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EX-32.1 - EXHIBIT 32.1 - KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.v326447_ex32-1.htm
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EX-32.2 - EXHIBIT 32.2 - KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.v326447_ex32-2.htm
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EXCEL - IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT - KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.Financial_Report.xls

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

 

FORM 10-Q

 

 

 

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

 

For the quarterly period ended:

September 30, 2012

 

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

 

For the transition period from: _____________ to _____________

 

 

  

KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

  

Delaware   001-15819   13-3883101
(State or other jurisdiction   (Commission   (I.R.S. Employer
of incorporation)   File Number)   Identification No.)
         
   

15 Huangpu Science and Technology Park

Jiang’an District

Wuhan, Hubei Province, PRC 430023

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

  Reed Smith
11/12/12
         
   

(011) 86 27 65694977

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

   

  

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

x  Yes  ¨  No

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

 

x Yes   ¨ No

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

As of November 12, 2012, there were 54,521,140 shares of common stock outstanding, par value $0.001.

 

 

  

 
 

 

QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

      Page Number  
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION   4  
         
Item 1. Financial Statements   4  
         
  Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 (Unaudited)   4  
         
  Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income for the Three and Nine months Ended September 30, 2012 and  2011 (Unaudited)   5  
         
  Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Nine months Ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 (Unaudited)   6  
         
  Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)   7  
         
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations   16  
         
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk   22  
         
Item 4. Controls and Procedures   24  
         
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION   24  
         
Item 1. Legal Proceedings   24  
         
Item 1A. Risk Factors   24  
         
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds   27  
         
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities   27  
         
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures   27  
         
Item 5. Other Information   27  
         
Item 6. Exhibits   28  
         
Signatures   29  

 

2
 

 

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT FOR PURPOSES OF THE “SAFE HARBOR” STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995

 

Statements in this report that are not historical facts or information are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “estimate,” “project,” “forecast,” “plan,” “believe,” “may,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “planned,” “potential,” “can,” “expectation” and similar expressions, or the negative of those expressions, may identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on management’s reasonable current assumptions and expectations. Such forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievement to be materially different from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, and there can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from management’s expectations. Such factors include, among others, the following:

 

·changes in the market price of gold;
·our ability to implement the key initiatives of, and realize the gross and operating margins and projected benefits (in the amounts and time schedules we expect) from, our business strategy;
·non-performance of suppliers of their sale commitments and customers of their purchase commitments;
·non-performance of third-party service providers;
·adverse conditions in the industries in which our customers operate, including a general economic downturn , a recession globally, or sudden disruption in business conditions, and our ability to withstand an economic downturn, recession, cost inflation, competitive or other market pressures, or conditions;
·the effect of political, economic, legal, tax and regulatory risks imposed on us, including foreign exchange or other restrictions, adoption, interpretation and enforcement of foreign laws including any changes thereto, as well as reviews and investigations by government regulators that have occurred or may occur from time to time, including, for example, local regulatory scrutiny in China;
·our ability to manage growth;
·our ability to successfully identify new business opportunities and identify and analyze acquisition candidates, secure financing on favorable terms and negotiate and consummate acquisitions as well as to successfully manage any acquired business;
·our ability to integrate acquired businesses;
·the effect of economic factors, including inflation and fluctuations in interest rates and currency exchange rates, foreign exchange restrictions and the potential effect of such factors on our business, results of operations and financial condition;
·our ability to retain and attract senior management and other key employees;
·any internal investigations and compliance reviews of Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and related U.S. and foreign law matters in China and additional countries, as well as any disruption or adverse consequences resulting from such investigations, reviews, related actions or litigation;
·changes in PRC or U.S. tax laws;
·increased levels of competition, and competitive uncertainties in our markets, including competition from companies in the gold jewelry industry in the PRC, some of which are larger than we are and have greater resources;
·the impact of the seasonal nature of our business, adverse effect of rising energy, commodity and raw material prices, changes in market trends, purchasing habits of our consumers and changes in consumer preferences;
·our ability to protect our intellectual property rights;
·the risk of an adverse outcome in any material pending and future litigations;
·our ratings, our access to cash and financing and ability to secure financing at attractive rates;
·the success of our research and development activities;
·our ability to comply with environmental laws and regulations; and
·other risks, including those described in the “Risk Factors” discussion of this periodic report and in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

We undertake no obligation to update any such forward looking statement, except as required by law.

 

3
 

 

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.  Financial Statements

 

KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(IN US DOLLARS)

(UNAUDITED)

 

   September 30,   December 31, 
   2012   2011 
         
ASSETS        
         
CURRENT ASSETS          
Cash and cash equivalents  $1,625,205   $8,810,173 
Accounts receivable   379,164    896,949 
Inventories   142,255,205    108,088,420 
Other current assets and prepaid expenses   69,694    72,333 
Value added tax recoverable   7,788,203    4,750,847 
Total Current Assets   152,117,471    122,618,722 
           
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET   12,132,635    12,942,902 
           
OTHER ASSETS          
Other assets   153,587    153,102 
Intangible assets, net   508,153    515,543 
Total other assets   661,740    668,645 
TOTAL ASSETS  $164,911,846   $136,230,269 
           
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY          
           
CURRENT LIABILITIES          
Short term loans  $6,363,651   $6,343,578 
Other payables and accrued expenses   966,177    870,454 
Income tax payable   3,040,105    1,451,929 
Other taxes payable   477,960    562,027 
Total Current Liabilities   10,847,893    9,227,988 
           
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES   -    - 
           
EQUITY          
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value, 500,000 shares authorized, none issued or outstanding as of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011   -    - 
Common stock $0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 53,671,140 and 53,107,343 shares issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011   53,671    53,108 
Additional paid-in capital   56,774,801    55,728,009 
Retained earnings          
Unappropriated   85,197,660    59,936,120 
Appropriated   967,543    967,543 
Accumulated other comprehensive income   11,070,278    10,317,501 
Total Equity   154,063,953    127,002,281 
           
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY  $164,911,846   $136,230,269 

 

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

 

4
 

 

KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(IN US DOLLARS)

(UNAUDITED)

 

   For the three months ended September 30,   For the nine months ended September 30, 
   2012   2011   2012   2011 
                 
NET SALES  $220,836,949   $210,710,516   $714,290,183   $620,533,358 
                     
COST OF SALES                    
Cost of sales   (207,868,634)   (196,453,806)   (674,193,265)   (584,246,090)
Depreciation   (296,524)   (265,488)   (890,419)   (872,125)
Total cost of sales   (208,165,158)   (196,719,294)   (675,083,684)   (585,118,215)
                     
GROSS PROFIT   12,671,791    13,991,222    39,206,499    35,415,143 
                     
OPERATING EXPENSES                    
Selling, general and administrative expenses   756,674    789,820    3,165,658    2,550,526 
Stock compensation expenses   379,450    62,500    1,047,355    257,500 
Depreciation   36,710    66,214    104,584    98,325 
Amortization   2,983    3,000    8,958    8,781 
Total Operating Expenses   1,175,817    921,534    4,326,555    2,915,133 
                     
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS   11,495,974    13,069,689    34,879,944    32,500,010 
                     
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSES)        -           
Other Income   -    227    -    18,234 
Other Expense   -    5,758    (1,559)   5,758 
Interest expense   (113,298)   -    (336,212)   (120,811)
Total Other Expenses, net   (113,298)   5,985    (337,771)   (96,819)
                     
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS BEFORE TAXES   11,382,676    13,075,674    34,542,173    32,403,192 
                     
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES   (3,016,059)   (3,353,879)   (9,280,633)   (8,347,773)
                     
NET INCOME  $8,366,617   $9,721,795   $25,261,540   $24,055,419 
Less: net income attribute to the noncontrolling interest   -    (406,584)   -    (1,039,754)
                     
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO COMMON STOCKHOLDERS  $8,366,617   $9,315,211   $25,261,540   $23,015,665 
                     
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME                    
Total foreign currency translation gains   1,700,761    1,288,912    752,777    3,333,579 
Less: foreign currency translation gains attributable to noncontrolling interest   -    (4,708)   -    (49,612)
Foreign currency translation gains attributable to common stockholders   1,700,761    1,284,204    752,777    3,283,967 
                     
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME  $10,067,377   $10,599,415   $26,014,317   $26,299,632 
                     
Earnings per share                    
Basic  $0.16    0.19   $0.47   $0.47 
Diluted  $0.15    0.18   $0.47   $0.46 
Weighted average number of shares                    
Basic   53,578,218    49,998,706    53,286,072    49,391,647 
Diluted   54,246,563    50,744,359    54,200,552    50,480,880 

 

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

 

5
 

 

KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

(IN US DOLLARS)

(UNAUDITED)

 

   For the Nine months ended September 30, 
   2012   2011 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES          
Net income  $25,261,540   $24,055,419 
Adjusted to reconcile net income to cash used in operating activities:          
Depreciation   995,002    970,450 
Amortization of intangible assets   8,958    8,781 
Share based compensation   1,047,355    257,500 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities          
(Increase) decrease in:          
Accounts receivable   517,022    1,010,099 
Inventories   (33,590,814)   (46,100,293)
Other current assets and prepaid expenses   15,269    51,215 
Value added tax recoverable   (3,001,419)   (1,525,536)
Increase (decrease) in:          
Other payables and accrued expenses   81,959    (740,083)
Income tax payable   1,572,629    1,056,705 
Other taxes payable   (85,251)   (494,451)
Net cash used in operating activities   (7,177,750)   (21,450,194)
           
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES          
Purchase of property and equipment   (149,666)   (64,723)
Net cash used in investing activities   (149,666)   (64,723)
           
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES          
Deferred offering costs   -    666,364 
Repayments of bank loans   -    (6,194,845)
Proceeds from related party loan   -    2,574,082 
Repayments of related party loan   -    (2,168,196)
Net proceeds from stock issuance in public offering   -    20,144,255 
Net proceeds from exercise of warrants   -    49,800 
Net cash provided by financing activities   -    15,071,460 
           
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATES ON CASH & CASH EQUIVALENTS   142,448    526,517 
           
NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS   (7,184,968)   (5,916,940)
           
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD   8,810,173    9,151,536 
           
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD  $1,625,205   $3,234,596 
           
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION          
           
Cash paid for interest expense  $354,686   $121,933 
Cash paid for income tax  $7,708,004   $7,291,068 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated Financial Statements

 

6
 

 

KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(UNAUDITED)

 

NOTE 1 — BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Kingold Jewelry, Inc. (“Kingold” or the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) for interim financial information pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary to make the financial statements not misleading have been included. Operating results for the interim period ended September 30, 2012 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2012. The information included in this Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with Management’s Discussion and Analysis, and the financial statements and notes thereto included in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011, filed with the SEC on March 26, 2012.

 

NOTE 2 — SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Principles of Consolidation

 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of Kingold, its wholly owned subsidiaries, Dragon Lead Group Limited (“Dragon Lead”) and Wuhan Vogue-Show Jewelry Co., Inc. (“Wuhan Vogue-Show”) and Wuhan Kingold Jewelry Co., Inc. (“Wuhan Kingold”), its 100% contractually controlled affiliate. All significant inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

On June 30, 2009, Vogue-Show entered into a series of agreements with Wuhan Kingold and shareholders holding 95.83% of the outstanding equity of Wuhan Kingold under which Wuhan Kingold agreed to pay 95.83% of its after-tax profits to Vogue-Show and shareholders owning 95.83% of Wuhan Kingold’s shares have pledged their and delegated their voting power in Wuhan Kingold to Vogue-Show. Such share pledge is registered with the PRC Administration for Industry and Commerce. These agreements were subsequently amended on October 20, 2011 when the minority stockholder holding 4.17% of the equity of Wuhan Kingold became a party to the applicable variable interest entity (“VIE”) agreements. Following execution of the amendments, shareholders holding 100% of the outstanding equity of Wuhan Kingold were parties to the agreements such that Wuhan Kingold has agreed to pay 100% of its after-tax profits to Vogue-Show and shareholders owning 100% of Wuhan Kingold’s shares have pledged their and delegated their voting power in Wuhan Kingold to Vogue-Show.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements as well as the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates required to be made by management include, but are not limited to, useful lives of property, plant and equipment, intangible assets, the recoverability of long-lived assets and the valuation of accounts receivable, deferred tax assets, inventories and stock options. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value, cost being calculated on the weighted average basis. The cost of inventories comprises all costs of purchases, costs of fixed and variable production overhead and other costs incurred in bringing the inventories to their present location and condition. Kingold provides inventory allowances based on excess and obsolete inventories determined principally by customer demand.

 

Property and equipment

 

Property and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Expenditures for additions, major renewals and betterments are capitalized, and expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred.

 

Depreciation is provided on a straight-line basis, less estimated residual value, over an asset’s estimated useful life.

 

7
 

 

KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(UNAUDITED)

 

Long-lived assets

 

Kingold accounts for long-lived assets under the FASB Codification Topic 360 (ASC Topic 360) "Accounting for Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" and "Accounting for Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets". Finite-lived assets and intangibles are also reviewed for impairment test when circumstance requires it. For purposes of evaluating the recoverability of long-lived assets, when undiscounted future cash flows will not be sufficient to recover an asset's carrying amount, the asset is written down to its fair value. The long-lived assets of the Company, which are subject to evaluation, consist primarily of property, plant and equipment and land use rights. For the periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 the Company has not recognized any allowances for impairment.

 

Fair value of financial instruments

 

ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures clarifies the definition of fair value, prescribes methods for measuring fair value, and establishes a fair value hierarchy to classify the inputs used in measuring fair value as follows:

 

Level 1-Observable inputs such as unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities available at the measurement date.

 

Level 2-Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other then quoted prices that are observable, and inputs derived from or corroborated by observable market data.

 

Level 3-Inputs are unobservable inputs which reflect management’s assumptions based on the best available information.

 

The carrying value of accounts receivable, other current assets and prepaid expenses, short term loans, other payables and accrued expenses approximate their fair values because of the short-term nature of these instruments. Kingold is of the opinion that we are not exposed to significant interest or credit risks arising from these financial instruments.

 

Revenue recognition

 

Net sales are primarily composed of sales of branded products to wholesale and retail customers, as well as fees generated from customized production. In customized production, a customer supplies Kingold with the raw materials and Kingold creates products per their instructions, whereas in branded production Kingold generally purchases gold directly once a customer has placed an order. The Company recognizes revenues under the FASB Codification Topic 605 ("ASC Topic 605"). Pursuant to this guidance, revenue is recognized when all of the following have occurred: (i) there is persuasive evidence of an arrangement with a customer, (ii) the contracted services have been performed, (iii) the fees to be paid under the agreement are either fixed or determinable and (iv) the Company’s collection of such fees is reasonably assured. These criteria, as related to the Company’s revenues, are considered to have been met as follows:

 

Sales of branded products

Kingold recognizes revenue on sales of branded products when the goods are delivered and title to the goods passes to the customer provided that: there are no uncertainties regarding customer acceptance; persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; the sales price is fixed and determinable; and collectability is deemed probable.

 

Customized production fees

Kingold recognize services-based revenue from such contracts when: (i) the contracted for services have been performed, (ii) the customer has approved the completion of the services, (iii) an invoice has been issued and (iv) collectability is deemed probable. Revenues from customized production services made up approximately 2.27% of total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, compared to 1.98% for the nine months ended September 30, 2011.

 

8
 

 

KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(UNAUDITED)

 

Income taxes

 

Kingold accounts for income taxes under the FASB Codification Topic 740 (“ASC 740”). Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the consolidated financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. 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 as income in the period included the enactment date. Valuation allowances are established, when necessary, to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized.

 

The provisions of ASC 740-10-25, "Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes" prescribes a more-likely-than-not threshold for consolidated financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken (or expected to be taken) in a tax return. This interpretation also provides guidance on the recognition of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions, and related disclosures. There was no uncertain tax position recorded at September 30, 2012 or at December 31, 2011.

 

To the extent applicable, Kingold records interest and penalties as a general and administrative expense. The statute of limitations for the Company’s U.S. federal income tax returns and certain state income tax returns remains open for tax years 2008 and after. As of September 30, 2012, the tax year ended December 31, 2005 through December 31, 2011 for the Company’s People’s Republic of China (“PRC”) subsidiaries remain open for statutory examination by the PRC tax authorities.

 

Foreign currency translation

 

Kingold, as well as its wholly owned subsidiary, Dragon Lead, maintains accounting records in United States Dollars (“USD”), whereas Wuhan Vogue-Show and Wuhan Kingold maintain their accounting records in the currency of Renminbi (“RMB”), being the primary currency of the economic environment in which their operations are conducted.

 

The Company’s principal country of operations is the PRC. The financial position and results of its operations are determined using RMB, the local currency, as the functional currency. The results of operations and the statement of cash flows denominated in foreign currency are translated at the average rate of exchange during the reporting period. Assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated at the applicable rates of exchange in effect at that date. The equity denominated in the functional currency is translated at the historical rate of exchange at the time of capital contribution. Due to the fact that cash flows are translated based on the average translation rate, amounts related to assets and liabilities reported on the statement of cash flows will not necessarily agree with changes in the corresponding balances on the balance sheet. Translation adjustments arising from the use of different exchange rates from period to period are included as a component of stockholders’ equity as “Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income.”

 

The value of RMB against USD and other currencies may fluctuate and is affected by, among other things, changes in the PRC’s political and economic conditions, any significant revaluation of RMB may materially affect the Company’s financial condition in terms of USD reporting. The following table outlines the currency exchange rates that were used in creating the consolidated financial statements in this report:

 

   September 30,   December 31, 
   2012   2011 
           
Balance sheet items, except for share capital, additional paid in capital and retained earnings, as of year end   $1=RMB 6.28570    $1=RMB 6.30559 
           
Amounts included in the statements of operations and cash flows for the year   $1=RMB 6.32948    $1=RMB 6.46153 

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Company does not believe that any recently issued, but not yet effective, accounting standards, if currently adopted, will have a material effect on its condensed consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

 

9
 

 

KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(UNAUDITED)

 

Risks and Uncertainties

 

The jewelry industry generally is affected by fluctuations in the price and supply of diamonds, gold, and, to a lesser extent, other precious and semi-precious metals and stones. The Company potentially has exposure to the fluctuation in gold commodity prices as part of its normal operations. In the past, Kingold has not hedged its requirement for gold or other raw materials through the use of options, forward contracts or outright commodity purchasing. A significant increase in the price of gold could increase the Company’s production costs beyond the amount that it is able to pass on to its customers, which would adversely affect the Company’s sales and profitability. A significant disruption in the Company’s supply of gold, or other commodities could decrease its production and shipping levels, materially increase its operating costs and materially and adversely affect its profit margins. Shortages of gold, or other commodities, or interruptions in transportation systems, labor strikes, work stoppages, war, acts of terrorism, or other interruptions to or difficulties in the employment of labor or transportation in the markets in which Kingold purchases its raw materials, may adversely affect its ability to maintain production of its products and sustain profitability. Although Kingold generally attempts to pass increased commodity prices to its customers, there may be circumstances in which it is not able to do so. In addition, if the Company were to experience a significant or prolonged shortage of gold, it would be unable to meet its production schedules and to ship products to its customers in a timely manner, which would adversely affect its sales, margins and customer relations.

 

Furthermore, the value of Kingold’s inventory may be affected by commodity prices. The Company records the value of its inventory using the lower of cost or market value, cost calculated on the weighted average method. As a result, decreases in the market value of precious metals such as gold would result in a lower stated value of the Company’s inventory, which may require it to take a charge for the decrease in the value of its inventory.

 

The operations of the Company are located in the PRC. Accordingly, the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of operations may be influenced by the political, economic, and legal environments in the PRC, as well as by the general state of the PRC economy. The Company’s operations in the PRC are subject to special considerations and significant risks not typically associated with companies in North America and Western Europe. These include risks associated with, among others, the political, economic and legal environment and foreign currency exchange. The Company’s results may be adversely affected by exchanges in the political, regulatory and social conditions in the PRC, and by changes in governmental policies or interpretations with respect to laws and regulations, anti-inflationary measures, currency conversion, remittances abroad, and rates and methods of taxation, among other things. In addition, the Company only controls Wuhan Kingold through a series of agreements. If such agreements were cancelled, modified or otherwise not complied with, the Company would not be able to retain control of this consolidated entity and the impact could be material to the Company’s operations. Although the Company has not experienced losses from these situations and believes that we are in compliance with existing laws and regulations including the organization and structure disclosed in Note 1, this may not be indicative of future results.

 

NOTE 3 — INVENTORIES, NET

 

Inventories as of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 consisted of the following:

 

   As of 
   September 30,   December 31, 
   2012   2011 
Raw materials  $30,885,079   $17,301,339 
Work-in-progress   76,481,760    62,933,479 
Finished goods   34,888,366    27,853,602 
Total inventory  $142,255,205   $108,088,420 

 

For the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, no provision for obsolete inventories was considered necessary.

 

10
 

 

KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(UNAUDITED)

 

NOTE 4 — PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET

 

The following is a summary of property and equipment as of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011:

 

   As of 
   September 30,   December 31, 
   2012   2011 
Buildings  $2,420,811   $1,954,217 
Plant and machinery   18,876,491    18,816,377 
Motor vehicles   69,921    77,964 
Office and electric equipment   586,645    582,958 
Subtotal   21,953,868    21,431,517 
Less: accumulated depreciation   (9,821,233)   (8,796,912)
           
Construction in progress   -    308,298 
Property and equipment, net  $12,132,635   $12,942,902 

 

Depreciation expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 were $995,002 and $970,450, respectively. Depreciation expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 were $333,234 and $331,701, respectively.

 

NOTE 5 — SHORT TERM LOAN

 

Short term loan consists of the following:

 

   As of 
   September 30,   December 31, 
   2012   2011 
         
a) Loan payable to CITIC Bank Corporation Limited   6,363,651    6,343,578 
           
Total short term loans  $6,363,651   $6,343,578 

 

a)    Loan payable to CITIC Bank Corporation Limited is pursuant to two Working Capital Loan Contracts with a one year term from November 29, 2011 to November 29, 2012 carrying an interest rate of 7% per year. The loans are secured by all the Company’s buildings, plant and machinery.

 

NOTE 6 — INCOME TAXES

 

Kingold is subject to income taxes on an entity basis on income arising in or derived from the tax jurisdiction in which each entity is domiciled.

 

Kingold is incorporated in the United States and has incurred net operating loss for income tax purposes for 2012 and 2011. We had loss carry forwards of approximately $6,244,611 for U.S. income tax purposes available for offsetting against future taxable U.S. income, expiring in 2032. Management believes that the realization of the benefits from these losses is uncertain due to our history of continuing losses in the United States. Accordingly, a full deferred tax asset valuation allowance has been provided and no deferred tax asset benefit has been recorded. The valuation allowance as of September 30, 2012 was $2,123,168. The net increase in the valuation allowance in the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012 were $177,415 and $713,882.

 

Dragon Lead was incorporated in the British Virgin Islands (the “BVI”), and under current laws of the BVI, income earned is not subject to income tax.

 

Wuhan Vogue-Show and Wuhan Kingold were incorporated in the PRC and are subject to PRC income tax, which is computed according to the relevant laws and regulations in the PRC. The applicable tax rate is 25% for the periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011.

 

Kingold does not have any deferred tax assets or liabilities from its foreign operations.

 

11
 

 

KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(UNAUDITED)

 

Significant components of the income tax provision were as follows for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011:

 

   For the Three Months Ended September 30,   For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 
   2012   2011   2012   2011 
Current tax provision                    
Federal  $-   $-   $-   $- 
State   -    -    -    - 
Foreign   3,016,059    3,353,879    9,280,633    8,347,773 
    3,016,059    3,353,879    9,280,633    8,347,773 
                     
Deferred tax provision                    
Federal  $-   $-   $-   $- 
State   -    -    -    - 
Foreign   -    -    -    - 
    -    -    -    - 
Income tax provision  $3,016,059   $3,353,879   $9,280,633   $8,347,773 

 

Income from continuing operations before income taxes were allocated between the U.S. and Foreign components for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011:

 

   For the Three Months Ended September 30,   For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 
   2012   2011   2012   2011 
                 
United States  $(521,809)  $(343,600)  $(2,099,653)  $(993,931)
Foreign   11,904,485    13,419,274    36,641,826    33,397,123 
    11,382,676    13,075,674    34,542,173    32,403,192 

 

The following table reconciles the U.S. statutory rates to Kingold’s effective rate for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011:

 

   For the Three Months Ended September 30,   For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 
   2012   2011   2012   2011 
US Statutory rate   34%   34%   34%   34%
Foreign income not recognized in USA   (34)%   (34)%   (34)%   (34)%
China income tax   25%   25%   25%   25%
Non-dedcutible expenses   1%   1%   2%   1%
                     
Effective tax rate    26%   26%   27%   26%

 

 

12
 

 

KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(UNAUDITED)

 

NOTE 7 — EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

As of September 30, 2012, Kingold had warrants outstanding for the acquisition of 1,388,358 shares of its common stock. Of such warrants, 125,000 warrants were issued in 2008, with an exercise price of $1.196, and 969,358 warrants were issued in 2009, with an exercise price of $0.996. In January 2011, Kingold issued 150,000 warrants with an exercise price of $3.25, and 144,000 warrants with an exercise price of $3.99. As of September 30, 2012, the warrants issued in 2008 and 2009 were considered dilutive and were included in the weighted average shares-diluted calculation using the treasury stock method. The warrants issued in 2011 were anti-dilutive because the exercise prices were higher than average market price in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012. They are not included in weighted average shares calculation. 

 

As of September 30, 2012, Kingold had options outstanding for the acquisition of 3,040,000 shares (See Note 9 — Options). Of such options, 120,000 options were granted in 2011, with an exercise price of $2.27, 1,500,000 options were granted in 2011 with an exercise price of $2.59, 1,300,000 options were granted in 2012 with an exercise price of $1.22 and 120,000 options were granted in 2012 with an exercise price of $1.49. As of September 30, 2012, the options granted in 2012 were considered dilutive and were included in the weighted average shares-diluted calculation using the treasury stock method. The options granted in 2011 were anti-dilutive because the exercise prices were higher than the average market price in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012. They are not included in weighted average shares calculation.

 

The following table presents a reconciliation of basic and diluted net income per share:

 

   For the Three Months Ended September 30,   For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 
   2012   2011   2012   2011 
                 
Net income attributable to Common stockholders  $8,366,617   $9,315,211   $25,261,540   $23,015,665 
                     
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - Basic   53,578,218    49,998,706    53,286,072    49,391,647 
                     
Effect of dilutive securities:                    
                     
Unexercised warrants and options   668,345    745,653    914,480    1,089,233 
                     
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - Diluted   54,246,563    50,744,359    54,200,552    50,480,880 
                     
Earnings per share-Basic  $0.16   $0.19   $0.47   $0.47 
                     
Earnings per share-Diluted  $0.15   $0.18   $0.47   $0.46 

 

Note 8 — WARRANTS

 

On April 8, 2012, 64,257 warrants (2009 warrants) were exercised at an exercise price of $0.996 and 25,703 shares of common stock were issued. Pursuant to the cashless exercise provision, an additional 38,554 shares were issued, surrendered and canceled to reflect the payment of the exercise price on the 64,257 warrants.

 

On June 18, 2012, 450,000 warrants (2009 warrants) were exercised at an exercise price of $0.996 and 278,276 shares of common stock were issued. Pursuant to the cashless exercise provision, an additional 171,724 shares were issued, surrendered and canceled to reflect the payment of the exercise price on the 450,000 warrants.

 

On June 25, 2012, 25,000 warrants (2009 warrants) were exercised at an exercise price of $0.996 and 15,568 shares of common stock were issued. Pursuant to the cashless exercise provision, an additional 9,432 shares were issued, surrendered and canceled to reflect the payment of the exercise price on the 25,000 warrants.

 

On August 4, 2012, 480,435 warrants (2009 warrants) were exercised at an exercise price of $0.996 and 244,250 shares of common stock were issued. Pursuant to the cashless exercise provision, an additional 236,185 shares were issued, surrendered and canceled to reflect the payment of the exercise price on the 244,250 warrants.

 

13
 

 

KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(UNAUDITED)

 

Following is a summary of the status of warrants activities as of September 30, 2012:

 

   Warrants Outstanding   Weighted Average
Exercise Price
   Average Remaining Life in Years 
Outstanding, January 1, 2012   2,408,050   $1.33    3.03 
Granted               
Forfeited               
Exercised   1,019,692    0.996      
Outstanding, September 30, 2012   1,388,358   $1.57    2.29 

 

NOTE 9 — OPTIONS

 

Kingold granted 1,620,000 options to certain members of management and directors in 2011. The fair value of the options was $1,947,970, and according to vesting period, $110,439 and $367,539 is recorded as part of stock compensation expenses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012. On January 9, 2012, Kingold granted 1,300,000 options with an exercise price of $1.22 to certain members of management and directors. These options can be exercised within ten years from the grant date once they become exercisable. The options become exercisable in accordance with the schedule below: (a) 25% of the options become exercisable on the first anniversary of the grant date (such date is the initial vesting date), and (b) 6.25% of the options become exercisable on the date three months after the initial vesting date and on such date every third month thereafter, through the fourth anniversary of the grant date. The fair value of the warrants was calculated using the Black-Scholes options pricing model using the following assumptions: volatility of 124.81%, risk free interest rate of 1.98 %, and expected term of 10 years. The fair value of the options was $1,516,435, and according to vesting period, $94,777 and $284,332 are recorded as part of stock compensation expenses in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012.

 

On April 1, 2012, Kingold granted 120,000 options with an exercise price of $1.49 to its CFO per his employment agreement. These options can be exercised within ten years from the grant date once they become exercisable. The options become exercisable every 3 months starting from grant date for the one year service period from April 1, 2012. The fair value of the warrants was calculated using the Black-Scholes options pricing model using the following assumptions: volatility of 124.50%, risk free interest rate of 2.23 %, and expected term of 10 years. The fair value of the options was $170,967, and according to vesting period, $42,742 and $85,483 are recorded as part of stock compensation expenses in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012.

 

As of September 30, 2012, the Company had 761,250 outstanding vested stock options in a weighted average period over 8.99 years. As of September 30, 2012, the Company had 2,278,750 unvested stock options in a weighted average period over 8.95 years. The unrecorded stock-based compensation expenses amounted $2,753,288 as of September 30, 2012.

 

NOTE 10 — CONCENTRATIONS AND RISKS

 

Kingold maintains certain bank accounts in the PRC and BVI, which are not protected by FDIC insurance or other insurance.  The cash balance held in the PRC bank accounts was $1,599,030 and $8,439,261 as of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The cash balance held in the BVI bank accounts was $18,482 and $49,945 as of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.  As of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Company held $7,693 and $320,967 of cash balances within the United States of which $0 and $70,967 was in excess of FDIC insurance limits of $250,000 as of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

 

During the periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, almost 100% of the Company's assets were located in the PRC and 100% of the Company's revenues were derived from the subsidiaries located in the PRC.

 

Kingold’s principal raw material used during the period was gold, which accounted for 100% and 100% of its total purchases for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Kingold purchased gold directly, and solely, from The Shanghai Gold Exchange, the largest gold trading platform in the PRC.

 

14
 

 

NOTE 11 — SUBSEQUENT EVENT

 

On October 4, 2012, Kingold entered into a Stock Loan and Repurchase Agreement, or the Loan Agreement, with Equities First Holdings, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, or EFH, providing for three-year non-recourse term loans collateralized by shares of the Company’s common stock. Pursuant to the Loan Agreement, EFH will extend term loans to Kingold, and Kingold will issue and pledge shares of its common stock to EFH as collateral for such term loans. When the Company repays the outstanding principal amount of the loan (along with any accrued yet unpaid interest and other obligations due EFH) at maturity, EFH will return to the Company the shares of its common stock pledged as collateral. Because the term loans are non-recourse, if the Company elects not to pay an outstanding loan in full at maturity, EFH has agreed to look only to the shares of common stock that it was issued as collateral for payment of the Company’s obligations under such term loan. Such non-repayment, however, would be considered an Event of Default (as such term is defined in the Loan Agreement), and result in the acceleration of the maturity date of any other term loans from EFH that are then outstanding under the Loan Agreement.

 

The initial principal amount of each term loan will be determined by reference to the number of shares of Company common stock that EFH is issued and pledged as collateral for such loan. The principal amount will be equal to such number of shares multiplied by 75% of the lower of (x) the last sale price of such common stock on the business day prior to delivering the shares of to EFH and (y) the average of the last sale prices for the three consecutive business days prior to delivering the shares to EFH. The Loan Agreement provides that term loans will bear interest at a rate of 4% (which may be increased to 7% in the event of a default), payable quarterly in arrears, and will have a maturity date of three years. The Company has also agreed to pay a loan origination fee of 4.5% of the loan principal amount.

 

The initial $655,650 term loan under the Loan Agreement was made on October 5, 2012 following the issuance by the Company to EFH of 600,000 shares of Company common stock as collateral. The second $236,250 term loan was made on November 5, 2012 following the issuance by the Company to EFH of 250,000 shares of Company common stock as collateral. Additional tranche loans will be collateralized by future issuances and pledges of shares of common stock to EFH subject to a maximum aggregate amount of 10,600,000 shares of common stock (representing less than 19.9% of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock on the date of the Loan Agreement). The number of shares to be issued for any such tranche loan will vary based on the 10-day average daily trading volume of the Company’s common stock, subject to a minimum 50,000 share volume requirement. In addition, EFH is not obligated to fund additional tranche loans if, among other items, there is an event of default that is existing and continuing, the average daily trading volume of the Company’s common stock for 10 consecutive days prior to a tranche loan is less than 50,000 shares, the number of shares subject to such tranche loan would exceed 4.99% of the Company’s issued and outstanding shares of common stock, or if entry into the tranche loan would cause EFH to beneficially own more than 9.5% of the Company’s issued and outstanding common stock.

 

So long as there is no Event of Default, the Company has the right to terminate the Loan Agreement at any time upon five business days’ notice without any prepayment penalty. EFH has agreed to credit towards any interest due and payable and any future payments of interest any interest, dividends, distributions or other amounts it may receive on the shares of the Company’s common stock that it holds as collateral for such loan. EFH has also agreed that it will not vote any shares of its common stock that it is holding as collateral. Finally, in the event the value of the pledged collateral (by reference to the trailing three-day average last sale price) does not exceed 80% of the loan principal amount, the Company has agreed to issue EFH additional shares of its common stock (or pay cash) to address the deficiency, or terminate the agreement, subject to the limitation that the Company will not issue more than an aggregate of 10,600,000 shares of its common stock under any circumstances pursuant to the Loan Agreement.

 

The shares of common stock to be issued and pledged to EFH by the Company under the Loan Agreement have been registered with the SEC on a registration statement on Form S-3 (SEC File No. 333-179694) and the Company filed a prospectus supplement dated October 4, 2012 with the SEC relating to such offer and sale.

  

15
 

 

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

 

The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with the financial statements and related notes included in this Report and in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011.  This discussion contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. See also the “Cautionary Statement for Purposes of the “Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995” appearing elsewhere in this Report. Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in those forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including, but not limited to, those contained in the “Risk Factors” section of this Report and in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011.

 

Our Business

 

Through a variable interest entity, or VIE, relationship with Wuhan Kingold Jewelry Company Limited, a PRC corporation, we believe that we are one of the leading professional designers and manufacturers of high quality 24 Karat gold jewelry and ornaments developing, promoting, and selling a broad range of products to the rapidly expanding jewelry market across the People’s Republic of China, or PRC. We offer a wide range of in-house designed products including but not limited to gold necklaces, rings, earrings, bracelets, and pendants.

 

We have historically sold our products directly to distributors, retailers and other wholesalers, who then sell our products to consumers through retail counters located in both department stores and other traditional stand-alone jewelry stores. We sell our products to our customers at a price that reflects the market price of the base material, plus a mark-up reflecting our design fees and processing fees. Typically this mark-up ranges from 3% – 6% of the price of the base material.

 

We aim to become an increasingly important participant in the PRC’s gold jewelry design and manufacturing sector. In addition to expanding our design and manufacturing capabilities, our goal is to provide a large variety of gold products in unique styles and superior quality under our brand, Kingold.

 

In view of the fast growth in investment gold business sector, we have signed agreements with three leading banks in the PRC to sell gold bars and coins and other products through bank branches. We tested this business model in 2011 and sales of investment gold increased to approximately $46.4 million in the first nine months of 2012. We anticipate the investment gold business will become an increasingly important part of our future business.

 

We are located in Wuhan, which is one of the largest cities in China. We processed approximately 30 metric tons of 24 Karat gold products in 2011 and 30.2 metric tons of 24 Karat gold products in the PRC first nine months of 2012.

 

16
 

 

Results of Operations

 

The following table sets forth our statements of operations (unaudited) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 in U.S. dollars:

 

KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(IN US DOLLARS)

(UNAUDITED)

 

   For the three months ended September 30,   For the nine months ended September 30, 
   2012   2011   2012   2011 
                 
NET SALES  $220,836,949   $210,710,516   $714,290,183   $620,533,358 
                     
COST OF SALES                    
Cost of sales   (207,868,634)   (196,453,806)   (674,193,265)   (584,246,090)
Depreciation   (296,524)   (265,488)   (890,419)   (872,125)
Total cost of sales   (208,165,158)   (196,719,294)   (675,083,684)   (585,118,215)
                     
GROSS PROFIT   12,671,791    13,991,222    39,206,499    35,415,143 
                     
OPERATING EXPENSES                    
Selling, general and administrative expenses   756,674    789,820    3,165,658    2,550,526 
Stock compensation expenses   379,450    62,500    1,047,355    257,500 
Depreciation   36,710    66,214    104,584    98,325 
Amortization   2,983    3,000    8,958    8,781 
Total Operating Expenses   1,175,817    921,534    4,326,555    2,915,133 
                     
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS   11,495,974    13,069,689    34,879,944    32,500,010 
                     
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSES)        -           
Other Income   -    227    -    18,234 
Other Expense   -    5,758    (1,559)   5,758 
Interest expense   (113,298)   -    (336,212)   (120,811)
Total Other Expenses, net   (113,298)   5,985    (337,771)   (96,819)
                     
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS BEFORE TAXES   11,382,676    13,075,674    34,542,173    32,403,192 
                     
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES   (3,016,059)   (3,353,879)   (9,280,633)   (8,347,773)
                     
NET INCOME  $8,366,617   $9,721,795   $25,261,540   $24,055,419 
Less: net income attribute to the noncontrolling interest   -    (406,584)   -    (1,039,754)
                     
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO COMMON STOCKHOLDERS  $8,366,617   $9,315,211   $25,261,540   $23,015,665 
                     
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME                    
Total foreign currency translation gains   1,700,761    1,288,912    752,777    3,333,579 
Less: foreign currency translation gains attributable to noncontrolling interest   -    (4,708)   -    (49,612)
Foreign currency translation gains attributable to common stockholders   1,700,761    1,284,204    752,777    3,283,967 
                     
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME  $10,067,377   $10,599,415   $26,014,317   $26,299,632 

 

17
 

 

Three and Nine month Period Ended September 30, 2012 Compared to the Three and Nine month Period Ended September 30, 2011

 

Net Sales 

 

Net sales for the three months ended September 30, 2012 increased to $220.8 million, an increase of $10.1 million, or 4.8%, from net sales of $210.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011. Of the $10.1 million increase in net sales, approximately $17.1 million was attributable to increased production; partially offset by approximately $9 million decrease due to the decrease in the price of gold during the period as compared to the prior period, and the remaining increase was due to the translation gain from Renminbi, or RMB, into U.S. dollars, or USD.

 

Net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 increased to $714.3 million, an increase of $93.8 million, or 15.1%, from net sales of $620.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011. The increase in net sales was primarily driven by increased production as well as by the increase in the price of gold during the period as compared to the prior period. Of the $93.8 million increase in net sales, approximately $39.0 million was attributable to increased production; approximately $38.7 million to the increase in the price of gold and the remaining increase was due to the translation gain from RMB into USD.

 

More specifically, the increase in net sales in the first nine months was mainly attributable to the following additional factors: (1) we expanded our customer base in the first nine month of 2012, including major new clients; and (2) our investment gold business has started to build up, which generated incremental revenue of approximately $46.4 million. The investment gold business has been developed in Beijing, Hubei, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Liaoning, Zhejiang, Henan and Sichuan Provinces, and our investment gold products are currently available in 366 retail bank branches across these eight provinces. We believe there is the opportunity to expand this business into more than 4,000 additional retail bank branches provided we have enough working capital to finance this growth.

 

In the third quarter of 2012, we processed a total of 9.5 metric tons of gold, of which branded production accounted for 4.6 metric tons (48.6%) and the customized production accounted for 4.9 metric tons (51.4%). In the third quarter of 2011, we processed a total of 6.6 metric tons of gold, of which branded production accounted for 4.2 metric tons (63.2%) and the customized production accounted for 2.4 metric tons (36.8%).

 

In the first nine months of 2012, we processed a total of 30.2 metric tons of gold, of which branded production accounted for 14.7 metric tons (48.8%) and the customized production accounted for 15.5 metric tons (51.2%). In the first nine months of 2011, we processed a total of 24.3 metric tons of gold, of which branded production accounted for 13.7 metric tons (56.5%) and the customized production accounted for 10.5 metric tons (43.5%). 

 

Gold processed for the three months ended September 30  
             
  2011 2012  
Metric Tons

Sales

($ Million)

Sales / Ton

($ Million)

Metric Tons

Sales

($ Million)

Sales / Ton

($ Million)

 
Total 6.6 $210.7 $31.9 9.5 $220.8 $23.1  
Branded 4.2 $198.8 $47.6 4.6 $213.9 $46.1  
Customized(1) 2.4 $11.9 $4.9 4.9 $6.9 $1.4  

 

(1) Customized includes gold that is traded in by customers for reprocessing into new pieces.

 

Gold processed for the nine months ended September 30

 
               

 

 

2011 2012  
Metric Tons

Sales

($ Million)

Sales / Ton

($ Million)

Metric Tons

Sales

($ Million)

Sales / Ton

($ Million)

 
Total 24.2 $620.5 $25.6 30.2 $714.3 $23.7  
Branded 13.7 $596.2 $43.5 14.7 $694.3 $47.1  
Customized(1) 10.5 $24.3 $2.3 15.5 $20.0 $1.3  
                       

(1) Customized includes gold that is traded in by customers for reprocessing into new pieces.

 

Cost of Sales  

 

Cost of sales for the three months ended September 30, 2012 increased to $207.9 million, an increase of $11.4 million, or 5.8%, from $196.5 million for the same period in 2011. Of the $11.4 million increase, approximately $13.9 million was due to increased production, partially offset by $5.0 million decrease due to the decrease in the price of gold in the period, with the remaining increase due to the translation gain from exchange rate fluctuations.

 

Cost of sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 increased to $674.2 million, an increase of $89.9 million, or 15.4%, from $584.2 million for the same period in 2011. The increase was primarily due to the increased price of gold and the concurrent increase in the amount of gold purchased for branded production to meet the higher sales volumes in the category. Of the $89.9 million increase, approximately $32.6 million was attributable to increases in production, and approximately $41.1 million was due to the increased price of gold and the remaining is due to the translation gain from exchange rate fluctuations.

 

Gross Profit  

 

Gross profit for the three months ended September 30, 2012 was $12.7 million, a decrease of $1.3 million, or 9.4%, from $14 million for the same period in 2011. Accordingly, gross margin for the three months ended September 30, 2012 was 5.7%, compared to 6.6% for the same period in 2011. Gross margin decreased for the three months ended September 30, 2012 compared to the same period in 2011 in large part because we processed more high-margin, high-end products in branded production during July and September in 2011. This generated a margin that was abnormally higher than the remainder of 2011 and the first nine months of 2012.

 

Gross profit for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 was $39.2 million, an increase of $3.8 million, or 10.7%, from $35.4 million for the same period in 2011. Accordingly, gross margin for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 was 5.5%, compared to 5.7% for the same period in 2011. The reason that our gross margin decreased in the first nine months of 2012 compared to 2011 is because the price of gold increased significantly in the first nine months of 2012 and we were not able to raise the processing fees we charge our customers proportionally.

 

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Our gross profit margin and profitability as well as the carrying value of our inventory are affected by changes in the price of gold. If there is an increase in the price of gold that increases our production costs beyond the amount we may be able to pass to our customers, it has a negative effect on our gross margin and profitability. Furthermore, the carrying value of our inventory may be affected if the price of gold decreases relative to the price that we paid for that inventory. At September 30, 2012, approximately 1.7 metric tons (approximately $75.5 million) of inventories were held without a purchase order.

 

Expenses

 

Total operating expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2012 were $1.2 million compared with $0.9 million for the same period in 2011.

 

Total operating expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 were $4.3 million, an increase of $1.4 million, or 48.4%, from $2.9 million for the same period in 2011. The increase in operating expenses was primarily due to the increase of stock-based compensation expenses ($0.8 million) as well as increased professional service fees ($0.4 million) due to an abandoned public offering.

 

Interest expenses were $113,298 for the three months ended September 30, 2012.

 

Interest expenses were $336,212 for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, an increase of $215,401, from the same period in 2011. We paid off approximately $6 million in loans to Pufa Bank in May 2011 and did not obtain a $6 million loan from China CITIC Bank until December 2011. As such, the interest expense is higher for the three months ended September 30, 2012.

 

The provision for income tax expense was approximately $3.0 million for three months ended September 30, 2012, a decrease of $0.4 million, or 10.1%, from approximately $3.4 million for the same period in 2011. The decrease was primarily due to our decrease in net income before taxes. 

 

The provision for income tax expense was approximately $9.3 million for nine months ended September 30, 2012, an increase of $0.9 million, or 11.2%, from approximately $8.3 million for the same period in 2011. The decrease was primarily due to an increase in our net income before taxes. 

 

Net Income Attributable to Common Stockholders

 

Net income attributable to common stockholders decreased to $8.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012 from $9.3 million for the same period in 2011, a decrease of $0.9 million, or 10.2%, as result of the matters described above.

 

Net income attributable to common stockholders increased to $25.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 from $23.0 million for the same period in 2011, an increase of $2.2 million, or 9.8%, as result of the matters described above.

 

Cash Flows

 

Net cash (used in) operating activities. 

 

Net cash used in operating activities was $7.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, compared to net cash used in operating activities of $21.5 million for the same period in 2011. This decrease was primarily because we had purchased a significant amount of gold during the nine month period ended September 30, 2011 with capital raised in a public offering.

 

Analysis and Expectations.  Our net cash from operating activities can fluctuate significantly due to changes in our inventories. Other factors that may vary significantly include our purchases of gold and income taxes. Looking forward, we expect the net cash that we generate from operating activities to continue to fluctuate as our inventories, receivables, accounts payables and the other factors described above change with increased production and the purchase of larger quantities of raw materials. These fluctuations could cause net cash from operating activities to fall, even if, as we expect, our net income grows as we expand. Although we expect net cash from operating activities will rise over the long term, we cannot predict how these fluctuations will affect our cash flow in any particular quarter.

 

Net cash (used in) investing activities.

 

Net cash used in investing activities amounted to $149,666 for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, compared to net cash used in investing activities of $64,723 for the nine months ended September 30, 2011.

 

Analysis and Expectations.  Our net cash used in investing activities did not fluctuate significantly in the comparable periods due to only small increases in the amount of equipment we purchased. We do not expect that cash used in investing activities will increase significantly in the short term future.

 

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Net cash provided by financing activities.

 

Net cash provided by financing activities was $0 for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, compared to net cash provided by financing activities of $15.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011. The change was the result of a public offering of 7.2 million shares of common stock in January 2011 with $20 million net proceeds, which was partially offset by a repayment of $6.1 million bank loan and repayment of a $2.1 million related party loan.

 

Analysis and Expectations.  We expect that cash generated from financing activities may increase significantly as a result of additional financing being obtained to meet the needs of expanded production.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We have no material off-balance sheet transactions.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As of September 30, 2012, we had approximately $1.6 million in cash and cash equivalents. We have financed our operations with cash flow generated from operations, through borrowing of short-term bank loans generally with a term of one year, as well as through a public offering in the capital markets.

 

At the end of September 30, 2012, we had an outstanding short-term loan from CITIC Bank Corporation Limited in an aggregate amount of $6.4 million with an interest rate of 7% due in November 2012. This loan is secured by all our buildings, plant and machinery. The amount outstanding under this bank loan is presented in our financial statements as “short term loans.”

 

In the PRC, it is customary practice for banks and borrowers to negotiate roll-overs or renewals of short-term borrowings on an on-going basis shortly before they mature. Although we have renewed our short-term borrowings in the past, we cannot ensure that we will be able to renew these loans in the future as they mature. If we are unable to obtain renewals of these loans or sufficient alternative funding on reasonable terms from banks or other parties, we will have to repay these borrowings with the cash on our balance sheet or cash generated by our future operations, if any. We cannot assure that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations to repay these borrowing or that additional debt or equity financing will be available on acceptable terms, or at all. Failure to maintain financing arrangements on acceptable terms would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

 

Subsequent to the end of the quarter, on October 4, 2012, we entered into a Stock Loan and Repurchase Agreement, or the Loan Agreement, with Equities First Holdings, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, or EFH, providing for three-year non-recourse term loans collateralized by shares of our common stock. Pursuant to the Loan Agreement, EFH will extend term loans to us and we will issue and pledge shares of our common stock to EFH as collateral for such term loans. When we repay the outstanding principal amount of the loan (along with any accrued yet unpaid interest and other obligations due EFH) at maturity, EFH will return to our company the shares of our common stock pledged as collateral. Because the term loans are non-recourse, if we elect not to pay an outstanding loan in full at maturity, EFH has agreed to look only to the shares of our common stock that it was issued as collateral for payment of our obligations under such term loan. Such non-repayment, however, would be considered an Event of Default (as such term is defined in the Loan Agreement), and result in the acceleration of the maturity date of any other term loans from EFH that are then outstanding under the Loan Agreement.

 

The initial principal amount of each term loan will be determined by reference to the number of shares of our common stock that EFH is issued and pledged as collateral for such loan. The principal amount will be equal to such number of shares multiplied by 75% of the lower of (x) the last sale price of such common stock on the business day prior to delivering the shares of to EFH and (y) the average of the last sale prices for the three consecutive business days prior to delivering the shares to EFH. The Loan Agreement provides that term loans will bear interest at a rate of 4% (which may be increased to 7% in the event of a default), payable quarterly in arrears, and will have a maturity date of three years. We have also agreed to pay a loan origination fee of 4.5% of the loan principal amount.

 

The initial $655,650 term loan under the Loan Agreement was made on October 5, 2012 following the issuance to EFH of 600,000 shares of our common stock as collateral. The second $236,250 term loan was made on November 5, 2012 following the issuance by the Company to EFH of 250,000 shares of Company stock as collateral. Additional tranche loans will be collateralized by future issuances and pledges of shares of common stock to EFH subject to a maximum aggregate amount of 10,600,000 shares of common stock (representing less than 19.9% of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock on the date of the Loan Agreement. For more details regarding the Loan Agreement, see Note 11 to our condensed consolidated financial statements included in Item 1 of this Report.

 

We believe that our current cash and cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash needs, including our cash needs for working capital, for the next 12 months. We may, however, require additional cash resources due to changing business conditions or other future developments, including any investments or acquisitions we may decide to pursue. Our ability to maintain sufficient liquidity depends partially on our ability to achieve anticipated levels of revenue, while continuing to control costs. If we do not have sufficient available cash, we would have to seek additional debt or equity financing through other external sources, which may not be available on acceptable terms, or at all. Failure to maintain financing arrangements on acceptable terms would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

 

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We are required to contribute a portion of our employees’ total salaries to the PRC government’s social insurance funds, including pension insurance, medical insurance, unemployment insurance, job injuries insurance, and maternity insurance, in accordance with relevant regulations. We expect that the amount of our contribution to the government’s social insurance funds will increase in the future as we expand our workforce and operations and commence contributions to an employee housing fund.

 

The ability of Vogue-Show to pay dividends may be restricted due to the PRC’s foreign exchange control policies and our availability of cash. A majority of our revenue being earned and currency received is denominated in RMB. We may be unable to distribute any dividends outside of the PRC due to PRC exchange control regulations that restrict our ability to convert RMB into USD. Accordingly, Vogue-Show’s funds may not be readily available to us to satisfy obligations which have been incurred outside the PRC, which could adversely affect our business and prospects or its ability to meet our cash obligations.

 

Because of the nature of our business, liquidity is important to us. Accordingly, we regularly monitor our liquidity position, including our cash position. When we deem appropriate, we may seek to raise additional capital by accessing the capital markets, although we will only carry out such offerings when market conditions are appropriate for our company. For example, on June 29, 2012, we decided to postpone a proposed public offering of common stock in light of the prevailing market conditions, and elected to explore other opportunities for our company, such as the EFH Loan Agreement described above.

 

When we deem appropriate, we may use our cash on hand to purchase shares of our common stock in the open market. On July 12, 2012, our Board of Directors authorized a Stock Repurchase Plan to permit the repurchase by us of up to $10 million of issued and outstanding shares of our common stock in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions at any time and from time to time during the twelve-month period ending July 12, 2013. Repurchases will be made under the Stock Repurchase Plan using our own cash resources. These repurchases, if and when made, will be made subject to market conditions, applicable legal requirements (including federal and state securities laws as well as rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission) and other factors. The Stock Repurchase Plan does not obligate us to acquire any particular amount of our common stock and the Stock Repurchase Plan may be modified, extended or terminated at any time at our discretion. To date, we have not repurchased any shares of our common stock under the Stock Repurchase Plan.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Management’s discussion and analysis of results of operations and financial condition are based upon our consolidated financial statements. These statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, or U.S. GAAP. These principles require management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported and disclosed in the financial statements and related notes. See Note 2 to our consolidated financial statements, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.” We believe that the following paragraphs reflect our most critical accounting policies that currently affect our financial condition and results of operations.

 

Principles of Consolidation

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of Kingold, its wholly owned subsidiaries, Dragon Lead and Wuhan Vogue-Show and Wuhan Kingold, its 100% contractually controlled affiliate.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories consisting of finished goods, materials on hand, packaging materials and raw materials are stated at the lower of cost or market value. The value of finished goods is comprised of direct materials, direct labor and an appropriate proportion of overhead. Cost is determined using the weighted average method. We continually evaluate the composition of our inventories assessing the turnover of our products. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value, cost being calculated on the weighted average basis. The cost of inventories comprises all costs of purchases, costs of fixed and variable production overheads and other costs incurred in bringing the inventories to their present location and condition. We provide inventory allowances based on excess and obsolete inventories determined principally by customer demand. We did not record a provision for obsolete inventories as of either December 31, 2011 or September 30, 2012. However, we do realize if the gold price changes substantially in a very short period, it might trigger customer default, resulting in inventory obsolescence.

 

Our gross profit margin and profitability as well as the carrying value of our inventory are affected by changes in the price of gold. If there is an increase in the price of gold that increases our production costs beyond the amount we may be able to pass to our customers, it has a negative effect on our gross margin and profitability. Furthermore, the carrying value of our inventory may be affected if the price of gold decreases relative to the price that we paid for that inventory. At September 30, 2012, approximately 1.7 metric tons (approximately $75.5 million) of inventories were held without a purchase order.

 

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Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

 

The long-lived assets held and used by us are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be fully recoverable. It is possible that these assets could become impaired as a result of technology or other industry changes. The recoverability value of an asset to be held and used is determined by comparing the carrying amount of such asset against the future net undiscounted cash flows to be generated by the asset. Our principal long-lived assets are our property, plant and equipment assets.

 

We must make various assumptions and estimates regarding estimated future cash flows and other factors in determining the fair values of the respective assets. We use set criteria that are reviewed and approved by various levels of management, and estimate the fair value of our reporting units by using undiscounted cash flow analyses. If these estimates or their related assumptions change in the future, we may be required to record impairment charges for the underlying assets at such time. Any such resulting impairment charges could be material to our results of operations.

 

If the value of such an asset is determined to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or the fair value, less disposition costs. No events or changes in our business or circumstances required us to test for impairment of our long-lived assets during 2011 and 2012, and accordingly, we did not recognize any impairment loss during these periods.

 

Competitive pricing pressure and changes in interest rates could materially and adversely affect our estimates of future net cash flows to be generated by our long-lived assets, and thus could result in future impairment losses.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

Our revenue is derived from the sales price of goods sold and fees for services provided. We recognize revenue for goods sold when they are delivered to the customer. We recognize revenue for services provided when the services have been performed, the customers have approved the completion of services, invoices have been issued and collectability is deemed probable. Management has not made an allowance for estimated sales returns because they are considered immaterial when viewed in light of our overall revenue and historical experience.

 

Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

 

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk

 

Given that all of our revenues are generated in RMB, yet our results are reported in USD, devaluation of the RMB could negatively impact our results of operations. The value of RMB is subject to changes in the PRC’s governmental policies and to international economic and political developments. In January 1994, the PRC government implemented a unitary managed floating rate system. Under this system, the People’s Bank of China, or PBOC, began publishing a daily base exchange rate with reference primarily to the supply and demand of RMB against the USD and other foreign currencies in the market during the previous day. Authorized banks and financial institutions are allowed to quote buy and sell rates for RMB within a specified band around the central bank’s daily exchange rate. On July 21, 2005, PBOC announced an adjustment of the exchange rate of the USD to RMB from 1:8.27 to 1:8.11 and modified the system by which the exchange rates are determined. Over the past four years, RMB has appreciated 15.7% against the USD (from 1 USD = 7.2946 RMB on January 1, 2008 to 1 USD = 6.2857 RMB on September 30, 2012). While the international reaction to the RMB revaluation has generally been positive, there remains significant international pressure on the PRC government to adopt an even more flexible currency policy, which could result in further fluctuations of the exchange rate of RMB against the USD, including possible devaluations. As all of our net revenues are recorded in RMB, any future devaluation of RMB against the USD could negatively impact our results of operations.

 

Along these lines, the income statements of our operations are translated into USD at the average exchange rates in each applicable period. To the extent the USD strengthens against foreign currencies, the translation of these foreign currencies denominated transactions results in reduced revenue, operating expenses and net income for our international operations. Similarly, to the extent the USD weakens against foreign currencies, the translation of these foreign currency denominated transactions results in increased revenue, operating expenses and net income for our international operations. We are also exposed to foreign exchange rate fluctuations as we convert the financial statements of our foreign subsidiaries into USD in consolidation. If there is a change in foreign currency exchange rates, the conversion of the foreign subsidiaries’ financial statements into USD will lead to a translation gain or loss which is recorded as a component of other comprehensive income. In addition, we have certain assets and liabilities that are denominated in currencies other than the relevant entity’s functional currency. Changes in the functional currency value of these assets and liabilities create fluctuations that will lead to a transaction gain or loss. We have not entered into agreements or purchased instruments to hedge our exchange rate risks, although we may do so in the future. The availability and effectiveness of any hedging transaction may be limited and we may not be able to successfully hedge our exchange rate risks.

 

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Interest Rate Risk

 

Our short-term borrowings as of September 30, 2012 were approximately $6.36 million and interest expenses paid were $0.12 million and $0.35 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively. We expect the interest will increase slightly when we renew the loan agreement as the central bank of China has raised the baseline rates over the past couple of months.

 

At the end of September 30, 2012, our weighted average interest rate was 7%. We currently have no interest rate hedge positions in place to reduce our exposure to interest rates.

 

Commodity Price Risk

 

Most of our sales are of products that include gold, precious metals and other commodities, and fluctuations in the availability and pricing of commodities would adversely impact our ability to obtain and make products at favorable prices. The jewelry industry generally is affected by fluctuations in the price and supply of diamonds, gold, and, to a lesser extent, other precious and semi-precious metals and stones. In the past, we have not hedged our requirement for gold or other raw materials through the use of options, forward contracts or outright commodity purchasing, although we may do so in the future. A significant increase in the price of gold could increase our production costs beyond the amount that we are able to pass on to our customers, which would adversely affect our sales and profitability. A significant disruption in our supply of gold or other commodities could decrease our production and shipping levels, materially increase our operating costs and materially and adversely affect our profit margins. Shortages of gold, or other commodities, or interruptions in transportation systems, labor strikes, work stoppages, war, acts of terrorism, or other interruptions to or difficulties in the employment of labor or transportation in the markets in which we purchase our raw materials, may adversely affect our ability to maintain production of our products and sustain profitability. If we were to experience a significant or prolonged shortage of gold, we would be unable to meet our production schedules and to ship products to our customers in a timely manner, which would adversely affect our sales, margins and customer relations.

 

Our gross profit margin and profitability as well as the carrying value of our inventory are affected by changes in the price of gold. If there is an increase in the price of gold that increases our production costs beyond the amount we may be able to pass to our customers, it has a negative effect on our gross margin and profitability. Furthermore, the carrying value of our inventory may be affected if the price of gold decreases relative to the price that we paid for that inventory. At September 30, 2012, approximately 1.7 metric tons (approximately $75.5 million) of inventories were held without a purchase order.

 

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Item 4.  Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance that material information required to be disclosed by us in the reports filed or submitted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms, and that the information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Based on our review, our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level as of the end of the period covered by this Report.

 

Changes in Internal Controls

 

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the most recent financial quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. Because of its inherent limitations, a system of internal control over financial reporting can provide only reasonable assurance and may not prevent or detect misstatements. Further, because of changes in conditions, effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting may vary over time. Our system contains self-monitoring mechanisms, and actions are taken to correct deficiencies as they are identified.

 

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.  Legal Proceedings

 

From time to time, we may be subject to legal proceedings and claims in the ordinary course of business. We are not currently a party to any litigation the outcome of which, if determined adversely to us, would individually or in the aggregate be reasonably expected to have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results, cash flows or financial condition.

 

Item 1A.  Risk Factors

 

Other than as described below, there have been no material changes to our risk factors as previously disclosed in Item 1A “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011. The risk factors described below should be read in conjunction with those disclosed in our Form 10-K.

 

Because our revenues are generated in RMB and our results are reported in U.S. dollars, devaluation of the RMB could negatively impact our results of operations.

 

The value of RMB is subject to changes in PRC governmental policies and to international economic and political developments. In January 1994, the PRC government implemented a unitary managed floating rate system. Under this system, the People’s Bank of China (the “PBOC”) began publishing a daily base exchange rate with reference primarily to the supply and demand of RMB against the USD and other foreign currencies in the market during the previous day. Authorized banks and financial institutions are allowed to quote buy and sell rates for RMB within a specified band around the central bank’s daily exchange rate. On July 21, 2005, the PRC government changed its decade-old policy of pegging the value of the RMB to the USD. Under the current policy, the RMB is permitted to fluctuate within a narrow and managed band against a basket of certain foreign currencies. This change in policy has resulted in an appreciation of the RMB against the USD. While the international reaction to the RMB revaluation has generally been positive, there remains significant international pressure on the PRC government to adopt an even more flexible currency policy, which could result in further fluctuations of the exchange rate of RMB against the USD, including possible devaluations. As all of our net revenues are recorded in RMB, any future devaluation of RMB against the USD could negatively impact our results of operations.

 

Our PRC stockholders are required to register with the State Administration of Foreign Exchange and their failure to do so could cause us to lose our ability to remit profits out of the PRC as dividends.

 

The State Administration of Foreign Exchange, or SAFE, issued a public notice in October 2005, or Circular 75, requiring PRC residents to register with the local SAFE branch before establishing or controlling any company outside of the PRC for the purpose of capital financing with assets or equities of PRC companies owned by such PRC residents, referred to in the notice as an ‘‘offshore special purpose vehicle.’’ SAFE has further issued a series of implementation guidance, including the most recent Notice of SAFE on Printing and Distributing the Rules for the Implementation of the Operating Procedure of Foreign Exchange in Fund-Raising and Round-trip Investment Activities of Domestic Residents Conducted via Offshore Special Purpose Companies, or Circular 19, which has come into effect as of July 1, 2011. These regulations require PRC residents and PRC corporate entities to register with competent local branches of SAFE in connection with their direct or indirect offshore investment in offshore special purpose vehicles. These regulations may apply to our shareholders who are PRC residents or have PRC residents as their ultimate owners and may apply to any offshore acquisitions that we make in the future.

 

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Under these foreign exchange regulations, PRC residents who make, or have previously made prior to October 2005, direct or indirect investments in offshore special purpose vehicles are required to register those investments. In addition, any PRC resident that is a shareholder of an offshore special purpose vehicle is required to amend its SAFE registration with respect to that offshore special purpose company in connection with any increase or decrease of capital, transfer of shares, merger, division, equity investment or creation of any security interest over any assets located in China or other material changes in share capital. Moreover, any subsidiary of such offshore special purpose company in China is required to urge the PRC resident shareholders to update their registration with the local branch of SAFE. If any shareholder who is considered as a PRC resident by SAFE fails to make the required registration or to update the previously filed registration, the subsidiary of such offshore special purpose company in China may be prohibited from distributing its profits or the proceeds from any capital reduction, share transfer or liquidation to the offshore special purpose company, and the offshore special purpose company may also be prohibited from making additional capital contribution into its subsidiary in China.

 

These regulations apply to our stockholders who are PRC residents. As of September 30, 2012, our chairman and chief executive officer, Zhihong Jia, and our general manager, Bin Zhao, have obtained their registrations and modification registrations under Circular 75, Wen Yang has obtained his registration under Circular 75, and the other PRC residents are in the process of obtaining such registrations. However, there is no assurance that such persons can successfully complete such registrations, and there is no assurance that all of the PRC resident stockholders and beneficiary stockholders have complied with and will comply with the SAFE registration requirements currently or in the future. In the event that these or other of our PRC-resident stockholders do not follow the procedures required by SAFE, we could (i) be exposed to fines and legal sanctions, (ii) lose the ability to contribute additional capital into our PRC subsidiaries or distribute dividends to our company, (iii) face liability for evasion of foreign-exchange regulations, and/or (iv) lose the ability to consolidate the financial statements of our PRC subsidiaries under applicable accounting principles.

 

If we make equity compensation grants to persons who are PRC citizens, they may be required to register with the State Administration of Foreign Exchange of the PRC, or SAFE. We may also face regulatory uncertainties that could restrict our ability to adopt additional equity compensation plans for our directors and employees and other parties under PRC law.

 

In December 2006, the PBOC promulgated the Administrative Measures of Foreign Exchange Matters for Individuals, which set forth the respective requirements for foreign exchange transactions by individuals (both PRC or non-PRC citizens) under either the current account or the capital account. In January 2007, SAFE issued implementing rules for the Administrative Measures of Foreign Exchange Matters for Individuals, which, among other things, specified approval requirements for certain capital account transactions such as a PRC citizen’s participation in the employee stock ownership plans or stock option plans of an overseas publicly-listed company. In February 2012, SAFE promulgated the Notices on Issues Concerning the Foreign Exchange Administration for Domestic Individuals Participating in Stock Incentive Plans of Overseas Publicly-Listed Companies, or the Stock Option Rules, which replaced the Application Procedures of Foreign Exchange Administration for Domestic Individuals Participating in Employee Stock Ownership Plans or Stock Option Plans of Overseas Publicly-Listed Companies issued by SAFE in March 2007. Under these rules, PRC residents who participate in a stock incentive plan in an overseas publicly-listed company are required to register with SAFE or its local branches and complete certain other procedures. Participants of a stock incentive plan who are PRC residents must retain a qualified PRC agent, which could be a PRC subsidiary of such overseas publicly-listed company or another qualified institution selected by such PRC subsidiary, to conduct the SAFE registration and other procedures with respect to the stock incentive plan on behalf of its participants. Such participants must also retain an overseas entrusted institution to handle matters in connection with their exercise of stock options, the purchase and sale of corresponding stocks or interests and fund transfers. In addition, the PRC agent is required to amend the SAFE registration with respect to the stock incentive plan if there is any material change to the stock incentive plan, the PRC agent or the overseas entrusted institution or other material changes. We adopted our employee stock incentive plan on October 31, 2011. As of September 30, 2012, none of our PRC resident employees has been granted any award under the employee stock incentive plan. We and our PRC resident employees who participate in the employee stock incentive plan are subject to these regulations. If we or our PRC option grantees fail to comply with these regulations, we or our PRC option grantees may be subject to fines and other legal or administrative sanctions.

 

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We face uncertainty with respect to indirect transfers of equity interests in PRC resident enterprises by their non-PRC holding companies.

 

Pursuant to the Notice on Strengthening Administration of Enterprise Income Tax for Share Transfers by Non-PRC Resident Enterprises, or SAT Circular 698, issued by the State Administration of Taxation, or the SAT, on December 10, 2009 with retroactive effect from January 1, 2008, where a non-resident enterprise transfers the equity interests of a PRC resident enterprise indirectly by disposition of the equity interests of an overseas holding company, or an Indirect Transfer, and such overseas holding company is located in a tax jurisdiction that: (a) has an effective tax rate less than 12.5% or (b) does not tax foreign income of its residents, the non-resident enterprise, being the transferor, shall report to the competent tax authority of the PRC resident enterprise this Indirect Transfer. Using a “substance over form” principle, the PRC tax authority may disregard the existence of the overseas holding company if it lacks a reasonable commercial purpose and was established for the purpose of reducing, avoiding or deferring PRC tax. As a result, gains derived from such Indirect Transfer may be subject to PRC tax at a rate of up to 10%. SAT Circular 698 also provides that, where a non-PRC resident enterprise transfers its equity interests in a PRC resident enterprise to its related parties at a price lower than the fair market value, the relevant tax authority has the power to make a reasonable adjustment to the taxable income of the transaction. In addition, the PRC resident enterprise may be required to provide necessary assistance to support the enforcement of Circular 698. There is uncertainty as to the application of SAT Circular 698. For example, while the term “Indirect Transfer” is not clearly defined, it is understood that the relevant PRC tax authorities have jurisdiction regarding requests for information over a wide range of foreign entities having no direct contact with the PRC. Moreover, the relevant authority has not yet promulgated any formal provisions or formally declared or stated how to calculate the effective tax rates in foreign tax jurisdictions, and the process and format of the reporting of an Indirect Transfer to the competent tax authority of the relevant PRC resident enterprise remain unclear. In addition, there are not any formal declarations with regard to how to determine whether a foreign investor has adopted an abusive arrangement in order to reduce, avoid or defer PRC tax. SAT Circular 698 may be determined by the tax authorities to be applicable to our private equity financing transactions where non-resident shareholders were involved, if any of such transactions were determined by the tax authorities to lack reasonable commercial purpose. As a result, we and our non-resident investors may become at risk of being taxed under SAT Circular 698 and may be required to expend valuable resources to comply with SAT Circular 698 or to establish that we should not be taxed under SAT Circular 698, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations or such non-resident shareholders’ investments in us.

 

We may issue additional common stock or warrants to purchase additional common stock, which might dilute the net tangible book value per share of our common stock.

 

Our board of directors has the authority, without action or vote of our stockholders, to issue all or a part of our authorized but unissued shares or warrants to purchase all or a part of our authorized but unissued shares. Such stock issuances could be made at a price that reflects a discount to, or a premium from, the then-current market price of our common stock. In addition, in order to raise capital, we may need to issue securities that are convertible into or exchangeable for a significant amount of our common stock or warrants to purchase a significant amount of our common stock. These issuances would dilute the percentage ownership interest, which would have the effect of reducing a stockholder’s influence on matters on which our stockholders vote, and might dilute the net tangible book value per share of our common stock. Investors in our common stock may incur additional dilution if holders of stock options, whether currently outstanding or subsequently granted, exercise their options, or if warrant holders exercise their warrants to purchase shares of our common stock.

 

A sale of a substantial number of shares of the common stock may cause the price of our common stock to decline.

 

Finance transactions resulting in a large amount of newly issued shares that become readily tradable, or other events that cause current stockholders to sell shares, could place downward pressure on the trading price of our common stock. In addition, the lack of a robust resale market may require a stockholder who desires to sell a large number of shares of common stock to sell the shares in increments over time to mitigate any adverse impact of the sales on the market price of our stock.

 

If our stockholders sell, or the market perceives that our stockholders intend to sell for various reasons, including the ending of restriction on resale or the expiration of lock-up agreements, substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market, including shares issued upon the exercise of outstanding options or warrants, the market price of our common stock could fall. Sales of a substantial number of shares of our common stock may make it more difficult for us to sell equity or equity-related securities in the future at a time and price that we deem reasonable or appropriate. We may become involved in securities class action litigation that could divert management’s attention and harm our business.

 

As of September 30, 2012, we had 53,671,140 shares of common stock issued and outstanding. Substantially all of these shares are available for public sale, subject in some cases to volume and other limitations or delivery of a prospectus. As of September 30, 2012, we had reserved for issuance (i) 3,040,000 shares of our common stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding stock options under our 2011 Stock Incentive Plan at a weighted average exercise price of $1.95 per share as of September 30, 2012; and (ii) 1,388,358 shares of our common stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding warrants at a weighted average exercise price of $1.57 per share as of September 30, 2012. Subject to applicable vesting requirements, upon exercise of the outstanding options and warrants, the underlying shares may be resold into the public market. In the case of outstanding options and warrants that have exercise prices that are below the market price of our common stock from time to time, investors in our common stock would experience dilution. We cannot predict if future issuances or sales of our common stock, or the availability of our common stock for issuance or sale, will harm the market price of our common stock or our ability to raise capital.

 

Our board of directors has the power to designate, without stockholder approval, series of preferred stock, the shares of which could be senior to our common stock and be entitled to conversion or voting rights that adversely affect the holders of our common stock.

 

Our certificate of incorporation authorizes the issuance of 500,000 shares of preferred stock (no shares of preferred stock were issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2012), and empowers our board of directors to prescribe, by resolution and without stockholder approval, a class or series of preferred stock, including the number of shares in the class or series and the voting powers, designations, rights, preferences, restrictions and the relative rights in each such class or series. Accordingly, we may designate and issue a class or series of preferred stock, the shares of which would rank senior to the shares of our common stock as to dividend rights or rights upon our liquidation, winding-up, or dissolution.

 

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Provisions of Delaware law may prevent or delay a change of control, which could depress the trading price of our common stock.

 

We are subject to the Delaware anti-takeover laws regulating corporate takeovers. These anti-takeover laws prevent Delaware corporations from engaging in a merger or sale of more than 10% of its assets with any stockholder, including all affiliates and associates of the stockholder, who owns 15% or more of the corporation’s outstanding voting stock, for three years following the date that the stockholder acquired 15% or more of the corporation’s assets unless:

 

·the board of directors approved the transaction in which the stockholder acquired 15% or more of the corporation’s assets;

 

·after the transaction in which the stockholder acquired 15% or more of the corporation’s assets, the stockholder owned at least 85% of the corporation’s outstanding voting stock, excluding shares owned by directors, officers and employee stock plans in which employee participants do not have the right to determine confidentially whether shares held under the plan will be tendered in a tender or exchange offer; or

 

·on or after this date, the merger or sale is approved by the board of directors and the holders of at least two-thirds of the outstanding voting stock that is not owned by the stockholder.

 

A Delaware corporation may opt out of the Delaware anti-takeover laws if its certificate of incorporation or bylaws so provides. We have not opted out of the provisions of the anti-takeover laws. As such, these laws could prohibit or delay mergers or other takeover or change of control of us and may discourage attempts by other companies to acquire us even if it would be beneficial to stockholders.

 

Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws contain provisions that could discourage a third-party from acquiring us.

 

Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, as applicable, among other things, (1) provide our board with the ability, subject to certain exceptions, to alter the bylaws without stockholder approval, and (2) provide that vacancies on our board of directors may be filled by a majority of directors in office. These provisions, while designed to reduce vulnerability to an unsolicited acquisition proposal, and to discourage certain tactics used in proxy fights, may negatively impact a third-party’s decision to acquire us even if it would be beneficial to stockholders.

 

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

 

None.

 

Item 3.  Defaults Upon Senior Securities.

 

None.

 

Item 4.  Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 5.  Other Information.

 

None.

 

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Item 6.  Exhibits

 

Exhibit

No.

  Description
31.1    Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*
31.2    Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*
32.1   Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*
32.2    Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*
101.INS**   XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH**   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL**   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF**   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB**   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE**   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

 

* Filed Herewith

**Furnished Herewith

 

**Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the Interactive Data Files on Exhibit 101 hereto are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, are deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise are not subject to liability under those sections.

 

Kingold’s Periodic Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2012, at the time of filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, shall modify and supersede all prior documents filed pursuant to Section 13, 14 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for purposes of any offers or sales of any securities after the date of such filing pursuant to any Registration Statement or Prospectus filed pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933, which incorporates by reference such Periodic Report on Form 10-Q.

 

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

 

Date: November 13, 2012

 

  KINGOLD JEWELRY, INC.
     
  By: /s/ Zhihong Jia
    Zhihong Jia
   

Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and

Principal Executive Officer

     
  By: /s/ Bin Liu
    Bin Liu
   

Chief Financial Officer and Principal

Accounting Officer

 

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