

 

PDSG activity for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 consists of PDSG royalty revenues.

 

The following table summarizes the carrying amount at February 28, 2015 and May 31, 2014 of the major classes of assets of PDSG classified as discontinued operations:

 

   February 28, 2015   May 31, 2014 
   (Unaudited)     
Current assets:          
Other current assets  $9,969   $57,477 

 

7
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Investments in Marketable Securities

 

We classify our investments in marketable securities in certificates of deposit at the time of purchase as held-to-maturity and reevaluate such classifications at each balance sheet date. Held-to-maturity investments consist of securities that we have the intent and ability to retain until maturity. These securities are recorded at cost and adjusted for the amortization of premiums and discounts, which approximates fair value. Cash inflows and outflows related to the sale and purchase of investments are classified as investing activities in our condensed consolidated statements of cash flows.

 

Investment in Affiliated Company

 

We have a 50% interest in PDS (see Note 3). We account for our investment using the equity method of accounting since the investment provides us the ability to exercise significant influence, but not control, over the investee. Significant influence is generally deemed to exist if we have an ownership interest in the voting stock of the investee of between 20% and 50%, although other factors, such as representation on the investee’s Board of Directors, are considered in determining whether the equity method of accounting is appropriate. Under the equity method of accounting, the investment, originally recorded at cost, is adjusted to recognize our share of net earnings or losses of the investee and is recognized in the condensed consolidated statements of operations in the caption “Equity in earnings (loss) of affiliated company” and also is adjusted by contributions to and distributions from PDS.

 

PDS, as an unconsolidated equity investee, recognizes revenue from technology license agreements at the time a contract is entered into, the license method is determined (paid-in-advance or on-going royalty), performance obligations under the license agreement are satisfied, and the realization of revenue is assured which is generally upon the receipt of the license proceeds. PDS may at times enter into license agreements whereby contingent revenues are recognized as one or more contractual milestones are met.

 

We review our investment in PDS to determine whether events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. The primary factors we consider in our determination are the financial condition, operating performance and near term prospects of PDS. If a decline in value is deemed to be other than temporary, we would recognize an impairment loss.

 

Earnings (Loss) Per Share

 

Basic earnings per share for continuing and discontinued operations includes no dilution and is computed by dividing earnings available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share for continuing and discontinued operations reflect the potential dilution of securities that could share in the earnings of an entity.

 

For the three months ended February 28, 2015 potential common shares of 1,335,000 related to our outstanding options were not included in the calculation of diluted income per share for continuing and discontinued operations as they were anti-dilutive. For the three months ended February 28, 2015 we included the PDSG escrow shares of 2,844,630 in the calculation of diluted income per share for continuing and discontinued operations.

 

For the nine months ended February 28, 2015 potential common shares of 1,335,000 related to our outstanding options were not included in the calculation of diluted loss per share for continuing and discontinued operations as we recorded a loss. Had we reported net income for the nine months ended February 28, 2015, no additional shares of common stock would have been included in the calculation of diluted income per share for continuing and discontinued operations.

 

8
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Earnings (Loss) Per Share (continued)

 

For the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014 potential common shares of 1,335,000 related to our outstanding options were not included in the calculation of basic and diluted loss per share for continuing and discontinued operations as we recorded a loss. Had we reported net income for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014, 0 and 575,000, respectively, additional shares of common stock would have been included in the calculation of diluted income per share for continuing and discontinued operations using the treasury stock method.

 

In connection with our acquisition of Crossflo, which is part of PDSG, we issued escrow shares that are contingent upon certain representations and warranties made by Crossflo at the time of the merger agreement (see Note 6). We exclude these escrow shares from the basic and diluted loss per share calculations and include the escrowed shares in the diluted earnings per share calculations.

 

Income Taxes

 

We follow authoritative guidance in accounting for uncertainties in income taxes. This authoritative guidance prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement requirement for the financial statement recognition of a tax position that has been taken or is expected to be taken on a tax return and also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. Under this guidance we may only recognize tax positions that meet a “more likely than not” threshold.

 

We follow authoritative guidance to evaluate whether a valuation allowance should be established against our deferred tax assets based on the consideration of all available evidence using a “more likely than not” standard. In making such judgments, significant weight is given to evidence that can be objectively verified. We are assessing our deferred tax assets under more likely than not scenarios in which they may be realized through future income.

 

We have determined that it was more likely than not that all of our deferred tax assets will not be realized in the future due to our continuing pre-tax and taxable losses. As a result of this determination we have placed a full valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets.

 

We follow authoritative guidance to adjust our effective tax rate each quarter to be consistent with the estimated annual effective tax rate. We are also required to record the tax impact of certain discrete items, unusual or infrequently occurring, including changes in judgment about valuation allowances and effects of changes in tax laws or rates, in the interim period in which they occur. In addition, jurisdictions with a projected loss for the year or a year-to-date loss where no tax benefit can be recognized are excluded from the estimated annual effective tax rate. The impact of such an exclusion could result in a higher or lower effective tax rate during a particular quarter, based upon the mix and timing of actual earnings or losses versus annual projections.

 

9
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Assessment of Contingent Liabilities

 

We are involved in various legal matters, disputes, and patent infringement claims which arise in the ordinary course of our business. We accrue for any estimated losses at the time when we can make a reliable estimate of such loss and it is probable that it has been incurred. By their very nature, contingencies are difficult to estimate. We continually evaluate information related to all contingencies to determine that the basis on which we have recorded our estimated exposure is appropriate.

 

Intellectual Property Rights

 

PDS, our investment in affiliated company, relies on a combination of patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secret laws, confidentiality procedures and licensing arrangements to protect our intellectual property rights. There are currently two unexpired U.S. patents issued dating back to 1998 on our microprocessor technology in addition to three European and two Japanese patents. The U.S. patents will expire in July and September 2015 and the European and Japanese patents will expire in 2016. There are also five U.S. patents, six European, and one Japanese patent all of which expired between August 2009 and August 19, 2014. These patents, while expired, may have certain retrospective statutory benefits that will fully diminish six years after the patent expiration date. The patent useful life for purposes of negotiating licenses is finite and these patents are subject to legal challenges, which in combination with the limited life, could adversely impact the stream of revenues. A successful challenge to the ownership of the technology or the proprietary nature of the intellectual property would materially damage business prospects. Any issued patent may be challenged and invalidated.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In August 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-15, "Presentation of Financial Statements – Going Concern." ASU 2014-15 provides guidance in generally accepted accounting principles about management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures. ASU 2014-15 is effective for annual reporting periods ending after December 15, 2016 and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter (fiscal year 2017 for the Company). Early adoption is permitted. We have not yet determined the potential effects of the adoption of ASU 2014-15 on our condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

2. Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities

 

We consider all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

 

Restricted cash and cash equivalents at February 28, 2015 and May 31, 2014 consist of deposits in a savings account required to be held as collateral for our corporate credit card.

 

At February 28, 2015 and May 31, 2014, our marketable securities in the amount of $2,454,348 and $1,701,647, respectively, consist of the par value plus accrued interest of our time deposits. These marketable securities are classified as held-to-maturity and are reported at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value.

 

10
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities (continued)

 

We follow authoritative guidance to account for our marketable securities as held-to-maturity. Under this authoritative guidance we are required to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. We determine fair value based on quoted prices when available or through the use of alternative approaches, such as discounting the expected cash flows using market interest rates commensurate with the credit quality and duration of the investment or valuations by third party professionals. The three levels of inputs that we may use to measure fair value are:

 

Level 1: Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities;

 

Level 2: Quoted prices in markets that are not active or inputs which are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; and

 

Level 3: Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e. supported by little or no market activity).

 

The following tables detail the fair value measurements within the fair value hierarchy of our cash, cash equivalents and investments in marketable securities:

 

      

Fair Value Measurements at February 28, 2015

(Unaudited) Using

 
        Quoted Prices   Significant      
        in Active   Other   Significant 
   Fair Value at   Markets for   Observable   Unobservable 
   February 28,   Identical Assets   Inputs   Inputs 
   2015   (Level 1)   (Level 2)   (Level 3) 
Cash and cash equivalents:                    
Cash  $182,341   $182,341   $   $              – 
Money market funds   2,830,103    2,830,103         
Restricted cash and cash equivalents   21,203    21,203         
Marketable securities:                    
Short-term:                    
Certificates of deposit   2,454,348        2,454,348     
Total  $5,487,995   $3,033,647   $2,454,348   $ 

 

       Fair Value Measurements at May 31, 2014 Using 
        Quoted Prices   Significant      
        in Active   Other   Significant 
   Fair Value at   Markets for   Observable   Unobservable 
   May 31,   Identical Assets   Inputs   Inputs 
   2014   (Level 1)   (Level 2)   (Level 3) 
Cash and cash equivalents:                    
Cash  $340,555   $340,555   $   $              – 
Money market funds   4,375,653    4,375,653         
Restricted cash and cash equivalents   21,123    21,123         
Marketable securities:                    
Short-term:                    
Certificates of deposit   1,701,647        1,701,647     
Total  $6,438,978   $4,737,331   $1,701,647   $ 

 

11
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities (continued)

 

We purchase certificates of deposit with varying maturity dates greater than three months. The following table summarizes the maturities, gross unrealized gains or losses and fair value of the certificates of deposit as of February 28, 2015:

 

  

February 28, 2015

(Unaudited)

 
   Cost   Gross Unrealized Gains/(Losses)   Fair
Value
 
Maturity               
Due in one year or less  $2,454,348   $             –   $2,454,348 

 

The following table summarizes the maturities, gross unrealized gains or losses and fair value of the certificates of deposit as of May 31, 2014:

 

   May 31, 2014 
   Cost   Gross Unrealized Gains/(Losses)   Fair
Value
 
Maturity               
Due in one year or less  $1,701,647   $             –   $1,701,647 

 

3. Investment in Affiliated Company

 

On June 7, 2005, we entered into a Master Agreement (the “Master Agreement”) with TPL, and Charles H. Moore (“Moore”), the co-inventor of the technology which is the subject of the MMP Portfolio of microprocessor patents, pursuant to which the parties resolved all legal disputes between them. Pursuant to the Master Agreement, we and TPL entered into the Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement of PDS (the “LLC Agreement”) into which we and Moore contributed our rights to certain of our technologies.

 

We and TPL each own 50% of the membership interests of PDS, and each member has the right to appoint one member of the three member management committee. The two appointees are required to select a mutually acceptable third member of the management committee. There had not been a third management committee member since May 2010, however, as a result of our initiating arbitration seeking the appointment of a third member, on December 16, 2014, an independent manager to the PDS management committee was selected by the arbitrator (see Note 6). Pursuant to the LLC Agreement, we and TPL initially agreed to establish a working capital fund for PDS of $4,000,000, of which our contribution was $2,000,000. The working capital fund was increased to a maximum of $8,000,000 as license revenues are achieved. We and TPL are obligated to fund future working capital requirements at the discretion of the management committee of PDS in order to maintain working capital of not more than $8,000,000. If the management committee determines that additional capital is required, neither we nor TPL are required to contribute more than $2,000,000 in any fiscal year. PDS working capital contributions would require the approval of a majority of the management committee members. Any distributable cash and allocation of profits and losses will be allocated to the members in the priority defined in the LLC Agreement.

 

12
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Investment in Affiliated Company (continued)

 

Previously, pursuant to our June 7, 2005 agreement with PDS and TPL to license the MMP Portfolio (“Commercialization Agreement”), PDS reimbursed TPL for payment of all legal and third-party expert fees and other related third-party costs and expenses. Presently the majority of third-party costs are paid directly by PDS. During the three months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014, PDS expensed $669,987 and reversed $(7,432), respectively, pursuant to the Commercialization Agreement and the July 11, 2012 Program Agreement (see below). These expenses are recorded in the accompanying PDS statements of operations presented below net of $20,215 and $7,432, respectively, of legal fee reversals previously expensed and recorded as accounts payable to TPL during the three months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 as the statute of limitations had expired. During the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014, PDS expensed $1,175,054 and $2,211,003, respectively, pursuant to the agreements. These expenses are recorded in the accompanying PDS statements of operations presented below net of $20,215 and $397,739, respectively, of legal fee reversals previously expensed and recorded as accounts payable to TPL during the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 as the statute of limitations had expired.

 

On July 11, 2012, we entered into the Program Agreement (“Program Agreement”) with PDS, TPL, and Alliacense, and an Agreement (the “TPL Agreement”) with TPL. Pursuant to the Program Agreement, PDS engaged Alliacense to negotiate MMP portfolio licenses and to pursue claims against violators of the MMP portfolio on behalf of PDS, TPL, and the Company. The Program Agreement continues through the useful life of the MMP portfolio patents. Pursuant to the TPL Agreement, we and TPL agreed to certain allocations of obligations in connection with the engagement of Alliacense. On July 24, 2014, the Program Agreement was amended with PDS and Alliacense entering into the Amended Alliacense Services and Novation Agreement (the “Novation Agreement”). Pursuant to the Novation Agreement certain performance goals and incentives were established for Alliacense that may impact the continuity of their services. The Novation Agreement also provides for the addition of a second licensing company, which was engaged on October 10, 2014, to complement the MMP licensing commercialization. However, to-date Alliacense has fulfilled only a portion of its obligations under the Novation Agreement associated with the deployment of the second licensing company despite our repeated demands.

 

On July 17, 2012, we entered into an agreement with PDS and TPL whereby we agreed to certain additional allocations of obligations relating to the Program Agreement.

Pursuant to the Program Agreement, PDS had committed to Alliacense a quarterly amount of $500,000 which represented the licensing services fees due Alliacense, subject to a contingency arrangement which provided for a percentage on future revenues, for its efforts to secure licensing agreements on behalf of PDS. During fiscal 2014, PDS discontinued these payments which were formally eliminated by terms of the Novation Agreement. These payments had replaced the quarterly amounts previously paid to TPL pursuant to the Commercialization Agreement. During the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014, PDS expensed $0 and $956,353, respectively, pursuant to this commitment. These expenses are recorded in the accompanying PDS statements of operations presented below.

 

Pursuant to the Program Agreement, PDS had committed to pay Alliacense litigation support fees relating to Alliacense’s special work and effort regarding internal costs related to MMP maintenance and litigation support including support in the U.S. District Court and the complaints filed on behalf of TPL, PDS and us with the U.S. International Trade Commission (“ITC”) on July 24, 2012. During the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014, PDS reversed $(24,598) in connection with the Novation Agreement, and expensed $180,413, respectively, pursuant to this commitment. Future litigation support payments to Alliacense relating to the ITC litigation had been subject to a contingency arrangement which provided for a percentage of future recoveries in these actions. The Novation Agreement eliminated the Program Agreement’s litigation support activity by Alliacense. These amounts are recorded in the accompanying PDS statements of operations presented below.

 

13
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Investment in Affiliated Company (continued)

 

Pursuant to the Novation Agreement, PDS paid Alliacense licensing fees of $151,600 and $155,600, respectively, during the three and nine months ended February 28, 2015.

 

During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2014 and the three months ended August 31, 2014, PDS paid Alliacense $300,000 and $323,000, respectively, pursuant to the terms of the Novation Agreement (see Note 6).

 

During January 2013, TPL and Moore settled their litigation. Terms of the settlement include the payment by PDS to Moore of a consulting fee of $250,000 for four years or until the completion of all outstanding MMP litigation whichever comes first. Per terms of the agreement PDS paid Moore $150,000 on the settlement date and paid Moore $16,667 per month from August 2013 through January 2014, and will pay $20,833 per month beginning February 2014 through January 2017. During the three months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014, PDS expensed $62,499 and $54,167, respectively, pursuant to this commitment and during the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014, PDS expensed $187,497 and $120,835, respectively, pursuant to this commitment. These expenses are recorded in the accompanying PDS statements of operations presented below.

 

Based on our analysis of current authoritative accounting guidance with respect to our investment in PDS, we continue to account for our investment in PDS under the equity method of accounting, and accordingly have recorded our share of PDS’s net loss during the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and three months ended February 28, 2014 of $34,364 and $29,889, respectively, as a decrease in our investment and recorded our share of PDS’ net income during the three months ended February 28, 2015 and nine months ended February 28, 2014 of $269,314 and $356,930, respectively, as an increase in our investment. We received distributions of $58,400 and $375,000, respectively, from PDS during the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 and we have recorded these distributions as a decrease in our investment.

 

We have recorded our share of PDS’ net income and loss for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 as “Equity in earnings (loss) of affiliated company” in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.

 

During the three and nine months ended February 28, 2015, PDS entered into licensing agreements with third parties, pursuant to which PDS received proceeds of $1,800,000 and $1,820,000, respectively.

 

During the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014, PDS entered into licensing agreements with third parties, pursuant to which PDS received aggregate proceeds of $0 and $5,022,000, respectively.

 

At February 28, 2015, PDS had an accounts payable balance of approximately $554,000 to TPL.

 

PDS’ balance sheets at February 28, 2015 and May 31, 2014 and statements of operations for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 are as follows:

 

14
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Investment in Affiliated Company (continued)

 

Balance Sheets

 

Assets:

 

   February 28, 2015   May 31, 2014 
   (Unaudited)   (Audited) 
Cash  $640,470   $1,063,536 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets   2,629    247,776 
Total assets  $643,099   $1,311,312 

 

Liabilities and Members’ Equity:

 

   February 28, 2015   May 31, 2014 
   (Unaudited)   (Audited) 
Payables  $636,666   $1,107,560 
Income tax payable       11,790 
Members’ equity   6,433    191,962 
Total liabilities and members’ equity  $643,099   $1,311,312 

 

Statements of Operations

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014 
   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited) 
Revenues  $1,800,000   $   $1,820,000   $5,022,000 
Expenses   901,372    59,777    1,528,729    3,901,740 
Operating income (loss)   898,628    (59,777)   291,271    1,120,260 
Income (loss) before provision for income taxes and foreign taxes   898,628    (59,777)   291,271    1,120,260 
Provision for income taxes and foreign taxes   (360,000)       (360,000)   (406,400)
Net income (loss)  $538,628   $(59,777)  $(68,729)  $713,860 

 

15
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Investment in Affiliated Company (continued)

 

PDS Related Party Balances And Transactions

 

Balances with related parties as of February 28, 2015 and May 31, 2014 are summarized as follows:

 

   February 28, 2015   May 31, 2014 
   (Unaudited)   (Audited) 
Liabilities:        
Related party payables and accrued expenses (TPL) (1)  $553,624   $666,412 
Related party payables (PTSC)       92,050 
Related party payables (Alliacense)       24,598 
Settlement fee payable (Alliacense)       323,000 
Total liabilities  $553,624   $1,106,060 

 

(1)Pursuant to the terms of the Commercialization Agreement, PDS reimbursed TPL for the payment of all legal and third party expert fees and other related third party costs and expenses upon TPL’s submission of documentation supporting that payment by them had occurred.

 

Transactions with related parties for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 are as follows:

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014 
Expenses (reversed), paid or accrued (TPL)  $669,987   $(7,432)  $1,175,054   $2,211,003 
Expenses paid or accrued (Alliacense)   151,600        131,002    1,440,788 

 

Significant Contractual Legal Relationship

 

PTSC, through its unconsolidated affiliate, PDS has incurred litigation related costs from an unrelated law firm and legal subcontractors with respect to substantial legal services for the commercialization of the MMP portfolio of microprocessor patents.

 

Accounts payable balances due this law firm and legal subcontractors as of February 28, 2015 and May 31, 2014 were $81,542 and $92,289, respectively.

 

Transactions with this law firm and legal subcontractors for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 were as follows:

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014 
Legal costs  $690,202   $   $1,195,269   $2,449,214 

 

16
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Investment in Affiliated Company (continued)

 

Contractual Commitments

 

In January 2013, PDS entered into a contractual commitment with a related party to provide consulting services at a cost of $250,000 per year for a duration of four years or the completion of all outstanding MMP litigation, whichever comes first.

 

For the three and nine months ended February 28, 2015, PDS expensed $62,499 and $187,497, respectively, related to this agreement.

 

For the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014, PDS expensed $54,167 and $120,835, respectively, related to this agreement.

 

We review our investment in PDS to determine whether events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. The primary factors we consider in our determination are the financial condition, operating performance and near term prospects of PDS. If a decline in value is deemed to be other than temporary, we would recognize an impairment loss.

 

4. Income Taxes

 

We have determined that it was more likely than not that all of our deferred tax assets will not be realized in the future due to our continuing pre-tax and taxable losses. As a result of this determination we have placed a full valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets. There have been no changes to our determination during the current fiscal year.

 

5. Stockholders’ Equity

 

Equity Transactions

 

The following table summarizes equity transactions during the nine months ended February 28, 2015:

 

   Common Stock   Additional Paid-in    Accumulated   Treasury 
   Shares   Amounts   Capital   Stock   Stock 
                          
Balance June 1, 2014   401,392,948   $4,382   $77,400,852   $(56,268,116)  $(14,625,868)
Net loss               (1,002,837)    
Balance February 28, 2015   401,392,948   $4,382   $77,400,852   $(57,270,953)  $(14,625,868)

 

Stock Option Activity

 

As of February 28, 2015, we had 1,335,000 fully vested options outstanding pursuant to our 2006 Stock Option Plan exercisable at a range of $0.10 to $0.12 per share expiring through 2018.

 

Share-based Compensation

 

Summary of Assumptions and Activity

 

The fair value of share-based awards to employees and directors is calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, even though this model was developed to estimate the fair value of freely tradable, fully transferable options without vesting restrictions, which differ significantly from our stock options.

 

17
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Stockholders’ Equity (continued)

 

The Black-Scholes model also requires subjective assumptions, including future stock price volatility and expected time to exercise, which greatly affect the calculated values. The expected term of options granted is derived from historical data on employee exercises and post-vesting employment termination behavior. The risk-free rate selected to value any particular grant is based on the U.S. Treasury rate that corresponds to the pricing term of the grant effective as of the date of the grant. The expected volatility is based on the historical volatilities of our common stock. These factors could change in the future, affecting the determination of share-based compensation expense in future periods.

 

   

Three Months Ended

February 28, 2015

(Unaudited)

  Nine Months Ended February 28, 2015 (Unaudited)  

Three Months Ended

February 28, 2014

(Unaudited)

 

Nine Months Ended

February 28, 2014

(Unaudited)

 
Expected term   *   *   *   5  Years  
Expected volatility   *   *   *   88 %  
Risk-free interest rate   *   *   *   1.05 %  

 

* No stock options were granted during these periods.

 

A summary of option activity as of February 28, 2015 and changes during the nine months then ended, is presented below:

 

   Shares   Weighted Average Exercise Price   Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)   Aggregate Intrinsic Value 
Options outstanding at June 1, 2014   1,335,000   $0.11           
Options granted      $           
Options exercised      $           
Options forfeited/expired      $           
Options outstanding at February 28, 2015   1,335,000   $    0.11       1.97   $         – 
Options vested and expected to vest at February 28, 2015   1,335,000   $0.11    1.97   $ 
Options exercisable at February 28, 2015   1,335,000   $0.11    1.97   $ 

 

There were no options granted or exercised during the nine months ended February 28, 2015.

 

The aggregate intrinsic value represents the differences in market price at the close of the quarter ($0.06 per share on February 28, 2015) and the exercise price of outstanding, in-the-money options (those options with exercise prices below $0.06) on February 28, 2015.

 

18
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Stockholders’ Equity (continued)

 

The following table summarizes our employee share-based compensation for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014, which was recorded in selling, general and administrative expense as follows:

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended   Three Months Ended  

Nine Months Ended

 
   February 28, 2015   February 28 2015   February 28, 2014  

February 28, 2014

 
Selling, general and administrative expense  $         –   $         –   $         –   $62,418 

 

6. Commitments and Contingencies

 

Litigation

 

Patent Litigation

 

On February 8, 2008, we, TPL and Alliacense Ltd. were named as defendants in separate lawsuits filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California by HTC Corporation, and Acer, Inc., and affiliated entities of each of them. (Those cases were deemed related and are referred to herein as the “N.D. Cal. Case”). HTC and Acer sought declaratory relief that their products did not infringe enforceable claims of the '336 patent. We alleged counterclaims for patent infringement of the '336 and '890 patents as to certain of their products.

 

The Court issued a first claim construction ruling in the N.D. Cal. Case on June 12, 2012, which preserved our ability to proceed on our infringement claims against Acer and HTC. Thereafter, Chief District Judge James Ware retired and the N.D. Cal. Case was reassigned to Magistrate Judge Paul S. Grewal, who held a supplemental claim construction hearing on November 30, 2012. Judge Grewal then issued a supplemental claim construction ruling on December 5, 2012, which preserved our ability to proceed with our infringement claims. On September 6, 2013 Acer entered into an MMP portfolio license agreement that also provided for the dismissal of all claims in the N.D. Cal Case, as well as the filing of a joint motion to terminate Acer as a respondent in the ITC 853 Investigation (described more fully below). On September 19, 2013 the ‘890 patent was dropped from the N.D. Cal Case pursuant to stipulation by all parties. A jury trial was held in the N.D. Cal. Case against HTC, beginning on September 23, 2013. On October 3, 2013, the jury returned a verdict in favor of us and TPL, finding that HTC had infringed the ‘336 patent with damages of $958,560. HTC appealed the jury verdict and we filed cross appeals regarding the period available for infringement damages related to the ‘890 patent. On December 30, 2014, the parties filed a joint motion requesting continuance of oral arguments and advised the court that a settlement which would result in the dismissal of the pending appeals had been reached. On January 7, 2015, the parties filed a stipulated motion to voluntarily dismiss the HTC appeal and our cross appeals on the basis of the settlement agreement. The Federal Circuit granted that motion and dismissed the appeal the same day.

 

19
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Commitments and Contingencies (continued)

 

On July 24, 2012 complaints were filed on behalf of us, TPL, and PDS against Acer, Inc., Amazon.com, Inc., Barnes & Noble, Inc., Garmin, Ltd., HTC Corporation, Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., Kyocera Corporation, LG Electronics, Nintendo Co., Ltd., Novatel Wireless, Inc., Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Sierra Wireless, Ltd. and ZTE Corporation with the U.S. International Trade Commission ("ITC") (ITC Investigation No. 337-TA-853, or the “853 Investigation”) alleging infringement of the ‘336 patent. We also filed new parallel proceedings in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California alleging infringement of the US 5,440,749 patent (the “‘749 patent”), and the ‘890 and ‘336 patents against Amazon.com Inc., Barnes & Noble Inc., Garmin Ltd., Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd., Kyocera Corporation, LG Electronics, Nintendo Co. Ltd., Novatel Wireless Inc., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Sierra Wireless Inc., and ZTE Corporation. We subsequently reached a settlement with Sierra Wireless, Inc. Trial proceedings before the ITC began on June 3, 2013 and concluded the following week. Settlements were subsequently reached with Kyocera Corporation, Amazon.com, Inc., and Acer, Inc. An Initial Determination (“ID”) was rendered on September 6, 2013 finding that none of the remaining Respondents had infringed the ‘336 patent. We filed a petition for review of the ID with the full ITC on September 23, 2013. On February 20, 2014, the ITC provided notice affirming the September 6, 2013 ID. We have chosen not to file an appeal of the ITC decision to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. All of the district court actions against the new parties (i.e., all respondents other than Acer and HTC) that have not previously settled and which had been stayed pending resolution of the 853 Investigation are proceeding.

 

On February 4, 2015 Barnes & Noble, Inc. filed a motion asserting that our cause of action on the ‘336 patent was barred by the Kessler doctrine because of the ITC’s finding of non-infringement. A hearing was held on March 17, 2015 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California regarding the matter. A ruling is expected shortly.

 

On April 10, 2015 multiple defendants in the District Court action filed a motion arguing for invalidity of the ‘749 patent. The court has scheduled a hearing for May 19, 2015 in regards to this matter.

 

Alliacense Disputes

 

PDS and Alliacense had been involved in multiple disputes regarding amounts asserted by Alliacense as owed by PDS.  The disputed amounts included sums for past services and advances.  On July 24, 2014, PDS and Alliacense entered into the Novation Agreement, which included provisions for resolving all of the claims in dispute for $623,000.  Of that amount, $300,000 was paid by PDS to Alliacense in November 2013, with the balance paid by PDS to Alliacense in two payments of $161,500 each on June 20, 2014 and July 25, 2014. The Novation Agreement also provided for the addition of a second licensing company, however, to-date Alliacense has fulfilled only a portion of its obligations under the Novation Agreement associated with the deployment of the second licensing company despite our repeated demands. The PDS Management Committee is undertaking actions to compel Alliacense to perform, which if unsuccessful, could lead to the termination of the Alliacense agreements.

 

PDS Arbitration- Independent Managing Member

 

In January 2014, our representative to the PDS management committee filed with the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) a demand for arbitration pursuant to the terms of the LLC Agreement.  The demand sought the appointment of third member, referred to as the independent manager member to the PDS management committee.  On December 16, 2014, the AAA appointed arbitrator selected an independent managing member from one of the nominees submitted by Patriot, thereby filling the open management committee seat.

 

20
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Commitments and Contingencies (continued)

 

401(k) Plan

 

Patriot has a retirement plan that complies with Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. All employees are eligible to participate in the plan. Patriot matches 100% of elective deferrals subject to a maximum of 4% of the participant’s eligible earnings. Patriot’s participants vest 33% per year over a three year period in their matching contributions. Patriot’s matching contributions during the three months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 were $4,370 and $3,642, respectively. Patriot’s matching contributions during the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 were $11,327 and $10,612, respectively.

 

Guarantees and Indemnities

We have made certain guarantees and indemnities, under which we may be required to make payments to a guaranteed or indemnified party. We indemnify our directors, officers, employees and agents to the maximum extent permitted under the laws of the State of Delaware. In connection with our facility lease, we have indemnified our lessor for certain claims arising from the use of the facility. The duration of the guarantees and indemnities varies, and in many cases is indefinite. These guarantees and indemnities do not provide for any limitation of the maximum potential future payments we could be obligated to make. Historically, we have not been obligated to make any payments for these obligations and no liabilities have been recorded for these guarantees and indemnities in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Escrow Shares

 

On August 31, 2009 we gave notice to the former shareholders of Crossflo and Union Bank of California (the “Escrow Agent”) under Section 2.5 of the Agreement and Plan of Merger between us and Crossflo (the “Agreement”), outlining damages incurred by us in conjunction with the acquisition of Crossflo, and seeking the return of 2,844,630 shares of our common stock held by the Escrow Agent.  Subsequently, former shareholders of Crossflo representing a majority of the escrowed shares responded in protest to our claim, delaying the release of the escrowed shares until a formal resolution is reached.  In the event we fail to prevail in our claim against the escrowed shares, we may be obligated to deposit into escrow approximately $256,000 of cash consideration due to the decline in our average stock price over the one year escrow period, calculated in accordance with the Section 2.5 of the Agreement.  We have evaluated the potential for loss regarding our claim and believe that it is probable that the resolution of this issue will not result in a material obligation to the Company, although there is no assurance of this.  Accordingly, we have not recorded a liability for this matter.

 

7. Subsequent Events

 

We have evaluated subsequent events after the balance sheet date and based on our evaluation, management has determined that no subsequent events have occurred that would require recognition in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements or disclosure in the notes thereto other than as disclosed in the accompanying notes.

 

21
 

 

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

THE FOLLOWING DISCUSSION AND THE REST OF THIS QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q INCLUDES FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS WITH RESPECT TO OUR FUTURE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE. ACTUAL RESULTS MAY DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE CURRENTLY ANTICIPATED AND FROM HISTORICAL RESULTS DEPENDING UPON A VARIETY OF FACTORS, INCLUDING THOSE DESCRIBED BELOW UNDER THE SUB-HEADING, "RISK FACTORS". SEE ALSO OUR ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K FOR THE YEAR ENDED MAY 31, 2014.

 

Overview

 

In June 2005, we entered into a series of agreements with TPL and others to facilitate the pursuit of unlicensed users of our intellectual property. In October 2011 we settled litigation with TPL that was initiated by us over matters related to the management of the MMP portfolio. In July 2012 we entered into additional agreements with TPL, PDS and the TPL affiliate, Alliacense, including the Licensing Program Services Agreement (the “Program Agreement”) in furtherance of the management and commercialization of the MMP portfolio. On July 24, 2014, the Program Agreement was amended with PDS and Alliacense entering into the Amended Alliacense Services and Novation Agreement (the “Novation Agreement”). The July 2012 and 2014 agreements facilitate an aggressive licensing and litigation strategy which currently includes actions in the U.S. District Court against multiple companies alleged to be infringers of the MMP portfolio. We continue to believe that the significant investment in legal effort and costs incurred to date at PDS is necessary for the protection of our interests in the MMP portfolio and its future success, although to date it has generated mixed results.

 

To the extent MMP portfolio license proceeds are insufficient; we expect working capital contributions may need to be made to PDS in the future. Cash shortfalls currently experienced by PDS will have an adverse effect on our liquidity. To date, we have determined that it is in the best interests of the MMP licensing program that we contribute our 50% share of additional capital to PDS in the event license revenues received by PDS are insufficient.

 

On April 9, 2015 PDS’s cash balance was $586,445. Management’s plans for the continued operation of PDS rely on the ability of PDS to obtain license agreements to cover its operational costs. PDS has experienced a decline in licensing revenues and has not obtained significant license revenues since September 2013 and it is unclear when any additional licensing revenues may be generated.

 

The Novation Agreement, which amended the Program Agreement, provides for the utilization of a second licensing agent, which was engaged on October 10, 2014, in order to complement the MMP licensing commercialization, and increase the opportunity for the successful licensing of the MMP portfolio. However, to-date Alliacense has fulfilled only a portion of its obligations under the Novation Agreement associated with the deployment of the second licensing company despite our repeated demands.

 

In January 2014, our representative to the PDS management committee filed with the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) a demand for arbitration seeking the appointment of a third member, referred to as the independent manager member, to the PDS management committee in an effort to eliminate potential deadlock on issues important to PDS. On December 16, 2014, the AAA appointed arbitrator selected an independent managing member from one of the nominees submitted by Patriot, thereby filling the open management committee seat.

 

Management expects to continue to incur significant legal expenses for the continued operation of PDS. PDS has been incurring significant third-party costs for expert testimony, depositions and other related legal costs pursuant to litigation in U.S. District Court and actions with the ITC Investigation No. 337-TA-853 although the ITC matters have now concluded. We could be required to make capital contributions to PDS for any future litigation related costs in the event that PDS does not receive sufficient licensing revenues to pay these expenses.

 

22
 

 

On March 20, 2013, TPL filed a petition under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. On July 18, 2014, TPL and the creditors’ committee announced that a term sheet serving as the basis for a Joint Plan of Reorganization (the “Joint Plan”) had been agreed to. The Joint Plan was confirmed by the Bankruptcy Court on February 11, 2015 with the entered confirmation order becoming final on April 2, 2015.  The Joint Plan provides that the Effective Date will be the later of (i) the first business day that is at least 30 days after the entry of the confirmation order or (ii) the first Business Day on which the reorganized company has sufficient cash to make all payments required under the Plan on the Effective Date.  We have been appointed to the creditors’ committee and have been closely monitoring the progress in this matter as it relates to our interest in PDS. In the event we are required to provide funding to PDS that is not reciprocated by TPL, our ownership percentage in PDS will increase and we will have a controlling financial interest in PDS, in which case, we will consolidate PDS in our consolidated financial statements.

 

We have been informed by Agility IP Law, LLP (patent litigation counsel for Phoenix Digital Solutions/Patriot for the assertion of the ‘336, ‘890 and ‘749 patents) that Agility will be dissolving effective April 17, 2015. The attorneys of Agility who have worked on the assertion of the patents will be moving to other law firms, and will not be able to continue to represent PDS/Patriot in the pending cases in the Northern District of California. However, PDS has hired the firm of Nelson Bumgardner, P.C. to take over as lead trial counsel in the Northern California cases to continue protecting our intellectual property rights.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, which require us to make estimates and judgments that significantly affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from those estimates, and such differences could affect the results of operations reported in future periods. We believe the following critical accounting policies affect our most significant estimates and judgments used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.

 

1.     Investments in Marketable Securities

 

We classify our investments in marketable securities in certificates of deposit at the time of purchase as held-to-maturity and reevaluate such classifications at each balance sheet date. Held-to-maturity investments consist of securities that we have the intent and ability to retain until maturity. These securities are recorded at cost and adjusted for the amortization of premiums and discounts, which approximates fair value. Cash inflows and outflows related to the sale and purchase of investments are classified as investing activities in our condensed consolidated statements of cash flows.

 

2.     Investment in Affiliated Company

 

We have a 50% interest in PDS. We account for our investment using the equity method of accounting since the investment provides us the ability to exercise significant influence, but not control, over the investee. Significant influence is generally deemed to exist if we have an ownership interest in the voting stock of the investee of between 20% and 50%, although other factors, such as representation on the investee’s Board of Directors, are considered in determining whether the equity method of accounting is appropriate. Under the equity method of accounting, the investment, originally recorded at cost, is adjusted to recognize our share of net earnings or losses of the investee and is recognized in the consolidated statements of operations in the caption “Equity in earnings (loss) of affiliated company” and also is adjusted by contributions to and distributions from PDS.

 

PDS, as an unconsolidated equity investee, recognizes revenue from technology license agreements at the time a contract is entered into, the license method is determined (paid-in-advance or on-going royalty), performance obligations under the license agreement are satisfied, and the realization of revenue is assured which is generally upon the receipt of the license proceeds. PDS may at times enter into license agreements whereby contingent revenues are recognized as one or more contractual milestones are met.

 

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We review our investment in PDS to determine whether events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. The primary factors we consider in our determination are the financial condition, operating performance and near term prospects of PDS. If a decline in value is deemed to be other than temporary, we would recognize an impairment loss.

 

3.     Share-Based Compensation

 

Share-based compensation expense recognized during the period is based on the grant date fair value of the portion of share-based payment awards ultimately expected to vest during the period. As share-based compensation expense recognized in the consolidated statements of operations is based on awards ultimately expected to vest, it has been reduced for estimated forfeitures. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Forfeiture rates are based on historical forfeiture experience and estimated future employee forfeitures.

 

4.     Income Taxes

 

We follow authoritative guidance in accounting for uncertainties in income taxes. This authoritative guidance prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement requirement for the financial statement recognition of a tax position that has been taken or is expected to be taken on a tax return and also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. Under this guidance we may only recognize tax positions that meet a “more likely than not” threshold.

 

We follow authoritative guidance to evaluate whether a valuation allowance should be established against our deferred tax assets based on the consideration of all available evidence using a “more likely than not” standard. In making such judgments, significant weight is given to evidence that can be objectively verified. We are assessing our deferred tax assets under more likely than not scenarios in which they may be realized through future income.

 

We have determined that it was more likely than not that all of our deferred tax assets will not be realized in the future due to our continuing pre-tax and taxable losses. As a result of this determination we have placed a full valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets.

 

5.     Assessment of Contingent Liabilities

 

We are involved in various legal matters, disputes, and patent infringement claims which arise in the ordinary course of our business. We accrue for any estimated losses at the time when we can make a reliable estimate of such loss and it is probable that it has been incurred. By their very nature, contingencies are difficult to estimate. We continually evaluate information related to all contingencies to determine that the basis on which we have recorded our estimated exposure is appropriate.

 

Results of Operations

 

Comparison of the Three Months Ended February 28, 2015 and Three Months Ended February 28, 2014.

 

   Three months ended 
   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014 
Selling, general and administrative  $247,668   $379,004 

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased from approximately $379,000 for the three months ended February 28, 2014 to approximately $248,000 for the three months ended February 28, 2015. The decrease consisted primarily of approximately $110,000 in legal fees as we received reimbursement from PDS for our legal fees relating to PDS cases.

 

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   Three months ended 
   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014 
Other income (expense):          
Interest income  $2,667   $2,458 
Equity in earnings (loss) of affiliated company   269,314    (29,889)
Total other income (expense), net  $271,981   $(27,431)

 

Our other income (expense) for the three months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 included equity in the earnings (loss) of PDS of approximately $269,000 and $(30,000), respectively. Our investment in PDS is accounted for in accordance with the equity method of accounting for investments. The change in the earnings of PDS is due to the increase in licensing revenue for the current period.

 

   Three months ended 
   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014 
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes  $24,313   $(406,435)

 

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes increased from a loss of approximately $(406,000) for the three months ended February 28, 2014 to income of approximately $24,000 for the three months ended February 28, 2015 due to the change in equity in earnings of PDS.

 

Benefit for income taxes

 

During the three months ended February 28, 2014 we recorded a benefit for income taxes related to federal and California taxes of approximately $(10,400).

 

Results of Discontinued Operations

 

Comparison of the Three Months Ended February 28, 2015 and Three Months Ended February 28, 2014.

 

   Three months ended 
   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014 
Other income:          
Royalty income  $969   $ 
Total other income  $969   $ 

 

Royalty income for the three months ended February 28, 2015 of approximately $1,000 consists of royalties earned for the period related to PDSG. On April 30, 2012, we negotiated a sale transaction in which we sold substantially all of the assets of PDSG in exchange for a royalty on PDSG revenues for a period of three years.

 

Net income (loss)

 

Our net income (loss) for the three months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014, was $25,282 and $(396,010) respectively.

 

Comparison of the Nine Months Ended February 28, 2015 and Nine Months Ended February 28, 2014.

 

   Nine months ended 
   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014 
Selling, general and administrative  $977,666   $1,191,149 

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased from approximately $1,191,000 for the nine months ended February 28, 2014 to approximately $978,000 for the nine months ended February 28, 2015. The decrease consisted primarily of approximately $105,000 in legal fees as we received reimbursement from PDS for our legal fees relating to PDS cases. Other decreases consisted of approximately $12,000 in travel expenses, approximately $11,000 in accounting fees and approximately $62,000 in non-cash stock based compensation expense.

 

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   Nine months ended 
   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014 
Other income (expense):          
Interest income  $7,299   $3,623 
Other income   60     
Realized loss on marketable securities       (347)
Equity in earnings (loss) of affiliated company   (34,364)   356,930 
Total other income (expense), net  $(27,005)  $360,206 

 

Our other income (expense) for the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 included equity in the earnings (loss) of PDS of approximately $(34,000) and $357,000, respectively. Our investment in PDS is accounted for in accordance with the equity method of accounting for investments. The change in the earnings of PDS is due to the decrease in licensing revenue during the nine month period ended February 28, 2015.

 

   Nine months ended 
   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014 
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes  $(1,004,671)  $(830,943)

 

Loss from continuing operations before income taxes increased from approximately $(831,000) for the nine months ended February 28, 2014 to approximately $(1,005,000) for the nine months ended February 28, 2015 due to the change in equity in earnings of PDS.

 

Provision for income taxes

 

During the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 we recorded a provision for income taxes related to federal and California taxes of approximately $2,400 and $25,000, respectively.

 

Results of Discontinued Operations

 

Comparison of the Nine Months Ended February 28, 2015 and Nine Months Ended February 28, 2014.

 

   Nine months ended 
   February 28, 2015   February 28, 2014 
Other income:          
Royalty income  $4,234   $40,583 
Total other income  $4,234   $40,583 

 

Royalty income for the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 of approximately $4,000 and $41,000, respectively, consists of royalties earned for the period related to PDSG. On April 30, 2012, we negotiated a sale transaction in which we sold substantially all of the assets of PDSG in exchange for a royalty on PDSG revenues for a period of three years.

 

Net loss

 

Our net loss for the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014, was $(1,002,837) and $(815,648), respectively.

 

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Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Liquidity

 

Our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment balances decreased from approximately $6,418,000 as of May 31, 2014 to approximately $5,467,000 as of February 28, 2015. We also have restricted cash balances amounting to approximately $21,000 as of May 31, 2014 and February 28, 2015. Total current assets decreased from approximately $6,700,000 as of May 31, 2014 to approximately $5,569,000 as of February 28, 2015. Total current liabilities amounted to approximately $290,000 and approximately $69,000 as of May 31, 2014 and February 28, 2015, respectively. The change in our working capital position as of February 28, 2015 as compared with May 31, 2014 results primarily from payment of our operating expenses.

 

Cash shortfalls currently experienced by PDS will have an adverse effect on our liquidity. To date, we have determined that it is in the best interests of the MMP licensing program that we provide our 50% share of capital to provide for PDS expenses including legal retainers, and litigation related payments in the event license revenues received by PDS are insufficient to meet these needs. We believe it is likely that contributions to PDS to fund working capital will continue to be required.

 

PDS had been incurring significant third-party costs for expert testimony, depositions and other related litigation costs. We could be required to make capital contributions to PDS for any future litigation related costs in the event that PDS does not receive sufficient licensing revenues to pay these expenses.

 

On March 20, 2013, TPL filed a petition under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. On July 18, 2014, TPL and the creditors’ committee announced that a term sheet serving as the basis for a Joint Plan of Reorganization (the “Joint Plan”) had been agreed to. The Joint Plan was confirmed by the Bankruptcy Court on February 11, 2015 with the entered confirmation order becoming final on April 2, 2015.  The Joint Plan provides that the Effective Date will be the later of (i) the first business day that is at least 30 days after the entry of the confirmation order or (ii) the first Business Day on which the reorganized company has sufficient cash to make all payments required under the Plan on the Effective Date.  We have been appointed to the creditors’ committee and have been closely monitoring the progress in this matter as it relates to our interest in PDS. In the event we are required to provide funding to PDS that is not reciprocated by TPL, our ownership percentage in PDS will increase and we will have a controlling financial interest in PDS, in which case, we will consolidate PDS in our consolidated financial statements.

 

Cash Flows From Operating Activities

 

Cash used in operating activities of continuing operations was approximately $1,064,000 and $1,263,000 for the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The principal components of the current period amount were net loss from continuing operations of approximately $1,007,000 and changes in accounts payable and accrued expenses of approximately $217,000. These decreases were primarily offset by the equity in loss of affiliated company of approximately $34,000 and changes in prepaid expenses and other current assets of approximately $136,000. The principal components of the prior period are the prior period changes in accounts payable and accrued expenses, equity in earnings of affiliated company, and loss from continuing operations offset by share-based compensation expense, prior period changes in prepaid expenses, other current assets and income tax payable.

 

Cash provided by operating activities of discontinued operations was approximately $52,000 and $66,000 for the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Cash provided by discontinued operations activities relates to royalty revenue received during the period.

 

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Cash Flows From Investing Activities

 

Cash used in investing activities of continuing operations for the nine months ended February 28, 2015 and 2014 was approximately $692,000 and $431,000, respectively. Cash activities for the current and prior periods were primarily attributable to purchases and sales of marketable securities and distributions from PDS.

 

Cash Flows From Financing Activities

 

Cash used in financing activities for the nine months ended February 28, 2014 was approximately $84,000 consisting of common stock purchases for treasury.

 

Capital Resources

 

Our current liquid cash resources as of February 28, 2015, are expected to provide the funds necessary to support our operations through at least the next twelve months. The cash flows from our interest in PDS represent our primary significant source of cash generation. In the event of a continued decrease or interruption in MMP portfolio licensing we will incur a significant reduction to our cash position. It is highly unlikely that we would be able to obtain any additional sources of financing to supplement our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment position of $5,466,792 at February 28, 2015.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In August 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-15, "Presentation of Financial Statements – Going Concern." ASU 2014-15 provides guidance in generally accepted accounting principles about management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures. ASU 2014-15 is effective for annual reporting periods ending after December 15, 2016 and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter (fiscal year 2017 for the Company). Early adoption is permitted. We have not yet determined the potential effects of the adoption of ASU 2014-15 on our condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

Risk Factors

 

We urge you to carefully consider the following discussion of risks as well as other information regarding our common stock. We believe the following to be our most significant risk factors as of the date this report is being filed. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones we face. Please refer to our risk factors contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended May 31, 2014 for additional risk factors.

 

Delays In Deploying A Second Licensing Agent Could Have A Significant And Adverse Effect On Us.

 

Alliacense had been PDS’s sole licensing agent implementing the MMP licensing program.  Alliacense has not generated significant licensing revenues since September 2013. We believe that the deployment of a second licensing company is critical to the successful implementation of the MMP licensing program. Pursuant to the Amended Alliacense Services and Novation Agreement, a second licensing company was engaged by PDS; however, to-date Alliacense has fulfilled only a portion of its obligations under the Novation Agreement associated with the deployment of the second licensing company despite our repeated demands. Alliacense’s inability or unwillingness to fulfill its obligations under the Novation Agreement to enable the successful deployment of the second licensing company could have a significant and adverse effect on our ability to generate revenues from the MMP portfolio.

 

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We May Be Required To Fund Our Joint Venture’s Legal Costs.

 

On March 20, 2013 TPL filed a petition under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code, with the plan of reorganization expected to become effective in May 2015. While TPL’s bankruptcy and reorganization does not at present affect the licensing agreement between PDS and Alliacense, PDS has incurred significant legal costs in ongoing matters before the U.S. District Court. If PDS does not receive sufficient licensing revenues to pay these expenses, we may be required to pay these expenses. In the event the cost of legal actions exceeds our ability to fund these efforts, our options for additional sources of financing may be limited.

 

The Impact Of TPL’s Bankruptcy And Reorganization On PDS And The Future Success Of The Licensing Program Is Uncertain.

 

While TPL’s bankruptcy and reorganization does not appear to affect the licensing program between PDS and Alliacense, the consequences should the reorganization under Chapter 11 be unsuccessful, which could include lawsuits from creditors or a motion to convert the case to Chapter 7, would be uncertain and potentially adverse to PDS and the licensing program. For example, if the case is converted, a trustee may propose the sale of TPL’s interest in PDS to be sold to an unknown third party, if allowed by applicable law and approved by the bankruptcy court. It is unclear how that may affect the operation of PDS or the licensing program, but it may be adverse.

 

We Have Reported Licensing Income In Prior Fiscal Years Which May Not Be Indicative Of Our Future Income.

 

We have entered into license agreements through our joint venture with TPL and have reported income from the joint venture for the fiscal years 2006 to 2011 and 2013 to 2014. The joint venture has recorded a loss for the nine months ended February 28, 2015. Because of the uncertain nature of the negotiations that lead to license revenues, pending litigation with companies which we allege have infringed on our patent portfolio, the possibility of legislative action regarding patent rights, and the possible effect of new judicial interpretations of patent laws, we may not receive revenues from such agreements in the future consistent with amounts received in the past, and we may not receive future revenues from license agreements at all.

 

We Are Dependent Upon A Joint Venture In Which Our Role Is Of A Passive Nature For Substantially All Of Our Income.

 

In June 2005, we entered into a joint venture with TPL, which as a result of agreements entered into in June 2005, July 2012 and July 2014, TPL and its affiliate Alliacense is responsible for the licensing and enforcement of our microprocessor patent portfolio. This joint venture has been the source of substantially all of our income since June 2005. Therefore, in light of the absence of significant revenue from other sources, and until the second licensing entity has demonstrated an ability to generate significant cash flows, we should be regarded as entirely dependent on the success or failure of the licensing and prosecution efforts of TPL and Alliacense on behalf of the joint venture, and the ability of TPL and Alliacense to obtain capital when necessary to fund their operations.

 

We Have Been Involved In Multiple Disputes With Our Joint Venture Partner.

 

We have been involved in multiple disputes with our joint venture partner TPL and its affiliate Alliacense. During times when there are only two appointed managers of the joint venture, a deadlock can exist on important issues that may not be resolved quickly. In the event of a protracted deadlock, the joint venture may not be able to take actions when appropriate or necessary. Previously we have had to initiate formal arbitration proceedings seeking the appointment of an independent manager to the management committee of the joint venture (see Note 6 to the condensed consolidated financial statements). Although an independent manager is currently in place, we have concluded that any future absences of an independent manager may have a negative impact on the licensing program and PDS’s business.

 

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Our Joint Venture Is At Risk For Going Concern And An Inability To Meet Certain Obligations.

 

PDS, our joint venture with TPL, which received a going concern opinion in its May 31, 2014, 2013, 2012 and 2011 financial statements, has experienced significant declines in revenues while at the same time incurring significant legal costs associated with pending litigation with companies which we allege have infringed on our patent portfolio.

 

PDS’s licensing revenues have declined over recent years to a point where PDS’s ability to make future payments is in substantial doubt unless licensing revenues substantially increase in the near term. In the event that PDS does not have the funds to pay one or more of the aforementioned costs, we and TPL must decide whether to contribute additional capital to PDS to fund such payments and due to TPL’s bankruptcy and reorganization, we may be required to pay these expenses without any contribution from TPL.

 

Our Microprocessor Patents Are In The Process Of Expiring.

 

We have two unexpired U.S. patents, which will expire in 2015, and three European and two Japanese patents expiring in 2016. We also have five U.S. patents, six European, and one Japanese patent all of which expired between August 2009 and August 19, 2014. While expired patents may have certain retrospective statutory benefits, their value as assets for licensing and cash generation is significantly diminished.

 

A Successful Challenge To Our Intellectual Property Rights Could Have A Significant And Adverse Effect On Us.

 

A successful challenge to our ownership of our technology or the proprietary nature of our intellectual property could materially damage our business prospects. We rely on a combination of patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secret laws, confidentiality procedures and licensing arrangements to protect our intellectual property rights. With respect to our core technologies, we currently have two unexpired U.S., three European and two Japanese patents issued. Any issued patent may be challenged and invalidated. Any claims allowed from existing patents may not be of sufficient scope or strength to provide significant protection. Our competitors may also be able to design around our patents.

 

Vigorous protection and pursuit of intellectual property rights or positions characterize the fiercely competitive semiconductor industry, which has resulted in significant and often protracted and expensive litigation. Therefore, our competitors and others may assert that our technologies infringe on their patents or proprietary rights. Persons we believe are infringing our patents are likely to vigorously defend their actions and assert that our patents are invalid. Problems with patents or other rights could result in significant costs, and limit future license revenue. If infringement claims against us are deemed valid or if our infringement claims are successfully opposed, we may not be able to obtain appropriate licenses on acceptable terms or at all. Litigation could be costly and time-consuming but may be necessary to protect our future patent and/or technology license positions or to defend against infringement claims. From time to time parties have petitioned the USPTO to re-examine certain of our patents. An adverse decision in litigation or in the re-examination process could have a very significant and adverse effect on our business.

 

We are party to multiple lawsuits regarding the MMP portfolio and have had mixed results in our litigation efforts to date. See footnote 6 to our condensed consolidated financial statements and Part II, Item 1. “Legal Proceedings” in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q for more information.

 

In the event that one or more of these lawsuits regarding the MMP portfolio is not resolved in our favor, such outcome (or lack of an outcome) could weaken the MMP portfolio which would have a negative effect on PDS's ability to procure future license revenues and, therefore, adversely affect PDS's and our cash flows.

 

A New Law Firm Has Recently Been Engaged To Defend And Enforce Our Intellectual Property Rights.

 

On April 13, 2015, PDS engaged a law firm to replace the former law firm in connection with the defense and enforcement of our intellectual property rights. The new law firm will be required to spend time and resources to understand our intellectual property rights and status of the lawsuits currently in progress. The new law firm may not make the same recommendations as our former law firm and our strategies with respect to the lawsuit may change. The failure of the new law firm to quickly understand our intellectual property rights and status of the lawsuits currently in progress and implement a cohesive strategy with respect thereto could have a material adverse effect on our ability to defend and prosecute such lawsuits and, therefore, have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and result of operations.

 

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We Are Dependent On A Single Law Firm To Defend And Enforce Our Intellectual Property Rights.

 

While PDS has recently engaged a new law firm, a single law firm continues to defend and enforce our intellectual property rights. Any significant interruption in their services, or the loss of their services for any reason, would have a material adverse effect on our ability to defend and prosecute such lawsuits and, therefore, have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and result of operations. The law firm’s services could be disrupted for a variety of reasons, and any disruption would have a material adverse effect on our business. Our inability to engage the services of a new law firm in a timely manner could have a substantial negative effect on our business.

 

A Change In Our Relationship With PDS Could Change The Way We Account For Our Interest In The Future.

 

Our investment in PDS is accounted for under the equity method, we record as part of other income or expense our share of the increase or decrease in the equity of this company in which we have invested. It is possible that, in the future, our relationships and/or our interests in or with this equity method investee could change. Such potential future changes could result in consolidation of such entity which could result in changes in our reported results.

 

We May Issue Preferred Stock, And The Terms Of Such Preferred Stock May Reduce The Value Of Our Common Stock.

 

We are authorized to issue up to a total of 5,000,000 shares of preferred stock in one or more series. Our Board of Directors may determine whether to issue shares of preferred stock without further action by holders of our Common Stock. If we issue shares of preferred stock, it could affect the rights or reduce the value of our Common Stock. In particular, specific rights granted to future holders of preferred stock could be used to restrict our ability to merge with or sell our assets to a third party. These terms may include voting rights, preferences as to dividends and liquidation, conversion and redemption rights, and sinking fund provisions. If we seek capital for our business, such capital may be raised through the issuance of preferred stock.

 

If A Large Number Of Our Shares Are Sold All At Once Or In Blocks, The Market Price Of Our Shares Would Most Likely Decline.

 

Most of our shareholders are not restricted in the price at which they can sell their shares. Shares sold at a price below the current market price at which our Common Stock is trading may cause the market price of our Common Stock to decline.

 

The Market For Our Stock Is Subject To Rules Relating To Low-Priced Stock (“Penny Stock”) Which May Limit Our Ability To Raise Capital.

 

Our Common Stock is currently listed for trading in the OTCQB operated by OTC Markets, Inc. and is subject to the “penny stock rules” adopted pursuant to Section 15(g) of the Exchange Act. In general, the penny stock rules apply to non-NASDAQ or non-national stock exchange companies whose common stock trades at less than $5.00 per share or which have tangible net worth of less than $5,000,000 ($2,000,000 if the company has been operating for three or more years). Such rules require, among other things, that brokers who trade “penny stock” on behalf of persons other than “established customers” complete certain documentation, make suitability inquiries of investors and provide investors with certain information concerning trading in the security, including a risk disclosure document, quote information, broker’s commission information and rights and remedies available to investors in penny stocks. Many brokers have decided not to trade “penny stock” because of the requirements of the penny stock rules, and as a result, the number of broker-dealers willing to act as market makers in such securities is limited. The “penny stock rules,” therefore, may have an adverse impact on the market for our Common Stock and may affect our ability to raise additional capital if we decide to do so.

 

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Our Share Price Could Decline As A Result Of Short Sales.

 

When an investor sells stock that he does not own, it is known as a short sale. The seller, anticipating that the price of the stock will go down, intends to buy stock to cover his sale at a later date. If the price of the stock goes down, the seller will profit to the extent of the difference between the price at which he originally sold it less his later purchase price. Short sales enable the seller to profit in a down market. Short sales could place significant downward pressure on the price of our Common Stock. Penny stocks which do not trade on an exchange, such as our Common Stock, are particularly susceptible to short sales.

 

Our Future Success Depends In Significant Part Upon The Continued Services Of Our Key Senior Management.

 

Our future success depends in significant part upon the continued services of our senior management. The competition for highly qualified personnel is intense, and we may not be able to retain our key employees or attract and retain additional highly qualified personnel in the future. None of our employees are represented by a labor union, and we consider our relations with our employees to be good. None of our employees are covered by key man life insurance policies.

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

As required by Rule 13a-15(b) under the Exchange Act, as of February 28, 2015, the end of the period to which this quarterly report relates, we have carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures. This evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Interim Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer.

 

Disclosure controls and procedures are controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives, and management necessarily applies its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.  Based on the evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of February 28, 2015, our management, with the participation of our Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of such date, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no significant changes to our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during our most recently completed fiscal quarter that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

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PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

 

Patent Litigation

 

Our patent litigation with TPL and Alliacense Ltd. in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California against Acer, Inc., HTC Corporation and affiliated entities, as described in Item 3 – “Legal Proceedings” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended May 31, 2014 ("Annual Report"), has been settled as follows: on September 6, 2013 Acer entered into an MMP portfolio license agreement that also provided for the dismissal of all claims in the N.D. Cal Case, as well as the filing of a joint motion to terminate Acer as a respondent in the ITC 853 Investigation. A jury trial was held in the N.D. Cal. Case against HTC, beginning on September 23, 2013. On October 3, 2013, the jury returned a verdict in favor of us and TPL, finding that HTC had infringed the ‘336 patent with damages of $958,560. HTC has appealed the jury verdict and we have filed cross appeals regarding the period available for infringement damages related to the ‘890 patent. On December 30, 2014, the parties filed a joint motion requesting continuance of oral arguments and advised the court that a settlement which would result in the dismissal of the pending appeals had been reached. On January 7, 2015, the parties filed a stipulated motion to voluntarily dismiss the HTC appeal and our cross appeals on the basis of the settlement agreement. The Federal Circuit granted that motion and dismissed the appeal the same day.

 

Our patent litigation with TPL and PDS in the ITC against Barnes & Noble Inc., Garmin Ltd., HTC Corporation, Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd., LG Electronics, Nintendo Co. Ltd., Novatel Wireless Inc., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., and ZTE Corporation, as described in Item 3 – “Legal Proceedings” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended May 31, 2014, is still ongoing. During August and September 2013, Kyocera Corporation and Amazon.com, Inc. settled their litigation in this matter with PDS. An Initial Determination (“ID”) was rendered on September 6, 2013 finding that none of the remaining Respondents had infringed the ‘336 patent. We filed a petition for review of the ID with the full ITC on September 23, 2013. On February 20, 2014, the ITC provided notice affirming the September 6, 2013 ID. We have chosen not to file an appeal of the ITC decision to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. All of the district court actions against the new parties (i.e., all respondents other than Acer and HTC) that have not previously settled and which had been stayed pending resolution of the 853 Investigation have proceeded.

On February 4, 2015 Barnes & Noble, Inc. filed a motion asserting that our cause of action on the ‘336 patent was barred by the Kessler doctrine because of the ITC’s finding of non-infringement. A hearing was held on March 17, 2015 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California regarding the matter. A ruling is expected shortly.

 

On April 10, 2015 multiple defendants in the District Court action filed a motion arguing for invalidity of the ‘749 patent. The Court has scheduled a hearing for May 19, 2015 in regards to this matter.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors

 

Please see Part I, Item 2, above, for our risk factors.

 

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

None.

 

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

 

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Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

 

None.

 

Item 5. Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6. Exhibits

 

Those exhibits marked with an asterisk (*) refer to exhibits filed herewith. The other exhibits are incorporated herein by reference, as indicated in the following list.

 

Those exhibits marked with a cross (†) refer to management contracts or compensatory plans or arrangements.

 

Exhibit No.

Document
   
2.1

Agreement and Plan of Merger dated August 4, 2008, among Patriot Scientific Corporation, PTSC Acquisition 1 Corp, Crossflo Systems, Inc. and the Crossflo principal officers, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 11, 2008 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   

3.1

 

Original Articles of incorporation of Patriot Scientific Corporation’s predecessor, Patriot Financial Corporation, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Registration Statement on Form S-18, (Commission file No. 33-23143-FW)

   

3.2

 

Articles of Amendment of Patriot Financial Corporation, as filed with the Colorado Secretary of State on July 21, 1988, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Registration Statement on Form S-18, (Commission file No. 33-23143-FW)

   

3.3

 

Certificate of Incorporation of Patriot Scientific Corporation, as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on March 24, 1992, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to our Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 12, 1992 (Commission file No. 33-23143-FW)

   

3.3.1

 

Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of Patriot Scientific Corporation, as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on April 18, 1995, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3.1 to our Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the fiscal year ended May 31, 1995 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   

3.3.2

 

Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of Patriot Scientific Corporation, as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on June 24, 1997, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3.2 to our Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the fiscal year ended May 31, 1997, filed July 18, 1997 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   

3.3.3

 

Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of Patriot Scientific Corporation, as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on April 28, 2000, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3.3 to Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed May 5, 2000 (Commission file No. 333-36418)

   

3.3.4

 

Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of Patriot Scientific Corporation, as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on May 6, 2002, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3.4 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended February 28, 2009, filed April 9, 2009 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   

 

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3.3.5

 

Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of Patriot Scientific Corporation, as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on October 16, 2003, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3.5 to Registration Statement on Form SB-2 filed May 21, 2004 (Commission file No. 333-115752)

   

3.3.6

 

Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of Patriot Scientific Corporation, as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on April 29, 2005, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3.6 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended February 28, 2009, filed April 9, 2009 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   

3.3.7

 

Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of Patriot Scientific Corporation, as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on November 14, 2005, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3.7 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended February 28, 2009, filed April 9, 2009 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   
3.3.8

Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of Patriot Scientific Corporation, as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on March 18, 2009, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3.8 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended May 31, 2009, filed August 14, 2009 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   
3.4

Articles and Certificate of Merger of Patriot Financial Corporation into Patriot Scientific Corporation dated May 1, 1992, with Agreement and Plan of Merger attached thereto as Exhibit A, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.4 to our Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 12, 1992 (Commission file No. 33-23143-FW)

   
3.5

Certificate of Merger issued by the Delaware Secretary of State on May 8, 1992, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.5 to our Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 12, 1992 (Commission file No. 33-23143-FW)

   
3.6

Certificate of Merger issued by the Colorado Secretary of State on May 12, 1992, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.6 to our Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 12, 1992 (Commission file No. 33-23143-FW)

   
3.7

Bylaws of the Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.7 to our Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 12, 1992 (Commission file No. 33-23143-FW)

   
3.7.1

Amendment to bylaws of the Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.7.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 4, 2010 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   
4.1

Specimen common stock certificate, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 Form 8-K dated May 12, 1992 (Commission file No. 33-23143-FW)

   
4.2†

2006 Stock Option Plan of the Company as amended and restated, incorporated by reference to Appendix C to the Company Proxy Statement filed September 22, 2008 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   
10.1

Master Agreement, dated as of June 7, 2005, by and among the Company, Technology Properties Limited Inc., a California corporation and Charles H. Moore, an individual, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.40 to Form 8-K filed June 15, 2005 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   

 

35
 

 

10.2

Commercialization Agreement dated as of June 7, 2005 by and among the JV LLC, Technology Properties Limited Inc., a California corporation, and the Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.41 to Form 8-K filed June 15, 2005 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   
10.3

Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement of JV LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, dated as of June 7, 2005, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.42 to Form 8-K filed June 15, 2005 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   
10.4†

Employment Agreement dated September 17, 2007 by and between the Company and Clifford L. Flowers, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed September 19, 2007 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   
10.5

Form of Indemnification Agreement by and between the Company and the Board of Directors, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to Form 10-K filed August 29, 2011 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   

10.6

 

Licensing Program Services Agreement effective July 11, 2012 among Phoenix Digital Solutions, LLC, Alliacense Limited, LLC, Technology Properties Limited, LLC, and the Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to our Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 11, 2012 (Commission file No. 000-22182) (Confidential treatment has been requested with respect to portions of this agreement)

   

10.7

 

Agreement effective July 11, 2012 between Technology Properties Limited, LLC and the Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to our Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 11, 2012 (Commission file No. 000-22182) (Confidential treatment has been requested with respect to portions of this agreement)

   
10.8

Agreement effective July 17, 2012 among Phoenix Digital Solutions, LLC, Alliacense Limited, LLC, Technology Properties Limited, LLC, and the Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to our Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 11, 2012 (Commission file No. 000-22182) (Confidential treatment has been requested with respect to portions of this agreement)

   
10.9

Agreement effective July 24, 2014 among Phoenix Digital Solutions, LLC and Alliacense Limited, LLC, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to Form 8-K filed July 30, 2014 (Commission file No. 000-22182) (Confidential treatment has been requested with respect to portions of this agreement)

   
10.10

Letter agreement dated October 10, 2014 between Phoenix Digital Solutions, LLC and Dominion Harbor Group, LLC (Commission file No. 000-22182) (Confidential treatment has been requested with respect to portions of this agreement)

   

10.11

 

Form of Incentive Stock Option Agreement to the Company’s 2006 Stock Option Plan incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.10 on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2009, filed August 14, 2009 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   

10.12

 

Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement to the Company’s 2006 Stock Option Plan incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.11 on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2009, filed August 14, 2009 (Commission file No. 000-22182)

   

 

36
 

 

31.1*

Certification of Clifford L. Flowers, Interim CEO, pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
   

31.2*

Certification of Clifford L. Flowers, CFO, pursuant Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
   

32.1*

Certification of Clifford L. Flowers, CFO and Interim CEO, pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 Title 18 of the United States Code

   
101.INS** XBRL Instance Document
   
101.SCH** XBRL Schema Document
   
101.CAL** XBRL Calculation Linkbase Document
   
101.DEF** XBRL Definition Linkbase Document
   
101.LAB** XBRL Label Linkbase Document
   
101.PRE** XBRL Presentation Linkbase Document
   
** Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, these interactive data files are not deemed filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Section 11 or 12 of the Securities Act or Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act and otherwise not subject to liability

 

37
 

 

SIGNATURES

 

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

 

  PATRIOT SCIENTIFIC CORPORATION
   
   
DATED: April 14, 2015

/S/ CLIFFORD L. FLOWERS

Clifford L. Flowers

Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer

(Duly Authorized and Principal Financial Officer)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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