Arena Group Holdings, Inc. 10-Q

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-Q ☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2024 ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the transition period from __________ to __________ Commission file number 1-12471 THE ARENA GROUP HOLDINGS, INC. (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) Delaware 68-0232575 (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) 200 Vesey Street , 24 th Floor New York , New York 10281 (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code) (212) 321-5002 (Registrant’s telephone number, including area code) Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: Title of each class Trading Symbol(s) Name of each exchange on which registered Common Stock, par value $0.01 AREN NYSE American Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐ Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data 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). Yes ☒ No ☐ 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 ☐ Non-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 ☐ or No ☒ As of November 14, 2024, the Registrant had 47,465,749 shares of common stock outstanding. TABLE OF CONTENTS Page Number PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION 4 Item 1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements 4 Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 33 Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 46 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 50 Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities 50 Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 50 Item 5. Other Information 50 Item 6. Exhibits 51 SIGNATURES 53 2 Forward-Looking Statements This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (this “Quarterly Report”) of The Arena Group Holdings, Inc. (the “Company,” “we,” “our,” and “us”) contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and include, without limitation, statements concerning our business strategy, future revenues, market growth, capital requirements, product introductions , expansion plans and the adequacy of our funding and our ability to alleviate the conditions that raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern (as described in Note 1 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part 1, Item 1 herein). Other statements contained in this Quarterly Report that are not historical facts are also forward-looking statements. We have tried, wherever possible, to identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates,” and other stylistic variants denoting forward-looking statements. We caution investors that any forward-looking statements presented in this Quarterly Report, or that we may make orally or in writing from time to time, are based on information currently available, as well as our beliefs and assumptions. The actual outcome related to forward-looking statements will be affected by known and unknown risks, trends, uncertainties, and factors that are beyond our control or ability to predict. Although we believe that our assumptions are reasonable, they are not guarantees of future performance, and some will inevitably prove to be incorrect. As a result, our actual future results can be expected to differ from our expectations, and those differences may be material. Accordingly, investors should use caution in relying on forward-looking statements, which are based only on known results and trends at the time they are made, to anticipate future results or trends. We detail other risks in our public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors , in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on April 1, 2024 and in Part II, Item 1A, Risk Factors , in this Quarterly Report. The discussion in this Quarterly Report should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report and our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in Part II, Item 8 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. This Quarterly Report and all subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or any person acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to in this section. We do not undertake any obligation to release publicly any revisions to our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this Quarterly Report except as may be required by law. 3 PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION ITEM 1. FINANCIAL INFORMATION THE ARENA GROUP HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Index to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements PAGE Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets – September 30, 2024 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2023 5 Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) - Three Months and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 6 Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Deficiency (Unaudited) - Three Months and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 7 Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) - Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 9 Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 10 4 THE ARENA GROUP HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS September 30, 2024 (unaudited) December 31, 2023 ($ in thousands, except share data) Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 5,773 $ 9,284 Accounts receivable, net 25,858 31,676 Prepayments and other current assets 5,675 5,791 Current assets from discontinued operations 528 43,648 Total current assets 37,834 90,399 Property and equipment, net 196 328 Operating lease right-of-use assets 2,421 176 Platform development, net 7,203 8,723 Acquired and other intangible assets, net 23,640 27,457 Other long-term assets 356 1,003 Goodwill 42,575 42,575 Noncurrent assets from discontinued operations - 18,217 Total assets $ 114,225 $ 188,878 Liabilities, mezzanine equity and stockholders’ deficiency Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 4,192 $ 7,803 Accrued expenses and other 23,386 28,903 Line of credit - 19,609 Unearned revenue 7,574 16,938 Subscription refund liability 96 46 Operating lease liabilities 247 358 Contingent consideration - 1,571 Liquidated damages payable 3,153 2,924 Bridge notes 8,000 7,887 Debt 102,404 102,309 Current liabilities from discontinued operations 98,378 47,673 Total current liabilities 247,430 236,021 Unearned revenue, net of current portion 357 542 Operating lease liabilities, net of current portion 1,911 - Other long-term liabilities 46 406 Deferred tax liabilities 692 599 Simplify loan 1,100 - Noncurrent liabilities from discontinued operations - 10,137 Total liabilities 251,536 247,705 Commitments and contingencies (Note 19) - - Mezzanine equity: Series G redeemable and convertible preferred stock, $ 0.01 par value, $ 1,000 per share liquidation value and 1,800 shares designated; aggregate liquidation value: $ 168 ; Series G shares issued and outstanding: 168 ; common shares issuable upon conversion: 8,582 at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 168 168 Stockholders’ deficiency: Common stock, $ 0.01 par value, authorized 1,000,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding: 47,448,047 and 23,836,706 shares at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively 474 237 Common stock to be issued - - Additional paid-in capital 348,289 319,421 Accumulated deficit ( 486,242 ) ( 378,653 ) Total stockholders’ deficiency ( 137,479 ) ( 58,995 ) Total liabilities, mezzanine equity and stockholders’ deficiency $ 114,225 $ 188,878 See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements 5 THE ARENA GROUP HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (unaudited) 2024 2023 2024 2023 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 ($ in thousands, except share data) Revenue $ 33,555 $ 36,996 $ 89,679 $ 99,486 Cost of revenue (includes amortization of platform development and developed technology for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 of $ 1,474 and $ 2,191 , respectively and for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 of $ 4,530 and $ 6,883 , respectively) 16,562 23,046 53,035 61,991 Gross profit 16,993 13,950 36,644 37,495 Operating expenses Selling and marketing 2,011 6,422 10,326 19,173 General and administrative 6,023 10,940 24,790 35,516 Depreciation and amortization 905 1,055 2,805 3,216 Loss on impairment of assets - - 1,198 119 Total operating expenses 8,939 18,417 39,119 58,024 Income (loss) from operations 8,054 ( 4,467 ) ( 2,475 ) ( 20,529 ) Other expense Change in fair value of contingent consideration - ( 60 ) ( 313 ) ( 469 ) Interest expense ( 3,159 ) ( 4,042 ) ( 11,747 ) ( 13,225 ) Liquidated damages ( 77 ) ( 151 ) ( 229 ) ( 455 ) Total other expenses ( 3,236 ) ( 4,253 ) ( 12,289 ) ( 14,149 ) Income (loss) before income taxes 4,818 ( 8,720 ) ( 14,764 ) ( 34,678 ) Income tax provision ( 40 ) ( 52 ) ( 116 ) ( 145 ) Income (loss) from continuing operations 4,778 ( 8,772 ) ( 14,880 ) ( 34,823 ) Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax ( 822 ) ( 2,394 ) ( 92,709 ) ( 15,204 ) Net income (loss) $ 3,956 $ ( 11,166 ) $ ( 107,589 ) $ ( 50,027 ) Basic and diluted net income (loss) per common share Continuing operations $ 0.13 $ ( 0.37 ) $ ( 0.48 ) $ ( 1.61 ) Discontinued operations ( 0.02 ) ( 0.10 ) ( 2.96 ) ( 0.70 ) Basic and diluted net income (loss) per common share $ 0.11 $ ( 0.47 ) $ ( 3.44 ) $ ( 2.31 ) Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – basic and diluted 37,610,058 23,445,675 31,291,641 21,567,166 See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. 6 THE ARENA GROUP HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIENCY (unaudited) Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 Shares Par Value Shares Par Value Capital Deficit Deficiency Common Stock Common Stock to be Issued Additional Paid-in Accumulated Total Stockholders’ Shares Par Value Shares Par Value Capital Deficit Deficiency ($ in thousands, except share data) Balance at July 1, 2024 29,573,932 $ 295 2,701 $ - $ 332,702 $ ( 490,198 ) $ ( 157,201 ) Issuance of common stock pursuant to common stock purchase agreement in connection with exchange of debt 17,797,817 178 - - 14,822 - 15,000 Issuance of common stock in connection with private placement Issuance of common stock in connection with private placement, shares Issuance of common stock in connection with settlement of Series H convertible preferred stock Issuance of common stock in connection with settlement of Series H convertible preferred stock, shares Issuance of common stock in connection with the acquisition of Fexy Studios Issuance of common stock in connection with the acquisition of Fexy Studios, shares Issuance of common stock in connection with settlement of liquidated damages Issuance of common stock in connection with settlement of liquidated damages, shares Gain upon issuance of common stock in connection with settlement of liquidated damages Issuance of common stock in connection with the exercise of stock options Issuance of common stock in connection with the exercise of stock options, shares Issuance of common stock for restricted stock units 89,119 1 - - ( 1 ) - - Common stock withheld for taxes ( 12,821 ) - - - ( 11 ) - ( 11 ) Common stock withheld for taxes Common stock withheld for taxes, shares Repurchase of common stock for Fexy put option Repurchase of common stock for Fexy put option, shares Issuance of stock in connection with acquisitions Issuance of stock in connection with acquisitions, shares Costs incurred upon issuance of common stock in connection with registered direct offering Issuance of common stock in connection with registered direct offering Issuance of common stock in connection with registered direct offering, shares Reclassification to liability upon modification of common stock option Stock-based compensation - - - - 777 - 777 Net income - - - - - 3,956 3,956 Balance at September 30, 2024 47,448,047 $ 474 2,701 $ - $ 348,289 $ ( 486,242 ) $ ( 137,479 ) Common Stock Common Stock to be Issued Additional Paid-in Accumulated Total Stockholders’ Shares Par Value Shares Par Value Capital Deficit Deficiency ($ in thousands, except share data) Balance at January 1, 2024 23,836,706 $ 237 2,701 $ - $ 319,421 $ ( 378,653 ) $ ( 58,995 ) Issuance of common stock pursuant to common stock purchase agreement in connection with exchange of debt 17,797,817 178 - - 14,822 - 15,000 Issuance of common stock in connection with private placement 5,555,555 56 - - 11,944 - 12,000 Issuance of common stock for restricted stock units 836,259 9 - - ( 9 ) - - Common stock withheld for taxes ( 303,598 ) ( 3 ) - - ( 494 ) - ( 497 ) Repurchase of common stock for Fexy put option ( 274,692 ) ( 3 ) - - ( 376 ) - ( 379 ) Stock-based compensation - - - - 2,981 - 2,981 Net loss - - - - - ( 107,589 ) ( 107,589 ) Balance at September 30, 2024 47,448,047 $ 474 2,701 $ - $ 348,289 $ ( 486,242 ) $ ( 137,479 ) 7 THE ARENA GROUP HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIENCY (unaudited) Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 Common Stock Common Stock to be Issued Additional Paid-in Accumulated Total Stockholders’ Shares Par Value Shares Par Value Capital Deficit Deficiency ($ in thousands, except per share data) Balance at July 1, 2023 22,014,927 $ 219 41,283 $ - $ 297,522 $ ( 361,932 ) $ ( 64,191 ) Issuance of common stock in connection with settlement of Series H convertible preferred stock 1,774,128 18 - - 11,490 - 11,508 Issuance of common stock for restricted stock units 5,442 - - - - - - Issuance of stock in connection with acquisitions 28,979 - ( 28,979 ) - - - - Stock-based compensation - - - - 4,599 - 4,599 Net loss - - - - - ( 11,166 ) ( 11,166 ) Balance at September 30, 2023 23,823,476 $ 237 12,304 $ - $ 313,611 $ ( 373,098 ) $ ( 59,250 ) Common Stock Common Stock to be Issued Additional Paid-in Accumulated Total Stockholders’ Shares Par Value Shares Par Value Capital Deficit Deficiency ($ in thousands, except per share data) Balance at January 1, 2023 18,303,193 $ 182 41,283 $ - $ 270,743 $ ( 323,071 ) $ ( 52,146 ) Balance 18,303,193 $ 182 41,283 $ - $ 270,743 $ ( 323,071 ) $ ( 52,146 ) Issuance of common stock in connection with settlement of Series H convertible preferred stock 1,981,128 20 - - 12,988 - 13,008 Issuance of common stock in connection with the acquisition of Fexy Studios 274,692 3 - - 1,997 - 2,000 Issuance of common stock in connection with settlement of liquidated damages 47,252 - - - 369 - 369 Gain upon issuance of common stock in connection with settlement of liquidated damages - - - - 130 - 130 Issuance of common stock in connection with the exercise of stock options 795 - - - - - - Issuance of common stock for restricted stock units 425,901 4 - - ( 4 ) - - Common stock withheld for taxes ( 202,382 ) ( 2 ) - - ( 1,421 ) - ( 1,423 ) Issuance of common stock in connection with acquisition 28,979 - ( 28,979 ) - - - - Issuance of common stock in connection with registered direct offering 2,963,918 30 - - 11,114 - 11,144 Reclassification to liability upon modification of common stock option - - - - ( 68 ) - ( 68 ) Stock-based compensation - - - - 17,763 - 17,763 Net loss - - - - - ( 50,027 ) ( 50,027 ) Net income (loss) - - - - - ( 50,027 ) ( 50,027 ) Balance at September 30, 2023 23,823,476 $ 237 12,304 $ - $ 313,611 $ ( 373,098 ) $ ( 59,250 ) Balance 23,823,476 $ 237 12,304 $ - $ 313,611 $ ( 373,098 ) $ ( 59,250 ) See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. 8 THE ARENA GROUP HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (unaudited) 2024 2023 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 ($ in thousands) Cash flows from operating activities Net loss $ ( 107,589 ) $ ( 50,027 ) Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: Depreciation of property and equipment 186 276 Amortization of platform development and intangible assets 9,550 20,834 Amortization of debt discounts 626 2,178 Noncash and accrued interest 8,423 754 Loss on impairment of assets 40,589 119 Change in fair value of contingent consideration 313 469 Liquidated damages 229 455 Stock-based compensation 2,736 16,978 Deferred income taxes 93 109 Bad debt expense 1,269 217 Other ( 19 ) - Change in operating assets and liabilities net of effect of business combination: Accounts receivable, net 17,051 ( 4,213 ) Subscription acquisition costs 6,131 ( 1,631 ) Prepayments and other current assets 923 ( 2,465 ) Other long-term assets 647 ( 62 ) Accounts payable ( 4,171 ) ( 1,719 ) Accrued expenses and other 35,069 1,670 Unearned revenue ( 17,145 ) ( 146 ) Subscription refund liability 70 ( 95 ) Operating lease liabilities ( 445 ) ( 171 ) Contingent consideration ( 1,683 ) - Other long-term liabilities ( 360 ) ( 5,795 ) Net cash used in operating activities ( 7,507 ) ( 22,265 ) Cash flows from investing activities Purchases of property and equipment ( 54 ) - Capitalized platform development ( 2,765 ) ( 2,967 ) Payments for acquisition of business, net of cash acquired - ( 500 ) Net cash used in investing activities ( 2,819 ) ( 3,467 ) Cash flows from financing activities Proceeds from bridge notes - 5,703 Payment of Fexy put option ( 561 ) - (Repayments) proceeds under line of credit, net borrowing ( 20,027 ) 3,211 Proceeds from common stock private placement 12,000 - Proceeds from Simplify loan 16,100 - Proceeds from common stock registered direct offering - 11,500 Payments of issuance costs from common stock registered direct offering - ( 167 ) Payments of debt issuance costs - ( 100 ) Payment of deferred cash payments ( 200 ) ( 75 ) Payment of taxes from common stock withheld ( 497 ) ( 1,423 ) Net cash provided by financing activities 6,815 18,649 Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents ( 3,511 ) ( 7,083 ) Cash and cash equivalents – beginning of year 9,284 14,373 Cash and cash equivalents – end of period $ 5,773 $ 7,290 Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information Cash paid for interest $ 2,698 $ 10,835 Cash paid for income taxes 85 85 Noncash investing and financing activities Reclassification of stock-based compensation to platform development $ 245 $ 785 Issuance cost of registered direct offering recorded in accrued expenses and other - 189 Repurchase of common stock for Fexy put option 379 - Issuance of common stock pursuant to common stock purchase agreement in connection with exchange of debt 15,000 - Issuance of common stock in connection with settlement of liquidated damages - 499 Issuance of common stock upon conversion of Series H convertible preferred stock - 13,008 Issuance of common stock in connection with acquisition - 2,000 Deferred cash payments recorded in connection with acquisitions - 246 Assumptions of liabilities in connection with acquisitions - 1,246 Reclassification to liability upon common stock modification - 68 See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. 9 THE ARENA GROUP HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (unaudited) ($ in thousands, unless otherwise stated) 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of The Arena Group Holdings, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries (“The Arena Group” or the “Company”), after eliminating all significant intercompany balances and transactions. The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for complete audited financial statements. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements, which are included in The Arena Group’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on April 1, 2024. The condensed consolidated financial statements as of September 30, 2024 and 2023, and for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, are unaudited but, in management’s opinion, include all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the results of interim periods. All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. The year-end condensed consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2023, was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by GAAP. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the entire fiscal year. The Company’s business and operations are sensitive to general business and economic conditions in the United States and worldwide. These conditions include short-term and long-term interest rates, inflation, fluctuations in debt and equity capital markets and the general condition of the United States and world economy. A host of factors beyond the Company’s control could cause fluctuations in these conditions. Adverse developments in these general business and economic conditions could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and the results of its operations. In addition, the Company will compete with many companies that currently have extensive and well-funded projects, marketing and sales operations as well as extensive human capital. The Company may be unable to compete successfully against these companies. The Company’s industry is characterized by rapid changes in technology and market demands. As a result, the Company’s products, services, or expertise may become obsolete or unmarketable. The Company’s future success will depend on its ability to adapt to technological advances, anticipate customer and market demands, and enhance its current technology under development. Uncertainty in the global economy presents significant risks to the Company’s business. Increases in inflation, instability in the global banking system, geopolitical factors, including the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Israel and the responses thereto may have an adverse effect on the Company’s business. While the Company is closely monitoring the impact of the current macroeconomic conditions on all aspects of its business, the ultimate extent of the impact on its business remains highly uncertain and will depend on future developments and factors that continue to evolve. Most of these developments and factors are outside of the Company’s control and could exist for an extended period of time. As a result, the Company is subject to continuing risks and uncertainties. The Company operates in one reportable segment. 10 Going Concern The Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern, which contemplates the realization of assets and the liquidation of liabilities in the normal course of business. The Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might be necessary if it is unable to continue as a going concern. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company incurred a net loss from continuing operations of $ 14,880 , and as of September 30, 2024, had cash on hand of $ 5,773 and a working capital deficit of $ 209,596 . Management has evaluated the Company’s net loss from continuing operations and working capital deficit to determine if the significance of those conditions or events would limit its ability to meet its obligations when due, including under the Loan Documents and Simplify Loan (see Notes 10 and 12). In its evaluation, management determined that substantial doubt exists about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern for a one-year period following the financial statement issuance date due to the net loss from continued operations and working capital deficit. The Company’s financial results have improved in recent periods due to restructuring activities and implementation of a new operating structure. In addition, the Company plans to continue improving monthly financial performance through the reduction of costs and monthly cash requirements, maintain compliance with the terms of all outstanding debt agreements, and take actions to resolve current and potential future liabilities to alleviate the conditions that raise substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern, such as resolving pending litigation. However, there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to execute these plans. If the Company is unable to execute these plans, it could lead to selling assets and further reducing costs and cash requirements. Use of Estimates The preparation of the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported results of operations during the reporting period. Significant estimates include: allowance for credit losses; capitalization of platform development costs and associated useful lives; goodwill and other acquired intangible assets and associated useful lives; assumptions used in accruals for potential liabilities; revenue recognition and estimates of standalone selling price of performance obligations for revenue contracts with multiple performance obligations; stock-based compensation and the determination of the fair value; valuation allowances for deferred tax assets and uncertain tax positions; accounting for business combinations; and assumptions used to calculate contingent liabilities. These estimates are based on information available as of the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements; therefore, actual results could differ from management’s estimates. Recently Adopted Accounting Standards In June 2022, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (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. ASU 2022-03 also clarifies that an entity cannot, as a separate unit of account, recognize and measure a contractual sale restriction and requires certain disclosures for equity securities subject to contractual sale restrictions. The adoption of ASU 2022-03 on January 1, 2024 did not have a material impact on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements. 11 Loss per Common Share Basic loss per share is computed using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period and excludes any dilutive effects of common stock equivalent shares, such as stock options, restricted stock, and warrants. All restricted stock awards are considered outstanding but are included in the computation of basic loss per common share only when the underlying restrictions expire, the shares are no longer forfeitable, and are thus vested. All restricted stock units are included in the computation of basic loss per common share only when the underlying restrictions expire, the shares are no longer forfeitable, and are thus vested. Contingently issuable shares are included in basic loss per common share only when there are no circumstances under which those shares would not be issued. Diluted loss per common share is computed using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and common stock equivalent shares outstanding during the period using the treasury stock method. The Company excluded the outstanding securities summarized below (capitalized terms are described herein), which entitle the holders thereof to acquire shares of the Company’s common stock, from its calculation of net income per common share, as the dilutive securities were out-of-the-money and net loss per common share, as their effect would have been anti-dilutive. Common stock equivalent shares are excluded from the diluted calculations when a net loss is incurred as they would be anti-dilutive. Schedule of Common Stock Equivalent Shares Excluded From Diluted Calculations 2024 2023 As of September 30, 2024 2023 Series G convertible preferred stock 8,582 8,582 Financing warrants 39,774 39,774 ABG Warrants 999,540 999,540 AllHipHop warrants 5,682 5,682 Publisher Partner Warrants 9,800 9,800 Restricted stock units 88,660 845,903 Common stock options 3,190,015 5,744,890 Total 4,342,053 7,654,171 Anti-dilutive securities 4,342,053 7,654,171 2. Discontinued Operations On March 18, 2024, the Company discontinued the Sports Illustrated media business (the “SI Business”) that was operated under the Licensing Agreement with ABG-SI, LLC (“ABG”) dated June 14, 2019 (as amended to date, the “Licensing Agreement”). This discontinuation of the SI Business (i.e., discontinued operations) followed the termination of the Licensing Agreement by ABG on January 18, 2024. The last date of any obligation of the Company to perform under the Licensing Agreement was March 18, 2024. In connection with the termination, certain ABG Warrants vested (further details are provided under the heading Vesting of Warrants in Note 15). 12 The table below sets forth the loss from discontinued operations: Schedule of Discontinued Operations 2024 2023 2024 2023 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 ($ in thousands, except share data) Revenue $ 45 $ 26,422 $ 22,297 $ 74,118 Cost of revenue 160 12,199 15,006 40,431 Gross profit (loss) ( 115 ) 14,223 7,291 33,687 Operating expense Selling and marketing 140 12,849 12,142 37,570 General and administrative (1) 567 88 46,060 287 Depreciation and amortization - 3,671 2,401 11,011 Loss on impairment of assets (2) - - 39,391 - Total operating expenses 707 16,608 99,994 48,868 Loss from discontinued operations ( 822 ) ( 2,385 ) ( 92,703 ) ( 15,181 ) Income tax provision - ( 9 ) ( 6 ) ( 23 ) Net loss from discontinued operations $ ( 822 ) $ ( 2,394 ) $ ( 92,709 ) $ ( 15,204 ) (1) General and administrative expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, includes a $ 45,000 termination fee liability. (2) Loss on impairment of assets for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 of $ 39,391 , includes $ 8,601 for the impairment of intangible assets and $ 30,790 for the impairment of subscription acquisition costs. The table below sets forth the major classes of assets and liabilities of the discontinued operations: September 30, 2024 December 31, 2023 As of September 30, 2024 December 31, 2023 Assets Accounts receivable, net $ 528 $ 13,135 Subscription acquisition costs, current portion - 29,706 Prepayments and other current assets - 807 Current assets from discontinued operations 528 43,648 Subscription acquisition costs, net of current portion - 7,215 Acquired and other intangibles assets, net - 11,002 Noncurrent assets from discontinued operations - 18,217 Total assets from discontinued operations $ 528 $ 61,865 Liabilities Accounts payable $ 1,994 $ 2,554 Accrued expenses and other 1,927 1,868 Subscription refund liability 423 403 Royalty fee liability (1) 3,750 - Termination fee liability (1) 45,000 - Subscription liability, current portion 45,284 42,848 Current liabilities from discontinued operations 98,378 47,673 Subscription liability, net of current portion - 10,137 Noncurrent liabilities from discontinued operations - 10,137 Total liabilities from discontinued operations $ 98,378 $ 57,810 (1) Further details related to the alleged and disputed royalty fee liability of $ 3,750 and termination fee liability of $ 45,000 are described under the heading ABG Group Legal Matters in Note 19. 13 The table below sets forth the cash flows of the discontinued operations: 2024 2023 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 Cash flows from operating activities from discontinued operations Net loss from discontinued operations $ ( 92,709 ) $ ( 15,204 ) Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: Amortization of intangible assets 2,401 11,011 Loss on impairment of assets 39,391 - Stock-based compensation 592 1,861 Bad debt expense 561 - Change in operating assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable, net 12,046 2,770 Subscription acquisition costs 6,131 ( 1,631 ) Prepayments and other current assets 807 422 Accounts payable 3,190 ( 3,739 ) Accrued expenses and other 59 707 Subscription refund liability 20 ( 371 ) Subscription liability ( 7,701 ) ( 276 ) Termination fee liability 45,000 - Net cash provided by operating activities from discontinued operations $ 9,788 $ ( 4,450 ) Further details regarding legal matters in connection with the discontinued operations are provided under the heading ABG Group Legal Matters in Note 19. 3. Acquisitions and Dispositions The Company uses the acquisition method of accounting, which is based on ASC, Business Combinations (Topic 805) , and uses the fair value concepts which requires, among other things, that most assets acquired, and liabilities assumed be recognized at their fair values as of the acquisition date. Teneology, Inc. – On January 11, 2023, the Company entered into an asset purchase agreement with Teneology, Inc., (“Teneology”) pursuant to which it acquired certain assets (consisting of the RoadFood media business, including digital and television assets; the Moveable Feast media business, including digital and television assets; the Fexy-branded content studio business; and the MonkeySee YouTube Channel media business, collectively “Fexy Studios”), for a purchase price of $ 3,307 . The purchase price consisted of the following: (1) $ 500 cash paid at closing (including an advance payment of $ 250 prior to closing); (2) $ 75 deferred cash payments due in three equal installments of $ 25 on March 1, 2023 (paid), April 1, 2023 (paid) and May 1, 2023 (paid); (3) $ 200 deferred cash payment due on the first anniversary of the closing date, subject to certain indemnity provisions (paid in May 2024); and (4) the issuance of 274,692 shares of the Company’s common stock, subject to certain lock-up provisions, with a fair value of $ 2,000 on the transaction closing date (fair value was determined based on an independent appraisal); and which was subject to a put option under certain conditions (the “contingent consideration”) with a final vesting date of January 11, 2024 (further details for (3) and (4) are provided in Note 9). The number of shares of the Company’s common stock issued was determined based on a $ 2,225 value using the common stock trading price on the day immediately preceding the January 11, 2023 closing date (on the closing date the common stock trading price was $ 7.94 per share). The agreement also provided for a cash retention pool for certain employees of $ 300 , subject to vesting over three years upon continued employment and other conditions. The composition of the purchase price is as follows: Schedule of Composition Preliminary Assets Purchase Price Cash $ 500 Common stock 2,000 Contingent consideration 561 Deferred cash payments, as discounted 246 Total purchase consideration $ 3,307 The Company accounted for the asset acquisition as a business combination in accordance with ASC 805 since the acquisition met the definition of a business under the applicable guidance. 14 The Company incurred $ 99 in transaction costs related to the acquisition, which primarily consisted of legal and accounting expenses. The acquisition-related expenses were recorded in general and administrative expenses on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. The purchase price allocation resulted in the following amounts being allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the closing date of the acquisition based upon their respective fair values as summarized below: Summary of Preliminary Assets Purchase Price Allocation Advertiser relationships $ 663 Brand names 659 Goodwill 1,985 Net assets acquired $ 3,307 The Company utilized an independent appraisal firm to assist in the determination of the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, which required certain significant management assumptions and estimates. The fair value of the advertiser relationships were valued using the excess earnings method of the income approach and the brand names were valued using the relief-from-royalty method of the income approach. The estimated useful life is fifteen years ( 15.0 years) for the advertiser relationships and twelve years ( 12.0 years) for the brand names. The excess-of purchase price over the fair value amounts assigned to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed represents goodwill from the acquisition. Goodwill is recorded as a non-current asset that is not amortized but is subject to an annual review for impairment. The Company expects $ 1,678 of goodwill to be deductible for tax purposes. Further details related to an impairment of intangible assets (i.e., the advertiser relationships and brand names) are provided under the heading Intangible Assets in Note 4. Supplemental Pro forma Information The pro forma disclosures have been deemed impracticable for this acquisition since after making reasonable efforts the Company is unable to accept assumptions made by Teneology. The Company has determined, based on the information provided by Teneology and made available to the Company, that the earnings from the prior periods could not be verified since the acquisition only included certain activities of Teneology and financial statements were not available. In this regard, the Company: (1) made reasonable effort to obtain certain financial results of the certain activities but Teneology was unable to comply with this request; and (2) the presentation of the pro forma results and the assumptions made by Teneology management were unable to be independently substantiated. 2023 Disposition On November 17, 2023, the Company sold certain assets related to one of Parade’s business components known as Athlon Outdoors for cash proceeds of $ 1,061 ($ 1,000 sale price (with a target working capital of $ 272 ) plus a preliminary working capital adjustment of $ 61 ), as further reduced by a final working capital adjustment of $ 153 , as reflected in accrued expenses and other on the consolidated balance sheets, resulting in a final sale price of $ 908 . In connection with the sale, the Company disposed of certain advertiser relationships and trade name relating to that business component with a carrying value of $ 639 and $ 172 , respectively, along with the accounts receivable and accounts payable of the business component of $ 453 and $ 31 , respectively, resulting in a recognized loss on sale of assets of $ 325 . 15 4. Balance Sheet Components The components of certain balance sheet amounts are as follows: Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses – The Company receives payments from advertising customers based upon contractual payment terms; accounts receivable is recorded when the right to consideration becomes unconditional and are generally collected within 90 days. The Company generally receives payments from digital and print subscription customers at the time of sign up for each subscription; accounts receivable from merchant credit card processors are recorded when the right to consideration becomes unconditional and are generally collected weekly. Accounts receivable have been reduced by an allowance for credit losses. The Company maintains the allowance for estimated losses resulting from the inability of the Company’s customers to make required payments. The allowance represents the current estimate of lifetime expected credit losses over the remaining duration of existing accounts receivable considering current market conditions and supportable forecasts when appropriate. The estimate is a result of the Company’s ongoing evaluation of collectability, customer creditworthiness, historical levels of credit losses, and future expectations. Accounts receivable are written off when deemed uncollectible and collection of the receivable is no longer being actively pursued. Accounts receivable as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 of $ 25,858 and $ 31,676 , respectively, are presented net of allowance for credit losses. The following table summarizes the allowance for credit losses activity: Schedule of Allowance For Doubtful Accounts Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 (unaudited) Year Ended December 31, 2023 Allowance for credit losses beginning of year $ 374 $ 1,036 Additions 708 315 Deductions – write-offs - ( 977 ) Allowance for credit losses end of period $ 1,082 $ 374 Prepayments and Other Current Assets – Prepayments and other current assets are summarized as follows: Schedule of Prepayments and Other Current Assets September 30, 2024 (unaudited) December 31, 2023 As of September 30, 2024 (unaudited) December 31, 2023 Prepaid expenses $ 2,917 $ 2,139 Prepaid supplies 141 773 Refundable income and franchise taxes 149 157 Unamortized debt costs - 209 Employee retention credits 2,468 2,468 Other receivables - 45 Total prepayments and other current assets $ 5,675 $ 5,791 Under the provisions of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”) and the subsequent extensions of the CARES Act, the Company was eligible for a refundable employee retention credit subject to certain criteria. The Company determined that it qualifies for the tax credit under the CARES Act. In connection with the CARES Act, the Company adopted a policy to recognize the employee retention credit when earned and to offset the credit against the related expenditure. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company recorded the employee retention credits as a reduction to payroll and related expenses of $ 6,868 , in operating expenses on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company has a receivable balance of $ 2,468 as presented in the above table in prepaid expenses and other current assets on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Property and Equipment – Property and equipment are summarized as follows: Schedule of Property and Equipment September 30, 2024 (unaudited) December 31, 2023 As of September 30, 2024 (unaudited) December 31, 2023 Office equipment and computers $ 1,777 $ 1,777 Leasehold Improvements 54 - Furniture and fixtures 133 133 Gross property and equipment 1,964 1,910 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization ( 1,768 ) ( 1,582 ) Net property and equipment $ 196 $ 328 16 Depreciation and amortization expense for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was $ 56 and $ 79 , respectively. Depreciation and amortization expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was $ 186 and $ 276 , respectively. There were no impairment charges for the three months or nine months ended September 30, 2024. Impairment charges for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 of $ 0 and $ 55 , respectively, were recorded for property and equipment on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. Platform Development – Platform development costs are summarized as follows: Summary of Platform Development Costs September 30, 2024 (unaudited) December 31, 2023 As of September 30, 2024 (unaudited) December 31, 2023 Platform development $ 29,064 $ 26,054 Less accumulated amortization ( 21,861 ) ( 17,331 ) Net platform development $ 7,203 $ 8,723 A summary of platform development activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 (unaudited) is as follows: Summary of Platform Development Cost Activity Platform development beginning of year $ 26,054 Payroll-based costs capitalized 2,765 Total capitalized costs 28,819 Stock-based compensation 245 Platform development end of period $ 29,064 Amortization expense for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was $ 1,474 and $ 1,595 , respectively. Amortization expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was $ 4,530 and $ 4,753 , respectively. Amortization expense for platform development is included in cost of revenues on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. There were no impairment charges for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. Impairment charges for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 of $ 0 and $ 64 , respectively, were recorded for platform development on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. Intangible Assets – Intangible assets subject to amortization consisted of the following: Schedule of Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization As of September 30, 2024 (unaudited) As of December 31, 2023 Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Developed technology $ 17,333 $ ( 17,333 ) $ - $ 17,333 $ ( 17,333 ) $ - Trade name 5,181 ( 1,736 ) 3,445 5,181 ( 1,547 ) 3,634 Brand name 12,115 ( 3,376 ) 8,739 12,774 ( 2,374 ) 10,400 Subscriber relationships 2,150 ( 1,315 ) 835 2,150 ( 1,121 ) 1,029 Advertiser relationships 14,519 ( 3,898 ) 10,621 15,182 ( 2,832 ) 12,350 Database 1,140 ( 1,140 ) - 1,140 ( 1,140 ) - Digital content 355 ( 355 ) - 355 ( 311 ) 44 Total intangible assets $ 52,793 $ ( 29,153 ) $ 23,640 $ 54,115 $ ( 26,658 ) $ 27,457 Intangible assets subject to amortization were recorded as part of the Company’s business acquisitions. Amortization expense for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was $ 849 and $ 1,572 , respectively, of which amortization expense for developed technology of $ 0 and $ 596 , respectively, is included in cost of revenues on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. Amortization expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was $ 2,619 and $ 5,070 , respectively, of which amortization expense for developed technology of $ 0 and $ 2,130 , respectively, is included in cost of revenues on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. Impairment charges for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 of $ 0 and $ 1,198 , respectively, were recorded as a result of the disposition of Fexy Studios intangible assets, including the advertiser relationships of $ 608 and brand names of $ 590 , on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. No impairment charges for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 were recorded for the intangible assets. 17 Accrued Expenses and Other – Accrued expenses and other are summarized as follows: Schedule of Accrued Expenses September 30, 2024 December 31, 2023 As of September 30, 2024 December 31, 2023 General accrued expenses $ 4,748 $ 5,551 Accrued payroll and related taxes 3,457 4,515 Accrued publisher expenses 2,426 7,596 Accrued interest 11,220 3,824 Liabilities in connection with acquisitions and dispositions 66 1,119 Assumed lease liability 747 1,328 Lease termination liability 246 4,481 Other accrued expenses 476 489 Total accrued expenses and other $ 23,386 $ 28,903 5. Leases The Company has a real estate lease for the use of office space. The table below presents supplemental information related to the operating lease: Schedule of Supplemental Information Related to Operating Leases 2024 2023 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 Operating lease costs during the period (1) $ 308 $ 758 Cash payments included in the measurement of operating lease liabilities during the period $ 916 $ 362 Operating lease liability arising from obtaining lease right-of-use assets during the period $ 2,583 $ - Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years) as of period-end 6.17 1.01 Weighted-average discount rate during the period 10.85 % 9.90 % (1) Operating lease costs is presented net of sublease income that is not material. The Company generally utilizes its incremental borrowing rate based on information available at the commencement of the lease in determining the present value of future payments since the implicit rate for the Company’s leases is not readily determinable. Variable lease expense includes rental increases that are not fixed, such as those based on amounts paid to the lessor based on cost or consumption, such as maintenance and utilities. The components of operating lease costs were as follows: Schedule of Operating Lease Costs 2024 2023 2024 2023 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Operating lease costs: General and administrative $ 150 $ 259 $ 682 $ 922 Total operating lease costs (1) 150 259 682 922 Sublease income ( 125 ) ( 55 ) ( 374 ) ( 164 ) Total operating lease costs $ 25 $ 204 $ 308 $ 758 (1) Includes certain costs associated with an expired business membership agreement that permitted access to certain office space for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 of $ 155 and $ 465 , respectively, and month-to-month lease arrangements for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 of $ 96 and $ 266 , respectively. 18 Maturities of the operating lease liabilities as of September 30, 2024 are summarized as follows: Summary of Maturity of Lease Liabilities Years Ending December 31, 2024 (remaining three months of the year) $ - 2025 - 2026 652 2027 652 2028 652 Thereafter 1,249 Minimum lease payments 3,205 Less imputed interest ( 1,047 ) Present value of operating lease liabilities $ 2,158 Current portion of operating lease liabilities $ 247 Long term portion of operating lease liabilities 1,911 Total operating lease liabilities $ 2,158 Sublease Agreement – The Company has entered into agreements to sublease certain space that it does not occupy, through the duration of the lease terms, with one sublease through September 2024 and two other subleases (these operating leases were recorded as an assumed lease liability in connection with the acquisition of Men’s Journal) through March 2025. As of September 30, 2024, the Company is entitled to receive total sublease income of $ 288 (of which $ 265 will offset an assumed liability). Lease Termination – Effective September 30, 2021, the Company terminated a certain lease arrangement for office space. In connection with the termination, the Company agreed to pay the landlord cash payments and credits for market rate advertising. During the three months ended September 30, 2024, the Company made the final cash payment of $ 4,000 . As of September 30, 2024, $ 246 of credits for market rate advertising remains to be delivered, and is reflected as a lease termination liability in accrued expenses and other on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. 6. Goodwill The changes in carrying value of goodwill are as follows: Schedule of Changes in Carrying Value of Goodwill September 30, 2024 (unaudited) December 31, 2023 As of September 30, 2024 (unaudited) December 31, 2023 Carrying value at beginning of year $ 42,575 $ 39,344 Goodwill acquired in acquisition of Men’s Journal - 1,246 Goodwill acquired in acquisition of Fexy Studios - 1,985 Carrying value at end of period $ 42,575 $ 42,575 7. Line of Credit Line of Credit – In connection with the default under the Loan Documents (as further described below in Note 18) there was a cross-default under the SLR Digital Finance LLC (“SLR” and the “SLR Default”) financing and security agreement for a line of credit (the “Line of Credit”), where the Line of Credit, as amended, was terminated. In connection with the termination, the Company paid SLR $ 3,448 with the proceeds from the Simplify Loan as described in Note 12, representing the amount due on the outstanding loan balance, accrued interest, certain fees and contingency reserves other fees in connection with the termination. In connection with the SLR Default, SLR no longer provided funding under the Line of Credit while paying down the Line of Credit with payments received from the Company’s customers in accordance with the terms of the agreement. As of September 30, 2024, the Company repaid the full amount due under the Line of Credit. The Line of Credit, as amended, provided for (i) $ 40,000 maximum amount of advances available (subject to certain limits and eighty-five ( 85 % ) of eligible accounts receivable), (ii) an interest rate at the prime rate plus 4.0% per annum of the amount advanced (subject to minimum utilization of at least 10% of the maximum amount of advances available), (iii) payment of a fee equal to 2.25% of the maximum line amount with respect to any termination of the agreement prior to December 31, 2025 at the option of the Company at any time with 60 day notice, (iv) a payment of a performance fee in the amount equal to 2.25% of the maximum line amount, under certain circumstances in connection with the Business Combination (as further described below), and (v) a payment of a success fee in connection with the Business Combination under certain circumstances. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the outstanding balance under the Line of Credit was $ 0 and $ 19,609 , respectively. 19 The Company has refinanced the Line of Credit with a new credit facility with Simplify, as further described in Note 12. Information for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 with respect to interest expense related to the Line of Credit is provided under the heading Interest Expense in Note 12. 8. Liquidated Damages Payable Liquidated damages were recorded as a result of the following: (i) certain registration rights agreements that provide for damages if the Company does not register certain shares of the Company’s common stock within the requisite time frame (the “Registration Rights Damages”); and (ii) certain securities purchase agreements that provide for damages if the Company does not maintain its periodic filings with the SEC within the requisite time frame (the “Public Information Failure Damages”). Obligations with respect to the liquidated damages payable are summarized as follows: Summary of Liquidated Damages As of September 30, 2024 (unaudited) Registration Rights Damages Public Information Failure Damages Accrued Interest Balance MDB common stock to be issued (1) $ 15 $ - $ - $ 15 Series H convertible preferred stock 566 574 761 1,901 Convertible debentures - 144 85 229 Series J convertible preferred stock 152 152 156 460 Series K convertible preferred stock 166 70 312 548 Total $ 899 $ 940 $ 1,314 $ 3,153 As of December 31, 2023 Registration Rights Damages Public Information Failure Damages Accrued Interest Balance MDB common stock to be issued (1) $ 15 $ - $ - $ 15 Series H convertible preferred stock 565 574 659 1,798 Convertible debentures - 144 72 216 Series J convertible preferred stock 152 152 129 433 Series K convertible preferred stock 166 70 226 462 Total $ 898 $ 940 $ 1,086 $ 2,924 (1) Consists of shares of common stock issuable to MDB Capital Group, LLC (“MDB”). As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the short-term liquidated damages payable were $ 3,153 and $ 2,924 , respectively. The Company will continue to accrue interest on the liquidated damages balance at 1.0 % per month based on the balance outstanding as of September 30, 2024, or $ 3,153 , until paid. There is no scheduled date when the unpaid liquidated damages become due. The Series K convertible preferred stock remains subject to Registration Rights Damages and Public Information Failure Damages, which will accrue in certain circumstances, limited to 6 % of the aggregate amount invested. 20 On February 8, 2023, the Company entered into a stock purchase agreement with an investor, where the Company was liable for liquidated damages, pursuant to which the Company agreed to issue 47,252 shares of its common stock at a price equal to $ 10.56 per share (determined based on the volume-weighted average price of the Company’s common stock at the close of trading on the sixty (60) previous trading days), to the investor in lieu of an aggregate of $ 499 owed in liquidated damages as of the conversion date. On February 10, 2023 and April 10, 2023, the Company issued 35,486 and 11,766 shares of its common stock, respectively, in satisfaction of the liquidated damages. The Company prepared and filed a registration statement covering the resale of these shares of the Company’s common stock issued in lieu of payment of these liquidated damages in cash. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company recorded $ 369 ($ 45 on April 10, 2023 and $ 324 on February 10, 2023) in connection with the issuance of shares of the Company’s common stock and a gain of $ 130 ($ 84 on April 10, 2023 and $ 46 on February 10, 2023) on the settlement of the liquidated damages, totaling $ 499 , which was recorded in additional paid-in capital on the condensed consolidated statement of stockholders’ deficiency. 9. Fair Value The Company estimates the fair value of financial instruments using available market information and valuation methodologies the Company believes to be appropriate for these purposes. Considerable judgment and a high degree of subjectivity are involved in developing these estimates and, accordingly, they are not necessarily indicative of amounts the Company would realize upon disposition. The fair value hierarchy consists of three broad levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value, which are described below: Level 1 . Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; Level 2 . Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are either directly or indirectly observable; and Level 3 . Assets or liabilities for which fair value is based on valuation models with significant unobservable pricing inputs and which result in the use of management estimates. Fexy Put Option – The Company accounted for certain common stock issued in connection with the Fexy Studios acquisition that is subject to a put option (the “Fexy Put Option”), which provides for a cash payment to the sellers on the first anniversary date of the closing (on January 11, 2024) in the event the common stock trading price on such date is less than the common stock trading price on the day immediately preceding the acquisition date of $ 8.10 per share, as a derivative liability, which requires the Company to carry such amounts on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as a liability at fair value, as adjusted at each reporting period-end. On February 15, 2024, in connection with the contingent consideration related to the acquisition of Fexy Studios, the Company agreed to pay the amount due of $ 2,478 in four (4) equal installments of approximately $ 620 starting February 16, 2024 (paid $ 620 in February 2024) and then on the 15th day of each March (paid $ 620 in March 2024), April (paid $ 620 in April 2024) and May (paid $ 620 in May 2024) of 2024 comprised of the following: (i) $2,225 pursuant to the Fexy Put Option where the Company gave the recipients of the contingent consideration a right to put their 274,692 shares of the Company’s common stock; (ii) $200 deferred payment due under the purchase agreement; and (iii) $53 in other costs and reimbursable transition expenses payable. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company paid the Fexy Put Option and recorded the repurchase of 274,692 shares of the Company’s common stock issued in connection with the acquisition, resulting in a loss of $ 379 as reflected on the condensed consolidated statements of stockholders’ deficiency. The Company’s current debt, carried at amortized cost, consists of the Simplify Loan, the 2023 Notes and the Debt (all as further described below) with a carrying value of $ 1,100 , $ 8,000 and $ 102,404 as of September 30, 2024, respectively, and $ 0 , $ 7,887 and $ 102,309 as of December 31, 2023, respectively, approximates fair value due to their short term nature and based on current market interest rates for debt instruments of similar credit standing. 21 Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis consisted of the following as of December 31, 2023: Schedule of Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Contingent consideration $ 1,571 $ - $ 1,571 $ - Contingent Consideration – The fair value of the contingent consideration was primarily dependent on the common stock trading price on the first anniversary of the closing of Fexy Studios, or January 11, 2024. As of December 31, 2023, the estimated fair value was calculated based on the $ 8.10 put option amount based on the exercise price of the Company’s common stock at the acquisition date, less the $ 2.38 the Company’s common stock trading price as of the reporting date, or $ 5.72 per share, multiplied by the number of shares subject to the put option of 274,692 , which approximated the value if the Black-Scholes option-pricing model was used given the proximity date of the put option. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the change in valuation of the contingent consideration of $ 313 and $ 469 , respectively, was recognized in other expense on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. For the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the change in valuation of the contingent consideration of $ 0 (the Fexy Put Option was called in the three months ended March 31, 2024) and $ 60 , respectively, was recognized in other expense on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. 10. Bridge Notes 2023 Notes In connection with the Note Purchase Agreement, as amended from time-to-time, the Company entered into the Third Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement dated December 15, 2022 (as further described under the heading Former Principal Stockholder in Note 18). On August 31, 2023 pursuant to Amendment No. 1 under the Third Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement dated August 14, 2023, the Company issued $ 5,000 aggregate principal amount of senior secured notes (the “2023 Notes” or “Bridge Notes”). The provisions of Amendment No. 1 also permit certain incremental borrowings in the amount up to $ 3,000 at the sole discretion of the purchaser (the “Incremental 2023 Notes”), subject to a minimum amount of $ 1,000 and other conditions. On September 29, 2023, the Company issued $ 1,000 aggregate principal amount of Incremental 2023 Notes. On November 27, 2023, the Company issued $ 2,000 aggregate principal amount of Incremental 2023 Notes. The terms of 2023 Notes provide for: ● an interest rate fixed at 10.0 % per annum; ● a maturity date of December 31, 2026; and ● an election to prepay the notes, at any time, at 100 % of the principal amount due with no premium or penalty. The debt issuance cost incurred under the debt modifications pursuant to certain of these borrowings are being amortized over the term of the 2023 Notes. Further, the debt modification pursuant to certain of these borrowings resulted in the unamortized debt issuance cost being amortized over the extended term of the 2023 Notes. On December 29, 2023, the Company failed to make the interest payment due on the 2023 Notes resulting in an event of default with subsequent agreement to a forbearance period that was extended to September 30, 2024. On July 12, 2024, the Company entered into Amendment No. 3 to the Third Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement (“Amendment No. 3”) which deferred the accrued interest due date to December 31, 2024 (refer to the heading Principal Stockholder in Note 18). On November 6, 2024, the Company received a letter from Renew (as described in Note 18) confirming the Company is not currently in default under the Bridge Notes and Debt (as further described in Note 11 and collectively the Bridge Notes and Debt are referred to as the “Loan Documents”) due to the cure of the default identified in the forbearance letter (as updated from time-to-time the “forbearance letter”) (see Note 20). As of September 30, 2024, the effective interest rate on the 2023 Notes was 14.2 % . As of September 30, 2024, the balance outstanding under the 2023 Notes was $ 8,000 . Information for the three months and nine ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, with respect to interest expense related to the 2023 Notes is provided under the heading Interest Expense in Note 12. 22 11. Debt Pursuant to the Note Purchase Agreement, as amended from time-to time, leading to the Third Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement (as further described under the heading Former Principal Stockholder in Note 18), as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company has notes outstanding referred to as the senior secured notes (the “Senior Secured Notes”), the delayed draw term notes (the “Delayed Draw Term Notes”) and the 2022 bridge notes (the “2022 Bridge Notes”), as further described below. Senior Secured Notes The terms of the Senior Secured Notes provide for: ● a provision for the Company to enter into Delayed Draw Term Notes (as described below); ● a provision where the Company added $ 13,852 to the principal balance of the notes for interest payable prior to January 1, 2022 as payable in-kind; ● a provision where the paid in-kind interest can be paid in shares of the Company’s common stock based upon the conversion rate specified in the Certificate of Designation for the Series K convertible preferred stock, subject to certain adjustments; ● an interest rate of 10.0 % per annum, subject to adjustment in the event of default, with a provision that within one (1) business day after receipt of cash proceeds from any issuance of equity interests, unless waived, the Company will prepay certain obligations in an amount equal to such cash proceeds, net of underwriting discounts and commissions; ● interest on the notes payable after February 15, 2022, at the agent’s sole discretion, either (a) in cash quarterly in arrears on the last day of each fiscal quarter or (b) by continuing to add such interest due on such payment dates to the principal amount of the notes; ● a maturity date of December 31, 2026 , subject to certain acceleration conditions; and ● the Company to enter into the 2022 Bridge Notes for $ 36,000 (as further described below). Delayed Draw Term Notes The terms of the Delayed Draw Term Notes provide for: ● an interest rate of 10.0 % per annum, subject to adjustment in the event of default; ● interest on the notes payable after February 15, 2022, at the agent’s sole discretion, either (a) in cash quarterly in arrears on the last day of each fiscal quarter or (b) by continuing to add such interest due on such payment dates to the principal amount of the notes; and ● a maturity date on December 31, 2026 , subject to certain acceleration terms. 23 2022 Bridge Notes The terms of the 2022 Bridge Notes provide for: ● an interest rate fixed at 10.0 % per annum (as amended from interest that was payable in cash at an interest rate of 12 % per annum quarterly; with interest rate increases of 1.5 % per annum on March 1, 2023, May 1, 2023, and July 1, 2023, pursuant to the First Amendment); ● a maturity date of December 31, 2026 , and subject to certain mandatory prepayment requirements, including, but not limited to, a requirement that the Company apply the net proceeds from certain debt incurrences or equity offerings to repay the notes; and ● an election to prepay the notes, at any time, in whole or in part with no premium or penalty. The following table summarizes the debt: Schedule of long term debt As of September 30, 2024 (unaudited) As of December 31, 2023 Principal Balance Unamortized Discount and Debt Issuance Costs Carrying Value Principal Balance Unamortized Discount and Debt Issuance Costs Carrying Value Senior Secured Notes, effective interest rate of 10.1% as of September 30, 2024, as amended $ 62,691 $ ( 204 ) $ 62,487 $ 62,691 $ ( 272 ) $ 62,419 Senior Secured Notes, effective interest rate of 10.1 % as of September 30, 2024, as amended $ 62,691 $ ( 204 ) $ 62,487 $ 62,691 $ ( 272 ) $ 62,419 Delayed Draw Term Notes, effective interest rate of 10.2 % as of September 30, 2024, as amended 4,000 ( 23 ) 3,977 4,000 ( 31 ) 3,969 2022 Bridge Notes, effective interest rate of 10.2 % as of September 30, 2024, as amended 36,000 ( 60 ) 35,940 36,000 ( 79 ) 35,921 Total $ 102,691 $ ( 287 ) $ 102,404 $ 102,691 $ ( 382 ) $ 102,309 The debt issuance costs incurred under the debt modification pursuant to the First Amendment are being amortized over the term of the long-term debt. The debt modification pursuant to the Second Amendment resulted in the unamortized debt issuance cost being amortized over the extended term of the long-term debt. On December 29, 2023, the Company failed to make the interest payment due on the Secured Senior Notes, Delayed Draw Term Notes and 2022 Bridge Notes (collectively the “Debt”) resulting in an event of default with subsequent agreement to a forbearance period that was extended to September 30, 2024. On July 12, 2024, the Company entered into Amendment No. 3 which further deferred the accrued interest due date to December 31, 2024 (see Note 18). On November 6, 2024, the Company received a letter from Renew (as described in Note 18) confirming the Company is not currently in default under the Loan Documents due to the cure of the default identified in the forbearance letter (see Note 20). As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the current maturities of the Debt were $ 102,404 and $ 102,309 , respectively. As of September 30, 2024, the principal balance due on maturity was $ 102,691 . Information for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, with respect to interest expense related to the Simplify Loan is provided under the heading Interest Expense in Note 12. 24 12. Simplify Loan On August 19, 2024, the Company entered into an amended and restated promissory note (the “Amended Promissory Note”), in connection with the amendment to the March 13, 2024 working capital loan agreement with Simplify, a related party as further described in Note 18 (the “Simplify Loan”), pursuant to which the Company has available up to $ 50,000 (originally $ 25,000 ) at ten percent ( 10.0 % ) interest rate per annum (the “Applicable Interest Rate”), payable monthly in arrears with a maturity on December 1, 2026 (originally March 13, 2026). The Simplify Loan is secured by certain assets of the Company and its subsidiaries, which are also guarantors of the obligations. In connection with the Amended Promissory Note, on August 19, 2024, the Company and Simplify also entered into a common stock purchase agreement (the “Common Stock Purchase Agreement”), whereby $ 15,000 of outstanding indebtedness under the Simplify Loan was exchanged for shares of the Company’s common stock, as further described under the heading Common Stock Purchase Agreement in Note 14 and under the heading Simplify Loan Exchange for Common Stock in Note 18. In the event of a default, including but not limited to the failure to pay any amounts when due, the interest will accrue at the Applicable Interest Rate plus five percent ( 5.0 % ) and the Simplify Loan will be payable upon demand by Simplify. As of September 30, 2024, the balance outstanding on the Simplify Loan was $ 1,100 . In connection with the closing of the Simplify Loan, the Company borrowed $ 3,448 to repay the outstanding loan balance, accrued interest, certain fees and contingency reserves under the Line of Credit. Information for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 with respect to interest expense related to the debt is provided below. Interest Expense The following table represents interest expense: Summary of Interest Expense 2024 2023 2024 2023 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Amortization of debt costs: Line of Credit $ - $ 54 $ 418 $ 161 2023 Notes - 64 113 64 Senior Secured Notes 23 228 68 676 Delayed Draw Term Notes 2 26 8 77 2022 Bridge Notes 5 161 19 1,200 Total amortization of debt costs 30 533 626 2,178 Noncash and accrued interest: 2023 Notes 204 - 608 - Senior Secured Notes 1,601 - 4,771 - Delayed Draw Term Notes 102 - 304 - 2022 Bridge Notes 920 - 2,740 - Other - 152 - 754 Total noncash and accrued interest 2,827 152 8,423 754 Cash paid interest: Line of Credit - 598 1,706 1,345 Simplify Loan 189 - 552 - 2023 Notes - 44 - 44 Senior Secured Notes - 1,602 - 4,754 Delayed Draw Term Notes - 102 - 303 2022 Bridge Notes - 1,317 - 3,764 Other 113 32 440 421 Total cash paid interest (1) 302 3,695 2,698 10,631 Less interest income (2) - ( 338 ) - ( 338 ) Total interest expense $ 3,159 $ 4,042 $ 11,747 $ 13,225 (1) During the three months ended September 30, 2024, prior accrued interest of $ 363 related to the Simplify Loan was paid in cash, resulting in $ 665 of total cash paid interest. (2) During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company recorded interest income of $ 338 related to refunds received from the employee retention credits. 25 13. Preferred Stock The Company has the authority to issue 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock, $ 0.01 par value per share, consisting of authorized and/or outstanding shares as of September 30, 2024 as follows: ● 1,800 authorized shares designated as “Series G Convertible Preferred Stock”, of which 168 shares are outstanding. ● 23,000 authorized shares designated as “Series H Convertible Preferred Stock” (as further described below), of which no shares are outstanding. 14. Stockholders’ Deficiency Common Stock The Company has the authority to issue 1,000,000,000 shares of common stock, $ 0.01 par value per share. Common Stock Purchase Agreement – On August 19, 2024, in connection with the Amended Promissory Note, the Company and Simplify entered into a Common Stock Purchase Agreement, where $ 15,000 of outstanding indebtedness under the March 13, 2024 Simplify Loan was exchanged for 17,797,817 shares of the Company’s common stock at a purchase price of approximately $ 0.84 per share, based on a 60-day volume weighted-average price of the Company’s common stock, which approximated the trading price on August 19, 2024, as reflected on the condensed consolidated statements of stockholders’ deficiency. Further information is provided in Note 18. Common Stock Private Placement – On February 14, 2024, the Company entered into a subscription agreement (the “Subscription Agreement”) with Simplify, pursuant to which the Company agreed to sell and issue to Simplify in a private placement (the “Private Placement”) an aggregate of 5,555,555 shares (the “Private Placement Shares”) of the Company’s common stock, at a purchase price of $ 2.16 per share, a price equal to the 60-day volume weighted average price of the Company’s common stock. The Private Placement closed on February 14, 2024 and the Company received proceeds from the Private Placement of $ 12,000 as reflected on the condensed consolidated statements of stockholders’ deficiency. The proceeds were used for working capital and general corporate purposes. Further information is provided in Note 18. Common Stock Registered Direct Offering – On March 31, 2023, the Company entered into common stock purchase agreements with certain purchasers, pursuant to which the Company agreed to issue and sell in a registered direct offering an aggregate of 2,963,918 shares of the Company’s common stock at a purchase price of $ 3.88 per share, with gross proceeds of $ 11,500 . Net proceeds of $ 11,144 were received, after deducting issuance costs $ 356 , as reflected on the condensed consolidated statement of stockholder’s deficiency. No underwriter or placement agent participated in the registered direct offering. The net proceeds were used for working capital and general corporate purposes. Further information is provided in Note 18. Restricted Stock Units – The Company issued, in connection with the vesting of restricted stock units, 89,119 and 5,442 shares of the Company’s common stock during the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, as reflected on the condensed consolidated statements of stockholders’ equity. The Company issued, in connection with the vesting of restricted stock units, 836,259 and 425,901 shares of the Company’s common stock during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, as reflected on the condensed consolidated statements of stockholders’ equity. 15. Compensation Plans The Company provides stock-based and equity-based compensation in the form of (a) restricted stock awards and restricted stock units to certain employees (the “Restricted Stock”), (b) stock option awards, unrestricted stock awards and stock appreciation rights to employees, directors and consultants under various plans (the “Common Stock Options”), and (c) common stock warrants, referred to as the ABG Warrants and Publisher Partner Warrants (collectively the “Warrants”) as referenced in the below table. 26 Stock-based compensation and equity-based expense charged to operations or capitalized are summarized as follows: Summary of Stock-based Compensation Restricted Stock Common Stock Options Warrants Totals Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 Restricted Stock Common Stock Options Warrants Totals Cost of revenue $ - $ 127 $ 4 $ 131 Selling and marketing 3 31 - 34 General and administrative 485 82 - 567 Total costs charged to operations 488 240 4 732 Capitalized platform development - 17 - 17 Total stock-based compensation $ 488 $ 257 $ 4 $ 749 Restricted Stock Common Stock Options Warrants Totals Three Months Ended September 30, 2023 Restricted Stock Common Stock Options Warrants Totals Cost of revenue $ 197 $ 526 $ 1 $ 724 Selling and marketing 65 224 - 289 General and administrative 1,611 881 257 2,749 Total costs charged to operations 1,873 1,631 258 3,762 Capitalized platform development - 237 - 237 Total stock-based compensation $ 1,873 $ 1,868 $ 258 $ 3,999 Restricted Stock Common Stock Options Warrants Totals Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 Restricted Stock Common Stock Options Warrants Totals Cost of revenue $ 119 $ 658 $ 10 $ 787 Selling and marketing 14 167 - 181 General and administrative 789 387 - 1,176 Total costs charged to operations 922 1,212 10 2,144 Capitalized platform development - 245 - 245 Total stock-based compensation $ 922 $ 1,457 $ 10 $ 2,389 Restricted Stock Common Stock Options Warrants Totals Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 Restricted Stock Common Stock Options Warrants Totals Cost of revenue $ 1,655 $ 1,853 $ 7 $ 3,515 Selling and marketing 193 760 - 953 General and administrative 6,298 3,598 753 10,649 Total costs charged to operations 8,146 6,211 760 15,117 Capitalized platform development - 785 - 785 Total stock-based compensation $ 8,146 $ 6,996 $ 760 $ 15,902 27 Unrecognized compensation expense and expected weighted-average period to be recognized related to the stock-based compensation awards and equity-based awards as of September 30, 2024 were as follows: Schedule of Unrecognized Compensation Expense As of September 30, 2024 Restricted Stock Common Stock Options Warrants Totals Unrecognized compensation expense $ 451 $ 1,015 $ 19 $ 1,485 Weighted average period expected to be recognized (in years) 0.93 1.02 1.52 1.00 Vesting of Warrants – On January 2, 2024, in connection with the default under the Licensing Agreement, the Performance-Based Warrants totaling 599,724 vested as a result of the default pursuant to certain provisions where all of the warrants automatically vest upon certain terminations of the Licensing Agreement by ABG. Of the warrants that vested, 449,793 had an exercise price of $ 9.24 per share and 149,931 had an exercise price of $ 18.48 per share. The accelerated vesting of the ABG Warrants did not result in any additional stock-based compensation expense during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. Modification of Awards – On February 28, 2023, the Company modified certain equity awards as a result of the resignation of a senior executive employee where 38,026 restricted stock units with time-based vesting that were unvested were vested and 21,117 options for shares of the Company’s common stock with time-based vesting that were unvested were vested, each subject to compliance with applicable securities laws and certain other provisions. In connection with the modification of these equity awards, the Company agreed to purchase options exercisable for 45,632 shares of the Company’s common stock (including unvested options that vested totaling 11,117 shares and previously vested options totaling 34,515 shares, both of which were in the money) as of the resignation date of the employee at a price of $ 10.29 per share, reduced by the exercise price and required tax withholdings, subject to certain conditions. The modification of the equity awards resulted in the unamortized costs being recognized at the modification date. The cash price of $ 10.29 per option less the strike price of $ 8.82 per option resulted in incremental cost of $ 68 being recognized at the modification date. The modification resulted in liability classification of the equity awards, with $ 68 paid during the nine months ended September 30, 2023. 16. Revenue Recognition Disaggregation of Revenue The following table provides information about disaggregated revenue by category, geographical market and timing of revenue recognition: Schedule of Disaggregation of Revenue 2024 2023 2024 2023 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue by category: Digital revenue Digital advertising $ 23,067 $ 28,251 $ 66,533 $ 70,363 Digital subscriptions 1,807 2,962 5,511 9,809 Licensing and syndication revenue 1,837 2,230 6,758 8,681 Other digital revenue 6,320 1,088 9,327 2,858 Total digital revenue 33,031 34,531 88,129 91,711 Print revenue Print advertising - 813 - 2,529 Print subscriptions 524 1,652 1,550 5,246 Total print revenue 524 2,465 1,550 7,775 Total $ 33,555 $ 36,996 $ 89,679 $ 99,486 Revenue by geographical market: United States $ 31,865 $ 35,579 $ 84,464 $ 95,847 Other 1,690 1,417 5,215 3,639 Total $ 33,555 $ 36,996 $ 89,679 $ 99,486 Revenue by timing of recognition: At point in time $ 31,748 $ 34,034 $ 84,168 $ 89,677 Over time 1,807 2,962 5,511 9,809 Total $ 33,555 $ 36,996 $ 89,679 $ 99,486 Total revenue $ 33,555 $ 36,996 $ 89,679 $ 99,486 For the three months and nine ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, disaggregated revenue represents revenue from continuing operations. 28 Contract Balances The timing of the Company’s performance under its various contracts often differs from the timing of the customer’s payment, which results in the recognition of a contract asset or a contract liability. A contract asset is recognized when a good or service is transferred to a customer and the Company does not have the contractual right to bill for the related performance obligations. A contract liability is recognized when consideration is received from the customer prior to the transfer of goods or services. The following table provides information about contract balances: Schedule of Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability September 30, 2024 (unaudited) December 31, 2023 As of September 30, 2024 (unaudited) December 31, 2023 Unearned revenue (short-term contract liabilities): Digital revenue $ 7,574 $ 16,938 Total short-term contract liabilities $ 7,574 $ 16,938 Unearned revenue (long-term contract liabilities): Digital revenue $ 357 $ 542 Total long-term contract liabilities $ 357 $ 542 Unearned Revenue – Unearned revenue, also referred to as contract liabilities, include payments received in advance of performance under certain contracts and are recognized as revenue over time. The Company records contract liabilities as unearned revenue on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. 17. Income Taxes The provision for income taxes in interim periods is determined using an estimate of the Company’s annual effective tax rate, adjusted for discrete items, if any, that arise during the period. Each quarter, the Company updates its estimate of its annual effective tax rate, and if the estimated annual effective tax rate changes, the Company makes a cumulative adjustment in such period. The quarterly provision for income taxes, and estimate of the Company’s annual effective tax rate, are subject to variation due to several factors, including variability in pre-tax income (or loss), the mix of jurisdictions to which such income relates, changes in how the Company conducts business, and tax law developments. The income tax provision effective tax rate for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was ( 0.83 ) % and 0.60 %, respectively. The income tax provision effective tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was 0.79 % and 0.42 %, respectively. The deferred income taxes for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was primarily due to deferred tax liabilities on indefinite lived intangible assets. The realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon a variety of factors, including the generation of future taxable income, the reversal of deferred tax liabilities, and tax planning strategies. Based upon the Company’s historical operating losses and the uncertainty of future taxable income, the Company has provided a valuation allowance against the deferred tax assets that will not be realized as of September 30, 2024 and 2023. As of September 30, 2024 and 2023, the Company has no uncertain tax positions or interest and penalties accrued. 29 18. Related Party Transactions Principal Stockholder Loan Documents – On January 5, 2024, as part of negotiations with Renew Group Private Limited (“Renew”), an affiliated entity of Simplify Inventions, LLC (“Simplify”), in connection with the Company’s failure on December 29, 2023 to make the interest payment due on the Loan Documents, dated December 15, 2022 held by Renew in the amount of $ 2,797 , that resulted in an event of default under the Loan Documents, Renew agreed in writing to a forbearance period through March 29, 2024 (subsequently extended to September 30, 2024), that was originally subject to the Company retaining a chief restructuring officer acceptable to Renew, while reserving its rights and remedies. In connection with the forbearance, the Company had an engagement with FTI Consulting Inc., a global business advisory firm (“FTI”) from January 5, 2024 through April 26, 2024, to assist the Company with its turnaround plans and forge an expedited path to sustainable positive cash flow and earnings to create shareholder value (the “FTI Engagement”). In connection with the FTI Engagement, Jason Frankl, a senior managing director of FTI, was appointed as the Company’s Chief Business Transformation Officer. He was later appointed as the interim Co-President. Upon completion of their work under the FTI Engagement satisfactory to Renew and the Company, the FTI Engagement was terminated as of April 26, 2024 and Mr. Frankl resigned as Co-President and Chief Business Transformation Officer. On July 12, 2024, as described above, the Company entered into Amendment No. 3, pursuant to which interest that was, or will be, due on December 31, 2023, March 31, 2024, June 30, 2024 and September 30, 2024 will now be due on or before December 31, 2024, as well as the interest otherwise due on December 31, 2024. The deferral is contingent on, among other things, no events of default occurring under the Loan Documents during the deferral period. On November 6, 2024, the Company received a letter from Renew confirming the Company is not currently in default under the Loan Documents due to the cure of the default identified in the forbearance letter (see Note 20). The outstanding principal on the Loan Documents was $ 110,691 ($ 8,000 for the 2023 Notes and $ 102,691 for the Debt) as of September 30, 2024. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company had certain transactions with Renew, where it incurred interest expense totaling $ 2,827 and $ 8,423 , respectively, under the Loan Documents, none of which was paid. As of September 30, 2024, the total balance due the related party under the Loan Documents was $ 11,220 as reflected within accrued expenses and other as accrued interest on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Simplify Loan Exchange for Common Stock – On August 19, 2024, in connection with the Common Stock Purchase Agreement, $ 15,000 of outstanding indebtedness under the March 13, 2024 Simplify Loan was exchanged for 17,797,817 shares of the Company’s common stock. Simplify Loan – For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company had certain transactions with Simplify, where it incurred interest expense totaling $ 189 and $ 552 , respectively, under the Simplify Loan. Simplify Revenue – For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company recognized digital advertising revenue from transactions with Living Essentials, LLC (“Living Essentials”), an affiliate of Simplify, totaling $ 3,128 and $ 4,290 , respectively. The outstanding accounts receivable due from Living Essentials was $ 3,465 as of September 30, 2024. Common Stock Private Placement – As a result of the issuance of the Private Placement Shares to Simplify, Simplify owns approximately 54.3 % (subsequently increased to 71.4 % in connection with the Common Stock Purchase Agreement) of the outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock, resulting in a change in control. As a result, Simplify has the ability to determine the outcome of any issue submitted to the Company’s stockholders for approval, including the election of directors. Prior to the consummation of the Private Placement, the Company’s public stockholders held a majority of the outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock. The funds used by Simplify to purchase the Private Placement Shares came from the working capital of Simplify. 30 Business Combination – Effective August 19, 2024, the Business Combination Agreement, dated November 5, 2023, as amended (the “Business Combination Agreement”), among the Company, Simplify, Bridge Media Networks, LLC, New Arena Holdco, Inc., Energy Merger Sub I, LLC and Energy Merger Sub II, LLC was terminated by mutual agreement. The Company incurred no penalties as a result of the early termination of the Business Combination Agreement. Former Principal Stockholder Note Purchase Agreement – The Company had an outstanding obligation with BRF Finance Co., LLC (“BRF”), an affiliated entity of B. Riley Financial, Inc. (“B. Riley”), in its capacity as agent for the purchasers and as purchaser, pursuant to a third amended and restated note purchase agreement (the “Note Purchase Agreement”) entered into on December 15, 2022, that was further amended pursuant to a first amendment to the third amended and restated note purchase agreement on August 14, 2023 (the “First Amendment” as further described below), where it amended the second amended and restated note purchase agreement issued on January 23, 2022. The Note Purchase Agreement contains provisions related to the 2022 Bridge Notes, 2023 Notes, Senior Secured Notes, and Delayed Draw Term Notes, all as further described below and referred to together as the “Notes”. Under the terms of the Note Purchase Agreement and First Amendment, in the event there is a mandatory prepayment requirement (as further described below), the principal payment of the notes will be applied to: (1) the 2023 Notes until paid in full; (2) then to the 2022 Bridge Notes until paid in full; (3) then to the Delayed Draw Terms Notes until paid in full; and (4) then to the Senior Secured Notes. All borrowings under the Notes are collateralized by substantially all assets of the Company secured by liens and guaranteed by the Company’s subsidiaries. The Notes provide for a default interest rate equal to the rate of interest in effect at the time of default plus 4.0%, along with other provision for acceleration of the Notes under certain conditions. The Notes provided for certain affirmative covenants, including certain financial reporting obligations. On December 1, 2023, Renew purchased all of the notes held by B. Riley and assumed the role of agent under the Note Purchase Agreement, and also purchased all of the common stock held by B. Riley. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company paid in cash interest of $ 3,065 and $ 9,069 on the Notes, due to BRF. Registered Direct Offering – On March 31, 2023, in connection with the registered direct offering, the Company entered into common stock purchase agreements for 1,009,021 shares of the Company’s common stock for a total of $ 3,915 in gross proceeds with B. Riley, at a price per share of $ 3.88 per share. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company had certain transactions with B. Riley, where it paid fees associated with the common stock public offering totaling $ 2,440 . Board Members Registered Direct Offering – On March 31, 2023, in connection with the registered direct offering, the Company entered into common stock purchase agreements for 317,518 shares of the Company’s common stock for a total of $ 1,232 in gross proceeds with certain directors and affiliates, at a price of $ 3.88 per share, as follows: (i) 64,000 shares for $ 248 to H. Hunt Allred, a director, through certain trusts ( 32,000 shares are directly beneficially owned by the Allred 2002 Trust - HHA and 32,000 shares are directly beneficially owned by the by Allred 2002 Trust - NLA); (ii) 195,529 shares for $ 759 to 180 Degree Capital Corp, a former beneficial holder of more than 5 % of the Company’s common stock; (iii) 25,773 shares for $ 100 to Daniel Shribman, a former director; (iv) 25,773 shares for $ 100 to Ross Levinsohn, a former director and the Company’s former Chief Executive Officer; and (v) 6,443 shares for $ 25 to Paul Edmonson, a former executive officer. 19. Commitments and Contingencies Legal Contingencies Claims and Litigation – From time to time, the Company may be subject to claims and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business. The outcome of any litigation is inherently uncertain. Based on the Company’s current knowledge it believes that the final outcome of the matters discussed below will not likely, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on its business, financial position, results of operations or cash flows; however, in light of the uncertainties involved in such matters, there can be no assurance that the outcome of each case or the costs of litigation, regardless of outcome, will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business. 31 On January 30, 2024, the former President, Media filed an action against the Company and Manoj Bhargava, the former interim CEO and a principal stockholder, alleging claims for breach of contract, failure to pay wages and defamation, among other things, in the United States District Court of the Southern District of New York, seeking damages in an unspecified amount. The Company has executed a confidential term sheet with the former President, Media and the parties are in the process of finalizing the applicable documentation which will resolve the matter to the satisfaction of the parties to the litigation. On March 21, 2024, the former CEO and Chairman of the board of directors filed an action against the Company, members of its board of directors and Simplify, alleging claims for retaliation, breach of contract, wrongful termination and age discrimination, among other things, in the Superior Court of the State of California seeking damages in an amount of $ 20,000 . The Company believes that it has strong defenses to these claims and intends to vigorously defend itself and the allegations made in this lawsuit. ABG Group Legal Matters On April 1, 2024, Authentic Brands Group, LLC, ABG-SI, LLC, and ABG Intermediate Holdings 2 LLC (collectively referred to as the “ABG Group”) filed an action against the Company and Manoj Bhargava, the former interim CEO of the Company and a principal stockholder, alleging, among other things, breach of contract in the United States District Court of the Southern District of New York seeking damages in the amount of $ 48,750 (the alleged and disputed $ 3,750 royalty fee liability and $ 45,000 termination fee liability as reflected in current liabilities from discontinued operations). On June 7, 2024, the Company filed a response denying ABG Group’s alleged breach of contract action and filed a counterclaim against ABG Group and Minute Media, Inc. alleging, among other things, unfair competition, misappropriation of trade secrets, unjust enrichment, breach of contract and tortious interference with contract. On August 2, 2024, ABG Group filed an amended complaint which the Company responded to on August 22, 2024 and subsequently filed counterclaims against ABG Group and Sportority, Inc. d/b/a Minute Media. A settlement conference is scheduled for December 4, 2024. 20. Subsequent Events The Company performed an evaluation of subsequent events through the date of filing of these consolidated financial statements with the SEC. Other than the below described subsequent events, there were no material subsequent events which affected, or could affect, the amounts or disclosures on the consolidated financial statements. Update to Renew Forbearance On November 6, 2024, the Company received a letter from Renew stating that, as a result of the modifications to the Loan Documents agreed to by Renew and the Company in Amendment No. 3, the Company is not currently in default under the Loan Documents due to the cure of the default identified in the forbearance letter. 32 ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 should be read together with our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report and in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2023 included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 1, 2024. The following discussion contains “forward-looking statements” that reflect our future plans, estimates, beliefs and expected performance. Our actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated and expressed in such forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors. We caution that assumptions, expectations, projections, intentions or beliefs about future events may, and often do, vary from actual results and the differences can be material. Please see “Forward-Looking Statements.” Overview We are a media company that leverages technology to build deep content verticals powered by anchor brands and a best-in-class digital media platform (the “Platform”) empowering publishers who impact, inform, educate, and entertain. Our strategy is to focus on key subject matter verticals where audiences are passionate about a topic category (e.g., sports and finance) where we can leverage the strength of our core brands to grow our audience and increase monetization both within our core brands as well as for our media publisher partners (each, a “Publisher Partner”). Our focus is on leveraging our Platform and brands in targeted verticals to maximize audience reach, enhance engagement, and optimize monetization of digital publishing assets for the benefit of our users, our advertiser clients, and our greater than 40 owned and operated properties as well as properties we run on behalf of independent Publisher Partners. We own and operate Athlon Sports, TheStreet, The Spun, Parade, and Men’s Journal and power more than 360 independent Publisher Partners, including the many sports team sites that contribute to Athlon Sports. Each Publisher Partner joins the Platform by invitation only with the objective of improving our position in key verticals while optimizing the performance of the Publisher Partner. Publisher Partners incur the costs in content creation on their respective channels and receive a share of the revenue associated with their content. Because of the state-of-the-art technology and large scale of the Platform and our expertise in search engine optimization, social media, ad monetization and subscription marketing, Publisher Partners continually benefit from our ongoing technological advances and audience development expertise. Additionally, we believe the lead brands within our verticals create a halo benefit for all Publisher Partners while each of them adds to the breadth and quality of content. While the Publisher Partners benefit from these critical performance improvements they may also save substantial technology, infrastructure, advertising sales, member marketing and management costs. Of the more than 360 Publisher Partners, a large majority of them publish content within one of our four verticals of sports, finance, lifestyle and men’s lifestyle, and oversee an online community for their respective sites, leveraging our Platform, monetization operation, distribution channels and data and analytics offerings and benefiting from our ability to engage the collective audiences within a single network. Generally, Publisher Partners are independently owned, strategic partners who receive a share of revenue from the interaction with their content. Audiences expand and advertising revenue may improve due to the scale we have achieved by combining all Publisher Partners into a single platform and a large and experienced sales organization. They also benefit from our membership marketing and management systems, which we believe will enhance their revenue. Our growth strategy is to continue adding new Publisher Partners in key verticals that management believes will expand the scale of unique users interacting on the Platform . Recent Developments On July 12, 2024, we entered into a Third Amendment to the Third Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement (“Amendment No. 3”), pursuant to which interest that was, or will be, due on December 31, 2023, March 31, 2024, June 30, 2024 and September 30, 2024 will now be due on or before December 31, 2024, as well as the interest otherwise due on December 31, 2024. The deferral is contingent on, among other things, no events of default occurring under its Bridge Notes and Debt (both as further described in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements in Note 10 and Note 11, and referred to as the “Loan Documents”) during the deferral period. On November 6, 2024, we received a letter from Renew Group Private Limited (“Renew”) confirming the Company is not currently in default under the Loan Documents due to the cure of the default identified in the forbearance letter. 33 Effective August 19, 2024, the Business Combination Agreement, dated November 5, 2023, as amended (the “Business Combination Agreement”), among us, Simplify, Bridge Media Networks, LLC, New Arena Holdco, Inc., Energy Merger Sub I, LLC and Energy Merger Sub II, LLC was terminated by mutual agreement. The Business Combination Agreement was terminated as a result of previously disclosed negotiations between us and Simplify around alternative structures or options to the transactions contemplated by the Business Combination Agreement. We incurred no penalties as a result of the early termination of the Business Combination Agreement. On August 19, 2024, we entered into the Amended Promissory Note, in connection with an amendment to our March 13, 2024 working capital loan agreement with Simplify, pursuant to which we have available up to $50,000 (originally $25,000) at ten percent (10.0%) interest rate per annum (the “Applicable Interest Rate”), payable monthly in arrears, with a maturity on December 1, 2026 (originally March 13, 2026). In connection with the Amended Promissory Note, on August 19, 2024, we and Simplify also entered into a common stock purchase agreement (the “Common Stock Purchase Agreement”), whereby $15,000 of outstanding indebtedness under the Simplify Loan was exchanged shares of our common stock. Impact of Macroeconomic Conditions Uncertainty in the global economy presents significant risks to our business. Increases in inflation, instability in the global banking system, geopolitical factors, including the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Israel and the responses thereto may have an adverse effect on our business. While we are closely monitoring the impact of the current macroeconomic conditions on all aspects of our business, the ultimate extent of the impact on our business remains highly uncertain and will depend on future developments and factors that continue to evolve. Most of these developments and factors are outside of our control and could exist for an extended period of time. As a result, we are subject to continuing risks and uncertainties. For additional information, see the sections titled “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on April 1, 2024 and in this Quarterly Report. Key Operating Metrics Our key operating metrics are: ● Revenue per page view (“RPM”) – represents the advertising revenue earned per 1,000 pageviews. It is calculated as our advertising revenue during a period divided by our total page views during that period and multiplied by $1,000; and ● Monthly average pageviews – represents the total number of pageviews in a given month or the average of each month’s pageviews in a fiscal quarter or year, which is calculated as the total number of page views recorded in a quarter or year divided by three months or 12 months, respectively. We monitor and review our key operating metrics as we believe that these metrics are relevant for our industry and specifically to us and to understanding our business. Moreover, they form the basis for trends informing certain predictions related to our financial condition. Our key operating metrics focus primarily on our digital advertising revenue, which has experienced significant growth in recent periods. As indicated in the Results of Operations section below, for the three months ended September 30, 2024, digital advertising revenue decreased by approximately 19%, as compared to the same period in fiscal 2023. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, digital advertising revenue decreased by approximately 6%, as compared to the same period in 2023. Management monitors and reviews these metrics because such metrics are readily measurable in real time and can provide valuable insight into the performance of and trends related to our digital advertising revenue and our overall business. We consider only those key operating metrics described here to be material to our financial condition, results of operations and future prospects. 34 For pricing indicators, we focus on RPM as it is the pricing metric most closely aligned with monthly average pageviews. RPM is an indicator of yield and pricing driven by both advertising density and demand from our advertisers. Monthly average pageviews are measured across all properties hosted on the Platform and provide us with insight into volume, engagement and effective page management and are therefore our primary measure of traffic. We utilize a third-party source, Google Analytics, to confirm this traffic data. As described above, these key operating metrics are critical for management as they provide insights into our digital advertising revenue generation and overall business performance. This information also provides feedback on the content on our website and its ability to attract and engage users, which allows us to make strategic business decisions designed to drive more users to read or view more of our content and generate higher advertising revenue across all properties hosted on the Platform. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, our RPM was $24.69 and $22.27, respectively. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, our RPM was $23.41 and $19.60, respectively. The 5% and 14% increases in RPM for the three and nine months reflect a significant increase in video advertising as a percentage of total digital advertising as digital video advertising is sold at a significantly higher price than digital display advertising. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, our monthly average pageviews were 301,721,996 and 332,312,606, respectively, as compared to 388,410,170 and 380,578,813 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023. The 22% and 13% decreases in monthly average pageviews reflect algorithmic changes at Google, Facebook and other platforms which subdued user click-throughs to the original content. All dollar figures presented below are in thousands unless otherwise stated. Liquidity and Capital Resources Going Concern Our accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that we will continue as a going concern, which contemplates the realization of assets and the liquidation of liabilities in the normal course of business. Our condensed consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might be necessary if we are unable to continue as a going concern. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, we incurred a net loss from continuing operations of $14,880, and as of September 30, 2024, had cash on hand of $5,773 and a working capital deficit of $209,596 . Management has evaluated our net loss from continuing operations and working capital deficit to determine if the significance of those conditions or events would limit our ability to meet our obligations when due, including under the Loan Documents and Simplify Loan (further details are provided in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements in Notes 10 and 12). In our evaluation, management determined that substantial doubt exists about our ability to continue as a going concern for a one-year period following the financial statement issuance date due to the net loss from continued operations and working capital deficit. Our financial results have improved in recent periods due to restructuring activities and implementation of a new operating structure. In addition, we plan to continue improving monthly financial performance through the reduction of costs and monthly cash requirements, maintain compliance with the terms of all outstanding debt agreements, and take actions to resolve current and potential future liabilities to alleviate the conditions that raise substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern, such as resolving pending litigation. However, there can be no assurance that we will be able to execute these plans. If we are unable to execute these plans, it could lead to selling assets and further reducing costs and cash requirements. Cash and Working Capital Facility As of September 30, 2024, our principal sources of liquidity consisted of cash of $5,773 and accounts receivable from continuing operations, net of our allowance for credit losses, of $25,858. In addition, as of September 30, 2024, we had $48,900 available for additional use under our working capital loan with Simplify. As of September 30, 2024, the outstanding balance of the Simplify working capital loan was $1,100. Our cash balance as of the issuance date of our accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements is $7,085. 35 Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements. Material Contractual Obligations We have material contractual obligations that arise in the normal course of business primarily consisting of employment contracts, consulting agreements, leases, liquidated damages, debt and related interest payments. Purchase obligations consist of contracts primarily related to merchandise, equipment, and third-party services, the majority of which are due in the next 12 months. See Notes 5, 8, 10, 11 and 12 in our accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for amounts outstanding as of September 30, 2024, related to leases, liquidated damages, working capital loan, bridge notes and debt, respectively. During 2022, we assumed the lease from Men’s Journal for office space in Carlsbad, California, that expires in March 2025, and we remain responsible for $720 over the lease term. The lease provides for fixed payments ranging from $89 to $94 over the remainder of the lease term, with an estimate of common expenses per month of $25 through the end of the lease term. Other than with respect to leases, as described in Note 5, Leases , in our accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements, there have been no material changes from the disclosures in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. Discontinued Operations In connection with our discontinued operations from the discontinuance of the Sports Illustrated media business, we recorded the termination fee liability of $45,000 and recognized a loss on impairment of assets of $39,391 for the nine months ended September 30, 2024. As a result of this discontinuance, our total liabilities from the discontinued operations were $98,378, partially offset by our total assets from discontinued operations of $528 as of September 30, 2024. Loss from our discontinued operations, net of tax, was $92,709 and $15,204 for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Further details are provided in our accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements in Note 2, Discontinued Operations, related to our discontinued operations and Note 19, Commitments and Contingencies, regarding our legal matters and an action filed by ABG Group against the Company and Manoj Bhargava on April 1, 2024. Working Capital Deficit We have financed our working capital requirements since inception through issuances of equity securities and various debt financings. Our working capital deficit as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 was as follows: As of September 30, 2024 December 31, 2023 Current assets $ 37,834 $ 90,399 Current liabilities (247,430 ) (236,021 ) Working capital deficit $ (209,596 ) $ (145,622 ) As of September 30, 2024, we had a working capital deficit of $209,596, as compared to $145,622 as of December 31, 2023, consisting of $37,834 in total current assets and $247,430 in total current liabilities. As of December 31, 2023, our working capital deficit consisted of $90,399 in total current assets and $236,021 in total current liabilities. 36 Our cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 consisted of the following: Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 Net cash used in operating activities $ (7,507 ) $ (22,265 ) Net cash used in investing activities (2,819 ) (3,467 ) Net cash provided by financing activities 6,815 18,649 Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash $ (3,511 ) $ (7,083 ) Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, end of period $ 5,773 $ 7,290 For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, net cash used in operating activities was $7,507, consisting primarily of $124,161 of cash paid to employees, Publisher Partners, expert contributors, suppliers, and vendors, and for revenue share arrangements, professional services, and $2,698 of cash paid for interest, offset by $119,352 of cash received from customers. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, net cash used in operating activities was $22,265, consisting primarily of $179,166 of cash paid to employees, Publisher Partners, expert contributors, suppliers, and vendors, and for revenue share arrangements, advance of royalty fees and professional services, and $10,835 of cash paid for interest, offset by $167,736 of cash received from customers. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, net cash used in investing activities was $2,819 consisting of (i) $54 for purchase of property and equipment and (ii) $2,765 for capitalized costs for our Platform. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, net cash used in investing activities was $3,467, consisting of $2,967 for capitalized costs for our Platform and $500 for the acquisition of a business. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, net cash provided by financing activities was $6,815, primarily consisting of (i) $561 for the payment of the contingent consideration, (ii) $20,027 from repayment of our line of credit with SLR Digital Finance LLC (“SLR”) and (iii) $497 for tax payments relating to the withholding of shares of common stock for certain employees, less (iv) $12,000 in net proceeds from the common stock private placement, and (v) $16,100 in net proceeds from our working capital loan with Simplify. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, net cash provided by financing activities was $18,649, consisting primarily of $11,500 (before a reduction for accrued offering costs of $167) in net proceeds from the public offering of common stock and $3,211 from borrowings under our SLR line of credit, $5,703 (excluding debt issuance costs of $100) in net proceeds from issuance of notes; offset by $1,423 tax payments relating to the withholding of shares of common stock for certain employees, and $75 payment of deferred cash payments. 37 Results of Continuing Operations Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 versus 2023 2024 2023 $ Change % Change Revenue $ 33,555 $ 36,996 $ (3,441 ) -9.3 % Cost of revenue 16,562 23,046 (6,484 ) -28.1 % Gross profit 16,993 13,950 3,043 21.8 % Operating expenses Selling and marketing 2,011 6,422 (4,411 ) -68.7 % General and administrative 6,023 10,940 (4,917 ) -44.9 % Depreciation and amortization 905 1,055 (150 ) -14.2 % Total operating expenses 8,939 18,417 (9,478 ) -51.5 % Income (loss) from operations 8,054 (4,467 ) 12,521 -280.3 % Total other expenses (3,236 ) (4,253 ) 1,017 -23.9 % Income (loss) before income taxes 4,818 (8,720 ) 13,538 -155.3 % Income taxes (40 ) (52 ) 12 -23.1 % Net income (loss) from continuing operations $ 4,778 $ (8,772 ) $ 13,550 $ -154.5 % Net income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax (822 ) (2,394 ) 1,572 $ -65.7 % Net income (loss) $ 3,956 $ (11,166 ) $ 15,122 $ -135.4 % For the three months ended September 30, 2024, the net income from continuing operations improved $13,550 to $4,778 as compared to our prior period net loss of $8,772. This improvement was primarily due to a $9,478 decrease in operating expenses and an increase in gross profit of $3,043. Revenue The following table sets forth revenue, cost of revenue, and gross profit: Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 versus 2023 2024 2023 $ Change % Change Revenue $ 33,555 $ 36,996 $ (3,441 ) -9.3 % Cost of revenue 16,562 23,046 (6,484 ) -28.1 % Gross profit $ 16,993 $ 13,950 $ 3,043 21.8 % For the three months ended September 30, 2024 we had gross profit of $16,993, as compared to $13,950 for the three months ended September 30, 2023, an increase of $3,043. Gross profit percentage for the three months ended September 30, 2024 was 50.6%, as compared to 37.7% for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in gross profit percentage was driven by a higher mix of revenue from sports partners, which receive a revenue share, resulting in Publisher Partner revenue share as a percentage of digital advertising revenue increasing to 20.8% for the three months ended September 30, 2024, as compared to 26.8% for the three months ended September 30, 2023. 38 The following table sets forth revenue by category: Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 versus 2023 2024 2023 $ Change % Change Digital revenue: Digital advertising $ 23,067 $ 28,251 $ (5,184 ) -18.3 % Digital subscriptions 1,807 2,962 (1,155 ) -39.0 % Licensing and syndication revenue 1,837 2,230 (393 ) -17.6 % Other digital revenue 6,320 1,088 5,232 480.9 % Total digital revenue 33,031 34,531 (1,500 ) -4.3 % Print revenue: Print advertising - 813 (813 ) -100.0 % Print subscriptions 524 1,652 (1,128 ) -68.3 % Total print revenue 524 2,465 (1,941 ) -78.7 % Total revenue $ 33,555 $ 36,996 $ (3,441 ) -9.3 % For the three months ended September 30, 2024, total revenue decreased $3,441, or a 9.3% decrease, to $33,555 from $36,996 for the three months ended September 30, 2023. This reflected a decrease in print revenue of $1,941 due primarily to the shutdown of Athlon Outdoor print operations, which was further reduced by a decrease of 4.3% in digital revenue of $1,500, primarily from decreases in our digital advertising of $5,184, and digital subscriptions of $1,155. The primary driver of the decrease in our digital revenue is an 18.3% decrease in our digital advertising revenue from $28,251 for the three months ended September 30, 2023 to $23,067 in the current year period. Other digital revenue increased by $5,232 to $6,320 for the three months ended September 30, 2024 driven by the expansion in our e-commerce revenue. Cost of Revenue The following table sets forth cost of revenue by category: Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 versus 2023 2024 2023 $ Change % Change Publisher Partner revenue share payments $ 4,799 $ 7,568 $ (2,769 ) -36.6 % Technology, Platform and software licensing fees 3,938 5,059 (1,121 ) -22.2 % Content and editorial expenses 6,169 6,882 (713 ) -10.4 % Printing, distribution and fulfillment costs 45 665 (620 ) -93.2 % Amortization of developed technology and platform development 1,474 2,191 (717 ) -32.7 % Stock-based compensation 131 724 (593 ) -81.9 % Other cost of revenue 6 (43 ) 49 -114.0 % Total cost of revenue $ 16,562 $ 23,046 $ (6,484 ) -28.1 % For the three months ended September 30, 2024, we recognized cost of revenue of $16,562 as compared to $23,046 for the three months ended September 30, 2023, which represents a decrease of $6,484. Cost of revenue was impacted by decreases in technology, Platform and software licensing fees of $1,121, Publisher Partner revenue share payments of $2,769, amortization of developed technology and platform development of $717, printing, distribution and fulfillment costs of $620 and stock-based compensation costs of $593. 39 Operating Expenses Selling and Marketing The following table sets forth selling and marketing expenses from continuing operations by category: Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 versus 2023 2024 2023 $ Change % Change Payroll and employee benefits of selling and marketing account management support teams $ 901 $ 3,692 $ (2,791 ) -75.6 % Stock-based compensation 34 289 (255 ) -88.2 % Professional marketing services 166 1,027 (861 ) -83.8 % Circulation costs 55 446 (391 ) -87.7 % Advertising costs 441 551 (110 ) -20.0 % Other selling and marketing expenses 414 417 (3 ) -0.7 % Total selling and marketing $ 2,011 $ 6,422 $ (4,411 ) -68.7 % For the three months ended September 30, 2024, we incurred selling and marketing costs of $2,011 as compared to $6,422 for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in selling and marketing costs of $4,411 is primarily related to decreases in payroll and employee benefits costs of $2,791, due to restructuring activities and reduction in direct sales workforce. In addition, decreases were noted in professional marketing services of $861, circulation costs of $391, and stock-based compensation of $255. General and Administrative The following table sets forth general and administrative expenses by category: Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 versus 2023 2024 2023 $ Change % Change Payroll and related expenses for executive and administrative personnel $ 1,580 $ 3,297 $ (1,717 ) -52.1 % Stock-based compensation 567 2,749 (2,182 ) -79.4 % Professional services, including accounting, legal and insurance 3,220 3,216 4 0.1 % Other general and administrative expenses 656 1,678 (1,022 ) -60.9 % Total general and administrative $ 6,023 $ 10,940 $ (4,917 ) -44.9 % For the three months ended September 30, 2024, we incurred general and administrative costs of $6,023 as compared to $10,940 for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The $4,917 decrease in general and administrative expenses is primarily due to decreases in stock-based compensation of $2,182, payroll and related expenses of $1,717, and other general and administrative expenses of $1,022. Other Expenses The following table sets forth other expenses: Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 versus 2023 2024 2023 $ Change % Change Change in fair value of contingent consideration $ - $ (60 ) $ 60 -100.0 % Interest expense, net (3,159 ) (4,042 ) 883 -21.8 % Liquidated damages (77 ) (151 ) 74 -49.0 % Total other expenses $ (3,236 ) $ (4,253 ) $ 1,017 -23.9 % 40 Change in Fair Value of Contingent Consideration . The change in fair value of contingent consideration for three months ended September 30, 2024 of $0, is due to the put option on our common stock in connection with the Fexy Studios acquisition no longer being outstanding as of September 30, 2024. Interest Expense . We incurred interest expense of $3,159 and $4,042 for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, a decrease of $883 from the prior period, as a result of our decrease in debt. Liquidated Damages . We recorded $77 of accrued interest on our liquidated damages payable for the three months ended September 30, 2024 primarily from the issuance of our convertible debentures, Series H convertible preferred stock, Series I convertible preferred stock, Series J convertible preferred stock and Series K convertible preferred stock in prior years. We recorded $151 of accrued interest on our liquidated damages payable for the three months ended September 30, 2023 primarily from issuance of the same securities as described above. Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 versus 2023 2024 2023 $ Change % Change Revenue $ 89,679 $ 99,486 $ (9,807 ) -9.9 % Cost of revenue 53,035 61,991 (8,956 ) -14.4 % Gross profit 36,644 37,495 (851 ) -2.3 % Operating expenses Selling and marketing 10,326 19,173 (8,847 ) -46.1 % General and administrative 24,790 35,516 (10,726 ) -30.2 % Depreciation and amortization 2,805 3,216 (411 ) -12.8 % Loss on disposition of assets 1,198 119 1,079 906.7 % Total operating expenses 39,119 58,024 (18,905 ) -32.6 % Loss from operations (2,475 ) (20,529 ) 18,054 -87.9 % Total other expenses (12,289 ) (14,149 ) 1,860 -13.1 % Loss before income taxes (14,764 ) (34,678 ) 19,914 -57.4 % Income taxes (116 ) (145 ) 29 -20.0 % Net loss from continuing operations (14,880 ) (34,823 ) 19,943 -57.3 % Net loss from discontinued operations, net of tax (92,709 ) (15,204 ) (77,505 ) 509.8 % Net loss $ (107,589 ) $ (50,027 ) $ (57,562 ) 115.1 % For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, the net loss from continuing operations improved $19,943 to $14,880, as compared to our prior period of $34,823. This improvement was primarily due to a $18,905 decrease in operating expenses that was partially offset by a decrease in gross profit of $851. Revenue The following table sets forth revenue, cost of revenue, and gross profit: Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 versus 2023 2024 2023 $ Change % Change Revenue $ 89,679 $ 99,486 $ (9,807 ) -9.9 % Cost of revenue 53,035 61,991 (8,956 ) -14.4 % Gross profit $ 36,644 $ 37,495 $ (851 ) -2.3 % For the nine months ended September 30, 2024 we had gross profit of $36,644, as compared to $37,495 for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, a decrease of $851. Gross profit percentage for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was 40.9%, as compared to 37.7% for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. 41 The increase in gross profit percentage was driven by a higher mix of revenue from sports partners, which receive a revenue share, resulting in Publisher Partner revenue share as a percentage of digital advertising revenue increasing to 23.0% for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, as compared to 24.6% for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The following table sets forth revenue by category: Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 versus 2023 2024 2023 $ Change % Change Digital revenue: Digital advertising $ 66,533 $ 70,363 $ (3,830 ) -5.4 % Digital subscriptions 5,511 9,809 (4,298 ) -43.8 % Licensing and syndication revenue 6,758 8,681 (1,923 ) -22.2 % Other digital revenue 9,327 2,858 6,469 226.3 % Total digital revenue 88,129 91,711 (3,582 ) -3.9 % Print revenue: Print advertising - 2,529 (2,529 ) -100.0 % Print subscriptions 1,550 5,246 (3,696 ) -70.5 % Total print revenue 1,550 7,775 (6,225 ) -80.1 % Total revenue $ 89,679 $ 99,486 $ (9,807 ) -9.9 % For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, total revenue decreased $9,807, or a 9.9% decrease, to $89,679 from $99,486 for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. This reflected a decrease in total print revenue of $6,225 due primarily to the shutdown of Athlon Outdoor print operations and a 3.9% decrease in digital revenue from $91,711 for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 to $88,129 for the nine months ended September 30, 2024. The primary drivers of the decrease in our digital revenue are a decrease in our digital subscriptions of $4,298, a $3,830 decrease in our digital advertising revenue, and a $1,923 decrease in licensing and syndication revenue. In addition, other digital revenue increased by $6,469 to $9,327 for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 driven by the expansion in our e-commerce revenue. Cost of Revenue The following table sets forth cost of revenue by category: Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 versus 2023 2024 2023 $ Change % Change Publisher Partner revenue share payments $ 15,291 $ 17,291 $ (2,000 ) -11.6 % Technology, Platform and software licensing fees 11,996 13,825 (1,829 ) -13.2 % Content and editorial expenses 19,728 18,217 1,511 8.3 % Printing, distribution and fulfillment costs 641 2,560 (1,919 ) -75.0 % Amortization of developed technology and platform development 4,530 6,883 (2,353 ) -34.2 % Stock-based compensation 787 3,515 (2,728 ) -77.6 % Other cost of revenue 62 (300 ) 362 -120.7 % Total cost of revenue $ 53,035 $ 61,991 $ (8,956 ) -14.4 % For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, we recognized cost of revenue of $53,035, as compared to $61,991 for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, which represents a decrease of $8,956. Cost of revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was impacted by decreases in printing, distribution and fulfillment costs of $1,919, stock-based compensation costs of $2,728, amortization of developed technology and platform development costs of $2,353, technology, Platform and software licensing fees of $1,829, and Publisher Partner revenue share payments of $2,000; partially offset by increases in content and editorial expenses of $1,511. 42 Operating Expenses Selling and Marketing The following table sets forth selling and marketing expenses from continuing operations by category: Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 versus 2023 2024 2023 $ Change % Change Payroll and employee benefits of selling and marketing account management support teams $ 6,410 $ 10,790 $ (4,380 ) -40.6 % Stock-based compensation 181 953 (772 ) -81.0 % Professional marketing services 406 3,050 (2,644 ) -86.7 % Circulation costs 255 987 (732 ) -74.2 % Subscription acquisition costs - 1 (1 ) -100.0 % Advertising costs 1,609 2,101 (492 ) -23.4 % Other selling and marketing expenses 1,465 1,291 174 13.5 % Total selling and marketing $ 10,326 $ 19,173 $ (8,847 ) -46.1 % For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, we incurred selling and marketing costs of $10,326, as compared to $19,173 for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in selling and marketing costs of $8,847 is primarily related to decreases in payroll and employee benefits costs of $4,380 due to restructuring activities and reduction in direct sales workforce. In addition, decreases were noted in professional marketing services of $2,644, advertising costs of $492, circulation costs of $732, and stock based compensation of $772; partially offset by other selling and marketing expenses of $174. General and Administrative The following table sets forth general and administrative expenses by category: Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 versus 2023 2024 2023 $ Change % Change Payroll and related expenses for executive and administrative personnel $ 9,561 $ 10,819 $ (1,258 ) -11.6 % Stock-based compensation 1,176 10,649 (9,473 ) -89.0 % Professional services, including accounting, legal and insurance 10,142 9,001 1,141 12.7 % Other general and administrative expenses 3,911 5,047 (1,136 ) -22.5 % Total general and administrative $ 24,790 $ 35,516 $ (10,726 ) -30.2 % For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, we incurred general and administrative costs of $24,790 as compared to $35,516 for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The $10,726 decrease in general and administrative expenses is primarily due to decreases in stock-based compensation of $9,473, payroll and related expenses of $1,258, and other general and administrative expenses of $1,136; partially offset by an increase in professional services, including accounting, legal and insurance of $1,141. Other Expenses The following table sets forth other expenses: Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 versus 2023 2024 2023 $ Change % Change Change in fair value of contingent consideration $ (313 ) $ (469 ) $ 156 -33.3 % Interest expense, net (11,747 ) (13,225 ) 1,478 -11.2 % Liquidated damages (229 ) (455 ) 226 -49.7 % Total other expenses $ (12,289 ) $ (14,149 ) $ 1,860 -13.1 % 43 Change in Fair Value of Contingent Consideration . The change in fair value of contingent consideration for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 of $313, represents the change in the put option on our common stock in connection with the Fexy Studios acquisition. Interest Expense . We incurred interest expense of $11,747 and $13,225 for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, a decrease of $1,478 from the prior period, as a result of interest rate changing. Liquidated Damages . We recorded $229 of accrued interest on our liquidated damages payable for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 primarily from the issuance of our convertible debentures, Series H convertible preferred stock, Series I convertible preferred stock, Series J convertible preferred stock and Series K convertible preferred stock in prior years. We recorded $455 of accrued interest on our liquidated damages payable for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 primarily from issuance of the same securities as described above. Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures We report our financial results in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”); however, management believes that certain non-GAAP financial measures provide users of our financial information with useful supplemental information that enables a better comparison of our performance across periods. We believe Adjusted EBITDA provides visibility to the underlying continuing operating performance by excluding the impact of certain items that are noncash in nature or not related to our core business operations. We calculate Adjusted EBITDA as net loss as adjusted for net loss from discontinued operations, with additional adjustments for (i) interest expense (net), (ii) income taxes, (iii) depreciation and amortization, (iv) stock-based compensation, (v) change in valuation of contingent consideration; (vi) liquidated damages, (vii) loss on impairment of assets, (viii) employee retention credit, and (ix) employee restructuring payments. Our non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to a similarly titled measure used by other companies, has limitations as an analytical tool, and should not be considered in isolation, or as a substitute for analysis of our operating results as reported under GAAP. Additionally, we do not consider our non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA as superior to, or a substitute for, the equivalent measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP. Some of the limitations are that Adjusted EBITDA: ● does not reflect interest expense, or the cash required to service our debt, which reduces cash available to us; ● does not reflect income tax provision, which is a noncash expense; ● does not reflect depreciation and amortization expense and, although this is a noncash expense, the assets being depreciated may have to be replaced in the future, increasing our cash requirements; ● does not reflect stock-based compensation and, therefore, does not include all of our compensation costs; ● does not reflect the change in valuation of contingent consideration, and, although this is a noncash income or expense, the change in the valuations each reporting period are not impacted by our actual business operations but is instead strongly tied to the change in the market value of our common stock; ● does not reflect liquidated damages and, therefore, does not include future cash requirements if we repay the liquidated damages in cash instead of shares of our common stock (which the investor would need to agree to); ● does not reflect any losses from the impairment of assets, which is a noncash operating expense; ● does not reflect the employee retention credits recorded by us for payroll related tax credits under the CARES Act; and ● does not reflect payments related to employee severance and employee restructuring changes for our former executives. 44 The following table presents a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net loss, which is the most directly comparable GAAP measure, for the periods indicated: Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Net income (loss) $ 3,956 $ (11,166 ) $ (107,589 ) $ (50,027 ) Net loss from discontinued operations 822 2,394 92,709 15,204 Net income (loss) from continued operations 4,778 (8,772 ) (14,880 ) (34,823 ) Add (deduct): Interest expense, net (1) 3,159 4,042 11,747 13,225 Income tax provision 40 52 116 145 Depreciation and amortization (2) 2,379 3,246 7,335 10,099 Stock-based compensation (3) 732 3,762 2,144 15,117 Change in fair value of contingent consideration (4) - 60 313 469 Liquidated damages (5) 77 151 229 455 Loss on impairment of assets (6) - - 1,198 119 Employee retention credit (7) - - - (3,890 ) Employee restructuring payments (8) (8 ) 605 5,776 3,253 Adjusted EBITDA $ 11,157 $ 3,416 $ 13,978 $ 4,169 (1) Interest expense is related to our capital structure and varies over time due to a variety of financing transactions. Interest expense includes $30 and $533 for amortization of debt discounts for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, as presented in our condensed consolidated statements of cash flows, which are noncash items. Interest expense includes $626 and $2,178 for amortization of debt discounts for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Investors should note that interest expense will recur in future periods. (2) Depreciation and amortization related to our developed technology and Platform is included within cost of revenues of $1,474 and $2,191 for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and depreciation and amortization is included within operating expenses of $905 and $1,055 for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Depreciation and amortization related to our developed technology and Platform is included within cost of revenues of $4,530 and $6,883 for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and depreciation and amortization is included within operating expenses of $2,805 and $3,216 for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. We believe (i) the amount of depreciation and amortization expense in any specific period may not directly correlate to the underlying performance of our business operations and (ii) such expenses can vary significantly between periods as a result of new acquisitions and full amortization of previously acquired tangible and intangible assets. Investors should note that the use of tangible and intangible assets contributed to revenue in the periods presented and will contribute to future revenue generation and should also note that such expense will recur in future periods. (3) Stock-based compensation represents noncash costs arise from the grant of stock-based awards to employees, consultants and directors. We believe that excluding the effect of stock-based compensation from Adjusted EBITDA assists management and investors in making period-to-period comparisons in our operating performance because (i) the amount of such expenses in any specific period may not directly correlate to the underlying performance of our business operations, and (ii) such expenses can vary significantly between periods as a result of the timing of grants of new stock-based awards, including grants in connection with acquisitions. Additionally, we believe that excluding stock-based compensation from Adjusted EBITDA assists management and investors in making meaningful comparisons between our operating performance and the operating performance of other companies that may use different forms of employee compensation or different valuation methodologies for their stock-based compensation. Investors should note that stock-based compensation is a key incentive offered to employees whose efforts contributed to the operating results in the periods presented and are expected to contribute to operating results in future periods. Investors should also note that such expenses will recur in the future. (4) Change in fair value of contingent consideration represents the change in the put option on our common stock in connection with the Fexy Studios acquisition. (5) Liquidated damages (or interest expense related to accrued liquidated damages) represents amounts we owe to certain of our investors in private placements offerings conducted in fiscal years 2018 through 2020, pursuant to which we agreed to certain covenants in the respective securities purchase agreements and registration rights agreements, including the filing of resale registration statements and becoming current in our reporting obligations, which we were not able to timely meet. (6) Loss on impairment of assets represents certain assets that are no longer useful. (7) Employee retention credit represents payroll related tax credits under the CARES Act. (8) Employee restructuring payments represents severance payments to employees under employer restructuring arrangements and payments for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. 45 Critical Accounting Estimates Our management’s discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our condensed consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. In preparing the condensed consolidated financial statements, we make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, stockholders’ equity, revenue, expenses, and related disclosures. We re-evaluate our estimates on an on-going basis. Our estimates are based on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Because of the uncertainty inherent in these matters, actual results may differ from these estimates and could differ based upon other assumptions or conditions. Except as described in Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies , of the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, there have been no material changes to our critical accounting policies and estimates as compared to the critical accounting policies and estimates disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 that was filed with the SEC on April 1, 2024. Recent Accounting Pronouncements See Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies , of the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for a discussion about new accounting pronouncements adopted as of the date of this report. ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK Not applicable to a “smaller reporting company” as defined in Item 10(f)(1) of SEC Regulation S-K. ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining a system of disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that is designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports we file or submit 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 by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the issuer’s management, including its principal executive officer(s) and principal financial officer(s), or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In accordance with Exchange Act Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15, an evaluation was completed under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report. Based on that evaluation, our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of September 30, 2024 in providing reasonable assurance that the information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act was recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting There have not been any changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that occurred during the three months ended September 30, 2024 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. Inherent Limitations on the Effectiveness of Controls The effectiveness of any system of internal control over financial reporting, including ours, is subject to inherent limitations, including the exercise of judgment in designing, implementing, operating, and evaluating the controls and procedures, and the inability to eliminate misconduct completely. Accordingly, in designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any system of internal control over financial reporting, including ours, no matter how well designed and operated, can only provide reasonable, not absolute assurance of achieving the desired control objectives. In addition, the design of disclosure controls and procedures must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and that management is required to apply its judgment in evaluating the benefits of possible controls and procedures relative to their costs. Projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. We intend to continue to monitor and upgrade our internal controls as necessary or appropriate for our business but cannot assure you that such improvements will be sufficient to provide us with effective internal control over financial reporting. 46 PART II - OTHER INFORMATION ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS From time to time, we may be subject to claims and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business. Except as described in Note 19, Commitments and Contingencies of the notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, we are not currently subject to any pending or threatened legal proceedings that we believe would reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS There are numerous factors that affect our business and operating results, many of which are beyond our control. The risk factors described in Part I, “Item IA. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on April 1, 2024 should be carefully considered, together with the other information contained or incorporated by reference in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and in our other filings with SEC in connection with evaluating us, our business and the forward-looking statements contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Additional risks and uncertainties not known to us at present, or that we currently deem immaterial, may affect us. The occurrence of any of these known or unknown risks could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. All dollar figures presented below are in thousands unless otherwise stated. Our license agreement to operate the Sports Illustrated media business was terminated by the licensor, which may materially harm our business, operating results and financial condition. As alleged in ABG’s notice of termination, ABG claims that we failed to make a quarterly payment due to ABG pursuant to the Licensing Agreement of $3,750, on January 18, 2024, ABG notified us of the termination of the Licensing Agreement, effective immediately, in accordance with its rights under the Licensing Agreement. As stated in the notice of termination, ABG believes that a fee of $45,000 became immediately due and payable by us to ABG pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Licensing Agreement. In addition, upon termination of the Licensing Agreement, all outstanding and unvested warrants to purchase shares of our common stock issued to ABG in connection with the Licensing Agreement became immediately vested and exercisable. On March 18, 2024, ABG announced it had reached an agreement in principle with a third party to become the new operator of the Sports Illustrated media business. On April 1, 2024, ABG Group filed an action against us and Manoj Bhargava, the former interim CEO of the Company and a principal stockholder, alleging, among other things, breach of contract in the United States District Court of the Southern District of New York seeking damages in the amount of $48,750 ($3,750 royalty fee liability and $45,000 termination fee liability as reflected in current liabilities from discontinued operations). On June 7, 2024, we filed a response denying ABG Group’s alleged breach of contract action and filed a counterclaim against ABG Group and Minute Media, Inc. alleging, among other things, unfair competition, misappropriation of trade secrets, unjust enrichment, breach of contract and tortious interference with contract. On August 2, 2024, ABG Group filed an amended complaint which we responded to on August 22, 2024 and subsequently filed counterclaims against ABG Group and Sportority, Inc. d/b/a Minute Media. A settlement conference is scheduled for December 4, 2024. The loss of the rights to operate the SI Business, in addition to the alleged and disputed termination payments that are due following termination of the Licensing Agreement, could harm our competitiveness in our industry, damage any goodwill we may have generated, and otherwise have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition. Any subsequent rebranding efforts we may undertake may require significant resources and expenses and may affect our ability to attract and retain customers, all of which may have a material adverse effect on our business, contracts, financial condition, operating results, liquidity and prospects. 47 We defaulted on certain covenants included in our debt agreements that could result in the acceleration of the related debt or the exercise of other remedies. On December 29, 2023, we failed to make the interest payment due pursuant to the Loan Documents in the amount of $2,797, resulting in a default under the Loan Documents. On January 5, 2024, we entered into the forbearance letter (as updated from time-to-time the “forbearance letter”) with Renew, the lender under the Loan Documents, pursuant to which Renew agreed to a forbearance period through March 29, 2024, subsequently extended to September 30, 2024, while reserving its rights and remedies. The default under the Loan Documents, as well as Arena’s alleged failure to make a quarterly payment due to ABG pursuant to the Licensing Agreement, resulted in an Event of Default under the Arena Credit Agreement with SLR. On March 13, 2024, Arena entered into the Loan Documents, with Simplify which provided for up to $25,000 of borrowings to be used for working capital and general corporate purposes. Upon the closing of the Simplify Loan (as further described in Note 12, Simplify Loan , in our accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements), Arena borrowed $7,748, of which $3,448 was used to repay the outstanding loan balance, accrued interest, certain fees and contingency reserves under the Arena Credit Agreement. On August 19, 2024, we entered into the Amended Promissory Note which increased available borrowings to $50,000 and extended the maturity date of the promissory note to December 1, 2026 (as further described in Note 12, Simplify Loan, in our accompanying condensed financial statements). On July 12, 2024, we entered into Amendment No. 3 which further deferred the accrued interest due date to December 31, 2024 (as further described under the heading Loan Documents in Note 18). On November 6, 2024, we received a letter from Renew confirming we are not currently in default under the Loan Documents due to the default identified in the forbearance letter (as further described under the heading Update to Renew Forbearance in Note 20). The outstanding principal on the Loan Documents was $110,691 as of September 30, 2024. The indirect owner of Renew also has an indirect non-controlling interest in Simplify. Borrowings under the Loan Documents are secured by substantially all of our assets. Upon an event of default, Renew can declare all outstanding borrowings under the Loan Documents, together with accrued and unpaid interest and fees, to be immediately due and payable. In addition, Simplify could declare all outstanding borrowings under the Loan Documents together with accrued and unpaid interest and fees, to be immediately due and payable and, subject to the terms of the intercreditor agreement between Renew and Simplify, foreclose on our assets. Any of these actions would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations and could lead to selling assets, cutting costs, reducing cash requirements, filing bankruptcy or ceasing operations. The market in which we participate is intensely competitive, and if we do not compete effectively, our operating results could be harmed. The digital media industry is fragmented and highly competitive. There are many players in the digital media market, many with greater name recognition and financial resources, which may give them a competitive advantage. The general business of online media, combined with some level or method of leveraging community attracts many potential entrants, and in the future, there may be strong competitors that will compete with us in general or in selected markets. These and other companies may be better financed and be able to develop their markets more quickly and penetrate those markets more effectively. We expect competition to intensify in the future. All of this could adversely affect our revenues and operating results. Our financial condition raises substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a “going concern” through one year from the date of the issuance of the financial statements contained herein if we are unable to rectify the recurrence of our net losses and reduce our working deficit. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, we incurred a net loss from continuing operations of $14,880, and as of September 30, 2024, had cash on hand of $5,773 and a working capital deficit of $209,596. Management has evaluated our net loss from continuing operations and working capital deficit to determine if the significance of those conditions or events would limit our ability to meet our obligations when due, including under the Loan Documents and Simplify Loan. In its evaluation, management determined that substantial doubt exists about our ability to continue as a going concern for a one-year period following the financial statement issuance date due to the net loss from continued operations and working capital deficit. 48 O ur financial results have improved in recent periods due to restructuring activities and implementation of a new operating structure. In addition, we plan to continue improving monthly financial performance through the reduction of costs and monthly cash requirements, maintain compliance with the terms of all outstanding debt agreements, and take actions to resolve current and potential future liabilities to alleviate the conditions that raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern, such as resolving pending litigation. However, there can be no assurance that we will be able to execute these plans. If we are unable to execute these plans, it could lead to selling assets and further reducing costs and cash requirements. Cyber-attacks and other security threats and disruptions could have a material adverse effect on our business. As a tech-powered media company, we face cybersecurity threats, such as ransomware and denial-of-service, and attacks on technical infrastructure. Our customers and suppliers face similar cybersecurity threats, and a cybersecurity incident impacting us or any of these entities could materially adversely affect our operations, performance and results of operations. The sophistication of threats continues to evolve and grow, including the risk associated with the use of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing, for nefarious purposes. In addition to cybersecurity threats, we face threats to the security of our systems and employees from terrorist acts, sabotage or other disruptions, any of which could adversely affect our business. The improper conduct of our employees or others working on behalf of us who have access to confidential or sensitive information could also adversely affect our business and reputation. Our customers (including sites that we operate for our customers) and suppliers experience similar security threats. If we are unable to protect sensitive information, including complying with evolving information security, data protection and privacy regulations, our customers or governmental authorities could investigate the adequacy of our threat mitigation and detection processes and procedures; and could bring actions against us for noncompliance with applicable laws and regulations. Moreover, depending on the severity of an incident, our customers’ data, our employees’ data, our intellectual property (including trade secrets and research, development and engineering know-how), and other third party data (such as suppliers) could be compromised, which could adversely affect our business. Products and services we provide to customers also carry cybersecurity risks, including risks that they could be breached or fail to detect, prevent or combat attacks, which could result in losses to our customers and claims against us, and could harm our relationships with our customers and financial results. Given the persistence, sophistication, volume and novelty of threats we face, we may not be successful in preventing or mitigating an attack that could have a material adverse effect on us and the costs related to cyber or other security threats or disruptions may not be fully insured or indemnified by other means. Our suppliers face similar security threats and an incident at one of these entities could adversely impact our business. These entities are typically outside our control and may have access to our information with varying levels of security and cybersecurity resources, expertise, safeguards and capabilities. Adversaries actively seek to exploit security and cybersecurity weaknesses in our supply chain. Breaches in our supply chain could in the future compromise our data and adversely affect customer deliverables. We also must rely on our supply chain for adequately detecting and reporting cyber incidents, which could affect our ability to report or respond to cybersecurity incidents effectively or in a timely manner. Failures by our suppliers could result in damages to you and have an adverse effect on our business and operations. We are currently out of compliance with the continued listing standards of the NYSE American. Our failure to regain compliance with the continued listing standards may result in the delisting of our common stock. Our common stock is listed on the NYSE American and such listing is contingent on our compliance with the NYSE American’s standards for continued listing, including requirements relating to maintaining minimum stockholders’ equity. On October 2, 2024, we received a notification (“Letter”) from the NYSE American stating that we are not in compliance with the minimum stockholders’ equity requirements of Sections 1003(a)(i), 1003(a)(ii) and 1003(a)(iii) of the NYSE American Company Guide (the “Company Guide”) requiring stockholders’ equity of (i) $2.0 million or more if we have reported losses from continuing operations and/or net losses in two of its three most recent fiscal years, (ii) $4.0 million or more if we have reported losses from continuing operations and/or net losses in three of the four most recent fiscal years and (iii) $6.0 million or more if we have reported losses from continuing operations and/or net losses in its five most recent fiscal years, respectively. As of June 30, 2024, we had a stockholders’ deficit of $157.2 million and has had losses in the most recent five fiscal years ended December 31, 2023. 49 As a result of this non-compliance, we became subject to the procedures and requirements set forth in Section 1009 of the Company Guide and had until November 1, 2024 to submit a plan (the “Plan”) of actions we have taken or will take to regain compliance with the continued listing standards by April 2, 2026, which is 18-months from receipt of the Letter (“Cure Period”). The Plan we submitted on November 1, 2024 is under review by the NYSE American as of the date of filing. If the NYSE American accepts the Plan, we will be able to continue our NYSE American listing during the Plan period and will be subject to periodic reviews including quarterly monitoring for compliance with the Plan until we have regained compliance. If the Plan is not accepted by the NYSE American, the Letter states that delisting proceedings will commence. We may appeal a staff delisting determination in accordance with Section 1010 and Part 12 of the Company Guide. We intend to regain compliance and the Letter has no immediate effect on the listing or trading of our common stock on the NYSE American and if the Plan is approved and adhered to, during the Cure Period. Our receipt of the Letter from the NYSE American does not affect our business, operations or reporting requirements with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Although we intend to regain compliance with the continued listing requirements prior to the end of the Cure Period, we may be unable to do so. If delisting proceedings are commenced, the NYSE American rules permit us to appeal a staff delisting determination; however, there can be no assurance that the outcome of any such appeal would be in our favor. If NYSE American delists our common stock from trading on its exchange due to our failure to meet the NYSE American’s continued listing standards, we and our security holders could face significant material adverse consequences, including, but not limited to, a lack of trading market for our common stock, reduced liquidity, decreased analyst coverage of our common stock and an inability for us to obtain additional financing to fund our operations. ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS None. ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES None. ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES Not applicable. ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION None. 50 ITEM 6. EXHIBITS The following documents are filed as part of this Quarterly Report: Exhibit Number Description of Document 2.1 Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of March 13, 2018, by and among the Company, HP Acquisition Co., Inc., HubPages, Inc., and Paul Edmondson as the securityholder representative, which was filed as Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 19, 2018. 2.2 Amendment to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 25, 2018, by and among TheMaven, Inc., HP Acquisition Co., Inc., HubPages, Inc., and Paul Edmondson as the securityholder representative, which was filed as Exhibit 2.2 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on January 8, 2021. 2.3 Second Amendment to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 1, 2018, by and among TheMaven, Inc., HP Acquisition Co., Inc., HubPages, Inc., and Paul Edmondson as the securityholder representative, which was filed as Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed on June 4, 2018. 2.4 Third Amendment to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of May 31, 2019, by and among TheMaven, Inc., HP Acquisition Co., Inc., HubPages, Inc., and Paul Edmondson as the securityholder representative, which was filed as Exhibit 2.4 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on January 8, 2021. 2.5 Fourth Amendment to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of December 15, 2020, by and among TheMaven, Inc., HP Acquisition Co., Inc., HubPages, Inc., and Paul Edmondson as the securityholder representative, which was filed as Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 21, 2020. 2.6 Amended and Restated Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of August 4, 2018, by and among the Company, Maven Coalition, Inc., and Say Media, Inc., which was filed as Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 9, 2018. 2.7 Amendment to Amended and Restated Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of August 24, 2018, by and among the Company, Maven Coalition, Inc., and Say Media, Inc., which was filed as Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 29, 2018. 2.8 Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 12, 2018, by and among the Company, SM Acquisition Co., Inc., Say Media, Inc., and Matt Sanchez as the Securityholder Representative, which was filed as Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 17, 2018. 2.9 Amendment to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 17, 2018, by and among the Company, SM Acquisition Co., Inc., Say Media, Inc., and Matt Sanchez as the Securityholder Representative, which was filed as Exhibit 10.2 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 17, 2018. 2.10 Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 11, 2019, by and among the Company, TST Acquisition Co., Inc., and TheStreet, Inc., which was filed as Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 12, 2019. 2.11 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated December 7, 2022, by and among The Arena Media Brands, LLC, Weider Publications, LLC and A360 Media, LLC, which was filed as Exhibit 2.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 20, 2022. 2.12 Business Combination Agreement, dated as of November 5, 2023, among The Arena Group Holdings, Inc., Simplify Inventions, LLC, Bridge Media Networks, LLC, New Arena Holdco, Inc., Energy Merger Sub I, LLC and Energy Merger Sub II, which was filed as Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 7, 2023. 2.13 Amendment No. 1 to Business Combination Agreement, dated December 1, 2023, by and between the Company, Simplify Inventions, LLC, Bridge Media Networks, LLC, New Arena Holdco, Inc., Energy Merger Sub I, LLC and Energy Merger Sub II, which was filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 5, 2023. 2.14 Second Amendment to the Business Combination Agreement dated November 5, 2023, among the Company, Simplify Inventions, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, Bridge Media Networks, LLC, a Michigan limited liability company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Simplify, New Arena Holdco, Inc., a Delaware corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of Arena, Energy Merger Sub I, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Newco, and Energy Merger Sub II, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Newco, dated July 12, 2024, which was filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 17, 2024. 3.1 Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant, which was filed as Exhibit 3.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 13, 2021. 3.2 Second Amended and Restated Bylaws, which was filed as Exhibit 3.2 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 13, 2021. 3.3 Certificate of Elimination of Series F Convertible Preferred Stock as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on September 7, 2021, which was filed as Exhibit 3.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 13, 2021. 51 3.4 Certificate of Elimination of Series I Convertible Preferred Stock as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on September 7, 2021, which was filed as Exhibit 3.2 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 13, 2021. 3.5 Certificate of Elimination of Series J Convertible Preferred Stock as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on September 7, 2021, which was filed as Exhibit 3.3 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 13, 2021. 3.6 Certificate of Elimination of Series K Convertible Preferred Stock as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on September 7, 2021, which was filed as Exhibit 3.4 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 13, 2021. 3.7 Certificate of Amendment as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on January 20, 2022, which was filed Exhibit 3.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 26, 2022. 3.8 Certificate of Correction of the Certificate of Amendment of the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on January 26, 2022, which was filed as Exhibit 3.2 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 26, 2022. 3.9 Certificate of Correction of the Certificate of Amendment of the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on February 3, 2022, which was filed as Exhibit 3.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed February 9, 2022. 3.10 Certificate of Amendment to the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, which was filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 2, 2023. 4.1 Specimen Common Stock Certificate, which was filed as Exhibit 4.3 to Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form SB-2/A (Registration No. 333-48040) on September 23, 1996. 4.2 Common Stock Purchase Warrant issued on June 6, 2018 to L2 Capital, LLC, which was filed as Exhibit 10.3 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 12, 2018. 4.3 Common Stock Purchase Warrant issued on June 15, 2018 to Strome Mezzanine Fund LP, which was filed as Exhibit 10.4 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 21, 2018. 4.4 Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant issued on October 18, 2018, which was filed as Exhibit 10.3 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 24, 2018. 4.5 Form of Warrant for Channel Partners Program, which was filed as Exhibit 4.3 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016. 4.6 Form of MDB Warrant issued in connection with the Share Exchange Agreement, which was filed as Exhibit 10.3 to our Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on November 7, 2016. 4.7 Common Stock Purchase Warrant (exercise price $0.42 per share), dated June 14, 2019, issued to ABG-SI LLC, which was filed as Exhibit 4.16 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed on August 16, 2021. 4.8 Common Stock Purchase Warrant (exercise price $0.84 per share), dated June 14, 2019, issued to ABG-SI LLC, which was filed as Exhibit 4.17 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on January 8, 2021. 4.9 Form of 2019 Warrant for Channel Partners Program, which was filed as Exhibit 4.18 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on April 9, 2021. 4.10 Form of 2020 Warrant for Channel Partners Program, which was filed as Exhibit 4.19 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on April 9, 2021. 4.18 Form of Bridge Notes. which was filed as Exhibit 4.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 20, 2022. 4.19 Form of 2023 Notes, which was filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on November 14, 2023. 10.1 Amendment No. 3 to the Third Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement dated as of December 15, 2022 (as amended by that certain Amendment No. 1 to Third Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of August 14, 2023 and as further amended by that certain Amendment No. 2 to Third Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of December 1, 2023), by and among the Company, the Guarantors party thereto, the Purchasers party thereto and Renew Group Private Limited, in its capacity as agent for the Purchasers, dated July 12, 2024, which was filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 17, 2024. 10.2 Employment Agreement between The Arena Group Holdings, Inc. and Geoffrey Wait dated effective August 6, 2024, which was filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 12, 2024. 10.3 Amendment No. 1 to Loan Documents between the Company and Simplify Inventions, LLC dated August 19, 2024, which was filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 23, 2024. 10.4 Amended and Restated Promissory Note issued by the Company to Simplify Inventions, LLC dated August 19, 2024 , which was filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 23, 2024. 10.5 Common Stock Purchase Agreement between the Company and Simplify Inventions, LLC dated August 19, 2024 , which was filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 23, 2024. 31.1* Chief Executive Officer’s Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 31.2* Principal Financial Officer’s Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 32.1# Chief Executive Officer’s Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 32.2# Principal Financial Officer’s Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 101.INS* Inline XBRL Instance Document (the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document) 101.SCH* Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document 101.CAL* Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document 101.LAB* Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document * Filed herewith. # This certification is deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), or otherwise subject to the liability of that section, nor shall it be deemed incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act. 52 SIGNATURES In accordance with the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized. The Arena Group Holdings, Inc. Date: November 14, 2024 By: /s/ SARA SILVERSTEIN Sara Silverstein Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) Date: November 14, 2024 By: /s/ GEOFFREY WAIT Geoffrey Wait Principal Financial Officer 53