UNITED
STATES
SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington,
D.C. 20549
FORM
10-Q
(Mark
One)
☒
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For
the quarterly period ended September 30, 2023
or
☐
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For
the transition period from ___________ to ___________
Commission
File No. 001-40729
DATCHAT,
INC.
(Exact
name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Nevada 47-2502264
(State or Other Jurisdiction IRS Employer
of Organization) Identification Number
204 Neilson Street ,
New Brunswick , NJ 08901
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)
Registrant’s
telephone number, including area code: (732) 374-3529
Securities
registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act:
Title of each class Trading Symbol(s) Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share DATS The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC
Series A Warrants, each warrant exercisable for one share of Common Stock at an exercise price of $4.98 per share DATSW The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC
Indicate
by checkmark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the 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 Regulations S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for shorter period that the registrant was
required to submit and post 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 checkmark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☒
As
of November 9, 2023, there were 2,103,321 shares of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, issued and outstanding.
DATCHAT,
INC.
FORM
10-Q
September
30, 2023
INDEX
Page
PART
I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item
1.
Financial
Statements
1
Consolidated
Balance Sheets - As of September 30, 2023 (unaudited) and December 31, 2022
1
Consolidated
Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss - For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 (unaudited)
2
Consolidated
Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity – For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 (unaudited)
3
Consolidated
Statements of Cash Flows - For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 (unaudited)
5
Condensed
Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements
6
Item
2.
Management’s
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
22
Item
3.
Quantitative
and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
28
Item
4.
Controls
and Procedures
28
PART
II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item
1.
Legal
Proceedings
29
Item
1A.
Risk
Factors
29
Item
2.
Unregistered
Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
29
Item
3.
Defaults
Upon Senior Securities
30
Item
4.
Mine
Safety Disclosures
30
Item
5.
Other
Information
30
Item
6.
Exhibits
30
Signatures
31
i
CAUTIONARY
NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q 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”). Any statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q about our expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or
future events or performance are not historical facts and are forward-looking statements. These statements are often, but not always,
made through the use of words or phrases such as “believe,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,”
“estimate,” “intend,” “plan” and “would.” For example, statements concerning financial
condition, possible or assumed future results of operations, growth opportunities, industry ranking, plans and objectives of management,
markets for our common stock and future management and organizational structure are all forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements
are not guarantees of performance. They involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions that may cause actual results,
levels of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from any results, levels of activity, performance or achievements
expressed or implied by any forward-looking statement.
Any
forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by reference to the risk factors discussed throughout our Annual Report on
Form 10-K as filed with the SEC on March 31, 2023. Some of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to
differ materially from estimates or projections contained in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to:
●
our
business strategies;
●
the
timing of regulatory submissions;
●
our
ability to obtain and maintain regulatory approval of our existing product candidates and any other product candidates we may develop,
and the labeling under any approval we may obtain;
●
risks
relating to the timing and costs of clinical trials and the timing and costs of other expenses;
●
risks
related to market acceptance of products;
●
intellectual
property risks;
●
risks
associated to our reliance on third party organizations;
●
our
competitive position;
●
our
industry environment;
●
our
anticipated financial and operating results, including anticipated sources of revenues;
●
assumptions
regarding the size of the available market, benefits of our products, product pricing and timing of product launches;
●
management’s
expectation with respect to future acquisitions;
●
statements
regarding our goals, intentions, plans and expectations, including the introduction of new products and markets;
●
general business and economic conditions, such as inflationary pressures, geopolitical conditions including, but not limited to, the conflict
between Russia and the Ukraine, the conflict between Israel and Gaza, and the effects and duration of outbreaks of public health emergencies,
such as COVID-19; and
●
our
cash needs and financing plans.
The
foregoing list sets forth some, but not all, of the factors that could affect our ability to achieve results described in any forward-looking
statements. You should read this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and the documents that we reference herein and have filed as exhibits
our Annual Report on Form 10-K, completely and with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from
what we expect. You should assume that the information appearing in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q is accurate as of the date hereof.
Because the risk factors referred to in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as filed with the SEC on March 31, 2023, could cause actual results
or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by us or on our behalf, you should not place
undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Further, any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made,
and except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances
after the date on which the statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. New factors emerge from time to time,
and it is not possible for us to predict which factors will arise. In addition, we cannot assess the impact of each factor on our business
or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any
forward-looking statements. We qualify all the information presented in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and particularly our forward-looking
statements, by these cautionary statements.
ii
PART
I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM
1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED
BALANCE SHEETS
September 30,
December 31,
2023
2022
(Unaudited)
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash
and cash equivalents
$ 672,086
$ 1,732,956
Short-term
investments, at fair value
6,826,759
11,007,997
Accounts
receivable
142
384
Prepaid
expenses
277,928
134,752
Total
Current Assets
7,776,915
12,876,089
OTHER
ASSETS:
Property
and equipment, net
108,492
79,694
Digital
currencies and other digital assets
-
23,381
Operating
lease right-of-use asset, net
90,254
134,526
Total
Other Assets
198,746
237,601
Total
Assets
$ 7,975,661
$ 13,113,690
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
CURRENT
LIABILITIES:
Accounts
payable and accrued expenses
$ 390,317
$ 404,600
Operating
lease liability, current portion
79,354
67,338
Contract
liabilities
78
186
Due
to related party
-
1,315
Total
Current Liabilities
469,749
473,439
LONG-TERM
LIABILITIES:
Operating
lease liability, less current portion
22,851
83,675
Total
Long-Term Liabilities
22,851
83,675
Total
Liabilities
492,600
557,114
Commitments
and Contingencies (Note 8)
STOCKHOLDERS’
EQUITY:
Preferred stock ($ 0.0001 par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized)
Series A Preferred stock ($ 0.0001 Par Value; 1 Share designated; none issued and outstanding on September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022)
-
-
Series B Preferred stock ($ 0.0001 Par Value; 2,000,000 Share designated; 2,000,000 and none issued and outstanding on September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively)
200
-
Common stock ($ 0.0001 par value; 18,000,000 shares authorized; 2,094,285 and 2,059,717 shares issued and outstanding on September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively)
209
206
Common stock to be issued ( 139 shares on September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022)
-
-
Additional
paid-in capital
54,551,840
52,285,488
Treasury stock, at cost ( 66,944 shares on September 30, 2023)
( 397,969 )
-
Accumulated
other comprehensive gain
108,923
-
Accumulated
deficit
( 46,780,142 )
( 39,729,118 )
Total
Stockholders’ Equity
7,483,061
12,556,576
Total
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
$ 7,975,661
$ 13,113,690
See
accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.
1
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
(Unaudited)
For the Three Months Ended
For the Nine Months Ended
September 30,
September 30,
2023
2022
2023
2022
NET
REVENUES
$ 175
$ 3,540
$ 501
$ 42,296
OPERATING
EXPENSES:
Compensation
and related expenses
1,247,302
1,639,886
4,177,032
5,015,827
Marketing
and advertising expenses
219,008
65,181
379,410
645,825
Professional
and consulting expenses
483,319
482,338
1,060,396
1,947,535
Research
and development expense
380,017
258,957
1,064,049
258,957
General
and administrative expenses
212,680
232,064
651,461
712,103
Impairment
loss on digital currencies and other digital assets
-
7,024
23,381
91,204
Total
operating expenses
2,542,326
2,685,450
7,355,729
8,671,451
LOSS
FROM OPERATIONS
( 2,542,151 )
( 2,681,910 )
( 7,355,228 )
( 8,629,155 )
OTHER
INCOME (EXPENSES):
Interest
income, net
206
4,659
6,058
8,077
Gain
on initial consolidation of variable interest entities
-
-
106,538
-
Foreign
currency loss
( 36 )
-
( 102 )
-
Realized
gain on short-term investments
177,401
9,702
239,382
9,702
Unrealized
gain (loss) on short-term investments
-
10,844
( 47,672 )
7,113
Total
other income (expenses), net
177,571
25,205
304,204
24,892
NET
LOSS
$ ( 2,364,580 )
$ ( 2,656,705 )
$ ( 7,051,024 )
$ ( 8,604,263 )
COMPREHENSIVE
LOSS:
Net
loss
$ ( 2,364,580 )
$ ( 2,656,705 )
$ ( 7,051,024 )
$ ( 8,604,263 )
Other
comprehensive (loss) gain:
Unrealized
(loss) gain on short-term investments
( 88,681 )
-
108,889
-
Unrealized
foreign currency translation (loss) gain
( 724 )
-
34
-
Comprehensive
loss
$ ( 2,453,985 )
$ ( 2,656,705 )
$ ( 6,942,101 )
$ ( 8,604,263 )
NET LOSS PER COMMON SHARE:
Basic and diluted
$ ( 1.13 )
$ ( 1.29 )
$ ( 3.40 )
$ ( 4.32 )
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING:
Basic and diluted
2,088,516
2,059,742
2,075,515
1,993,808
See
accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.
2
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
FOR
THE THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
Series B
Preferred Stock
Common Stock
Common Stock
to be Issued
Additional
Paid-in
Treasury Stock
Accumulated
other
Comprehensive
Accumulated
Total
Stockholders’
Shares
Amount
Shares
Amount
Shares
Amount
Capital
Shares
Amount
Gain
Deficit
Equity
Balance,
December 31, 2022
-
$ -
2,059,717
$ 206
139
$ -
$ 52,285,488
-
$ -
$ -
$ ( 39,729,118 )
$ 12,556,576
Accretion
of stock based compensation in connection with stock option grants
-
-
-
-
-
-
603,278
-
-
-
-
603,278
Accretion
of stock-based professional fees in connection with stock option grants and shares
-
-
-
-
-
-
21,900
-
-
-
-
21,900
Issuance
of common stock for professional services
-
-
14,300
1
-
-
99,999
-
-
-
-
100,000
Purchase
of treasury stock
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
47,985
( 311,174 )
-
-
( 311,174 )
Accumulated
other comprehensive gain
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
132,883
-
132,883
Rounding
-
-
25
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Net
loss for the period
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
( 2,399,214 )
( 2,399,214 )
Balance,
March 31, 2023
-
-
2,074,042
207
139
-
53,010,665
47,985
( 311,174 )
132,883
( 42,128,332 )
10,704,249
Accretion
of stock based compensation in connection with stock option grants
-
-
-
-
-
-
752,155
-
-
-
-
752,155
Accretion
of stock-based professional fees in connection with stock option grants
-
-
-
-
-
-
33,058
-
-
-
-
33,058
Purchase
of treasury stock
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
18,959
( 86,795 )
-
-
( 86,795 )
Accumulated
other comprehensive gain
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
65,445
-
65,445
Net
loss for the period
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
( 2,287,230 )
( 2,287,230 )
Balance,
June 30, 2023
-
-
2,074,042
207
139
-
53,795,878
66,944
( 397,969 )
198,328
( 44,415,562 )
9,180,882
Issuance
of common stock for professional services
-
-
19,802
2
-
-
99,998
-
-
-
-
100,000
Accretion
of stock based compensation in connection with stock option grants
-
-
-
-
-
-
624,361
-
-
-
-
624,361
Accretion
of stock-based professional fees in connection with stock option grants
-
-
-
-
-
-
30,803
-
-
-
-
30,803
Sale
of Series B preferred stock
2,000,000
200
-
-
-
-
800
-
-
-
-
1,000
Accumulated
other comprehensive loss
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
( 89,405 )
-
( 89,405 )
Rounding
for reverse split
-
-
441
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Net
loss for the period
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
( 2,364,580 )
( 2,364,580 )
Balance,
September 30, 2023
2,000,000
$ 200
2,094,285
$ 209
139
$ -
$ 54,551,840
66,944
$ ( 397,969 )
$ 108,923
$ ( 46,780,142 )
$ 7,483,061
3
Series B
Preferred Stock
Common Stock
Common Stock
to be Issued
Additional
Paid-in
Treasury
Stock
Accumulated
other
Comprehensive
Accumulated
Total
Stockholders’
Shares
Amount
Shares
Amount
Shares
Amount
Capital
Shares
Amount
Gain
Deficit
Equity
Balance,
December 31, 2021
-
$ -
1,959,717
$ 196
139
$ -
$ 47,674,364
-
$ -
$ -
$ ( 27,590,546 )
$ 20,084,014
Accretion
of stock based compensation in connection with stock option grants
-
-
-
-
-
-
822,583
-
-
-
-
822,583
Accretion
of stock-based professional fees in connection with stock option grants and shares
-
-
-
-
-
-
202,275
-
-
-
-
202,275
Net
loss for the period
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
( 3,365,846 )
( 3,365,846 )
Balance,
March 31, 2022
-
-
1,959,717
196
139
-
48,699,222
-
-
-
( 30,956,392 )
17,743,026
Accretion
of stock based compensation in connection with stock option grants
-
-
-
-
-
-
772,197
-
-
-
-
772,197
Accretion
of stock-based professional fees in connection with stock option grants and shares
-
-
-
-
-
-
35,284
-
-
-
-
35,284
Shares
issued for asset acquisition
-
-
100,000
10
-
-
1,089,990
-
-
-
-
1,090,000
Net
loss for the period
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
( 2,581,712 )
( 2,581,712 )
Balance,
June 30, 2022
-
-
2,059,717
206
139
-
50,596,693
-
-
-
( 33,538,104 )
17,058,795
Accretion
of stock based compensation in connection with stock option grants
-
-
-
-
-
-
787,585
-
-
-
-
787,585
Accretion
of stock-based professional fees in connection with stock option grants and shares
-
-
-
-
-
-
51,204
-
-
-
-
51,204
Net
loss for the period
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
( 2,656,705 )
( 2,656,705 )
Balance,
September 30, 2022
-
$ -
2,059,717
$ 206
139
$ -
$ 51,435,482
-
$ -
$ -
$ ( 36,194,809 )
$ 15,240,879
See
accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.
4
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
For the Nine Months Ended
September 30,
2023
2022
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING
ACTIVITIES:
Net
loss
$ ( 7,051,024 )
$ ( 8,604,263 )
Adjustments
to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:
Depreciation
and amortization
20,687
67,227
Amortization
of right of use asset
44,272
36,426
Stock-based
compensation
1,979,794
2,382,364
Stock-based
professional fees
204,041
288,764
Gain
from initial consolidation of variable interest entities
( 106,538 )
-
Impairment
loss on digital currencies and other digital assets
23,381
91,204
Non-cash
digital currency and other digital assets fees
-
13,831
Non-cash
revenue from sale of Venvuu NFT digital asset
-
( 36,394 )
Realized
gain on short-term investments
( 239,382 )
( 9,702 )
Unrealized
loss on short-term investments
47,672
( 7,113 )
Changes
in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts
receivable
242
86
Accounts
receivable - related party
42,000
-
Prepaid
expenses
( 61,456 )
117,396
Accounts
payable and accrued expenses
( 14,283 )
( 23,386 )
Contract
liabilities
( 108 )
( 4,997 )
Operating
lease liability
( 48,808 )
( 39,027 )
NET
CASH USED IN OPERATING ACTIVITIES
( 5,159,510 )
( 5,727,584 )
CASH
FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds
from sale of short-term investments
9,845,000
6,430,000
Purchase
of short-term investments, net
( 5,363,163 )
( 14,394,340 )
Purchases
of property and equipment
( 49,485 )
( 44,475 )
Increase
in cash from consolidation of variable interest entities
64,538
-
Purchases
of digital currencies and other digital assets
-
( 233,245 )
NET
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES
4,496,890
( 8,242,060 )
CASH
FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Payments
on related party advances
-
( 203 )
Repayment
of advances - related party
( 1,315 )
-
Proceeds
from sale of Series B preferred stock
1,000
-
Purchase
of treasury stock
( 397,969 )
-
NET
CASH USED IN FINANCING ACTIVITIES
( 398,284 )
( 203 )
NET
DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
( 1,060,904 )
( 13,969,847 )
Effect
of exchange rate changes on cash
34
-
CASH
AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - beginning of period
1,732,956
20,199,735
CASH
AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - end of period
$ 672,086
$ 6,229,888
SUPPLEMENTAL
DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash
paid for:
Interest
$ -
$ -
Income
taxes
$ -
$ -
NON-CASH
INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Digital
currencies used to pay accounts payable
$ -
$ 112,500
Common
stock issued for future services
$ 100,000
$ -
Issuance
of common shares for intangible assets
$ -
$ 1,090,000
See
accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.
5
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
NOTE
1 – ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Organization
DatChat,
Inc. (“DatChat” or “the Company”) was incorporated in the State of Nevada on December 4, 2014 under the name
of YssUp, Inc. On March 4, 2015, the Company’s corporate name was changed to Dat Chat, Inc. In August 2016, the Board of Directors
of the Company approved to change the name of the Company from Dat Chat, Inc. to DatChat, Inc. The Company established a fiscal year
end of December 31. The Company is a blockchain, cybersecurity, and social media company that not only focuses on protecting privacy
on personal devices, but also protects user information after it is shared with others. The Company believes that one’s right to
privacy should not end the moment they click “send.” The Company’s flagship product, DatChat Messenger & Private
Social Network, is a mobile application that gives users the ability to communicate with privacy and protection.
Recently,
the Company has expanded its business and product offerings to include the co-development of a mobile-based social metaverse (“Metaverse”),
known as “The Habytat”.. The Metaverse is a virtual-reality space in which users can interact with a computer-generated environment
and other users.
On
June 16, 2022, the Company formed a wholly owned subsidiary, SmarterVerse, Inc. (“SmarterVerse”), a company incorporated
under the laws of the State of Nevada. On February 14, 2023, SmarterVerse entered into a subscription agreement with Metabizz, LLC. In
connection with the subscription agreement, SmarterVerse sold Metabizz, LLC 8,000,000 shares of its common stock for $ 800 , which is 40 %
of the issued and outstanding common shares of SmarterVerse. Based on the Company’s analysis, on February 14, 2023, Metabizz, LLC
was determined to be a variable interest entity (see below).
On
June 29, 2022, the Company, DatChat Patents I, Inc., a Nevada corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of DatChat that was formed on June
23, 2022 (“Merger Sub I”), DatChat Patents II, LLC, a Nevada limited liability company and wholly-owned subsidiary of DatChat
that was formed on June 23, 2022 (“Merger Sub II”), and Avila Security Corporation, a Delaware corporation (“Avila”),
entered into an agreement and plan of merger (the “Merger Agreement”). Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, the Company acquired
all the issued and outstanding shares of Avila in consideration for the issuance of 100,000 shares (the “Acquisition Shares”)
of the Company’s restricted stock. The acquisition included intellectual property rights in blockchain based digital rights management
and object sharing technology, including encrypted WebRTC real-time video and audio streaming communications. Immediately following the
merger, Merger Sub I was merged into Avila and Merger Sub I was dissolved and Avila was merged into Merger Sub II. (See Note 3). Other
than owning certain patents, Avila had no operations or no employees and was not considered a business.
On
September 19, 2023, the Company filed a Certificate of Change (the “Certificate of Change”) with the Secretary of State of
the State of Nevada to effectuate a 1-for-10 reverse stock split (the “Reverse Stock Split”) of the Company’s issued
and outstanding and authorized shares of common stock, par value $ 0.0001 per share (“Common Stock”). The Reverse Stock Split
became effective on September 19, 2023. Proportional adjustments for the Reverse Stock Split were made to the Company’s outstanding
stock options, warrants and equity incentive plans. All share and per-share data and amounts have been retroactively adjusted as of the
earliest period presented in the unaudited consolidated financial statements to reflect the Reverse Stock Split.
Basis
of presentation
Management
acknowledges its responsibility for the preparation of the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements which reflect
all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, considered necessary in its opinion for a fair statement of its financial
position and the results of its operations for the periods presented. The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements
of the Company have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (the “U.S.
GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions Article 8-03 of Regulation S-X. Operating results for interim
periods are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for the fiscal year as a whole.
6
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
Certain
information and note disclosure normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP has been condensed or
omitted from these statements pursuant to such accounting principles and, accordingly, they do not include all the information and notes
necessary for comprehensive financial statements. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction
with the summary of significant accounting policies and notes to the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2022 of the
Company which were included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
March 31, 2023.
The
Company consolidates its subsidiaries that are wholly-owned, majority owned, and entities that are variable interest entities (“VIE”)
where the Company is determined to be the primary beneficiary. The Company’s consolidated financial statements include the accounts
of its wholly-owned subsidiaries, DatChat, Inc., DatChat Patents II, LLC, its majority owned subsidiary, SmarterVerse, and VIE entities,
Metabizz, LLC, and Metabizz SAS (collectively the “Company”). All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated
in consolidation.
Variable
interest entities
Pursuant
to ASC 810-10-25-22 , an entity is defined as a VIE if it either lacks sufficient equity to finance its activities without additional
subordinated financial support, or it is structured such that the holders of the voting rights do not substantively participate in the
gains and losses of the entity. When determining whether an entity that meets the definition of a business qualifies for a scope exception
from applying VIE guidance, the Company considers whether: (i) it has participated significantly in the design of the entity, (ii) it
has provided more than half of the total financial support to the entity, and (iii) substantially all of the activities of the VIE are
conducted on its behalf. A VIE is consolidated by its primary beneficiary, the party that has the power to direct the activities that
most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and has the right to receive benefits or the obligation to absorb losses
of the entity that could be potentially significant to the VIE. The primary beneficiary assessment must be re-evaluated on an ongoing
basis.
Based
on the Company’s analysis, on February 14, 2023, Metabizz, LLC, a Florida corporation, and Metabizz SAS, a company incorporated
under the laws of Columbia (collectively “Metabizz”), were determined to be VIE entities in accordance with ASC 810-10-25-22
because the equity owners in Metabizz do not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest and the initial equity
investments in these entities may be or are insufficient to meet or sustain its operations without additional subordinated financial
support from DatChat. The equity owners of Metabizz have only a nominal equity investment at risk, and the Company absorbs or receives
a majority of the entity’s expected losses or benefits. The Company participates significantly in the design of Metabizz. The Company
has provided working capital advances to Metabizz to allow Metabizz to fund its day to day obligations. Substantially all of the activities
of Metabizz are conducted for the Company’s benefit, as evidenced by the fact that the operations of Metabizz consists of development
of software and technologies to be used by SmarterVerse and the Company provides work capital to Metabizz to pay employees and independent
contractors to perform the development services on behalf of the Company. Repayment of the working capital advances is not guaranteed
by the equity owner of Metabizz and creditors of Metabizz do not have recourse against the Company. Accordingly, the Company is required
to consolidate the assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses of Metabizz using the fair value method. Additionally, the managing partner
of Metabizz is also the Chief Innovation Officer of SmarterVerse.
In
connection with the initial consolidation of Metabizz, on February 14, 2023 (the initial consolidation date), the Company recorded a
gain on initial consolidation of variable interest entities of $ 106,538 .
The
Company’s consolidated balance sheets included the following assets and liabilities from its VIEs:
September 30,
February 14,
2023
2023
Cash
$ 12,540
$ 64,538
Due
from DatChat
-
42,000
Property
and equipment, net
46,145
Total
assets
$ 58,685
$ 106,538
Due
to DatChat (eliminates in consolidation)
$ 859,561
$ -
Total
liabilities
$ 859,561
$ -
7
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
Liquidity
As
reflected in the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company incurred
a net loss of $ 7,051,024 and used cash in operations of $ 5,159,510 . As of September 30, 2023, the Company has an accumulated deficit
of $ 46,780,142 and has generated minimal revenues since inception. As of September 30, 2023, the Company had working capital of $ 7,307,166 ,
including cash of $ 672,086 and short-term investments of $ 6,826,759 . These events served to mitigate the conditions that historically
raised substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. The Company believes its cash and short-term
investments will provide sufficient cash flows to meet its obligations for a minimum of twelve months from the date of this filing.
Use
of estimates
The
preparation of the financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires management to
make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses, and the related disclosures
at the date of the consolidated financial statements and during the reporting period. Actual results could materially differ from these
estimates. Significant estimates include assumptions used in assessing impairment of long-term assets, the valuation of intangible assets,
the valuation of digital currencies and other digital assets, the valuation of lease liabilities and related right of use assets, the
valuation of short-term investments, the valuation of deferred tax assets, and the fair value of non-cash equity transactions.
Cash
and cash equivalents
The
Company considers all highly liquid debt instruments and other short-term investments with maturities of three months or less, when purchased,
to be cash equivalents. The Company maintains cash and cash equivalent balances at one financial institution that is insured by
the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”). The Company’s account at this institution is insured by the FDIC
up to $ 250,000 . On September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company had cash in excess of FDIC limits of approximately $ 402,283
and $ 1,406,033 , respectively. To reduce its risk associated with the failure of such financial institution, the Company evaluates at
least annually the rating of the financial institution in which it holds deposits. Any material loss that the Company may experience
in the future could have an adverse effect on its ability to pay its operational expenses or make other payments and may require the
Company to move its cash to other high quality financial institutions. Currently, the Company is reviewing its bank relationships
in order to mitigate its risk to ensure that its exposure is limited or reduced to the FDIC protection limits.
8
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
Fair
value measurements and fair value of financial instruments
The
carrying value of certain financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts payable and accrued expenses, and due
to related party are carried at historical cost basis, which approximates their fair values because of the short-term nature of these
instruments.
The
Company analyzes all financial instruments with features of both liabilities and equity under the Financial Accounting Standard Board’s
(the “FASB”) accounting standard for such instruments. Under this standard, financial assets and liabilities are classified
in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The Company did not identify
any assets or liabilities that are required to be presented on the balance sheet at fair value in accordance with the Financial Accounting
Standard Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 820.
The
following table represents the Company’s fair value hierarchy of its financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on
a recurring basis as of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022.
September
30, 2023
December
31, 2022
Description
Level
1
Level
2
Level
3
Level
1
Level
2
Level
3
Short-term investments
$ 6,826,759
$ -
$ -
$ 11,007,997
$ -
$ -
The
Company’s short-term investments are level 1 measurements and are based on redemption value at each date.
Short-term
investments
The
Company’s portfolio of short-term investments consists of marketable debt securities which are comprised solely of highly rated
U.S. government securities with maturities of more than three months, but less than one year. The Company classifies these as available-for-sale
at purchase date and will reevaluate such designation at each period end date. The Company may sell these marketable debt securities
prior to their stated maturities depending upon changing liquidity requirements. These debt securities are classified as current assets
in the consolidated balance sheet and recorded at fair value, with unrealized gains or losses included in accumulated other comprehensive
gain (loss) and as a component of the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Gains and losses are recognized when realized. Gains
and losses are determined using the specific identification method and are reported in other income (expense), net in the consolidated
statements of operations. Short-term investments are carried at fair value, which is based on quoted market prices for such securities,
if available, or is estimated on the basis of quoted market prices of financial instruments with similar characteristics.
An
impairment loss may be recognized when the decline in fair value of the debt securities is determined to be other-than-temporary. The
Company evaluates its investments for other-than-temporary declines in fair value below the cost basis each quarter, or whenever events
or changes in circumstances indicate that the cost basis of the short-term investments may not be recoverable. The evaluation is based
on a number of factors, including the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been below the cost basis, as well as
adverse conditions related specifically to the security, such as any changes to the credit rating of the security and the intent to sell
or whether the Company will more likely than not be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis.
The
Company recorded $( 88,681 ) and $ 108,889 of unrealized (loss) gain for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, respectively.
The Company did not recognize any gains or losses on short-term investments for the nine months ended September 30, 2022.
Accounting
for digital currencies and other digital assets
The
Company purchases Ethereum cryptocurrency (“Ethereum”) and other digital assets and accepts Ethereum as a form of payment
for non-fungible tokens sales (NFTs). The Company accounts for these digital assets held as the result of the purchase or receipt of
Ethereum and other digital assets, as indefinite-lived intangible assets in accordance with ASC 350, Intangibles—Goodwill
and Other (“ASC 350”). The Company has ownership of and control over its digital currencies and digital assets and the Company
may use third-party custodial services to secure them. The digital currencies and digital assets are initially recorded at cost and are
subsequently remeasured, net of any impairment losses incurred since acquisition. The Company believes that digital currencies and other
digital assets meet the definition of indefinite-lived intangible assets and accounts for them at historical cost less impairment, applying
the guidance in ASC 350. The Company monitors any standard-setting, regulatory or technological developments that may affect the Company’s
accounting for digital currencies or its controls and processes related to digital currencies. Digital currencies are included in long-term
assets in the consolidated balance sheet.
9
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
The
Company determines the fair value of its digital currencies and other digital assets on a nonrecurring basis in accordance with ASC 820, Fair
Value Measurement, based on quoted prices on the active exchange(s) that it has determined is the principal market for Ethereum (Level
1 inputs) and other digital assets. The Company performs an analysis each quarter to identify whether events or changes in circumstances,
principally decreases in the quoted prices on active exchanges, indicate that it is more likely than not that its digital assets are
impaired. In determining if an impairment has occurred, the Company considers the lowest market price quoted on an active exchange since
acquiring the respective digital asset. If the then current carrying value of a digital asset exceeds the fair value, an impairment loss
has occurred with respect to those digital assets in the amount equal to the difference between their carrying values and the fair value.
The impaired digital assets are written down to their fair value at the time of impairment and this new cost basis will not be adjusted
upward for any subsequent increase in fair value. Gains are not recorded until realized upon sale, at which point they are presented
net of any impairment losses for the same digital assets held. In determining the gain or loss to be recognized upon sale, the Company
calculates the difference between the sales price and carrying value of the digital assets sold immediately prior to sale. Impairment
losses and gains or losses on sales are recognized within operating expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. During the
nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company recorded an impairment loss of $ 23,381 , which consists of an impairment of virtual
real estate.
Property
and equipment
Property
and equipment are stated at cost and are depreciated using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives, which range from
three to five years. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the useful life or lease term including scheduled renewal
terms. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. When assets are retired or disposed of, the cost and accumulated depreciation
are removed from the accounts, and any resulting gains or losses are included in income in the year of disposition. The Company examines
the possibility of decreases in the value of these assets when events or changes in circumstances reflect the fact that their recorded
value may not be recoverable.
Capitalized
internal-use software costs
Costs
incurred to develop internal-use software, including Metaverse software development, are expensed as incurred during the preliminary
project stage. Internal-use software development costs are capitalized during the application development stage, which is after: (i)
the preliminary project stage is completed; and (ii) management authorizes and commits to funding the project and it is probable the
project will be completed and used to perform the function intended. Capitalization ceases at the point the software project is substantially
complete and ready for its intended use, and after all substantial testing is completed. Upgrades and enhancements are capitalized if
it is probable that those expenditures will result in additional functionality. Amortization is provided for on a straight-line basis
over the expected useful life of the internal-use software development costs and related upgrades and enhancements. When existing software
is replaced with new software, the unamortized costs of the old software are expensed when the new software is ready for its intended
use. Software development costs incurred during the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 were expensed since the Metaverse software
development project is in the preliminary project stage. Such costs are included in research and development costs on the accompanying
unaudited consolidated statement of operations and were incurred with Metabizz (see Note 6).
Intangible
assets
Intangible
assets, consisting of patents, are carried at cost less accumulated amortization, computed using the straight-line method over the estimated
useful life, less any impairment charges. Based on the Company’s impairment analysis, management determined that an intangible
impairment charge was required for the year ended December 31, 2022 and accordingly, the Company recorded an impairment loss of
$ 981,000 . (See Note 5 for additional information regarding intangible assets).
10
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
Impairment
of long-lived assets
In
accordance with ASC Topic 360, the Company reviews long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate
that the carrying amount of the assets may not be fully recoverable, or at least annually. The Company recognizes an impairment loss
when the sum of expected undiscounted future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of the asset. The amount of impairment is measured
as the difference between the asset’s estimated fair value and its book value.
Revenue
recognition
The
Company recognizes revenue in accordance with ASC Topic 606 Revenue from Contracts with Customers, which requires revenue to be recognized
in a manner that depicts the transfer of goods or services to customers in amounts that reflect the consideration to which the entity
expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services.
The
Company recognizes revenues from subscription fees on the Company’s messaging application in the month they are earned. Annual
and lifetime subscription payments received that are related to future periods are recorded as deferred revenue to be recognized as revenues
over the contract term or period. Lifetime subscriptions are being recognized to revenues over a 12-month period.
The
Company’s NFT revenues were generated from the sale of NFTs. The Company accepted Ethereum as a form of payment for NFT sales.
The Company’s NFTs existed on the Ethereum Blockchain under the Company’s VenVuu brand. VenVuu is a Metaverse advertising
platform that allows advertisers and Metaverse landowners to connect using the Company’s proprietary Metaverse ad network and dynamic
NFT technology. The Company used the NFT exchange, OpenSea, to facilitate its sales of NFTs. The Company, through OpenSea, has custody
and control of the NFT prior to the delivery to the customer and records revenue at a point in time when the NFT is delivered to the
customer and the customer pays. The Company has no obligations for returns, refunds or warranty after the NFT sale. The value of the
sale was determined based on the value of the Ethereum crypto currency received as consideration. Each NFT generated produces a unique
identifying code. The Company does not expect to generate revenues from the sale of NFT’s in the future.
The
Company tracks its revenue by product. The following table summarizes revenue by product for the three and nine months ended September
30, 2023 and 2022:
For the Three Months Ended
September 30,
For the Nine Months Ended
September 30,
2023
2022
2023
2022
Subscription revenues
$ 175
$ 3,540
$ 501
$ 5,902
NFT revenues
-
-
-
36,394
Total
$ 175
$ 3,540
$ 501
$ 42,296
Research
and Development
Research
and development costs incurred in the development of the Company’s products are expensed as incurred and include costs such as
outside development costs, salaries and other allocated costs incurred. During the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, research
and development costs incurred in the development of the Company’s software products were $ 380,017 and $ 258,957 , respectively.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, research and development costs incurred in the development of the Company’s
software products were $ 1,064,049 and $ 258,957 , respectively. Research and development costs are included in research and development
expense on the accompanying unaudited consolidated statements of operations.
Advertising
Costs
The
Company applies ASC 720 “Other Expenses” to account for advertising related costs. Pursuant to ASC 720-35-25-1, the Company
expenses the advertising costs as they are incurred. Advertising costs were $ 219,008 and $ 65,181 for the three months ended September
30, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and advertising costs were $ 379,410 and $ 645,825 for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022,
respectively, and are included in marketing and advertising expenses on the unaudited consolidated statements of operations.
11
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
Leases
The
Company applied ASC Topic 842, Leases (Topic 842) to arrangements with lease terms of 12 months or more. Operating lease right of use
assets (“ROU”) represents the right to use the leased asset for the lease term and operating lease liabilities are recognized
based on the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term at commencement date. As most leases do not provide
an implicit rate, the Company use an incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the adoption date in determining
the present value of future payments. Lease expense for minimum lease payments is amortized on a straight-line basis over the lease term
and is included in general and administrative expenses in the statements of operations.
Income
taxes
The
Company accounts for income taxes pursuant to the provision of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 740-10, “Accounting
for Income Taxes” (“ASC 740-10”), which requires, among other things, an asset and liability approach to calculating
deferred income taxes. The asset and liability approach requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected
future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and the tax bases of assets and liabilities. A valuation
allowance is provided to offset any net deferred tax assets for which management believes it is more likely than not that the net deferred
asset will not be realized.
The
Company follows the provision of ASC 740-10 related to Accounting for Uncertain Income Tax Positions. When tax returns are filed, there
may be uncertainty about the merits of positions taken or the amount of the position that would be ultimately sustained. In accordance
with the guidance of ASC 740-10, the benefit of a tax position is recognized in the consolidated financial statements in the period during
which, based on all available evidence, management believes it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination,
including the resolution of appeals or litigation processes, if any. Tax positions taken are not offset or aggregated with other positions.
Tax positions that meet the more likely than not recognition threshold are measured at the largest amount of tax benefit that is more
than 50 percent likely of being realized upon settlement with the applicable taxing authority. The portion of the benefit associated
with tax positions taken that exceed the amount measured as described above should be reflected as a liability for uncertain tax benefits
in the accompanying balance sheet along with any associated interest and penalties that would be payable to the taxing authorities upon
examination. The Company believes its tax positions are all more likely than not to be upheld upon examination. As such, the Company
has not recorded a liability for uncertain tax benefits.
The
Company has adopted ASC 740-10-25, “Definition of Settlement”, which provides guidance on how an entity should determine
whether a tax position is effectively settled for the purpose of recognizing previously unrecognized tax benefits and provides that a
tax position can be effectively settled upon the completion and examination by a taxing authority without being legally extinguished.
For tax positions considered effectively settled, an entity would recognize the full amount of tax benefit, even if the tax position
is not considered more likely than not to be sustained based solely on the basis of its technical merits and the statute of limitations
remains open. The federal and state income tax returns of the Company are subject to examination by the IRS and state taxing authorities,
generally for three years after they are filed.
Stock-based
compensation
Stock-based
compensation is accounted for based on the requirements of ASC 718 – “Compensation–Stock Compensation ”,
which requires recognition in the consolidated financial statements of the cost of employee, non-employee and director services received
in exchange for an award of equity instruments over the period the employee or director is required to perform the services in exchange
for the award (presumptively, the vesting period). The ASC also requires measurement of the cost of employee and director services received
in exchange for an award based on the grant-date fair value of the award. The Company has elected to account for forfeitures as
they occur.
12
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
Foreign
currency translation
The
reporting currency of the Company is the U.S. dollar. Except for Metabizz SAS, the functional currency of the Company is the U.S. dollar.
The functional currency of the Company’s VIE, Metabizz SAS, is the Columbian Peso (“COP”). For Metabizz SAS, results
of operations and cash flows are translated at average exchange rates during the period, assets and liabilities are translated at the
unified exchange rate at the end of the period, and equity is translated at historical exchange rates. As a result, amounts relating
to assets and liabilities reported on the statements of cash flows may not necessarily agree with the changes in the corresponding balances
on the balance sheets. Translation adjustments resulting from the process of translating the local currency financial statements into
U.S. dollars are included in determining comprehensive loss. The cumulative translation adjustment and effect of exchange rate changes
on cash for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 was $ 34 . Transactions denominated in foreign currencies are translated into the
functional currency at the exchange rates prevailing on the transaction dates. Assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies
are translated into the functional currency at the exchange rates prevailing at the balance sheet date with any transaction gains and
losses that arise from exchange rate fluctuations on transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency included
in the results of operations as incurred.
For
Metabizz SAS, which is located in Columbia, asset and liability accounts on September 30, 2023 were translated at 0.000245 COP to $1.00,
which was the exchange rate on the balance sheet date, and results of operations and cash flows are translated at the average exchange
rates during the period of 0. 000229 COP to $1.00.
Basic
and diluted net loss per share
Basic
net loss per share is computed by dividing the net loss by the weighted average number of common shares during the period. Diluted net
loss per share is computed using the weighted average number of common shares and potentially dilutive securities outstanding during
the period.
The
following were excluded from the computation of diluted shares outstanding as they would have had an anti-dilutive impact on the Company’s
net loss.
September
30,
2023
2022
Common stock equivalents:
Common stock
warrants
67,385
67,385
Common
stock options
166,420
161,420
Total
233,805
228,805
Recent
accounting pronouncements
Management
does not believe that any recently issued, but not yet effective accounting pronouncements, if adopted, would have a material effect
on its financial statements.
13
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
NOTE
2 – SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
On
September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company’s short-term investments consisted of the following:
September
30, 2023
December
31, 2022
Cost
Unrealized
Gain
Fair
Value
Cost
Unrealized
Loss
Fair
Value
US Treasury bills
$ 6,717,870
$ 108,889
$ 6,826,759
$ 10,715,325
$ 48,226
$ 10,763,551
Certificates of deposit
-
-
-
245,000
( 554 )
244,446
Total short-term investments
$ 6,717,870
$ 108,889
$ 6,826,759
$ 10,960,325
$ 47,672
$ 11,007,997
Short-term
investments mature between October 2023 and February 2024.
NOTE
3 – ACQUISITION
On
June 29, 2022, the Company, DatChat Patents I, Inc., a Nevada corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of DatChat that was formed on June
23, 2022 (“ Merger Sub I ”), DatChat Patents II, LLC, a Nevada limited liability company and wholly-owned subsidiary
of DatChat that was formed on June 23, 2022 (“ Merger Sub II ”), and Avila Security Corporation, a Delaware corporation
(“ Avila ”), entered into an agreement and plan of merger (the “ Merger Agreement ”). Pursuant to the
Merger Agreement, the Company acquired all the issued and outstanding shares of Avila in consideration of the issuance of an aggregate
of 100,000 shares (the “ Acquisition Shares ”) of the Company’s common stock. These shares were valued at $ 1,090,000 ,
or $ 10.90 per share, based on the quoted closing price of the Company’s common stock on the measurement date. The acquisition included
intellectual property rights in blockchain based digital rights management and object sharing technology, including encrypted WebRTC
real-time video and audio streaming communications. Immediately following the merger, Merger Sub I was merged into Avila and Merger
Sub I was dissolved and Avila was merged into Merger Sub II. Other than owning certain patents, Avila had no operations or no
employees and was not considered a business.
Pursuant
to ASU 2017-01 and ASC 805, the Company analyzed the Merger Agreement and the business of Avila to determine if the Company acquired
a business or acquired assets. Based on this analysis, it was determined that the Company acquired assets. No goodwill was recorded since
the Merger Agreement was accounted for as an asset purchase. In accordance with ASC 805, the fair value of the assets acquired is based
on either the fair value of the consideration given or the fair value of the assets acquired, whichever is more clearly evident, and
thus, more reliably measurable. The Company used the market price of the 100,000 common shares issued of $ 1,090,000 as the fair value
of the assets acquired since this value was more clearly evident, and thus, a more reliable measurable than the fair value of the patents
acquired. (see Note 5)
14
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
NOTE
4 – OPERATING LEASE RIGHT-OF-USE ASSETS AND OPERATING LEASE LIABILITIES
In
January 2019, the Company renewed and extended the term of its lease facility for another three-year period from January 2019 to December
2021 starting with a monthly base rent of $ 2,567 plus a pro rata share of operating expenses beginning January 2019. The base rent was
subject to annual increases beginning the 2 nd and 3 rd lease year as defined in the lease agreement. In addition
to the monthly base rent, the Company is charged separately for common area maintenance which is considered a non-lease component. These
non-lease component payments are expensed as incurred and are not included in operating lease assets or liabilities. On August 27,
2021, the Company entered into an amendment agreement with the same landlord to modify the facility lease to relocate and increase the
square footage of the lease premises. The term of the lease commenced on October 1, 2021 and will expire on December 31, 2024 with a
new monthly base rent of $ 7,156 plus a pro rata share of operating expenses beginning January 2022. The base rent will be subject to
3 % annual increases beginning in the 2 nd and 3 rd lease year as defined in the amended lease agreement. For the
nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, rent expense amounted to $ 68,215 and $ 70,816 , respectively, and were included in general
and administrative expenses.
On
August 27, 2021, upon the execution of the amendment agreement, the Company recorded right-of-use assets and operating lease liabilities
of $ 198,898 . The remaining lease term for the operating lease is 15 months and the incremental borrowing rate is 18.0 % (based on historical
borrowing rates).
Right-of-
use assets are summarized below:
September 30,
2023
December 31,
2022
Office lease
$ 198,898
$ 198,898
Less accumulated
amortization
( 108,644 )
( 64,372 )
Right-of-use asset,
net
$ 90,254
$ 134,526
Operating
Lease liabilities are summarized below:
September 30,
2023
December 31,
2022
Office lease
$ 198,898
$ 198,898
Reduction of lease
liability
( 96,693 )
( 47,885 )
Total lease liability
102,205
151,013
Less: current portion
79,354
67,338
Long term portion of
lease liability
$ 22,851
$ 83,675
Minimum
lease payments under the non-cancelable operating lease on September 30, 2023 are as follows:
For the year ended September 30:
2024
$ 91,415
2025
23,540
Total
114,955
Less: present value
discount
( 12,750 )
Total operating lease
liability
$ 102,205
15
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
NOTE
5 – INTANGIBLE ASSETS
On
June 29, 2022, in connection with the acquisition of Avila, the Company issued an aggregate of 100,000 shares of the Company’s
common stock. These shares were valued at $ 1,090,000 , or $ 10.90 per share, based on the quoted closing price of the Company’s common
stock on the measurement date. The acquisition included patents for intellectual property rights in blockchain based digital rights management
and object sharing technology, including encrypted WebRTC real-time video and audio streaming communications (See Note 3). The Company
was amortizing the patents over 5 years. During the year ended December 31, 2022, activities related to intangible assets is as follows:
For the Year
Ended
December 31,
2022
Acquisition of patents
$ 1,090,000
Less: amortization of patents
( 109,000 )
Less: impairment
of patents
( 981,000 )
Intangible assets,
net
$ -
The
Company periodically evaluates its finite intangible assets for impairment upon occurrence of events or changes in circumstances that
indicate the carrying amount of intangible assets may not be recoverable. The Company concluded that the undiscounted cash flows did
not support the carrying values of its intangible assets as of December 31, 2022. As of December 31, 2022, the Company has no projected
future revenues or cash flows related to the patents and has no current plans to exploit the patents. Accordingly, the Company determined
the value of the patents acquired were fully impaired as of December 31, 2022 and recognized an impairment loss on its long-lived intangible
assets of $ 981,000 .
NOTE
6 – RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Due
to Related Party
The
Company’s officer, Mr. Darin Myman, from time to time, provides advances to the Company for working capital purposes. On September
30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company had a payable to the officer of $ 0 and $ 1,315 , respectively, which is presented as due to
related party on the consolidated balance sheets. These advances are short-term in nature and non-interest bearing. During the nine months
ended September 30, 2023, the Company repaid $ 1,315 .
Research
and Development
On
July 19, 2022, the Company entered into a software development agreement with Metabizz. On February 14, 2023, the Company began consolidating
Metabizz as VIEs. For the period from January 1, 2023 to date of consolidation (February 14, 2023), the Company paid Metabizz $ 185,600
for software development services which is included in research and development expense on the accompanying unaudited consolidated statements
of operations.
NOTE
7 – STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
On
September 19, 2023, the Company filed a Certificate of Change (the “Certificate of Change”) with the Secretary of State of
the State of Nevada to effectuate a 1-for-10 reverse stock split (the “Reverse Stock Split”) of the Company’s issued
and outstanding and authorized shares of common stock, par value $ 0.0001 per share (“Common Stock”). The Reverse Stock Split
became effective on September 19, 2023. Proportional adjustments for the Reverse Stock Split were made to the Company’s outstanding
stock options, warrants and equity incentive plans. All share and per-share data and amounts have been retroactively adjusted as of the
earliest period presented in the unaudited consolidated financial statements to reflect the Reverse Stock Split.
Shares
Authorized
The
authorized capital stock consists of 38,000,000 shares, of which 18,000,000 are shares of common stock and 20,000,000 are shares of preferred
stock.
16
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
2021
Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan
On
July 26, 2021, the Company adopted the 2021 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan, and authorized the reservation of 200,000 shares of common
stock for future issuances under the plan. On December 19, 2022, Company held its 2022 annual meeting of stockholders, and the shareholders
approved to amend the Company’s 2021 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan to increase the number of shares reserved for issuance thereunder
to 300,000 shares from 200,000 .
Preferred
Stock
Series A Preferred Stock
In
August 2016, the Company designated 1.00 share of Series A Preferred Stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Series A Preferred
Stock”), which has a stated value equal to $1.00 as may be adjusted for any stock dividends, combinations or splits. Each one (1)
share of the Series A Preferred Stock shall have voting rights equal to (x) the total issued and outstanding Common Stock eligible to
vote at the time of the respective vote divided by (y) forty-nine one hundredths (0.49) minus (z) the total issued and outstanding Common
Stock eligible to vote at the time of the respective vote. The Series A Preferred Stock does not convert into securities of the Company.
The Series A Preferred Stock does not contain any redemption provision. In the event of liquidation of the Company, the holder of Series
A Preferred shall not have any priority or preferences with respect to any distribution of any assets of the Company and shall be entitled
to receive equally with the holders of the Company’s common stock. As of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, there were no
Series A Preferred Stock outstanding.
Series
B Preferred Stock
On
August 4, 2023, the Board filed the Certificate of Designation of Preferences (“COD”), Rights and Limitations of Series B
Preferred Stock (the “Series B COD”) with the Secretary of State of the State of Nevada designating 2,000,000 shares of preferred
stock as Series B (the “Series B Preferred”). The outstanding shares of Series B Preferred Stock shall have 10 votes per
share and shall vote together with the outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock as a single class exclusively with respect
to the Authorized Stock Increase (as defined in the Series B COD) and shall not be entitled to vote on any other matter. The shares of
Series B Preferred Stock shall be voted, without action by the holder, on the Authorized Stock Increase in the same proportion as shares
of Common Stock are voted (excluding any shares of Common Stock that are not voted) on the Authorized Stock Increase. The Series B Preferred
shall not have the right to vote and/or consent on any matter other than an Authorized Stock Increase Proposal. The Series B Preferred
Stock shall not be entitled to participate in any distribution of assets or rights upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of
the Company, shall not be convertible into Common Stock or any other security of the Company, and shall not be entitled to any dividends
or distributions.
The
outstanding shares of Series B preferred shall be redeemed in whole, but not in part (i) if such redemption is ordered by the board
of directors, or (ii) automatically and effective immediately after the effectiveness of an anticipated Authorized Stock increase.
The aggregate consideration payable for the outstanding Series B Preferred redeemed in the redemption shall be $ 10 in cash (the
“Redemption Price”).
From
and after the time at which the shares of Series B Preferred Stock is called for Redemption (whether automatically or otherwise) in accordance
with Series B COD, such shares of Series B Preferred Stock shall cease to be outstanding, and the only right of the former holder of
such shares of Series B Preferred Stock, as such, will be to receive the applicable Redemption Price. The shares of Series B Preferred
Stock redeemed by the Company pursuant to the Series B COD shall be automatically retired and restored to the status of an authorized
but unissued share of Preferred Stock, effective immediately after such Redemption.
On
August 4, 2023, the Company issued 2,000,000 of Series B preferred for aggregate cash of $ 1,000 .
17
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
Common
Stock
2023
Stock Repurchase Plan
On
January 6, 2023, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a stock repurchase program authorizing the purchase of up to $ 2 million
of the Company’s common stock (the “2023 Stock Repurchase Program”). In connection with the 2023 Stock Repurchase Program,
during the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company purchased 66,944 shares of its common stock for $ 397,969 , or at an average
price of $ 5.94 per share, which has been reflected as treasury stock on the accompanying unaudited consolidated balance sheet on September
30, 2023.
Common
Stock Issued for Professional Services
In
February 2021, the Company entered into a one-year Advisory Board Agreement with an individual who will act as an advisor to the Company’s
Board. In accordance with this agreement the Company issued 10,000 shares of its common stock as consideration for the services provided.
The Company valued these common shares at a fair value of $ 400,000 or $ 40.00 per common share based on sales of common stock in the recent
private placement. During the nine months ended September 30, 2022, the Company recorded stock-based consulting fees of $ 50,000 , which
was included in professional and consulting expenses in the accompanying unaudited statements of operations.
On
March 6, 2023, the Company entered into a six-month consulting agreement with an entity for investor relations services. In connection
with this consulting agreement, the Company issued 14,300 restricted common shares of the Company to the consultant. These shares vest
immediately. These shares were valued at $ 100,000 , or $ 6.99 per common share, based on the quoted closing price of the Company’s
common stock on the measurement date. In connection with this consulting agreement, during the month months ended September 30, 2023,
the Company recorded stock-based professional fees of $ 100,000 .
On
July 25, 2023, the Company issued 19,802 of its common shares pursuant to a one-year consulting agreement. These shares were valued at
$ 100,000 , or a per share price of $ 5.05 , based on the quoted closing price of the Company’s common stock on the measurement date.
In connection with these shares, the Company shall record stock-based professional fees of $ 100,000 over the term of the agreement.
Stock
Options
2022
On December 26, 2021 and effective January 10, 2022, the Company approved the grant of 15,000 options to purchase the Company’s
common stock to a newly hired employee of the Company. The options have a term of 5 years from the date of grant and are exercisable at
an exercise price of $ 40.00 per share. The options vest 25 % every six months from date of grant for two years. The employee service date
shall start on January 10, 2022 or the grant date which is when the Company started recognizing stock-based compensation expenses.
On
January 19, 2022, the Company granted an aggregate of 8,500 options to purchase the Company’s common stock to four newly hired
employees of the Company. The options have a term of 5 years from the date of grant and are exercisable at an exercise price of $ 40.00
per share. The options vest 25 % every six months from date of grant for two years. The employee service date started on January 19, 2022
or the grant date which is when the Company started recognizing stock-based compensation expenses.
18
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
On
July 22, 2022, the Company granted an aggregate of 32,500 options to purchase the Company’s common stock to employees and consultants
of the Company. The options have a term of 5 years from the date of grant and are exercisable at an exercise price of $ 40.00 per share.
The options vest 25 % every six months from date of grant for two years. The stock options were valued at the grant date using a Black-Scholes
option pricing model which will be recognized as stock-based compensation expense over the vesting period.
The
2022 stock option grants were valued at the respective grant dates using a Black-Scholes option pricing model using the assumptions discussed
below. In connection with the stock option grants, the Company valued these stock options at a fair value of $ 751,681 and records stock-based
compensation expense over the vesting period. Upon cancellation of unvested stock options, the fair value of these cancelled options
will be reversed.
2023
On
February 3, 2023, the Company granted an aggregate of 7,500 options to purchase the Company’s common stock to the Company’s
board of directors. The options each have a term of 5 years from the date of grant and are exercisable at an exercise price of $ 12.50
per share. The options vest six months from date of grant. The stock options were valued at the grant date using a Black-Scholes option
pricing model which will be recognized as stock-based compensation expense over the vesting period.
On
February 3, 2023, the Company granted an aggregate of 21,500 options to purchase the Company’s common stock to an officers, employees
and consultants of the Company. The options each have a term of 5 years from the date of grant and are exercisable at an exercise price
of $ 12.50 per share. The options vest 25 % every six months from date of grant for 2 years. The stock options were valued at the grant
date using a Black-Scholes option pricing model which will be recognized as stock-based compensation expense over the vesting period.
On
September 6, 2023, the Company granted an aggregate of 10,000 options to purchase the Company’s common stock to the Company’s
chief financial officer ( 5,000 options) and to an employee of the Company ( 5,000 options). The options each have a term of 5 years from
the date of grant and are exercisable at an exercise price of $ 15.00 per share. The options vest immediately. The stock options were
valued at the grant date using a Black-Scholes option pricing model which will be recognized as stock-based compensation expense over
the vesting period.
The
2023 stock option grants were valued at the respective grant dates using a Black-Scholes option pricing model using the assumptions discussed
below. In connection with the stock option grants, the Company valued these stock options at a fair value of $ 185,628 , or an average
of $ 4.76 per option. and records stock-based compensation expense over the vesting period. Upon cancellation of unvested stock options,
the fair value of these cancelled options will be reversed.
During
the nine months ended September 30, 2023, certain employees and consultants were terminated. Accordingly, 33,000 unvested options were
forfeited and $ 133,190 of previously recognized stock-based compensation and $ 25,525 of previously recognized stock-based professional
fees was reversed.
During
the nine months ended September 30, 2023, accretion of stock-based expense related to stock options, which is net of the reversal of
previously recognized stock-based expense due to forfeiture, amounted to $ 2,065,555 of which $ 1,979,794 was recorded in compensation
and related expenses and $ 85,761 was recorded in professional and consulting expenses as reflected in the unaudited consolidated statements
of operations. During the nine months ended September 30, 2022, the Company recognized total stock-based expenses related to stock options
of $ 2,621,129 of which $ 2,382,364 was recorded in compensation and related expenses and $ 238,764 was recorded in professional and consulting
expenses as reflected in the unaudited condensed statements of operations. As of September 30, 2023, a balance of $ 147,844 remains to
be expensed over future vesting periods related to unvested stock options issued for services to be expensed over a weighted average
period of 0.55 years.
19
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
During
the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, the stock options were valued at the grant date using a Black-Scholes option pricing
model with the following assumptions. The simplified method was used for the expected option term and expected volatility was based on
historical volatility:
2023
2022
Dividend rate
— %
— %
Term (in years)
3 years
2 to 3 years
Volatility
137.0 % to 168.0 %
155.9 % to 160.0 %
Risk—free interest rate
3.96 % - 4.73 %
1.53 % to 2.93 %
The
following is a summary of the Company’s stock option activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 as presented below:
Number of
Options
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (Years)
Balance
on December 31, 2022
160,420
$ 109.90
3.91
Granted
39,000
13.14
-
Cancelled
( 33,000 )
( 33.05 )
-
Balance
on September 30, 2023
166,420
$ 102.50
3.36
Options
exercisable on September 30, 2023
143,545
$ 113.68
3.27
Weighted
average fair value of options granted during the period
$ 4.76
On
September 30, 2023, the aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding was $ 0 .
Common
Stock Warrants
A
summary of the Company’s outstanding stock warrants is presented below:
Number of
Warrants
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (Years)
Balance
on December 31, 2022
67,385
$ 49.80
3.65
Granted
-
-
-
Balance
on September 30, 2023
67,385
49.80
2.90
Warrants
exercisable on September 30, 2023
67,385
$ 49.80
2.90
On
September 30, 2023, the aggregate intrinsic value of warrants outstanding was $ 0 .
20
DATCHAT,
INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER
30, 2023 AND 2022
(Unaudited)
NOTE
8 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Operating
Lease Agreement
See
Note 4 for disclosure on the Company’s operating lease for its offices.
Employment
Agreement
On
August 27, 2021 (the “Effective Date”), the Company entered into an agreement (the “Employment Agreement”) with
Darin Myman effective as of August 15, 2021 pursuant to which Mr. Myman’s (i) base salary will increase to $ 450,000 per year, and
(ii) Mr. Myman may be entitled to receive an annual bonus in an amount up to $ 350,000 , which annual bonus may be increased by the Compensation
Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Compensation Committee”), in its sole discretion, upon the achievement
of additional criteria established by the Compensation Committee from time to time (the “Annual Bonus”). The Employment
Agreement provides for a term of one (1) year (the “ Initial Term ”) from the date of the Effective Date and shall automatically
be extended for additional terms of one (1) year each (each a “ Renewal Term ”) unless either party gives prior written
notice of non-renewal to the other party no later than six (6) months prior to the expiration of the Initial Term, or the then current
Renewal Term, as the case may be. In addition, pursuant to the Employment Agreement, upon termination of Mr. Myman’s employment
for death or Total Disability (as defined in the Employment Agreement), in addition to any accrued but unpaid compensation and vacation
pay through the date of his termination and any other benefits accrued to him under any Benefit Plans (as defined in the Employment Agreement)
outstanding at such time and the reimbursement of documented, unreimbursed expenses incurred prior to such termination date (collectively,
the “Payments”), Mr. Myman shall be entitled to the following severance benefits: (i) 24 months of his then base salary;
(ii) if Mr. Myman elects continuation coverage for group health coverage pursuant to COBRA Rights (as defined in the Employment Agreement),
then for a period of 24 months following Mr. Myman’s termination he will be obligated to pay only the portion of the full COBRA
Rights cost of the coverage equal to an active employee’s share of premiums (if any) for coverage for the respective plan year;
and (iii) payment on a pro-rated basis of any Annual Bonus or other payments earned in connection with any bonus plan to which Mr. Myman
was a participant as of the date of his termination (together with the Payments, the “Severance”). Furthermore, pursuant
to the Employment Agreement, upon Mr. Myman’s termination (i) at his option (A) upon 90 days prior written notice to the Company
or (B) for Good Reason (as defined in the Employment Agreement), (ii) termination by the Company without Cause (as defined in the Employment
Agreement) or (iii) termination of Mr. Myman’s employment within 40 days of the consummation of a Change in Control Transaction
(as defined in the Employment Agreement), Mr. Myman shall receive the Severance; provided, however, Mr. Myman shall be entitled to a
pro-rated Annual Bonus of at least $ 200,000 . In addition, any equity grants issued to Mr. Myman shall immediately vest upon termination
of Mr. Myman’s employment by him for Good Reason or by the Company at its option upon 90 days prior written notice to Mr. Myman,
without Cause.
NASDAQ
Notice
On
October 14, 2022, the Company received written notice from Nasdaq that the Company was not in compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2),
as the minimum bid price of our common stock had been below $ 1.00 per share for 30 consecutive business days. In accordance with Nasdaq
Listing Rule 5810, the Company has a period of 180 calendar days, or until April 12, 2023, to regain compliance with the minimum bid
price requirement. To regain compliance, the closing bid price of the Company’s common stock must meet or exceed $ 1.00 per share
for at least 10 consecutive business days during this 180 calendar day period. In the event the Company does not regain compliance by
April 12, 2023, the Company may be eligible for an additional 180 calendar day grace period if it meets the continued listing standards,
with the exception of bid price, for The Nasdaq Capital Market, and the Company provides written notice to Nasdaq of its intention to
cure the deficiency during the second compliance period. On April 13, 2023, the Company was notified (the “Second Notification
Letter”) by the Staff that we are eligible for an additional 180 calendar day period, or until October 9, 2023 to regain compliance
and cure the deficiency, so long as we meet the Nasdaq continued listing requirements (except for the bid price requirement). On October
4, 2023, the Company received notice from Nasdaq that the Company has regained compliance with the minimum bid price requirement
for continued listing on The Nasdaq Capital Market.
NOTE
9 – SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On
November 9, 2023, the Company filed a Certificate of Correction with the Secretary of State of the State of Nevada to correct a typographical
error contained in the Certificate of Change that was filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Nevada on September 19, 2023
in order to effectuate the Reverse Stock Split. The Certificate of Change incorrectly stated that the authorized shares of preferred
stock, par value $ 0.0001 per share following the change was 1,000,000 . The Reverse Stock Split had no impact on the number of authorized
shares of preferred, par value $ 0.0001 , which remains unchanged at 20,000,000 shares.
On
November 10, 2023, the board of directors of the Company approved the adoption of the Amended and Restated 2021 Omnibus Equity Incentive
Plan, the sole purpose of which was to remove any inadvertent references to the Company being a Delaware corporation or the 2021 Omnibus
Equity Incentive Plan being governed under Delaware law and to properly state that the Company is a Nevada corporation and that the 2021
Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan is governed by Nevada law.
21
ITEM
2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
You
should read the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations together with our consolidated
financial statements and the related notes appearing elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and the audited financial statements
and related notes for the year ended December 31, 2022 included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities Exchange
Commission, or SEC. In addition to historical information, this discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that involve
risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Our actual results may differ materially from those discussed below. Factors that could cause or
contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those identified below, and those discussed in the section titled “Risk
Factors” included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. All amounts in this report are in U.S. dollars, unless otherwise
noted.
Overview
We
are a blockchain, cybersecurity, and social media company that not only focuses on protecting privacy on personal devices, but also protects
user information after it is shared with others. We believe that one’s right to privacy should not end the moment they click “send”,
and that we all deserve the same right to privacy online that we enjoy in our own living rooms. Our flagship product, DatChat Messenger
& Private Social Network, is a privacy platform and mobile application that gives users the ability to communicate with the privacy
and protection they deserve. Recently. we have expanded our business and product offerings to include the co-development of a mobile-based
social metaverse (“Metaverse”), known as “The Habytat”. Recently, we developed, VenVūū, an advertising
and non-fungible token (“NFT”) monetization platform. We are no longer developing VenVūū. The Metaverse is a
virtual-reality space in which users can interact with a computer-generated environment and other users.
DatChat
Messenger & Private Social Network
Our
platform allows users to exercise control over their messages and posts, even after they are sent. Through our application, users can
delete messages that they have sent, on their own device and the recipient’s device as well. There is no set time limit within
which they must exercise this choice. A user can elect at any time to delete a message that they previously sent to a recipient’s
device.
The
application also enables users to hide secret and encrypted messages behind a cover, which messages can only be unlocked by the recipient
and which are automatically destroyed after a fixed number of views or fixed amount of time. Users can decide how long their messages
last on the recipient’s device. The application also includes a screen shot protection system, which makes it virtually impossible
for the recipient to screenshot a message or picture before it gets destroyed. In addition, users can delete entire conversations at
any time, making it like the conversation never even happened.
In
addition to the foregoing, the application also provides users with the ability to connect via an encrypted live video chat that also
is designed to prevent screenshots or screen grabs.
The
application integrates with iMessage, making private messages potentially available to hundreds of millions of users.
The
Habytat
In
June 2022, we formed a wholly owned subsidiary, SmarterVerse, Inc. (“SmarterVerse”). In July 2022, SmarterVerse entered into
a development agreement with Metabizz, LLC, an infrastructure firm that creates and develops 4D experiences in the Metaverse. The owners
of Metabizz, LLC also own Metabizz SAS (together referred to as (“Metabizz”). As of February 2023, based on the Company’s
analysis, on February 14, 2023, Metabizz was determined to be a VIE entity in accordance with ASC 810-10-25-22.
In
November 2022, we launched The Habytat, a virtual space that blends real world and virtual realities into one, in real time, using emerging
technology like virtual and augmented reality, to create a highly immersive 3D environment.
In
January 2023, we launched Geniuz City, the first world within The Habytat. Geniuz City is intended to be a near photo-realistic world
that is based on the city of Miami and its surrounding areas. Geniuz City has been designed in a manner that can enable users to participate
in a number of different activities, such as parties, business conferences, shopping, socializing, and game play.
Currently,
once users download The Habytat application, we plan to grant each user rights to use a designated piece of virtual property in Geniuz
City through the minting and issuance of a unique NFT. NFTs (or non-fungible tokens) are digital assets that can represent a unique real-world
asset, such as art, music, in-game items, videos, or a piece of real estate or virtual property. Users will initially be able to choose
the style of house they want, then start customizing it to represent their personal style and taste. Users will then be able to accumulate
reward points when they visit and interact with such virtual property or invite others to join The Habytat, and such rewards can be used
to enhance, expand, and improve the virtual property.
In
addition, we plan to offer users the ability to have their own pets in the Habytat, which they will need to care for and can train to
follow basic obedience commands.
22
Risks
and Uncertainties
On
August 16, 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (the “IR Act”) was signed into federal law. The IR Act provides for,
among other things, a new U.S. federal 1% excise tax on certain repurchases of stock by publicly traded U.S. domestic corporations and
certain U.S. domestic subsidiaries of publicly traded foreign corporations occurring on or after January 1, 2023. The excise tax is imposed
on the repurchasing corporation itself, not its shareholders from which shares are repurchased. The amount of the excise tax is generally
1% of the fair market value of the shares repurchased at the time of the repurchase. However, for purposes of calculating the excise
tax, repurchasing corporations are permitted to net the fair market value of certain new stock issuances against the fair market value
of stock repurchases during the same taxable year. In addition, certain exceptions apply to the excise tax. The U.S. Department of the
Treasury (the “Treasury”) has been given authority to provide regulations and other guidance to carry out and prevent the
abuse or avoidance of the excise tax.
Management
continues to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the industry and has concluded that while it is reasonably possible that
the virus could have a negative effect on our financial position and results of its operations, the specific impact is not readily determinable
as of the date of these financial statements. These financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome
of this uncertainty.
Basis
of presentation
The
financial statements contained herein have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States
of America (the “U.S. GAAP”) and the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Critical
Accounting Policies and Significant Judgments and Estimates
This
management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based on our financial statements, which
have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates
and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date
of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reported period. In accordance
with U.S. GAAP, we base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions we believe to be reasonable under the
circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates if conditions differ from our assumptions. While our significant accounting
policies are more fully described in Note 1 in the “Notes to Financial Statements”, we believe the following accounting policies
are critical to the process of making significant judgments and estimates in preparation of our consolidated financial statements.
Use
of estimates
The
preparation of the financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires management to
make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses, and the related disclosures
at the date of the consolidated financial statements and during the reporting period. Actual results could materially differ from these
estimates. Significant estimates include assumptions used in assessing impairment of long-term assets, the valuation of intangible assets,
the valuation of digital currencies and other digital assets, the valuation of lease liabilities and related right of use assets, the
valuation of deferred tax assets, and the fair value of non-cash equity transactions.
Variable
interest entities
Pursuant
to ASC 810-10-25-22 , an entity is defined as a VIE if it either lacks sufficient equity to finance its activities without additional
subordinated financial support, or it is structured such that the holders of the voting rights do not substantively participate in the
gains and losses of the entity. When determining whether an entity that meets the definition of a business qualifies for a scope exception
from applying VIE guidance, we consider whether: (i) it has participated significantly in the design of the entity, (ii) it has provided
more than half of the total financial support to the entity, and (iii) substantially all of the activities of the VIE are conducted on
its behalf. A VIE is consolidated by its primary beneficiary, the party that has the power to direct the activities that most significantly
impact the VIE’s economic performance and has the right to receive benefits or the obligation to absorb losses of the entity that
could be potentially significant to the VIE. The primary beneficiary assessment must be re-evaluated on an ongoing basis.
Based
on our analysis, on February 14, 2023, Metabizz, LLC, a Florida corporation, and Metabizz SAS, a company incorporated under the laws
of Columbia (collectively “Metabizz”), were determined to be VIE entities in accordance with ASC 810-10-25-22 because
the equity owners in Metabizz do not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest and the initial equity investments
in these entities may be or are insufficient to meet or sustain its operations without additional subordinated financial support from
us. The equity owners of Metabizz have only a nominal equity investment at risk, and we absorb or receive a majority of the entity’s
expected losses or benefits. We participate significantly in the design of Metabizz. We have provided working capital advances to Metabizz
to allow Metabizz to fund its day to day obligations. Substantially all of the activities of Metabizz are conducted for our benefit,
as evidenced by the fact that the operations of Metabizz consists of development of software and technologies to be used by SmarterVerse
and we provide working capital to Metabizz to pay employees and independent contractors to perform the development services on our behalf.
Repayment of the working capital advances is not guaranteed by the equity owner of Metabizz. Creditors of Metabizz do not have recourse
to our general credit. Accordingly, we are required to consolidate the assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses of Metabizz. Additionally,
the managing partner of Metabizz is also the Chief Innovation Officer of SmarterVerse.
23
Short-term
investments
Our
portfolio of short-term investments consists of marketable debt securities which are comprised solely of that are highly rated U.S. government
securities with maturities of more than three months, but less than one year. We classify these as available-for-sale at purchase date
and will reevaluate such designation at each period end date. We may sell these marketable debt securities prior to their stated maturities
depending upon changing liquidity requirements. These debt securities are classified as current assets in the consolidated balance sheet
and recorded at fair value, with unrealized gains or losses included in accumulated other comprehensive gain (loss) and as a component
of the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Gains and losses are recognized when realized. Gains and losses are determined
using the specific identification method and are reported in other income (expense), net in the consolidated statements of operations.
Short-term investments are carried at fair value, which is based on quoted market prices for such securities, if available, or is estimated
on the basis of quoted market prices of financial instruments with similar characteristics.
An
impairment loss may be recognized when the decline in fair value of the debt securities is determined to be other-than-temporary. We
evaluate our investments for other-than-temporary declines in fair value below the cost basis each quarter, or whenever events or changes
in circumstances indicate that the cost basis of the short-term investments may not be recoverable. The evaluation is based on a number
of factors, including the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been below the cost basis, as well as adverse conditions
related specifically to the security, such as any changes to the credit rating of the security and the intent to sell or whether we will
more likely than not be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis.
Accounting
for digital currencies and other digital assets
We
may purchase Ethereum cryptocurrency (“Ethereum”) and other digital assets and may accept Ethereum as a form of payment
for non-fungible tokens sales (NFTs). We account for these digital assets held as the result of the purchase or receipt of Ethereum
and other digital assets, as indefinite-lived intangible assets in accordance with ASC 350, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other
(“ASC 350”). We have ownership of and control over our digital currencies and digital assets and we may use third-party
custodial services to secure them. The digital currencies and digital assets are initially recorded at cost and are subsequently
remeasured, net of any impairment losses incurred since acquisition. We believe that digital currencies and other digital assets
meet the definition of indefinite-lived intangible assets and accounts for them at historical cost less impairment, applying the
guidance in ASC 350. We monitor any standard-setting, regulatory or technological developments that may affect our accounting for
digital currencies or our controls and processes related to digital currencies. Digital currencies are included in long-term assets
in the consolidated balance sheet.
We
determine the fair value of its digital currencies and other digital assets on a nonrecurring basis in accordance with ASC 820, Fair
Value Measurement, based on quoted prices on the active exchange(s) that it has determined is the principal market for Ethereum (Level
1 inputs) and other digital assets. We perform an analysis each quarter to identify whether events or changes in circumstances, principally
decreases in the quoted prices on active exchanges, indicate that it is more likely than not that its digital assets are impaired. In
determining if an impairment has occurred, we consider the lowest market price quoted on an active exchange since acquiring the respective
digital asset. If the then current carrying value of a digital asset exceeds the fair value, an impairment loss has occurred with respect
to those digital assets in the amount equal to the difference between their carrying values and the fair value. The impaired digital
assets are written down to their fair value at the time of impairment and this new cost basis will not be adjusted upward for any subsequent
increase in fair value. Gains are not recorded until realized upon sale, at which point they are presented net of any impairment losses
for the same digital assets held. In determining the gain or loss to be recognized upon sale, we calculate the difference between the
sales price and carrying value of the digital assets sold immediately prior to sale. Impairment losses and gains or losses on sales are
recognized within operating expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023, we
recorded an impairment loss of $23,381.
Capitalized
internal-use software costs
Costs
incurred to develop internal-use software including Metaverse software development, are expensed as incurred during the preliminary project
stage. Internal-use software development costs are capitalized during the application development stage, which is after: (i) the preliminary
project stage is completed; and (ii) management authorizes and commits to funding the project and it is probable the project will be
completed and used to perform the function intended. Capitalization ceases at the point the software project is substantially complete
and ready for its intended use, and after all substantial testing is completed. Upgrades and enhancements are capitalized if it is probable
that those expenditures will result in additional functionality. Amortization is provided for on a straight-line basis over the expected
useful life of the internal-use software development costs and related upgrades and enhancements. When existing software is replaced
with new software, the unamortized costs of the old software are expensed when the new software is ready for its intended use. Through
September 30, 2023, software development costs incurred were expensed since the Metaverse software development project is in the preliminary
project stage. Such costs are included in research and development costs on the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.
Revenue
recognition
We
recognize revenue in accordance with ASC Topic 606 Revenue from Contracts with Customers, which requires revenue to be recognized in
a manner that depicts the transfer of goods or services to customers in amounts that reflect the consideration to which the entity expects
to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. We recognize revenues from subscription fees on our messaging application in
the month they are earned. Annual and lifetime subscription payments received that are related to future periods are recorded as deferred
revenue to be recognized as revenues over the contract term or period. Lifetime subscriptions are being recognized to revenues over a
12-month period.
Our
NFT revenues were generated from the sale of NFTs. We accepted Ethereum as a form of payment for NFT sales. Our NFTs exist on the Ethereum
Blockchain under our VenVūū brand. VenVūū is a Metaverse advertising platform that allows advertisers and Metaverse
landowners to connect using our proprietary Metaverse ad network and dynamic NFT technology. We used the NFT exchange, OpenSea, to facilitate
its sales of NFTs. Through OpenSea, we have custody and control of the NFT prior to the delivery to the customer and records revenue
at a point in time when the NFT is delivered to the customer and the customer pays. We have no obligations for returns, refunds or warranty
after the NFT sale. The value of the sale is determined based on the value of the Ethereum crypto currency received as consideration.
Each NFT that is generated produces a unique identifying code. We do not expect to generate revenues from the sale of NFT’s in
the future.
24
Stock-based
compensation
Stock-based
compensation is accounted for based on the requirements of the Share-Based Payment Topic of ASC 718, “Compensation — Stock
Compensation” (“ASC 718”), which requires recognition in the financial statements of the cost of employee, non-employee
and director services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments over the period the employee, non-employee or director
is required to perform the services in exchange for the award (presumptively, the vesting period). ASC 718 also requires measurement
of the cost of employee, non-employee, and director services received in exchange for an award based on the grant-date fair value of
the award. We have elected to account for forfeitures as they occur.
Research
and development
Research
and development costs incurred in the development of our products are expensed as incurred and includes costs such as outside development
costs and other allocated costs incurred.
Leases
We
applied ASC Topic 842, Leases (Topic 842) to arrangements with lease terms of 12 months or more. Operating lease right of use assets
(“ROU”) represents the right to use the leased asset for the lease term and operating lease liabilities are recognized based
on the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term at commencement date. As most leases do not provide an
implicit rate, we use an incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the adoption date in determining the present
value of future payments. Lease expense for minimum lease payments is amortized on a straight-line basis over the lease term and is included
in general and administrative expenses in the statements of operations.
Recently
Issued Accounting Pronouncements
Refer
to the notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements.
Results
of Operations
Revenue
During
the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, we generated revenue in the amount of $175 and $501, respectively, from subscriptions.
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2022, we generated revenue in the amount of $3,540 and $42,296, respectively. For the
three months ended September 30, 2022, revenue consisted of revenue from subscriptions of $3,540. For the nine months ended September
30, 2022, revenue consisted of revenue from subscriptions of $5,902 and revenue from the sale of our Venvuu NFT of $36,394.
Operating
Expenses
For
the three months ended September 30, 2023, operating expenses amounted to $2,542,326 as compared to $2,685,450 for the three months ended
September 30 2022, a decrease of $143,124, or 5.3%. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, operating expenses amounted to $7,355,729
as compared to $8,671,451 for the nine months ended September 30, 2022, a decrease of $1,315,722, or 14.7%.
For
the three and nine months ended September 30 2023 and 2022, operating expenses consisted of the following:
Three Months Ended
September 30,
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
2023
2022
2023
2022
Compensation
and related expenses
$ 1,247,302
$ 1,639,886
$ 4,177,032
$ 5,015,827
Marketing
and advertising expenses
219,008
65,181
379,410
645,825
Professional
and consulting expenses
483,319
482,338
1,060,396
1,947,535
Research
and development
380,017
258,957
1,064,049
258,957
General
and administrative expenses
212,680
232,064
651,461
712,103
Impairment
loss on digital currencies and other digital assets
-
7,024
23,381
91,204
Total
$ 2,542,326
$ 2,685,450
$ 7,355,729
$ 8,671,451
Compensation
and related expenses
Compensation
and related expenses include salaries, stock-based compensation, health insurance and other benefits.
During
the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, compensation and related expenses amounted to $1,247,302 and $1,639,886, respectively,
a decrease of $392,584, or 23.9%. The decrease was attributable to an increase in other compensation expense of $555,807, offset by a
decrease in stock-based compensation of $163,223.
During
the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, compensation and related expenses amounted to $4,177,032 and $5,015,827, respectively,
a decrease of $838,795, or 16.7%. The decrease was attributable to a decrease in stock-based compensation of $402,570 and a decrease
in other compensation and other related expenses of $436,225.
25
Marketing
and advertising expenses
During
the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, marketing and advertising expenses amounted to $219,008 and $65,181, respectively,
an increase of $153,827, or 236.0% During the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, marketing and advertising expenses amounted
to $379,410 and $645,825, respectively, a decrease of $266,415, or 41.2%, primarily due to an overall decrease in promotions, branding
and digital marketing strategies and social media ads.
Professional
and consulting expenses
During
the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, we reported professional and consulting expenses of $483,319 and $482,338, respectively,
an increase of $981, or 0.2%.
During
the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, we reported professional and consulting expenses of $1,060,396 and $1,947,535, respectively,
a decrease of $887,139, or 45.6%. The decrease is attributable to a decrease in consulting fees of $67,144, a decrease in investor relations
fees of $310,200, a decrease in legal fees of $227,462, and a decrease in recruiting fees of $322,000, offset be an increase in other
professional fees of $39,667.
Research
and development costs
During
the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, we incurred $380,017 and $258,957 in research and development costs, an increase
of $121,060, or 46.7%. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, we incurred $1,064,049 and $258,957 in research and
development costs, an increase of $805,092, or 310.9%. Research and development costs were incurred in connection with our Metaverse
software development project, including the development of The Habytat which is in the preliminary stage.
General
and administrative expenses
During
the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, general and administrative expenses amounted to $212,680 and $232,064, a decrease
of $19,384, or 8.3%. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, general and administrative expenses amounted to $651,461
and $712,103, a decrease of $60,642, or 8.5%. The decreases are primarily attributable to a decrease in conference fees and a decrease
in other general and administrative expenses, offset by an increase in travel expense.
Impairment
loss on digital currencies and other digital assets
During
the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, operating expenses included an impairment charge related to the write down of digital
assets of $0 and $7,024, respectively. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, operating expenses included an impairment
charge related to the write down of digital assets of $23,381 and $91,204, respectively.
Loss
from Operations
During
the three months ended September 30, 2023, loss from operation amounted to $2,542,151 as compared to $2,681,910 during the three months
ended September 30, 2022, a decrease of $139,759, or 5.2%. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023, loss from operation amounted
to $7,355,228 as compared to $8,629,155 during the nine months ended September 30, 2022, a decrease of $1,273,927, or 14.7%.
Other
Income (Expense)
Other
income (expenses) primarily consisted of interest income, gain on initial consolidation of variable interest entities, and realized gain
on short-term investments and unrealized gains or losses on short-term investments. During the three months ended September 30, 2023
and 2022, we reported other income (expenses) of $177,571 and $25,205, respectively. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023
and 2022, we reported other income (expenses) of $304,204 and $24,892, respectively. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023,
other income primarily consisted of interest income of $6,058, gain on initial consolidation of variable interest entities of $106,538,
a realized gain on short-term investments of $239,382, and an unrealized loss on short-term investments of $47,672. During the nine months
ended September 30, 2022, other income primarily consisted of interest income of $8,077, a realized gain on short-term investments of
$9,702, and an unrealized gain on short-term investments of $7,113.
Net
Loss
Due
to the foregoing reasons, during the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, our net loss was $2,364,580, or $(1.13) per common
share (basic and diluted) and $2,656,705, or $(1.29) per common share (basic and diluted), respectively, a decrease of $292,125, or 11.0%.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, our net loss was $7,051,024, or $(3.40) per common share (basic and diluted)
and $8,604,263, or ($4.32) per common share (basic and diluted), respectively, a decrease of $1,553,239, or 18.0%.
Liquidity,
Capital Resources and Plan of Operations
As
of September 30, 2023, we had cash and cash equivalents of $672,086 and short-term investments of $6,826,759. Short-term investments
include U.S. Treasury bills that are all highly rated and have initial maturities between four and twelve months.
As
reflected in the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, we incurred a
net loss of $7,051,024 and used cash in operations of $5,159,510. As of September 30, 2023, we have an accumulated deficit of $46,780,142
and have generated minimal revenues since inception. As of September 30, 2023, we had working capital of $7,307,166, including cash of
$672,086 and short-term investments of $6,826,759. These events served to mitigate the conditions that historically raised substantial
doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. We believe our cash and short-term investments will provide sufficient cash flows
to meet our obligations for a minimum of twelve months from the date of this filing.
26
Our
primary uses of cash have been for compensation and related expenses, fees paid to third parties for professional services, marketing
and advertising expenses, and general and administrative expenses. All funds received have been expended in the furtherance of growing
the business. We received funds from the sale of our common stock and the exercise of warrants. The following trends are reasonably likely
to result in changes in our liquidity over the near to long term:
●
An
increase in working capital requirements to finance our current business,
●
Cost
of research and development,
●
Addition
of administrative, technical and sales personnel as the business grows, and
●
The
cost of being a public company.
Cash
Flow Activities for the Nine Months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022
Cash
Flows from Operating Activities
Net
cash used in operating activities totaled $5,159,510 and $5,727,584 for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, and 2022, respectively,
a decrease of $568,074.
Net
cash flow used in operating activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 primarily reflected a net loss of $7,051,0241 adjusted
for the add-back (reduction) of non-cash items consisting of depreciation of $20,687, amortization of right of use assets of $44,272,
accretion of stock-based stock option and common stock expense of $2,183,835, a non-cash gain from initial consolidation of variable
interest entities of $(106,568), impairment loss on digital assets of $23,381, and net unrealized and realized gain on short-term investments
of $191,710, offset by changes in operating assets and liabilities primarily consisting of a decrease in accounts receivable –
related party of $42,000, an increase in prepaid expenses of $61,456, a decrease in accounts payable and accrued expenses of $14,283,
and a decrease in operating lease liabilities of $48,808.
Net
cash flow used in operating activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2022 primarily reflected a net loss of $8,604,263 adjusted
for the add-back of non-cash items consisting of depreciation and amortization of $67,227, stock-based compensation and professional
fees from the accretion of stock-based stock option and common stock expense of $2,671,128, unrealized and realized gains on short-term
investments, and an impairment loss on digital currencies and other digital assets of $91,204, offset by changes in operating assets
and liabilities primarily consisting of a decrease in prepaid expenses of $117,396, a decrease in accounts payable and accrued expenses
of $23,386 and a decrease in operating lease liability of $39,027.
Cash
Flows from Investing Activities
Net
cash provided by (used in) investing activities amounted to $4,496,890 and $(8,242,060) for the nine months ended September 30, 2023
and 2022, respectively.
During
the nine months ended September 30, 2023, we purchased short-term investments of $5,363,163 and received gross proceeds from the sale
of short-term investments of $9,845,000. Additionally, we received $64,538 in cash upon initial consolidation of variable interest entities
and purchased property and equipment of $49,485.
During
the nine months ended September 30, 2022, we purchased property and equipment of $44,475, purchased digital currencies and other digital
assets of $233,245, and we purchased short-term investments of $14,394,340 and received gross proceeds from the sale of short-term investments
of $6,430,000.
Cash
Flows from Financing Activities
Net
cash used in financing activities totaled approximately $398,284 and $203 for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
During
the nine months ended September 30, 2023, we repaid related party advances of $1,315, we used cash of $397,969 to purchase 66,944 treasury
stock at an average price of $5.94 per share, and we receive $1,000 from the sale of Series B preferred stock.
During
the nine months ended September 30, 2022, we repaid related party advances of $203.
Off-Balance
Sheet Arrangements
We
have not entered into any other financial guarantees or other commitments to guarantee the payment obligations of any third parties.
We have not entered into any derivative contracts that are indexed to our shares and classified as shareholders’ equity or that
are not reflected in our financial statements. Furthermore, we do not have any retained or contingent interest in assets transferred
to an unconsolidated entity that serves as credit, liquidity or market risk support to such entity. We do not have any variable interest
in any unconsolidated entity that provides financing, liquidity, market risk or credit support to us or engages in leasing, hedging or
research and development services with us.
27
ITEM
3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
We
are a “smaller reporting company,” as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act and are not required to provide the information
required by this Item.
ITEM
4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.
Evaluation
of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Our
principal executive officer and principal financial officer, after evaluating the effectiveness of the Company’s “disclosure
controls and procedures” (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) as of September 30, 2023, the end of the period
covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective such that
the information required to be disclosed by us in reports filed under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported
within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and (ii) accumulated and communicated to our management, including
our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding disclosure.
Management’s
Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our
management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as such term is defined
in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed under the supervision and with the participation
of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, to provide reasonable assurance regarding
the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of consolidated financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
GAAP. All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined
to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.
As
of September 30, 2023, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer
and principal financial officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based
on the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control-Integrated Framework - 2013. Based on this
assessment, our management concluded that, as of September 30, 2023, our internal control over financial reporting was not effective
because it identified a material weakness. A material weakness is a significant deficiency or a combination of significant deficiencies
in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the annual or
interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.
●
We
lack segregation of duties within accounting functions duties as a result of our limited financial resources to support hiring of
personnel.
●
We
lack control over the custody of and accounting for digital currencies and other digital assets accounts.
●
The
lack of multiples levels of management review on complex business, accounting and financial reporting issues.
●
We
have not implemented adequate system and manual controls.
Remediation
Plans
Management
is committed to the remediation of the material weaknesses described above, as well as the improvement of the Company’s overall
internal control over financial reporting. Management plans on implementing actions to remediate the underlying causes of the control
deficiencies that gave rise to the material weaknesses. Remediation efforts include the possible hiring of additional accounting and
finance personnel with appropriate expertise to strengthen overall controls and the establishment of disbursement review and approval
processes. The material weaknesses will not be considered remediated until management designs and implements effective controls that
operate for a sufficient period of time and management has concluded, through testing, that these controls are effective. Our management
will monitor the effectiveness of our remediation plan and will make changes management determines to be appropriate. Until the
remediation efforts (including any additional measures management identifies as necessary) are completed, the material weaknesses described
above will continue to exist.
Changes
in Internal Control over Financial Reporting.
There
have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during our most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected,
or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Limitations
on Effectiveness of Controls and Procedures
In
designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how
well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable 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
judgment in evaluating the benefits of possible controls and procedures relative to their costs.
28
PART
II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM
1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
From
time to time, we may become involved in various lawsuits and legal proceedings, which arise in the ordinary course of business. Litigation
is subject to inherent uncertainties, and an adverse result in these or other matters may arise from time to time that may harm our business.
We are currently not aware of any such legal proceedings or claims that will have, individually or in the aggregate, a material adverse
effect on our business, financial condition or operating results.
ITEM
1A. RISK FACTORS.
Risk
factors that affect our business and financial results are discussed in Part I, Item 1A “Risk Factors,” in our Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 as filed with the SEC on March 31, 2023 (“Annual Report”). Except as set
forth below, there have been no material changes in our risk factors from those previously disclosed in our Annual Report. You should
carefully consider the risks described in our Annual Report, which could materially affect our business, financial condition or future
results. The risks described in our Annual Report are not the only risks we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known
to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, and/or operating
results. If any of the risks actually occur, our business, financial condition, and/or results of operations could be negatively affected.
If
we fail to comply with the continued listing requirements of The Nasdaq Capital Market, our common stock may be delisted and the price
of our common stock and our ability to access the capital markets could be negatively impacted.
On
October 14, 2022, we were notified (the “Notification Letter”) by the Staff of the Listing Qualifications Department (the
“Staff”) of The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) that based on the previous 30 consecutive business days, our
listed security no longer met the minimum $1 bid price per share requirement. Therefore, in accordance with the Nasdaq Listing Rules
(the “Rules”), the we were provided 180 calendar days, or until April 12, 2023, to regain compliance, and that if we were
unable to regain compliance by April 12, 2023, an additional 180-days may be granted, so long as we meet the Nasdaq continued listing
requirements (except for the bid price requirement) and notify Nasdaq in writing of our intention to cure the deficiency during the second
compliance period.
In
accordance with the Notification Letter and Rules, on April 7, 2023, we notified Nasdaq in writing of our intention to cure the deficiency
and requested an additional 180-calendar days in order to do so. On April 13, 2023, we were notified (the “Second Notification
Letter”) by the Staff that we are eligible for an additional 180 calendar day period, or until October 9, 2023 to regain compliance
and cure the deficiency, so long as we meet the Nasdaq continued listing requirements (except for the bid price requirement). On October
4, 2023, the Company received notice from Nasdaq that the Company has regained compliance with the minimum bid price requirement
for continued listing on The Nasdaq Capital Market.
ITEM
2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS.
On
July 25, 2023, we issued 19,802 of our common shares pursuant to a one-year consulting agreement. These shares were valued at $100,000,
or a per share price of $5.05, based on the quoted closing price of the Company’s common stock on the measurement date.
On
August 4, 2023, we issued 2,000,000 of Series B preferred stock for aggregate cash of $1,000.
The
above securities were issued in reliance upon the exemptions provided by Section 4(a)(2) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
Issuer
Purchases of Equity Securities
On
January 6, 2023, our Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase plan to repurchase up to $2,000,000 of our issued and outstanding
common stock, from time to time, with such program to be in place until December 31, 2023. Through September 30, 2023, the Company purchased
66,944 shares of its common stock for $397,969, or at an average price of $5.94 per share, which has been reflected as treasury stock
on the accompanying unaudited consolidated balance sheet on September 30, 2023.
We
did not have any common stock repurchases during the quarterly period ended September 30, 2023.
29
ITEM
3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES.
None.
ITEM
4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES.
Not
applicable.
ITEM
5. OTHER INFORMATION.
None.
ITEM
6. EXHIBITS.
Exhibit No.
Description
of Exhibits
3.1*
Certificate
of Correction filed on November 9, 2023
4.1*
Amended
and Restated 2021 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan
31.1*
Certification
of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Adopted Pursuant
to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2*
Certification
of Principal Financial and Accounting Officer Pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1**
Certification
of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of
2002
32.2**
Certification
of Principal Financial and Accounting Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted
Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
101.INS*
Inline
XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH*
Inline
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL*
Inline
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF*
Inline
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB*
Inline
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE
*
Inline
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
104*
Cover
Page Interactive Data File - the cover page from the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September
30, 2023, is formatted in Inline XBRL
*
Filed
herewith.
**
Furnished
herewith.
30
SIGNATURES
Pursuant
to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf
by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
DATCHAT,
INC.
Dated:
November 13, 2023
/s/
Darin Myman
Darin
Myman
Chief
Executive Officer and Director
(Principal
Executive Officer)
Dated:
November 13, 2023
/s/
Brett Blumberg
Brett
Blumberg
Chief
Financial Officer
(Principal
Financial and Accounting Officer)
31
Text extracted from the filing as submitted to EDGAR. Formatting, tables and exhibits are simplified for reading; the original document is authoritative for anything you rely on.