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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

(Mark One)

 

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

 

For the quarterly period ended February 28, 2014

 

OR

 

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

 

For the transition period from ___________ to _______________

 

Commission File Number 0-22182

 

PATRIOT SCIENTIFIC CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

84-1070278

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

 

701 Palomar Airport Road, Suite 170, Carlsbad, California

(Address of principal executive offices)

92011

(Zip Code)

 

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

 

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

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 229.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). YES   x      NO   o

 

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

 

Large accelerated filer   o      Accelerated filer   o      Non-accelerated filer   o (do not check if smaller reporting company)

Smaller reporting company   x

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes  o     No   x

 

On April 9, 2014, 402,233,879 shares of common stock, par value $0.00001 per share were outstanding.

 

 

 
 

 

 

INDEX

 

 

 

 

 

 

Page

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION    
ITEM 1. Financial Statements    
Condensed consolidated Balance Sheets as of February 28, 2014 (unaudited) and May 31, 2013   3
Condensed consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 (unaudited)   4
Condensed consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 (unaudited)   5
Notes to condensed consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)   6-22
ITEM 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations   23-34
ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk   34
ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures   34

 

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

   
ITEM 1. Legal Proceedings   35
ITEM 1A. Risk Factors   35
ITEM 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds   35
ITEM 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities   36
ITEM 4. Mine Safety Disclosures   36
ITEM 5. Other Information   36
ITEM 6. Exhibits   36-38
     
SIGNATURES    

 

2
 

 

 

PART I- FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Financial Statements

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

   February 28, 2014   May 31, 2013 
ASSETS  (Unaudited)     
Current assets:          
Cash and cash equivalents  $5,861,992   $7,572,887 
Restricted cash and cash equivalents   21,098    21,018 
Marketable securities   1,000,535    194,463 
Accounts receivable – affiliated company   80,745    16,538 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets   58,179    194,901 
Current assets of discontinued operations   15,000    40,682 
Total current assets   7,037,549    8,040,489 
           
Property and equipment, net   3,350    5,078 
Other assets   3,036    3,036 
Investment in affiliated company   348,234    366,304 
Total assets  $7,392,169   $8,414,907 
           
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
Current liabilities:          
Accounts payable  $22,185   $219,213 
Accrued expenses and other   48,782    58,521 
Income tax payable   21,388     
Total current liabilities   92,355    277,734 
Total liabilities   92,355    277,734 
           
Commitments and contingencies          
           
Stockholders’ equity:          
Preferred stock, $0.00001 par value; 5,000,000 shares authorized: none outstanding        
Common stock, $0.00001 par value: 600,000,000 shares authorized: 438,242,618 shares issued and 404,138,879 shares outstanding at February 28, 2014 and 438,242,618 shares issued and 405,247,405 shares outstanding at May 31, 2013   4,382    4,382 
Additional paid-in capital   77,400,852    77,338,434 
Accumulated deficit   (55,616,897)   (54,801,249)
Common stock held in treasury, at cost – 34,103,739 shares and 32,995,213 shares at February 28, 2014 and May 31, 2013, respectively   (14,488,523)   (14,404,394)
Total stockholders’ equity   7,299,814    8,137,173 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity  $7,392,169   $8,414,907 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

 

3
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(Unaudited)

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2013   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2013 
Operating expenses:                    
Selling, general and administrative  $379,004   $345,111   $1,191,149   $975,344 
Total operating expenses   379,004    345,111    1,191,149    975,344 
                     
Other income (expense):                    
Interest income   2,458    4,995    3,623    13,165 
Other income       26,250        217,618 
Realized recovery (loss) on marketable securities           (347)   55,873 
Equity in earnings (loss) of affiliated company   (29,889)   (601,929)   356,930    75,666 
Total other income (expense), net   (27,431)   (570,684)   360,206    362,322 
                     
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes   (406,435)   (915,795)   (830,943)   (613,022)
                     
Provision (benefit) for income taxes   (10,425)   (2,826)   25,288    (113)
                     
Loss from continuing operations   (396,010)   (912,969)   (856,231)   (612,909)
                     
Income from discontinued operations, net       1,248    40,583    1,472 
                     
Net loss  $(396,010)  $(911,721)  $(815,648)  $(611,437)
                     
Basic and diluted loss per common share:                    
Loss from continuing operations  $   $   $   $ 
Income from discontinued operations  $   $   $   $ 
Net loss  $   $   $   $ 
                     
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding-basic and diluted   401,933,416    402,396,196    402,122,360    402,576,876 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

 

 

4
 

 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited)

 

   Nine months ended 
  

February 28,

2014

  

February 28,

2013

 
         
Operating activities:          
Net loss  $(815,648)  $(611,437)
Less: Net income from discontinued operations   40,583    1,472 
Loss from continuing operations   (856,231)   (612,909)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss before discontinued operations to net cash used in operating activities:          
Depreciation   1,728    1,934 
Share-based compensation   62,418     
Accrued interest income added to investments   (967)   (6,668)
Equity in earnings of affiliated company   (356,930)   (75,666)
Realized loss (recovery) on sale of marketable securities   347    (55,873)
Loss on disposal of fixed assets       2,036 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:          
Accounts receivable - affiliated company   (64,207)   126,983 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets   136,722    150,241 
Income taxes payable   21,388    (2,513)
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other   (206,768)   (213,884)
Net cash used in operating activities of continuing operations   (1,262,500)   (686,319)
Net cash provided by operating activities of discontinued operations   66,266    15,735 
Net cash used in operating activities   (1,196,234)   (670,584)
           
Investing activities:          
Proceeds from sales of marketable securities   1,197,619    5,502,541 
Purchases of marketable securities   (2,003,151)   (4,645,799)
Purchase of property and equipment       (2,168)
Investment in affiliated company       (1,097,808)
Distributions from affiliated company   375,000    1,150,000 
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities   (430,532)   906,766 
           
Financing activities:          
Repurchase of common stock for treasury   (84,129)   (57,140)
Net cash used in financing activities   (84,129)   (57,140)
           
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents   (1,710,895)   179,042 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   7,572,887    4,699,174 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period  $5,861,992   $4,878,216 
           
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information:          
Cash paid for income taxes  $3,900   $2,400 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

5
 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

1. Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Patriot Scientific Corporation (the “Company”, “PTSC”, “Patriot”, “we”, “us” or “our”) presented herein have been prepared pursuant to the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our Report on Form 10-K for our fiscal year ended May 31, 2013.

 

In the opinion of management, the interim condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments of a normal recurring nature necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim period presented. Operating results for the nine month period ended February 28, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending May 31, 2014.

 

Basis of Consolidation

 

The condensed consolidated balance sheets at February 28, 2014 and May 31, 2013 and condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 include our accounts and those of our wholly owned subsidiary Patriot Data Solutions Group, Inc. (“PDSG”) which includes Crossflo Systems, Inc. (“Crossflo”), and our inactive subsidiary Plasma Scientific Corporation. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

 

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

 

Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale

 

On February 17, 2012, our board of directors authorized management to sell the assets of PDSG due to the inability of PDSG to meet its business plan and continuing projected negative cash flows. In accordance with authoritative guidance we have classified the assets, operations and cash flows of PDSG as discontinued operations for all periods presented. During March 2012, we entered into an interim agreement with the purchaser of the assets of PDSG which required the purchaser to pay PDSG $93,450 to subsidize the April 2012 expenses of PDSG during the sale transaction negotiations. On April 30, 2012, we negotiated a sale transaction in which we sold substantially all of the assets of PDSG in exchange for a royalty on PDSG revenues for a period of three years. From April 30, 2012 to February 28, 2014, the gain on the asset sale of PDSG is approximately $45,000.

 

Summarized operating results of discontinued operations for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
  

February 28,
2014

   February 28,
2013
   February 28,
2014
   February 28,
2013
 
   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited) 
Operating loss from discontinued operations  $   $(761)  $   $(3,222)
Gain on sale of discontinued operations  $   $2,009   $40,583   $4,694 
Income before income taxes  $   $1,248   $40,583   $1,472 
Income from discontinued operations  $   $1,248   $40,583   $1,472 

 

6
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale (continued)

 

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

 

PDSG activity for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2013 consists of operating expenses for legal, insurance, taxes and bank fees offset by PDSG royalty revenues.

 

The following table summarizes the carrying amount at February 28, 2014 and May 31, 2013 of the major classes of assets of PDSG classified as discontinued operations:

 

   February 28, 2014   May 31, 2013 
   (Unaudited)     
Current assets:          
Other current assets  $15,000   $40,682 

 

Liquidity and Management’s Plans

 

Cash shortfalls currently experienced by Phoenix Digital Solutions, LLC (“PDS”) will have an adverse effect on our liquidity. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2013, we and Technology Properties Limited, Inc. (“TPL”) each contributed $1,097,809 in additional capital to fund the operations of PDS. We and TPL have made no such contributions for the nine months ended February 28, 2014. To date, we have determined that it is in the best interests of the Moore Microprocessor Patent (“MMP”) licensing program that we provide our 50% share of capital to provide for PDS expenses including legal retainers, and litigation related payments, as well as licensing and litigation support payments to Alliacense Limited, LLC (“Alliacense”, an affiliate of TPL), in the event license revenues received by PDS are insufficient to meet these needs. We believe it is likely that contributions to PDS to fund working capital will continue to be required.

 

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

 

Our current liquid cash resources as of February 28, 2014, are expected to provide the funds necessary to support our operations through at least the next twelve months. The cash flows from our interest in PDS represent our only significant source of cash generation.  In the event of a continued decrease or interruption in MMP Portfolio licensing we will incur a significant reduction to our cash position. It is highly unlikely that we would be able to obtain any additional sources of financing to supplement our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment position of $6,862,527 at February 28, 2014.

 

On March 20, 2013, TPL filed a petition under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. We have been appointed to the creditors’ committee and have been closely monitoring the progress in this matter as it relates to our interest in PDS. If we provide funding to PDS that is not reciprocated by TPL, our ownership percentage in PDS will increase and we will have a controlling financial interest in PDS, in which case, we will consolidate PDS in our consolidated financial statements. If we determine that it is appropriate to consolidate PDS, we would measure the assets, liabilities and noncontrolling interests of PDS at their fair values at the date that we have the controlling financial interest.

 

7
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

Investments in Marketable Securities

 

We determine the appropriate classification of our investments at the time of purchase and reevaluate such designation at each balance sheet date. Our investments in marketable securities have been classified and accounted for as available-for-sale based on management’s investment intentions relating to these securities. Available-for-sale marketable securities are stated at fair market value. Unrealized gains and losses, net of deferred taxes, are recorded as a component of other comprehensive income (loss). We follow the authoritative guidance to assess whether our investments with unrealized loss positions are other than temporarily impaired. Realized gains and losses and declines in fair value judged to be other than temporary are determined based on the specific identification method and are reported in other income (expense), net in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

 

Investment in Affiliated Company

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Earnings Per Share

 

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

 

For the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 potential common shares of 1,335,000 and 825,000, respectively, related to our outstanding options were not included in the calculation of basic and diluted loss per share for continuing and discontinued operations as we recorded a loss. Had we reported net income for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014, 0 and 575,000, respectively, additional shares of common stock would have been included in the calculation of diluted income per share for continuing and discontinued operations. Had we reported net income for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2013, 825,000 and 650,000, respectively, additional shares of common stock would have been included in the calculation of diluted income per share for continuing and discontinued operations.

8
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

Earnings Per Share (continued)

 

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

 

Income Taxes

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Assessment of Contingent Liabilities

 

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

 

Intellectual Property Rights

 

PDS, our investment in affiliate, relies on a combination of patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secret laws, confidentiality procedures and licensing arrangements to protect our intellectual property rights. PDS currently licenses three unexpired U.S. patents issued dating back to 1997 on our microprocessor technology in addition to three European and two Japanese patents. The U.S. patents will expire between August 19, 2014 and 2015 and the European and Japanese patents will expire in 2016. PDS also licenses

9
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Intellectual Property Rights (continued)

 

four U.S. patents, six European, and one Japanese patent all of which expired between August 2009 and February 2014. These patents, while expired, may have certain retrospective statutory benefits that will fully diminish six years after the patent expiration date (e.g. for the expired U.S. patents). The patent useful life for purposes of negotiating licenses is finite and these patents are subject to legal challenges, which in combination with the limited life, could adversely impact the stream of revenues. A successful challenge to the ownership of the technology or the proprietary nature of the intellectual property would materially damage business prospects. Any issued patent may be challenged and invalidated.

 

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

 

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

 

Restricted cash and cash equivalents at February 28, 2014 and May 31, 2013 consist of deposits in a savings account required to be held as collateral for our corporate credit card.

 

At February 28, 2014 and May 31, 2013, our marketable securities in the amount of $1,000,535 and $194,463, respectively, consist of the par value plus accrued interest of our time deposits. These marketable securities are classified as available for sale and are reported at fair market value.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

10
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

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

 

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

 

 

  Fair Value Measurements at 
February 28, 2014 (Unaudited) Using
 
     Quoted Prices   Significant     
     in Active   Other   Significant 
  Fair Value at   Markets for   Observable   Unobservable 
  February 28,   Identical Assets   Inputs   Inputs 
   2014   (Level 1)   (Level 2)   (Level 3) 
Cash and cash equivalents:                    
Cash  $49,022   $49,022   $   $ 
Money market funds   4,911,913    4,911,913         
Certificates of deposit   901,057        901,057     
Restricted cash   21,098    21,098         
Marketable securities:                    
Short-term:                   
Certificates of deposit   1,000,535        1,000,535     
Total  $6,883,625   $4,982,033   $1,901,592   $ 

 

 

  Fair Value Measurements at 
May 31, 2013 Using
 
     Quoted Prices   Significant     
     in Active   Other   Significant 
  Fair Value at   Markets for   Observable   Unobservable 
  May 31,   Identical Assets   Inputs   Inputs 
   2013   (Level 1)   (Level 2)   (Level 3) 
Cash and cash equivalents:                    
Cash  $197,862   $197,862   $   $ 
Money market funds   5,225,176    5,225,176         
Certificates of deposit   2,149,849        2,149,849     
Restricted cash   21,018    21,018         
Marketable securities:                    
Short-term:                   
Certificates of deposit   194,463        194,463     
Total  $7,788,368   $5,444,056   $2,344,312   $ 

 

We purchase certificates of deposit with varying maturity dates greater than three months. The following table summarizes the maturities, gross unrealized gains or losses and fair value of the certificates of deposit as of February 28, 2014:

 

   February 28, 2014
(Unaudited)
 
   Cost   Gross Unrealized Gains/(Losses)   Fair
Value
 
Maturity               
Due in three months or less  $901,057   $   $901,057 
Due in one year or less  $1,000,535   $   $1,000,535 

 

11
 

 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

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

 

The following table summarizes the maturities, gross unrealized gains or losses and fair value of the certificates of deposit as of May 31, 2013:

 

   May 31, 2013 
   Cost   Gross Unrealized Gains/(Losses)   Fair
Value
 
Maturity               
Due in three months or less  $2,149,849   $   $2,149,849 
Due in one year or less  $194,463   $   $194,463 

 

 

3. Investment in Affiliated Company

 

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

 

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

 

Pursuant to our June 7, 2005 agreement with PDS and TPL to license the MMP Portfolio (“Commercialization Agreement”), PDS had committed to pay a quarterly amount ranging between $500,000 and $1,000,000 (based upon a percentage of the working capital fund balance of PDS) for supporting efforts to secure licensing agreements by TPL on behalf of PDS. During the nine months ended February 28, 2013, PDS expensed $185,000 pursuant to this commitment. This expense is recorded in the accompanying PDS statement of operations for the nine months ended February 28, 2013 presented below. These expenses concluded with the execution of the July 11, 2012 Licensing Program Services Agreement (the “Program Agreement”).

12
 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

Investment in Affiliated Company (continued)

 

PDS reimburses TPL for payment of all legal and third-party expert fees and other related third-party costs and expenses, although the majority of third-party costs are paid directly by PDS. During the three months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, PDS reversed $(7,432) and expensed $1,684,915, respectively, pursuant to the Commercialization and Program agreements. These expenses are recorded in the accompanying PDS statements of operations presented below net of $7,432 and $0, respectively, of legal fee reversals previously expensed and recorded as accounts payable to TPL during the three months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 as the statute of limitations had expired. During the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, PDS expensed $2,211,003 and $2,593,099, respectively, pursuant to the agreement. These expenses are recorded in the accompanying PDS statements of operations presented below net of $397,739 and $3,838, respectively, of legal fee reversals previously expensed and recorded as accounts payable to TPL during the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 as the statute of limitations had expired.

 

On July 11, 2012, we entered into the Program Agreement with PDS, TPL, and Alliacense, and an Agreement (the “TPL Agreement”) with TPL. Pursuant to the Program Agreement, PDS engaged Alliacense to negotiate MMP portfolio licenses and to pursue claims against violators of the MMP portfolio on behalf of PDS, TPL, and the Company. The Program Agreement continues through the useful life of the MMP portfolio patents. Pursuant to the TPL Agreement, we and TPL agreed to certain allocations of obligations in connection with the engagement of Alliacense.

 

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

 

Pursuant to the Program Agreement, PDS had committed to Alliacense a quarterly amount of $500,000 which represented the licensing services fees due Alliacense, subject to a contingency arrangement which provides for a percentage on future revenues, for its efforts to secure licensing agreements on behalf of PDS. Effective with the quarter ended February 28, 2014, PDS discontinued these payments (see Note 6). These payments had replaced the quarterly amounts previously paid to TPL pursuant to the Commercialization Agreement. During the three months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, PDS expensed $0 and $500,000, respectively, pursuant to this commitment and during the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, PDS expensed $956,353 and $1,315,000, respectively, pursuant to this commitment. These expenses are recorded in the accompanying PDS statements of operations presented below.

 

Pursuant to the Program Agreement PDS has committed to pay Alliacense litigation support fees relating to Alliacense’s special work and effort related to MMP maintenance and litigation support including support in the U.S. District Court and the complaints filed on behalf of TPL, PDS and us with the U.S. International Trade Commission (“ITC”) on July 24, 2012. During the three months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, PDS expensed $0 and $297,596, respectively, pursuant to this commitment and during the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, PDS expensed $180,413 and $1,751,117, respectively, pursuant to this commitment. Future litigation support payments to Alliacense relating to the ITC litigation are potentially subject to a contingency arrangement which provides for a percentage of future recoveries in these actions. These expenses are recorded in the accompanying PDS statements of operations presented below.

 

During the three months ended November 30, 2013, PDS paid Alliacense $300,000 against multiple outstanding disputed items (see Note 6.)

13
 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Investment in Affiliated Company (continued)

 

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

 

Based on our analysis of current authoritative accounting guidance with respect to our investment in PDS, we continue to account for our investment in PDS under the equity method of accounting, and accordingly have recorded our share of PDS’ net loss during the three months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 of $29,889 and $601,929, respectively, as a decrease in our investment. We received distributions of $375,000 and $1,150,000 from PDS during the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and we have recorded these distributions as a decrease in our investment. Our share of PDS’ net income during the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 was $356,930 and $75,666, respectively, which we have recorded as an increase in our investment.

 

We have recorded our share of PDS’ net income and loss for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 as “Equity in earnings (loss) of affiliated company” in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.

 

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

 

During the three and nine months ended February 28, 2013, PDS entered into licensing agreements with third parties, pursuant to which PDS received aggregate proceeds of $1,500,000 and $6,320,000, respectively.

 

At February 28, 2014, PDS had accounts payable balances of approximately $577,000, $25,000, and $81,000 to TPL, Alliacense, and PTSC, respectively.

 

At May 31, 2013, PDS had a prepaid balance to Alliacense of approximately $456,000 for advance payment of the June 1, 2013 quarterly payment less license fees earned. At May 31, 2013, PDS had accounts payable balances of approximately $1,494,000, $34,000, and $17,000 to TPL, Alliacense, and PTSC, respectively.

 

PDS’ balance sheets at February 28, 2014 and May 31, 2013 and statements of operations for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:

 

14
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Investment in Affiliated Company (continued)

 

Balance Sheets

 

Assets:

 

   February 28,
2014
   May 31,
2013
 
   (Unaudited)   (Audited) 
Cash  $1,179,754   $1,320,932 
Prepaid expenses   221,481    717,540 
Licenses receivable       250,000 
Total assets  $1,401,235   $2,288,472 

 

Liabilities and Members’ Equity:

 

   February 28,
2014
   May 31,
2013
 
   (Unaudited)   (Audited) 
Related party payables  $704,768   $1,544,075 
Income tax payable       11,790 
Members’ equity   696,467    732,607 
Total liabilities and members’ equity   $1,401,235   $2,288,472 

 

Statements of Operations

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   February 28,
2014
   February 28,
2013
   February 28,
2014
   February 28,
2013
 
   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited) 
Revenues  $   $1,500,000   $5,022,000   $6,320,000 
Expenses   59,777    2,703,857    3,901,740    6,168,668 
Operating income (loss)   (59,777)   (1,203,857)   1,120,260    151,332 
Income (loss) before provision for income taxes and foreign taxes   (59,777)   (1,203,857)   1,120,260    151,332 
Provision for income taxes and foreign taxes           (406,400)    
Net income (loss)  $(59,777)  $(1,203,857)  $713,860   $151,332 

 

15
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Investment in Affiliated Company (continued)

 

PDS Related Party Balances And Transactions

 

Balances with related parties as of February 28, 2014 and May 31, 2013 are summarized as follows:

 

   February 28, 2014   May 31, 2013 
   (Unaudited)     
Assets:        
Prepaid expenses (Advances to Alliacense)  $   $456,353 
Liabilities:          
Related party payables and accrued expenses (TPL) (1)  $577,092   $1,493,775 
Related party payables (PTSC)   80,745    16,538 
Related party payables (Alliacense)   24,597    33,762 
Total liabilities  $682,434   $1,544,075 

 

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

 

Transactions with related parties for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   February 28,
2014
   February 28,
2013
   February 28,
2014
   February 28,
2013
 
   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited) 
Expenses (reversed), paid or accrued (TPL)  $(7,432)  $1,684,915   $2,211,003   $2,778,099 
Expenses paid or accrued (Alliacense)       797,596    1,440,788    3,066,117 

 

Significant Contractual Legal Relationship

 

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

 

Accounts payable balances due this law firm and legal subcontractors as of February 28, 2014 and May 31, 2013 were $0 and $518,694, respectively.

 

Transactions with this law firm and legal subcontractors for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   February 28,
2014
   February 28,
2013
   February 28,
2014
   February 28,
2013
 
   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited) 
Legal costs  $   $1,670,850   $2,449,214   $2,560,361 

 

16
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Investment in Affiliated Company (continued)

 

Contractual Commitments

 

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

 

For the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014, PDS expensed $54,167 and $120,835, respectively, related to this agreement. For the three and nine months ended February 28, 2013, PDS expensed $150,000 related to this agreement.

 

In connection with the Program Agreement, PDS is required to make payments to Alliacense of $500,000 no later than three days prior to the start of each calendar quarter. Such payments are non-accountable and non-recoupable, but are offset against the licensing series fees owed to Alliacense pursuant to the Program Agreement. The continuation of these payments is under review (see Note 6). Upon six-months’ notice to Alliacense, and in conjunction with a proportionate reduction in the scope of the Project Description, as defined, PDS may determine to implement a maximum of advances not-yet-offset of $2,000,000.

 

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

 

4. Income Taxes

 

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

 

5. Stockholders’ Equity

 

Share Repurchases

 

During July 2006, we commenced our Board of Director-approved stock buyback program in which we repurchase our outstanding common stock from time to time on the open market. As part of the program we purchased 1,108,526 and 563,553 shares of our common stock at an aggregate cost of $84,129 and $57,140 during the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

17
 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

Stockholders’ Equity (continued)

 

Equity Transactions

 

The following table summarizes equity transactions during the nine months ended February 28, 2014:

 

   Common Stock    Additional Paid-in     Accumulated     Treasury  
   Shares    Amounts    Capital    Deficit    Stock 
Balance June 1, 2013   405,247,405   $4,382   $77,338,434   $(54,801,249)  $(14,404,394)
Share-based compensation           62,418         
Repurchase of common stock for treasury   (1,108,526)               (84,129)
Net loss               (815,648)    
Balance February 28, 2014   404,138,879   $4,382   $77,400,852   $(55,616,897)  $(14,488,523)

 

Stock Option Activity

 

As of February 28, 2014, we had 1,335,000 fully vested options outstanding pursuant to our 2006 Stock Option Plan exercisable at a range of $0.10 to $0.12 per share expiring through 2018.

 

On June 4, 2013, we issued 760,000 stock options from our 2006 Stock Option Plan with an exercise price of $0.12 to our employees and directors. The options vested immediately upon issuance.

 

During the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014, we recorded $0 and $62,418, respectively, of share-based compensation expense related to the stock options granted to PTSC directors and employees.

 

Share-based Compensation

 

Summary of Assumptions and Activity

 

The fair value of share-based awards to employees and directors is calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, even though this model was developed to estimate the fair value of freely tradable, fully transferable options without vesting restrictions, which differ significantly from our stock options. The Black-Scholes model also requires subjective assumptions, including future stock price volatility and expected time to exercise, which greatly affect the calculated values. The expected term of options granted is derived from historical data on employee exercises and post-vesting employment termination behavior. The risk-free rate selected to value any particular grant is based on the U.S. Treasury rate that corresponds to the pricing term of the grant effective as of the date of the grant. The expected volatility for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014 is based on the historical volatilities of our common stock. These factors could change in the future, affecting the determination of share-based compensation expense in future periods.

 

   

Three Months

Ended

February 28,

2014

(Unaudited)

  Nine Months
Ended
February 28,
2014
(Unaudited)
 

Three Months

Ended

February 28,

2013

(Unaudited)

 

Nine Months
Ended

February 28,
2013

(Unaudited)

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

 

* No stock options were granted during these periods.

18
 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

Stockholders’ Equity (continued)

 

A summary of option activity as of February 28, 2014 and changes during the nine months then ended, is presented below:

 

   Shares  

Weighted

Average

Exercise

Price

  

Weighted Average Remaining

Contractual

Term

(Years)

  

Aggregate

Intrinsic

Value

 
Options outstanding at June 1, 2013   750,000   $0.10           
Options granted   760,000   $0.12           
Options exercised      $           
Options forfeited/expired   (175,000)  $0.12           
 
Options outstanding at February 28, 2014
   1,335,000   $0.11    2.97   $ 
 
Options vested and expected to vest at February 28, 2014
   1,335,000   $0.11    2.97   $ 
 
Options exercisable at February 28, 2014
   1,335,000   $0.11    2.97   $ 

 

 

The weighted average grant date fair value of options granted during the nine months ended February 28, 2014 was $0.08 per option. There were no options granted or exercised during the nine months ended February 28, 2013.

 

The aggregate intrinsic value represents the differences in market price at the close of the quarter ($0.05 per share on February 28, 2014) and the exercise price of outstanding, in-the-money options (those options with exercise prices below $0.05) on February 28, 2014.

 

The following table summarizes our employee share-based compensation for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, which was recorded in selling, general and administrative expense as follows:

 

   Three
Months
Ended
   Nine
Months
Ended
   Three
Months
Ended
   Nine
Months
Ended
 
   February 28,
2014
   February 28,
2014
   February 28,
2013
   February 28,
2013
 
   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited) 
Selling, general and administrative expense  $    62,418   $   $ 
                     

 

19
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

6. Commitments and Contingencies

 

Litigation

 

Patent Litigation

 

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

 

The Court issued a first claim construction ruling in the N.D. Cal. Case on June 12, 2012, which preserved our ability to proceed on our infringement claims against Acer and HTC. Thereafter, Chief District Judge James Ware retired and the N.D. Cal. Case was reassigned to Magistrate Judge Paul S. Grewal, who held a supplemental claim construction hearing on November 30, 2012. Judge Grewal then issued a supplemental claim construction ruling on December 5, 2012, which preserved our ability to proceed with our infringement claims. On September 6, 2013 Acer entered into an MMP Portfolio license agreement that also provided for the dismissal of all claims in the N.D. Cal Case, as well as the filing of a joint motion to terminate Acer as a respondent in the ITC 853 Investigation (described more fully below). On September 19, 2013 the ‘890 patent was dropped from the N.D. Cal Case pursuant to stipulation by all parties. A jury trial was held in the N.D. Cal. Case against HTC, beginning on September 23, 2013. On October 3, 2013, the jury returned a verdict in favor of us and TPL, finding that HTC had infringed the ‘336 patent with damages of $958,560. HTC has appealed the jury verdict and we have filed cross appeals regarding the period available for infringement damages related to the ‘890 patent. The parties met with a magistrate for a settlement conference on April 8, 2014. As a result of that meeting, information is being shared and the parties are scheduled to meet again on May 7, 2014.

 

On July 24, 2012 complaints were filed on behalf of us, TPL, and PDS against Acer, Inc., Amazon.com, Inc., Barnes & Noble, Inc., Garmin, Ltd., HTC Corporation, Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., Kyocera Corporation, LG Electronics, Nintendo C., Ltd., Novatel Wireless, Inc., Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Sierra Wireless, Ltd. and ZTE Corporation with the U.S. International Trade Commission ("ITC") (ITC Investigation No. 337-TA-853, or the “853 Investigation”) alleging infringement of the ‘336 patent. We also filed new parallel proceedings in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California alleging infringement of the ‘749, ‘890 and ‘336 patents against Amazon.com Inc., Barnes & Noble Inc., Garmin Ltd., Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd., Kyocera Corporation, LG Electronics, Nintendo Co. Ltd., Novatel Wireless Inc., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Sierra Wireless Inc., and ZTE Corporation. We subsequently reached a settlement with Sierra Wireless, Inc. Trial proceedings before the ITC began on June 3, 2013 and concluded the following week. Settlements were subsequently reached with Kyocera Corporation, Amazon.com, Inc., and Acer, Inc. An Initial Determination (“ID”) was rendered on September 6, 2013 finding that none of the remaining Respondents had infringed the ‘336 patent. We filed a petition for review of the ID with the full ITC on September 23, 2013. On February 20, 2014, the ITC provided notice affirming the September 6, 2013 ID. We have until April 21, 2014 should we wish to file an appeal of the ITC decision to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. All of the district court actions against the new parties (i.e., all respondents other than Acer and HTC) that have not previously settled are currently stayed pending resolution of the 853 Investigation.

20
 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Commitments and Contingencies (continued)

 

Licensing Fee Disputes

 

In February 2013, PDS received a license fee installment attributable to the January 2013 satisfaction of a contingency contained in an MMP license agreement entered into in May 2012. Alliacense has asserted a claim against PDS for $300,000 under the premise that it is owed a percentage of the license fee installment pursuant to the Program Agreement it entered into with PDS, TPL and us in July 2012. TPL has also asserted a claim against PDS for $225,000 under the premise that it is owed a percentage of the license fee installment pursuant to the terms of the June 2005 Commercialization Agreement between PDS, TPL and us. Our position is that no percentage is due Alliacense as it had not been engaged for services at the time the May 2012 license agreement was entered into, and that it had no role in the satisfaction of the contingency that triggered the installment fee. Regarding TPL, our position is that a percentage to TPL could be justified, subject to, and fully offset by, advances previously made to it by PDS. We intend to vigorously defend our interest in PDS against the assertions made by Alliacense and TPL. 

 

In September 2013, Alliacense asserted it was owed amounts pursuant to a contingency provision of the Program Agreement it entered into with PDS, TPL and us in July 2012. We have requested Alliacense provide additional supporting information. Until such additional information is made available to us we cannot determine if the amounts as requested are owed.

 

Effective with the quarter ended February 28, 2014 and pursuant to positions taken by us, which have been communicated in detail to Alliacense, PDS discontinued the Program Agreement’s quarterly licensing service fees to Alliacense. We intend to vigorously defend our interest in PDS against assertions made by Alliacense in opposition to our position. 

 

In November 2013, PDS paid Alliacense $300,000 against the licensing fees, contingency amounts, and licensing service fees in dispute, as the parties’ obligations under the Program Agreement are assessed. We believe pursuant to the criteria defined in Accounting Standards Codification 450-20-50 Disclosure of Certain Loss Contingencies, it is reasonably possible that as a result of the amounts asserted, PDS could recognize additional charges to earnings through the date of this filing in the range of $0 to approximately $1,600,000. We have evaluated the potential for loss regarding these claims and believe that it is probable that the resolution of this issue will not result in a material obligation to the PDS, although there is no assurance of this.  Accordingly, we have not recorded a liability for this matter.

 

PDS Management Committee Arbitration

 

In January 2014, our representative to the PDS management committee filed with the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) a demand for arbitration pursuant to the terms of the LLC Agreement. The demand seeks the appointment of a third member, referred to as the independent manager member, to the PDS management committee. The AAA has appointed an arbitrator who will be responsible for selecting the independent manager from a listing of candidates supplied by each of the TPL and PTSC management committee members. We believe the appointment of the independent manager will facilitate decision-making in the best interests of PDS.

 

21
 

 

Patriot Scientific Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Commitments and Contingencies (continued)

 

401(k) Plan

 

Patriot has a retirement plan that complies with Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. All employees are eligible to participate in the plan. Patriot matches 100% of elective deferrals subject to a maximum of 4% of the participant’s eligible earnings. Patriot’s participants vest 33% per year over a three year period in their matching contributions. Patriot’s matching contributions during the three months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 were $3,642 and $2,739, respectively. Patriot’s matching contributions during the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 were $10,612 and $7,584, respectively.

 

Guarantees and Indemnities

 

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

 

Escrow Shares

 

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

 

7. Subsequent Events

 

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

 

During the period March 1, 2014 through April 9, 2014, we purchased 1,905,000 shares of our common stock at an aggregate cost of $94,904 pursuant to our stock buyback program.

 

22
 

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

 

THE FOLLOWING DISCUSSION AND THE REST OF THIS QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q INCLUDES FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS WITH RESPECT TO OUR FUTURE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE. ACTUAL RESULTS MAY DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE CURRENTLY ANTICIPATED AND FROM HISTORICAL RESULTS DEPENDING UPON A VARIETY OF FACTORS, INCLUDING THOSE DESCRIBED BELOW UNDER THE SUB-HEADING, "RISK FACTORS". SEE ALSO OUR ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K FOR THE YEAR ENDED MAY 31, 2013.

 

Overview

 

In June 2005, we entered into a series of agreements with TPL and others to facilitate the pursuit of unlicensed users of our intellectual property. In October 2011 we settled litigation with TPL that was initiated by us over matters related to the management of the MMP Portfolio. In July 2012 we entered into additional agreements with TPL, PDS and the TPL affiliate, Alliacense, in furtherance of the management and commercialization of the MMP Portfolio. The July 2012 Agreements (“July 2012 Agreements”) paved the way for an aggressive litigation strategy subsequently initiated on July 24, 2012 whereby Alliacense filed parallel actions with the ITC and in the U.S. District Court against multiple companies alleged to be infringers of the MMP portfolio. While we continue to believe that the significant investment in legal effort and costs incurred to date at PDS, in addition to this expanded litigation strategy, is necessary for the protection of our interests in the MMP portfolio and its future success, to date it has generated mixed results.

 

During fiscal 2013 and through the date of this filing, we and TPL each contributed $1,097,809 to fund the working capital of PDS. To the extent MMP portfolio license proceeds are insufficient, we expect working capital contributions to PDS to continue in the future. Cash shortfalls currently experienced by PDS will have an adverse effect on our liquidity. To date, we have determined that it is in the best interests of the MMP licensing program that we contribute our 50% share of additional capital to PDS to provide for PDS litigation support payments to Alliacense, in the event license revenues received by PDS are insufficient to meet these needs.

 

On April 9, 2014 PDS’ cash balance was $1,137,752. Management’s plans for the continued operation of PDS rely on the ability of Alliacense to obtain license agreements to cover the operational costs of PDS. Notwithstanding the November 30, 2012 and May 31, 2013 fiscal quarters, where licensing revenues were $4,370,000 and $6,250,000, respectively, PDS has experienced a decline in licensing revenues. In fact, Alliacense has not obtained any license agreements since September 2013 and it is unclear when any additional licensing revenues may be generated.

 

We believe that PDS should take action to ensure that Alliacense is maximizing the value of the MMP Portfolio. However, our and TPL’s representatives to the PDS management have not been able to agree on a course of action and no action has been taken with respect to Alliacense’s performance at this time. In January 2014, our representative to the PDS management committee filed with the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) a demand for arbitration seeking the appointment of a third member, referred to as the independent manager member, to the PDS management committee in an effort to eliminate the deadlock on this and other issues. PDS may not be able to take any action with respect to Alliacense’s performance, or on other matters, unless and until the independent manager is appointed.

 

On April 4, 2014, we were notified of the resignation of TPL's representative to the PDS management committee, and the concurrent appointment by TPL of its new representative to PDS.  While we are hopeful that this may relieve some of the decision deadlock at PDS, the impact of this action has yet to be determined.

 

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Further frustrating management’s plans for the continued operation of PDS, PDS has been notified by its current patent counsel that they are no longer able to work on a contingency basis. PDS and its current patent counsel are currently discussing alternative, hybrid hourly/contingency fee arrangements. While it is unclear whether PDS will come to an agreement with its current patent litigation counsel, it is reasonably likely that PDS’ legal fees will materially increase in the future. Additionally, a significant delay in revising the terms of PDS’ engagement of its current patent counsel or in engaging new counsel could result in material delays in the underlying litigation and delays in receiving any judgments resulting therefrom, if any.

 

In any event, management expects to continue to incur significant legal expenses for the continued operation of PDS. PDS has been incurring significant third-party costs for expert testimony, depositions and other related legal costs pursuant to litigation with HTC Corporation, and Acer, Inc., in U.S. District Court, and actions with the ITC Investigation No. 337-TA-853. The HTC and Acer U.S. District Court actions have largely concluded except for certain post-trial appeals pending in the HTC matter, and a ruling has now been issued by the ITC affirming its previous Initial Determination. However, as a result of any future litigation including actions against additional defendants in U.S. District Court which are currently stayed we could be required to make capital contributions to PDS for any future litigation related costs in the event that PDS does not receive sufficient licensing revenues to pay these expenses.

 

On March 20, 2013, TPL filed a petition under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. We have been appointed to the creditors’ committee and have been closely monitoring the progress in this matter as it relates to our interest in PDS. If we provide funding to PDS that is not reciprocated by TPL, our ownership percentage in PDS will increase and we will have a controlling financial interest in PDS, in which case, we will consolidate PDS in our consolidated financial statements. If we determine that it is appropriate to consolidate PDS, we would measure the assets, liabilities and noncontrolling interests of PDS at their fair values at the date that we have the controlling financial interest.

 

Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale

 

On February 17, 2012, our board of directors authorized management to sell the assets of PDSG due to the inability of PDSG to meet its business plan and continuing projected negative cash flows. In accordance with authoritative guidance we have classified the assets, operations and cash flows of PDSG as discontinued operations for all periods presented. During March 2012, we entered into an interim agreement with the purchaser of the assets of PDSG which required the purchaser to pay PDSG $93,450 to subsidize the April 2012 expenses of PDSG during the sale transaction negotiations. On April 30, 2012, we negotiated a sale transaction in which we sold substantially all of the assets of PDSG in exchange for a royalty on PDSG revenues for a period of three years. From April 30, 2012 to February 28, 2014, the gain on the asset sale of PDSG is approximately $45,000.

 

Summarized operating results of discontinued operations for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   February 28,
2014
   February 28,
2013
   February 28,
2014
   February 28,
2013
 
   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited) 
Operating loss from discontinued operations  $   $(761)  $   $(3,222)
Gain on sale of discontinued operations  $   $2,009   $40,583   $4,694 
Income before income taxes  $   $1,248   $40,583   $1,472 
Income from discontinued operations  $   $1,248   $40,583   $1,472 

 

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

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PDSG activity for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2013 consists of operating expenses for legal, insurance, taxes and bank fees offset by PDSG royalty revenues.

 

The following table summarizes the carrying amount at February 28, 2014 and May 31, 2013 of the major classes of assets of PDSG classified as discontinued operations:

 

   February 28, 2014   May 31, 2013 
   (Unaudited)     
Current assets:          
Other current assets  $15,000   $40,682 

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

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

 

1.        Investments in Marketable Securities

 

We determine the appropriate classification of our investments at the time of purchase and reevaluate such designation at each balance sheet date. Our investments in marketable securities have been classified and accounted for as available-for-sale based on management’s investment intentions relating to these securities. Available-for-sale marketable securities are stated at fair market value. Unrealized gains and losses, net of deferred taxes, are recorded as a component of other comprehensive income (loss). We follow the authoritative guidance to assess whether our investments with unrealized loss positions are other than temporarily impaired. Realized gains and losses and declines in fair value judged to be other than temporary are determined based on the specific identification method and are reported in other income (expense), net in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

 

2.        Investment in Affiliated Company

 

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

 

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

 

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

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3.       Share-Based Compensation

 

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

 

4.       Income Taxes

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

5.       Assessment of Contingent Liabilities

 

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

 

Results of Operations

 

Comparison of the Three Months Ended February 28, 2014 and Three Months Ended February 28, 2013.

 

   Three months ended 
   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2013 
Selling, general and administrative  $379,004   $345,111 

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased from approximately $345,000 for the three months ended February 28, 2013 to approximately $379,000 for the three months ended February 28, 2014. The increase consisted primarily of approximately $27,000 in legal fees.

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   Three months ended 
   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2013 
Other income (expense):          
Interest income  $2,458   $4,995 
Other income       26,250 
Equity in loss of affiliated company   (29,889)   (601,929)
Total other expense, net  $(27,431)  $(570,684)

 

Our other expense, (net) for the three months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 included equity in the loss of PDS of approximately $(30,000) and $(602,000), respectively. Our investment in PDS is accounted for in accordance with the equity method of accounting for investments. The reduction in the equity loss in the current quarter is attributable to the cessation of significant litigation related activity not covered by contingent cost agreements, coupled with the absence of licensing revenues for the period.

 

   Three months ended 
   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2013 
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes  $(406,435)  $(915,795)

 

Loss from continuing operations before income taxes decreased from approximately $(916,000) for the three months ended February 28, 2013 to approximately $(406,000) for the three months ended February 28, 2014 due to the change in equity in earnings of PDS.

 

Benefit for income taxes

 

During the three months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, we recorded a benefit for income taxes related to federal and California taxes of approximately $(10,400) and $(2,800), respectively.

 

Net loss

 

Our net loss for the three months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, was $(396,010) and $(911,721) respectively.

 

Comparison of the Nine Months Ended February 28, 2014 and Nine Months Ended February 28, 2013.

 

   Nine months ended 
   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2013 
Selling, general and administrative  $1,191,149   $975,344 

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased from approximately $975,000 for the nine months ended February 28, 2013 to approximately $1,191,000 for the nine months ended February 28, 2014. The increase consisted primarily of approximately $153,000 in legal fees and approximately $62,000 in stock based compensation expense.

   Nine months ended 
   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2013 
Other income (expense):          
Interest income  $3,623   $13,165 
Other income       217,618 
Realized recovery (loss) on marketable securities   (347)   55,873 
Equity in earnings of affiliated company   356,930    75,666 
Total other income, net  $360,206   $362,322 

 

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Our other income for the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 included equity in the earnings of PDS of approximately $357,000 and $76,000, respectively. Our investment in PDS is accounted for in accordance with the equity method of accounting for investments. The change in the earnings of PDS is due to the decrease in legal expenses and payments to Alliacense during the current period as compared to the prior period. Included in realized recovery on marketable securities for the nine months ended February 28, 2013 is approximately $56,000 of recovery on the $600,879 realized loss on sale of marketable securities relating to our auction rate securities recognized during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2011. Through February 2013 we have received proceeds totaling $403,325 relating to the recovery of our fiscal 2011 realized loss. Also included in interest and other income for the nine months ended February 28, 2013 is the one time receipt of proceeds associated with the settlement of certain litigation unrelated to our patent portfolio.

   Nine months ended 
   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2013 
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes  $(830,943)  $(613,022)

 

Loss from continuing operations before income taxes increased from approximately $(613,000) for the nine months ended February 28, 2013 to approximately $(831,000) for the nine months ended February 28, 2014 due to the change in equity in earnings of PDS.

 

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

 

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

 

During the nine months ended February 28, 2013 we recorded a benefit for income taxes related to federal and California taxes of approximately $(100).

 

Net loss

 

Our net loss for the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, was $(815,648) and $(611,437) respectively.

 

Results of Discontinued Operations

 

Comparison of the Three Months Ended February 28, 2014 and Three Months Ended February 28, 2013.

 

   Three months ended 
   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2013 
Selling, general and administrative  $   $761 

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased approximately $800 for the three months ended February 28, 2013 due to the sale of substantially all of the assets of PDSG in April 2012.

 

   Three months ended 
   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2013 
Other income:          
Interest and other income  $   $2,009 
Total other income  $   $2,009 

 

Interest and other income for the three months ended February 28, 2013 of approximately $2,000 consists of royalties earned for the period. On April 30, 2012, we negotiated a sale transaction in which we sold substantially all of the assets of PDSG in exchange for a royalty on PDSG revenues for a period of three years.

 

Income from discontinued operations, net

 

We recorded net income from discontinued operations of $0 and $1,248 for the three months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

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Comparison of the Nine Months Ended February 28, 2014 and Nine Months Ended February 28, 2013.

 

   Nine months ended 
   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2013 
Selling, general and administrative  $   $3,222 

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased approximately $3,000 for the nine months ended February 28, 2013 due to the sale of substantially all of the assets of PDSG in April 2012.

 

   Nine months ended 
   February 28, 2014   February 28, 2013 
Other income:          
Interest and other income  $40,583   $4,694 
Total other income  $40,583   $4,694 

 

Interest and other income of approximately $40,600 and $4,700 for the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, respectively, consists of royalties earned for the period. On April 30, 2012, we negotiated a sale transaction in which we sold substantially all of the assets of PDSG in exchange for a royalty on PDSG revenues for a period of three years.

 

Income from discontinued operations, net

 

We recorded net income from discontinued operations of $40,583 and $1,472 for the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Liquidity

 

Our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment balances decreased from approximately $7,767,000 as of May 31, 2013 to approximately $6,863,000 as of February 28 2014. We also have restricted cash balances amounting to approximately $21,000 as of May 31, 2013 and February 28, 2014. Total current assets decreased from approximately $8,040,000 as of May 31, 2013 to approximately $7,038,000 as of February 28, 2014. Total current liabilities amounted to approximately $278,000 and approximately $92,000 as of May 31, 2013 and February 28, 2014, respectively. The change in our working capital position as of February 28, 2014 as compared with May 31, 2013 results primarily from payment of our operating expenses.

 

Cash shortfalls currently experienced by PDS will have an adverse effect on our liquidity. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2013 and through the date of this filing we and TPL each contributed $1,097,809 in additional capital to fund the operations of PDS. To date we have determined that it is in the best interests of the MMP licensing program that we provide our 50% share of capital to provide for PDS expenses including legal retainers and litigation related payments, as well as licensing and litigation support payments to Alliacense, in the event license revenues received by PDS are insufficient to meet these needs. We believe it is likely that contributions to PDS to fund working capital will continue to be required.

 

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

 

Our current liquid cash resources as of February 28, 2014 are expected to provide the funds necessary to support our operations through at least the next twelve months. The cash flows from our interest in PDS represent our only significant source of cash generation. In the event of a continued decrease or interruption in MMP Portfolio licensing, we will incur a significant reduction to our cash position. It is highly unlikely that we would be able to obtain any additional sources of financing to supplement our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment position of $6,862,527 at February 28, 2014.

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On March 20, 2013, TPL filed a petition under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. We have been appointed to the creditors’ committee and have been closely monitoring the progress in this matter as it relates to our interest in PDS. In the event that we provide funding to PDS that is not reciprocated by TPL, which would result in our having a larger ownership percentage in PDS, we will have a controlling financial interest in PDS, in which case, we will consolidate PDS in our consolidated financial statements. If we determine that it is appropriate to consolidate PDS, we would measure the assets, liabilities and noncontrolling interests of PDS at their fair values at the date that we have the controlling financial interest.

 

Cash Flows From Operating Activities

 

Cash used in operating activities of continuing operations was approximately $1,263,000 and $686,000 for the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The principal components of the current period amount were net loss from continuing operations of approximately $856,000, the earnings of affiliated company of approximately $357,000 and changes in accounts payable and accrued expenses of approximately $207,000. These decreases were primarily offset by changes in prepaid expenses and other current assets of approximately $137,000, share-based compensation of approximately $62,000 and income taxes payable of approximately $21,000. The principal components of the prior period are the prior period net loss from continuing operations, changes in accounts payable and accrued expenses, earnings of affiliated company offset by changes in prepaid expenses and accounts receivable from affiliated company.

 

Cash provided by operating activities of discontinued operations was approximately $66,000 and $16,000 for the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Cash provided by discontinued operations activities relates to royalty revenue received during the period.

 

Cash Flows From Investing Activities

 

Cash used in investing activities for the nine months ended February 28, 2014 was approximately $431,000. Cash provided by investing activities for the nine months ended February 28, 2013 was approximately $907,000. Cash activities for the current period were primarily attributable to purchases and sales of marketable securities and distributions from PDS. Cash activities for the prior period were attributable to purchases and sales of marketable securities and contributions to and distributions from PDS.

 

Cash Flows From Financing Activities

 

Cash used in financing activities for the nine months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 was approximately $84,000 and $57,000, respectively. Cash activities for the current and prior periods were attributable to purchases of common stock for treasury.

 

Capital Resources

 

Our current liquid cash resources as of February 28, 2014, are expected to provide the funds necessary to support our operations through at least the next twelve months. The cash flows from our interest in PDS represent our primary significant source of cash generation. In the event of a continued decrease or interruption in MMP Portfolio licensing we will incur a significant reduction to our cash position. It is highly unlikely that we would be able to obtain any additional sources of financing to supplement our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment position of $6,862,527 at February 28, 2014.

 

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Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

During the nine months ended February 28, 2014, there were no recent issuances of accounting pronouncements as compared to those described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2013, that are of significance, or have potential material significance to us.

 

Risk Factors

 

We urge you to carefully consider the following discussion of risks as well as other information regarding our common stock. We believe the following to be our most significant risk factors as of the date this report is being filed. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones we face. Please refer to our risk factors contained in our Form 10-K for the year ended May 31, 2013 for additional risk factors.

 

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

 

On March 20, 2013 TPL filed a petition under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. While TPL’s petition does not at present affect the licensing agreement between PDS and Alliacense, PDS has incurred significant legal costs in matters before the U.S. District Court, and the actions with the ITC Investigation No. 337-TA-853, one or both of which have certain aspects which are ongoing. If PDS does not receive sufficient licensing revenues to pay these expenses, we may be required to pay these expenses. In the event the cost of legal actions exceeds our ability to fund these efforts, our options for additional sources of financing may be limited.

 

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

 

While TPL’s bankruptcy petition does not appear to affect the licensing agreement between PDS and Alliacense, the consequences of an approved plan of reorganization under Chapter 11, the appointment of a Chapter 11 trustee, or the conversion to a Chapter 7 proceeding may have consequences to PDS and the licensing program which are uncertain and potentially adverse. For example, a trustee may approve the sale of TPL’s interest in PDS to be sold to an unknown third party. It is unclear how that may affect the operation of PDS or the licensing program, but it may be adverse.

 

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

 

We have entered into license agreements through our joint venture with TPL and have reported income from the joint venture for the fiscal years 2006 to 2011 and 2013. The joint venture has recorded losses for the three and nine months ended February 28, 2014, and recorded no license revenues for the quarter then ended. Because of the uncertain nature of the negotiations that lead to license revenues, pending litigation with companies which we allege have infringed on our patent portfolio, the possibility of legislative action regarding patent rights, and the possible effect of new judicial interpretations of patent laws, we may not receive revenues from such agreements in the future consistent with amounts received in the past, and we may not receive future revenues from license agreements at all.

 

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

 

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

 

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We Are Involved In Multiple Disputes With Our Joint Venture Partner.

 

We are involved in multiple disputes with our joint venture partner TPL and its affiliate Alliacense, including objections over amounts invoiced by Alliacense to the joint venture and approval of reimbursements to us of amounts we incurred on the joint venture’s behalf. Since there currently are only two appointed managers of the joint venture, a deadlock exists on these and other issues that are unlikely to be resolved quickly. If the deadlock continues, the joint venture may not be able to take actions when appropriate or necessary. We have initiated a formal arbitration proceeding seeking the appointment of an independent manager to the management committee of the joint venture (see Note 6 to the condensed consolidated financial statements). We have concluded that a delay or failure to resolve the issues with TPL and Alliacense and to obtain the appointment of an independent manager may have a negative impact on the licensing program and PDS’ business.

 

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

 

PDS, our joint venture with TPL, which received a going concern opinion in its May 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 financial statements, has experienced significant declines in revenues while at the same time incurring significant legal costs associated with litigation with companies which we allege have infringed on our patent portfolio. Terms of the July 2012 licensing agreement with Alliacense will require TPL and us to fund PDS in the event PDS does not generate enough licensing revenue to cover the licensing and litigation support fees of Alliacense.

 

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

 

Our Microprocessor Patents Are In The Process Of Expiring.

 

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

 

A Successful Challenge To Our Intellectual Property Rights Could Have A Significant And Adverse Effect On Us. We Have Had Mixed Results In Our Litigation Efforts To Date.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

A single law firm has been engaged to defend and enforce our intellectual property rights on a contingency fee basis. We have been notified by that law firm that it is no longer able to work on a contingency basis. We are currently discussing alternative, hybrid hourly/contingency fee arrangements with that law firm. Any significant interruption in their services, or the loss of their services for any reason, would have a material adverse effect on our ability to defend and prosecute such lawsuits and, therefore, have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and result of operations. The law firm’s services could be disrupted for a variety of reasons, and any disruption would have a material adverse effect on our business. Our inability to engage the services of a new law firm in a timely manner could have a substantial negative effect on our business.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

As required by Rule 13a-15(b) under the Exchange Act, as of February 28, 2014, the end of the period to which this quarterly report relates, we have carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures. This evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Interim Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer.

 

Disclosure controls and procedures are controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives, and management necessarily applies its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.  Based on the evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of February 28, 2014, our management, with the participation of our Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of such date, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

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Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

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

 

PART II- OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

 

Patent Litigation

 

Our patent litigation with TPL and Alliacense Ltd. in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California against Acer, Inc., HTC Corporation and affiliated entities, as described in Item 3 – “Legal Proceedings” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended May 31, 2013 ("Annual Report"), has been settled as follows: on September 6, 2013 Acer entered into an MMP Portfolio license agreement that also provided for the dismissal of all claims in the N.D. Cal Case, as well as the filing of a joint motion to terminate Acer as a respondent in the ITC 853 Investigation. A jury trial was held in the N.D. Cal. Case against HTC, beginning on September 23, 2013. On October 3, 2013, the jury returned a verdict in favor of us and TPL, finding that HTC had infringed the ‘336 patent with damages of $958,560. HTC has appealed the jury verdict and we have filed cross appeals regarding the period available for infringement damages related to the ‘890 patent. The parties met with a magistrate for a settlement conference on April 8, 2014. As a result of that meeting, information is being shared and the parties are scheduled to meet again on May 7, 2014.

 

Our patent litigation with TPL and PDS in the ITC against Barnes & Noble Inc., Garmin Ltd., HTC Corporation, Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd., LG Electronics, Nintendo Co. Ltd., Novatel Wireless Inc., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., and ZTE Corporation, as described in Item 3 – “Legal Proceedings” in our Annual Report, is still ongoing. During August and September 2013, Kyocera Corporation and Amazon.com, Inc. settled their litigation in this matter with PDS. An Initial Determination (“ID”) was rendered on September 6, 2013 finding that none of the remaining Respondents had infringed the ‘336 patent. We filed a petition for review of the ID with the full ITC on September 23, 2013. On February 20, 2014, the ITC provided notice affirming the September 6, 2013 ID. We have until April 21, 2014 should we wish to file an appeal of the ITC decision to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors

 

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

 

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

 

On April 28, 2006, our Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program. We commenced the program in July 2006 and plan to repurchase outstanding shares of our common stock on the open market from time to time. As part of the program, we purchased 659,918 shares of our common stock at an aggregate cost of $44,120 during the three months ended February 28, 2014.

 

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Following is a summary of all repurchases by us of our common stock during the three month period ended February 28, 2014:

 

Period  Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased
   Average
Price
Paid per
Share
   Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
 
             
             
December 1 – 31, 2013      $     
January 1 – 31, 2014      $     
February 1 – 28, 2014   659,918   $0.07    659,918 
Total   659,918   $0.07    659,918 

 

The repurchase plan has no maximum number of shares or dollar amount and is solely at the discretion of the Board of Directors. The repurchase plan has no set expiration date.

 

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

 

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

 

None

 

Item 5. Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6. Exhibits

 

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

 

Those exhibits marked with a cross (†) refer to contracts with respect to which we have requested confidential treatment pursuant to Rule 24b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The confidential portions of such exhibits have been omitted and are marked accordingly and the confidential portions have been filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Exhibit No.

 

Document
2.1

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

   
3.1 

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

   
3.2 

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

   
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3.3 

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

   
3.3.1 

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

   
3.3.2 

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

   
3.3.3 

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

   
3.3.4 

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

   
3.3.5 

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

   
3.3.6 

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

   
3.3.7 

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

   
3.3.8

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

   
3.4

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

   
3.5

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

   
3.6

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

   
37
 

 

3.7

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

   
3.7.1

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

   
10.7

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

   
10.8

Agreement effective July 11, 2012 between Technology Properties Limited, LLC and the Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to our Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 11, 2012 (Commission file No. 000-22182).

   
10.9

Agreement effective July 17, 2012 among Phoenix Digital Solutions, LLC, Alliacense Limited, LLC, Technology Properties Limited, LLC, and the Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to our Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 11, 2012 (Commission file No. 000-22182).

   
31.1* 

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

   
31.2* 

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

   
32.1* 

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

   
101.INS** XBRL Instance Document
   
101.SCH** XBRL Schema Document
   
101.CAL** XBRL Calculation Linkbase Document
   
101.DEF** XBRL Definition Linkbase Document
   
101.LAB** XBRL Label Linkbase Document
   
101.PRE** XBRL Presentation Linkbase Document
   
** Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, these interactive data files are not deemed filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Section 11 or 12 of the Securities Act or Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act and otherwise not subject to liability
38
 

SIGNATURES

 

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

 

DATED:  April 14, 2014

PATRIOT SCIENTIFIC CORPORATION

 

/S/ CLIFFORD L. FLOWERS

Clifford L. Flowers

Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer

(Duly Authorized and Principal Financial Officer)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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