MULLEN AUTOMOTIVE INC. - Quarter Report: 2017 March (Form 10-Q)

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2017

OR

For the transition period from __________ to __________

Commission file number: 001-34887

Net Element, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

(305) 507-8808

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Not applicable

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

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

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

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

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨

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

The number of outstanding shares of common stock, $.0001 par value, of the registrant as of May 15, 2017 was 17,629,817.

Defined Terms

Net Element, Inc. is a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Delaware. As used in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (this “Report”), unless the context otherwise requires, the terms “Company,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to Net Element, Inc. and, as applicable, its majority-owned and consolidated subsidiaries. References in this Report to “PayOnline” refer, collectively, to PayOnline System LLC, Innovative Payment Technologies LLC, Polimore Capital Limited and Brosword Holding.

Forward-Looking Statements

This Report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Any statements contained in this Report that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “expects,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “aims,” “plans,” “may,” “will,” “continue,” “seeks,” “should,” “believe,” “potential” or the negative of such terms and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on current plans, estimates and projections, and therefore you should not place too much reliance on them. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement in light of new information or future events, except as expressly required by law. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and are generally beyond the Company’s control. The Company cautions you that a number of important factors could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, the forward-looking statements. These factors include, among other factors:

If these or other risks and uncertainties (including those described in Part I, Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016 and in Part II, Item 1A of this Report and the Company’s subsequent filings with the Commission) materialize, or if the assumptions underlying any of these statements prove incorrect, the Company’s actual results may be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly revise any forward-looking statement to reflect circumstances or events after the date of this Report to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. You should, however, review the factors and risks described in the reports we file from time-to-time with the Commission after the date of this Report.

World Wide Web addresses contained in this Report are for explanatory purposes only and they (and the content contained therein) do not form a part of and are not incorporated by reference into this Report.

Net Element, Inc.

Form 10-Q

For the Three Months March 31, 2017

Table of Contents

PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION

NET ELEMENT, INC.

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

NET ELEMENT, INC.

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

NET ELEMENT, INC.

UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

NET ELEMENT, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Organization

Net Element, Inc. (“we”, “us”, “our” or the “Company”) is a financial technology-driven group specializing in mobile payments and other transactional services in emerging countries and in the United States. We have three reportable segments: (i) North American Transaction Solutions for electronic commerce, (ii) Mobile Solutions which primarily serves the Russian Federation and Commonwealth of Independent States (“CIS”) and (iii) Online Solutions. We are differentiated by our proprietary technology which enables us to provide a broad suite of payment products, end-to-end transaction processing services and superior client support. We are able to deliver these services across multiple points of access, or “multi-channel,” including brick and mortar locations, software integration, e-commerce, mobile operator billing, mobile and tablet-based solutions. In the United States, via our U.S. based subsidiaries, we generate revenues from transactional services and other payment technologies for small and medium-sized businesses. Through TOT Group Russia and Net Element Russia, we provide transactional services, mobile payment transactions, online payment transactions and other payment technologies in emerging countries in the Russian Federation, CIS, Europe and Asia.

Business

Our transactional services business enables merchants to accept credit cards as well as other forms of payment, including debit cards, checks, gift cards, loyalty programs and alternative payment methods in traditional card-present or swipe transactions, as well as card-not-present transactions, such as those conducted over the phone or through the Internet or a mobile device. We market and sell our services through both independent sales groups (“ISGs”), which are non-employee, external sales organizations and other third-party resellers of our products and services, and directly to merchants through electronic media, telemarketing and other programs, including utilizing partnerships with other companies that market products and services to local and international merchants. We have agreements with several banks that sponsor us for membership in the Visa^®, MasterCard^®, American Express^® and Discover^® card associations and settle card transactions for our merchants. The principal Sponsoring Bank through which we processed the majority of our transaction in the United States during 2016 was BMO Harris Bank, N.A. On November 1, 2016, we moved all of our processing from BMO Harris Bank, N.A. to Merrick Bank, N.A. In addition, in February 2016, we entered into a bank identification (“BIN”) sponsorship agreement with Esquire Bank, N.A. As a result of our settlement with First Data, in 2016, we entered into a sponsoring agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. From time to time, we may enter into agreements with additional banks. We perform core functions for merchants such as application processing, underwriting, account set-up, risk management, fraud detection, merchant assistance and support, equipment deployment and chargeback services.

Our Mobile Solutions business, Digital Provider, LLC (“Digital Provider”) provides direct carrier billing payment solutions. Our relationships with mobile operators give us substantial geographic coverage, a strong capacity for innovation in mobile payments and messaging, and the ability to offer our clients in-app, premium SMS, WAP click, one click and other carrier billing services. We also market our own branded content as a separate line of business for our mobile commerce business from offices in Russia and Kazakhstan.

PayOnline provides flexible high-tech payment solutions to companies doing business on the Internet or in the mobile environment. PayOnline specializes in integration and customization of payment solutions for websites and mobile apps. In particular, PayOnline arranges payment on the website of any commercial organization, which increases the convenience of using the website and helps maximize the number of successful transactions. In addition, PayOnline is focused on providing online and mobile payment acceptance services to the travel industry through direct integration with leading Global Distribution Systems, which includes Amadeus® and Sabre®. Key regions of PayOnline are the CIS, Eastern Europe, Central Asia, Western Europe, North American and Asia major sub regions. PayOnline offices are located in Russia, Kazakhstan and in the Republic of Cyprus.

Aptito is a proprietary, next-generation, cloud-based payments platform for the hospitality industry, which creates an online consumer experience in offline commerce environments via tablet, mobile and all other cloud-connected devices. Aptito’s easy to use point-of-sale (“POS”) system makes things easier by providing comprehensive solution to the hospitality industry to help streamline management and operations. Orders placed tableside by customers directly speed up the ordering process and improve overall efficiency. Aptito's mobile POS system provides portability to the staff while performing all the same functions as a traditional POS system, and more. 

Company Overview

Net Element is a global financial technology and value-added solutions group that supports companies in accepting electronic payments in an omni-channel environment that spans across point-of-sale (“POS”), e-commerce and mobile devices. The Company operates in three segments as a provider of North America Transaction Solutions, Mobile Payment Solutions and Online Payment Solutions.

We enable merchants of all sizes to accept and process over 100 different payment options in more than 40 currencies, including credit, debit and prepaid payments. We also provide merchants with value-added services and technologies including integrated payment technologies, POS solutions, security solutions, fraud management, information solutions and analytical tools.

We provide a range of solutions to our clients across the value chain of commerce-enabling services and technologies. We create our value-added solutions from a suite of proprietary technology products which includes cloud-based applications, processing services, security offerings, and customer support programs that we configure to meet our clients’ individual needs.

We provide additional services including:

We have operations and offices located within the United States (“U.S.”) (domestic) and outside of the U.S. (international) where sales, customer service and/or administrative personnel are based. Through U.S. based subsidiaries, we generate revenues from transactional services, valued-added payment services and technologies for SMBs. Through wholly owned subsidiaries, we operate internationally with a focus on transactional services, mobile payment transactions, online payment transactions, value-added payment services and technologies in selected international markets.

Our business is characterized by transaction related fees, multi-year contracts, and a diverse client base which allows us to grow alongside our clients. Our multi-year contracts allow us to achieve a high level of recurring revenues. While the contracts typically do not specify fixed revenues to be realized thereunder, they do provide a framework for revenues to be generated based on volume of services provided during the contract’s term.

Basis of Presentation 

Use of Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities as of the balance sheet date and the reported amounts of expenses for the period presented. Actual results could differ from those estimates. 

Significant estimates include (i) the valuation of acquired merchant portfolios, (ii) collectability of accounts receivable, (iii) the recoverability of indeterminate-lived assets, (iv) the remaining useful lives of long-lived assets, and (v) the sufficiency of merchant, aggregator, legal, and other reserves. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate the sufficiency and accuracy of our estimates. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Reclassifications

Certain reclassifications have been made to the comparative period amounts to conform to our current period presentation. These reclassifications had no impact on previously presented financial condition or results of operations.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

We maintain our U.S. dollar-denominated cash in several non-interest bearing bank deposit accounts. All U.S. non-interest bearing transaction accounts are insured up to a maximum of $250,000, at all FDIC insured institutions. The bank balances did not exceed FDIC limits at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

We had $614,312 and $498,308 in un-insured bank accounts in Russian and the Cayman Islands at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively.

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Accounts receivable are stated net of allowance for doubtful accounts. We estimate an allowance based on experience with our service providers and judgment as to the likelihood of their ultimate payment. We also consider collection experience and make estimates regarding collectability based on payout trends of the customers. In Russia, the service providers are subsidiaries of large telecommunication companies and we do not reserve for these receivables given their financial backing and our historical experience with such companies. Total allowance for doubtful accounts was $603,031 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

Other Current Assets

We maintain an inventory of POS terminals which we use to service both merchants and independent sales agents. If the terminals are sold for a fee, we expense the cost of these terminals, plus any setup fees at the time of the sale. Often, we will provide the terminals as an incentive for merchants and independent sales agents to enter into a merchant contracts with us. The term of these contracts have an average length of three years and the cost of the terminal plus any setup fees will be amortized over the contract period. If the merchants early terminate their contract with us, they are obligated to either return the terminal or pay for the terminal. The Company had $376,743 and $311,206 in terminals, iPads ® and related equipment as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, of which $367,754 and $308,582 has been placed with merchants as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. Amortization of these terminals amounted to $51,542 and $36,646 for the periods ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2016, respectively.

Fixed Assets

We depreciate our furniture and equipment over a term of three to ten years. Computers and software are depreciated over terms between two and five years. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the economic life or term of each lease. All of our assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis for financial statement purposes.

Expenditures for repairs and maintenance are charged to operating expense as incurred. Expenditures that increase the value or productive capacity of assets are capitalized. At the time of retirements, sales, or other dispositions of property and equipment, the original cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the respective accounts, and the gains or losses are presented as other expenses.

Intangible Assets

Included in our intangible assets are merchant portfolios which represent the net carrying value of an acquired merchant customer base. Merchant portfolios are amortized on a straight-line basis over their respective contract terms, generally three to five years. Merchant portfolios are assessed for impairment if events or circumstances indicate that their respective carrying values are not recoverable from the future anticipated undiscounted net cash flows attributable to such assets. In such cases, the amount of any potential impairment would be measured as the excess, if any, of carrying value over the fair value of such assets.

We capitalize direct expenses associated with filing of patents and patent applications and amortize the capitalized intellectual property costs over five years beginning when the patent is approved.

Additionally, we capitalize the fair value of intangible assets acquired in business combinations. We perform valuations of assets acquired and liabilities assumed on each acquisition accounted for as a business combination and allocates the purchase price of each acquired business to its respective net tangible and intangible assets. Acquired intangible assets include: merchant portfolios, trade names, non-compete agreements, customer relationships and technology.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

We review our long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes indicate that the carrying amount of an asset or group of assets may not be recoverable. During the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, we did not recognize any charges for impairment of goodwill or intangible assets.

Capitalized Customer Acquisition Costs, Net

Capitalized customer acquisition costs consist of up-front cash payments made to Independent Sales Groups (“ISGs”) for the establishment of new merchant relationships. Capitalized customer acquisition costs represent incremental, direct customer acquisition costs that are recoverable through gross margins associated with merchant contracts. The up-front cash payment to the ISG is based on the estimated gross margin for the first year of the merchant contract. The deferred customer acquisition cost asset is recorded at the time of payment and the capitalized acquisition costs are primarily amortized on a straight-line basis over a period of three years.

Management evaluates the capitalized customer acquisition cost for impairment at each balance sheet date by comparing, on a pooled basis by vintage month of origination, the expected future net undiscounted cash flows from underlying merchant relationships to the carrying amount of capitalized customer acquisition costs. If the estimated future net cash flows are lower than the recorded carrying amount, indicating an impairment of the carrying value of the capitalized customer acquisition costs, the impairment loss is charged to operations.

During the periods ended March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, we recorded $403,585 and $1,319,820, respectively, in additional capitalized customer acquisition costs, and $221,195 and $670,543, respectively, in related additional amortization. The balance of customer acquisition costs was $1,879,727 and $1,697,337 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, and is reflected in intangible assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. 

Accrued Residual Commissions

We report commission payments as a cost of revenues in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive loss. We pay agent commissions to ISGs and independent sales agents based on the processing volume of the merchants enrolled. The commission payments are based on varying percentages of the volume processed by us on behalf of the merchants. Percentages vary based on the program type and transaction volume of each merchant. We report commission payments as a cost of revenues in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive loss.

At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the residual commissions payable to ISGs and independent sales agents were $745,648 and $1,347,352, respectively.

We pay agent commission on annual fees between January and April of each year. We amortize the annual fees paid in equal monthly amounts from date of payment to end of year. We pay our agent commissions for annual fees in advance of recognizing the associated revenue. We deferred $581,183 and $863,604 of agent commissions paid for annual fees at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. Prepaid agent commissions for annual fees are included in prepaid expenses and other assets, and commissions payable are included in accounts payable in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Fair Value Measurements

Our financial instruments consist primarily of cash, accounts receivable, merchant portfolios, notes receivable, trade payables and debt instruments. The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and trade payables are considered to be representative of their respective fair values due to the short-term nature of these instruments. The carrying amount of the long-term debt of $4.6 million at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 approximates fair value because current borrowing rate does not materially differ from market rates for similar bank borrowings. The long-term debt is classified as a Level 2 item within the fair value hierarchy.

We measure certain nonfinancial assets and liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. We use a three-level fair value hierarchy to prioritize the inputs used to measure fair value and maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs. The three levels of inputs used to measure fair value are as follows:

Level 1 — Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reporting date

Level 2 — Observable market based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data

Level 3 — Unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data

These non-financial assets and liabilities include intangible assets and liabilities acquired in a business combination as well as impairment calculations, when necessary. The fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in connection with the PayOnline acquisition were measured at fair value by us at the acquisition date. The fair values of our merchant portfolios are primarily based on Level 3 inputs and are generally estimated based upon independent appraisals that include discounted cash flow analyses based on our most recent cash flow projections, and, for years beyond the projection period, estimates based on assumed growth rates. Assumptions are also made regarding appropriate discount rates, perpetual growth rates, and capital expenditures, among others. In certain circumstances, the discounted cash flow analyses are corroborated by a market-based approach that utilizes comparable company public trading values, and, where available, values observed in private market transactions. The inputs used by management for the fair value measurements include significant unobservable inputs, and therefore, the fair value measurements employed are classified as Level 3. The goodwill impairment was primarily based on observable inputs using company specific information and is classified as Level 3.

Foreign Currency Transactions

We are subject to exchange rate risk in our foreign operations in Russia, the functional currency of which is Russian Ruble, where we generate service fee revenues and interest income and incurs product development, engineering, website development, and general and administrative costs and expenses. The Russian engineering operations pay a majority of their operating expenses in their local currencies, exposing us to exchange rate risk. 

We do not engage in any currency hedging activities.

Revenue Recognition

We recognize revenue when the following four basic criteria have been met: (1) persuasive evidence of a sales arrangement exists, (2) performance of services or delivery of goods has occurred, (3) the sales price is fixed or determinable, and (4) collectability is reasonably assured. We consider persuasive evidence of a sales arrangement to be the receipt of a billable transaction from aggregators, merchants or a signed contract. Collectability is assessed based on a number of factors, including transaction history with the customer and the credit worthiness of the customer. If it is determined that the collection is not reasonably assured, revenue is not recognized until collection becomes reasonably assured, which is generally upon receipt of cash. We record cash received in advance of revenue recognition as deferred revenue.

Our revenues for the three-months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 are principally derived from the following sources:

Transactional Processing Fees: Transactional processing fees are generated primarily from TOT Payments (doing business as Unified Payments), which is our U.S. transaction processing company, PayOnline, which is our Russian online transaction processing company and Aptito, our POS solution for restaurants.

Our transactional processing companies derive revenues primarily from the electronic processing of services including: credit, debit, electronic benefits transfer and alternative payment methods card processing authorized and captured through proprietary and third-party networks, electronic gift certificate processing, and equipment sales. These revenues are recorded as bankcard and other processing transactions when processed. In addition to generating service fees, Aptito earns monthly license fees for use of its platform.

Typically, fees charged to merchants for these processing services are based on a variable percentage of the dollar amount of each transaction and in some instances, additional fees are charged for each transaction. Merchant customers also may be charged miscellaneous fees, including statement fees, annual fees, monthly minimum fees, fees for handling chargebacks, gateway fees, and fees for other miscellaneous services.

Generally, we (i) are the primary obligor in our arrangements with our merchant customers, (ii) have latitude in establishing the price of our services, (iii) have the ability to change the product and perform parts of the services, (iv) have discretion in supplier selection, (v) have latitude in determining the product and service specifications to meet the needs of our merchant customers, and (vi) assume credit risk. In such cases, we report revenues as gross of fees deducted by our sponsoring member banks, as well as fees deducted from card-issuing member banks and card associations (Visa® and MasterCard®) on behalf of our sponsoring member banks for interchange and assessments. These fees charged by the card associations to process the credit card transactions are recorded separately as cost of revenue and interchange fees in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive loss.

We have multiple element arrangements that include bundled transactions with merchants encompassing annual PCI (payment card industry) fees, annual membership fees, and monthly processing fees.

We adopted Accounting Standard Update No 2009-13, “Multiple–Deliverable Revenue Arrangements” (ASU 2009-13). ASU 2009-13 requires the use of the relative selling price method of allocating total consideration to units of accounting in a multiple element arrangement and eliminates the residual method. This accounting principle requires an entity to allocate revenue in an arrangement using estimated selling price deliverables if it does not have vendor specific objective evidence (VSOE) or third party evidence (TPE) of selling price.

VSOE is the price charged when the same or similar product or service is sold separately. We define VSOE as a median price of recent stand-alone transactions that are priced within a narrow range. TPE is determined based on the prices charged by our competitors for a similar deliverable when sold separately.

We evaluate each deliverable in its arrangements to determine whether it represents a separate unit of accounting. A deliverable constitutes a separate unit of accounting when it has stand-alone value to our customers. Our products (i.e., terminals) and services qualify as separate units of accounting under ASU 2009-13.

Our payment processing division derives revenues primarily from the electronic processing of services including credit, debit and electronic benefits transfer card processing authorized and captured through third party networks, check conversion and guarantee, electronic gift certificate processing, and equipment leasing and sales. These revenues are recorded as bankcard and other processing transactions when processed.

Typically, fees charged to merchants for these processing services are based on a variable percentage of the dollar amount of each transaction and in some instances, additional fees are charged for each transaction. Merchant customers may also be charged miscellaneous fees, including statement fees, annual fees, monthly minimum fees, fees for handling chargebacks, gateway fees, and fees for other miscellaneous services.

The fair value for annual fees is based on the annual contract renewal price and is deemed to represent stand-alone selling price based upon VSOE. The fair value for processing is based on prices charged by our competitors for similar deliverables when sold separately and is deemed to represent stand-alone selling price based upon TPE.

Deferred revenue represents primarily amounts received in advance for annual fee billings and are recognized on a pro rata basis over the service period.

Service Fees:  Service fees are generated primarily from mobile payment processing services provided to third party content aggregators by Digital Provider. During July of 2015, Digital Provider began to offer its branded content to customers. Digital Provider’s revenues for the access of branded content are recorded at the amounts charged to the mobile subscriber. A corresponding charge to cost of sales for mobile operator and content fees is recorded for branded content. Revenues for access to branded content are recorded on the income statement as branded content revenues.

Mobile payment processing revenues for third-party content providers are accounted for as service fees and presented net of aggregator and mobile operator payments on the condensed consolidated financial statements as these revenues are considered to be agency fees.

Cost of revenues for Digital Provider is comprised primarily of mobile operator fees, content provider fees and fees for short numbers paid to mobile operators. Additionally, penalties and penalty recoveries are recorded as cost of sales. Service revenues for mobile payment processing services are presented net as these revenues are considered to be agency fees.

Subscription revenues for our branded content are recognized when a content subscriber initiates the purchase of access to content using WAP-click, Internet-click, or a SMS-to-short number registered to us.

Digital Provider’s subscription revenues are recorded at the amounts charged to the third party customer. Cost of revenues for Digital Provider branded content includes fees due to mobile operators and marketing partners, as well as short number fees.

Cost of revenues for TOT Payments, Aptito and PayOnline is comprised primarily of processing fees paid to third parties attributable to providing transaction processing and service fees for POS system usage by our merchant customers. Interchange fees and cost of services are recognized as incurred, which generally occurs in the same period in which the corresponding revenue is recognized. Interchange fees are set by the card networks, and are paid to the card-issuing bank. Interchange fees are calculated as a percentage of the dollar volume processed plus a per transaction fee. We also pay Visa® and MasterCard® network dues.

Net Loss per Share

Basic net loss per common share is computed by dividing net loss applicable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net loss per common share is determined using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period, adjusted for the dilutive effect of common stock equivalents, consisting of shares issuable upon exercise of common stock options or warrants. In periods when losses are reported, the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding excludes common stock equivalents because their inclusion would have an anti-dilutive effect. At both March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, we had warrants outstanding to purchase 893,890 shares of common stock, and we had 2,381,741 and 1,936,099 stock options issued and outstanding that are anti-dilutive in effect.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

The Company reviews its long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes indicate that the carrying amount of an asset or group of assets may not be recoverable. During the quarter ended March 31, 2017 and the year ended December 31, 2016, there was no impairment of goodwill and intangible assets.

Income Taxes

We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the condensed consolidated financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined on the basis of the differences between the financial statements and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

We recognize net deferred tax assets to the extent that our management believes these assets are more likely than not to be realized. In making such a determination, management considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies, and results of recent operations. If management determines that we would be able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, an adjustment would be made to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance, which would reduce the provision for income taxes. In addition, see "Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements" below regarding our adoption of guidance related to deferred taxes in the first quarter of 2017.

We account for uncertainty in income taxes using a two-step approach to recognizing and measuring uncertain tax positions. The first step is to evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% likely of being realized upon settlement. We recognize a liability for unrecognized tax benefits as current to the extent that we anticipate payment (or receipt) of cash within one year. Interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions are recognized and recorded as necessary in the provision for income taxes. Our evaluation of uncertain tax positions was performed for the tax years ended December 31, 2012 and forward, the tax years which remain subject to examination at March 31, 2017. Please see Note 15 for discussion of our uncertain tax positions.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in Topic 605, “Revenue Recognition” and requires entities to recognize revenue in a way that depicts the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, which defers by one year the effective date of ASU 2014-09. Accordingly, this guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017 with early adoption permitted for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. We are evaluating the effects that the adoption of ASU 2014-9 will have on our condensed consolidated financial statements, and do not expect a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-17, “Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes,” which requires entities to present deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as noncurrent in a classified balance sheet. As a result, each jurisdiction will now only have one net noncurrent deferred tax asset or liability. We adopted this ASU in the first quarter of 2017, which had no impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases” which, for operating leases, requires a lessee to recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability, initially measured at the present value of the lease payments, in its balance sheet. The standard also requires a lessee to recognize a single lease cost, calculated so that the cost of the lease is allocated over the lease term, on a generally straight-line basis. The ASU is effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the effects that the adoption of ASU 2016-02 will have on our consolidated financial statements, and expect an increase in assets and liabilities on our balance sheet associated with the recognition of right-of-use office leases.

In March 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2016-08 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) to clarify implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations (for reporting revenue on a gross or net basis). The ASU is an amendment to Topic 606, clarifies the implementation guidance, and requires an entity to account for revenue as an agent when another entity controls the specified good or service before that good or service is transferred to the customer. This ASU is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. We currently are preparing analyses, across all business lines and customers, to determine the effect of the new revenue recognition standard.  While our study is not yet complete, we believe that a portion of our revenue recognized for branded content in our Mobile Solutions business segment may no longer meet the conditions for gross reporting upon adoption of this ASU in 2018.

NOTE 2. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and reflect all adjustments, which are of a normal and recurring nature, that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of our condensed consolidated financial position and results of operations for the related periods. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. The consolidated results of operations for any interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the full year.

On May 25, 2016, we effected a one-for-ten reverse stock split of our common stock. These condensed consolidated financial statements give retrospective effect for this change in capital structure for all periods presented.

Following the consolidation principles promulgated by U.S. GAAP, these condensed consolidated financial statements include the assets, liabilities, results of operations, and cash flows of the following subsidiaries:

(1) TOT Group, Inc., a 100% owned subsidiary formed in Delaware; (2) Netlab Systems, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary formed in Florida; (3) NetLab Systems IP, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary formed in Florida; (4) OOO Net Element Russia (“Net Element Russia”), a wholly owned subsidiary formed in Russia; and (5) Net Element Services, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary formed in Florida.

The subsidiaries listed above are the parent companies of several other subsidiaries, which hold the Company’s underlying investments or operating entities.

TOT Group is the parent company of TOT Payments, LLC (“TOT Payments”) doing business as Unified Payments a wholly owned subsidiary formed in Florida, Aptito, LLC, a 80% owned subsidiary formed in Florida (acquired June 18, 2013), TOT Group Europe LTD, a wholly owned subsidiary formed in the United Kingdom, Unified Portfolios, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary formed in Florida and OOO TOT Group Russia, a wholly owned subsidiary formed in Russia.

All material intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

NOTE 3. LIQUIDITY AND GOING CONCERN CONSIDERATIONS

Our condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the settlement of liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business. For the quarter ended March 31, 2017, we sustained a net loss of $2.5 million and have an accumulated deficit of $160 million and $6.4 million of negative working capital at March 31, 2017. We sustained a net loss of $13.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 and have an accumulated deficit of $157 million and a negative working capital of $6.3 million at December 31, 2016. In addition, we have a payment obligation of approximately $1.8 million due on May 20, 2017 associated with our PayOnline acquisition (see Note 17. Subsequent Events). The conditions above plus the risk of our ability to secure sufficient financing in order to pay such obligations raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.

Failure to successfully continue developing our payment processing operations and maintain contracts with merchants, mobile phone carriers and content providers to use TOT Group’s services could harm our revenues and materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.   We face all of the risks inherent in a new business, including the need for significant additional capital, management’s potential underestimation of initial and ongoing costs, and potential delays and other problems in connection with developing our technologies and operations.

We are continuing with our plan to further grow and expand our payment processing operations in the United States and emerging markets and seek sources of capital to expand and pay our contractual obligations as they come due. Management believes that its current operating strategy will provide the opportunity for us to continue as a going concern as long as we are able to obtain additional financing; however, there is no assurance this will occur. The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might be necessary if the Company is unable to continue as a going concern.

We are required to continually meet the listing requirements of The NASDAQ Capital Market (including a minimum bid price for our common stock of $1.00 per share) to maintain the listing of our common stock on The NASDAQ Capital Market. On November 14, 2016, the bid price of our common stock fell below $1.00 and stayed below $1.00 for 30 consecutive business days. On December 28, 2016, we received a letter from NASDAQ providing us 180 days (until June 26, 2017) to regain compliance. To regain compliance, our stock closing bid price must remain above $1.00 for 10 consecutive trading days. If we do not regain compliance with the minimum closing bid price requirement, the NASDAQ Capital Market will provide written notice that our securities are subject to delisting. At such time, we would be entitled to appeal the delisting determination to a NASDAQ Listing Qualifications Panel. We cannot provide any assurance that our stock price will recover within the permitted grace period.

Any delisting of our common stock from The NASDAQ Capital Market could adversely affect our ability to attract new investors, reduce the liquidity of our outstanding shares of common stock, reduce our flexibility to raise additional capital, reduce the price at which our common stock trades and increase the transaction costs inherent in trading such shares with overall negative effects for our stockholders. In addition, delisting of our common stock could deter broker-dealers from making a market in or otherwise seeking or generating interest in our common stock, and might deter certain institutions and persons from investing in our securities at all. For these reasons and others, delisting could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

The independent auditors’ report on our consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 contain an emphasis paragraph expressing substantial doubt as to our ability to continue as a going concern.

NOTE 4. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

Accounts receivable (net) consist of amounts due from processors and Russian mobile operator intermediaries. Total net accounts receivable amounted to $6,724,985 and $7,126,429 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. Net accounts receivable consisted primarily of $2,835,618 and $2,391,646 of amounts due from Russian mobile operators, $226,123 and $185,650 due to PayOnline business and $3,663,244 and $4,549,133 of credit card processing receivables at each of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively.

Our allowance for doubtful accounts was $603,031 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. For the year ended December 31, 2016, we recorded a provision of $500,000 for potentially uncollectible accounts receivable in our mobile payments business.

NOTE 5. FIXED ASSETS

Fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization as follows:

Depreciation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2016 was $33,203 and $7,560, respectively.

NOTE 6.  INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Shown below are the details of intangible assets at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016:

Depreciation and amortization expense for the period ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2016 was $657,363 and $888,118, respectively. During the three months ended March 31, 2017, we incurred $572,618 of amortization as described in the table above. Additionally, we incurred $51,542 for the amortization of terminal inventory placed with merchant customers. The remaining $33,203, not included in table above, was for fixed assets (See Note 5. Fixed Assets). During the three months ended March 31, 2016, we amortized $846,737 for intangible assets and $33,821 for the amortization of terminal inventory placed with merchant customers. Additionally, we recorded $7,560 in depreciation for fixed assets (See Note 5. Fixed Assets).

The following table presents the estimated aggregate future amortization expense of other intangible assets:

Software

At times, capitalized software development costs that add value to or extend the useful of the related software it develops for internal use and licensing. Costs for routine software updates are expensed as incurred. Capitalized costs are amortized over 36 months on a straight-line basis. Impairment is reviewed quarterly to ensure only viable active costs are capitalized.

During the three months and twelve months ended March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, we capitalized $45,591 and $102,689 of development costs as follows:

For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, amortization was $60,739 and $353,304, respectively.

Merchant Portfolios

Merchant Portfolios consist of portfolios purchased by us that earn future streams of income. The remaining contract terms of these portfolios range from 15 to 36 months at the time of acquisition. The useful lives of merchant portfolios represent management’s best estimate over which we expect to recognize the economic benefits of these intangible assets. At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the net value of these portfolios were $626,557 and $784,991, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 amortization was $158,434 and $176,046, respectively.

Trademarks and Domain Names

At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the net book values of trademarks were $269,192 and $327,708, respectively, and the net book value of the domain names were $157,642 and $193,959, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2017, amortization for trademarks was $58,516. For the three months ended March 31, 2016, amortization was $41,667. For the three months ended March 31, 2017, amortization for domain names was $36,317. For the three months ended March 31, 2016, amortization was $24,999.

PCI Certification

During 2015, we acquired a “Payment Card Industry” (PCI) Certification with our acquisition of PayOnline. This certification had a fair market value of $449,000 at the date of acquisition. At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the net book value of this certification was $168,373 and $205,790, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, amortization for this certification was $37,417 and $37,417, respectively.

Non-Compete Agreements

In connection with the Company’s acquisition of Unified Payments, LLC in 2013, two key executives signed covenants not to compete. These covenants have a three-year life and had a net book value of $0 and $11,667 at March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, amortization was $0 and $70,000, respectively. Non-Compete agreements were fully amortized at December 31, 2016.

NOTE 7. ACCRUED EXPENSES

At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, accrued expenses amounted to $5,366,887 and $5,518,823, respectively. Accrued expenses represent expenses that are owed at the end of the period and have not been billed by the provider or are estimates of services provided. The following table details the items comprising the balances outstanding at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

The accrual for PayOnline at March 31, 2017 consists of a $0.3 million earn-out accrual and a $1.8 million stock price guarantee obligation pursuant to a settlement agreement entered into in connection with the PayOnline acquisition. Additionally, the accrual includes a $1.4 million obligation for refundable merchant reserves assumed pursuant to an amendment to the PayOnline acquisition agreement. See Note 11 for additional information.

The accrual for PayOnline at December 31, 2016 consists of a $0.3 million earn-out accrual and a $2.0 million stock price guarantee obligation pursuant to a settlement agreement entered into in connection with the PayOnline acquisition. Additionally, the accrual includes a $1.4 million obligation for refundable merchant reserves assumed pursuant to an amendment to the PayOnline acquisition agreement.

Accrued bonuses are attributed to our TOT Group subsidiaries resulting from a discretionary bonus accrual for $1,130,511 and $774,485 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively.

NOTE 8. SHORT TERM DEBT

At March 31, 2017, short term debt consists of $719,564 and $808,976 in principal repayments due to RBL during the third and fourth quarter of 2017, respectively.

NOTE 9. LONG TERM DEBT

Long term debt consists of the following:

RBL Capital Group, LLC

Effective June 30, 2014, TOT Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries as co-borrowers, TOT Payments, LLC, TOT BPS, LLC, TOT FBS, LLC, Process Pink, LLC, TOT HPS, LLC and TOT New Edge, LLC, entered into a Loan and Security Agreement with RBL Capital Group, LLC (“RBL”), as lender (the “RBL Loan Agreement”). Pursuant to the original terms of the RBL Loan Agreement, we could borrow up to $10,000,000 from RBL during the 18 month period from the closing of this credit facility. Prior to maturity of the loan, the principal amount of the borrowings under the credit facility will carry a fixed interest rate of the higher of 13.90% per annum or the prime rate plus 10.65%. After maturity of the loan, until all borrowings are paid in full, with respect to the advances under the credit facility, an additional three percent per annum would be added to such interest rate, and for any other amounts, obligations or payments due to RBL, an annual default rate not to exceed the lesser of (i) the prime rate plus 13% per annum and (ii) 18.635% per annum. As further described below, borrowings from the line of credit in the amounts of $3,315,000, $400,000 and $250,000 were converted into term loans. On May 2, 2016, we renewed our credit facility with RBL, increasing the facility from, respectively, $10 million to $15 million and extended the term through February 2018. At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, we had $10,855,944 and $10,955,944 available on our RBL credit line.

The co-borrowers’ obligations to RBL pursuant to the RBL Loan Agreement are secured by a first priority security interest in all of the co-borrowers’ tangible and intangible assets, including but not limited to their merchants, merchant contracts and proceeds thereof, and all right title and interest in co-borrowers’ processing contracts, contract rights, and portfolio cash flows with all processors of the co-borrowers.

On July 17, 2014, we entered into a $3,315,000 term note with RBL. Net proceeds from the term note were used to repay a $3.0 million note previously due to MBF in addition to approximately $239,000 for working capital. The term note required interest only payments at 13.90% interest through January 2015 commencing on August 20, 2014 followed by monthly interest and principal payments of $90,421 through January 2019. The promissory note balance reduced the amount available under our RBL credit line. The note also provided for a 2% front end fee due at execution of the note and a 4% backend fee due at the final payment of the note. During 2016, Crede CG III, Ltd. (“Crede”) purchased $1,849,481 of the principal balance of this promissory note in various tranches. We exchanged and extinguished these promissory note tranches for 164,262 shares of common stock during the second quarter of 2016, 992,032 shares of our common stock during the third quarter of 2016, and 196,080 shares during the fourth quarter of 2016. See “—Crede CG III, Ltd.” At December 20, 2016, the remaining balance of the note was refinanced into another note and its balance was $0 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

Effective February 10, 2015, we entered into a $400,000 term note with RBL based on a draw down from the line of credit. The term note provided for interest-only payments at 13.90% interest through July 20, 2015. From August 20, 2015 through July 20, 2019 (maturity date), we were obligated to make interest and principal payments of $10,911 per month. We paid $8,000 in costs related to this loan. This term note was purchased by Crede, which was exchanged and extinguished for an aggregate of 219,284 shares of our common stock on June 9, 2016, June 23, 2016, and June 30, 2016. The balance of this note was $0 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

Effective March 27, 2015, we entered into a $250,000 term note with RBL based on the draw down from the line of credit. The term note provided for interest-only payments at 13.90% interest through July 20, 2015. From August 20, 2015 through July 20, 2019 (the note maturity date), we were obligated to make interest and principal payments of $6,819 per month. We paid $5,000 in costs related to this term note. This term note was purchased by Crede, which was exchanged and extinguished for an aggregate of 91,744 shares of our common stock on May 9, 2016. The balance of this note was $0 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

On May 4, 2016, we entered into a $250,000 term note with RBL. The term note provided for interest-only payments at 14.15% interest through October 20, 2016. From November 20, 2016 through October 20, 2020 (the note maturity date), we were obligated to make interest and principal payments of $6,850 per month. The term note also provided for a 2% front end fee, due upon the execution of the term note and a 4% back end fee due at the final payment of the term note. On December 20, 2016, this note was refinanced into another term note and its balance was $0 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

On May 20, 2016, we entered into a $400,000 term note with RBL. The term note provided for interest-only payments at 14.15% interest through November 20, 2015. From December 20, 2016 through November 20, 2020 (the note maturity date), we were obligated to make interest and principal payments of $10,961 per month. The term note also provided for a 2% front end fee, due upon the execution of the term note and a 4% back end fee due at the final payment of the term note. On December 20, 2016, this note was refinanced into another term note and its balance was $0 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

On June 23, 2016, we entered into a $190,000 term note with RBL. The term note provided for interest-only payments at 14.15% interest through December 20, 2016. From January 20, 2017 through December 20, 2020 (the note maturity date), we were obligated to make interest and principal payments of $5,206 per month. The term note also provided for a 2% front end fee, due upon the execution of the term note and a 4% backend fee due at the final payment of the term note. On December 20, 2016, this note was refinanced into another term note and its balance was $0 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

On July 15, 2016, we entered into a $350,000 term note with RBL. The term note provided for interest-only payments at 14.15% through January 20, 2017. From February 20, 2017 through January 20, 2021, we were obligated to make interest and principal payments of $9,591. The term note also provided for a 2% front end fee, due upon the execution of the loan and a 4% back end fee due at the final payment of the term note. On December 20, 2016, this note was refinanced into another term note and its balance was $0 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

On August, 15, 2016, we entered into a $400,000 term note with RBL. The term note provided for interest only payments at 14.15% through February 20, 2017. From March 20, 2017 through February 20, 2021, we were obligated to make interest and principal payments of $10,961. The term note also provided for a 2% front end fee, due upon the execution of the loan and a 4% back end fee due at the final payment of the term note. On December 20, 2016, this note was refinanced into another term note and its balance was $0 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

On September 15, 2016, we entered into a $350,000 term note with RBL. The term note provided for interest only payments at 14.15% through March 20, 2017. From April 20, 2017 through March 20, 2021, we were obligated to make interest and principal payments of $9,591. The term note also provided for a 2% front end fee, due upon the execution of the loan and a 4% back end fee due at the final payment of the term note. On December 20, 2016, this note was refinanced into another term note and its balance was $0 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

On November 7, 2016, we entered into a $350,000 term note with RBL. The term note provided for interest only payments at 14.15% through May 20, 2017. From June 20, 2017 through May 20, 2021, we were obligated to make interest and principal payments of $9,591. The term note also provided for a 2% front end fee due upon the execution of the loan and a 4% back end fee due at the final payment of the term note. On December 20, 2016, this note was refinanced into another term note and its balance was $0 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

On December 15, 2016, we entered into a $325,000 term note with RBL. The term note provided for interest only payments at 14.15% through June 20, 2017. From July 20, 2017 through June 20, 2021, we were obligated to make interest and principal payments of $8,906. The term note also provided for a 2% front end fee, due upon the execution of the loan and a 4% back end fee due at the final payment of the term note. On December 20, 2016, this note was refinanced into another term note and its balance was $0 at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

On December 20, 2016, we entered into a $4,044,055 term note with RBL. This note effectively refinanced all RBL notes described above. The term note provides for interest only payments at 14.15% through May 20, 2017 of $47,686. From June 20, 2017 through May 20, 2021, we are obligated to make interest and principal payments of $110,814. The term note also required a $20,000 front end refinancing fee upon execution of the loan and a $104,600 back end fee due at the final payment on May 20, 2021.

Effective March 30, 2017, we entered into a $100,000 term note with RBL based on a draw down from the line of credit. The term note provides for interest-only payments at 14.4% interest through May 20, 2017. From June 20, 2017 through May 20, 2021 (maturity date), we are obligated to make interest and principal payments of $2,753 per month. We paid $2,000 in costs related to this term note at its inception and another $4,000 of costs is due at the maturity of the note.

Also see subsequent events Note 17 for activity that occurred after March 31, 2017.

MBF Merchant Capital, LLC

We issued the following notes payable to MBF Merchant Capital, LLC (MBF), which is owned by William Healy, a member of our Board of Directors.

On March 28, 2016, we entered into a $75,000 promissory were note with MBF. The promissory note provided for interest only payments at 14% through May 28, 2016. From June 28, 2016 through March 28, 2017, we were obligated to make interest and principal payments of $7,990. The promissory note also provided for a 6% backend fee due at the final payment of the promissory note. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the balance of the note was $0 and $23,420, respectively.

On April 19, 2016, we entered into a $300,000 promissory note with MBF. The promissory note provides for interest only payments at 15.5% through May 28, 2016. From June 28, 2016 through May 28, 2018, we are obligated to make interest and principal payments of $14,617. The promissory note also provides for a 6% back end fee due at the final payment of the promissory note. At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the balance of the note was $186,112 and $221,826, respectively.

On July 1, 2016, our subsidiary, TOT Group, Inc., entered into a $353,500 promissory note with MBF. The promissory note provides for interest only payments at 15.5% through June 28, 2016. From July 28, 2016 through June 28, 2018, we are obligated to make interest and principal payments of $17,224. The promissory note also provides for a 1% front end fee and for a 6.6% back end fee due at the final payment of the promissory note. At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the remaining balance of the note was $233,510 and $275,056, respectively.

Crede CG III, Ltd.

On May 2, 2016, we entered into a Master Exchange Agreement with Crede (the “Master Exchange Agreement”), an entity that purchased a portion our previously issued notes held by RBL described above. Pursuit to the Master Exchange Agreement, we have the right to request that Crede exchange up to $3,965,000 of the RBL promissory notes for shares of our common stock.

On March 3, 2017, we entered into an Amendment to Master Exchange Agreement with Crede, which extended the expiration date of the Master Exchange Agreement from December 31, 2016 to August 31, 2017. Accordingly, this extends the time to which we have the right to request Crede to exchange RBL promissory notes for shares of the Company’s common stock on the terms and conditions set forth in the Master Exchange Agreement.

For the quarters ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, we did not exchange any shares of our common stock for RBL promissory notes. For the year ended December 31, 2016, we exchanged 1,663,402 shares of our common stock with Crede for an aggregate of $2,499,481 of RBL promissory notes, including the full exchange of the $400,000 promissory note (originally entered into February 10, 2015) and $250,000 promissory note (originally entered into March 27, 2015), and the partial exchange for $1,849,481 of the $3,315,000 promissory note (originally entered July 17, 2014). These notes were purchased by Crede for an average per share exchange price of $1.76. The exchanges also settled current interest and loan fees of $302,294 and a non-cash exchange premium of $487,064. Also see Note 17. Subsequent Events.

Scheduled Debt Principal Repayment

Scheduled principal maturities on indebtedness at March 31, 2017 is as follows:

NOTE 10. CONCENTRATIONS

The Company’s total revenue was $13,561,941 and $11,261,059 for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Of the $13,561,941 in revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2017, $12,729,663 (which also includes PayOnline) was derived from processing of Visa®, MasterCard®, Discover® and American Express® card transactions and $832,278 was derived from providing mobile payment services branded content the three months ended March 31, 2017.

Total revenue was $11,261,059 for the three months ended March 31, 2016, of which $9,363,82 (which also includes PayOnline) was derived from processing of Visa®, MasterCard®, Discover® and American Express® card transactions, and $1,897,239 that was derived from providing mobile payment services branded content the three months ended March 31, 2016.

The credit card processing revenues were from merchant customer transactions, which were processed primarily by two third-party processors (greater than 5%) during the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016. For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company processed 73% and 71%, respectively, of its total revenue with Priority Payment, Inc. (f/k/a Cynergy Data, LLC) and 5% and 18%, respectively, of its total revenue with Vantiv, Inc. (f/k/a National Processing Company (NPC)).

Mobile electronic payment revenues were derived from merchant customer transactions processed by mobile operators. For the three months ended March 31, 2017, no mobile operator processed transactions that generated more than 5% our revenues. For the three months ended March 31, 2016, Beeline (OJSC Vimpelcom) processed transactions that generated 7% of our revenues.

NOTE 11. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

PayOnline Acquisition Commitments

On May 20, 2015, our subsidiaries TOT Group Europe, Ltd. and TOT Group Russia LLC, entered into an agreement with Maglenta Enterprises Inc. and Champfremont Holding Ltd. (together, the “Sellers”) to acquire all of the assets and liabilities that comprise PayOnline. PayOnline’s business includes the operation of a protected payment processing system to accept bank card payments for goods and services.

Purchase consideration consisted of a combination of $3.6 million in cash, and restricted common shares with a value of $3.6 million, payable in five quarterly installments, and, if applicable, additional earn-out payments in cash and restricted common shares based on a multiple of EBITDA and subject to certain EBITDA target achievement in the applicable quarter. The PayOnline acquisition agreement set forth the determination of the value of such shares based on the closing stock price on the date before each applicable payment date. The agreement called for a guarantee, payable in cash, for decreases in the market value of the restricted common shares issued at 12 months from the date of the respective issuances. On May 19, 2016, we recognized a charge in the amount of $2,162,861 for decreases in the market value of the restricted common shares issued pursuant to the stock price guarantee.

On October 25, 2016, we entered into a settlement agreement with the Sellers relating to the stock price guarantee provision in the PayOnline acquisition agreement pursuant to which we agreed to pay the Sellers an aggregate of $2,288,667 plus 10% per annum interest accrued from May 20, 2016 in installments pursuant to the payment schedule set forth in the settlement agreement (also see Note 17). On October 25, 2016, we entered into an amendment to the PayOnline acquisition agreement with the Sellers, in which we agreed to assume $1,433,475 of certain refundable merchant deposit reserves. These reserves are expected to be refunded in 2017.

Leases

In May 2013, we entered into a lease agreement for approximately 4,716 square feet of office space located at 3363 N.E. 163rd Street, Suites 705 through 707, North Miami Beach, Florida 33160. The term of the lease agreement was from May 1, 2013 through December 31, 2016, with monthly rent increasing from $16,800 per month at inception to $19,448 per month (or $233,377 per year) for the period from January 1, 2016 through December 31, 2016.

In September 2016, this lease was extended for a period of five years commencing January 1, 2017 and expiring December 31, 2021 with monthly base rent increasing each year from $20,421 per month beginning January 1, 2017 ($245,046 per year) to $24,821 per month beginning January 1, 2021 ($297,855 per year). The extension has an early termination provision that allows us to cancel the lease with no cancellation fee if we enter into a new lease agreement with Canal Park Office, LLC. We are currently negotiating with Canal Park Office, LLC for a new, larger space. 

NetLabs Systems, LLC, through its Russian representative office, currently leases 1,654 square feet of office space in Yekaterinburg, Russia, where it conducts Value Added Services and Sales Central CRM development activities, at annual rent of approximately $24,300.  The current lease term expires in June 1, 2017.

PayOnline Systems leases approximately 5,090 square feet of office space in Moscow, Russia at an annual rent of $141,867. The current lease term for the office space expires on July 15, 2017. For the first regional office, PayOnline leases approximately 276 square feet of office space in Ekaterinburg, Russia at annual rent of $3,328. For the second regional office, PayOnline leases approximately 155 square feet of office space in Almaty, Russia at annual rent of $1,340. The leases are automatically renewable.

Net Element Russia leases approximately 2,033 square feet of office space in Moscow, Russia at annual rent of $73,960, as well as one corporate apartment at annual rent of $22,600. The current lease term for the office space expires on January 31, 2018 and we expect to renew this lease at that time. The current lease term for the corporate apartment expires on August 16, 2017. The corporate apartment lease will be terminated on May 31, 2017. There is no cost for early termination.

We believe that our facilities are suitable and adequate for our present purposes, and we anticipate that we will be able to extend our existing leases on terms satisfactory to us or acquire new facilities on acceptable terms.

Litigation

Aptito.com, Inc.

On August 6, 2014, our subsidiary (Aptito, LLC) filed a lawsuit against Aptito.com, Inc. and the shareholders of Aptito.com, Inc., in state court in the 11th Judicial Circuit in and for Miami-Dade County. This is an interpleader action in regards to 125,000 shares of stock. Aptito, LLC acquired Aptito.com, Inc. in exchange for, among other things, 125,000 shares of Net Element, Inc. stock. There has been disagreement among the Aptito.com, Inc. shareholders as to proper distribution of the 125,000 shares. To avoid any liability in regards to improper distribution, Aptito, LLC filed the interpleader action so as to allow the defendants to litigate amongst themselves as to how the shares should be distributed. Aptito.com, Inc. opposes the motion to interplead and has filed counterclaims relative to Aptito, LLC non-delivery of the 125,000 shares.  On February 10, 2017, the Court held a hearing on Aptito.com, Inc.’s motion to dismiss the complaint and Aptito, LLC and Net Element’s motion to dismiss Aptito.com, Inc.’s counterclaims.  The Court denied Aptito.com, Inc.’s motion to dismiss and granted Aptito, LLC and Net Element’s motion to dismiss the counterclaims without prejudice.  The Court also indicated that it will hold a hearing on the motion to interplead. A hearing date has yet to be scheduled. If the motion to interplead is granted, it will be up to the defendants to litigate as to the proper distribution of shares and Aptito, LLC should be discharged from any purported liability. On March 20, 2017, Aptito. com filed amended counterclaims against Aptito, LLC as well as claims against the Company alleging amongst other matters, breach of contract and violations of federal and state securities laws. These counterclaims are without merit and Aptito, LLC and the Company have filed a motion to dismiss the claims and a motion for sanctions. Counsel is trying to schedule a hearing date for determination on these matters in July 2017.

Gene Zell

In June 2014, we, as plaintiff, commenced an action in the Miami-Dade Circuit Court, Florida against Gene Zell for defamation of our Company and CEO and tortious interference with our business relationships. In October 2014, the court granted a temporary injunction against Zell enjoining him from posting any information about our Company and CEO on any website and enjoining him from contacting our business partners or investors. Zell violated the Court Order and the Court granted a Motion imposing sanctions against Zell. We continue to seek enforcement of the Court Order. On April 13, 2015, Zell filed a Motion to set aside the Court Order alleging he was unaware of the Court Proceedings. The Court, on August 26, 2015, dismissed Zell’s Motion to dissolve the injunction. In March 2017 the Court dismissed another Motion brought by Zell to dissolve the injunction. Accordingly the injunction order prohibiting Zell from making further defamatory posts remains in place. The Company intends to protect its rights by ongoing enforcement of the Injunction.

Other Legal Proceedings

We are involved in certain legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of business. In our opinion, based on consultations with outside counsel, the results of any of these ordinary course matters, individually and in the aggregate, are not expected to have a material effect on our results of operations, financial condition, or cash flows. As more information becomes available, if management should determine that an unfavorable outcome is probable on such a claim and that the amount of such probable loss that it will incur on that claim is reasonably estimable, we will record a reserve for the claim in question. If and when we record such a reserve is recorded, it could be material and could adversely impact our results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.

NOTE 12. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

In 2016, we and our subsidiary, TOT Group, Inc., entered into certain term loan notes with MBF. For additional information about such term loan notes, see “MBF Merchant Capital, LLC” in Note 9. William Healy, a member of our Board of Directors, is the sole member of MBF.

During the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, agent commissions resulting from merchant processing of $24,926 and $0, respectively, were paid to Prime Portfolios, LLC, an entity owned by Oleg Firer, our CEO, and Steven Wolberg, our Chief Legal Officer.

On March 1, 2017, we entered into a promissory note with Star Capital Management, LLC, an entity which our CEO is the managing member, in the principal amount of $348,083 (the “Note”). Pursuant to the Note, previously advanced funds with the interest accrued through the date of the Note as determined at the execution of the Note in a total of $348,083. The Note provides for 18 monthly interest payments of $3,481 through September 30, 2018 followed by one interest and principle payment on October 1, 2018. The principal balance of the Note outstanding bears interest at the rate of 12% per annum. In the event of any capital raise by us that is not in the ordinary course of business and that results in funding in excess of $5 million (a “Liquidity Event”), the maturity date will be accelerated to coincide with the closing date of such Liquidity Event. The balance of this loan at March 31, 2017 and 2016 was $348,083 and $0, respectively and is included in the $356,200 balance in Due to related parties on our balance sheet at March 31, 2017.

NOTE 13. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

On May 25, 2016, we effected a one-for-ten reverse stock split of our common stock. Our consolidated financial statements and disclosures reflect for this change in capital structure for all periods presented.

On June 12, 2015 and June 13, 2016, our shareholders approved 100,000,000 increases in our authorized common stock to 300,000,000 and 400,000,000, respectively.

Equity Incentive Plan Activity

On December 5, 2013, our shareholders approved the Net Element International, Inc. 2013 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2013 Plan”). Awards under the 2013 Plan may be granted in any one or all of the following forms: (i) incentive stock options meeting the requirements of Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended; (ii) non-qualified stock options (unless otherwise indicated, references to “Options” include both Incentive Stock Options and Non-Qualified Stock Options); (iii) stock appreciation rights, which may be awarded either in tandem with Options or on a stand-alone basis; (iv) shares of common stock that are restricted; (v) units representing shares of common stock; (vi) units that do not represent shares of common stock but which may be paid in the form of common stock; and (vii) shares of common stock that are not subject to any conditions to vesting. The maximum aggregate number of shares of common stock available for award under the 2013 Plan at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 was 207,938 and 1,280,258, respectively. The 2013 Plan is administered by the compensation committee.

On February 28, 2017, the Compensation Committee (the “Committee”) of our Board of Directors approved and authorized grants of the following equity awards to our employees and consultants of the Company pursuant to the 2013 Plan, as amended:

Awards Outside the 2013 Plan

On February 28, 2017, the Committee awarded to Oleg Firer, our Chief Executive Officer, 471,388 restricted shares of our common stock as performance bonus subject to shareholder approval.

Other Stock Issuance

Pursuant to the earn out installment provisions of the PayOnline purchase agreement, we issued an additional 130,823 shares of our common stock and paid $108,583 during March 2017. We accrued but not yet issued 20,161 shares to our independent directors for payment of services during the first quarter of 2017.

Agreement with ESOUSA Holdings

On July 6, 2016, we entered into a common stock purchase agreement (“Purchase Agreement”), with ESOUSA Holdings, LLC, a New York limited liability company (“ESOUSA”), which provides that ESOUSA is committed to purchase up to an aggregate of $10 million of our shares of common stock over the 30-month term of the Purchase Agreement. In consideration for entering into the Purchase Agreement, we paid shares of our common stock with a value equivalent $200,000 as a commitment fee to ESOUSA. The number of shares was calculated using the average of volume weighted average price for our common stock during the 3 trading day period immediately preceding the date of issuance of such shares. Accordingly, on August 31, 2016, we issued 131,171 shares of our common stock to ESOUSA based on the price of $1.5247 per share.

In connection with the ESOUSA Purchase Agreement, we issued the following shares of our common stock to ESOUSA during the three months ended March 31, 2017:

NOTE 14. WARRANTS AND NON-INCENTIVE PLAN OPTIONS

Warrants

In 2013, our predecessor entity (then known as Cazador Acquisition Corporation Ltd.) issued 8,940,000 warrants to purchase 894,000 shares of common stock in connection with its private placement and initial public offering. At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, we had warrants outstanding to purchase 893,890 shares of common stock. At March 31, 2017, the warrants have a weighted average exercise price of $75.00 per share purchased and a weighted average remaining contractual term of 0.50 years (0.75 years at December 31, 2016). These warrants are “out-of-the-money” and have no intrinsic value at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. The warrants are exercisable only if a registration statement relating to the common shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants is effective and current. These warrants expire on October 1, 2017.

Non-Incentive Plan Options

At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, we had 1,602,142 non-incentive options outstanding with an exercise price of $2.18 and a remaining contract term of 3.67 and 3.92 years, respectively. These options were out of the money at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 and had no intrinsic value.

NOTE 15. INCOME TAXES

Our net deferred tax assets primarily are comprised of net operating loss carryforwards (“NOLs”), and basis difference in goodwill and intangibles. These NOLs total approximately $52.3 million and $45.9 million for federal, and approximately $12.4 million and $10.8 million for foreign NOLs as of March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2016, respectively.

The timing and manner in which we will be able to utilize our NOLs is limited by Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (IRC). IRC Section 382 imposes limitations on a corporation’s ability to use its NOLs when it undergoes an “ownership change.” Generally, an ownership change occurs if one or more shareholders, each of whom owns 5% or more in value of a corporation’s stock, increase their percentage ownership, in the aggregate, by more than 50% over the lowest percentage of stock owned by such shareholders at any time during the preceding three-year period. Because on June 10, 2014, we underwent an ownership change as defined by IRC Section 382, the limitation applies to us. The losses generated prior to the ownership change date (pre-change losses) are subject to the Section 382 limitation. The pre-change losses may only become available to be utilized by us at the rate of $2.4 million per year. Any unused losses can be carried forward, subject to their original carry forward limitation periods. In the year 2017, approximately $2.4 million in the pre-change losses was released from the Section 382 loss limitation. We can still fully utilize the NOLs generated after the change of the ownership, which was approximately $12.5 million. Thus, we expect the total of approximately $16.6 million as of March 31, 2017 is available to offset future taxable income.

In order to fully utilize the net deferred tax assets, we will need to generate sufficient taxable income in future years to utilize its NOLs prior to their expiration. ASC Topic 740, “Income Taxes”, requires us to analyze all positive and negative evidence to determine if, based on the weight of available evidence, we are more likely than not to realize the benefit of the net deferred tax assets. The recognition of the net deferred tax assets and related tax benefits is based upon our conclusions regarding, among other considerations, estimates of future earnings based on information currently available, current and anticipated customers, contracts and product introductions, as well as historical operating results and certain tax planning strategies.

We have evaluated the available evidence and the likelihood of realizing the benefit of our net deferred tax assets. From our evaluation, we have concluded that based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that we will not realize any of the benefit of its net deferred tax assets. Accordingly, at March 31, 2017, we maintain a full valuation allowance totaling approximately $24.4 million.

NOTE 16. SEGMENT INFORMATION

Our three reportable segments include: (i) North American Transaction Solutions for electronic commerce, (ii) Mobile Solutions (primarily servicing the Russian Federation and CIS) and (iii) Online Solutions. Management determines the reportable segments based on the internal reporting used by our Chief Operating Decision Maker to evaluate performance and to assess where to allocate resources. During the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, the principal revenue stream for all segments came from services fees and branded content.

Factors management used to identify the entity’s reportable segments

The Company’s reportable segments are business units that offer different products and services in different geographies. The reportable segments are each managed separately because they offer distinct products with different delivery and service processes.

North American Transaction Solutions

Our U.S. payment processing business segment consists of the former Unified Payments business and Aptito. This segment operates primarily in North America. In March 2013, we acquired all of the business assets of Unified Payments, a provider of comprehensive turnkey, payment processing solutions to small and medium size business owners (merchants) and independent sales organizations across the United States.

In April 2013, we purchased 80% of Aptito, a cloud based Software-as-a-Service (“SaaS”) restaurant management solution, which provides integrated POS, mPOS, Kiosk, Digital Menus functionality to drive consumer engagement via Apple® iPad®-based POS, kiosk and all other cloud-connected devices.

Mobile Solutions

Our Russian mobile and online payment processing segment consists of Digital Provider, which operates primarily in the Russian Federation and CIS.

In June 2012, we formed our subsidiary, OOO TOT Money, to develop a business in mobile commerce payment processing. TOT Money launched its initial operations in Russia as a payment facilitator using SMS (short message services, which is a text messaging service) and MMS (multimedia message services) for mobile phone subscribers in Russia. During 2015, we changed or business model, rebranded our name to Digital Provider, and began to offer branded content to subscribers.

Online Solutions

On May 20, 2015, we acquired the net assets that comprise PayOnline, which includes a protected payment processing system to accept bank card payments for goods and services. PayOnline primarily operates in Russia and CIS.

The accounting policies of the individual transactions in the reportable segments are the same as those of the Company, as described in Note 1. Transactions between reportable segments are primarily conducted at market rates, resulting in segment profits or expenses that are eliminated for reporting consolidated results.

Segment Summary Information

The following tables present financial information of the Company’s reportable segments at March 31, 2017 and 2016. The “Corporate Expenses & Eliminations” column includes all corporate expenses and intercompany eliminations for consolidated purposes.

NOTE 17. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

Effective April 17, 2017, we entered into a $400,000 term note with RBL based on a draw down from the line of credit. The term note provides for interest-only payments at 14.4% through May 20, 2017 of $5,208. From June 20, 2017 through May 20, 2021 (maturity date), we are obligated to make interest and principal payments of $11,011 per month. We paid $8,000 in costs related to this loan at its inception and another $16,000 of costs is due at the maturity of the note.

On April 26, 2017, we exchanged 102,351 shares of our common stock for $75,000 of the original $3,315,000 RBL promissory note partially purchased by Crede, based on an average per share exchange price of $0.73. The exchange also settled current interest and loan fees of $4,500 and a non-cash exchange premium of $9,951.

On April 26, 2017, the $4,044,056 term note with RBL entered into on December 20, 2016 was revised to reflect the $75,000 exchange transaction mentioned above. As a result the note was updated to reflect a principal payment and interest payment of $108,759 beginning June 20, 2017.

As of the date of this filing, we are in negotiations for payments terms associated with the $1.8 million balloon payment due May 20, 2017 for the stock fair value true-up payment relating to the acquisition of PayOnline.

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

The following discussion should be read and evaluated in conjunction with the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto contained in this Report and with the discussion under “Forward-Looking Statements” on page 2 at the beginning of this Report and the Risk Factors set forth in Part I, Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016 and in Part II, Item 1A of this Report.

Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Compared to the Three Months Ended March 31, 2016

We reported a net loss attributable to stockholders of $2,487,498, or $0.15 per share, for the three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to a net loss attributable to stockholders of $1,847,719, or $0.16 per share, for the three months ended March 31, 2016. This resulted in an increase in net loss attributable to stockholders of $639,779 primarily as a result of higher general and administrative expenses and non-cash compensation expense offset by an improved gross margin.

Net revenues consist primarily of payment processing fees. Net revenues were $13,561,941 for the three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to $11,261,059 for the three months ended March 31, 2016. The increase in net revenue is primarily due to organic growth of merchants in our North American Transaction Solutions segment which resulted in an increase to North American Transaction Solutions segment revenue of $3,112,271, (or 40% increase) for the three months ended March 31, 2017 versus the three months ended March 31, 2016. Increases in our North American Transaction Solutions segment revenue were primarily due to continued growth of SMB merchants with emphasis on value-added offerings. This was partially offset by a $1,136,511, (or 57%) decrease in our Mobile Solutions segment, as we continue to seek capital needed to prepay for content delivered through our platform as well as diversity to post-paid markets. Our Online Solutions segment revenue increased $325,122 (or 23%), from $1,414,907 for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $1,740,029 for the three months ended March 31, 2017, primarily due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates.

The following table sets forth our sources of revenues, cost of revenues and gross margins for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

Cost of revenues represents direct costs of generating revenues, including commissions, mobile operator fees, purchases of short numbers, interchange expense and processing fees. Cost of revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2017 were $11,459,992 as compared to $9,385,241 for the three months ended March 31, 2016. The $2,074,751 increase in cost of revenues was primarily due to a $2,808,416 increase in our North American Transaction Solutions segment due to increased volume. There was also a $263,960 increase in cost of revenues resulting from our Online Solutions segment operations also primarily due to changes in foreign currency rates. This was offset by a $997,625 decrease in our Mobile Solutions segment cost of revenues, which resulted from the decrease in sales for our Mobile Solutions segment for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

Gross Margin for the three months ended March 31, 2017 was $2,101,949, or 15% of net revenue, as compared to $1,875,818, or 17% of net revenue, for the three months ended March 31, 2016. The $226,131 increase in gross margin was due to the increased volume of processing in our North American Transaction Solutions offset by a decrease of $138,886 in our Mobile Solutions margin caused from a decrease in business. 

Total operating expenses were $4,364,687 for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Total operating expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2017 consisted of general and administrative expenses of $2,831,161, non-cash compensation expenses of $596,404, provision for bad debts of $279,759, and depreciation and amortization of $657,363. Total operating expenses were $3,589,156 for the three months ended March 31, 2016, which consisted of general and administrative expenses of $2,088,313, non-cash compensation expenses of $360,984, provision for bad debts of $251,741, and depreciation and amortization of $888,118.  

The components of our general and administrative expenses are discussed below.

General and administrative expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 consisted of operating expenses not otherwise delineated in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss and include salaries and benefits, professional fees, rent, travel expense, filing fees, transaction gains, office expenses, communication expense, insurance expense, and other expenses required to run our business, as follows:

Salaries, benefits, taxes and contractor payments were $1,367,710 for the three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to $1,178,947 for the three months ended March 31, 2016.

The increase in salaries of $488,763 was due primarily to the increase of Corporate expenses for a $300,000 discretionary bonus payable to our CEO and approved by the Board of directors. The bonus is payable when cash flow of the business can support the payment. Additionally, North American Transaction Solutions segment salaries increased $87,171 due to an increase in headcount and sales incentives for key employees. We also saw an increase of $108,982 and $15,893, respectively, in our Online Solutions and Mobile Solutions segments which were primarily due to the Ruble exchange rate and to a lesser extent, salary increases.

Professional fees were $673,690 for the three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to $524,387 for the three months ended March 31, 2016.

Professional fees increased by $149,303 mainly due to Online Solutions segments’ consulting fees which increased by $132,758 mainly due to an increase in portfolio management consulting.

Non-cash compensation expense from share-based compensation was $596,404 for the three months ended March 31, 2017, compared to $360,984 for the three months ended March 31, 2016. The majority of these expenses were for employee and consultant incentives in both periods.

We recorded bad debt expense of $279,759 for the three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to $251,741 for the three months ended March 31, 2016. For the three months ended March 31, 2017, we recorded a loss which was primarily comprised of $286,943 in ACH rejects offset by a $7,184 recovery from our Russian operations. For the three months ended March 31, 2016, we recorded a loss which was primarily comprised of $263,789 in ACH rejects offset by a $12,048 recovery from our Russian operations.

Depreciation and amortization expense consists primarily of the amortization of merchant portfolios plus depreciation expense on fixed assets, client acquisition costs, capitalized software expenses, trademarks, domain names and employee non-compete agreements.  Depreciation and amortization expense was $657,363 for the three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to $888,118 for the three months ended March 31, 2016.

Interest expense was $269,688 for the three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to $150,438 for three months ended March 31, 2016, representing an increase of $119,250 as follows:

Other interest costs primarily consisted of $45,132 resulting from the stock price guarantee related to the PayOnline acquisition and $57,159 resulting from the promissory note entered into on March 1, 2017 with Star Capital Management, LLC. (See Note 12. Related Party Transactions).

The net loss attributable to non-controlling interests amounted to $50,701 for three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to $37,876 for the three months ended March 31, 2016.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our total assets at March 31, 2017 were $23.0 million compared to $23.3 million at December 31, 2016. The period over period change in total assets is primarily attributable to a decrease in accounts receivables, due to collections of North American Transaction Solutions segment annual fees, a $0.2 million decrease in other long term assets due to a return of excess reserves held by North American Transaction Solutions segment processors, offset by a $0.2 million increase in prepaid and other expenses primarily due to our Mobile Solutions segment providing advances to partners.

At December 31, 2016, we had total current assets of $9.2 million including $0.6 million of cash, $7.1 million of accounts receivable, and $1.5 million of prepaid expenses and other assets.

We currently believe that we will require an additional $4.8 million to finance continuing operations as currently conducted over the next 12 months. In addition, we have a payment obligation of approximately $1.8 million associated with our PayOnline acquisition. These conditions raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.

Additional funds may be raised through debt financing and/or the issuance of equity securities, there being no assurance that any type of financing on terms satisfactory to us will be available or otherwise occur. Debt financing must be repaid regardless of whether we generate revenues or cash flows from operations and may be secured by substantially all of our assets. Any equity financing or debt financing that requires the issuance of equity securities or warrants to the lender would cause the percentage ownership by our current stockholders to be diluted, which dilution may be substantial. Also, any additional equity securities issued may have rights, preferences or privileges senior to those of existing stockholders. If such financings are not available when required or are not available on acceptable terms, we may be unable to implement our business plans or take advantage of business opportunities, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and/or prospects and may ultimately require us to suspend or cease operations, which could cause investors to lose the entire amount of their investment.

The net loss attributable to Net Element, Inc. stockholders was $2.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared to $1.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016.

Operating activities used $956,223 of cash for the three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to $947,001 of cash used for the three months ended March 31, 2016. Negative operating cash flow of $956,223 for the three months ended March 31, 2017 was primarily due to a net loss of $2,487,498 and a $231,755 increase in prepaid and other assets and a $445,953 net decrease of deferred revenue primarily resulting from amortization of annual fees, offset by a $449,284 increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses and a $510,498 decrease in account receivable.

For the three months ended March 31, 2017, investing activities used $403,230 in cash primarily for client acquisition costs as compared to $396,819 of cash used primarily to purchase portfolios and client acquisition costs for the three months ended March 31, 2016.

Financing activities provided $1,493,611 in cash for the three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to $985,045 of cash provided from financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2016. Financing activities provided $1,493,611 for the three months ended March 31, 2017, primarily from the sale of stock. Financing activities provided $985,045 in cash for the three months ended March 31, 2016 resulting from related party advances of $910,045 and proceeds from indebtedness of $75,000.

We have Russian operations that transact in foreign currencies including Russian Rubles, Euros, and Kazakhstan Tenges. The effect of exchange rate changes increased our US Dollar-denominated cash balance by $57,288 for the three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to a $57,537 increase for the three months ended March 31, 2016.

Off-balance sheet arrangements

At March 31, 2017, we did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements as defined in Item 303(a)(4) of Regulation S-K.  

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.

Not applicable.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures.

Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance 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 Commission’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, as appropriate, to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management is required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.

As of the end of the period covered by this Report, our management conducted an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and Rule 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act). Based on that evaluation, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective because there are a limited number of personnel employed and we cannot have an adequate segregation of duties, and due to the material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting as discussed below under “Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.” Accordingly, management cannot provide reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objective. Management works to mitigate these risks by being personally involved in all substantive transactions and attempts to obtain verification of transactions and accounting policies and treatments involving our operations, including those overseas. We are in the process of reviewing and, where necessary, modifying controls and procedures throughout the Company, particularly in light of our recent acquisitions and the continued integration of these businesses. We will continue to address deficiencies as resources permit.

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under Exchange Act). Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that: (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

We recognize that because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies and procedures may deteriorate.

Management of the Company conducted an assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2017, based on the framework in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the “COSO II Framework”). Based on management’s assessment in accordance with the criteria in the COSO Framework, our management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was not effective as of March 31, 2017. 

Management is aware of the following material weaknesses (a material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the Company’s annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected and corrected on a timely basis) in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting:

Control Environment

Control Activities

Information and Communication

Monitoring

These material weaknesses impede the ability of management to adequately oversee our internal control over financial reporting on a consistent basis. Management intends to continue focusing its remediation efforts in the near term on providing board and committee members with tools and COSO training designing revised accounting and financial reporting policies and procedures that will help ensure that adequate internal controls over financial reporting are met. Additionally, these revised procedures will be formally documented and procedures will focus on transaction processing, period-end account analyses and providing for additional review and monitoring procedures and periodically assess the need for additional accounting resources as the business develops and resources permit. Management also is committed to taking further action and implementing enhancements or improvements as resources permit. We recognize that, due to the size and stage of development of our foreign businesses, implementation of additional measures may take considerable time.

Notwithstanding the material weaknesses discussed above, our management has concluded that the financial statements included in this Report fairly present in all material respects our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.

Except as specifically described above in this Item 4, there was no change in our internal control over financial reporting during our first fiscal quarter of 2017 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal proceedings.

For a discussion of legal proceedings, see “—Litigation” in Note 11 to the condensed consolidated financial statements contained in Part I, Item 1 of this Report, which section is incorporated by reference herein.

Item 1A. Risk Factors.

In addition to the information set forth in this Report, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, which could materially affect our business, financial condition or future results. The risks described in such reports are not the only risks facing us. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may eventually prove to materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results.

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

Sales of Unregistered Securities

None.

Item 3.  Defaults Upon Senior Securities.

None.

Item 4.  Mine Safety Disclosures.

Not applicable.

Item 5.  Other Information.

None.

Item 6. Exhibits.

A list of the exhibits filed as a part of this Report is set forth on the Exhibit Index that follows page 36 of this Report and is incorporated herein by reference.

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.

EXHIBIT INDEX

* Filed herewith.