UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM
For the quarterly period ended
For the transition period from __________ to __________
Commission File Number:
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
| (State or other jurisdiction of | (I.R.S. Employer | |
| incorporation or organization) | Identification Number) |
| 10019 | ||
| (Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip Code) |
Registrant’s telephone number,
including area code:
Not applicable
(Former name or former address, if changed since last report)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
| Title of each class | Trading Symbol(s) | Name of each exchange on which registered | ||
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.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant
has submitted electronically every Interactive Date File required to be submitted 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 such files).
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
| Large accelerated filer | ☐ | Accelerated filer | ☐ |
| ☒ | Smaller reporting company | ||
| Emerging growth company |
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant
is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐
No
As of November 20, 2023, there were
TABLE OF CONTENTS
| Page | ||
| PART I. | FINANCIAL INFORMATION | 1 |
| ITEM 1. | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) | 1 |
| ITEM 2. | MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF O PERATIONS | 34 |
| ITEM 3. | QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK | 45 |
| ITEM 4. | CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES | 46 |
| PART II. | OTHER INFORMATION | 47 |
| ITEM 1. | LEGAL PROCEEDINGS | 47 |
| ITEM 1A. | RISK FACTORS | 47 |
| ITEM 2. | UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS | 47 |
| ITEM 3. | DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES | 47 |
| ITEM 4. | MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES | 47 |
| ITEM 5. | OTHER INFORMATION | 47 |
| ITEM 6. | EXHIBITS | 48 |
i
CAUTIONARY
NOTE REGARDING
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains statements that may be deemed to be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements relate to anticipated future events, future results of operations and or future financial performance. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by their use of terminology such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “future,” “intend,” “may,” “ought to,” “plan,” “possible,” “potentially,” “predicts,” “project,” “should,” “will,” “would,” negatives of such terms or other similar terms. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q include, without limitation, statements relating to:
| ● | our goals and strategies; |
| ● | our future business development, results of operations and financial condition; |
| ● | our estimates regarding expenses, future revenues, capital requirements and our need for additional financing; |
| ● | our estimates regarding the market opportunity for our services; |
| ● | the impact of government laws and regulations; |
| ● | our ability to recruit and retain qualified personnel; |
| ● | our failure to comply with regulatory guidelines; |
| ● | uncertainty in industry demand; |
| ● | general economic conditions and market conditions in the financial services industry; |
| ● | future sales of large blocks or our securities, which may adversely impact our share price; and |
| ● | depth of the trading market in our securities. |
The preceding list is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all of our forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and are based on assumptions and subject to risks and uncertainties, including those described in Item 1A “Risk Factors” of our Annual Report of Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 and elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
You should not unduly rely on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward- looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason after the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in our expectations.
ii
PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
GD CULTURE GROUP LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(UNAUDITED)
| September 30, | December 31, | |||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| ASSETS | ||||||||
| CURRENT ASSETS | ||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | $ | ||||||
| Accounts receivable, net | ||||||||
| Other receivables, net | ||||||||
| Prepaid expense - related party | ||||||||
| Prepayments | ||||||||
| Total current assets | ||||||||
| NON-CURRENT ASSETS | ||||||||
| Plant and equipment, net | ||||||||
| Operating lease right-of-use assets, net | ||||||||
| Goodwill | ||||||||
| Intangible assets, net | ||||||||
| Long-term investments, net | ||||||||
| Total non-current assets | ||||||||
| Total assets | $ | $ | ||||||
| LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY | ||||||||
| CURRENT LIABILITIES | ||||||||
| Accounts payable | $ | $ | ||||||
| Other payables and accrued liabilities | ||||||||
| Other payables - related parties | ||||||||
| Current portion of operating lease liabilities | ||||||||
| Taxes payable | ||||||||
| Total current liabilities | ||||||||
| NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES | ||||||||
| Non-current portion of operating lease liabilities | ||||||||
| Total non-current liabilities | ||||||||
| Total liabilities | ||||||||
| COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTE 14) | ||||||||
| SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY | ||||||||
| Preferred stock, $ | ||||||||
| Common stock, $ | ||||||||
| Stock subscription receivable | ( | ) | ||||||
| Additional paid-in capital | ||||||||
| Statutory reserves | ||||||||
| Accumulated deficit | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Accumulated other comprehensive income | ||||||||
| Total GD Culture Group Limited shareholders’ equity | ||||||||
| Noncontrolling interest | ||||||||
| Total shareholders’ equity | ||||||||
| Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity | $ | $ | ||||||
| * | Giving retroactive effect to the 1-for-30 reverse stock split effective on November 9, 2022. |
1
GD CULTURE GROUP LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF LOSS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
(UNAUDITED)
| For the Three Months Ended September 30, | For the Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | 2023 | 2022 | |||||||||||||
| REVENUES | ||||||||||||||||
| Enterprise brand management services | ||||||||||||||||
| Software copyright | ||||||||||||||||
| TOTAL REVENUES | ||||||||||||||||
| COST OF REVENUES | ||||||||||||||||
| Enterprise brand management services | ||||||||||||||||
| TOTAL COST OF REVENUES | ||||||||||||||||
| GROSS PROFIT | ||||||||||||||||
| OPERATING EXPENSES | ||||||||||||||||
| Selling, general and administrative | ||||||||||||||||
| Impairment of prepayments | ||||||||||||||||
| TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES | ||||||||||||||||
| LOSS FROM OPERATIONS | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE) | ||||||||||||||||
| Interest income | ||||||||||||||||
| Interest expense | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||
| Other income | ||||||||||||||||
| Total other income, net | ||||||||||||||||
| LOSS BEFORE INCOME TAXES FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES | ||||||||||||||||
| LOSS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||
| LOSS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS ATTRIBUTABLE TO GD CULTURE GROUP LIMITED | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| Discontinued operations: | ||||||||||||||||
| Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||
| Loss on disposal, net of taxes | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| Net loss | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS | ||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation adjustment | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||
| COMPREHENSIVE LOSS | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF COMMON SHARES | ||||||||||||||||
| Loss per share from continuing operations | ||||||||||||||||
| ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | |||||||||
| Loss per share from discontinued operations | ||||||||||||||||
| ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | |||||||||
| Loss per share available to common shareholders | ||||||||||||||||
| ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | |||||||||
2
GD CULTURE GROUP LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(UNAUDITED)
| For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2022 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Additional | Stock | Retained
Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) | Accumulated Other | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Preferred Stock | Common Stock | Paid-in | Subscription | Statutory | Comprehensive | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Capital | Receivable | Reserves | Unrestricted | Income (Loss) | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| BALANCE, January 1, 2022 | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of common stock for acquisition Yuanma | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of common stock for acquisition Highlight Media | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The cancellation of the common stock | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock subscription receivable from issuance of common stock | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| BALANCE, September 30, 2022 (Unaudited) | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
3
GD CULTURE GROUP LIMITED
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(CONTINUED) (UNAUDITED)
| For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2022 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Additional | Stock | Retained
Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) | Accumulated Other | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Preferred Stock | Common Stock | Paid-in | Subscription | Statutory | Comprehensive | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Capital | Receivable | Reserves | Unrestricted | Income (Loss) | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| BALANCE, July 1, 2022 | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of common stock for acquisition Yuanma | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of common stock for acquisition Highlight Media | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The cancellation of the common stock | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock subscription receivable from issuance of common stock | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| BALANCE, September 30, 2022 (Unaudited) | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
4
GD CULTURE GROUP LIMITED
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(CONTINUED) (UNAUDITED)
| For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Additional | Stock | Retained
Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) | Accumulated Other | Total
GD Culture Group Limited | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Preferred Stock | Common Stock | Paid-in | Subscription | Statutory | Comprehensive | Shareholders’ | Noncontrolling | Shareholders’ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Capital | Receivable | Reserves | Unrestricted | Loss | Equity | interest | Equity | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| BALANCE, January 1, 2023 | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of common stock for cash | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contribution by noncontrolling shareholder | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of common stock for acquisition right, title, and interest in and to the certain software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The cancellation of the common stock | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock subscription receivable from issuance of common stock | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| BALANCE, September 30, 2023 (Unaudited) | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
5
GD CULTURE GROUP LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(CONTINUED) (UNAUDITED)
| For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2023 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Additional | Stock | Retained
Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) | Accumulated Other | Total
GD Culture Group Limited | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Preferred Stock | Common Stock | Paid-in | Subscription | Statutory | Comprehensive | Shareholders’ | Noncontrolling | Shareholders’ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Capital | Receivable | Reserves | Unrestricted | Loss | Equity | interest | Equity | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| BALANCE, July 1, 2023 | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ( | ) | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of common stock for cash | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contribution by noncontrolling shareholder | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of common stock for acquisition right, title, and interest in and to the certain software | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The cancellation of the common stock | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock subscription receivable from issuance of common stock | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| BALANCE, September 30, 2023 (Unaudited) | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
6
GD CULTURE GROUP LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)
| For the Nine Months Ended September 30, |
||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
| Net loss | $ | ( |
) | $ | ( |
) | ||
| Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities: | ||||||||
| Depreciation of plant and equipment | ||||||||
| Amortization of intangible assets | ||||||||
| Lease expenses of right-of-use assets | ||||||||
| Impairment of prepayments | ||||||||
| Disposal of the company | ||||||||
| Goodwill impairments | ||||||||
| Change in operating assets and liabilities | ||||||||
| Accounts receivables | ( |
) | ||||||
| Other receivables | ( |
) | ||||||
| Prepaid expense - related party | ( |
) | ||||||
| Inventories | ( |
) | ||||||
| Prepayments | ( |
) | ( |
) | ||||
| Accounts payable | ( |
) | ||||||
| Other payables and accrued liabilities | ( |
) | ( |
) | ||||
| Customer deposits | ( |
) | ||||||
| Lease liabilities | ( |
) | - | |||||
| Taxes payable | ( |
) | ( |
) | ||||
| Other payables - related parties | ( |
) | ||||||
| Net cash used in operating activities | ( |
) | ( |
) | ||||
| CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITY: | ||||||||
| Net increase in cash from acquisition of Highlight Media | ||||||||
| Net decrease in cash from disposal of discontinued operations | ( |
) | ||||||
| Purchase of intangible assets | ( |
) | ||||||
| Purchase of equipment | ( |
) | ( |
) | ||||
| Purchase of convertible notes | ( |
) | ||||||
| Net cash used in investing activity | ( |
) | ( |
) | ||||
| CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITY: | ||||||||
| Proceeds from issuance of common stock | ||||||||
| Contribution by noncontrolling shareholder | ||||||||
| Net cash provided by financing activity | ||||||||
| EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE ON CASH | ( |
) | ( |
) | ||||
| NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN CASH | ( |
) | ||||||
| CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD | ||||||||
| CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD | $ | $ | ||||||
| SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION: | ||||||||
| Cash paid for interest | $ | $ | ||||||
| NON-CASH TRANSACTIONS OF INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES | ||||||||
| Issuance of common stock for acquisition Yuanma | ||||||||
| Issuance of common stock for acquisition Highlight Media | ||||||||
| Issuance of common stock for acquisition right, title, and interest in and to the certain software | ||||||||
| The cancellation of the common stock | ||||||||
| Initial recognition of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities | ||||||||
7
GD CULTURE GROUP LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1 – Nature of business and organization
GD Culture Group Limited (“GDC” or the “Company”), formerly known as Code Chain New Continent Limited, TMSR Holding Company Limited and JM Global Holding Company, is a Nevada corporation and a holding company that has no material operation of its own. The Company’s current subsidiaries, Citi Profit Investment Holding Limited (“Citi Profit”), Highlights Culture Holding Co., Limited (“Highlight HK”), Shanghai Highlight Entertainment Co., Ltd. (“Highlight WFOE”), and previous subsidiaries, TMSR Holdings Limited (“TMSR HK”) and Makesi IoT Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (“Makesi WFOE”) are also holding companies with no material operations.
Shanghai Xianzhui Technology Co., Ltd. (“SH Xianzhui”) was
incorporated by Highlight WFOE and other two shareholders on August 10, 2023. SH Xianzhui is principally engaged in the provision of social
media marketing agency service. Highlight WFOE owns
AI Catalysis Corp. (“AI Catalysis”) is a Nevada corporation, incorporated on May 18, 2023. AI Catalysis is expected to bridge the realms of the internet, media, and artificial intelligence (“AI”) technologies. Positioned at the crossroads of traditional and streaming media, AI Catalysis plans to elevate the experience of media with AI-based interactive and smart content, aiming to transform the whole media landscape. At present, AI Catalysis' primary focus is the application of AI digital human technology with the sectors of e-commerce and entertainment to improve the interaction experiences online. AI Catalysis strives to deliver stable interactive livestreaming products to AI Catalysis' users. AI Catalysis foresees future expansion to a variety of business sectors with AI applications in different scenarios. AI Catalysis plans to enter into the livestreaming market with a focus on e-commerce and livestreaming interactive game.
Prior to September 28, 2022, we also conducted
business through Sichuan Wuge Network Games Co., Ltd. (“Wuge”). Makesi WFOE had a series of contractual arrangement with Wuge
that established a VIE structure. For accounting purposes, Makesi WFOE was the primary beneficiary of Wuge. Accordingly, under U.S. GAAP,
GDC treated Wuge as the consolidated affiliated entity and has consolidated Yuanma’s financial results in Wuge’s financial
statements prior to September 28, 2022. Wuge focused its business on research, development and application of Internet of Things (IoT)
and electronic tokens Wuge digital door signs. On September 28, 2022, Makesi WFOE entered into a termination agreement with Wuge and the
shareholders of Wuge to terminate the VIE Agreements and to cancel the shares previously issued to the shareholders of Wuge, based on
the average closing price of $
Prior to June 26, 2023, we had a subsidiary TMSR
HK, which owns
8
Prior to September 26, 2023, we also conducted
business through Shanghai Highlight Media Co., Ltd. (“Highlight Media”). Highlight WFOE had a series of contractual arrangement
with Highlight Media. For accounting purposes, Highlight WFOE was the primary beneficiary of Highlight Media. Accordingly, under U.S.
GAAP, GDC treated Highlight Media as the consolidated affiliated entity and has consolidated Highlight Media’s financial results
in GDC’s financial statements prior to September 26, 2023. Highlight Media was an integrated marketing service agency, focusing
on enterprise brand management, crisis public relations, intelligent public opinion monitoring, media PR, financial and economic we-media
operation, digital face application, large-scale exhibition services and other businesses. On September 26, 2023, Highlight WFOE entered
into a termination agreement with Highlight Media and the shareholders of Highlight Media to terminate the VIE Agreements and sold the
interest in the VIE Agreements for a purchase price of $
| Name | Background | Ownership | ||
| Citi Profit BVI | ||||
| TMSR HK2 | ● Incorporated on April 2019 |
|||
| Highlight HK | ● A Hong Kong company ● Incorporated on November 2022 |
|||
| Makesi WFOE2 | ● A PRC limited liability company and deemed a wholly foreign owned enterprise (WFOE) ● Incorporated on December 2020 |
|||
| Highlight WFOE | ● A PRC limited liability company and deemed a wholly foreign owned enterprise (WFOE) ● Incorporated on January 2023 |
|||
| Wuge1 | ● A PRC limited liability company ● Incorporated on July 4, 2019 |
|||
| Highlight Media3 | ● A PRC limited liability company ● Incorporated on September 16, 2022 |
|||
| AI Catalysis | ● A Nevada company ● Incorporated on May 2023 |
|||
| SH Xianzhui | ● A PRC limited liability company ● Incorporated on May 2023 |
| 1 | ||
| 2 | ||
| 3 |
Contractual Arrangements
Wuge, Yuanma, Highlight Media is controlled through contractual agreements in lieu of direct equity ownership by the Company or any of its subsidiaries. Such contractual arrangements consist of a series of five agreements, consulting services agreement, equity pledge agreement, call option agreement, voting rights proxy agreement, and operating agreement.
Material terms of each of the VIE agreements with Wuge are described below. The VIE agreements with Wuge were terminated and the Company disposed Wuge as of September 28, 2022.
9
Technical Consultation and Services Agreement.
Pursuant to the technical consultation and services agreement between Wuge and Tongrong Technology (Jiangsu) Co., Ltd., a then indirect subsidiary of the Company (“Tongrong WFOE”), dated January 3, 2020, Tongrong WFOE has the exclusive right to provide consultation services to Wuge relating to Wuge’s business, including but not limited to business consultation services, human resources development, and business development. Tongrong WFOE exclusively owns any intellectual property rights arising from the performance of this agreement. Tongrong WFOE has the right to determine the service fees based on Wuge’s actual operation on a quarterly basis. This agreement will be effective as long as Wuge exists. Tongrong WFOE may terminate this agreement at any time by giving 30 days’ prior written notice to Wuge.
Equity Pledge Agreement.
Under the equity pledge agreement among Tongrong WFOE, Wuge and the shareholders of Wuge dated January 3, 2020, the shareholders of Wuge pledged all of their equity interests in Wuge to Tongrong WFOE to guarantee Wuge’s performance of relevant obligations and indebtedness under the technical consultation and services agreement. In addition, the shareholders of Wuge will complete the registration of the equity pledge under the agreement with the competent local authority. If Wuge breaches its obligation under the technical consultation and services agreement, Tongrong WFOE, as pledgee, will be entitled to certain rights, including the right to sell the pledged equity interests. This pledge will remain effective until all the guaranteed obligations are performed or the shareholders of Wuge cease to be shareholders of Wuge.
Equity Option Agreement.
Under the equity option agreement among Tongrong WFOE, Wuge and the shareholders of Wuge dated January 3, 2020, each of the shareholders of Wuge irrevocably granted to Tongrong WFOE or its designee an option to purchase at any time, to the extent permitted under PRC law, all or a portion of his equity interests in Wuge. Also, Tongrong WFOE or its designee has the right to acquire any and all of its assets of Wuge. Without Tongrong WFOE’s prior written consent, Wuge’s shareholders cannot transfer their equity interests in Wuge and Wuge cannot transfer its assets. The acquisition price for the shares or assets will be the minimum amount of consideration permitted under the PRC law at the time of the exercise of the option. This pledge will remain effective until all options have been exercised.
Voting Rights Proxy and Financial Support Agreement.
Under the voting rights proxy and financial support
agreement among Tongrong WFOE, Wuge and the shareholders of Wuge dated January 3, 2020, each Wuge Shareholder irrevocably appointed Tongrong
WFOE as its attorney-in-fact to exercise on such shareholder’s behalf any and all rights that such shareholder has in respect of
his equity interests in Wuge, including but not limited to the power to vote on its behalf on all matters of Wuge requiring shareholder
approval in accordance with the articles of association of Wuge. The proxy agreement is for a term of
On January 11, 2021, Makesi WFOE entered into a series of assignment agreements with Tongrong WFOE, Wuge and the shareholders of Wuge, pursuant to which Tongrong WFOE assign all its rights and obligations under the VIE agreements to Makesi WFOE. The VIE agreements and the assignment agreements granted Makesi WFOE with the power, rights and obligations equivalent in all material respects to those it would possess as the sole equity holder of Wuge, including absolute rights to control the management, operations, assets, property and revenue of Wuge. The assignment did not have any impact on Company’s consolidated financial statements.
10
On September 28, 2022, Makesi WFOE entered into
a termination agreement with Wuge and the shareholders of Wuge to terminate the VIE agreements and to cancel the shares previously issued
to the shareholders of Wuge, based on the average closing price of $
Material terms of each of the VIE agreements with Yuanma are described below. The Company disposed TMSR HK, Makesi WFOE and Yuanma on June 26, 2023.
Technical Consultation and Services Agreement.
Pursuant to the technical consultation and services agreement between WFOE and Yuanma dated June 21, 2022, WFOE has the exclusive right to provide consultation services to Yuanma relating to Yuanma’s business, including but not limited to business consultation services, human resources development, and business development. WFOE exclusively owns any intellectual property rights arising from the performance of this agreement. WFOE has the right to determine the service fees based on Yuanma’s actual operation on a quarterly basis. This agreement will be effective for 20 years and can be extended by WFOE unilaterally by prior written notice to the other parties. WFOE may terminate this agreement at any time by giving a 30 days’ prior written notice to Yuanma. If any party breaches the agreement and fails to cure within 30 days from the written notice from the non-breach party, the non-breach party may (i) terminate the agreement and request the breaching party to compensate the non-breaching party’s loss or (ii) request special performance by the breaching party and the breaching party to compensate the non-breaching party’s loss.
Equity Pledge Agreement.
Under the equity pledge agreement among WFOE, Yuanma and Yuanma Shareholders dated June 21, 2022, Yuanma Shareholders pledged all of their equity interests in Yuanma to WFOE to guarantee Yuanma’s performance of relevant obligations and indebtedness under the technical consultation and services agreement. In addition, Yuanma Shareholders will complete the registration of the equity pledge under the agreement with the competent local authority. If Yuanma breaches its obligation under the technical consultation and services agreement, WFOE, as pledgee, will be entitled to certain rights, including the right to sell the pledged equity interests. This pledge will remain effective until all the guaranteed obligations are performed or the Yuanma Shareholders cease to be shareholders of Yuanma.
Equity Option Agreement.
Under the equity option agreement among WFOE, Yuanma and Yuanma Shareholders dated June 21, 2022, each of Yuanma Shareholders irrevocably granted to WFOE or its designee an option to purchase at any time, to the extent permitted under PRC law, all or a portion of his equity interests in Yuanma. Also, WFOE or its designee has the right to acquire any and all of its assets of Yuanma. Without WFOE’s prior written consent, Yuanma’s shareholders cannot transfer their equity interests in Yuanma and Yuanma cannot transfer its assets. The acquisition price for the shares or assets will be the minimum amount of consideration permitted under the PRC law at the time of the exercise of the option. This pledge will remain effective until all options have been exercised.
Voting Rights Proxy and Financial Support Agreement.
Under the voting rights proxy and financial support
agreement among WFOE, Yuanma and Yuanma Shareholders dated June 21, 2022, each Yuanma Shareholder irrevocably appointed WFOE as its attorney-in-fact
to exercise on such shareholder’s behalf any and all rights that such shareholder has in respect of his equity interests in Yuanma,
including but not limited to the power to vote on its behalf on all matters of Yuanma requiring shareholder approval in accordance with
the articles of association of Yuanma. The proxy agreement is for a term of
On June 26, 2023, the Company entered into a share
purchase agreement with a buyer unaffiliated with the Company. Pursuant to the agreement, the Company agreed to sell and the buyer agreed
to purchase all the issued and outstanding equity interest in TMSR HK. The purchase price for the transaction contemplated by the Agreement
was $
Material terms of each of the VIE agreements with Highlight Media are described below. The VIE agreements with Highlight Media were terminated and the Company disposed Highlight Media as of September 26, 2023.
11
Technical Consultation and Services Agreement.
Pursuant to the technical consultation and services agreement between Highlight Media and Makesi WFOE dated September 16, 2022, Makesi WFOE has the exclusive right to provide consultation services to Highlight Media relating to Highlight Media’s business, including but not limited to business consultation services, human resources development, and business development. Makesi WFOE exclusively owns any intellectual property rights arising from the performance of this agreement. Makesi WFOE has the right to determine the service fees based on Highlight Media’s actual operation on a quarterly basis. This agreement will be effective as long as Highlight Media exists. Makesi WFOE may terminate this agreement at any time by giving a 30 days’ prior written notice to Highlight Media.
Equity Pledge Agreement.
Under the equity pledge agreement among Makesi WFOE, Highlight Media and the shareholders of Highlight Media dated September 16, 2022, the shareholders of Highlight Media pledged all of their equity interests in Highlight Media to Makesi WFOE to guarantee Highlight Media’s performance of relevant obligations and indebtedness under the technical consultation and services agreement. In addition, the shareholders of Highlight Media will complete the registration of the equity pledge under the agreement with the competent local authority. If Highlight Media breaches its obligation under the technical consultation and services agreement, Makesi WFOE, as pledgee, will be entitled to certain rights, including the right to sell the pledged equity interests. This pledge will remain effective until all the guaranteed obligations are performed or the shareholders of Highlight Media cease to be shareholders of Highlight Media.
Equity Option Agreement.
Under the equity option agreement among Makesi WFOE, Highlight Media and the shareholders of Highlight Media dated September 16, 2022, each of the shareholders of Highlight Media irrevocably granted to Makesi WFOE or its designee an option to purchase at any time, to the extent permitted under PRC law, all or a portion of his equity interests in Highlight Media. Also, Makesi WFOE or its designee has the right to acquire any and all of its assets of Highlight Media. Without Makesi WFOE’s prior written consent, Highlight Media’s shareholders cannot transfer their equity interests in Highlight Media and Highlight Media cannot transfer its assets. The acquisition price for the shares or assets will be the minimum amount of consideration permitted under the PRC law at the time of the exercise of the option. This pledge will remain effective until all options have been exercised.
Voting Rights Proxy and Financial Support Agreement.
Under the voting rights proxy and financial support
agreement among Makesi WFOE, Highlight Media and the shareholders of Highlight Media dated September 16, 2022, each Highlight Media Shareholder
irrevocably appointed Makesi WFOE as its attorney-in-fact to exercise on such shareholder’s behalf any and all rights that such
shareholder has in respect of his equity interests in Highlight Media, including but not limited to the power to vote on its behalf on
all matters of Highlight Media requiring shareholder approval in accordance with the articles of association of Highlight Media. The proxy
agreement is for a term of
On February 27, 2023, Highlight WFOE entered into a series of assignment agreements with Makesi WFOE, Highlight Media and Highlight Shareholders, pursuant to which Makesi WFOE assign all its rights and obligations under the VIE agreements to Highlight WFOE. The VIE agreements and the assignment agreements grant Highlight WFOE with the power, rights and obligations equivalent in all material respects to those it would possess as the sole equity holder of Highlight Media, including absolute rights to control the management, operations, assets, property and revenue of Highlight Media. The assignment does not have any impact on Company’s consolidated financial statements.
On September 26, 2023, Highlight WFOE entered
into a termination agreement with Highlight Media and the shareholders of Highlight Media to terminate the VIE Agreements and sold the
interest in the VIE Agreements for a purchase price of $
As of the date of this report, the Company primary operations are focused on the Highlight Media business that is in enterprise brand management service in China, and on the AI Catalysis business that is in the livestreaming market with focus on e-commerce and livestreaming interactive game in the United States. All Wuge digital door signs business have been disposed.
12
Note 2 – Summary of significant accounting policies
Basis of presentation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) for information pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities Exchange Commission (“SEC”).
Principles of consolidation
The unaudited condensed financial statements of the Company include the accounts of GDC and its wholly owned subsidiaries and VIE. All intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated upon consolidation.
Use of estimates and assumptions
The preparation of unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the periods presented. Significant accounting estimates reflected in the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the useful lives of intangible assets, deferred revenues and plant and equipment, impairment of long-lived assets, collectability of receivables, present value and lease liabilities. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
Foreign currency translation and transaction
The reporting currency of the Company is the U.S. dollar. The Company in China conducts its businesses in the local currency, Renminbi (RMB), as its functional currency. Assets and liabilities are translated at the unified exchange rate as quoted by the People’s Bank of China at the end of the period. The statement of income accounts are translated at the average translation rates and the equity accounts are translated at historical rates. Translation adjustments resulting from this process are included in accumulated other comprehensive income. Transaction gains and losses that arise from exchange rate fluctuations on transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency are included in the results of operations as incurred.
Translation adjustments included in accumulated
other comprehensive income amounted to $
The PRC government imposes significant exchange restrictions on fund transfers out of the PRC that are not related to business operations. These restrictions have not had a material impact on the Company because it has not engaged in any significant transactions that are subject to the restrictions.
Accounts receivable, net
Accounts receivable include trade accounts due from customers. An allowance for doubtful accounts may be established and recorded based on management’s assessment of potential losses based on the credit history and relationships with the customers. Management reviews its receivables on a regular basis to determine if the bad debt allowance is adequate, and adjusts the allowance when necessary. Delinquent account balances are written-off against allowance for doubtful accounts after management has determined that the likelihood of collection is not probable.
13
Prepayments
Prepayments are funds deposited or advanced to outside vendors for future inventory or services purchases. As a standard practice in China, many of the Company’s vendors require a certain amount to be deposited with them as a guarantee that the Company will complete its purchases on a timely basis. This amount is refundable and bears no interest. The Company has legally binding contracts with its vendors, which require any outstanding prepayments to be returned to the Company when the contract ends.
Plant and equipment
Plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated
depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method after consideration of the estimated useful lives of the assets
and estimated residual value.
| Useful Life | Estimated Residual Value | |||||||
| Office equipment and furnishing | % | |||||||
The cost and related accumulated depreciation of assets sold or otherwise retired are eliminated from the accounts and any gain or loss is included in the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to earnings as incurred, while additions, renewals and betterments, which are expected to extend the useful life of assets, are capitalized. The Company also re-evaluates the periods of depreciation to determine whether subsequent events and circumstances warrant revised estimates of useful lives.
Intangible assets
Intangible assets represent software, and it is
stated at cost, less accumulated amortization. Research and development costs associated with internally developed patents are expensed
when incurred. Amortization expense is recognized on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. The software
has finite useful lives and is amortized using a straight-line method that reflects the estimated pattern in which the economic benefits
of the intangible asset are to be consumed. The Company amortizes the cost of software, over their useful life using the straight-line
method. The Company also re-evaluates the periods of amortization to determine whether subsequent events and circumstances revised estimates
of useful lives.
| Useful Life | ||
| Software |
Lease
The Company determines if an arrangement is a lease at inception. Leases that transfer substantially all of the benefits and risks incidental to the ownership of assets are accounted for as finance leases as if there was an acquisition of an asset and incurrence of an obligation at the inception of the lease. All other leases are accounted for as operating leases. The Company has no significant finance leases.
The Company recognizes lease liabilities and corresponding right-of-use assets on the balance sheet for leases. Operating lease right- of-use assets are included in non-current prepayments, receivables and other assets and operating lease liabilities are included in current accrued expenses, accounts payable and other liabilities and other non-current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. Operating lease right-of-use assets and operating lease liabilities are initially recognized based on the present value of future lease payments at lease commencement. The operating lease right-of-use asset also includes any lease payments made prior to lease commencement and the initial direct costs incurred by the lessee and is recorded net of any lease incentives received. As the interest rates implicit in most of the leases are not readily determinable, the Company uses the incremental borrowing rates based on the information available at lease commencement to determine the present value of the future lease payments. Operating lease expenses are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease.
14
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the consideration paid of an acquisition over the fair value of the net identifiable assets of the acquired subsidiary at the date of acquisition. Goodwill is not amortized and is tested for impairment at least annually, more often when circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred. Goodwill is carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses. In accordance with ASC 350, the Company may first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test. In the qualitative assessment, the Company considers factors such as macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, overall financial performance of the reporting unit, and other specific information related to the operations, business plans and strategies of the reporting unit, including consideration of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on the qualitative assessment, if it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than the carrying amount, the quantitative impairment test is performed. The Company may also bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to perform the quantitative impairment test. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill is not considered to be impaired. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value is recognized as impairment. Application of a goodwill impairment test requires significant management judgment, including the identification of reporting units, allocation of assets, liabilities and goodwill to reporting units, and determination of the fair value of each reporting unit.
Impairment for long-lived assets
Long-lived assets, including plant, equipment and intangible assets with finite lives are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances (such as a significant adverse change to market conditions that will impact the future use of the assets) indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable. The Company assesses the recoverability of the assets based on the undiscounted future cash flows the assets are expected to generate and recognize an impairment loss when estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset plus net proceeds expected from disposition of the asset, if any, are less than the carrying value of the asset. If an impairment is identified, the Company would reduce the carrying amount of the asset to its estimated fair value based on a discounted cash flows approach or, when available and appropriate, to comparable market values.
Fair value measurement
The accounting standard regarding fair value of financial instruments and related fair value measurements defines financial instruments and requires disclosure of the fair value of financial instruments held by the Company. The Company considers the carrying amount of cash, notes receivable, accounts receivable, other receivables, prepayments, accounts payable, other payables and accrued liabilities, customer deposits and taxes payable to approximate their fair values because of their short term nature.
The accounting standards define fair value, establish a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosures of fair value measurement and enhance disclosure requirements for fair value measures. The three levels are defined as follow:
| ● | Level 1 inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets. |
| ● | Level 2 inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the assets or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instruments. |
| ● | Level 3 inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value. |
Financial instruments included in current assets and current liabilities are reported in the consolidated balance sheets at face value or cost, which approximate fair value because of the short period of time between the origination of such instruments and their expected realization and their current market rates of interest.
15
Customer deposits
Highlight Media typically receives customer deposits for services to be rendered from its customers. As Highlight Media delivers the services, it will recognize these deposits to results of operations in accordance to its revenue recognition policy.
Revenue recognition
On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-09 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASC 606) using the modified retrospective method for contracts that were not completed as of January 1, 2018. This did not result in an adjustment to retained earnings upon adoption of this new guidance as the Company’s revenue, other than retainage revenues, was recognized based on the amount of consideration we expect to receive in exchange for satisfying the performance obligations. However, the impact of the Company’s retainage revenue was not material as of the date of adoption, and as a result, did not result in an adjustment.
The core principle underlying the revenue recognition ASU is that the Company will recognize revenue to represent the transfer of goods and services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled in such exchange. This will require the Company to identify contractual performance obligations and determine whether revenue should be recognized at a point in time or over time, based on when control of goods and services transfers to a customer. The Company’s revenue streams are primarily recognized at a point in time.
The ASU requires the use of a new five-step model to recognize revenue from customer contracts. The five-step model requires that the Company (i) identify the contract with the customer, (ii) identify the performance obligations in the contract, (iii) determine the transaction price, including variable consideration to the extent that it is probable that a significant future reversal will not occur, (iv) allocate the transaction price to the respective performance obligations in the contract, and (v) recognize revenue when (or as) the Company satisfies the performance obligation. The application of the five-step model to the revenue streams compared to the prior guidance did not result in significant changes in the way the Company records its revenue. Upon adoption, the Company evaluated its revenue recognition policy for all revenue streams within the scope of the ASU under previous standards and using the five-step model under the new guidance and confirmed that there were no differences in the pattern of revenue recognition except its retainage revenues.
An entity will also be required to determine if it controls the goods or services prior to the transfer to the customer in order to determine if it should account for the arrangement as a principal or agent. Principal arrangements, where the entity controls the goods or services provided, will result in the recognition of the gross amount of consideration expected in the exchange. Agent arrangements, where the entity simply arranges but does not control the goods or services being transferred to the customer, will result in the recognition of the net amount the entity is entitled to retain in the exchange.
The company, as a principal, provides services to clients under separate contracts, generating revenue. The pricing terms specified in the contracts are fixed. An obligation to perform is identified in contracts with clients. Revenue is recognized over the period in which the services are earned.
Payments received prior to the relevant criteria for revenue recognition are met, are recorded as customer deposits.
| For the Three Months Ended September 30, | For the Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | 2023 | 2022 | |||||||||||||
| Software copyright | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Total revenues | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
16
Income taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with U.S. GAAP for income taxes. The charge for taxation is based on the results for the fiscal year as adjusted for items, which are non-assessable or disallowed. It is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.
Deferred taxes is accounted for using the asset and liability method in respect of temporary differences arising from differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities in the consolidated financial statements and the corresponding tax basis used in the computation of assessable tax profit. In principle, deferred tax liabilities are recognized for all taxable temporary differences. Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which deductible temporary differences can be utilized. Deferred tax is calculated using tax rates that are expected to apply to the period when the asset is realized or the liability is settled. Deferred tax is charged or credited in the income statement, except when it is related to items credited or charged directly to equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in equity. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Current income taxes are provided for in accordance with the laws of the relevant taxing authorities.
An uncertain tax position is recognized as a benefit
only if it is “more likely than not” that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax examination
being presumed to occur.
Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share are computed by dividing
income available to common shareholders of the Company by the weighted average common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings
per share takes into account the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common shares were exercised
and converted into common shares.
Reclassification
Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. These reclassifications had no impact on net earnings (loss) or and financial position.
Recently accounting pronouncements
In October 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021-08, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Accounting for Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities from Contracts with Customers (ASU 2021-08), which clarifies that an acquirer of a business should recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities in a business combination in accordance with Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The new amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments should be applied prospectively to business combinations occurring on or after the effective date of the amendments, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new guidance on the consolidated financial statements.
In June 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-03, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Fair Value Measurement of Equity Securities Subject to Contractual Sale Restrictions”, which clarifies that a contractual restriction on the sale of an equity security is not considered part of the unit of account of the equity security and, therefore, is not considered in measuring fair value. The amendments also clarify that an entity cannot, as a separate unit of account, recognize and measure a contractual sale restriction. This guidance also requires certain disclosures for equity securities subject to contractual sale restrictions. The new guidance is required to be applied prospectively with any adjustments from the adoption of the amendments recognized in earnings and disclosed on the date of adoption. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after 15 December 2023, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect that the adoption of this guidance will have a material impact on the financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
17
In June 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-03, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Fair Value Measurement of Equity Securities Subject to Contractual Sale Restrictions”, which clarifies that a contractual restriction on the sale of an equity security is not considered part of the unit of account of the equity security and, therefore, is not considered in measuring fair value. The amendments also clarify that an entity cannot, as a separate unit of account, recognize and measure a contractual sale restriction. This guidance also requires certain disclosures for equity securities subject to contractual sale restrictions. The new guidance is required to be applied prospectively with any adjustments from the adoption of the amendments recognized in earnings and disclosed on the date of adoption. This guidance is effective for the Company for the year ending March 31, 2025 and interim reporting periods during the year ending March 31, 2025. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect that the adoption of this guidance will have a material impact on the financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
The Company does not believe other recently issued but not yet effective accounting standards, if currently adopted, would have a material effect on the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets, statements of income and comprehensive income and statements of cash flows.
Note 3 – Business combination and restructuring
Highlight Media
On September 16, 2022, the Company entered into
a share purchase agreement with Highlight Media and all the shareholders of Highlight Media (“Highlight Media Shareholders”).
Pursuant to the share purchase agreement, the Company agreed to issue an aggregate of
On February 27, 2023, Highlight WFOE entered into a series of assignment agreements (the “Assignment Agreements”) with Makesi WFOE, Highlight Media and Highlight Shareholders, pursuant to which Makesi WFOE assign all its rights and obligations under the VIE Agreements to Highlight WFOE (the “Assignment”). The VIE Agreements and the Assignment Agreements grant Highlight WFOE with the power, rights and obligations equivalent in all material respects to those it would possess as the sole equity holder of Highlight Media, including absolute rights to control the management, operations, assets, property and revenue of Highlight Media. The Assignment does not have any impact on Company’s consolidated financial statements.
The Company’s acquisition of Highlight Media was accounted for as a business combination in accordance with ASC 805. The Company has allocated the purchase price of Highlight Media based upon the fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed on the acquisition date. Other current assets and current liabilities were valued using the cost approach. Management of the Company is responsible for determining the fair value of assets acquired, liabilities assumed, plant and equipment, and intangible assets identified as of the acquisition date and considered a number of factors including valuations from independent appraisers. Acquisition-related costs incurred for the acquisitions are not material and have been expensed as incurred in general and administrative expenses.
18
| Total consideration at fair value | $ |
| Fair Value | ||||
| Cash | $ | |||
| Other current assets | ||||
| Plant and equipment | ||||
| Other noncurrent assets | ||||
| Goodwill | ||||
| Total asset | ||||
| Accounts payable | ||||
| Taxes Payable | ||||
| Other Payable | ||||
| Total liabilities | ||||
| Net asset acquired | $ | |||
Approximately $
Note 4 – Variable interest entity
Wuge
On January 3, 2020, Tongrong WFOE entered into contractual arrangements with Wuge and its shareholders. The significant terms of these contractual arrangements are summarized in “Note 1 - Nature of business and organization” above. As a result, the Company classified Wuge as VIE.
On January 11, 2021, Makesi WFOE entered into a series of assignment agreements with Tongrong WFOE, Wuge and the shareholders of Wuge, pursuant to which Tongrong WFOE assign all its rights and obligations under the VIE agreements to Makesi WFOE. The VIE agreements and the assignment agreements granted Makesi WFOE with the power, rights and obligations equivalent in all material respects to those it would possess as the sole equity holder of Wuge, including absolute rights to control the management, operations, assets, property and revenue of Wuge. The assignment did not have any impact on Company’s consolidated financial statements.
On September 28, 2022, Makesi WFOE entered into
a termination agreement with Wuge and the shareholders of Wuge to terminate the VIE agreements and to cancel the shares previously issued
to the shareholders of Wuge, based on the average closing price of $
19
Yuanma
On June 21, 2022, Makesi WFOE entered into a series of contractual arrangements with Yuanma and its shareholders. The significant terms of these contractual arrangements are summarized in “Note 1 - Nature of business and organization” above. As a result, the Company classified Yuanma as VIE.
On June 26, 2023, GDC entered into a share purchase
agreement with a buyer unaffiliated with the Company. Pursuant to the agreement, the Company agreed to sell and the buyer agreed to purchase
all the issued and outstanding equity interest in TMSR HK. The purchase price for the transaction contemplated by the Agreement was $
Highlight Media
On September 16, 2022, Makesi WFOE entered into contractual arrangements with Highlight Media and its shareholders. The significant terms of these contractual arrangements are summarized in “Note 1 - Nature of business and organization” above. As a result, the Company classifies Highlight Media as VIE.
On February 27, 2023, Highlight WFOE entered into a series of assignment agreements with Makesi WFOE, Highlight Media and Highlight Shareholders, pursuant to which Makesi WFOE assign all its rights and obligations under the VIE agreements to Highlight WFOE. The VIE agreements and the assignment agreements granted Highlight WFOE with the power, rights and obligations equivalent in all material respects to those it would possess as the sole equity holder of Highlight Media, including absolute rights to control the management, operations, assets, property and revenue of Highlight Media. The assignment did not have any impact on Company’s consolidated financial statements.
A VIE is an entity that has either a total equity investment that is insufficient to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support, or whose equity investors lack the characteristics of a controlling financial interest, such as through voting rights, right to receive the expected residual returns of the entity or obligation to absorb the expected losses of the entity. The variable interest holder, if any, that has a controlling financial interest in a VIE is deemed to be the primary beneficiary and must consolidate the VIE. Makesi WFOE is deemed to have a controlling financial interest and be the primary beneficiary of Highlight Media because it has both of the following characteristics:
| (1) | The power to direct activities at Highlight Media that most significantly impact such entity’s economic performance, and |
| (2) | The obligation to absorb losses of, and the right to receive benefits from Highlight Media that could potentially be significant to such entity. |
Accordingly, the accounts of Highlight Media are consolidated in the accompanying financial statements pursuant to ASC 810-10, Consolidation. In addition, its financial positions and results of operations are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements prior to September 30, 2023.
On September 26, 2023, Highlight WFOE entered
into a termination agreement with Highlight Media and the shareholders of Highlight Media to terminate the VIE Agreements and sell the
interest in the VIE Agreements for a purchase price of $
20
| September 30, | December 31, | |||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | ||||||||
| Accounts receivable, net | ||||||||
| Other receivables, net | ||||||||
| Prepayments | ||||||||
| Total current assets | $ | $ | ||||||
| Plants and equipment | ||||||||
| Goodwill | ||||||||
| Total assets | ||||||||
| Current liabilities | ||||||||
| Non-current liabilities | ||||||||
| Total liabilities | ||||||||
| Net assets | $ | $ | ||||||
| Accounts payable | $ | $ | ||||||
| Other payables and accrued liabilities | ||||||||
| Other payables – related party | ||||||||
| Tax payables | ||||||||
| Customer Advances | ||||||||
| Wages payable | ||||||||
| Total current liabilities | ||||||||
| Lease liabilities – non-current | ||||||||
| Total liabilities | $ | $ | ||||||
| For the Nine Months Ended September 30, | ||||
| 2023 | ||||
| Operating revenues | $ | |||
| Gross profit | ||||
| Income from operations | ||||
| Net loss | $ |
Note 5 – Accounts receivable
| September 30, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Accounts receivable | $ | $ | ||||||
| Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts | - | ( | ) | |||||
| Total accounts receivable, net | $ | $ | ||||||
21
| September 30, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Beginning balance | $ | ( | ) | $ | - | |||
| Addition | ( | ) | ||||||
| Disposal of Highlight Media | ||||||||
| Exchange rate effect | ||||||||
| Ending balance | $ | - | $ | ( | ) | |||
Note 6 – Other receivables
| September 30, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Receivable from disposal of Wuge | $ | $ | ||||||
| Receivable from disposal of Highlight Media | ||||||||
| Interest receivable from convertible notes | ||||||||
| Others | ||||||||
| Total other receivables, net | $ | $ | ||||||
The balance of $
The balance of $
Note 7 – Plant and equipment, net
September 30, | December
31, | |||||||
| Office equipment and furniture | $ | $ | ||||||
| Subtotal | ||||||||
| Less: accumulated depreciation | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Total | $ | $ | ||||||
Depreciation expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and
2022 amounted to $
Note 8 – Intangible assets, net
September 30, | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Software | $ | $ | ||||||
| Subtotal | ||||||||
| Less: accumulated amortization | ( | ) | - | |||||
| Total | $ | $ | ||||||
Amortization expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and
2022 amounted to $
22
Note 9 – Goodwill
| Highlight
Media | Total | |||||||
| Balance as of December 31, 2022 | $ | $ | ||||||
| Impairment | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Foreign currency translation adjustment | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Balance as of September 30, 2023 | $ | $ | ||||||
Note 10 – Related party balances and transactions
Related party balances
| Name of related party | Relationship | September 30, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| XIAO JIAN WANG | $ | $ | ||||||||
| Total | $ | $ | ||||||||
The above balances represent travel advances to the Chief Executive Officer of the Company.
Other payables – related parties:
| Name of related party | Relationship | September 30, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Shanghai Highlight Asset Management Co. LTD | $ | $ | ||||||||
| Total | $ | $ | ||||||||
The above payables represent interest free loans and advances. These loans and advances are unsecured and due on demand.
Note 11 – Long-term investment, net
September 30, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Available-for-sale debt investments | $ | $ | ||||||
| Total | $ | $ | ||||||
As of September 30, 2023, the Company subscribed to a total
of $
23
Note 12 – Leases
Leases are classified as operating leases or finance
leases in accordance with ASC 842. The Company’s operating leases mainly related to the rights to use building and office facilities.
| September 30, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Weighted average discount rate: | ||||||||
| Operating lease | ||||||||
| Weighted average discount rate: | ||||||||
| Operating lease | % | |||||||
September 30, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Operating lease right-of-use assets, net | ||||||||
| Operating lease | ||||||||
| Lease liabilities | ||||||||
| Current portion of operating lease liabilities | ||||||||
| Non-current portion of operating lease liabilities | ||||||||
| Operating Leases | ||||
| FY2024 | ||||
| FY2025 | ||||
| FY2026 | ||||
| FY2027 | ||||
| FY2028 | ||||
| Total lease payments | ||||
| Less: imputed interest | ||||
| Present value of lease liabilities (1) | ||||
| (1) |
24
Note 13 – Taxes
Income tax
United States
GDC was organized in the state of
Delaware in April 2015 and the nine months ended September 30, 2023 amounted to . As of September 30, 2023, GDC’s net operating
loss carry forward for United States income taxes was approximately $
On December 22, 2017, the “Tax Cuts and
Jobs Act” (“The 2017 Tax Act”) was enacted in the United States. Under the provisions of the Act, the U.S. corporate
tax rate decreased from
Cayman Islands
China Sunlong is incorporated in the Cayman Islands and are not subject to tax on income or capital gains under current Cayman Islands law. In addition, upon payments of dividends by China Sunlong to its shareholders, no Cayman Islands withholding tax will be imposed.
British Virgin Islands
Citi Profit BVI is incorporated in the British Virgin Islands and are not subject to tax on income or capital gains under current British Virgin Islands law. In addition, upon payments of dividends by these entities to their shareholders, no British Virgin Islands withholding tax will be imposed.
Hong Kong
TMSR HK and Highlight HK are incorporated
in Hong Kong and are subject to Hong Kong Profits Tax on the taxable income as reported in its statutory financial statements adjusted
in accordance with relevant Hong Kong tax laws. The applicable tax rate is
PRC
Makesi WFOE, Highlight WFOE, Highlight
Media and SH Xianzhui are governed by the income tax laws of the PRC and the income tax provision in respect to operations in the PRC
is calculated at the applicable tax rates on the taxable income for the periods based on existing legislation, interpretations and practices
in respect thereof. Under the Enterprise Income Tax Laws of the PRC (the “EIT Laws”), Chinese enterprises are subject to income
tax at a rate of
25
Deferred tax assets
| September 30, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| Net operating losses carried forward – U.S. | $ | $ | ||||||
| Valuation allowance | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Deferred tax assets, net | $ | $ | ||||||
Value added tax
Enterprises or individuals who
sell commodities, engage in repair and maintenance or import and export goods in the PRC are subject to a value added tax in accordance
with PRC laws. The value added tax (“VAT”) standard rates are
September 30, | December 31, 2022 | |||||||
| VAT taxes payable | $ | $ | ||||||
| Other taxes payable | ||||||||
| Total | $ | $ | ||||||
Note 14 – Concentration of risk
Credit risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject
the Company to significant concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and accounts receivable. As of September 30, 2023 and
December 31, 2022, $
Accounts receivable are typically unsecured and derived from revenue earned from customers, thereby exposed to credit risk. The risk is mitigated by the Company’s assessment of its customers’ creditworthiness and its ongoing monitoring of outstanding balances.
26
Note 15 – Equity
Restricted net assets
The Company’s ability to pay dividends is primarily dependent on the Company receiving distributions of funds from its subsidiaries. Relevant PRC statutory laws and regulations permit payments of dividends by Highlight WFOE only out of its retained earnings, if any, as determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. The results of operations reflected in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP differ from those reflected in the statutory financial statements of Highlight WFOE.
Highlight WFOE and Highlight Media
are required to set aside at least
As a result of the foregoing restrictions,
Highlight WFOE and Highlight Media are restricted in their ability to transfer their net assets to the Company. Foreign exchange and other
regulation in the PRC may further restrict Highlight WFOE and Highlight Media from transferring funds to Highlight HK in the form of dividends,
loans and advances. As of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, amounts restricted are the net assets of Highlight WFOE and Highlight
Media which amounted to and $
Common stock
27
On June 22, 2023, the Company entered
into a software purchase agreement with Northeast Management LLC, a seller unaffiliated with the Company. Pursuant to the agreement, the
Company agreed to purchase and the seller agreed to sell all of seller’s right, title, and interest in and to the certain software.
The purchase price of the software shall be $
Warrants and options
The sponsor of the
Company purchased, simultaneously with the closing of the Public Offering on July 29, 2015,
28
The aforementioned warrants and options are deemed to be effective on February 6, 2018, the date of the consummation of its initial business combination with China Sunlong, as the Company was deemed to be the accounting acquiree in the transaction and the transaction was treated as a recapitalization of China Sunlong.
After the 1-for-30 reverse stock split effective on November 9, 2022, all options, warrants and other convertible securities of the Company outstanding immediately prior to the reverse stock split were adjusted by dividing the number of shares of common stock into which the options, warrants and other convertible securities are exercisable or convertible by thirty (30) and multiplying the exercise or conversion price thereof by thirty (30), all in accordance with the terms of the plans, agreements or arrangements governing such options, warrants and other convertible securities and subject to rounding to the nearest whole share.
On February 18, 2021, we entered into a securities
purchase agreement (the “Securities Purchase Agreement”) with certain purchasers, pursuant to which, on February 22, 2021,
we sold (i)
The Registered Warrants have a term of five years
and are exercisable immediately at an exercise price of $
The Unregistered Warrants have a term of five
and one-half years and are first exercisable on the date that is the earlier of (i) six months after the date of issuance or (ii) the
date on which the Company obtains stockholder approval approving the sale of the securities sold under the Securities Purchase Agreement,
to purchase an aggregate of up to
The Offering was conducted pursuant to a placement
agency agreement, dated February 18, 2021 (the “Placement Agency Agreement”), between the Company and Univest Securities,
LLC (the “Placement Agent”), on a “reasonable best efforts” basis. The Company paid the Placement Agent a cash
fee of $
Pursuant to the Securities Purchase Agreement,
we are required to hold a meeting of our stockholders not later than April 29, 2021 to seek such approval as may be required from our
stockholders (the “Stockholder Approval”), in accordance with applicable law, the applicable rules and regulations of the
Nasdaq Stock Market, our certificate of incorporation and bylaws and the Nevada Revised Statutes with respect to the issuance of the securities
in the Offering, including the Warrants sold in the Private Placement, so that the issuance by us of shares of common stock in excess
of the
On April 29, 2021, we held a special meeting of
stockholders and approved the issuance of shares of common stock in excess of the
29
On May 1, 2023, the Company entered into a placement agency agreement, as amended on May 16, 2023 (the “Placement Agency Agreement”), with Univest Securities, LLC (the “Placement Agent”). Pursuant to the Placement Agency Agreement, the Placement Agent agrees to use its reasonable best efforts to sell the Company’s common stock in a registered direct offering (the “RD Offering”), and a concurrent private placement (the “PIPE Offering”, together with the RD Offering, collectively the “Offering”). The Placement Agent has no obligation to buy any of the securities from us or to arrange for the purchase or sale of any specific number or dollar amount of securities.
In the RD Offering, an aggregate of
In connection with the Pre-Funded Warrant Shares,
“Pre-funded” refers to the fact that the purchase price of the warrants in the offering includes almost the entire exercise
price that will be paid under the Pre-funded Warrants, except for a nominal remaining exercise price of $
In the concurrent PIPE Offering, warrants to purchase
up to
The Company also paid the Placement Agent a total
cash fee equal to
| Warrants | Exercisable Into Number of | Weighted Average Exercise | Average Remaining Contractual | |||||||||||||
| Outstanding | Shares | Price | Life | |||||||||||||
| December 31, 2022 | | |||||||||||||||
| Granted/Acquired | $ | |||||||||||||||
| Expired | $ | |||||||||||||||
| Exercised | ||||||||||||||||
| September 30, 2023 | $ | |||||||||||||||
The summary of option activity is as follows:
| Options | Exercisable Into Number of | Weighted Average Exercise | Average Remaining Contractual | |||||||||||||
| Outstanding | Shares | Price | Life | |||||||||||||
| December 31, 2022 | $ | |||||||||||||||
| Granted/Acquired | $ | |||||||||||||||
| Expired | $ | |||||||||||||||
| Exercised | ||||||||||||||||
| September 30, 2023 | - | - | $ | - | ||||||||||||
30
Note 16 – Commitments and contingencies
Contingencies
From time to time, the Company may be subject to certain legal proceedings, claims and disputes that arise in the ordinary course of business. Although the outcomes of these legal proceedings cannot be predicted, the Company does not believe these actions, in the aggregate, will have a material adverse impact on its financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
Note 17 – Segment reporting
The Company follows ASC 280, Segment Reporting, which requires that companies disclose segment data based on how management makes decision about allocating resources to segments and evaluating their performance. The Company’s chief operating decision maker evaluates performance and determines resource allocations based on a number of factors, the primary measure being income from operations.
The Company’s remain business segment and operations are Highlight Media (prior to September 30, 2023) and AI Catalysis. The Company’s consolidated results of operations and consolidated financial position from continuing operations are almost all attributable to Highlight Media and AI Catalysis; accordingly, management believes that the consolidated balance sheets and statement of operations provide the relevant information to assess Highlight Media and AI Catalysis’s performance.
| Total assets as of | September 30, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | ||||||
| Highlight Media | $ | $ | ||||||
| SH Xianzhui | ||||||||
| GDC, AI Catalysis, Citi Profit BVI , TMSR HK , Highlight HK, Highlight WFOE and Makesi WFOE | ||||||||
| Total Assets | $ | $ | ||||||
| For the Nine Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||
| Total revenues of | 2023 | 2022 | ||||||
| Highlight Media | $ | $ | ||||||
| SH Xianzhui | ||||||||
| GDC, AI Catalysis, Citi Profit BVI , TMSR HK , Highlight HK, Highlight WFOE and Makesi WFOE | ||||||||
| Total revenues | $ | $ | ||||||
31
Note 18 – Discontinued Operations
| For the Nine Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| REVENUES | ||||||||
| Enterprise brand management services | ||||||||
| Wuge digital door signs | ||||||||
| TOTAL REVENUES | ||||||||
| COST OF REVENUES | ||||||||
| Enterprise brand management services | ||||||||
| Wuge digital door signs | ||||||||
| TOTAL COST OF REVENUES | ||||||||
| GROSS PROFIT | ||||||||
| OPERATING EXPENSES | ||||||||
| Selling, general and administrative | ||||||||
| TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES | ||||||||
| (LOSS) INCOME FROM OPERATIONS | ( | ) | ||||||
| OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE) | ||||||||
| Interest income | ||||||||
| Interest expense | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Other income, net | ||||||||
| Total other expense, net | ||||||||
| (LOSS) INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS | ( | ) | ||||||
| PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES | ||||||||
| (LOSS) INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS | ( | ) | ||||||
| Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest | ||||||||
| (LOSS) INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS OF GD CULTURE GROUP LIMITED | ( | ) | ||||||
Note 19 – Subsequent events
(i) Investment in JV
On October 27, 2023, the Company entered into
an equity purchase agreement with Highlight WFOE and Beijing Hehe, which was amended on November 10, 2023 (such equity purchase agreement,
as amended, the “Agreement” for purpose of this section “Investment in JV”), pursuant to which the Highlight WFOE
agreed to purchase
32
(ii) November 2023 Registered Direct Offering
On November 1, 2023, the Company entered into a placement agency agreement (the “Placement Agency Agreement”), with Univest Securities, LLC (the “Placement Agent” or “Univest”). Pursuant to the Placement Agency Agreement, the Placement Agent agrees to use its reasonable best efforts to sell the Company’s common stock (the “Common Stock”) in a registered direct offering (the “Offering”). The Placement Agent has no obligation to buy any of the securities from us or to arrange for the purchase or sale of any specific number or dollar amount of securities.
In the Offering, (i) an aggregate of
The Offering is being made pursuant to a shelf registration statement (No. 333-254366) on Form S-3, which was declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 26, 2021, and related prospectus supplement.
The net proceeds from the Offering, after deducting
placement agent discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by the Company, are approximately $
Pursuant to the Placement Agency Agreement, the
Company has agreed to pay the Placement Agent a total cash fee equal to
In concurrent with the Offering, on November 1,
2023, the Company entered into certain warrant exchange agreements (the “Warrant Exchange Agreements”) with certain holders
of warrants issued by the Company on May 16, 2023 in a private placement (the “Existing Warrants”), to purchase up to
On November 17, 2023, the Company entered into an amendment to the Securities Purchase Agreement with the Purchasers, pursuant to which Exhibit B to the Securities Purchase Agreement (form of Registered Warrants) was deleted and replaced with an amended and restated the Form of Registered Warrant, to remove Section 2(b) Adjustment Upon Issuance of Common Stock and Section 2(e) Other Events.
The Registered Warrants that were issued to Purchasers under the Securities Purchase Agreement were returned to and cancelled by the Company on November 17, 2023. Concurrently, the Company issued amended and restated Registered Warrants to each Purchaser.
33
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis of the results of our operations and financial condition should be read in conjunction with our unaudited condensed financial statements, and the notes to those unaudited condensed financial statements that are included elsewhere in this Report. All monetary figures are presented in U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated.
Our Management’s Discussion and Analysis contains not only statements that are historical facts, but also statements that are forward- looking. Forward-looking statements are, by their very nature, uncertain and risky. These risks and uncertainties include international, national, and local general economic and market conditions; our ability to sustain, manage, or forecast growth; our ability to successfully make and integrate acquisitions; new product development and introduction; existing government regulations and changes in, or the failure to comply with, government regulations; adverse publicity; competition; the loss of significant customers or suppliers; fluctuations and difficulty in forecasting operating results; change in business strategy or development plans; business disruptions; the ability to attract and retain qualified personnel; the ability to protect technology; the risk of foreign currency exchange rate; and other risks that might be detailed from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Although the forward-looking statements in this Report reflect the good faith judgment of our management, such statements can only be based on facts and factors currently known by them. Consequently, and because forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, the actual results and outcomes may differ materially from the results and outcomes discussed in the forward- looking statements. You are urged to carefully review and consider the various disclosures made by us in this report as we attempt to advise interested parties of the risks and factors that may affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations and prospects.
Overview
GD Culture Group Limited, formerly known as JM Global Holding Company, TMSR Holding Company Limited and Code Chain New Continent Limited (“GDC” or the “Company”), focuses its business on three segments mainly through one of its subsidiaries, AI Catalysis Corp.: 1) AI-driven digital human creation and customization; 2) Live streaming and ecommerce and 3) Live Streaming Interactive Game. The company has relentlessly been focusing on serving its customers and creating value for them through the continual innovation and optimization of its products and services.
For AI-Driven Digital Human sector, the Company uses AI algorithms and software to generate realistic 3D or 2D digital human models. AI algorithms and machine learning models are used to simulate human characteristics, such as facial expressions, body movements, and even speech patterns. These models can be customized to create and personalize lifelike digital representations of humans. Customization may involve adjusting facial features, body proportions, skin textures, hair styles, clothing, and more. Once created and customized, digital humans find applications in a wide range of industries, including gaming, entertainment, advertising, education, and more. Depending on the specific industry and use case, the Company helps the customers to define the objectives to achieve with digital humans, choose the technology for character customization, then create unique aviators and deploy in the chosen platform.
34
For e-Commerce and Live Streaming sector, the Company applies Digital Human technology in live streaming e-commerce businesses. Livestream usage is taking off globally. The integration of cutting-edge AI digital human technologies and live streaming platforms will transform the way businesses, sellers and consumers engage in online commerce. Digital anchors can offer long-duration intelligent live broadcasting. It also supports customized avatars that perfectly adapt to different live streaming scenarios. The company has introduced online e-commerce businesses on TikTok.
For Live Streaming Interactive Game sector, the Company has launched a live-streamed game called "Trible Light." This game is owned by the company, and we independently operate it. Currently, the game is being livestreamed on TikTok (TikTok account: almplify001). In addition to "Trible Light," we have also introduced other licensed games on the same TikTok account, providing a diverse gaming experience for our players.
We generate our revenue primarily from: 1) Service revenue and advertising revenue from Digital Human Creation and Customization; 2) Products’ Sales revenue from social live streaming ecommerce business; and 3) Virtual paid gifts revenue from live streaming interactive gaming.
Our principal executive office is located at 810 Seventh Avenue, 22nd Floor, New York, NY 10019, and our telephone number is: +1-347-2590292.
Discontinued Business
Prior to September 28, 2022, we also conducted business through Wuge Network Games Co., Ltd. (“Wuge”). Makesi WFOE had a series of contractual arrangement with Wuge that established a VIE structure. For accounting purposes, Makesi WFOE was the primary beneficiary of Wuge. Accordingly, under U.S. GAAP, GDC treated Wuge as the consolidated affiliated entity and has consolidated Yuanma’s financial results in Wuge’s financial statements prior to September 28, 2022. Wuge focused its business on research, development and application of Internet of Things (IoT) and electronic tokens Wuge digital door signs. On September 28, 2022, Makesi WFOE entered into a termination agreement with Wuge and the shareholders of Wuge to terminate the VIE agreements and to cancel the shares previously issued to the shareholders of Wuge, based on the average closing price of $0.237 per share of the Company during the 30 trading days immediately prior to the date of the termination agreement. As a result of such termination, the Company no longer treats Wuge as a consolidated affiliated entity or consolidates the financial results and balance sheet of Wuge in the Company’s consolidated financial statements under U.S. GAAP.
Prior to June 26, 2023, we had a subsidiary TMSR HK, which owns 100% equity interest in Makesi WFOE. Makesi WFOE had a series of contractual arrangement with Yuanma that established a VIE structure. For accounting purposes, Makesi WFOE was the primary beneficiary of Yuanma. Accordingly, under U.S. GAAP, GDC treated Yuanma as the consolidated affiliated entity and has consolidated Yuanma’s financial results in GDC’s financial statements prior to June 26, 2023. On June 26, 2023, GDC entered into a share purchase agreement with a buyer unaffiliated with the Company. Pursuant to the agreement, the Company agreed to sell and the buyer agreed to purchase all the issued and outstanding equity interest in TMSR HK. The purchase price for the transaction contemplated by the Agreement was $100,000. The sale of TMSR HK included the sale of Makesi WFOE and Yuanma. None of TMSR HK, Makesi WFOE or Yuanma had any assets, employees or operation. The sale of TMSR HK did not have any material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Prior to September 26, 2023, we also conducted business through Shanghai Highlight Media Co., Ltd. (“Highlight Media”). Highlight WFOE had a series of contractual arrangement with Highlight Media. For accounting purposes, Highlight WFOE was the primary beneficiary of Highlight Media. Accordingly, under U.S. GAAP, GDC treated Highlight Media as the consolidated affiliated entity and has consolidated Highlight Media’s financial results in GDC’s financial statements prior to September 26, 2023. Highlight Media was an integrated marketing service agency, focusing on enterprise brand management, crisis public relations, intelligent public opinion monitoring, media PR, financial and economic we-media operation, digital face application, large-scale exhibition services and other businesses. On September 26, 2023, Highlight WFOE entered into a termination agreement with Highlight Media and the shareholders of Highlight Media to terminate the VIE Agreements and sold the interest in the VIE Agreements for a purchase price of $100,000. As a result of such termination, the Company no longer treats Highlight Media as a consolidated affiliated entity or consolidates the financial results and balance sheet of Highlight Media in the Company’s consolidated financial statements under U.S. GAAP.
35
Recent Development
Change of Auditor
On October 9, 2023, the Company notified its independent registered public accounting firm, Enrome LLP, its decision to dismiss Enrome LLP as the Company’s auditor. On October 12, 2023, the Audit Committee and the Board of Directors of the Company approved the appointment of HTL International, LLC as its new independent registered public accounting firm to audit the Company’s financial statements.
Investment in SH Xianzhui
On August 10, 2023, Highlight WFOE, Beijing Hehe Property Management Co., Ltd. (“Beijing Hehe”), and a third party, established SH Xianzhui under the laws of the People’s Republic of China for social media marketing. Highlight WFOE owns 60% of the equity interest of SH Xianzhui, Beijing Hehe owns 20% of the equity interest of SH Xianzhui and the third party owns the remaining 20% of the equity interest of SH Xianzhui.
On October 27, 2023, the Company entered into an equity purchase agreement with Highlight WFOE and Beijing Hehe, which was amended on November 10, 2023 (such equity purchase agreement, as amended, the “Agreement” for purpose of this section “Investment in SH Xianzhui”), pursuant to which the Highlight WFOE agreed to purchase 13.3333% equity interest in SH Xianzhui from Beijing Hehe and the Company agreed to issue 400,000 shares of common stock of the Company, valued at $2.7820 per share, the average closing bid price of the common stock of GDC as of the five trading days immediately preceding the date of the Agreement, to Beijing Hehe or its assigns. The closing of the transaction shall take place within thirty (30) days from the execution of the Agreement. The Agreement is effective for thirty (30) days from the date of the Agreement, which can be extended for additional thirty (30) days upon all parties’ written agreement. The Company or Highlight WFOE may terminate the Agreement at any time with a three (3) day advance written notice to Beijing Hehe.
November 2023 Registered Direct Offering
On November 1, 2023, the Company entered into a placement agency agreement (the “Placement Agency Agreement”), with Univest Securities, LLC (the “Placement Agent” or “Univest”). Pursuant to the Placement Agency Agreement, the Placement Agent agrees to use its reasonable best efforts to sell the Company’s common stock (the “Common Stock”) in a registered direct offering (the “Offering”). The Placement Agent has no obligation to buy any of the securities from us or to arrange for the purchase or sale of any specific number or dollar amount of securities.
In the Offering, (i) an aggregate of 1,436,253 shares of common stock (the “Common Shares”) of the Company, par value $0.0001 per share, (ii) pre-funded warrants to purchase up to an aggregate of 1,876,103 shares of common stock (the “Pre-Funded Warrants”, and the common stock underlying such warrants, the “Pre-Funded Warrant Shares”), and (iii) registered warrants to purchase up to an aggregate of 3,312,356 shares of common stock (the “Registered Warrants”, and the common stock underlying such warrants, the “Registered Warrant Shares”) are sold to certain purchasers (the “Purchasers”), pursuant to a securities purchase agreement, dated October 31, 2023 (the “Securities Purchase Agreement”). The purchase price of each Common Share is $3.019. The purchase price of each Pre-funded Warrant is $3.018, which equals the price per Common Share being sold in this Offering, minus $0.001. The Pre-funded Warrants will be exercisable immediately after issuance and will expire five (5) years from the date of issuance. The Registered Warrants will be exercisable immediately and will expire five (5) years from the date of issuance.
36
The Offering is being made pursuant to a shelf registration statement (No. 333-254366) on Form S-3, which was declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 26, 2021, and related prospectus supplement.
The net proceeds from the Offering, after deducting placement agent discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by the Company, are approximately $9.05 million (assuming the Registered Warrants are not exercised). The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering for working capital and general corporate purposes.
Pursuant to the Placement Agency Agreement, the Company has agreed to pay the Placement Agent a total cash fee equal to 7.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds received in the Offering. The Company also agreed to reimburse the Placement Agent certain out-of-pocket accountable expenses incurred in this Offering up to $150,000.
In concurrent with the Offering, on November 1, 2023, the Company entered into certain warrant exchange agreements (the “Warrant Exchange Agreements”) with certain holders of warrants issued by the Company on May 16, 2023 in a private placement (the “Existing Warrants”), to purchase up to 1,154,519 shares of the Company’s Common Stock (the “Holders”). Pursuant to the Warrant Exchange Agreements, the Holders shall surrender the Existing Warrants, and the Company shall cancel the Existing Warrants and shall issue to Holders pre-funded warrants to purchase up to 577,260 shares of the Company’s Common Stock (the “Exchange Warrants”). The Exchange Warrants were issued to Holders on November 3, 2023 and the warrant exchange closed on the same day.
On November 17, 2023, the Company entered into an amendment to the Securities Purchase Agreement with the Purchasers, pursuant to which Exhibit B to the Securities Purchase Agreement (form of Registered Warrants) was deleted and replaced with an amended and restated the Form of Registered Warrant, to remove Section 2(b) Adjustment Upon Issuance of Common Stock and Section 2(e) Other Events.
The Registered Warrants that were issued to Purchasers under the Securities Purchase Agreement were returned to and cancelled by the Company on November 17, 2023. Concurrently, the Company issued amended and restated Registered Warrants to each Purchaser.
Key Factors that Affect Operating Results
Competition
E-commerce and live streaming is a competitive industry. Our competition varies and includes content creators on TikTok and other social media platform. Each of these competitors competes with us based on quality of content, activeness and responsiveness on the social placement, product selection, product quality, customer service, price, store format, location, or a combination of these factors. Some of these competitors may have been in business longer, may have more experience, or may have greater financial or marketing resources than us. As competition intensifies, our results of operations may be negatively impacted through a loss of sales and decrease in market share.
Retention of Key Management Team Members
Our management team comprises executives with extensive experience in technology and content creation. The management team has led us to take leaps in deploying AI technology in live-steaming, e-commerce, gaming and other sectors. The loss of any of our key executive team member might affect our business and our result of operation.
Our Ability to Grow Market Presence and Penetrate New Markets
We are still in an early development stage. We intend to expand our presence on social media to increase the market presence. If we cannot grow market presence and penetrate new markets in an effective and cost-efficient way, our results of operation will be negatively impacted.
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Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic did not have a material impact on our business or results of operation during the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022. However, the extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic may negatively impact the general economy and our business is highly uncertain and cannot be accurately predicted. These uncertainties may impede our ability to conduct our operations and could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations, and as a result could adversely affect our stock price and create more volatility.
Results of Operations
Three Months Ended September 30, 2023 vs. September 30, 2022
| Percentage | ||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Change | Change | |||||||||||||
| Revenues | ||||||||||||||||
| Enterprise brand management | - | - | - | N/A | % | |||||||||||
| Software copyright | - | - | - | N/A | % | |||||||||||
| Total revenues | - | - | - | N/A | % | |||||||||||
| Cost of Revenues | ||||||||||||||||
| Enterprise brand management service | - | - | - | N/A | % | |||||||||||
| Software copyright | - | - | - | N/A | % | |||||||||||
| Total cost of revenues | - | - | - | N/A | % | |||||||||||
| Gross profit | - | - | - | N/A | % | |||||||||||
| Operating expenses | 3,667,011 | 64,041 | 3,602,970 | 5,626.0 | % | |||||||||||
| Loss from operations | (3,667,011 | ) | (64,041 | ) | (3,602,970 | ) | 5,626.0 | % | ||||||||
| Other income, net | 46,839 | - | 46,839 | 100.0 | % | |||||||||||
| Loss before income tax from continuing operations | (3,620,172 | ) | (64,041 | ) | (3,556,131 | ) | 5,552.9 | % | ||||||||
| Provision for income taxes | - | - | - | N/A | % | |||||||||||
| Loss from continuing operations | (3,620,172 | ) | (64,041 | ) | (3,556,131 | ) | 5,552.9 | % | ||||||||
| Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest | (102,485 | ) | - | (102,485 | ) | (100.0 | )% | |||||||||
| Loss from continuing operations attributable to GD Culture Group Limited | (3,517,687 | ) | (64,041 | ) | (3,453,646 | ) | 5,392.9 | % | ||||||||
| Discontinued operations: | ||||||||||||||||
| Loss from discontinued operations | (10,358 | ) | - | (10,358 | ) | (100.0 | )% | |||||||||
| Loss on disposal, net of taxes | (230 | ) | (4,027,930 | ) | 4,027,700 | (100.0 | )% | |||||||||
| Net Loss | (3,528,275 | ) | (4,091,971 | ) | 563,696 | (13.8 | )% | |||||||||
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Operating Expenses
The Company’s operating expenses include selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses, and recovery of doubtful accounts.
SG&A expenses increased by approximately $3.6 million from approximately $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2022 to approximately $3.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The increase was mainly due to the combined impact of (i) the reduction of impairment of prepayments, (ii) increase in professional service fees incurred for industry research and analysis and daily operation management, (iii) the expansion of our administrative associated personnel cost, and (iv) increase in operating and lease expenses for offices.
Other Income, Net
The Company’s other income increased by approximately $47 thousand during the three months ended September 30, 2023, compared to nil for the three months ended September 30, 2022. The increase was due to the accrued interest for the investment in convertible notes.
Loss from Continuing Operations
As a result of the foregoing, loss from continuing operations for the three months ended September 30, 2023 was approximately $3.6 million, an increase of approximately 5552.9%, from approximately loss from continuing operations of $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2022.
Net Loss
The Company’s net loss decreased by approximately $0.6 million, or 13.8%, to approximately $3.5 million net loss for the three months ended September 30, 2023, from approximately $4.1 million net loss for the same period in 2022. The decrease was mainly due to the combined impact of (i) the reduction of impairment of prepayments, (ii) increase in professional service fees incurred for industry research and analysis and daily operation management, (iii) the expansion of our administrative associated personnel cost, (iv) increase in operating and lease expenses for offices the reduction of impairment of prepayments, and (v) loss on disposal of Wuge in 2022.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 vs. September 30, 2022
| Percentage | ||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Change | Change | |||||||||||||
| Revenues | ||||||||||||||||
| Enterprise brand management | - | - | - | N/A | % | |||||||||||
| Software copyright | 150,000 | - | 150,000 | 100.0 | % | |||||||||||
| Total revenues | 150,000 | - | 150,000 | 100.0 | % | |||||||||||
| Cost of Revenues | ||||||||||||||||
| Enterprise brand management service | - | - | - | N/A% | ||||||||||||
| Software copyright | - | - | - | N/A% | ||||||||||||
| Total cost of revenues | - | - | - | N/A% | ||||||||||||
| Gross profit | 150,000 | - | 150,000 | 100.0 | % | |||||||||||
| Operating expenses | 3,942,947 | 19,749,408 | (15,806,461 | ) | (80.0 | )% | ||||||||||
| Loss from operations | (3,792,947 | ) | (19,749,408 | ) | 15,956,461 | (80.8 | )% | |||||||||
| Other income, net | 147,018 | - | 147,018 | 100.0 | % | |||||||||||
| Loss before income tax from continuing operations | (3,645,929 | ) | (19,749,408 | ) | 16,103,479 | (81.5 | )% | |||||||||
| Provision for income taxes | - | - | - | N/A% | ||||||||||||
| Loss from continuing operations | (3,645,929 | ) | (19,749,408 | ) | 16,103,479 | (81.5 | )% | |||||||||
| Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest | (102,485 | ) | - | (102,485 | ) | (100.0 | )% | |||||||||
| Loss from continuing operations attributable to GD Culture Group Limited | (3,543,444 | ) | (19,749,408 | ) | 16,205,964 | (82.1 | )% | |||||||||
| Discontinued operations: | ||||||||||||||||
| Loss from discontinued operations | (61,408 | ) | 303,089 | (364,497 | ) | (120.3 | )% | |||||||||
| Loss on disposal, net of taxes | (230 | ) | (4,027,930 | ) | 4,027,700 | (100.0 | )% | |||||||||
| Net Loss | (3,605,082 | ) | (23,474,249 | ) | 19,869,167 | (84.6 | )% | |||||||||
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Revenues
The Company’s revenue consists of software copyright. Total revenues increased by $0.2 million, compared to nil for the nine months ended September 30, 2022. The increase was mainly due to the start of operation of AI Catalysis.
Gross Profit
The Company’s gross profit increased by $0.2 million, during the nine months ended September 30, 2023, compared to nil for the nine months ended September 30, 2022. The increase was due to the start of operation of AI Catalysis.
Operating Expenses
The Company’s operating expenses include selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses, and recovery of doubtful accounts.
SG&A expenses decreased by approximately $15.8 million from approximately $19.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2022 to approximately $3.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease was mainly due to the combined impact of (i) the reduction of impairment of prepayments, (ii) increase in professional service fees incurred for industry research and analysis and daily operation management, (iii) the expansion of our administrative associated personnel cost, (iv) increase in operating and lease expenses for offices, and (v) the reduction of impairment of goodwill.
Other Income, Net
The Company’s other income increased by approximately $147 thousand during the nine months ended September 30, 2023, compared to nil for the nine months ended September 30, 2022. The increase was due to the accrued interest for the investment in convertible notes.
Loss from Continuing Operations
As a result of the foregoing, loss from continuing operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 was approximately $3.6 million, a decrease of approximately $16.1 million, or approximately 81.5%, from approximately loss from operations of $19.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2022. The decrease was mainly due to the combined impact of (i) the reduction of impairment of prepayments, (ii) increase in professional service fees incurred for industry research and analysis and daily operation management, (iii) the expansion of our administrative associated personnel cost, (iv) increase in operating and lease expenses for offices, and (v) the reduction of impairment of goodwill.
Net Loss
The Company’s net loss decreased by approximately $19.9 million, or 84.6%, to approximately $3.6 million net loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, from approximately $23.5 million net loss for the same period in 2022. The decrease was mainly due to the combined impact of (i) the reduction of impairment of prepayments, (ii) increase in professional service fees incurred for industry research and analysis and daily operation management, (iii) the expansion of our administrative associated personnel cost, (iv) increase in operating and lease expenses for offices, and (v) the reduction of impairment of goodwill.
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Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
The preparation of the unaudited condensed financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires our management to make assumptions, estimates and judgments that affect the amounts reported, including the notes thereto, and related disclosures of commitments and contingencies, if any. We have identified certain accounting policies that are significant to the preparation of our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements. These accounting policies are important for an understanding of our financial condition and results of operation. Critical accounting policies are those that are most important to the portrayal of our financial conditions and results of operations and require management’s difficult, subjective, or complex judgment, often as a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain and may change in subsequent periods. Certain accounting estimates are particularly sensitive because of their significance to financial statements and because of the possibility that future events affecting the estimate may differ significantly from management’s current judgments. We believe the following critical accounting policies involve the most significant estimates and judgments used in the preparation of our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
Cash and cash equivalents
The Company considers certain short-term, highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less, when purchased, to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents primarily represent bank deposits and fixed deposits with maturities of less than three months.
Investments
The Company purchases certain liquid short term investments such as money market funds and or other short-term debt securities marketed by large financial institutions. These investments are not insured against loss of principal. These investments are accounted for as financial instruments that are marked to fair market value at the end of each reporting period. As result of their short maturities, and limited risk profile, at times, their amortized carrying cost may be the best approximation their fair value.
Accounts receivable, net
Accounts receivable include trade accounts due from customers. An allowance for doubtful accounts may be established and recorded based on management’s assessment of potential losses based on the credit history and relationships with the customers. Management reviews its receivables on a regular basis to determine if the bad debt allowance is adequate, and adjusts the allowance when necessary. Delinquent account balances are written-off against allowance for doubtful accounts after management has determined that the likelihood of collection is not probable.
Prepayments
Prepayments are funds deposited or advanced to outside vendors for future inventory purchases. As a standard practice in China, many of the Company’s vendors require a certain amount to be deposited with them as a guarantee that the Company will complete its purchases on a timely basis. This amount is refundable and bears no interest. The Company has legally binding contracts with its vendors, which require any outstanding prepayments to be returned to the Company when the contract ends.
Fair value measurement
The accounting standard regarding fair value of financial instruments and related fair value measurements defines financial instruments and requires disclosure of the fair value of financial instruments held by us. The Company considers the carrying amount of cash, notes receivable, accounts receivable, other receivables, prepayments, accounts payable, other payables and accrued liabilities, customer deposits, short term loans and taxes payable to approximate their fair values because of their short term nature.
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The accounting standards define fair value, establish a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosures of fair value measurement and enhance disclosure requirements for fair value measures. The three levels are defined as follow:
| ● | Level 1 inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets. |
| ● | Level 2 inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the assets or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instruments. |
| ● | Level 3 inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value. |
Financial instruments included in current assets and current liabilities are reported in the consolidated balance sheets at face value or cost, which approximate fair value because of the short period of time between the origination of such instruments and their expected realization and their current market rates of interest.
Revenue recognition
On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-09 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASC 606) using the modified retrospective method for contracts that were not completed as of January 1, 2018. This did not result in an adjustment to retained earnings upon adoption of this new guidance as the Company’s revenue, other than warranty revenues, was recognized based on the amount of consideration we expect to receive in exchange for satisfying the performance obligations. However, the impact of the Company’s warranty revenue was not material as of the date of adoption, and as a result, did not result in an adjustment.
The core principle underlying the revenue recognition ASU is that the Company will recognize revenue to represent the transfer of goods and services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled in such exchange. This will require the Company to identify contractual performance obligations and determine whether revenue should be recognized at a point in time or over time, based on when control of goods and services transfers to a customer. The Company’s revenue streams are primarily recognized at a point in time.
The ASU requires the use of a new five-step model to recognize revenue from customer contracts. The five-step model requires that the Company (i) identify the contract with the customer, (ii) identify the performance obligations in the contract, (iii) determine the transaction price, including variable consideration to the extent that it is probable that a significant future reversal will not occur, (iv) allocate the transaction price to the respective performance obligations in the contract, and (v) recognize revenue when (or as) the Company satisfies the performance obligation. The application of the five-step model to the revenue streams compared to the prior guidance did not result in significant changes in the way the Company records its revenue. Upon adoption, the Company evaluated its revenue recognition policy for all revenue streams within the scope of the ASU under previous standards and using the five-step model under the new guidance and confirmed that there were no differences in the pattern of revenue recognition except its warranty revenues.
An entity will also be required to determine if it controls the goods or services prior to the transfer to the customer in order to determine if it should account for the arrangement as a principal or agent. Principal arrangements, where the entity controls the goods or services provided, will result in the recognition of the gross amount of consideration expected in the exchange. Agent arrangements, where the entity simply arranges but does not control the goods or services being transferred to the customer, will result in the recognition of the net amount the entity is entitled to retain in the exchange.
Revenues from digital doors signs are recognized at a point in time when legal title and control over the sign is transferred to the customer. Management has determined that for the sales of digital door signs there is a single performance obligation that is met when the aforementioned control is transferred. Typically, customers make payment for the product in advance; the Company will record the payment as contract liabilities under the liability account customer deposits until the Company delivers the product by transferring control. Such revenues are recognized at a point in time after all performance obligations are satisfied under the new five-step model.
Payments received prior to the relevant criteria for revenue recognition are met, are recorded as customer deposits.
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Gross versus Net Revenue Reporting
Starting from July 2016, in the normal course of the Company’s trading of industrial waste materials business, the Company directly purchases the processed industrial waste materials from the Company’s suppliers under the Company’s specifications and drop ships the materials directly to the Company’s customers. The Company would inspect the materials at its customers’ site, during which inspection it temporarily assumes legal title to the materials, and after which inspection legal title is transferred to its customers. In these situations, the Company generally collects the sales proceeds directly from the Company’s customers and pay for the inventory purchases to the Company’s suppliers separately. The determination of whether revenues should be reported on a gross or net basis is based on the Company’s assessment of whether it is the principal or an agent in the transaction. In determining whether the Company is the principal or an agent, the Company follows the new accounting guidance for principal-agent considerations. Since the Company is the primary obligor and is responsible for (i) fulfilling the processed industrial waste materials delivery, (ii) controlling the inventory by temporarily assume legal title to the materials after inspecting the products from our vendors before passing the materials to our customers, and (iii) bearing the back-end risk of inventory loss with respect to any product return from the Company’s customers, the Company has concluded that it is the principal in these arrangements, and therefore report revenues and cost of revenues on a gross basis.
Recently Issue Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The amendments in this Update affect any entity that is required to apply the provisions of Topic 220, Income Statement – Reporting Comprehensive Income, and has items of other comprehensive income for which the related tax effects are presented in other comprehensive income as required by GAAP. The amendments in this Update are effective for all entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption of the amendments in this Update is permitted, including adoption in any interim period, (1) for public business entities for reporting periods for which financial statements have not yet been issued and (2) for all other entities for reporting periods for which financial statements have not yet been made available for issuance. The amendments in this Update should be applied either in the period of adoption or retrospectively to each period (or periods) in which the effect of the change in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is recognized. We do not believe the adoption of this ASU would have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.
We do not believe other recently issued but not yet effective accounting standards, if currently adopted, would have a material effect on our consolidated balance sheets, statements of income and comprehensive income and statements of cash flows.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The Company has funded working capital and other capital requirements primarily by equity contributions, loans from shareholders, cash flow from operations, short term bank loans, loans from third parties. Cash is required to repay debts and pay salaries, office expenses, income taxes and other operating expenses. As of September 30, 2023, our net working capital was approximately $6.3 million and is expected to continue to generate cash flow by operations from the acquisitions of new companies in the twelve months period.
We believe that current levels of cash and cash flows from operations will be sufficient to meet its anticipated cash needs for at least the next twelve months from the date the consolidated financial statements to be issued. However, it may need additional cash resources in the future if it experiences changed business conditions or other developments, and may also need additional cash resources in the future if it wishes to pursue opportunities for investment, acquisition, strategic cooperation or other similar actions. If it is determined that the cash requirements exceed the Company’s amounts of cash and cash equivalents on hand, the Company may seek to issue debt or equity securities or obtain additional credit facility.
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The following summarizes the key components of the Company’s cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022.
| For the Nine Months Ended September 30, |
||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Net cash used in by operating activities | $ | (6,465,350 | ) | $ | (966,745 | ) | ||
| Net cash used in investing activities | (5,009,617 | ) | (12,275,607 | ) | ||||
| Net cash provided by financing activities | 12,733,759 | - | ||||||
| Effect of exchange rate change on cash | (752 | ) | (1,095,699 | ) | ||||
| Net change in cash | $ | 1,258,040 | $ | (14,338,051 | ) | |||
As of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company had cash in the amount of $1.6 million and $0.4 million, respectively. As of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, $1.1 million and $0.2 million and were deposited with various financial institutions located in the PRC, respectively. As of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, $0.5 million and $0.2 million were deposited with one financial institution located in the United States, respectively.
Operating activities
Net cash used in operating activities was approximately $6.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, as compared to approximately $1.0 million net cash used in operating activities for the September 30, 2022. Net cash used in operating activities was mainly due to the increase of approximately $4.6 million of prepayments, the increase of $0.1 million of prepaid expense-related party, the decrease of approximately $0.2 million of other payables-related parties, and the increase of approximately $0.1 million of customer deposits.
Investing activities
Net cash used in investing activities was $5.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, as compared to approximately $12.3 million net cash used in investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2022. Net cash used in investing activities was mainly due to the purchase of intangible assets with the amount of $2.5 million and investment in convertible notes of Liquid Marketplace Corp and DigiTrax Entertainment Inc. with the amount of $2.5 million.
Financing activities
Net cash provided by financing activities was $12.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, as compared to nil net cash used in financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2022. Net cash provided by financing activities was mainly due to the increase of approximately $8.6 million of issuance of common stock and contribution by noncontrolling shareholder with the amount of $4.1 million.
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ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Credit Risk
Credit risk is one of the most significant risks for the Company’s business.
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to significant concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and accounts receivable. Cash held at major financial institutions located in the PRC are not insured by the government. While we believe that these financial institutions are of high credit quality, it also continually monitors their credit worthiness.
Accounts receivable are typically unsecured and derived from revenue earned from customers, thereby exposed to credit risk. Credit risk is controlled by the application of credit approvals, limits and monitoring procedures. The Company manages credit risk through in-house research and analysis of the Chinese economy and the underlying obligors and transaction structures. To minimize credit risk, the Company normally require prepayment from the customers prior to begin production or delivery products. The Company identifies credit risk collectively based on industry, geography and customer type. This information is monitored regularly by management.
In measuring the credit risk of our sales to our customers, the Company mainly reflects the “probability of default” by the customer on its contractual obligations and considers the current financial position of the customer and the exposures to the customer and its likely future development.
Liquidity Risk
The Company is also exposed to liquidity risk which is risk that it is unable to provide sufficient capital resources and liquidity to meet its commitments and business needs. Liquidity risk is controlled by the application of financial position analysis and monitoring procedures. When necessary, the Company will turn to other financial institutions and the owners to obtain short-term funding to meet the liquidity shortage.
Inflation Risk
The Company is also exposed to inflation risk. Inflationary factors, such as increases in raw material and overhead costs, could impair our operating results. Although we do not believe that inflation has had a material impact on our financial position or results of operations to date, a high rate of inflation in the future may have an adverse effect on our ability to maintain current levels of gross margin and operating expenses as a percentage of sales revenue if the selling prices of our products do not increase with such increased costs.
Foreign Currency Risk
A majority of the Company’s operating activities and a significant portion of the Company’s assets and liabilities are denominated in RMB, which is not freely convertible into foreign currencies. All foreign exchange transactions take place either through the Peoples’ Bank of China (“PBOC”) or other authorized financial institutions at exchange rates quoted by PBOC. Approval of foreign currency payments by the PBOC or other regulatory institutions requires submitting a payment application form together with suppliers’ invoices and signed contracts. The value of RMB is subject to changes in central government policies and to international economic and political developments affecting supply and demand in the China Foreign Exchange Trading System market.
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ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officers, President and Chief Financial Officer (the “Certifying Officers”), we carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act. Based on the foregoing, our Certifying Officers concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of the end of the period covered by this Report.
Disclosure controls and procedures are controls and other procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including our Certifying Officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) during the most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
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PART II — OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
None.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
Investing in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully consider the information included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and the risk factors discussed in Part I, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 before making an investment in our common stock. Our business, financial condition, results of operations, or prospects could be materially and adversely affected if any of these risks occurs, and as a result, the market price of our common stock could decline and you could lose all or part of your investment. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results. There are no material changes to the risk factors described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022. This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q also contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. See “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.” Our actual results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including those set forth below.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
On August 10, 2023, Highlight WFOE, Beijing Hehe, and a third party, established Sha SH Xianzhui under the laws of the People’s Republic of China for social media marketing. Highlight WFOE owns 60% of the equity interest of SH Xianzhui, Beijing Hehe owns 20% of the equity interest of the Joint Venture and the third party owns the remaining 20% of the equity interest of the Joint Venture.
On October 27, 2023, the Company entered into an equity purchase agreement with Highlight WFOE and Beijing Hehe, which was amended on November 10, 2023 (such equity purchase agreement, as amended, the “Agreement” for purpose of this section), pursuant to which the Highlight WFOE agreed to purchase 13.3333% equity interest in SH Xianzhui from Beijing Hehe and the Company agreed to issue 400,000 shares of common stock of the Company, valued at $2.7820 per share, the average closing bid price of the common stock of GDC as of the five trading days immediately preceding the date of the Agreement, to Beijing Hehe or its assigns. The closing of the transaction shall take place within thirty (30) days from the execution of the Agreement. The Agreement is effective for thirty (30) days from the date of the Agreement, which can be extended for additional thirty (30) days upon all parties’ written agreement. The Company or Highlight WFOE may terminate the Agreement at any time with a three (3) day advance written notice to Beijing Hehe.
As of the date of this report, the transaction has not been completed and such shares have not been issued.
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
None.
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ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
The following exhibits are filed as part of, or incorporated by reference into, this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
| Exhibit Number |
Description | |
| 31.1 | Certification of the Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a). | |
| 31.2 | Certification of the Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a). | |
| 32.1 | Certification of the Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) and 18 U.S.C. 1350. | |
| 32.2 | Certification of the Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) and 18 U.S.C. 1350. | |
| 101.INS | Inline XBRL Instance Document. | |
| 101.SCH | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document. | |
| 101.CAL | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document. | |
| 101.DEF | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document. | |
| 101.LAB | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document. | |
| 101.PRE | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document. | |
| 104 | Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101). |
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
| GD CULTURE GROUP LIMITED | ||
| Date: November 20, 2023 | By: | /s/ Xiaojian Wang |
| Name: | Xiaojian Wang | |
| Title: | Chief Executive Officer, President and | |
| Chairman of the Board | ||
| Date: November 20, 2023 | By: | /s/ Zihao Zhao |
| Name: | Zihao Zhao | |
| Title: | Chief Financial Officer and Secretary | |
| (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) | ||
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