Prairie Operating Co. - Annual Report: 2017 (Form 10-K)

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

[X] ANNUAL REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended: December 31, 2017

or

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

Commission file number: 000-33383

WIZARD WORLD, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

662 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 300

Los Angeles, CA 90049

(Address of principal executive offices)

(310) 648-8410

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act: None

Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act: Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes [  ] No [X]

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes [  ] No [X]

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 checkmark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§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 if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [  ]

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. [  ]

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the registrant on June 30, 2017, based on a closing price of $0.20 was $3,981,938. As of April 2, 2018, the registrant had 68,535,036 shares of its common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, outstanding.

Documents Incorporated By Reference: None.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are “forward-looking” statements, as well as historical information. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot assure you that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including matters described in the section titled “Risk Factors.” Forward-looking statements include those that use forward-looking terminology, such as the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “project,” “plan,” “will,” “shall,” “should,” and similar expressions, including when used in the negative. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable and achievable, these statements involve risks and uncertainties and we cannot assure you that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ from these forward-looking statements include the following:

All forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by these and other factors. We undertake no obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether to reflect events or circumstances after the date initially filed or published, to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events or otherwise unless required by applicable law.

PART I

Item 1. Business.

As used in this Annual Report, “we,” “us,” “our,” “Wizard,” “Company” or “our Company” refer to Wizard World, Inc. and references to “Conventions” refer collectively to Kick the Can Corp. and its predecessors, Wizard Conventions, Inc. and Kicking the Can, L.L.C.

Our Company

Through our operating subsidiary Conventions, the Company is a producer of “pop culture” live multimedia conventions across the United States. These live multimedia conventions provide a social networking and entertainment venue for enthusiasts of movies, TV shows, video games, technology, toys, social networking/gaming, comic books, anime, and graphic novels. The Company is also moving forward with initiatives that will enhance the Company’s current operations.

Company History

Wizard World, Inc. (f/k/a GoEnergy, Inc.) was incorporated in Delaware on May 2, 2001. The Company was initially involved in oil and gas exploration but ceased operations and abandoned any interests it had in such properties.

On December 7, 2010, the Company entered into a Share Purchase and Share Exchange Agreement (the “Exchange Agreement”) among the Company, the former majority stockholder of the Company, Conventions, and shareholders of Conventions, under which Conventions became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.

On August 27, 2014, the Company entered into a Joint Venture and Operating Agreement for a forty-seven and one half percent (47.5%) interest in CON TV, LLC (“CONtv”), with Cinedigm Entertainment Corp. (“Cinedigm”), ROAR, LLC (“ROAR”) and Bristol Capital, LLC (“Bristol”). On November 16, 2015, the parties entered into an Amended and Restated Operating Agreement, effective as of July 1, 2015, which, among other things, restructured the business relationship between the Company and Cinedigm with respect to the ownership and operation of CONtv. Under that agreement, the Company greatly reduced and limited its obligations to the venture, while retaining a ten percent (10%) membership interest in CONtv.

On December 29, 2014, the Company and a member of the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company formed Wiz Wizard, LLC (“Wiz Wizard”) in the State of Delaware. On February 4, 2016, the member of the Board assigned his fifty percent (50%) membership interest to the Company. Consequently, Wiz Wizard is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. Wiz Wizard is not currently active.

On April 10, 2015, the Company and a third-party formed ButtaFyngas, LLC in the State of Delaware. The Company owns fifty percent (50%) of the membership interests. ButtaFyngas, LLC is not currently active.

Our executive offices are located at 662 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 300, Los Angeles California 90049, and our telephone number is (310) 648-8410.

Business Overview

The Company produces live pop culture conventions (“Comic Conventions”) across the United States that provide a social networking and entertainment venue for enthusiasts of movies, TV shows, video games, technology, toys, social networking, gaming, comic books, and graphic novels. Our Comic Conventions provide an opportunity for companies in the entertainment, toy, gaming, publishing and retail business to carry out sales, marketing, product promotion, public relations, advertising, and sponsorship efforts.

During 2016, the Company underwent a significant senior management restructuring. The restructuring included the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer and new Chief Operating Officer, both entering their roles with experience at major movie studios and television networks. The Company also appointed an Executive Chairman. Focused on reforming the Company’s operations and key operating controls, the new management has worked extensively to position the Company to successfully grow by, among other things, implementing newly constituted internal accounting, marketing, and talent departments. A further description of management’s work to create a foundation for the Company to grow can be found below in Growth Strategy.

Conventions

Conventions has been producing Comic Conventions since July 1997.

In 2017, Conventions produced 14 Comic Conventions in the following cities: (i) Portland, OR; (ii) New Orleans, LA; (iii) Madison, WI; (iv) Cleveland, OH; (v) Chicago, IL; (vi) Minneapolis, MN; (vii) Philadelphia, PA; (viii) St Louis, MO; (ix) Des Moines, IA; (x) Sacramento, CA; (xi) Columbus, OH; (xii) Oklahoma City, OK (xiii) Austin, TX; (xiv) Nashville, TN.

The Company receives revenue from its Comic Conventions primarily from three sources: (i) consumer admissions; (ii) exhibitor booth sales; and (iii) national and/or regional sponsorships. Comic Conventions vary in cost to produce. Production costs vary based on the size and scope of the production. Generally, our production costs range from approximately $1,000,000 for a smaller scale production to over $2,000,000 for a larger production.

The Company’s plan for 2018 is to produce Comic Convention in the following cities: (i) New Orleans, LA; (ii) St. Louis, MO; (iii) Cleveland, OH; (iv) Portland, OR; (v) Philadelphia, PA; (vi) Des Moines, IA; (vii) (viii) Columbus, OH ; (ix) Boise ID; (x) Winston Salem, NC; (xi) Chicago, IL; (xii) Tulsa, OK; (xiii) Austin, TX; (xiv) Sacramento, CA; (xv) Springfield, MO; (xvi) Montgomery, AL; (xvii) Madison WI.

Our target audience includes men and women in the 18 to 34 year old demographic, together with families of all ages who are fans of various types of entertainment and media, including movies, music, toys, video games, consumer electronics, computers, and lifestyle products (e.g. clothes, footwear, digital devices, and mobile phones). We continuously review our existing operations and procedures relating to our Comic Conventions in order to ensure that we produce the best possible fan experience at our Comic Conventions, and maximize revenue while containing costs.

CONtv

The Company currently holds a limited and passive interest in CONtv, a digital network devoted to fans of pop culture entertainment.

ConBox

In April 2015, the Company through its subsidiary, Wiz Wizard, launched ComicConBox (“ConBox”). ConBox is a subscription-based premium monthly box service. The boxes provided by ConBox feature collectibles, exclusives, toys, tech and gaming, licensed artwork, superior comics and apparel, Comic Convention admissions, special VIP discounts and more, which are shipped on or around the end of every month. The Company is currently evaluating its ConBox strategy with the objective of providing more highly-curated goods to subscribers while reducing the cost of production. The Company believes that the profitability of ConBox is limited due to the high cost of goods and logistical complications. During the first month of 2017, the Company ceased its ConBox operations.

Digital Media

The Company produces a number of digital media properties, including, but not limited to, our recently updated website www.wizardworld.com, emails, newsletters, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram, to create awareness of our Comic Conventions and provide updates to our fans and consumers. To a large extent we also use our website www.wizardworld.com to provide the latest Wizard World news and information. While we derive little or no direct revenue from these properties, they have the indirect benefit of supporting sales relating to our Comic Conventions (dealer and exhibitor booths, admissions, sponsorships), as well as helping us secure additional sought after and high profile talent. This in turn helps us obtain additional admissions, booth sales and sponsorships for our Comic Conventions. The Company intends to increase its presence in the digital space, through the creation and distribution of high quality and compelling content. Plans are underway to launch an initiative that will greatly amplify the Company’s digital presence and enhance the Company’s current operations.

The Company maintains an email list consisting of all our current and active users. This is a primary driver of information dissemination, along with Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. YouTube is mainly used as brand awareness, information is posted after a Comic Convention, which helps to generate excitement at future events. Because our Comic Conventions visit multiple cities, it is essential that we create excitement in multiple regions, not just focused on a single event.

Through Facebook, our attending artists and celebrities are able to help promote our Comic Conventions by announcing their involvement in our events. This helps generate excitement among both their existing fan base and ours while creating a sense of community and groundswell of support for the upcoming Comic Convention. Once we establish a critical mass of people, the Comic Convention can become part of the fabric of the community where people anticipate and look forward to the event months and sometimes even a full year in advance. Retention of Comic Convention attendees is essential to our sales process. Procuring new and timely talent helps generate new customers, as well as the word of mouth of previous attendees. Much of this is achieved via email, Facebook, Twitter, and www.wizardworld.com.

Unlike many live events (sports, concerts, etc.), where attendees are spectators (even if they are a part of a community at large), at our Comic Conventions the attendees participate in events. This atmosphere creates a greater amount of user generated content on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. For instance, we generally observe an increase in Facebook “Likes” on profile picture changes on Facebook the days during and after our Comic Conventions featuring celebrity “Photo Ops.” This is a non-paid form of free advertising. Social networks such as Facebook and Twitter are a perfect marriage for these types of event photos.

Strategy

Our objective is to create an expanded and qualitatively enhanced digital initiative to leverage the Company’s digital extensions to become a dominant voice for pop culture enthusiasts across multiple media platforms. Key elements of our strategy include:

Sponsorships and Advertising

The Company sells sponsorship and advertising opportunities to businesses seeking to reach our core target audience of active entertainment consumers, with a particular focus on men and women ages 18 to 34 and families.

Sponsorships and Promotions

We provide sponsorship opportunities that allow advertisers a wide range of promotional vehicles on-site and through our public relations efforts. For example, we offer advertisers the ability to: (i) display signage at our Comic Conventions, (ii) include their desired logos on all direct mail that is sent in connection with one or more Comic Conventions, (iii) be included in press releases to the media, (iv) obtain sponsor tags on the radio spots or in the print or online ads where we advertise, and (v) obtain advertising space in our digital media. We also provide the opportunity for advertisers to sponsor events at the Comic Conventions, such as costume contests or gaming tournaments and the ability to brand “step-and-repeats” for photo opportunities, meet and greets with celebrities, VIP packages, and “goody” bag giveaways. Sponsors pay a fee based upon the position of their advertising media and the exposure it will receive. We are able to increase our revenue by utilizing a strategic floor layout that maximizes the amount of highly profitable booth, advertising, and sponsorship opportunities. We are focused on increasing our sponsorship revenue and we are currently actively engaged in enhancing our capabilities in that regard.

Marketing

Our Comic Conventions are marketed through a variety of media outlets, including social media, websites, public relations, television, radio, out-of-home (OOH), email, “street-teams”, and by flyers, and postcards. Our Comic Conventions usually obtain publicity through coverage of the events at our Comic Conventions by local TV stations, radio stations, newspapers, national press, fan websites, blogs, and social network channels such as Twitter, Facebook, Flickr, and Tumblr. In certain instances, we do not pay for advertising because we can provide desirable content to media outlets. For example, we typically invite local TV stations to our Comic Conventions so that they can interview the celebrities featured at our Comic Conventions. As a result, we receive free TV coverage and the TV stations obtain content for their shows. In addition, we arrange for celebrities to call into local radio stations. As a result, we receive on-air promotion of our events and the radio station reaches a larger audience who want to tune in to hear our celebrities. We also receive on-air promotion by exchanging air time for admission giveaways to our Comic Conventions. With respect to the internet and online advertising, we advertise throughout our website www.wizardworld.com about upcoming Comic Conventions. We also send out emails to our fans on a regular basis.

Trademarks and Copyrights

We have a portfolio of trademarks and service marks and maintain a catalog of copyrighted works. Such marks include “Wizard World”, “Where Pop FI Comes to Life” and “Wizard World Girls” and “WizPop”.

Regulation

Typically, we do not have to obtain permits to operate the Comic Conventions. The convention centers at which such events occur obtain any required permits and cover fire safety and occupancy matters as part of the rental agreement. Crowd control varies by location and is either provided by the convention center’s personnel or by a third-party security service recommended by the convention center. The convention centers do, however, require liability insurance, which Conventions has obtained and maintained.

Customers

We derive revenue from both Comic Convention attendees and corporate clients that purchase sponsor opportunities and take part in our Comic Conventions as exhibitors.

Show Attendees

Our Comic Conventions are attended primarily by men and women in the 18 to 34 year old demographic, together with families of all ages who are fans of various types of entertainment and media, including movies, music, toys, video games, consumer electronics, computers, and lifestyle products (e.g. clothes, footwear, digital devices, and mobile phones). We are seeking to develop a positive reputation for hosting quality events in order to build brand loyalty among our show attendees and ensure repeat attendance.

Corporate Sponsors and Exhibitors

We continue to target some of the leading movie studios, video game producers, comic book publishers, television broadcasters, and toy manufacturers as future exhibitors and sponsors. In addition, our digital media business will provide sales opportunities across the Fortune 1000 corporate sector, as these brand advertisers look to leverage our media properties to reach our target audience.

No single advertiser, promoter or sponsor comprises a significant portion of our revenues.

Competition; Competitive Strengths

In the live, regionally-based consumer conventions market, the strength of a competitor is measured by the location and size of the region or city, the frequency of live events per year, the guest and VIP list (e.g. celebrities and artists), the number of paying attendees, the physical size of the convention, the extent of the public relations outreach (through traditional media, digital media and social media), and the quantity and quality of exhibitors and dealers. We believe that we have a strong competitive position because our Comic Conventions take place in well-known major cities across the United States throughout the year. Our strategy of providing multiple conventions per year enable us to market our events throughout the entire year, create a large amount of high-quality content that can be distributed through our digital media outlets, and market in not only the regional consumer areas, but nationally as well. The multiple locations also allow us to work with more celebrities, artists and writers and host them in multiple cities.

There are a number of Comic Convention providers that produce events across the country. We are unique in that we produce more Comic Conventions in the United States annually than any other organization. We reach audiences coast-to-coast, north-to-south markets in the United States. We believe that creates an advantage over other event producers because our Comic Conventions are not limited to one city, but rather span well-known cities across the United States.

We also believe that we have an advantage over competitors because our Comic Conventions are well known and well respected in the Comic Convention and pop culture industry. We have a reputation among fans, exhibitors, and celebrities for producing high-quality and well attended Comic Conventions.

Sales Channels and Pricing Policies

We have outsourced our admission sales to a national ticketing service. Our intention is to move all ticketing to a bar-code system that will be consumer friendly by decreasing lines at the convention venues. Admission prices typically range from $50 for a single day pass to $95 for a general weekend pass. Entry for children ten years old and under is free at Wizard Comic Conventions.

Sales and Marketing Strategy

We promote our Comic Conventions through a wide variety of media outlets, such as local radio and TV stations, newspapers, fan websites, and blogs. We also use online social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube, to reach our fans and provide updates. Further, we promote our Comic Conventions on our website www.wizardworld.com and through our email database. We currently sell to prospective corporate sponsors and advertisers through our direct sales force.

Growth Strategy

Aggressive steps taken by the Company’s new management throughout 2017 including but not limited to cost containment and the reduction of corporate overhead, have now provided a stable and reliable base of operations from which the Company can grow. The Company plans to pursue expansion by carefully evaluating various strategies that are now under consideration and utilizing knowledge gained throughout the Company’s history.

We plan to organically develop new Comic Conventions, including a focused initiative to develop new Comic Conventions in smaller markets; in a variety of alternative venues. We also seek to increase revenues of our existing Comic Conventions through improving the fan experience by adding more entertainment, exhibitors, celebrities, panels, gaming tournaments, genres of fandom and opportunities for VIP experiences. Internalizing various services provided at our Comic Conventions we believe we can also lead to increased revenues. For example, all photo-operations at our Conventions are now owned and controlled by the Company. To help us provide a better customer experience, and in order to address the logistics of hosting additional and more profitable Comic Conventions, the Company has entered into a relationship with a sophisticated ticket sales company. We have focused on the cost of production of each Convention and we have taken material strides to improve operating efficiencies.

The Company is also looking to leverage its existing resources and exposure, both online and at Comic Conventions, to generate revenue through new business opportunities. For example, the Company intends to move into the area of e-commerce and collectibles. The Company has embarked on a new digital initiative intended to promote its convention platform.

Additionally, we are attempting to increase revenue through increasing corporate sponsorships with national Fortune 1000 marketers by offering these advertisers a wide range of promotional vehicles, both on-site and through our digital media and online offerings. We believe that we will be able to further enhance our relationships with our existing dealers, exhibitors, celebrities, and VIPs while, at the same time, developing new relationships with national brand marketers looking to connect with our growing audiences. Currently the Company has embarked on a major initiative to identify potential local, regional and national sponsors and to conclude sponsorship arrangements with them.

To help facilitate our growth, we have recently restructured our marketing department which now produces and utilizes enhanced sales collateral. We have also upgraded our internal accounting department which has adopted the use of sophisticated accounting software and PO systems in order to better handle the accounting matters associated with a larger company.

The Wizard World Comic Convention digital marketing platform extends across online and social media outlets with a growth strategy that is fueled by continually producing content for and harnessing content from the growing Comic Convention consumers. For example, the platform includes: (i) the website www.wizardworld.com (ii) our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/wizardworld, (iii) Twitter at www.twitter.com/wizardworld, (iv) video social websites such as www.youtube.com/wizardworld, and (v) Instagram at www.instagram.com/wizardworld. Through the distribution of our content via digital media, we offer advertisers the ability to display their sponsorship messages in immersive and integrated ways, including, but not limited to, our large e-mail database of fans. Through sales varying from digital display advertising space on our digital media properties, to title sponsorship positioning on key aspects for the live events, we plan to generate new forms of sponsorship revenues and thus strengthen our financial condition. It is our further intention to expand the Company’s digital offerings by curating and producing high quality content for digital distribution which will broaden the Company’s position and reputation as an authentic voice of pop culture. The new digital initiatives will enhance the Company’s live event activities and will become a major force in their own right. We will also greatly increase our presence as a disseminator of collectible products as a part of a greatly augmented and expanded e-commerce initiative.

In the Fall of 2017, we announced two agreements with the CN Live platform in China. Under these agreements will provide English language programs across mainland China on an ad-supported and SVOD basis. Plans also include the development of IP with a major motion picture studio, in addition to exploring immersive media opportunities.

Employees

We currently have 18 full-time equivalent employees. Additionally, we engage 8 freelance consultants providing us with greater core competence in the disciplines of Marketing, Sponsorship Sales, Event Production and e-commerce.

Where You Can Find More Information

Our website address is www.wizardworld.com. We do not intend our website address to be an active link or to otherwise incorporate by reference the contents of the website into this Report. The public may read and copy any materials the Company files with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0030. The SEC maintains an Internet website (http://www.sec.gov) that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC.

Item 1A. Risk Factors.

Risks Relating to our Company

If we need additional capital to fund our growing operations, we may not be able to obtain sufficient capital and may be forced to limit the scope of our operations.

As we move forward to implement our growth strategies, we may experience increased capital needs. We may not, however, have sufficient capital to fund our future operations without additional capital investments. If adequate additional financing is not available on reasonable terms or at all, we may not be able to carry out our corporate strategy and we would be forced to modify our business plans (e.g., limit our expansion, limit our marketing efforts and/or decrease or eliminate capital expenditures), any of which may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flow. Such reduction could materially adversely affect our business and our ability to compete.

Our capital needs will depend on numerous factors, including, without limitation, (i) our profitability, (ii) our ability to respond to a release of competitive products by our competitors, and (iii) the amount of our capital expenditures, including acquisitions. Moreover, the costs involved may exceed those originally contemplated. Cost savings and other economic benefits expected may not materialize as a result of any cost overruns or changes in market circumstances. Failure to obtain intended economic benefits could adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating performances.

We need to manage growth in operations to maximize our potential growth and achieve our expected revenues. Our failure to manage growth can cause a disruption of our operations that may result in the failure to generate revenues at levels we expect.

In order to maximize potential growth in our current markets, we may have to expand our operations. Such expansion will place a significant strain on our management and our operational, accounting, and information systems. We expect that we will need to continue to improve our financial controls, operating procedures and management information systems. We will also need to effectively train, motivate, and manage our employees. Our failure to manage our growth could disrupt our operations and ultimately prevent us from generating the revenues we expect.

Insiders have substantial control over the Company, and they could delay or prevent a change in our corporate control even if our other stockholders want it to occur.

As of the date of this filing, our executive officers, directors, and principal stockholders who beneficially own 5% or more of our outstanding common stock, own a substantial amount of our outstanding common stock. These stockholders are able to exercise significant control over all matters requiring stockholder approval, including the election of directors and approval of significant corporate transactions. This could delay or prevent an outside party from acquiring or merging with our Company even if our other stockholders want it to occur. This may also limit your ability to influence the Company in other ways.

Our Certificate of Incorporation provides for indemnification of officers and directors at our expense and limits their liability, which may result in a major cost to us and hurt the interests of our stockholders because corporate resources may be expended for the benefit of officers and/or directors.

Our Certificate of Incorporation and applicable Delaware law provide for the indemnification of our directors and officers against attorney’s fees and other expenses incurred by them in any action to which they become a party arising from their association with or activities on our behalf. This indemnification policy could result in substantial expenditures by us that we will be unable to recoup.

We have been advised that, in the opinion of the SEC, indemnification for liabilities arising under federal securities laws is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification for liabilities arising under federal securities laws, other than the payment by us of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding, is asserted by a director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, we will (unless in the opinion of our counsel, the matter has been settled by controlling precedent) submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction, the question whether indemnification by us is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue. The legal process relating to this matter, if it were to occur, is likely to be very costly and may result in us receiving negative publicity, either of which factors is likely to materially reduce the market and price for our shares if such a market ever develops.

Risks Related to our Business and Industry

General

We may not be able to prevent others from using our intellectual property, and may be subject to claims by third parties that we infringe on their intellectual property.

We regard the content that we plan to distribute via digital media to be important to our success. We plan to rely on non-disclosure and other contractual provisions to protect our proprietary rights. We may also try to protect our intellectual property rights by, among other things, searching the Internet to detect unauthorized use of our intellectual property.

However, policing the unauthorized use of our intellectual property is often difficult and any steps we take may not, in every case, prevent the infringement by unauthorized third parties. Further, there can be no assurance that our efforts to enforce our rights and protect our intellectual property will be successful. We may need to resort to litigation to enforce our intellectual property rights, which may result in substantial costs and diversion of resources and management attention.

Further, although management does not believe that our products and services infringe on the intellectual rights of others, there is no assurance that we will not be the target of infringement or other claims. Such claims, even if not true, could result in significant legal and other costs and may be a distraction to our management or interrupt our business.

We encounter competition in our business, and any failure to compete effectively could adversely affect our results of operations.

We anticipate that our competitors will continue to expand and seek to obtain additional market share with competitive price and performance characteristics. Aggressive expansion of our competitors or the entrance of new competitors into our markets could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

If we do not compete successfully against new and existing competitors, we may lose our market share, and our operating results may be adversely affected.

We compete with other advertising service providers that may reach our target audience by means that are more effective than our Comic Conventions and digital media. Further, if such other providers of advertising have a long operating history, large product and service suites, more capital resources and broad international or local recognition, our operating results may be adversely affected if we cannot successfully compete.

Our future success depends upon, in large part, our continuing ability to attract and retain qualified personnel.

Expansion of our business and operations may require additional managers and employees with industry experience, in which case our success will be dependent on our ability to attract and retain experienced management personnel and other employees. There can be no assurance that we will be able to attract or retain qualified personnel. Competition may also make it more difficult and expensive to attract, hire and retain qualified managers and employees. If we fail to attract, train and retain sufficient numbers of the qualified personnel, our prospects, business, financial condition and results of operations will be materially and adversely affected.

Comic Convention Business

If we do not maintain and develop our Wizard World Comic Convention brand, we will not be able to attract an audience to the Comic Conventions.

We attract audiences and advertisers partly through brand name recognition. We believe that establishing, maintaining and enhancing our portfolio of Comic Conventions and the brands of our strategic partners will enhance our growth prospects. The promotion of our Wizard World Comic Convention brand and those of our strategic partners will depend largely on our success in maintaining a sizable and loyal audience, providing high-quality content and organizing effective marketing programs. If we fail to meet the standards to which our consumers are accustomed, our reputation will be harmed and we may lose market share.

Our future success depends on attracting sponsors and pop culture advertisers who will advertise at our Comic Conventions. If we fail to attract a sufficient number of sponsors and pop culture advertisers, our operating results and revenues may not meet expectations.

One of our important strategies is to create an integrated platform of tours on which sponsors and pop culture advertisers wishing to reach our young male target audience may advertise. However, advertisers may find that our targeted demographic does not consist of their desired consumers or a critical mass of consumers, decide to use a competitor’s services or decide not to use our services for other reasons. If the sponsors and pop culture advertisers decide against advertising with us, we may not realize our growth potential or meet investor expectations. Our future operating results and business prospects could be adversely affected.

We may not be able to respond to changing consumer preferences and our sales may decline.

We operate in markets that are subject to change, including changes in customer preferences. New fads, trends and shifts in pop culture could affect the type of live events customers will attend or the products consumers will purchase. Content in which we have invested significant resources may fail to meet consumer demand at the time. A decrease in the level of media exposure or popularity of the pop culture market or a loss in sales could have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects and financial condition.

We rely on key contracts and business relationships, and if our current or future business partners or contracting counterparties fail to perform or terminate any of their contractual arrangements with us for any reason or cease operations, or should we fail to adequately identify key business relationships, our business could be disrupted and our reputation may be harmed.

If any of our business partners or contracting counterparties fails to perform or terminates their agreement(s) with us for any reason, or if our business partners or contracting counterparties with which we have short-term agreements refuse to extend or renew the agreement or enter into a similar agreement, our ability to carry on operations and cross-sell sales and marketing services among different platforms may be impaired. In addition, we depend on the continued operation of our long-term business partners and contracting counterparties and on maintaining good relations with them. If one of our long-term partners or counterparties is unable (including as a result of bankruptcy or a liquidation proceeding) or unwilling to continue operating in the line of business that is the subject of our contract, we may not be able to obtain similar relationships and agreements on terms acceptable to us or at all. If a partner or counterparty fails to perform or terminates any of the agreements with us or discontinues operations, and we are unable to obtain similar relationships or agreements, such events could have an adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition. Further, if we are unable to timely produce our Comic Conventions or produce the same quality of Comic Conventions to which our target demographic has been accustomed, the consequences could be far-reaching and harmful to our reputation, existing business relationships and future growth potential.

We may also need to form new strategic partnerships or joint ventures to access appropriate assets and industry know-how. Failing to identify, execute and integrate such future partnerships or joint ventures may have an adverse effect on our business, growth, financial condition, and cash flow from operations.

Our future success depends on attracting high-profile celebrities and VIPs to our Comic Conventions. If we fail to attract such celebrities and VIPs, our attendance may suffer and our operating results and revenues may be adversely impacted.

Our ability to maintain our competitive position will be dependent on attracting high profile celebrities and VIPs to attend our Comic Conventions. We attract our audience by providing opportunities to meet some of their favorite celebrities. The failure of the Company to attract such high-profile celebrities and VIPs may hurt the attendance at our Comic Conventions and as a result, our operations results and revenues may be adversely impacted.

Digital Media

We could face a variety of risks of expanding into a new business.

The Company will expand into digital media and content creation. Risks of our entry into the new business line of digital media, include, without limitation: (i) potential diversion of management’s attention and other resources, including available cash, from our existing businesses; (ii) unanticipated liabilities or contingencies; (iii) the need for additional capital and other resources to expand into this new line of business; and (iv) inefficient combination or integration of operational and management systems and controls. Entry into a new line of business may also subject us to new laws and regulations with which we are not familiar, and may lead to increased litigation and regulatory risk. Further, our business model and strategy are still evolving and are continually being reviewed and revised, and we may not be able to successfully implement our business model and strategy. We may not be able to attract a sufficiently large number of audience or customers, or recover costs incurred for developing and marketing these products or services. If we are unable to successfully implement our growth strategies, our revenue and profitability may not grow as we expect, our competitiveness may be materially and adversely affected, and our reputation and business may be harmed.

In developing and marketing the new business of digital media, we may invest significant time and resources. Initial timetables for the introduction and development of our digital media business may not be achieved and price and profitability targets may not prove feasible. Furthermore, any new line of business could have a significant impact on the effectiveness of our system of internal controls. Failure to successfully manage these risks in the development and implementation of our new digital media business could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We will face significant competition in the digital media business. If we fail to compete effectively, we may lose users to competitors, which could materially and adversely affect our ability to generate revenues from online advertising.

We will face significant competition for online advertising revenues with other websites that sell online advertising services. In addition, we indirectly compete for advertising budgets with traditional advertising media, such as television and radio stations, newspapers and magazines, and major out-of-home media. Some of our competitors may have longer operating histories and significantly greater financial, technical and marketing resources than we do, and in turn may have an advantage in attracting and retaining users and advertisers.

Risks Relating to Being a Public Company

We will incur significant costs to ensure compliance with United States corporate governance and accounting requirements.

We will incur significant costs associated with our public company reporting requirements and costs associated with corporate governance requirements, including requirements under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and other rules implemented by the SEC. We expect all of these applicable rules and regulations to significantly increase our legal and financial compliance costs and to make some activities more time consuming and costly. We also expect that these applicable rules and regulations may make it more difficult and more expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance and we may be required to accept reduced policy limits and coverage or incur substantially higher costs to obtain the same or similar coverage. As a result, it may be more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified individuals to serve on the Board or as executive officers. We may be wrong in our prediction or estimate of the amount of additional costs we may incur or the timing of such costs.

If we fail to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting, our ability to accurately and timely report our financial results or prevent fraud may be adversely affected and investor confidence may be adversely impacted.

As directed by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, or SOX 404, the SEC adopted rules requiring public companies to include a report of management on the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting in their annual reports. Under current SEC rules, our management may conclude that our internal controls over our financial reporting are not effective. Even if our management concludes that our internal controls over financial reporting are effective, our independent registered public accounting firm may issue a report that is qualified if it is not satisfied with our controls or the level at which our controls are documented, designed, operated or reviewed, or if it interprets the relevant requirements differently from us. In the event that we are unable to have effective internal controls, investors and others may lose confidence in the reliability of our financial statements and our ability to obtain equity or debt financing as needed could suffer.

In addition, failure to implement required new or improved controls, or difficulties encountered in their implementation, could harm our operating results or cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations. If we or our independent registered public accounting firm identify material weaknesses, the disclosure of that fact, even if quickly remedied, could reduce the market’s confidence in our financial statements and harm our stock price. In addition, if we are unable to continue to comply with Section 404, our non-compliance could subject us to a variety of administrative sanctions, including the inability of registered broker-dealers to make a market in our common stock, which could reduce our stock price.

Risks Related To Our Industry

A continued decline in general economic conditions and disruption of financial markets may, among other things, reduce the discretionary income of consumers or further erode advertising markets, which could adversely affect our business.

Our operations are affected by general economic conditions, which affect consumers’ disposable income. The demand for entertainment and leisure activities tends to be highly sensitive to the level of consumers’ disposable income. Declines in general economic conditions could reduce the level of discretionary income that our fans and potential fans have to spend on consumer products and entertainment, which could adversely affect our revenues. Volatility and disruption of financial markets could limit our advertisers’, sponsors’, and/or promoters’ ability to obtain adequate financing to maintain operations and result in a decrease in sales volume that could have a negative impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Continued softness in the market could adversely affect our revenues or the financial viability of our distributors.

The advertising market is particularly volatile and we may not be able to effectively adjust to such volatility.

Advertising spending is volatile and sensitive to changes in the economy. Our advertising customers may reduce the amount they spend on our media for a number of reasons, including, without limitation:

We may be unable to maintain or increase our advertising fees and sales, which could negatively affect our ability to generate revenues in the future. A decrease in demand for advertising in general, and for our advertising services in particular, could materially and adversely affect our operating results.

Risks Related To Our Securities

Our common stock is quoted on the OTCBB and OTCQB, which may have an unfavorable impact on our stock price and liquidity.

Our common stock is quoted on the OTCBB and OTCQB. The quotation of our shares on the OTCBB and OTCQB may result in a less liquid market available for existing and potential stockholders to trade shares of our common stock, could depress the trading price of our common stock and could have a long-term adverse impact on our ability to raise capital in the future.

There is limited liquidity on the OTCBB and OTCQB, which enhances the volatile nature of our equity.

When fewer shares of a security are being traded on the OTCBB and OTCQB, volatility of prices may increase and price movement may outpace the ability to deliver accurate quote information. Due to lower trading volumes in shares of our common stock, there may be a lower likelihood that orders for shares of our common stock will be executed, and current prices may differ significantly from the price that was quoted at the time of entry of the order.

Our stock price is likely to be highly volatile because of our limited public float.

The market price of our common stock is likely to be highly volatile because there has been a relatively thin trading market for our stock, which causes trades of small blocks of stock to have a significant impact on our stock price. You may not be able to resell shares of our common stock following periods of volatility because of the market’s adverse reaction to volatility. Other factors that could cause such volatility may include, among other things: actual or anticipated fluctuations in our operating results; the absence of securities analysts covering us and distributing research and recommendations about us; overall stock market fluctuations; economic conditions generally; announcements concerning our business or those of our competitors; our ability to raise capital when we require it, and to raise such capital on favorable terms; conditions or trends in the industry; litigation; changes in market valuations of other similar companies; announcements by us or our competitors of significant contracts, acquisitions, strategic partnerships or joint ventures; future sales of common stock; actions initiated by the SEC or other regulatory bodies; and general market conditions. Any of these factors could have a significant and adverse impact on the market price of our common stock. These broad market fluctuations may adversely affect the trading price of our common stock.

The ownership by our Executive Chairman of our common stock will likely limit your ability to influence corporate matters.

Mr. Paul Kessler, our Executive Chairman, is the beneficial owner of a substantial amount of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock. As a result, our Mr. Kessler has significant influence over most matters that require approval by our stockholders, including the election of directors and approval of significant corporate transactions, even if other stockholders oppose them. This concentration of ownership might also have the effect of delaying or preventing a change of control of our Company that other stockholders may view as beneficial.

In order to raise sufficient funds to expand our operations, we may have to issue additional securities at prices which may result in substantial dilution to our shareholders.

If we raise additional funds through the sale of equity or convertible debt, our current stockholders’ percentage ownership will be reduced. In addition, these transactions may dilute the value of our common shares outstanding. We may also have to issue securities that may have rights, preferences and privileges senior to our common stock.

Our stock is thinly traded, so an investor may be unable to sell at or near ask prices or at all.

The shares of our common stock are traded on the OTCBB and OTCQB and are thinly traded, meaning that the number of persons interested in purchasing our common stock at or near ask prices at any given time may be relatively small or non-existent. This situation is attributable to a number of factors, including the fact that we are a smaller reporting company that is relatively unknown to stock analysts, stock brokers, institutional investors and others in the investment community who generate or influence sales volume. Even in the event that we come to the attention of such persons, they would likely be reluctant to follow an unproven company such as ours or purchase or recommend the purchase of our shares until such time as we become more seasoned and viable. As a consequence, our stock price may not reflect an actual or perceived value. Also, there may be periods of several days or more when trading activity in our shares is minimal or non-existent, as is currently the case, as compared to a seasoned issuer that has a large and steady volume of trading activity that will generally support continuous sales without an adverse effect on share price. A broader or more active public trading market for our common shares may not develop or if developed, may not be sustained. Due to these conditions, you may not be able to sell your shares at or near ask prices or at all if you need money or otherwise desire to liquidate your shares.

Currently, there is a limited public market for our securities, and there can be no assurances that any public market will ever develop and, even if developed, it is likely to be subject to significant price fluctuations.

We have a trading symbol for our common stock, namely ‘WIZD’. However, our stock has been thinly traded, if at all. Consequently, there can be no assurances as to whether:

Until our common stock is fully distributed and an orderly market develops in our common stock, if ever, the price at which it trades is likely to fluctuate significantly. Prices for our common stock will be determined in the marketplace and may be influenced by many factors, including the depth and liquidity of the market for shares of our common stock, developments affecting our business, including the impact of the factors referred to elsewhere in these risk factors, investor perception of our Company and general economic and market conditions. No assurances can be given that an orderly or liquid market will ever develop for the shares of our common stock.

We are subject to the “penny stock rules” which will make our securities more difficult to sell.

We are subject to the SEC’s “penny stock” rules because our securities sell below $5.00 per share. The penny stock rules require broker-dealers to deliver a standardized risk disclosure document prepared by the SEC which provides information about penny stocks and the nature and level of risks in the penny stock market. The broker-dealer must also provide the customer with current bid and offer quotations for the penny stock, the compensation of the broker-dealer and its salesperson, and monthly account statements showing the market value of each penny stock held in the customer’s account. In addition, the bid and offer quotations, and the broker-dealer and salesperson compensation information must be given to the customer orally or in writing prior to completing the transaction and must be given to the customer in writing before or with the customer’s confirmation.

Furthermore, the penny stock rules require that prior to a transaction, the broker dealer must make a special written determination that the penny stock is a suitable investment for the purchaser and receive the purchaser’s written agreement to the transaction. The penny stock rules are burdensome and may reduce purchases of any offerings and reduce the trading activity for our securities. As long as our securities are subject to the penny stock rules, the holders of such securities will find it more difficult to sell their securities.

We are not likely to pay cash dividends in the foreseeable future.

We currently intend to retain any future earnings for use in the operation and expansion of our business. Accordingly, we do not expect to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future but will review this policy as circumstances dictate.

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.

Not applicable.

Item 2. Properties.

On June 16, 2016, the Company entered into a Standard Multi-Tenant Sublease (“Sublease”) to occupy office space at 662 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, California 90049 with Bristol Capital Advisors, LLC, an entity controlled by the Company’s Executive Chairman. The term of the Sublease is 5 years and 3 months, beginning on July 1, 2016 with monthly payments of $8,118. Upon execution of the sublease, the Company paid a security deposit of $9,137 and $199,238 for prepaid rent. The prepaid rent allowed the Company to obtain preferential lease terms and induced the landlord to make certain improvements to the property. Bristol Capital Advisors, LLC is not the owner of the subject premises (it is a tenant in the building) and Bristol Capital Advisors, LLC passes its actual and direct cost of the Company’s occupancy through to the Company without any fee, profit or markup. Bristol Capital Advisors, LLC in no manner profited from the pre-payment of rent. The Company bases its operations out of this location.

The Company does not own any real estate.

Item 3. Legal Proceedings.

On October 28, 2016, the Company filed a Complaint (the “SDNY Complaint”) and commenced a lawsuit in the United States District Court, Southern District of New York, against Stephen Shamus, the former Chief Marketing Officer of the Company whose employment was terminated on October 27, 2016 (the “SDNY Lawsuit”). In the SDNY Lawsuit, the Company alleges, among other things, breach of fiduciary duty, misappropriation of corporation assets, breach of contract, and conversion, against Mr. Shamus relating to the Company’s assertion that he used his position with the Company to improperly obtain memorabilia at the Company’s Comic Conventions which he would then sell and retain the profits from for his own benefit. On November 16, 2016, Mr. Shamus filed an Answer to the SDNY Complaint with counterclaims against the Company (the “SDNY Counterclaim”). The SDNY Counterclaim alleges breach of contract and unjust enrichment against the Company and seeks compensatory damages in the form of cash.

The SDNY Lawsuit was concluded on what management considers to be favorable terms on February 15, 2017.

On December 16, 2016, the Company filed a Complaint (the “DNJ Complaint”) and commenced a lawsuit in the United States District Court, District of New Jersey (the “DNJ Lawsuit”), against Gareb Shamus, the founder and former Chief Executive Officer of the Company; Pivot Media LLC and 4 Brothers LLC, entities owned and operated by Gareb Shamus; Stephen Shamus, the former Chief Marketing Officer of the Company whose employment was terminated on October 27, 2016; Kenneth Shamus, a former director of the Company; Eric Weisblum; GEM Funding LLC; It’s All Normal LLC; and various other defendants (collectively, the “DNJ Defendants”). In the DNJ Complaint, the Company alleged that the DNJ Defendants violated Section 13(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 and SEC Rules 13d-1 and 13d-5. The Company sought an injunction to compel the DNJ Defendants to make complete disclosure under Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and to cure their past violations.

The DNJ Lawsuit was concluded on what management considers to be favorable terms on February 15, 2017.

On January 11, 2017, Arden B. Silverman (“Silverman”), d/b/a Capital Asset Protection, filed a complaint (the “Silverman Complaint”) and commenced a lawsuit against the Company in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles – Central District (the “Silverman Lawsuit”). Silverman brought the claim after being assigned the right title and interest in a claim against the Company by Rogers & Cowan, Inc., a California corporation (Rogers & Cowan). The Silverman Complaint alleges the Company owes $42,600 plus attorney’s fees to Silverman for services provided by Rogers & Cowan to the Company. On April 10, 2017, the Company filed a cross Cross-Complaint in the Silverman Lawsuit against Rogers and Cowan, among others (the “Cross-Complaint”). The Cross-Complaint seeks in excess of $90,000 from Rogers & Cowan, among others, and alleges, fraud, negligent misrepresentation, breach of written agreement; breach of covenant of good faith and fair dealings, and violations of Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§17200 et seq. The matters at issue in the Silverman lawsuit were resolved by way of a mutual settlement that, in the opinion of, was advantageous to the Company in June 2017.

A complaint for breach of contract and various disability discrimination claims was filed by former COO Randy Malinoff after the Company terminated him for cause. The Company believes that the matter, which is set for trial in 2019, is wrongful and is without merit. The Company currently intends to proceed to trial on this matter.

With the exception of the foregoing disputes, the Company is not involved in any disputes and does not have any litigation matters pending which the Company believes could have a materially adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations. There is no action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation before or by any court, public board, government agency, self-regulatory organization or body pending or, to the knowledge of the executive officers of our Company or any of our subsidiaries, threatened against or affecting our Company, our common stock, any of our subsidiaries or of our Company’s or our Company’s subsidiaries’ officers or directors in their capacities as such, in which an adverse decision could have a material adverse effect.

However, from time to time, we may become involved in various lawsuits and legal proceedings which arise in the ordinary course of business. Litigation is subject to inherent uncertainties, and an adverse result in these or other matters may arise from time to time that may harm our business.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.

Not applicable.

PART II

Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.

(a) Market Information

Our shares of common stock are currently quoted on the OTCBB and OTCQB under the symbol “WIZD”.

The following table sets forth the high and low bid price for our common stock for each quarter during the past two fiscal years. The prices reflect inter-dealer quotations, do not include retail mark-ups, markdowns or commissions and do not necessarily reflect actual transactions.

(b) Holders

As of March 28, 2018, a total of 68,535,036 shares of the Company’s common stock were outstanding and held by 30 shareholders of record. This figure does not take into account those shareholders whose certificates are held in the name of broker-dealers or other nominees.

(c) Dividends

We have not declared or paid any dividends on our common stock and intend to retain any future earnings to fund the development and growth of our business. Therefore, we do not anticipate paying dividends on our common stock for the foreseeable future. There are no restrictions on our present ability to pay dividends to stockholders of our common stock, other than those prescribed by Delaware law.

(d) Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans

Below is a description of the Company’s compensation plan adopted in 2011, and the Company’s compensation plan adopted in 2016.

2011 Incentive Stock Award Plan, as Amended

On May 9, 2011, the Board approved, authorized and adopted (subject to stockholder approval) the 2011 Incentive Stock and Award Plan (the “2011 Plan”). The 2011 Plan was amended on September 14, 2011, April 11, 2012, July 9, 2012 and September 25, 2014. The Plan provides for the issuance of up to 15,000,000 shares of our common stock through the grant of non-qualified options, incentive options and restricted stock to our directors, officers, consultants, attorneys, advisors and employees. The 2011 Plan has been administered by the Board since its adoption.

Under the 2011 Plan:

1. Each option contains the following terms:

2. Each award of restricted stock will be subject to the following terms:

2016 Incentive Stock Award Plan

On August 12, 2016, Board unanimously approved, authorized and adopted (subject to stockholder approval) the 2016 Incentive Stock and Award Plan (the “2016 Plan”) to replace the expired Third Amended and Restated 2011 Incentive Stock and Award Plan. The 2016 Plan provides for the issuance of up to 5,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock through the grant of nonqualified options, incentive options and restricted stock to the Company’s directors, officers, consultants, attorneys, advisors and employees. Until a committee consisting of two or more independent, non-employee directors is appointed to administer the 2016 Plan, the Board shall administer the Plan.

Under the 2016 Plan:

1. Each option will contain the following terms:

(i) the exercise price for an Incentive Option (as defined in the Plan), which shall be determined at the time of grant, shall not be less than 100% of the Fair Market Value (defined as the closing price on the final trading day immediately prior to the grant on the principal exchange or quotation system on which the common stock is listed or quoted, as applicable) of the common stock of the Company, provided that if the recipient of the option owns more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting power of the Company, the exercise price shall be at least 110% of the Fair Market Value, and provided further that with respect to the Nonqualified Option (as defined in the Plan), the purchase price of each share of stock purchasable under a Nonqualified Option shall be at least 100% of the Fair Market Value of such share of stock on the date that Nonqualified option is granted, unless the Committee, in its sole and absolute discretion, determines to set the purchase price of such Nonqualified Option below Fair Market Value;

(ii) the term of each option shall be fixed by the Board, provided that such option shall not be exercisable more than five (5) years after the date such option is granted, and provided further that with respect to an Incentive Option, if the recipient owns more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting power of the Company, the Incentive Option shall not be exercisable more than five (5) years after the date such Incentive Option is granted;

(iii) subject to acceleration in the event of a change of control of the Company (as further described in the Plan), the period during which the options vest shall be designated by the Board or, in the absence of any option vesting periods designated by the Board at the time of grant, shall vest and become exercisable in equal amounts on each fiscal quarter of the Company through the four (4) year anniversary of the date on which the option was granted;

(iv) no option is transferable and each is exercisable only by the recipient of such option except in the event of the death of the recipient (if such recipient is a natural person); and

(v) with respect to Incentive Options, the aggregate Fair Market Value of common stock exercisable for the first time during any calendar year shall not exceed $100,000.

2. Each award of restricted stock will be subject to the following terms:

(i) no rights to an award of restricted stock is granted to the intended recipient of restricted stock unless and until the grant of restricted stock is accepted within the period prescribed by the Board;

(ii) certificate(s) evidencing the restricted stock shall not be delivered until they are free of any restrictions specified by the Board at the time of grant;

(iii) recipients of restricted stock have the rights of a stockholder of the Company as of the date of the grant of the restricted stock;

(iv) shares of restricted stock are forfeitable until the terms of the restricted stock grant have been satisfied or the employment with the Company is terminated prior to such restrictions being satisfied; and

(v) the restricted stock is not transferable until the date on which the Board has specified such restrictions have lapsed.

As of December 31, 2017, the Company issued the following stock options and grants under the 2011 Plan:

Equity Compensation Plan Information Under The 2011 Plan

As of December 31, 2017, the Company issued the following stock options and grants under the 2016 Plan:

Equity Compensation Plan Information Under The 2016 Plan

Rule 10B-18 Transactions

During the year ended December 31, 2017, there were no repurchases of the Company’s common stock by the Company.

Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

There were no unregistered sales of the Company’s equity securities during the year ended December 31, 2017 that were not previously disclosed in a Current Report on Form 8-K or Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

Item 6. Selected Financial Data.

Not applicable.

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

THE FOLLOWING DISCUSSION OF OUR PLAN OF OPERATION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS SHOULD BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND RELATED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS INCLUDED ELSEWHERE IN THIS REPORT. THIS DISCUSSION CONTAINS FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS THAT RELATE TO FUTURE EVENTS OR OUR FUTURE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE. THESE STATEMENTS INVOLVE KNOWN AND UNKNOWN RISKS, UNCERTAINTIES AND OTHER FACTORS THAT MAY CAUSE OUR ACTUAL RESULTS, LEVELS OF ACTIVITY, PERFORMANCE OR ACHIEVEMENTS TO BE MATERIALLY DIFFERENT FROM ANY FUTURE RESULTS, LEVELS OF ACTIVITY, PERFORMANCE OR ACHIEVEMENTS EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED BY THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. THESE RISKS AND OTHER FACTORS INCLUDE, AMONG OTHERS, THOSE LISTED UNDER “FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS” AND “RISK FACTORS” AND THOSE INCLUDED ELSEWHERE IN THIS REPORT.

Overview

We intend for this discussion to provide information that will assist in understanding our financial statements, the changes in certain key items in those financial statements, and the primary factors that accounted for those changes, as well as how certain accounting principles affect our financial statements. This discussion should be read in conjunction with our financial statements and accompanying notes for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, included elsewhere in this report.

We are currently a producer of Comic Conventions across the United States that celebrate movies, television shows, video games, technology, toys, social networking/gaming platforms, comic books and graphic novels. Our Comic Conventions provide entertainment for fans of the pop culture genre, as well as sales, marketing, promotions, public relations, advertising and sponsorship opportunities for entertainment companies, toy companies, gaming companies, publishing companies, marketers, corporate sponsors, and retailers which wish to reach our audience.

Plan of Operation

At present, the Company is engaged primarily in the live event business and derives income mainly from: (i) the production of Comic Conventions, which involves the sales of admissions and exhibitor booth space, and (ii) sale of sponsorships and advertising. The Company, while taking steps to enhance its live events operations, is steadily moving into the space of being a hyphenate live event media company.

We plan on continuing to enhance our Comic Conventions by featuring new and exciting exhibitors and high-profile celebrities. Further, we are carefully researching and identifying new geographic markets for our Comic Convention. During the second half of 2017 we embarked on an aggressive review of the costs expended at each of our Conventions. As the result of this review, we have identified many operating efficiencies which have enabled us to operate our Conventions at a production cost (aside from talent) that is approximately 33.3% lower than previous operations. The savings on logistics and production have enabled us to consistently produce shows that are favorably contributing to the net operating margin.

In December 2017 the Company embarked on a cost containment strategy. The implementation of that strategy, which has been in place since January 2018 will reduce corporate overhead from an approximate $4.9 million in 2017 to approximately $2.7 million in 2018. The efficiencies in Convention production in addition to the savings achieved in corporate overhead should have a materially positive impact on the going forward results.

Concurrently with the Company’s efforts in the Comic Convention business, the Company is selectively producing and branding compelling content and reaching consumers via social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, as well as the Company’s website, www.wizardworld.com. The Company hopes to utilize its digital offerings to bolster its Comic Convention business.

We currently expect to produce 16 live events during 2018, although that number of conventions may change as we evaluate locations and venues. Among the shows being produced in 2018 are shows in new markets, including Boise, Winston Salem, and Montgomery.

The Company has recently announced an alignment with Sony Pictures Entertainment. Pursuant to that alignment the Company is exploring a number of initiatives, which may include: (i) the development of intellectual property for the creation of motion picture and television content. The first session for the reception of such content will be in Portland in April 2018, (ii) the production of an exclusive event on the Sony Pictures lot in June of 2019 (iii) the entry into the immersive entertainment space, (iv) the launch of a touring event in Asia. These activities, in addition to others will broaden the scope of the Company’s portfolio of revenue generating activities.

Additionally, the Company has entered into an agreement to program two channels in China on the CN Live platform. The Company has entered into a programming agreement with Associated Television International and is proceeding with its plans to launch the Chinese networks. In addition to the agreement with Associated Television International, the Company is discussing the acquisition of content with other third-party suppliers.

Results of Operations

Summary of Statements of Operations for the Year Ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:

Convention Revenue

Convention revenue was $14,983,033 for the year ended December 31, 2017, as compared to $21,994,433 for the comparable period ended December 31, 2016, a decrease of $7,011,400. The decrease in convention revenue is primarily attributable to running less shows than the prior year. In addition, the Company increased admission prices and the overall size and scope of each event. The Company ran fourteen events during the year ended December 31, 2017, as compared to sixteen events during the comparable year ended December 31, 2016. Average revenue generated per event in 2017 was $1,070,217 as compared to $1,374,652 during 2016.

ConBox Revenue

ConBox revenue was $84,580 for the year ended December 31, 2017, as compared to $707,101 for the comparable year ended December 31, 2016, a decrease of $622,521. The Company ceased ConBox operations in 2017 resulting in the decrease.

Gross Profit

Gross profit percentage for the convention segment decreased from a gross profit of 31% during the year ended December 31, 2016, to a gross profit of 0.1% during the year ended December 31, 2017. The Company produced fourteen events during the year ended December 31, 2017, as compared to sixteen events during the comparable year ended December 31, 2016. The gross profit percentage decrease was attributable to decreased revenue at each show and higher than acceptable production costs.

Gross profit percentage for the ConBox segment increased from a gross deficit of 46% during the year ended December 31, 2016, to a gross profit of 5% during the year ended December 31, 2017. The gross profit percentage increase was attributable to an overall decrease in fulfillment costs. The Company ceased ConBox operations in 2017.

Operating Expenses

Operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2017, was $5,346,924, as compared to $ 7,716,789 for the year ended December 31, 2016. The change is attributable to a decrease in employee compensation and general and administrative expenses offset by a slight increase in consulting expenses. The $1,450,062 decrease in compensation is primarily attributable to a decline in both headcount and officer compensation. General and administrative expenses decreased by $943,383 since the prior year comparative period due to a decrease in service fees, travel and web development.

Loss from Operations

Loss from operations for the year ended December 31, 2017, was $5,337,608 as compared to a loss from operations of $1,182,246 for the year ended December 31, 2016. The loss was primarily attributable to issues related to production costs, which were excessive versus revenue and corporate overhead that could not be sustained. The Company has addressed both issues. Additionally, the Company has augmented its marketing and talent departments to increase attendance at its conventions. During the 4^th Quarter of 2017 the Company dramatically reduced its corporate overhead expenses, reducing the projected Corporate Operating budget in 2018 to $2,700,000 compared with $4,900,000 in 2017. This reduction, combined with the operating efficiency in producing the shows should materially improve the operating results in 2018.

Other Expenses

Other expenses for the year ended December 31, 2017, was $395,887, as compared to $325,857 for the year ended December 31, 2016. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company recorded interest of expense of $395,102 related to the convertible note and corresponding debt discount compared to $26,481 during the year ended December 31, 2016. The Company recorded a loss of $262,500 during the year ended December 31, 2016 on the CONtv joint venture with Cinedigm compared to a loss of $0 during the year ended December 31, 2017. For the year ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recorded a loss of $785 and $36,876, respectively, upon the disposal of equipment.

Net Loss Attributable to Common Stockholder

Net loss attributable to common stockholder for the year ended December 31, 2017, was $5,732,814 or loss per basic share of $0.08, compared to a net loss of $1,575,361 or loss per basic share of $0.03, for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Inflation did not have a material impact on the Company’s operations for the applicable period. Other than the foregoing, management knows of no trends, demands, or uncertainties that are reasonably likely to have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The following table summarizes total current assets, liabilities and working capital at December 31, 2017 compared to December 31, 2016:

At December 31, 2017, we had a working capital deficit of $3,541,032, as compared to working capital of $2,862,317, at December 31, 2016, a decrease of $6,403,348. The change in working capital is primarily attributable to a decrease in cash and cash equivalents, prepaid expenses and an increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses, unearned revenue and convertible promissory notes. These were offset by an increase in accounts receivable. 

Net used in operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, was $2,533,595 and $2,488,009, respectively. The net loss for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, was $5,733,495 and $1,508,103, respectively.

Going Concern Analysis

The Company had a net loss of $5,733,495 and $1,508,103 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. As of December 31, 2017, we had cash and working capital deficit of $1,769,550 and $3,541,032, respectively. We have evaluated the significance of these conditions in relation to our ability to meet our obligations, which had previously raised doubts about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern through March 2019. However, the Company believes that the effects of its cost savings efforts with regard to corporate overhead and show production expenses commenced in 2017 are not reflected in the above results, but should be evident in 2018.

In addition to its cost containment strategies, the Company has announced three agreements intended to expand its future revenues: 1) an alignment with Sony Pictures Entertainment to explore a number of strategic initiatives; 2) an agreement to program a linear advertising Supported channel and an SVOD Channel in China on the CN Live platform; and, 3) a programming agreement with Associated Television International to launch the Chinese networks.

Additionally, if necessary, management believes that both related parties (management and members of the Board of Directors of the Company) and potential external sources of debt and/or equity financing may be obtained based on management’s history of being able to raise capital from both internal and external sources coupled with current favorable market conditions. Therefore, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern.

The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments to reflect the possible future effects on the recoverability and classification of assets or the amounts and classification of liabilities that may result from the matters discussed herein. While the Company believes in the viability of management’s strategy to generate sufficient revenue, control costs and the ability to raise additional funds if necessary, there can be no assurances to that effect. The Company’s ability to continue as a going concern is dependent upon the ability to further implement the business plan, generate sufficient revenues and to control operating expenses.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

As of December 31, 2017, the Company had no off-balance sheet arrangements.

Critical Accounting Policies

We believe that the following accounting policies are the most critical to aid you in fully understanding and evaluating this “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation.”

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date(s) of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period(s). Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment is stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization is computed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets, varying from 3 to 5 years or, when applicable, the life of the lease, whichever is shorter.

The impairment charges, if any, are included in operating expenses in the accompanying statements of operations.

Income Taxes

The Company accounts for income taxes under Section 740-10-30 of the FASB ASC. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined based upon differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance to the extent management concludes it is more likely than not that the assets will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the statements of operations in the period that includes the enactment date.

The Company adopted section 740-10-25 of the FASB ASC (“Section 740-10-25”). Section 740-10-25 addresses the determination of whether tax benefits claimed or expected to be claimed on a tax return should be recorded in the financial statements. Under Section 740-10-25, the Company may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position should be measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than fifty percent (50%) likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Section 740-10-25 also provides guidance on de-recognition, classification, interest and penalties on income taxes, accounting in interim periods and requires increased disclosures.

The estimated future tax effects of temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities are reported in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, as well as tax credit carry-backs and carryforwards. The Company periodically reviews the recoverability of deferred tax assets recorded on its consolidated balance sheets and provides valuation allowances as management deems necessary.

Management makes judgments as to the interpretation of the tax laws that might be challenged upon an audit and cause changes to previous estimates of tax liability. In addition, the Company operates within multiple taxing jurisdictions and is subject to audit in these jurisdictions. In management’s opinion, adequate provisions for income taxes have been made for all years. If actual taxable income by tax jurisdiction varies from estimates, additional allowances or reversals of reserves may be necessary.

Revenue Recognition

The Company follows Paragraph 605-10-S99-1 of the FASB ASC for revenue recognition. The Company will recognize revenue when it is realized or realizable and earned. The Company considers revenue realized or realizable and earned when all of the following criteria are met: (i) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (ii) the product has been shipped or the services have been rendered to the customer, (iii) the sales price is fixed or determinable, and (iv) collectability is reasonably assured.

Unearned convention revenue is deposits received for conventions that have not yet taken place, which are fully or partially refundable depending upon the terms and conditions of the agreements.

Unearned ConBox revenue is non-refundable up-front payments for products. These payments are initially deferred and subsequently recognized over the subscription period, typically three months, and upon shipment of the product. The Company ceased ConBox operations in 2017.

The Company recognizes cost of revenues in the period in which the revenues was earned. In the event the Company incurs cost of revenues for conventions that are yet to occur, the Company records such amounts as prepaid expenses and such prepaid expenses are expensed during the period the convention takes place.

Equity–based compensation

The Company recognizes compensation expense for all equity–based payments in accordance with ASC 718 “Compensation – Stock Compensation”. Under fair value recognition provisions, the Company recognizes equity–based compensation net of an estimated forfeiture rate and recognizes compensation cost only for those shares expected to vest over the requisite service period of the award.

Restricted stock awards are granted at the discretion of the Company. These awards are restricted as to the transfer of ownership and generally vest over the requisite service periods, typically over a four-year period (vesting on a straight–line basis). The fair value of a stock award is equal to the fair market value of a share of Company stock on the grant date.

The fair value of option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black–Scholes option valuation model. The Black–Scholes option valuation model requires the development of assumptions that are input into the model. These assumptions are the expected stock volatility, the risk–free interest rate, the expected life of the option, the dividend yield on the underlying stock and the expected forfeiture rate. Expected volatility is calculated based on the historical volatility of the Company’s Common stock over the expected option life and other appropriate factors. Risk–free interest rates are calculated based on continuously compounded risk–free rates for the appropriate term. The dividend yield is assumed to be zero as the Company has never paid or declared any cash dividends on our Common stock and does not intend to pay dividends on our Common stock in the foreseeable future. The expected forfeiture rate is estimated based on historical experience.

Determining the appropriate fair value model and calculating the fair value of equity–based payment awards requires the input of the subjective assumptions described above. The assumptions used in calculating the fair value of equity–based payment awards represent management’s best estimates, which involve inherent uncertainties and the application of management’s judgment. As a result, if factors change and the Company uses different assumptions, our equity–based compensation could be materially different in the future. In addition, the Company is required to estimate the expected forfeiture rate and recognize expense only for those shares expected to vest. If our actual forfeiture rate is materially different from our estimate, the equity–based compensation could be significantly different from what the Company has recorded in the current period.

The Company accounts for share–based payments granted to non–employees in accordance with ASC 505-40, “Equity Based Payments to Non–Employees”. The Company determines the fair value of the stock–based payment as either the fair value of the consideration received or the fair value of the equity instruments issued, whichever is more reliably measurable. If the fair value of the equity instruments issued is used, it is measured using the stock price and other measurement assumptions as of the earlier of either (1) the date at which a commitment for performance by the counterparty to earn the equity instruments is reached, or (2) the date at which the counterparty’s performance is complete. The fair value of the equity instruments is re-measured each reporting period over the requisite service period.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

We follow Paragraph 825-10-50-10 of the FASB ASC for disclosures about fair value of our financial instruments and paragraph 820-10-35-37 of the FASB ASC (“Paragraph 820-10-35-37”) to measure the fair value of our financial instruments. Paragraph 820-10-35-37 establishes a framework for measuring fair value in GAAP and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. To increase consistency and comparability in fair value measurements and related disclosures, Paragraph 820-10-35-37 establishes a fair value hierarchy which prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three (3) broad levels. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs. The three (3) levels of fair value hierarchy defined by Paragraph 820-10-35-37 are described below:

Financial assets are considered Level 3 when their fair values are determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies or similar techniques and at least one significant model assumption or input is unobservable.

The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs. If the inputs used to measure the financial assets and liabilities fall within more than one level described above, the categorization is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement of the instrument.

The carrying amount of the Company’s assets and liabilities, such as cash, accounts receivable, inventory, prepaid expenses, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, and unearned revenue approximate their fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In July 2015, the FASB issued the ASU No. 2015-11 “Inventory (Topic 330): Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory” (“ASU 2015-11”). The amendments in this ASU do not apply to inventory that is measured using last-in, first-out (LIFO) or the retail inventory method. The amendments apply to all other inventory, which includes inventory that is measured using first-in, first-out (FIFO) or average cost. An entity should measure inventory within the scope of this ASU at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. Subsequent measurement is unchanged for inventory measured using LIFO or the retail inventory method. For public business entities, the amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company adopted the standard during the year ended December 31, 2017 and the adoption did not have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements and disclosures.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842).” Under ASU 2016-02, lessees will be required to recognize, for all leases of 12 months or more, a liability to make lease payments and a right-of-use asset representing the right to use the underlying asset for the lease term. Additionally, the guidance requires improved disclosures to help users of financial statements better understand the nature of an entity’s leasing activities. This ASU is effective for public reporting companies for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted, and must be adopted using a modified retrospective approach. The Company is in the process of evaluating the effect of the new guidance on its consolidated financial statements and disclosures.

In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-10, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers: Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing (Topic 606)”. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-08, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers: Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross verses Net) (Topic 606)”. These amendments provide additional clarification and implementation guidance on the previously issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”. The amendments in ASU 2016-10 provide clarifying guidance on materiality of performance obligations; evaluating distinct performance obligations; treatment of shipping and handling costs; and determining whether an entity’s promise to grant a license provides a customer with either a right to use an entity’s intellectual property or a right to access an entity’s intellectual property. The amendments in ASU 2016-08 clarify how an entity should identify the specified good or service for the principal versus agent evaluation and how it should apply the control principle to certain types of arrangements. The adoption of ASU 2016-10 and ASU 2016-08 is to coincide with an entity’s adoption of ASU 2014-09, which the Company intends to adopt for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company is in the process of evaluating the standard and does not expect the adoption will have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements and disclosures.

In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09, “Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718)”. The FASB issued this update to improve the accounting for employee share-based payments and affect all organizations that issue share-based payment awards to their employees. Several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment award transactions are simplified, including: (a) income tax consequences; (b) classification of awards as either equity or liabilities; and (c) classification on the statement of cash flows. The updated guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption of the update is permitted. The Company adopted the standard during the year ended December 31, 2017 and the adoption did not have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements and disclosures.

In May 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-12, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients”, which narrowly amended the revenue recognition guidance regarding collectability, noncash consideration, presentation of sales tax and transition and is effective during the same period as ASU 2014-09. The Company is currently evaluating the standard and does not expect the adoption will have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements and disclosures.

In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments” (“ASU 2016-15”). ASU 2016-15 will make eight targeted changes to how cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-15 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. The new standard will require adoption on a retrospective basis unless it is impracticable to apply, in which case it would be required to apply the amendments prospectively as of the earliest date practicable. The Company is currently in the process of evaluating the impact of ASU 2016-15 on its consolidated financial statements.

In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other than Inventory”, which eliminates the exception that prohibits the recognition of current and deferred income tax effects for intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory until the asset has been sold to an outside party. The updated guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption of the update is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard.

In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230)”, requiring that the statement of cash flows explain the change in the total cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim reporting periods therein, beginning after December 15, 2017 with early adoption permitted. The provisions of this guidance are to be applied using a retrospective approach which requires application of the guidance for all periods presented. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard.

In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-09, “Compensation—Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting,” which provides guidance about which changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award require an entity to apply modification accounting in Topic 718. This standard is required to be adopted in the first quarter of 2018. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

In July 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-11, “Earnings Per Share (Topic 260), Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity (Topic 480) and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): I. Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Down Round Features; II. Replacement of the Indefinite Deferral for Mandatorily Redeemable Financial Instruments of Certain Nonpublic Entities and Certain Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests with a Scope Exception”. Part I of this update addresses the complexity of accounting for certain financial instruments with down round features. Down round features are features of certain equity-linked instruments (or embedded features) that result in the strike price being reduced on the basis of the pricing of future equity offerings. Current accounting guidance creates cost and complexity for entities that issue financial instruments (such as warrants and convertible instruments) with down round features that require fair value measurement of the entire instrument or conversion option. Part II of this update addresses the difficulty of navigating Topic 480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity, because of the existence of extensive pending content in the FASB Accounting Standards Codification. This pending content is the result of the indefinite deferral of accounting requirements about mandatorily redeemable financial instruments of certain nonpublic entities and certain mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests. The amendments in Part II of this update do not have an accounting effect. This ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company early adopted the ASU 2017-11 in the three months ending December 31, 2017.

In September 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2017-13, Revenue Recognition (Topic 605), Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), Leases (Topic 840), and Leases (Topic 842). The new standard, among other things, provides additional implementation guidance with respect to Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 606 and ASC Topic 842. ASU 2017-03 is effective for annual and interim fiscal reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard but does not expect it to have a material impact on its implementation strategies or its consolidated financial statements upon adoption.

Management made the decision to early adopt ASU 2017-11, which required retrospective adjustment causing the 2016 audited financial statements to be restated. See Footnote 3 to the Financial Statements. The comparative financial information disclosed in the Form 10-K including the audited 2016 financial statements represent the restated amounts.

Other than the early adoption of ASU 2017-11, Management does not believe that any recently issued, but not yet effective accounting pronouncements, if adopted, would have a material effect on the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk

We have limited exposure to market risks from instruments that may impact the Balance Sheets, Statements of Operations, and Statements of Cash Flows. Such exposure is due primarily to changing interest rates.

The primary objective for our investment activities is to preserve principal while maximizing yields without significantly increasing risk. This is accomplished by investing excess cash in highly liquid debt and equity investments of highly rated entities which are classified as trading securities.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We have no significant known off balance sheet arrangements.

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

We do not hold any derivative instruments and do not engage in any hedging activities.

Item 8. Financial Statements.

Our consolidated financial statements are contained in pages F-1 through F-28 which appear at the end of this Annual Report.

Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

Effective on December 19, 2017, the Board dismissed Rosenberg Rich Baker Berman & Company (“RRBB”), as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm.

RRBB’s report on the financial statements for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, contained no adverse opinion or disclaimer of opinion, and were not qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or accounting principle. During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, and in the subsequent interim periods through December 19, 2017, the date of dismissal of RRBB, there were no disagreements with RRBB on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure or auditing scope or procedure, which disagreements, if not resolved to the satisfaction of RRBB, would have caused them to make reference to the subject matter of the disagreements in its reports on the financial statements for such year. During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, and in the subsequent interim period through December 19, 2017, the date of dismissal of RRBB, there were no reportable events as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K.

Effective on December 26, 2017, the Board approved the engagement of Maughan Sullivan LLC (“Maughan”), as the Company’s new independent registered public accounting firm.

During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016, and the subsequent interim period prior to the engagement of Maughan, the Company has not consulted Maughan regarding (i) the application of accounting principles to any specified transaction, either completed or proposed; (ii) the type of audit opinion that might be rendered on the Company’s financial statements, and either a written report was provided to the registrant or oral advice was provided that the new accountant concluded was an important factor considered by the registrant in reaching a decision as to the accounting, auditing or financial reporting issue; or (iii) any matter that was either the subject of a disagreement (as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v)) or a reportable event (as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v)).

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.

(a) EVALUATION OF DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Pursuant to Rule 13a- 15(b) under the Exchange Act, the Company carried out an evaluation, with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Principal Executive Officer (“PEO”) and Principal Financial Officer (“PFO”), of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined under Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon that evaluation, the Company’s PEO and PFO concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were not effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that the Company files or submits under the Exchange Act, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including the Company’s PEO and PFO, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

(b) MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as required under applicable United States securities regulatory requirements. Internal control over financial reporting is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) promulgated under the Exchange Act as a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the Company’s chief executive and chief financial officers and effected by the Board, management and other personnel, 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 and includes those policies and procedures that:

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect all misstatements. A system of internal controls can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met, no matter how well the system is conceived or operated. 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 or procedures may deteriorate.

Our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017. In making this assessment, our management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) in 2013 in Internal Control Integrated Framework. Based on that evaluation under this framework, our management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was not effective because of the following material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting.

This annual report does not include an attestation report of our independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting because we are a “smaller reporting company.” Our management’s report was not subject to attestation by our independent registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the SEC that permit us to provide only management’s report in this annual report.

(c) CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROLS OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

The Company is committed to improving financial organization. As part of this commitment, management and the Board performed an extensive review of the Company’s policies and procedures as it relates to financial reporting and human resources in an effort to mitigate future risks of potential misstatements. The former Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Accounting Officer declined to participate in such review procedures. The Company will utilize the review findings to further develop, implement and document sound internal controls and procedures surrounding the financial reporting and human resource processes.

Item 9B. Other Information.

Not applicable.

PART III

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.

The information required by this Item is expected to be filed by amendment to this 10-K filing prior to April 30, 2018, which is 120 days after the close of our fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 11. Executive Compensation.

The information required by this Item is expected to be filed by amendment to this 10-K filing prior to April 30, 2018, which is 120 days after the close of our fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.

The information required by this Item is expected to be filed by amendment to this 10-K filing prior to April 30, 2018, which is 120 days after the close of our fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.

The information required by this Item is expected to be filed by amendment to this 10-K filing prior to April 30, 2018, which is 120 days after the close of our fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

The information required by this Item is expected to be filed by amendment to this 10-K filing prior to April 30, 2018, which is 120 days after the close of our fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, and is incorporated herein by reference.

PART IV

Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules.

* filed herewith

Item 16. Form 10-K Summary.

None.  

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Wizard World, Inc.

December 31, 2017

Index to the Consolidated Financial Statements

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of Wizard World, Inc.:

Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Wizard World, Inc. (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2017, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Change in Accounting Principle

As discussed in Note 3 to the financial statements, the Company has changed its method of accounting for Derivatives (Topic 815) in the fourth quarter of 2017 and the retrospective application resulting in a restatement of the 2016 audited financial statements due to the early adoption of ASU 2017-11, “Earnings Per Share (Topic 260), Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity (Topic 480) and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): I. Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Down Round Features; II. Replacement of the Indefinite Deferral for Mandatorily Redeemable Financial Instruments of Certain Nonpublic Entities and Certain Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests with a Scope Exception”.

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/ MaughanSullivan LLC

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2017.

Manchester, VT

April 2, 2018

To the Board of Directors and
Stockholders of Wizard World, Inc.

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements

We have audited, before the effects of the adjustments to retrospectively apply the change in accounting described in Note 3, the consolidated balance sheet of Wizard World, Inc. (the Company) as of December 31, 2016, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the consolidated financial statements). In our opinion, the 2016 consolidated financial statements, before the effects of the adjustments to retrospectively apply the change in accounting described in Note 3, present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2016, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We were not engaged to audit, review, or apply any procedures to the adjustments to retrospectively apply the change in accounting described in Note 3 and, accordingly, we do not express an opinion or any other form of assurance about whether such adjustments are appropriate and have been properly applied. Those adjustments were audited by Maughan Sullivan LLC. (The 2016 consolidated financial statements before the effects of the adjustments discussed in Note 3 are not presented herein.)

Basis for Opinion

These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s consolidated financial statements based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Wizard World, Inc.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements

Wizard World, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Operations

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements

Wizard World, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2017 and 2016