SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 

 
FORM 10-Q
 
x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934.
 
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2013
 
¨
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: 1-15831
 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
 
Delaware
 
11-2936371
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
 
600 California Street, 9th Floor
San Francisco, CA
 
94108
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
 
(Zip Code)
 
(415) 248-5603
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes x No  ¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes ¨ No x
 
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 definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
 
Large accelerated filer   ¨
Accelerated filer   ¨
 
Non-accelerated filer   ¨ 
Smaller reporting company   x
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes ¨ No x
 
The number of shares of Registrant’s common stock outstanding as of November 8, 2013 was 121,276,894.
 
 
 
 
 
Merriman Holdings, Inc.
Index
 
 
 
Page No.
PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
 
ITEM 1. Financial Statements (unaudited)
 
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations For the Three Months and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 and 2012
 
 3
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012
 
 4
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
 
5
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 and 2012
 
6
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
 
 7
ITEM 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
 24
ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
 34
ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures
 
 35
 
 
  
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
 
  
ITEM 1. Legal Proceedings
 
 36
ITEM 1A. Risk Factors
 
 37
ITEM 6. Exhibits
 
 38
Signatures
 
 39
Certifications
 
  
 
 
2

 
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1.  Financial Statements (unaudited)
 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(unaudited)
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commissions
 
$
1,057,800
 
$
1,716,268
 
$
3,276,160
 
$
4,615,763
 
Principal transactions
 
 
(96,157)
 
 
(294,326)
 
 
(60,779)
 
 
(277,428)
 
Investment banking
 
 
484,650
 
 
468,010
 
 
1,546,344
 
 
4,690,879
 
Advisory and other
 
 
483,041
 
 
569,555
 
 
1,629,559
 
 
1,415,138
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total revenues
 
 
1,929,334
 
 
2,459,507
 
 
6,391,284
 
 
10,444,352
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Compensation and benefits
 
 
1,531,207
 
 
2,279,700
 
 
5,530,637
 
 
9,660,592
 
Brokerage and clearing fees
 
 
95,218
 
 
158,199
 
 
297,994
 
 
438,782
 
Professional services
 
 
113,329
 
 
80,726
 
 
260,583
 
 
535,112
 
Occupancy and equipment
 
 
358,058
 
 
420,746
 
 
1,051,354
 
 
1,307,823
 
Communication and technology
 
 
194,667
 
 
240,808
 
 
537,942
 
 
815,202
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
 
39,899
 
 
5,590
 
 
46,900
 
 
16,530
 
Travel and entertainment
 
 
60,605
 
 
104,304
 
 
166,241
 
 
306,556
 
Legal services
 
 
303,601
 
 
159,544
 
 
369,645
 
 
495,329
 
Cost of underwriting capital
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
49,600
 
 
152,600
 
Other
 
 
328,115
 
 
9,971
 
 
895,618
 
 
901,475
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total operating expenses
 
 
3,024,699
 
 
3,459,588
 
 
9,206,514
 
 
14,630,001
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating loss
 
 
(1,095,365)
 
 
(1,000,081)
 
 
(2,815,230)
 
 
(4,185,649)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other income
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
15,000
 
Interest income
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
1,566
 
 
1,763
 
Interest expense
 
 
(81,849)
 
 
(64,513)
 
 
(248,894)
 
 
(179,116)
 
Amortization of debt discount
 
 
(35,370)
 
 
(30,290)
 
 
(109,561)
 
 
(87,027)
 
Loss on early extinguishment of debt
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
(293,347)
 
 
-
 
Loss on equity exchange
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
(1,086,329)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss before income tax
 
 
(1,212,584)
 
 
(1,094,884)
 
 
(3,465,466)
 
 
(5,521,358)
 
Income tax expense
 
 
(2,737)
 
 
-
 
 
(11,999)
 
 
-
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss
 
$
(1,215,321)
 
$
(1,094,884)
 
$
(3,477,465)
 
$
(5,521,358)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic and diluted net loss per share
 
$
(0.01)
 
$
(0.25)
 
$
(0.04)
 
$
(1.01)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average number of common shares
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic and diluted
 
 
118,957,830
 
 
4,307,809
 
 
80,554,586
 
 
5,459,375
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
3

 
 MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
(unaudited)
 
 
 
September 30,
 
December 31,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
507,768
 
$
1,316,990
 
Securities owned
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Marketable, at fair value
 
 
1,226,946
 
 
709,333
 
Not readily marketable, at estimated fair value
 
 
761,287
 
 
728,312
 
Restricted cash
 
 
891,828
 
 
680,028
 
Due from clearing broker
 
 
168,757
 
 
127,702
 
Accounts receivable, net
 
 
564,091
 
 
533,606
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
 
 
493,974
 
 
504,920
 
Capital lease assets, net
 
 
327,379
 
 
-
 
Equipment and fixtures, net
 
 
9,806
 
 
17,647
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total assets
 
$
4,951,836
 
$
4,618,538
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts payable
 
$
210,914
 
$
271,412
 
Commissions and bonus payable
 
 
122,715
 
 
403,978
 
Accrued expenses and other
 
 
522,702
 
 
661,144
 
Deferred rent
 
 
455,113
 
 
326,832
 
Deferred revenue
 
 
67,010
 
 
140,404
 
Capital lease obligations
 
 
348,841
 
 
-
 
Notes payable, net of debt discount
 
 
1,244,038
 
 
1,205,281
 
Notes payable to related parties, net of debt discount
 
 
1,904,320
 
 
2,075,888
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total liabilities
 
 
4,875,653
 
 
5,084,939
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shareholders’ equity
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Convertible preferred stock, Series A–$0.0001 par value; 2,000,000 shares
    authorized; 2,000,000 shares issued and 0 shares outstanding as of
    September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012; aggregate liquidation
    preference of $0
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
Convertible preferred stock, Series B–$0.0001 par value; 12,500,000 shares
    authorized; 8,750,000 shares issued and 0 shares outstanding as of
    September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012; aggregate liquidation
    preference of $0
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
Convertible preferred stock, Series C–$0.0001 par value; 14,200,000 shares
    authorized; 11,800,000 shares issued and 0 shares outstanding as of
    September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012; aggregate liquidation
    preference of $0
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
Convertible preferred stock, Series D–$0.0001 par value; 24,000,000
    shares authorized, 23,720,916 and 23,720,916 shares issued
    and 0 and 17,001,579 shares outstanding as of
    September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively;
    aggregate liquidation preference of $0
 
 
-
 
 
1,701
 
Convertible preferred stock, Series E–$0.0001 par value; 7,300,000
    shares authorized, 6,825,433 and 6,825,433 shares issued
    and 0 and 6,303,799 shares outstanding as of
    September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively;
    aggregate liquidation preference of $0
 
 
-
 
 
630
 
Common stock, $0.0001 par value; 300,000,000 shares authorized;
    120,943,561 and 5,425,149 shares issued and 120,914,125 and
    5,395,713 shares outstanding as of September 30, 2013 and
    December 31, 2012, respectively
 
 
12,095
 
 
543
 
Additional paid-in capital
 
 
148,683,949
 
 
144,673,121
 
Treasury stock
 
 
(225,613)
 
 
(225,613)
 
Accumulated deficit
 
 
(148,394,248)
 
 
(144,916,783)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total shareholders’ equity (deficit)
 
 
76,183
 
 
(466,401)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
 
$
4,951,836
 
$
4,618,538
 
 
 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
4

 
 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2013
(unaudited)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Additional
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred Stock
 
Common Stock
 
Treasury Stock
 
Paid-in
 
Accumulated
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
Capital
 
Deficit
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at January 1, 2013
 
23,305,378
 
$
2,331
 
5,425,149
 
$
543
 
(29,436)
 
$
(225,613)
 
$
144,673,121
 
$
(144,916,783)
 
$
(466,401)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(3,477,465)
 
 
(3,477,465)
 
Conversion of Series D Convertible
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred Stock to common stock
 
(17,001,579)
 
 
(1,701)
 
5,802,126
 
 
580
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
1,121
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
Conversion of Series E Convertible
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred Stock to common stock
 
(6,303,799)
 
 
(630)
 
6,303,799
 
 
630
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
Issuance of restricted common
    stock and warrants for
    cash
 
-
 
 
-
 
63,079,156
 
 
6,308
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
1,956,067
 
 
-
 
 
1,962,375
 
Issuance of restricted common
    stock and warrants in
    connection with debt
    conversion
 
-
 
 
-
 
40,333,331
 
 
4,034
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
1,499,314
 
 
-
 
 
1,503,348
 
Stock-based compensation
 
-
 
 
-
 
-
 
 
-
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
554,326
 
 
-
 
 
554,326
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at September 30, 2013
 
-
 
$
-
 
120,943,561
 
$
12,095
 
(29,436)
 
$
(225,613)
 
$
148,683,949
 
$
(148,394,248)
 
$
76,183
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
5

 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(unaudited)
 
 
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss
 
$
(3,477,465)
 
$
(5,521,358)
 
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
used in operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
 
9,160
 
 
16,530
 
Amortization of capital leases
 
 
21,462
 
 
-
 
Stock-based compensation
 
 
554,326
 
 
2,049,560
 
Amortization of debt issuance costs
 
 
109,561
 
 
87,027
 
Loss on early extinguishment of debt
 
 
293,347
 
 
-
 
Loss on equity exchange
 
 
-
 
 
1,086,329
 
Loss on sale of accounts receivable
 
 
-
 
 
7,000
 
Provision for uncollectible accounts receivable
 
 
152,429
 
 
245,275
 
Securities received for services
 
 
(354,087)
 
 
(290,767)
 
Unrealized loss on securities owned
 
 
113,683
 
 
564,291
 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Securities owned
 
 
(310,182)
 
 
713,684
 
Restricted Cash
 
 
(211,800)
 
 
-
 
Due from clearing broker
 
 
(41,055)
 
 
75,756
 
Accounts receivable
 
 
45,643
 
 
(120,510)
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
 
 
(217,612)
 
 
(447,227)
 
Accounts payable
 
 
(60,498)
 
 
86,318
 
Commissions payable
 
 
(281,263)
 
 
(652,116)
 
Accrued expenses and other
 
 
118,045
 
 
(1,485,189)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net cash used in operating activities
 
 
(3,536,306)
 
 
(3,585,397)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sale of note receivable
 
 
-
 
 
125,000
 
Sale of accounts receivable
 
 
-
 
 
500,000
 
Purchase of equipment and fixtures
 
 
(1,319)
 
 
(7,897)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net cash used in investing activities
 
 
(1,319)
 
 
617,103
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Issuance of note receivable
 
 
-
 
 
(125,000)
 
Proceeds from issuance of debt
 
 
166,028
 
 
375,000
 
Proceeds from issuance of restricted common stock
 
 
1,962,375
 
 
-
 
Proceeds from issuance of convertible promissory note
 
 
600,000
 
 
-
 
Proceeds from issuance of temporary subordinated borrowings
 
 
1,600,000
 
 
4,100,000
 
Repayment of temporary subordinated borrowings
 
 
(1,600,000)
 
 
(4,100,000)
 
Proceeds form issuance of preferred stock
 
 
-
 
 
459,576
 
Payment of preferred stock dividend
 
 
-
 
 
(42,061)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net cash provided by financing activities
 
 
2,728,403
 
 
667,515
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents
 
 
(809,222)
 
 
(2,300,779)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period
 
 
1,316,990
 
 
4,003,512
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period
 
$
507,768
 
$
1,702,733
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Supplementary disclosure of cash flow information:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash paid during the year:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest and cost of underwriting capital
 
$
236,027
 
$
268,852
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Non-cash financing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Issuance of common stock in connection with debt conversion
 
$
1,210,000
 
$
-
 
Conversion of Series D Preferred to common stock
 
$
-
 
$
-
 
Conversion of Series E Preferred to common stock
 
$
-
 
$
-
 
Warrants issued in connection with debt
 
$
-
 
$
77,792
 
Property and equipment acquired through capital leases
 
$
327,379
 
$
-
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
6

   
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(unaudited)
 
1. Description of Business
 
Merriman Holdings, Inc. (the Company) is a financial services platform company that provides capital markets advisory and research, corporate services, and investment banking through its wholly-owned operating subsidiary, Merriman Capital, Inc. (hereafter MC). MC is an investment bank and securities broker-dealer whose clients are fast growing public and private companies and the entrepreneurs that manage those companies. MC is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a broker-dealer and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC).
 
Basis of Presentation
 
The accompanying consolidated financial statements are presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S. GAAP). Under Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 855, Subsequent Events, the Company has evaluated all subsequent events until the date these consolidated financial statements were filed with the SEC.
 
For the purposes of presentation, dollar amounts displayed in these Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements were rounded to the nearest thousand.
 
The Company’s interim unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC. In the opinion of management, the condensed consolidated financial statements included in this report reflect all normal recurring adjustments that the Company considers necessary for the fair presentation of the consolidated results of operations for the interim periods covered and the consolidated financial condition of the Company at the date of the interim statements of financial condition. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. However, the Company believes all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary to make the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements not misleading have been included. The operating results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the operating results for the entire year. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s 2012 audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and on Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2012.

2. Liquidity/Going Concern
 
The Company incurred substantial losses during the first nine months of 2013, having net losses of $3,477,000 and negative operating cash flows of approximately $3,536,000. As of September 30, 2013, the Company had an accumulated deficit of $148,394,000. These facts raise substantial doubt as to the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.
 
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming the Company will continue on a going concern basis which contemplates the realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business and do not include any adjustments that might result from uncertainty about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.
 
Management’s plan to alleviate the going-concern uncertainty includes, but is not limited to, the issuance of equity and debt instruments for working capital. The Company’s continued existence is also dependent upon its ability to increase revenues generated from operations which will enable the Company to achieve a profitable level of operations.
 
If anticipated operating results are not achieved, management has the intent, and believes it has the ability, to further delay or reduce expenditures. In such case, the further reduction in operating expenses might need to be substantial. Failure to generate sufficient cash flows from operations, raise additional capital, or reduce certain discretionary spending would have a material adverse effect on the Company’s ability to achieve its intended business objectives. The Company can give no assurance that it will be successful in its plans and can give no assurance that additional financing will be available on terms advantageous to the existing terms or that additional financing will be available at all. Should the Company not be successful in obtaining the necessary financing to fund its operations, the Company would need to curtail certain or all of its operational activities and/or contemplate the sale of its assets if necessary.
 
 
7

   
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(unaudited)
 
2. Liquidity/Going Concern – continued
 
On March 28, 2013 and April 26, 2013, the Company issued 60,745,824 shares of common stock at $0.03 per share and 15,186,454 warrants for total proceeds of $1,822,375. In addition, the Company issued 40,333,331 shares of common stock at $0.03 per share and 19,249,998 warrants in connection with the conversion of $1,210,000 debt. (See Note 6)
 
On September 16, 2013, the Company issued 2,333,332 shares of common stock at $0.06 per share and 583,332 warrants for total proceeds of $140,000.

3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
 
Use of Estimates
 
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
 
Stock-Based Compensation Expense
 
The Company measures and recognizes compensation expense based on estimated fair values for all stock-based awards made to employees and directors, including stock options, restricted stock, and warrants. The Company estimates fair value of stock-based awards on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The value of the portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as expense in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations over the requisite service periods. Because stock-based compensation expense is based on awards that are ultimately expected to vest, stock-based compensation expense has been reduced to account 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.
 
To calculate stock-based compensation resulting from the issuance of options, restricted common stock, and warrants, the Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model, which is affected by the Company’s stock price as well as assumptions regarding a number of subjective variables. These variables include, but are not limited to, the Company’s expected stock price volatility over the term of the awards, and actual and projected employee stock option exercise behaviors. No tax benefits were attributed to the share-based compensation expense because a valuation allowance was maintained for all net deferred tax assets.
 
Earnings (Loss) Per Share
 
Basic earnings (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding, excluding shares of non-vested stock. Diluted income per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares used in the basic income per share calculation plus the number of common shares that would be issued assuming exercise or conversion of all potentially dilutive common shares outstanding, including non-vested stock. Diluted loss per share is unchanged from basic loss per share because the addition of common shares that would be issued assuming exercise or conversion would be anti-dilutive. Interest and dividends for convertible debt and convertible preferred stock are also not considered since including them in the calculation of diluted loss per share would be anti-dilutive.   
 
 
8

 
 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—CONTINUED
(unaudited)
 
3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies – continued
 
The table below represents a list of potentially dilutive securities outstanding as of September 30, 2013 and 2012:
 
 
 
September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
Series D convertible preferred stock warrants
 
3,388,677
 
 
3,388,677
 
Conversion of Series D preferred stock
 
-
 
 
6,358,872
 
Series E convertible preferred stock warrants
 
3,412,721
 
 
3,817,621
 
Conversion of Series E preferred stock
 
-
 
 
6,825,433
 
Stock options
 
12,796,463
 
 
3,040,532
 
Warrants issued in connection with Secured Promissory Notes
 
492,620
 
 
87,720
 
Warrants issued in connection with recapitalization
 
35,019,779
 
 
-
 
Other outstanding warrants
 
759,287
 
 
759,286
 
Potentially dilutive securities oustanding
 
55,869,547
 
 
24,278,141
 
 
Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
 
The Financial Accounting Standards Board, the Emerging Issues Task Force and the SEC have issued certain accounting standards updates and regulations as of September 30, 2013 that will become effective in subsequent periods; however, management of the Company does not believe that any of those updates would have significantly affected the Company’s financial accounting measures or disclosures had they been in effect during the period, and does not believe that any of those pronouncements will have a significant impact on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements at the time they become effective.
 
Securities Owned
 
Securities owned and securities sold, not yet purchased in the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition consist of financial instruments carried at fair value with related unrealized gains or losses recognized in principal transactions in the consolidated statement of operations. The securities owned are classified into “Marketable” and “Non-marketable.” Marketable securities are those that can readily be sold, either through a stock exchange or through a direct sales arrangement. Non-marketable securities are typically securities restricted under the Federal Securities Act of 1933 provided by SEC Rule 144 (Rule 144) or have some restriction on their sale whether or not a buyer is identified. 
 
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
 
Substantially all of the Company’s financial instruments are recorded at fair value or contract amounts that approximate fair value. The carrying amounts of the Company’s financial instruments, which include cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, due from clearing broker, accounts receivable, accounts payable, commissions and bonus payable, accrued expenses and other, securities sold, not yet purchased, deferred revenue, and capital lease obligation, approximate their fair values.
 
Fair Value Measurement—Definition and Hierarchy
 
The Company follows the provisions of ASC 820, Fair Value Measurement and Disclosures, for its financial assets and liabilities. Under ASC 820, fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., the “exit price”) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.
 
Where available, fair value is based on observable market prices or parameters, or derived from such prices or parameters. Where observable prices or inputs are not available, valuation models are applied. These valuation techniques involve some level of management estimation and judgment, the degree of which is dependent on the price transparency for the instruments or market and the instruments’ complexity. Assets and liabilities recorded at fair value in the consolidated statement of financial condition are categorized based upon the level of judgment associated with the inputs used to measure their fair value. Hierarchical levels, defined by ASC 820 and directly related to the amount of subjectivity associated with the inputs to fair valuation of these assets and liabilities, are as follows:
   
 
9

   
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—CONTINUED
(unaudited)
 
3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies – continued
 
Level 1 — Unadjusted, quoted prices are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date. The types of assets and liabilities carried at Level 1 fair value generally are G-7 government and agency securities, equities listed in active markets, investments in publicly traded mutual funds with quoted market prices and listed derivatives.
 
Level 2 — Pricing inputs (other than quoted prices included in Level 1) are either directly or indirectly observable for the asset or liability through correlation with market data at the measurement date and for the duration of the instrument’s anticipated life. Fair valued assets which are generally included in this category are stock warrants for which market-based implied volatilities are available, and unregistered common stock.
 
Level 3 — Pricing inputs are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable. These inputs generally reflect management’s best estimate of what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. Consideration is given to the risk inherent in the valuation technique and the risk inherent in the inputs to the model. Fair valued assets which are generally included in this category are stock warrants for which market-based implied volatilities are not available.
 
In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement falls in its entirety is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.
 
For further information on financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring and nonrecurring basis, and a description of valuation techniques, see Note 4.
 
  Concentrations and Credit Risk
 
Substantially all of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents are held at two major U.S. financial institutions. The majority of the Company’s cash equivalents consist of short-term marketable securities. Deposits held with banks may exceed the amount of insurance provided on such deposits. Generally, these deposits may be redeemed upon demand.
 
As of September 30, 2013, the Company held concentrated positions in three securities with total fair values of $1,176,000. The prices of these securities are highly volatile.
 
As of September 30, 2013, the Company held concentrated positions in accounts receivable with one client which exceeded 10% of total accounts receivable (approximately $80,000).
 
During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, two sales professionals accounted for more than 10% of total revenue (approximately $2,426,000) and one customer accounted for more than 10% of total revenue (approximately $731,000). During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, one sales professionals accounted for more than 10% of total revenue (approximately $1,670,000) and one customer accounted for more than 10% of total revenue (approximately $1,149,000).
 
The Company is also exposed to credit risk as it relates to the collection of receivables from third parties, including lead managers in underwriting transactions and the Company’s corporate clients related to private placements of securities and financial advisory services.
 
Subsequent Events
 
Under Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 855 – Subsequent Events, the Company has evaluated all subsequent events through the date these consolidated financial statements were issued. (See Note 12)
 
 
10

 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—CONTINUED
(unaudited)
 
4. Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities
 
Fair value is defined as the price at which an asset would sell for or an amount paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (the exit price). Where available, fair value is based on observable market prices or parameters or derived from such prices or parameters. Where observable prices or parameters are not available, valuation models are applied. These valuation techniques involve some level of management estimation and judgment, the degree of which is dependent on the price transparency for the instruments or the market on which they are primarily traded, and the instruments’ complexity. Assets and liabilities recorded at fair value in the consolidated statements of financial condition are categorized based upon the level of judgment associated with the inputs used to measure their fair value.  
 
A description of the valuation techniques applied to the Company’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis follows.
 
Corporate Equities
 
Corporate equities are comprised primarily of exchange-traded equity securities that the Company takes selective proprietary positions based on expectations of future market movements and conditions.
 
Also, as compensation for investment banking services, the Company frequently receives common stock of the client as an additional compensation to cash fees. The common stock is typically issued prior to a registration statement becoming effective. The Company classifies these securities as “not readily marketable securities” as they are restricted stock and may be freely traded only upon the effectiveness of a registration statement covering them or upon the satisfaction of the requirements to qualify under the exemption to Rule 144, including the requisite holding period. Once a registration statement covering the securities is declared effective by the SEC or the securities have satisfied the Rule 144 requirements, the Company classifies them as “marketable securities.”
 
Typically, the common stock is traded on stock exchanges and most are classified as Level 1 securities. The fair value is based on the observed closing stock price at the measurement date.  As of September 30, 2013, the fair value of this type of securities included in securities owned in the statements of financial condition is approximately $1,227,000. 
 
Certain securities are traded infrequently and therefore do not have observable prices based on actively traded markets.  These securities are classified as Level 3 securities, if pricing inputs or adjustments are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable. The Company determines the fair value of infrequently trading securities using the observed closing price at measurement date, discounted for the put option value calculated through the Black-Scholes model or similar valuation techniques.  Valuation inputs used in the Black-Scholes model include observable inputs such as interest rate, expected term and market price of the underlying stock, in addition to unobservable inputs such as stock volatility.
 
As of September 30, 2013, the fair value of this type of securities included in securities owned in the condensed consolidated statement of financial condition is $283,000. 
 
Stock Warrants
 
Also as partial compensation for investment banking services, the Company may receive stock warrants issued by the client.  If the underlying stock of the warrants is freely tradable, the warrants are considered to be marketable. If the underlying stock is restricted, subject to a registration statement or to satisfying the requirements for a Rule 144 exemption, the warrants are considered to be non-marketable. Such positions are considered illiquid and do not have readily determinable fair values, and therefore require significant management judgment or estimation.
 
The fair value of the stock warrants is determined using the Black-Scholes model or similar valuation techniques. Valuation inputs used in the Black-Scholes model include observable inputs such as interest rate, expected term and market price of the underlying stock, in addition to unobservable inputs such as stock volatility. Generally, a change in stock volatility results in a directionally similar change in fair value. As these require significant management assumptions, they are classified as Level 3 securities.
 
As of September 30, 2013, the fair value of this type of securities included in securities owned in the condensed consolidated statement of financial condition is approximately $453,000. 
   
 
11

 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—CONTINUED
(unaudited)
 
4. Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities – continued
 
Underwriters’ Purchase Options
 
The Company may receive partial compensation for its investment banking services also in the form of underwriters’ purchase options (“UPOs”). UPOs are identical to warrants other than with respect to the securities for which they are exercisable. UPOs grant the holder the right to purchase a “bundle” of securities, including common stock and warrants to purchase common stock. UPOs grant the right to purchase securities of companies for which the Company acted as an underwriter to account for any overallotment of these securities in a public offering. Such positions are considered illiquid and do not have readily determinable fair values, and therefore require significant management judgment or estimation.
 
The fair value of the UPO is determined using the Black-Scholes model or similar technique, applied in two stages. The first stage is to determine the value of the warrants contained within the “bundle” which is then added to the fair value of the stock within the bundle. Once the fair value of the underlying “bundle” is established, the Black-Scholes model is used again to estimate a value for the UPO. The fair value of the “bundle” as estimated by Black-Scholes in the first stage is used instead of the price of the underlying stock as one of the inputs in the second stage of the Black-Scholes. Valuation inputs used in the Black-Scholes model include observable inputs such as interest rate; stock expected term and market price of the underlying stock, in addition to unobservable inputs such as stock volatility. Generally, a change in stock volatility results in a directionally similar change in fair value. The use of the valuation techniques requires significant management assumptions and therefore UPOs are classified as Level 3 securities.
 
As of September 30, 2013, the fair value of this type of securities included in securities owned in the condensed consolidated statement of financial condition is approximately $25,000. 
 
Preferred Stock
 
Preferred stock represents preferred equity in companies. The preferred stock owned by the Company is convertible at the Company’s discretion. For these securities, the Company uses the exchange-quoted price of the common stock equivalents to value the securities. They are classified within Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the availability of an observable stock price on actively traded markets.
 
As of September 30, 2013, the fair value of this type of securities included in securities owned in the condensed consolidated statement of financial condition was deemed de minimis. 
 
Securities Sold, Not Yet Purchased
 
                      Securities sold, not yet purchased are comprised primarily of exchange-traded equity securities that the Company sold short based on expectations of future market movements and conditions. They are generally valued based on quoted prices from the exchange. To the extent these securities are actively traded, valuation adjustments are not applied and they are categorized in Level 1 liability of the fair value hierarchy.
 
                      The following table summarizes quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s Level 3 financial instruments:
                     
 
 
Valuation Technique
 
Unobservable Input
 
Range
 
Weighted Average
 
Financial instruments and other inventory positions owned:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stock warrants
 
Black-Scholes option pricing model
 
Stock volatility
 
69 - 372%
 
156%
 
Underwriters' purchase options
 
Black-Scholes option pricing model
 
Stock volatility
 
200%
 
200%
 
Preferred stock
 
Exchange-quoted price of common stock equivalents
 
Preferred stock to common stock conversion rate
 
1.6
 
1.6
 
 
 
12

 
  MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—CONTINUED
(unaudited)
 
4. Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities — continued
 
                      Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below:
 
 
 
Assets at Fair Value at September 30, 2013
 
 
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate equities
 
$
1,226,946
 
$
-
 
$
282,897
 
$
1,509,843
 
Stock warrants
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
452,906
 
 
452,906
 
Underwriters' purchase option
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
25,187
 
 
25,187
 
Preferred stock
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
297
 
 
297
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total securities owned
 
$
1,226,946
 
$
-
 
$
761,287
 
$
1,988,233
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Securities sold, not yet purchased
 
$
836
 
$
-
 
$
-
 
$
836
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total fair value liabilities
 
$
836
 
$
-
 
$
-
 
$
836
 
 
The following summarizes the change in carrying values associated with Level 3 financial instruments for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Underwriters'
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate
 
Stock
 
Purchase
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equities
 
Warrants
 
Options
 
Preferred Stock
 
Total
 
Balance at June 30, 2013
 
$
284,552
 
$
366,149
 
$
28,190
 
$
156
 
$
679,047
 
Purchases or receipt (a)
 
 
-
 
 
54,740
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
54,740
 
Gains (losses):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Realized
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
Unrealized
 
 
(1,655)
 
 
32,017
 
 
(3,003)
 
 
141
 
 
27,500
 
Balance at September 30, 2013
 
$
282,897
 
$
452,906
 
$
25,187
 
$
297
 
$
761,287
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in unrealized gains
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(losses) relating to instruments still held
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
at September 30, 2013
 
$
(1,655)
 
$
32,017
 
$
(3,003)
 
$
141
 
$
27,500
 
 
(a) Includes purchases of securities and securities received for services
 
 
13

 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—CONTINUED
(unaudited)
 
4. Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities – continued
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Underwriters'
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate
 
Stock
 
Purchase
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equities
 
Warrants
 
Options
 
Preferred Stock
 
Total
 
Balance at December 31, 2012
 
$
241,767
 
$
468,848
 
$
17,634
 
$
63
 
$
728,312
 
Purchases or receipt (a)
 
 
-
 
 
94,741
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
94,741
 
Sales or exercises
 
 
-
 
 
(40,426)
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
(40,426)
 
Gains (losses):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Realized
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
Unrealized
 
 
41,130
 
 
(70,257)
 
 
7,553
 
 
234
 
 
(21,340)
 
Balance at September 30, 2013
 
$
282,897
 
$
452,906
 
$
25,187
 
$
297
 
$
761,287
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to instruments still held at September 30, 2013
 
$
41,130
 
$
(70,257)
 
$
7,553
 
$
234
 
$
(21,340)
 
 
(a) Includes purchases of securities and securities received for services
 
Net gains and losses (both realized and unrealized) for Level 3 financial assets are a component of principal transactions in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.  
 
Transfers within the Fair Value Hierarchy
 
The Company assesses its financial instruments on a quarterly basis to determine the appropriate classification within the fair value hierarchy, as defined by ASC 820. Transfers between fair value classifications occur when there are changes in pricing observability levels. Transfers of financial instruments among the levels occur at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between our Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 classified instruments during the nine months ended September 30, 2013.
 
 
14

 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—CONTINUED
(unaudited)
 
5. Issuance of Debt
 
Convertible Secured Promissory Notes
 
On February 22, 2013 and December 28, 2012, the Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors loaned $600,000 and $500,000 to the Company in two convertible secured promissory notes (the “Convertible Notes”) maturing on November 22, 2013 and September 28, 2013, respectively, bearing interest rates at eight percent (8%) per annum payable at maturity. Each Convertible Note is secured pursuant to a certain Stock Pledge Agreement dated December 13, 2012 and includes a conversion feature which provides for the note to automatically convert into the Company’s common shares upon the consummation of a “Qualified Financing,” defined as an equity investment in one or a series of related transactions resulting in not less than $2,000,000, including the amount converted under the Convertible Notes. The number of common shares issued will be equal to the Convertible Notes’ principals divided by the price per share paid by the investors in the Qualified Financing. (See Notes 5.a below and Note 6)
               
Debt Conversion
 
a.     Conversion of Convertible Secured Promissory Notes
 
                The March 28, 2013 sale of common stock (see Note 6) was the catalyst to the Qualified Financing, triggering an automatic conversion of the Convertible Notes into the Company’s common shares at $0.03 per share. For every two common shares purchased by means of surrender of the Convertible Notes, the holder received a warrant to purchase one share of common stock at $0.04 per share, for a term of five years. A total of 36,666,666 common shares and 18,333,333 warrants were issued.
 
The Company accounted for this transaction in accordance with ASC 470, Debt, as an extinguishment of debt, whereby a gain or loss was calculated as the difference between the reacquisition price and net carrying value of the debt. The reacquisition price was determined as the sum of the fair value of the common stock and new warrants. The warrants were valued using the Black-Scholes fair value model.
 
For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, a loss of approximately $267,000 was recorded on the transaction based on a reacquisition price of approximately $1,367,000 and fair value of the debt exchanged of approximately $1,100,000.
 
b.     Conversion of Subordinated Notes Payable
 
On March 28, 2013, certain subordinated notes payable holders, all of whom are directors and officers of the Company, agreed to convert $110,000 subordinated notes payable into the Company’s common shares at $0.03 per share. For every four common shares purchased by means of surrender of the subordinated notes payable, the holders received a warrant to purchase one share of common stock at $0.04 per share, for a term of five years. A total of 3,666,665 common shares and 916,665 warrants were issued.
 
  The Company accounted for this transaction in accordance with ASC 470, Debt, as an extinguishment of debt, whereby a gain or loss was calculated as the difference between the reacquisition price and net carrying value of the debt. The reacquisition price was determined as the sum of the fair value of the common stock and new warrants. The warrants were valued using the Black-Scholes fair value model.
 
For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, a loss of approximately $26,000 was recorded on the transaction based on a reacquisition price of approximately $136,000 and fair value of the debt exchanged of approximately $106,000.
 
 
 
15

 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—CONTINUED
(unaudited)
 
5. Issuance of Debt — continued
 
Secured Promissory Notes
 
On December 13, 2012, an unrelated party and the Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors loaned $300,000 and $200,000 to the Company in two secured promissory notes (the “Secured Notes”) maturing on June 13, 2013, respectively, bearing interest rates at eight percent (8%) per annum payable at maturity. On June 13, 2013, the Secured Notes were extended to July 8, 2013 at the same terms. On July 8, 2013, while interest rates remain un-changed, the Secured Notes’ maturity dates were extended as follows:
 
 
 
 
Maturity Dates
 
Principal
 
31-Oct-13
 
31-Dec-13
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
300,000
 
$
100,000
 
$
200,000
 
$
200,000
 
$
66,667
 
$
133,333
 
 
On September 26, 2013, the $200,000 note was further extended to mature on March 31, 2014 with the interest rate increased to ten percent (10%) per annum payable at maturity.
 
On September 12, 2013 the Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors loaned $166,028 to the Company in a secured promissory note  maturing on February 7, 2014, bearing interest rates at ten percent (10%) per annum payable at maturity. 

6. Capital Leases
 
During the third quarter of 2013, the Company entered into certain leases for a portion of its property and equipment with various financing institutions and equipment providers for periods ranging from three to four years. 
The following is an analysis of the leased assets included in capital lease assets at September 30, 2013 and 2012.
 
 
 
September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property and equipment
 
$
365,118
 
$
-
 
Less: accumulated depreciation
 
 
(37,739)
 
 
-
 
Capital lease assets, net
 
$
327,379
 
$
-
 
 
                Capital lease liabilities to financial institutions and equipment providers are due in monthly installments totaling $10,000, including fixed interest rates varying from 8.00% to 9.00%.  Maturity of the capital leases vary from May 2016 to May 2017.  As of September 30, 2013 and 2012, the outstanding capital lease liabilities were $349,000 and $0, respectively.
 
                Interests related to these capital leases charged to interest expenses totaled $9,000 and $0, for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
 
                The following is a schedule by years of future minimum payments required under the capital leases together with their present value as of September 30, 2013:
 
 
 
Amount
 
 
 
 
 
 
2013
 
$
35,260
 
2014
 
 
119,762
 
2015
 
 
119,762
 
2016
 
 
90,376
 
2017
 
 
26,597
 
Thereafter
 
 
-
 
Total minimum lease payments
 
 
391,757
 
Less: amount representing interest
 
 
(42,916)
 
Net commitments
 
$
348,841
 
 
 
16

 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—CONTINUED
(unaudited)
 
7.  Shareholders’ Equity
 
Sale of Common Stock
 
On March 28, 2013 and April 26, 2013, the Company entered into a definitive agreement (the “Stock Purchase Agreement”) for the sale and issuance of 60,745,824 common shares at $0.03 per share, resulting in total proceeds to the Company of $1,822,375. For every four common shares purchased, the investors received a warrant to purchase one share of common stock at $0.04 per share, for a term of five years. A total of 15,186,454 warrants were issued.
 
The total proceeds of $1,822,375 is accounted for as an issuance of common stock with warrants and was allocated to the individual instruments based on the relative fair value of each instrument at the time of issuance. Based on such allocation method, the values allocated to common stock and warrants were $1,466,000 and $356,000, respectively.
 
On September 16, 2013, the Company entered into a definitive agreement (the “Stock Purchase Agreement”) for the sale and issuance of 2,333,332 common shares at $0.06 per share, resulting in total proceeds to the Company of $140,000. For every four common shares purchased, the investors received a warrant to purchase one share of common stock at $0.08 per share, for a term of five years. A total of 583,332 warrants were issued.
 
The total proceeds of $140,000 is accounted for as an issuance of common stock with warrants and was allocated to the individual instruments based on the relative fair value of each instrument at the time of issuance. Based on such allocation method, the values allocated to common stock and warrants were $113,000 and $27,000, respectively.
 
Conversion of Series D and E Convertible Preferred Stock to Common Stock
 
In connection with the sale of common stock described above, the Investors Rights Agreement dated September 9, 2009 by and among the Company and investors in its Series D Convertible Preferred Stock was terminated and a new Voting Agreement dated March 28, 2013 was entered into.
 
On March 28, 2013, all outstanding shares of Series D and Series E Convertible Preferred Stock of the Company were converted into shares of common stock. Each share of Series D Convertible Preferred Stock was converted into 0.34127 share of common stock. Each share of Series E Convertible Preferred Stock was converted into one share of common stock. At the time of the conversion, all dividends accumulated but not declared on the Series D and series E Convertible Preferred Stock were canceled.
 
On March 28, 2013, 17,001,579 shares of Series D Convertible Preferred Stock and 6,303,799 shares of Series E Convertible Preferred Stock were converted into 5,802,126 and 6,303,799 shares of common stock, respectively.
 
 
17

 
8. Stock-based Compensation Expense
 
Stock Options
 
The following table is a summary of the Company’s stock option activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2013:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted-
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exercise
 
 
 
Shares
 
 
Price
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Outstanding at December 31, 2012
 
3,005,532
 
$
0.76
 
Granted
 
9,985,000
 
 
0.12
 
Exercised
 
-
 
 
-
 
Expired
 
(194,069)
 
 
(0.64)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Outstanding at September 30, 2013
 
12,796,463
 
$
0.26
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exercisable at September 30, 2013
 
3,624,233
 
$
0.42
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Vested and expected to vest as of September 30, 2013
 
9,022,446
 
 
 
 
 
During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company granted 9,985,000 options to purchase common shares at exercise prices of $0.12 and $0.20. The options vest in 3 and 4 years and have a fair value of $300,000.
 
Compensation expense for stock options during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 was approximately $540,000 and $1,425,000, respectively. As of September 30, 2013, total unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested stock options was approximately $863,000. This amount is expected to be recognized as expense over a weighted-average period of 2.24 years.
 
 
18

 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—CONTINUED
(unaudited)
 
8. Stock-based Compensation Expense — continued
 
Restricted Stock
 
At the date of grant, the recipients of restricted stock have most of the rights of a stockholder other than voting rights, subject to certain restrictions on transferability and a risk of forfeiture. Restricted shares typically vest over a two to four year period beginning on the date of grant. The fair value of each restricted stock award is based on the market value of the Company’s stock on the date of grant. The Company recognizes the compensation expense for restricted stock on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period.
 
The following table is a summary of the Company's restricted stock activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2013:
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted-
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restricted
 
Average
 
Aggregate
 
 
 
Stock
 
Grant Date
 
Intrinsic
 
 
 
Outstanding
 
Fair Value
 
Value
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance as of December 31, 2012
 
257,660
 
$
0.58
 
$
110,794
 
Granted
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
 
 
Vested
 
(4,595)
 
 
(2.72)
 
 
 
 
Cancelled
 
(250,000)
 
 
(0.51)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance as of September 30, 2013
 
3,065
 
$
2.72
 
$
307
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Vested and expected to vest as of September 30, 2013
 
2,943
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Compensation expense for restricted stock during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 was approximately $14,000 and $625,000, respectively. As of September 30, 2013, total unrecognized compensation expense related to restricted stock was approximately $5,000. This expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.14 years. There was no restricted stock granted for the nine months ended September 30, 2013.

9. Regulatory Requirements
 
MC is a broker-dealer subject to Rule 15c3-1 of the SEC which specifies uniform minimum net capital requirements, as defined, for their registrants. As of September 30, 2013, MC had regulatory net capital, as defined, of approximately $728,000 which exceeded the amount required by approximately $478,000. MC complies with the alternative net capital requirement allowed in Appendix E of Rule 15c3-1. MC is exempt from Rules 15c3-3 and 17a-13 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 because it does not carry customer accounts nor does it hold customer securities or cash. 
 
Under its rules, FINRA may prohibit a member firm from expanding its business or paying dividends if resulting net capital would be less than 5 percent of aggregate debit balances. Advances to affiliates, repayment of subordinated debt, dividend payments and other equity withdrawals by MC are subject to certain notification and other provisions of the SEC and FINRA rules. In addition, MC is subject to certain notification requirements related to withdrawals of excess net capital.
 
 
19

 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—CONTINUED
(unaudited)
 
10. Litigation
 
Del Biaggio/Cacchione Matters
 
A number of lawsuits were filed against the Company and MC (collectively, “Merriman Parties”), in connection with the actions of William Del Biaggio III (Del Biaggio), a former customer of MC, and David Scott Cacchione (Cacchione), a former retail broker of MC in 2088 and years prior. Del Biaggio and Cacchione pleaded guilty to securities fraud and were subsequently imprisoned. All of these lawsuits have been settled or dismissed. During the quarter ended September 30, 2013 and subsequently, developments in lawsuits against the Merriman Parties in connection with Cacchione’s activities are as follows:
 
Trustee for the Bankruptcy estates of William James “Boots” Del Biaggio and BDB Management, LLC v. Merriman Capital, Inc. and D. Jonathan Merriman
 
On September 2, 2011, a complaint was filed in FINRA arbitration against MC and D. Jonathan Merriman by the bankruptcy estates of William James “Boots” Del Biaggio III and BDB Management, LLC. The complaint alleged various causes of action arising from alleged unauthorized trading and cross collateralization in plaintiff’s accounts at MC and sought damages of $7.2 million. On November 2, 2011, MC filed an answer to the complaint on its behalf and D. Jonathan Merriman’s, denying the allegations and asserting, among other things, the right to set off damages caused to the Merriman Parties by Del Biaggio, who is currently serving an eight year sentence in federal prison for fraud, in an amount well in excess of plaintiff’s alleged damages. In August 2013, the parties entered into a settlement agreement and release, and the case was dismissed. The settlement amount was fully accrued for and included in the consolidated statement of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2013.
 
Khachaturian, Peterson and Salvi v. Merriman Capital, Inc. and Merriman Holdings, Inc.
 
Complaints were filed in the San Francisco County Superior Court, California by Henry Khachaturian in January 2011, by Chuck Peterson in February 2010 and by Dolores Salvi in October 2010. The complaints also named as defendants the Company’s officers and former officers D. Jonathan Merriman, Gregory Curhan, and Robert Ford. Messrs. Curhan and Ford were dropped from the case in January 2011. The complaints were consolidated into one case in March 2011. The complaints alleged that plaintiffs were convinced by the Company to purchase shares of a small, risky stock in which MC held a position.  It further alleged that the Company did not permit plaintiffs to sell the shares when the stock’s price fell. In October 2013, the parties entered into a settlement agreement and release, and the case was dismissed.
 
Additionally, from time to time, the Company is involved in ordinary routine litigation incidental to our business.

11. Related Party Transactions
 
Temporary Subordinated Borrowings
 
On March 4, 2013, the Company borrowed $400,000 from the Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors. The loan was in the form of a temporary subordinated loan in accordance with Rule 15c3-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Total fees incurred were $24,800, which amount was included in cost of underwriting capital in the Company’s condensed consolidated statement of operations. The loan and related fees were paid in full on April 5, 2013.
 
On January 31, 2013, the Company borrowed $1,200,000 from the Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors. The loan was in the form of a temporary subordinated loan in accordance with Rule 15c3-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Total fees incurred were $52,800, which amount was included in cost of underwriting capital in the Company’s condensed consolidated statement of operations. The loan and related fees were paid in full on February 22, 2013.
 
 
20

 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—CONTINUED
(unaudited)
 
11. Related Party Transactions — continued
 
Convertible Secured Promissory Notes
 
On February 22, 2013 and December 28, 2012, the Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors loaned $600,000 and $500,000 to the Company in two convertible secured promissory notes (the “Convertible Notes”) maturing on November 22, 2013 and September 28, 2013, respectively, bearing interest rates at eight percent (8%) per annum payable at maturity. Each Convertible Note is secured pursuant to a certain Stock Pledge Agreement dated December 13, 2012 and includes a conversion feature which provides for the note to automatically convert into the Company’s common shares upon the consummation of a “Qualified Financing,” defined as an equity investment in one or a series of related transactions resulting in not less than $2,000,000, including the amount converted under the Convertible Notes. The number of common shares issued will be equal to the Convertible Notes’ principals divided by the price per share paid by the investors in the Qualified Financing. (See Note 5)
 
Secured Promissory Notes
 
On December 13, 2012, the Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors loaned $200,000 to the Company in a secured promissory notes (the “Secured Note”) maturing on September 13, 2013 and bearing interest rates at eight percent (8%) per annum payable at maturity. On September 13, 2013, the Secured Note was extended to July 8, 2013 at the same terms. On July 8, 2013, while interest rate remains unchanged, the Secured Note’s maturity date was extended as follows:
 
 
 
 
Maturity Dates
 
Principal
 
31-Oct-13
 
31-Dec-13
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
200,000
 
$
66,667
 
$
133,333
 
 
On September 26, 2013, the $200,000 note was further extended to mature on March 31, 2014 with the interest rate increased to ten percent (10%) per annum payable at maturity.
 
On September 12, 2013 the Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors loaned $166,028 to the Company in a secured promissory note  maturing on February 7, 2014, bearing interest rates at ten percent (10%) per annum payable at maturity. 
 
Debt Conversion
 
a.     Conversion of Convertible Secured Promissory Notes
 
                The March 28, 2013 sale of common stock (see Note 6) was the impetus to the Qualified Financing specified in the Convertible Notes, triggering an automatic conversion of the Convertible Notes into the Company’s common shares at $0.03 per share. For each common share purchased by means of surrender of the Convertible Notes, the holder received a warrant to purchase 0.50 share of common stock at $0.04 per share, for a term of five years. A total of 36,666,666 common shares and 18,333,333 warrants were issued.
 
The Company accounted for this transaction in accordance with ASC 470, Debt, as an extinguishment of debt, whereby a gain or loss was calculated as the difference between the reacquisition price and net carrying value of the debt. The reacquisition price was determined as the sum of the fair value of the common stock and new warrants. The warrants were valued using the Black-Scholes fair value model.
 
For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, a loss of approximately $267,000 was recorded on the transaction based on a reacquisition price of approximately $1,367,000 and fair value of the debt exchanged of approximately $1,100,000.
 
 
21

 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—CONTINUED
(unaudited)
 
11. Related Party Transactions — continued
 
b.     Conversion of Subordinated Notes Payable
 
On March 28, 2013, certain subordinated notes payable holders, all of whom are directors and officers of the Company, agreed to convert $110,000 subordinated notes payable into the Company’s common shares at $0.03 per share. For each common share purchased by means of surrender of the subordinated notes payable, the holders received a warrant to purchase 0.25 share of common stock at $0.04 per share, for a term of five years. A total of 3,666,665 common shares and 916,665 warrants were issued.
 
  The Company accounted for this transaction in accordance with ASC 470, Debt, as an extinguishment of debt, whereby a gain or loss was calculated as the difference between the reacquisition price and net carrying value of the debt. The reacquisition price was determined as the sum of the fair value of the common stock and new warrants. The warrants were valued using the Black-Scholes fair value model.
 
For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, a loss of approximately $26,000 was recorded on the transaction based on a reacquisition price of approximately $136,000 and fair value of the debt exchanged of approximately $106,000.
 
Other Related Party Transactions
 
From time to time, officers and employees of the Company may invest in private placements which the Company arranges and for which the Company charges investment banking fees.
 
The Company’s employees may, at times, provide certain services and supporting functions to its affiliate entities. The Company is not reimbursed for any costs related to providing those services.

12. Segment Reporting
 
The Company’s business results are categorized into three operating segments: MC, FEP and CMAG. The Company's reportable segments are strategic business units that offer products and services which are compatible with its core business strategy.  The MC segment includes a broad range of services, such as capital raising and financial advisory services for corporate clients, and brokerage and equity research services for our institutional investor clients. The FEP segment includes capital raising services through a network of independent investment bankers and CMAG includes assisting corporate issuers in listing on OTCQX, the premier OTC Market tier, along with other services that facilitate the access to institutional capital markets.
 
The accounting policies of the segments are consistent with those described in the Significant Accounting Policies in Note 3. The Company evaluates segment results based on revenue and segment income. There are no revenue-generating activities between segments.  Segment asset disclosures are not provided as no significant assets are separately determinable for FEP or CMAG. Revenue and expenses directly associated with each segment are included in determining segment income, which is also the internal performance measure used by management to assess the performance of each business in a given period. 
 
Consolidation items and eliminations include the effects of eliminating transactions between operating segments, and certain non-allocated amounts. Consolidation items and elimination is not an operating segment. Rather, it is added to operating segment totals to reconcile to consolidated totals on the financial statements. Certain amounts included in consolidation items and elimination costs are not allocated to operating segments because they are excluded from the measurement of their operating performance for internal purposes. These include Board of Directors compensation, interest on general borrowings, litigation settlement costs and other charges.
 
 
22

 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—CONTINUED
(unaudited)
 
12. Segment Reporting — continued
 
Management believes that the following information provides a reasonable representation of each segment’s contribution to revenue and loss or operating results:
 
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
MC
 
$
1,034,487
 
$
1,706,682
 
$
3,987,787
 
$
8,054,476
 
FEP
 
 
417,344
 
 
233,833
 
 
835,012
 
 
1,125,469
 
CMAG
 
 
477,508
 
 
515,972
 
 
1,569,666
 
 
1,233,552
 
Total segment revenues
 
 
1,929,339
 
 
2,456,487
 
 
6,392,465
 
 
10,413,497
 
Consolidation items and elimination
 
 
(6)
 
 
3,020
 
 
(1,181)
 
 
30,855
 
Consolidated revenues
 
$
1,929,333
 
$
2,459,507
 
$
6,391,284
 
$
10,444,352
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Segment loss
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
MC
 
$
(1,194,186)
 
$
(1,471,808)
 
$
(3,950,159)
 
$
(5,023,782)
 
FEP
 
 
105,389
 
 
23,383
 
 
276,811
 
 
110,192
 
CMAG
 
 
245,338
 
 
437,416
 
 
1,126,014
 
 
744,412
 
Total segment loss
 
 
(843,459)
 
 
(1,011,009)
 
 
(2,547,334)
 
 
(4,169,178)
 
Consolidation items and elimination
 
 
(369,125)
 
 
(83,875)
 
 
(918,132)
 
 
(1,352,180)
 
Consolidated net loss before income taxes
 
$
(1,212,584)
 
$
(1,094,884)
 
$
(3,465,466)
 
$
(5,521,358)
 
 
Substantially all of the reported revenues are from customers located in the United States and all of our long-lived assets are located in the United States.
 
 
23

 
 
ITEM 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, including this Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contains forward-looking statements regarding future events and our future results that are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections about the industries in which we operate and the beliefs and assumptions of our management. Words such as “may,” “should,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “targets,” “goals,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential” or “continue,” variations of such words, and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. In addition, any statements that refer to projections of our future financial performance, our anticipated growth and trends in our businesses, and other characterizations of future events or circumstances, are forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are only predictions and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual results may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Readers are referred to risks and uncertainties identified under Risk Factors” beginning on page 36 and elsewhere herein. We undertake no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason. Numbers expressed herein may be rounded to thousands of dollars.
 
Overview
 
Merriman Holdings, Inc. (the Company) is a financial services platform company that provides capital markets advisory and research, corporate services, and investment banking through its wholly-owned operating subsidiary, Merriman Capital, Inc. (hereafter MC). MC is an investment bank and securities broker-dealer whose clients are fast growing public and private companies and the entrepreneurs that manage those companies. MC is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a broker-dealer and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC).
 
Our mission is to be the leader in advising, financing, trading and investing in fast-growing companies under $1 billion in market capitalization. We originate differentiated equity research, brokerage and trading services primarily to institutional investors, as well as investment banking and advisory services to our fast-growing corporate clients.
 
We are headquartered in San Francisco, CA with an additional office in New York, NY. As of September 30, 2013, we had 30 employees. 
 
 
24

 
Executive Summary
 
Our total revenues were approximately $1,929,000 and $6,391,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, representing a 21% and 39% decrease over the same period in 2012. The decrease was primarily due to the Company’s reorganizing and repositioning of its business segments, including the discontinuance of certain non-profitable businesses and reduction in force.
 
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, commission revenues decreased 38% and 29% year-over-year, respectively, due to fewer sales producers in 2013. Principal transactions decreased 67% and 78%, respectively, from the same periods in 2012 primarily due to market volatility. Investment banking revenues for the same periods increased 4% and decreased 67% year over year, respectively, due to fewer banking transactions being closed as a result of market condition and the Company having fewer bankers. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, due to the Company’s repositioning its business model to focus on capital markets advisory and platform revenue model, we saw a 15% increase in advisory and other revenues, respectively.
 
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, net loss was approximately $1,215,000 and $3,477,000 or $0.01 and $0.04 per share, respectively. Net loss for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 included stock based compensation expenses of approximately ($22,000) and $548,000, respectively.
 
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, net loss was approximately $1,095,000 and $5,521,000 or $0.25 and $1.01 per share, respectively. Net loss for the three months ended September 30, 2012 included stock based compensation expense of approximately $172,000. Net loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 included stock based compensation expense and loss on equity exchange of approximately $2,048,000 and $1,086,000, respectively.
 
Liquidity/Going Concern
 
The Company incurred substantial losses during the first nine months of 2013, having net losses of $3,477,000 and negative operating cash flows of approximately $3,536,000. As of September 30, 2013, the Company had an accumulated deficit of $148,394,000. These facts raise substantial doubt as to the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.
 
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming the Company will continue on a going concern basis which contemplates the realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business and do not include any adjustments that might result from uncertainty about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.
 
Management’s plan to alleviate the going-concern uncertainty includes, but is not limited to, the issuance of equity and debt instruments for working capital. The Company’s continued existence is also dependent upon its ability to increase revenues generated from operations which will enable the Company to achieve a profitable level of operations.
 
If anticipated operating results are not achieved, management has the intent, and believes it has the ability, to further delay or reduce expenditures. In such case, the further reduction in operating expenses might need to be substantial. Failure to generate sufficient cash flows from operations, raise additional capital, or reduce certain discretionary spending would have a material adverse effect on the Company’s ability to achieve its intended business objectives. The Company can give no assurance that it will be successful in its plans and can give no assurance that additional financing will be available on terms advantageous to the existing terms or that additional financing will be available at all. Should the Company not be successful in obtaining the necessary financing to fund its operations, the Company would need to curtail certain or all of its operational activities and/or contemplate the sale of its assets if necessary.
 
On March 28, 2013 and April 26, 2013, the Company issued 60,745,824 shares of common stock at $0.03 per share and 15,186,454 warrants for total proceeds of $1,822,375. In addition, the Company issued 40,333,331 shares of common stock at $0.03 per share and 19,249,998 warrants in connection with the conversion of $1,210,000 debt. On September 16, 2013, the Company issued 2,333,332 shares of common stock at $0.06 per share and 583,332 warrants for total proceeds of $140,000.
 
 
25

    
Results of Operations
 
The following table sets forth the results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commissions
 
$
1,057,800
 
$
1,716,268
 
$
3,276,160
 
$
4,615,763
 
Principal transactions
 
 
(96,157)
 
 
(294,326)
 
 
(60,779)
 
 
(277,428)
 
Investment banking
 
 
484,650
 
 
468,010
 
 
1,546,344
 
 
4,690,879
 
Advisory and other
 
 
483,041
 
 
569,555
 
 
1,629,559
 
 
1,415,138
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total revenues
 
 
1,929,334
 
 
2,459,507
 
 
6,391,284
 
 
10,444,352
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Compensation and benefits
 
 
1,531,207
 
 
2,279,700
 
 
5,530,637
 
 
9,660,592
 
Brokerage and clearing fees
 
 
95,218
 
 
158,199
 
 
297,994
 
 
438,782
 
Professional services
 
 
113,329
 
 
80,726
 
 
260,583
 
 
535,112
 
Occupancy and equipment
 
 
358,058
 
 
420,746
 
 
1,051,354
 
 
1,307,823
 
Communication and technology
 
 
194,667
 
 
240,808
 
 
537,942
 
 
815,202
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
 
39,899
 
 
5,590
 
 
46,900
 
 
16,530
 
Travel and entertainment
 
 
60,605
 
 
104,304
 
 
166,241
 
 
306,556
 
Legal services
 
 
303,601
 
 
159,544
 
 
369,645
 
 
495,329
 
Cost of underwriting capital
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
49,600
 
 
152,600
 
Other
 
 
328,115
 
 
9,971
 
 
895,618
 
 
901,475
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total operating expenses
 
 
3,024,699
 
 
3,459,588
 
 
9,206,514
 
 
14,630,001
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating loss
 
 
(1,095,365)
 
 
(1,000,081)
 
 
(2,815,230)
 
 
(4,185,649)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other income
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
15,000
 
Interest income
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
1,566
 
 
1,763
 
Interest expense
 
 
(81,849)
 
 
(64,513)
 
 
(248,894)
 
 
(179,116)
 
Amortization of debt discount
 
 
(35,370)
 
 
(30,290)
 
 
(109,561)
 
 
(87,027)
 
Loss on early extinguishment of debt
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
(293,347)
 
 
-
 
Loss on equity exchange
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
(1,086,329)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss before income tax
 
 
(1,212,584)
 
 
(1,094,884)
 
 
(3,465,466)
 
 
(5,521,358)
 
Income tax expense
 
 
(2,737)
 
 
-
 
 
(11,999)
 
 
-
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss
 
$
(1,215,321)
 
$
(1,094,884)
 
$
(3,477,465)
 
$
(5,521,358)
 
 
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, total revenues decreased by approximately $530,000 and $4,053,000, or 21% and 39% as compared to the same periods in 2012, respectively. 
 
For the three months ended September 30, 2013, the $530,000 decrease consisted of approximately $658,000 and $87,000 decreases in commissions and advisory and other revenues, respectively, partially offset by $198,000 and $17,000 increases in principal transactions and investment banking revenues, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the $4,053,000 decrease consisted of approximately $1,340,000 and $3,144,000 decreases in commissions and investment banking revenues, respectively, partially offset by $217,000 and $214,000 increases in principal transactions and other revenues, respectively.
 
 
26

    
Investment Banking Revenue
 
The following table sets forth our revenue and transaction volumes from our investment banking activities for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:
 
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
Revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital raising
 
$
355,150
 
$
336,843
 
$
1,315,116
 
$
3,440,112
 
Financial advisory
 
 
129,500
 
 
131,167
 
 
231,228
 
 
1,250,767
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total investment banking revenue
 
$
484,650
 
$
468,010
 
$
1,546,344
 
$
4,690,879
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Transaction Volumes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Public offerings:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital underwritten participations
 
$
-
 
$
8,550,000
 
$
93,500,000
 
$
54,350,005
 
Number of transactions
 
 
-
 
 
1
 
 
4
 
 
5
 
Private placements:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital raised
 
$
2,384,120
 
$
89,000,000
 
$
55,000,000
 
$
272,210,500
 
Number of transactions
 
 
2
 
 
1
 
 
6
 
 
7
 
Financial advisory:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Transaction amounts
 
$
-
 
$
-
 
$
-
 
$
125,000,000
 
Number of transactions
 
 
3
 
 
1
 
 
3
 
 
7
 
 
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, investment banking revenues were approximately $485,000 and  $1,546,000 or 25% and 24% of total revenues, representing a 4% increase and 67% decrease from the same periods in 2012, respectively. The slight 4% increase was due to the timing of the deal closing whereas the 67% decrease was due to the Company completing fewer deals in 2013 as a direct result of market conditions and the Company having fewer bankers in 2013.
 
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, investment banking revenues generated by FEP associates were $234,000 and $805,000, respectively.
 
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, there was no investment banking client who accounted for more than 10% of our total revenues.
 
 
27

   
Commission and Principal Transaction Revenue
 
 Our broker-dealer activity includes the following:
 
 
·
Commissions – Commissions include revenue resulting from executing trades in exchange-listed securities, over-the-counter securities and other transactions as agent.
 
 
·
Principal Transactions   Principal transactions consist of a portion of dealer spreads attributed to our securities trading activities as principal in NASDAQ-listed and other securities, and include transactions derived from our activities as a market-maker. Additionally, principal transactions include gains and losses resulting from market price fluctuations that occur while holding positions in our securities trading inventory.
 
The following table sets forth our revenue and several operating metrics, which we utilize in measuring and evaluating performance of our trading activity:
 
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commissions:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Institutional equities
 
$
1,057,800
 
$
1,716,268
 
$
3,276,160
 
$
4,615,763
 
Total commission revenue
 
$
1,057,800
 
$
1,716,268
 
$
3,276,160
 
$
4,615,763
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal transactions:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Customer principal transactions, proprietary
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
trading and market making
 
$
(72,904)
 
$
10,179
 
$
21,607
 
$
(129,993)
 
Investment portfolio
 
 
(23,253)
 
 
(304,505)
 
 
(82,386)
 
 
(147,435)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total principal transaction revenue
 
$
(96,157)
 
$
(294,326)
 
$
(60,779)
 
$
(277,428)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Transaction Volumes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Number of shares traded
 
 
57,653,829
 
 
93,801,235
 
 
149,573,579
 
 
294,786,836
 
 
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, commission revenues were approximately $1,058,000 and $3,276,000 or 55% and 51% of total revenue, respectively, representing a $658,000 and $1,340,000 or 38% and 29% decrease from the same periods in 2012, respectively. The decreases were due the Company having fewer sales producers in 2013 and hence lower trading volume.
 
Principal transaction revenue consists of four different activities – customer principal trades, market making, and realized and unrealized gains and losses in our investment portfolio. As a broker-dealer, we account for all of our marketable security positions on a trading basis and as a result, all security positions are marked to fair market values. Returns from market making activities tend to be more volatile than acting as agent or principal for customers.
 
For the three months ended September 30, 2013, principal transaction losses were approximately $96,000 which consisted of  a $23,000 loss on our investment portfolio and a $73,000 loss from customer principal transactions and proprietary trading and market making. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, principal transaction losses were approximately $61,000 which consisted of  a $83,000 loss on our investment portfolio, partially offset by a $22,00 gain from customer principal transactions and proprietary trading and market making.
 
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, there was one brokerage customer that accounted for more than 10% of our total revenue. 
 
 
28

 
Compensation and Benefit Expenses
 
Compensation and benefit expenses represent the largest component of our operating expenses and includes incentive compensation paid to sales, trading, research and investment banking professionals, as well as discretionary bonuses, salaries and wages, and stock-based compensation. Incentive compensation varies primarily based on revenue production. Discretionary bonuses paid to investment bankers and research analysts vary with revenue production, but also include other qualitative factors and are determined by management. Salaries, payroll taxes and employee benefits vary based primarily on overall headcount.
 
The following table sets forth the major components of our compensation and benefits for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:
 
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
 
 
 
2013
 
 
2012
 
 
2013
 
 
2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Incentive compensation and
    discretionary bonuses
 
$
954,005
 
 
$
1,193,571
 
 
$
2,879,860
 
 
$
4,765,579
 
 
Salaries and wages
 
 
459,688
 
 
 
710,649
 
 
 
1,585,941
 
 
 
2,152,912
 
 
Stock-based compensation
 
 
(21,682)
 
 
 
171,604
 
 
 
548,198
 
 
 
2,048,313
 
 
Payroll taxes, benefits and other
 
 
139,196
 
 
 
203,876
 
 
 
516,638
 
 
 
693,788
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total compensation and benefits
 
$
1,531,207
 
 
$
2,279,700
 
 
$
5,530,637
 
 
$
9,660,592
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash compensation and benefits as a
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
percentage of core business revenue
 
 
77
%
 
 
77
%
 
 
77
%
 
 
71
%
 
 
For the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012,  total compensation and benefits were approximately $1,531,000 and $2,280,000, respectively, a decrease of approximately $748,000 or 33%. Incentive compensation and discretionary bonuses decreased $239,000 or 20% as a direct result of lower commissions and banking revenues. Salaries and wages decreased $251,000 or 35% due to lower headcounts and more employees are commissioned based. Stock-based compensation decreased $193,000 or 113% due to a large number of options were granted in June 2013 with immediate vesting. Payroll taxes and benefits’ decrease of $65,000 or 32% directly correlated to lower compensation expenses.
 
For the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, total compensation and benefits were approximately $5,531,000 and $9,661,000, respectively, a decrease of approximately $4,130,000 or 43%. Incentive compensation and discretionary bonuses decreased $1,886,000 or 40% as a direct result of lower commissions and banking revenues. Salaries and wages decreased $567,000 or 26% due to lower headcounts and more employees are commissioned based. Stock-based compensation decreased $1,500,000 or 73% due to the $1,075,000 option forfeiture charge expense in 2012. Payroll taxes and benefits’ decrease of $177,000 or 26% directly related to lower compensation expenses. 
 
                As of September 30, 2013 and 2012, the Company had 30 and 35 employees, respectively.
 
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, of the total compensation and benefits, $312,000 and $558,000 were for FEP associates, respectively.  For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, the amounts were $210,000 and $1,013,000 respectively.
 
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, one and two sales professionals accounted for more than 10% of total revenue (approximately $684,000 and $2,426,000, respectively) and one customer accounted for more than 10% of total revenue (approximately $217,000 and $731,000, respectively). During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, three and one sales professionals accounted for more than 10% of total revenue (approximately $1,545,000 and $1,670,000, respectively) and no customer accounted for more than 10% of total revenue.
 
 
29

    
Other Operating Expenses
 
Brokerage and clearing fees include trade processing expenses paid to our clearing broker, and execution fees paid to floor brokers and electronic communication networks. MC is a fully-disclosed broker-dealer which contracts a third party clearing broker to perform all of the clearance functions. The clearing broker-dealer processes and settles all of MC’s customer transactions and maintains the detailed customer records. These expenses are almost entirely variable, and are based on commission revenue and trade volume. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, brokerage and clearing fees decreased $63,000 and $141,000 or 40% and 32%, respectively, as compared to the same periods in 2012 due to reduction in trading volume.
 
Professional services expense includes audit, accounting fees and various consulting fees. For the three months ended September 30, 2013, professional services expense increased $33,000 or 40% as compared to the same period in 2012 due to the Company using outside consultants to upgrade its computer and phone systems. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, professional services expense decreased $275,000 or 51% as compared to the same period in 2012 primarily due to a number of consulting agreements expiring in 2012 which more than offset the increase in the three months ended September 30, 2013.
 
Occupancy and equipment include rents and related costs of our office premises, equipment, software and leasehold improvements. Occupancy expense is largely fixed in nature while equipment expense can vary somewhat in relation to our business operations. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, occupancy and equipment expenses decreased $63,000 and $256,000 or 15% and 20%, respectively, as compared to the same periods in 2012 due to more subtenants being procured.
 
Communications and technology expense includes market data and quote services, voice, data and internet service fees, and data processing costs. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, communications and technology expense decreased $46,000 and $277,000 or 19%, respectively, as compared to the same periods in 2012 due to headcount reduction and cancellation of certain services as part of the Company’s cost reduction measures.
 
  Depreciation and amortization expenses relate to the depreciation of our fixed assets and amortization of leasehold improvements and are mostly fixed in nature. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, depreciation expenses increased $34,000 and $30,000, respectively, as compared to the same periods in 2012 due to certain capital leases were entered into during the third quarter of 2013. Depreciation expenses in 2012 were de-minimis since the majority of the fixed assets were fully depreciated and the additions were minimal, thus significantly reducing the depreciable asset base.
 
Travel and business development expenses include business development costs by our sales professionals, investment bankers and non-deal road show expenses. Non-deal road shows are meetings in which management teams of our corporate clients present directly to our institutional investors. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, travel and entertainment expenses decreased approximately $44,000 and $140,000 or 42% and 46 %, respectively, as compared to the same periods in 2012 due to lower headcount, fewer deals closed and continued cost reduction measures. 
 
Legal services and litigation settlements relate to our ongoing litigations. For the three months ended September 30, 2013, legal services and litigation settlements increased $144,000 and decreased $126,000 or 90% and 25%, respectively, as compared to the same periods in 2012 due to a settlement reached in August 2013, more than offset by reduction in legal fees since the number of litigations had significantly decreased.
 
Cost of underwriting capital represents borrowing cost of capital to supplement MC’s net capital to enable it to underwrite banking deals. For the three months ended September 30, 2013, no costs of underwriting capital were incurred due to the fact that the banking deals closed did not require underwriting capital. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, costs of underwriting capital decreased $103,000 or 68% as compared to the same period in 2012 due to fewer banking deals closed and of the deals closed, fewer required underwriting capital
 
The following expenses are included in other operating expenses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:
 
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Insurance
 
$
130,170
 
$
126,980
 
$
387,070
 
$
378,306
 
Regulatory & filing fees
 
 
35,527
 
 
48,945
 
 
124,348
 
 
156,978
 
Provision for uncollectible accounts receivable
 
 
106,525
 
 
(35,000)
 
 
228,558
 
 
245,275
 
Investor conference
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
210,317
 
Recruiting
 
 
9,000
 
 
-
 
 
9,000
 
 
(111,500)
 
Other
 
 
46,893
 
 
(130,954)
 
 
146,642
 
 
22,099
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total other operating expenses
 
$
328,115
 
$
9,971
 
$
895,618
 
$
901,475
 
 
 
30

 
Other operating expenses include insurance, regulatory & filing fees, provision for uncollectible accounts receivable, investor conference and other miscellaneous expenses.
 
For the three months ended September 30, 2013, other operating expenses increased $318,000 as compared to the same period in 2012 due to a $140,000 increase in write-off of receivables deemed uncollectible and a $178,000 increase in miscellaneous other expenses. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, other operating expenses decreased $6,000 as compared to the same period in 2012 due to (i) a $120,000 increase in recruiting due to a reversal of the fees in 2012, (ii) a $125,000 increase in miscellaneous other expenses, mostly offset by (iii) a $210,000 decrease in investor conference due to the fact that no conference was held in 2013, and (iv) a $41,000 decrease in insurance, regulatory & filing fees and provision for uncollectible accounts receivable.
 
Amortization of Debt Discounts
 
 We issued various debts with stocks or warrants, for which total proceeds were allocated to individual instruments based on the relative fair values of each instrument at the time of issuance. The value of the stocks or warrants was recorded as discount on the debt and amortized over the term of the respective debt using the effective interest method.
 
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, amortizations of debt discounts for the remaining debt and related warrants were $35,000 and $110,000, respectively.
 
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
We were not a party to any off-balance sheet arrangements during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013. In particular, we do not have any interest in so-called limited purpose entities, which include special purpose entities and structured finance entities. 
 
Commitments
 
Other Commitments
 
The following table summarizes our significant commitments as of September 30, 2013, consisting of future minimum lease payments under all non-cancelable operating leases and other non-cancelable commitments with initial or remaining terms in excess of one year.
 
 
 
Notes
 
Office
 
Operating
 
 
 
 
 
 
Payable
 
Leases
 
Leases
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2013
 
$
444,837
 
$
406,028
 
$
127,400
 
$
978,265
 
2014
 
 
2,428,564
 
 
960,000
 
 
302,400
 
 
3,690,964
 
2015
 
 
579,333
 
 
960,000
 
 
42,400
 
 
1,581,733
 
2016
 
 
-
 
 
960,000
 
 
-
 
 
960,000
 
2017
 
 
-
 
 
1,018,667
 
 
-
 
 
1,018,667
 
Thereafter
 
 
-
 
 
2,645,333
 
 
-
 
 
2,645,333
 
Total Commitments
 
 
3,452,734
 
 
6,950,028
 
 
472,200
 
 
10,874,962
 
Interest
 
 
(225,106)
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
(225,106)
 
Net Commitments
 
$
3,227,628
 
$
6,950,028
 
$
472,200
 
$
10,649,856
 
   
 
31

 
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
 
The condensed consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, which require us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to the valuation of securities owned and deferred tax assets. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from those estimates. We believe the following critical accounting policies affect our more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
Securities Owned
 
Corporate Equities – are comprised primarily of exchange-traded equity securities that the Company takes selective proprietary positions based on expectations of future market movements and conditions. They are generally valued based on quoted prices from the exchange. To the extent these securities are actively traded, valuation adjustments are not applied and they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Certain securities are traded infrequently and therefore do not have observable prices based on actively traded markets. These securities are classified as Level 3 securities, if pricing inputs or adjustments are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable. The Company determines the fair value of infrequently trading securities using the observed closing price at measurement date, discounted for the put option value calculated through the Black-Scholes model or similar valuation techniques.
 
Stock Warrants – represent warrants to purchase equity in a publicly traded company. Such positions are considered illiquid and do not have readily determinable fair values, and therefore require significant management judgment or estimation. For these securities, the Company uses the Black-Scholes valuation methodology or similar techniques. They are classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
Underwriters’ Purchase Options – represent the overallotment of units for a publicly traded company for which the Company acted as an underwriter. Such positions are considered illiquid and do not have readily determinable fair values, and therefore require significant management judgment or estimation. For these securities, the Company uses the Black-Scholes valuation methodology. They are classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
Valuation of Securities Owned
 
Securities owned and securities sold, not yet purchased are reflected in the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition on a trade-date basis. Related unrealized gains or losses are generally recognized in principal transactions in the condensed consolidated statements of operations. The use of fair value to measure financial instruments is fundamental to our condensed consolidated financial statements and is one of our most critical accounting policies.
 
The fair value of a financial instrument is the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (the exit price). Instruments that we own (long positions) are marked to bid prices, and instruments that we have sold, but not yet purchased (short positions), are marked to offer prices. Fair value measurements are not adjusted for transaction costs. Fair values of our financial instruments are generally obtained from quoted market prices in active markets, broker or dealer price quotations, or alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency. To the extent certain financial instruments trade infrequently or are non-marketable securities and, therefore, have little or no price transparency, we value these instruments based on management’s estimates.
 
Substantially all of our financial instruments are recorded at fair value or contract amounts that approximate fair value. Securities owned and securities sold, not yet purchased, are stated at fair value, with any related changes in unrealized appreciation or depreciation reflected in principal transactions in the consolidated statements of operations. Financial instruments carried at contract amounts include cash and cash equivalents and amounts due from and to brokers, dealers and clearing brokers.
 
 
32

 
Stock-based Compensation Expense
 
The Company measures and recognizes compensation expense based on estimated fair values for all stock-based awards made to employees and directors, including stock options, restricted stock and warrants. The Company estimates fair value of stock-based awards on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The value of the portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as expense in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations over the requisite service periods. Because stock-based compensation expense is based on awards that are ultimately expected to vest, stock-based compensation expense has been reduced to account 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.
 
To calculate stock-based compensation resulting from the issuance of options, and warrants, the Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model, which is affected by its stock price as well as assumptions regarding a number of subjective variables. These variables include, but are not limited to the Company’s expected stock price volatility over the term of the awards, and actual and projected employee stock option exercise behaviors. No tax benefits were attributed to the stock-based compensation expense because a valuation allowance was maintained for all net deferred tax assets.
 
Option Forfeiture/Cancellation
 
Due to recent market performance, many of the Company’s outstanding options carry exercise prices that are significantly higher than the current market price of the Company’s common stock. As a result, in March 2012, the Company offered those option holders who are current officers and employees the ability to return their options to the Company.
 
The option holders were under no obligation to participate. Option holders who chose to return their options will be considered for new option grants which will take into consideration their current positions with the Company, their potential contribution to building the Company’s business, and the Company’s stock price at the time of grant. There is no guarantee that (a) option holders who returned options will receive new grants, (b) any new option grants will be for the same number of shares as those relinquished, and (c) the new terms will be the same as those of the relinquished options.
 
  The Company accounted for this transaction in accordance with the guidance of ASC 718-20 Compensation – Stock Compensation which states that a cancellation of an award that is not accompanied by the concurrent grant of (or offer to grant) a replacement award or other valuable consideration shall be accounted for as a repurchase for no consideration.
 
Deferred Tax Valuation Allowance
 
The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with the provision of ASC 740, Income Taxes, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities at tax rates expected to be in effect when these balances reverse. Future tax benefits attributable to temporary differences are recognized to the extent that the realization of such benefits is more likely than not. The Company has concluded that it is not more likely than not that it will be able to realize the benefit of its deferred tax assets as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 based on the scheduling of deferred tax liabilities and projected taxable income. The amount of the deferred tax assets actually realized, however, could vary if there are differences in the timing or amount of future reversals of existing deferred tax liabilities or changes in the actual amounts of future taxable income. Should the Company determine that it will be able to realize all or part of the deferred tax asset in the future, an adjustment to the deferred tax asset will be recorded in the period such determination is made.
 
 
33

 
ITEM 3.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
Information concerning market risk is incorporated herein by reference to Item 7A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K and Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2012. There has been no material change in the quantitative and qualitative disclosure about market risk since December 31, 2012.
 
 
34

 
ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures 
 
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures – We have established disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the Company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to the officers who certify the Company’s financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors.
 
Based on their evaluation as of September 30, 2013, the principal executive and financial officers of the Company concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) are effective.
 
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting – Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Rules 13a-15(f), to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with the United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (U.S. GAAP). The internal control includes policies and procedures to provide reasonable assurance that transactions are properly accounted for in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
 
Due to its inherent limitations, there is a risk that material misstatements may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis by internal control over financial reporting. Projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that policies and procedures may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance may deteriorate. All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. These inherent limitations are taken into consideration in the design of the financial reporting internal control to reduce, though not eliminate, this risk.
 
Management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2013 and based on that evaluation, they concluded that such internal controls and procedures were effective.
 
Changes in Internal Controls
 
Except as otherwise discussed above, there have been no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(d) and 15d-15(d) of the Exchange Act) that occurred during the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2013, that materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
35

 
PART II.   OTHER INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1.     
 
Legal Proceedings
 
Del Biaggio/Cacchione Matters
 
A number of lawsuits were filed against the Company and MC (collectively, “Merriman Parties”), in connection with the actions of William Del Biaggio III (Del Biaggio), a former customer of MC, and David Scott Cacchione (Cacchione), a former retail broker of MC in 2088 and years prior. Del Biaggio and Cacchione pleaded guilty to securities fraud and were subsequently imprisoned. All of these lawsuits have been settled or dismissed. During the quarter ended September 30, 2013 and subsequently, developments in lawsuits against the Merriman Parties in connection with Cacchione’s activities are as follows:
 
Trustee for the Bankruptcy estates of William James “Boots” Del Biaggio and BDB Management, LLC v. Merriman Capital, Inc. and D. Jonathan Merriman
 
On September 2, 2011, a complaint was filed in FINRA arbitration against MC and D. Jonathan Merriman by the bankruptcy estates of William James “Boots” Del Biaggio III and BDB Management, LLC. The complaint alleged various causes of action arising from alleged unauthorized trading and cross collateralization in plaintiff’s accounts at MC and sought damages of $7.2 million. On November 2, 2011, MC filed an answer to the complaint on its behalf and D. Jonathan Merriman’s, denying the allegations and asserting, among other things, the right to set off damages caused to the Merriman Parties by Del Biaggio, who is currently serving an eight year sentence in federal prison for fraud, in an amount well in excess of plaintiff’s alleged damages. In August 2013, the parties entered into a settlement agreement and release, and the case was dismissed. The settlement amount was fully accrued for and included in the consolidated statement of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2013.
 
Khachaturian, Peterson and Salvi v. Merriman Capital, Inc. and Merriman Holdings, Inc.
 
Complaints were filed in the San Francisco County Superior Court, California by Henry Khachaturian in January 2011, by Chuck Peterson in February 2010 and by Dolores Salvi in October 2010. The complaints also named as defendants the Company’s officers and former officers D. Jonathan Merriman, Gregory Curhan, and Robert Ford. Messrs. Curhan and Ford were dropped from the case in January 2011. The complaints were consolidated into one case in March 2011. The complaints alleged that plaintiffs were convinced by the Company to purchase shares of a small, risky stock in which MC held a position. It further alleged that the Company did not permit plaintiffs to sell the shares when the stock’s price fell. In October 2013, the parties entered into a settlement agreement and release, and the case was dismissed.
 
 
36

 
ITEM 1A. Risk Factors 
 
In addition to the factors set forth below and the other information set forth in this report, including reports we incorporate by reference, you should carefully consider the risk factors previously disclosed in response to Item 1A to Part 1 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, filed on April 1, 2013, as amended by our Form 10-K/A filed on April 30, 2013.
 
We may not be able to continue operating our business
 
The Company incurred significant losses in the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and the year ended December 31, 2012. Even if we are successful in executing our plans, we may not be able to continue sustaining such losses. The Company’s ability to meet its financial obligations is highly dependent on market and economic conditions. We also recorded net losses in certain quarters within other past fiscal years.
 
Prior claims on assets in liquidation
 
                There can be no assurance that there will be any proceeds available in liquidation for our common shareholders after payments to holders of our Secured and Unsecured Promissory Notes. Common shareholders may receive nothing in liquidation or receive much less than they would if there were no Secured and Unsecured Promissory Notes outstanding.
                 
Limitations on our access to capital and our ability to comply with net capital requirements could impair our ability to conduct our business
 
Liquidity, or ready access to funds, is essential to financial services firms. Failures of financial institutions have often been attributable in large part to insufficient liquidity. Liquidity is of importance to our trading business, and perceived liquidity issues may affect our customers and counterparties’ willingness to engage in brokerage transactions with us. Our liquidity could be impaired due to circumstances that we may be unable to control, such as a general market disruption or operational problems that affect our trading capability.
 
MC, our broker-dealer subsidiary, is subject to the net capital requirements of the SEC and various self-regulatory organizations of which it is a member. These requirements typically specify the minimum level of net capital a broker-dealer must maintain, and also mandate that a significant part of its assets be kept in relatively liquid form. Any failure to comply with these net capital requirements could impair our ability to conduct our core business. Furthermore, MC is subject to laws that authorize regulatory bodies to prevent or reduce the flow of funds from it to the Company 
 
 Factors which could impede our ability to access additional capital include the recent extreme volatility in the equity markets and our recent operating results. If we are not able to access additional capital, we might not be able to meet our obligations in a timely manner, which would have a material adverse effect on the Company’s ability to achieve its intended business objectives.
 
We have incurred losses for the period covered by this report in the recent past and may incur losses in the future.
 
The Company recorded net losses of approximately $1,215,000 and $3,477,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively, and $6,869,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012. We also recorded net losses in certain quarters within other past fiscal years. We may incur losses in future periods.
 
Reduced scale of operations and revenues, and changes to business plan
 
The Company significantly reduced the scale of its operations and is executing a new business model. The Company had 35 and 30 employees at January 1, 2012 and September 30, 2013, respectively. The historical business of the firm is outlined in our prior filings with the SEC. There is a risk that the firm will not be able to achieve profitability with this reduced level of productive personnel.
 
The Company is executing a business plan focusing on its strengths in sponsoring corporate issuers to be listed on the OTCQX market, and on executing securities transactions for institutional investors. There is a risk that the Company may not be able to execute the business plan successfully due to various constraints, including those related to the current capital markets and the lack of adequate financial resources to transition the Company into the new business model.
 
  Possible need for additional capital
               
As of September 30, 2013, the Company had approximately $3.7 million in current assets, $2.4 million in current liabilities and $0.1 million of equity. Additionally, its broker-dealer subsidiary, MC, is required to maintain a minimum level of net capital in order to conduct its business. MC’s excess net capital as of September 30, 2013 was approximately $478,000. Given the Company’s history of losses, the market volatility and uncertain business environment, there can be no assurance that the Company will have sufficient capital to achieve its intended business objectives.
 
 
37

 
ITEM 6. Exhibits
 
31.1
Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant To Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant To Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
32.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
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.
 
 
MERRIMAN HOLDINGS, INC.
 
 
 
 
 
November 14, 2013
By:
/s/ D. JONATHAN MERRIMAN
 
 
 
D. Jonathan Merriman,
 
 
 
Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 
 
(Principal Executive Officer)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
November 14, 2013
By:
/s/ WILLIAM J. FEBBO
 
 
 
William J. Febbo
 
 
 
 
Principal Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
(Principal Financial Officer) 
 
 
 
39