As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 17, 2005

Registration No. 333-       

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM S-8

REGISTRATION STATEMENT
Under The Securities Act of 1933

PIXELWORKS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

Oregon

91-1761992

(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)

(IRS Employer
Identification Number)

 

8100 SW Nyberg Road
Tualatin, Oregon 97062
(503) 454-1750

(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of registrant’s principal executive offices)

Equator Technologies, Inc. 1996 Stock Option Plan, as amended
Christopher H. Basoglu Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement
Christopher H. Basoglu Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement
Christopher H. Basoglu Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement
Richard E. Christopher Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement
 Richard E. Christopher Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement
Richard E. Christopher Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement
Richard E. Christopher Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement
Michael Myhre Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement
Ted Niday Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement
Ted Niday Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement
 Ted Niday Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement
John O’Donnell Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement
John O’Donnell Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement
John O’Donnell Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement
John O’Donnell Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement

(Full title of the Plan)

Allen H. Alley
President and Chief Executive Officer
Pixelworks, Inc.
8100 SW Nyberg Road
Tualatin, Oregon 97062
(503) 454-1750

(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)

With copies to:

Alice Cuprill-Comas, Esq.
Ater Wynne LLP
222 S.W. Columbia, Suite 1800
Portland, Oregon 97201
(503) 226-1191

CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title of Securities to Be Registered

 

 

Amount to Be
Registered(1)

 

 

Proposed
Maximum
Offering
Price Per
Share(2)

 

 

Proposed
Maximum
Aggregate
Offering Price(2)

 

 

Amount of
Registration Fee

Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share

 

 

1,264,213 shares

 

 

$8.75

 

 

$11,061,864

 

 

$1,302.00

(1)             This Registration Statement shall also cover any additional shares of Common Stock which may become issuable under the plans being registered pursuant to this Registration Statement by reason of any stock dividend, stock split, recapitalization or any other similar transaction effected without receipt of consideration which results in an increase in the number of the Registrant’s outstanding shares of Common Stock.

(2)             Estimated solely for the purpose of calculating the registration fee. Pursuant to Rule 457(c) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, based on the average of the high and low sales prices of the Registrant’s Common Stock as reported on the Nasdaq National Market System on June 13, 2005.

This Registration Statement shall become effective upon filing in accordance with Rule 462(a) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 




PART I
INFORMATION REQUIRED TO BE IN THE SECTION 10(a) PROSPECTUS

Item 1.                        Plan Information

The documents containing the information specified in Part I, Item 1 of Form S-8 have been or will be sent or given to employees as specified by Rule 428(b) under the Securities Act.

Item 2.                        Registrant Information and Employee Plan Annual Information

The documents containing the information specified in Part I, Item 2 of Form S-8 have been or will be sent or given to employees as specified by Rule 428(b) under the Securities Act.

PART II
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT

Item 3.                        Incorporation of Documents by Reference

The Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) requires the Registrant to “incorporate by reference” certain of its publicly filed documents into this prospectus, which means that information included in those documents is considered part of this prospectus. Information that Registrant files with the Commission after the effective date of this prospectus will automatically update and supersede this information. We incorporate by reference the documents listed below and any future filings made with the Commission under Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the “Exchange Act”), until we terminate the effectiveness of this Registration Statement.

The following documents filed with the Commission are hereby incorporated by reference:

(a)            Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004, as filed on March 15, 2005 (File No. 000-30269), which contains audited financial statements for its latest fiscal year for which such statements have been filed.

(b)(1)      Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal Quarter ended March 31, 2005, as filed on May 9, 2005 (File No. 000-30269).

(b)(2)      Registrant’s Current Reports on Form 8-K as filed on April 28, 2005, May 3, 2005, May 13, 2005 and June 14, 2005.

(c)            The description of Registrant’s Common Stock contained in its Registration Statement on Form 8-A filed with the SEC on April 10, 2000.

(d)            All documents filed by Registrant with the Commission pursuant to Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 and 15(d) of the Exchange Act after the date of this Registration Statement and before the date of filing of a post-effective amendment to this Registration Statement stating that all securities offered have been sold or deregistering all securities that remain unsold.

Registrant will furnish without charge, on written or oral request, a copy of any or all of the documents incorporated by reference, other than exhibits to those documents. You should direct any requests for documents to Investor Relations, Pixelworks, Inc., 8100 SW Nyberg Road, Tualatin, Oregon 97062.

Item 4.                        Description of Securities

Not applicable.

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Item 5.                        Interests of Named Experts and Counsel

Not applicable.

Item 6.                        Indemnification of Directors and Officers

As an Oregon corporation the Registrant is subject to the Oregon Business Corporation Act (the “OBCA”) and the exculpation from liability and indemnification provisions contained therein. Pursuant to Section 60.047(2) of the OBCA, Article V of the Registrant’s Sixth Restated and Amended Articles of Incorporation (the “Restated Articles”) eliminates the liability of the Registrant’s directors to the Registrant or its shareholders, except for any liability related to breach of the duty of loyalty, actions not in good faith and certain other liabilities.

Section 60.387 et seq. of the OBCA allows corporations to indemnify their directors and officers against liability where the director or officer has acted in good faith and with a reasonable belief that actions taken were in the best interests of the corporation or at least not adverse to the corporation’s best interests and, if in a criminal proceeding, the individual had no reasonable cause to believe the conduct in question was unlawful. Under the OBCA, corporations may not indemnify against liability in connection with a claim by or in the right of the corporation but may indemnify against the reasonable expenses associated with such claims. Corporations may not indemnify against breaches of the duty of loyalty. The OBCA mandates indemnifications against all reasonable expenses incurred in the successful defense of any claim made or threatened whether or not such claim was by or in the right of the corporation. Finally, a court may order indemnification if it determines that the director or officer is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnification in view of all the relevant circumstances, whether or not the director or officer met the good faith and reasonable belief standards of conduct set forth in the statute.

The OBCA also provides that the statutory indemnification provisions are not deemed exclusive of any other rights to which directors or officers may be entitled under a corporation’s articles of incorporation or bylaws, any agreement, general or specific action of the board of directors, vote of shareholders or otherwise.

The Registrant has entered into indemnity agreements with each of its executive officers and directors. Each agreement provides for indemnification of the indemnitee to the fullest extent by law.

Item 7.                        Exemption From Registration Claimed

Not applicable.

Item 8.                        Exhibits

Exhibit
Number

 

Exhibit

5.1

 

Opinion of Ater Wynne LLP as to the legality of the securities being registered

23.1

 

Consent of Ater Wynne LLP (included in legal opinion filed as Exhibit 5.1)

23.2

 

Consent of KPMG LLP

24.1

 

Powers of Attorney (included in signature page of the Registration Statement)

99.1

 

Equator Technologies, Inc. 1996 Stock Option Plan, as amended

99.2

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated April 18, 2002, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Christopher H. Basoglu

99.3

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated April 8, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Christopher H. Basoglu

3




 

99.4

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated November 11, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Christopher H. Basoglu

99.5

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated April 18, 2002, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Richard E. Christopher

99.6

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated April 8, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Richard E. Christopher

99.7

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated November 11, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Richard E. Christopher

99.8

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated September 15, 2004, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Richard E. Christopher

99.9

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated November 11, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Michael Myhre

99.10

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated July 18, 2002, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Tedford Niday

99.11

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated April 8, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Tedford Niday

99.12

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated November 11, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Tedford Niday

99.13

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated March 29, 2001, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and John O’Donnell

99.14

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated July 18, 2002, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and John O’Donnell

99.15

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated April 8, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and John O’Donnell

99.16

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated November 11, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and John O’Donnell

 

Item 9.                        Undertakings

The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes:

(1)   To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to this Registration Statement:

(i)    to include any prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933;

(ii)   to reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after the effective date of this Registration Statement (or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in this Registration Statement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities offered would not exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of prospectus filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more than a 20 percent change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the “Calculation of Registration Fee” table in the effective registration statement;

4




(iii)  to include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in this Registration Statement or any material change to such information in this Registration Statement.

(2)   That, for the purpose of determining liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

(3)   To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering.

(4)   That, for purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing of the Registrant’s annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act (and, where applicable, each filing of an employee benefit plan’s annual report pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act) that is incorporated by reference in this Registration Statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

(5)   Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such a director, officer or controlling person in connection with securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

5




SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form S-8 and has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto authorized, in the City of Tualatin, State of Oregon, on June 17, 2005.

PIXELWORKS, INC.

 

By

/s/ ALLEN H. ALLEY

 

Allen H. Alley

 

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Allen H. Alley and Jeffrey B. Bouchard, and each of them singly, as true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities to sign the registration statement filed herewith and any or all amendments to said registration statement (including post-effective amendments), and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the foregoing, as fully to all intents and purposes as he or she might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or any of them, or their or his substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

Witness our hands on the date set forth below.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this registration statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated as of June 17, 2005.

/s/ ALLEN H. ALLEY

 

Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer

Allen H. Alley

 

 

/s/ JEFFREY B. BOUCHARD

 

Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer

Jeffrey B. Bouchard

 

 

/s/ MARK CHRISTENSEN

 

Director

Mark Christensen

 

 

/s/ FRANK GILL

 

Director

Frank Gill

 

 

/s/ C. SCOTT GIBSON

 

Director

C. Scott Gibson

 

 

/s/ BRUCE WALICEK

 

Director

Bruce Walicek

 

 

 

6




INDEX TO EXHIBITS

Exhibit
Number

 

 

Exhibit

5.1

 

Opinion of Ater Wynne LLP as to the legality of the securities being registered

 

23.1

 

Consent of Ater Wynne LLP (included in legal opinion filed as Exhibit 5.1)

 

23.2

 

Consent of KPMG LLP

 

24.1

 

Powers of Attorney (included in signature page of the Registration Statement)

 

99.1

 

Equator Technologies, Inc. 1996 Stock Option Plan, as amended

 

99.2

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated April 18, 2002, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Christopher H. Basoglu

 

99.3

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated April 8, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Christopher H. Basoglu

 

99.4

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated November 11, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Christopher H. Basoglu

 

99.5

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated April 18, 2002, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Richard E. Christopher

 

99.6

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated April 8, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Richard E. Christopher

 

99.7

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated November 11, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Richard E. Christopher

 

99.8

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated September 15, 2004, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Richard E. Christopher

 

99.9

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated November 11, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Michael Myhre

 

99.10

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated July 18, 2002, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Tedford Niday

 

99.11

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated April 8, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Tedford Niday

 

99.12

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated November 11, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and Tedford Niday

 

99.13

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated March 29, 2001, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and John O’Donnell

 

99.14

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated July 18, 2002, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and John O’Donnell

 

99.15

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated April 8, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and John O’Donnell

 

99.16

 

Stock Option Agreement, dated November 11, 2003, between Equator Technologies, Inc. and John O’Donnell

 

 



Exhibit 5.1

 

Suite 1800

222 S.W. Columbia

Portland, OR 97201-6618

503-226-1191

Fax 503-226-0079

www.aterwynne.com

 

 

June 17, 2005

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

In connection with the registration of 1,264,213 shares of common stock (the “Common Stock”), of Pixelworks, Inc., an Oregon corporation (the “Company”), under the Registration Statement on Form S-8 to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 17, 2005, and the proposed offer and sale of the Common Stock pursuant to the terms of the Equator Technologies, Inc. 1996 Stock Option Plan, as amended; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement, dated April 18, 2002, by and between Equator Technologies, Inc. (“Equator”) and Christopher H. Basoglu; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement, dated April 8, 2003, by and between Equator and Christopher H. Basoglu; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement, dated November 11, 2003, by and between Equator and Christopher H. Basoglu; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement, dated April 18, 2002, by and between Equator and Richard E. Christopher; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement, dated April 8, 2003, by and between Equator and Richard E. Christopher; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement, dated November 11, 2003, by and between Equator and Richard E. Christopher; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement, dated September 15, 2004, by and between Equator and Richard E. Christopher; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement, dated November 11, 2003, by and between Equator and Michael Myhre; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement, dated July 18, 2002, by and between Equator and Ted Niday; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement, dated April 8, 2003, by and between Equator and Ted Niday; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement, dated November 11, 2003, by and between Equator and Ted Niday; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement, dated March 29, 2001, by and between Equator and John O’Donnell; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement, dated July 18, 2002, by and between Equator and John O’Donnell; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement, dated April 8, 2003, by and between Equator and John O’Donnell; Stand-Alone Stock Option Agreement dated November 11, 2003, by and between Equator and John O’Donnell, (taken together, the “Plans”), we have examined such corporate records, certificates of public officials and officers of the Company and other documents as we have considered necessary or proper for the purpose of this opinion.

 

Based on the foregoing and having regard to legal issues which we deem relevant, it is our opinion that the shares of Common Stock to be offered pursuant to the Plans have been duly authorized and when such shares have been delivered against payment therefor as contemplated by the Plans, will be validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable.

 

 

MENLO PARK

PORTLAND

SEATTLE

 



 

 

 

June 17, 2005

 

We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the above-mentioned Registration Statement. In giving such consent, we do not hereby admit that we are in the category of persons whose consent is required to be filed pursuant to Section 7 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the rules thereunder.

 

 

 

Very truly yours,

 

 

 

 

 

ATER WYNNE LLP

 

2


Exhibit 23.2

 

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

The Board of Directors and Shareholders of

Pixelworks, Inc.:

 

We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement on Form S-8 of Pixelworks, Inc. of our reports dated March 15, 2005, with respect to the consolidated balance sheets of Pixelworks, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2004 and 2003, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2004, management’s assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2004, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2004, which reports appear in the December 31, 2004 annual report on Form 10-K of Pixelworks, Inc.

 

Our report dated March 15, 2005, on management’s assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2004, expresses our opinion that Pixelworks, Inc. did not maintain effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2004 because of the effect of a material weakness on the achievement of the objectives of the control criteria and contains an explanatory paragraph that states that management identified a material weakness in internal control over financial reporting which resulted from the inadequate design of internal control related to management’s review of the Company’s accounting for income taxes and related disclosures.

 

/s/ KPMG LLP

 

 

Portland, Oregon

June 17, 2005

 


Exhibit 99.1

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
1996 STOCK OPTION PLAN
ADOPTED OCTOBER 13, 1996
As Amended on September 11, 1997

As Amended on April 3, 2000
As Amended on September 1, 2000
As Amended on March 20, 2003
As Amended on June 20, 2003
As Amended on March 18, 2004
As Amended September 15, 2004

 

1.                                      PURPOSES.

 

(a)                                  The purpose of the Plan is to provide a means by which selected Employees and Directors of and Consultants to the Company, and its Affiliates, may be given an opportunity to purchase stock of the Company.

 

(b)                                  The Company, by means of the Plan, seeks to retain the services of persons who are now Employees or Directors of or Consultants to the Company or its Affiliates, to secure and retain the services of new Employees, Directors and Consultants, and to provide incentives for such persons to exert maximum efforts for the success of the Company and its Affiliates.

 

(c)                                  The Company intends that the Options issued under the Plan shall, in the discretion of the Board or any Committee to which responsibility for administration of the Plan has been delegated pursuant to subsection 3(c), be either Incentive Stock Options or Nonstatutory Stock Options.  All Options shall be separately designated Incentive Stock Options or Nonstatutory Stock Options at the time of grant, and in such form as issued pursuant to Section 6, and a separate certificate or certificates will be issued for shares purchased on exercise of each type of Option.

 

2.                                      DEFINITIONS.

 

(a)                                  Affiliate” means any parent corporation, or subsidiary corporation, whether now or hereafter existing, as those terms are defined in Sections 424(e) and (f) respectively, of the Code.

 

(b)                                  Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company.

 

(c)                                  Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as mended.

 

(d)                                  Committee” means a Committee appointed by the Board in accordance with subsection 3(c) of the Plan.

 

(e)                                  Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(f)                                    Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or an Affiliate to render consulting services and who is compensated for such services, provided

 

1



 

that the term “Consultant” shall not include Directors who are paid only a director’s fee by the Company or who are not compensated by the Company for their services as Directors.

 

(g)                                 Continuous Status as an Employee, Director or Consultant” means that the service of an individual to the Company, whether as an Employee, Director or Consultant, is not interrupted or terminated.  The Board, in its sole discretion, may determine whether Continuous Status as an Employee, Director or Consultant shall be considered interrupted in the case of: (i) any leave of absence approved by the Board, including sick leave, military leave, or any other personal leave; or (ii) transfers between the Company, Affiliates or their successors.

 

(h)                                 Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i)                                    Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Affiliate of the Company.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(j)                                    Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(k)                                Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of the common stock of the Company determined as follows and in each case in a manner consistent with Section 260.140.50 of Title 10 of the California Code of Regulations:

 

(1)                                 If the common stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap, the Fair Market Value of a share of common stock shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such system or exchange (or the exchange with the greatest volume of trading in common stock) on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination, as reported in the Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Board deems reliable;

 

(2)                                 In the absence of an established market for the common stock, the Fair Market Value shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(l)                                    Incentive Stock Option” means an Option intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(m)                              Non-Employee Director” means a member of the Board who either (i) is not a current employee or officer of the Company or any Affiliate, does not receive compensation (directly or indirectly) from the Company or any Affiliate for services rendered as a Consultant or in any capacity other than as a member of the Board (except for an amount as to which disclosure would not be required under Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K promulgated pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933 (“Regulation S-K”), does not possess an interest in any other transaction as to which disclosure would be required under Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K, and is not engaged in a business relationship as to which disclosure would be required under Item 404(o) of Regulation S-K; or (ii) is otherwise considered a “non-employee director” for purposes of Rule 16b-3.

 

2



 

(n)                                 Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an Incentive Stock Option.

 

(o)                                  Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p)                                  Option” means a stock option granted pursuant to the Plan.

 

(q)                                  Option Agreement” means a written agreement between the Company and an Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of an individual Option grant.  Each Option Agreement shall be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

 

(r)                                  Optionee” means a person who holds an outstanding Option.

 

(s)                                  Plan” means this 1996 Stock Option Plan.

 

(t)                                    Rule 16b-3” means Rule I6b-3 of the Exchange Act or any successor to Rule 16b-3, as in effect when discretion is being exercised with respect to the Plan.

 

3.                                      ADMINISTRATION.

 

(a)                                  The Plan shall be administered by the Board unless and until the Board delegates administration to a Committee, as provided in subsection 3(c).

 

(b)                                  The Board shall have the power, subject to, and within the limitations of, the express provisions of the Plan:

 

(1)                                 To determine from time to time which of the persons eligible under the Plan shall be granted Options; when and how each Option shall be granted; whether an Option will be an Incentive Stock Option or a Nonstatutory Stock Option; the provisions of each Option granted (which need not be identical), including the time or times such Option may be exercised in whole or in part; and the number of shares for which an Option shall be granted to each such person.

 

(2)                                 To construe and interpret the Plan and Options granted under it, and to establish, amend and revoke rules and regulations for its administration.  The Board, in the exercise of this power, may correct any defect, omission or inconsistency in the Plan or in any Option Agreement, in a manner and to the extent it shall deem necessary or expedient to make the Plan fully effective.

 

(3)                                 To amend the Plan or an Option as provided in Section 11.

 

(c)                                  The Board may delegate administration of the Plan to a committee composed of one (1) or more members (the “Committee”), all of which may be Non-Employee Directors.  If administration is delegated to a Committee, the Committee shall have, in connection with the administration of the Plan, the powers theretofore possessed by the Board (and references in this Plan to the Board shall thereafter be to the Committee), subject, however, to such resolutions, not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan, as may be adopted from time to time by the Board. 

 

3



 

The Board may abolish the Committee at any time and revest in the Board the administration of the Plan.

 

4.                                      SHARES SUBJECT TO THE PLAN.

 

(a)                                  Subject to the provisions of Section 10 relating to adjustments upon changes in stock, the stock that may be sold pursuant to Options shall not exceed in the aggregate Nine Million Thirty Thousand, Nine Hundred Forty (9,030,940) shares of the Company’s common stock.  If any Option shall for any reason expire or otherwise terminate, in whole or in part, without having been exercised in full, the stock not purchased under such Option shall revert to and again become available for issuance under the Plan.

 

(b)                                  The stock subject to the Plan may be unissued shares or reacquired shares, bought on the market or otherwise.

 

5.                                      ELIGIBILITY.

 

(a)                                  Incentive Stock Options may be granted only to Employees.  Nonstatutory Stock Options may be granted only to Employees, Directors or Consultants.

 

(b)                                  No person shall be eligible for the grant of an Option if, at the time of grant, such person owns (or is deemed to own pursuant to Section 424(d) of the Code) stock possessing more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or of any of its Affiliates unless the exercise price of such Option is at least one hundred ten percent (110%) of the Fair Market Value of such stock at the date of grant and the Option is not exercisable after the expiration of five (5) years from the date of grant.

 

6.                                      OPTION PROVISIONS.

 

Each Option shall be in such form and shall contain such terms and conditions as the Board shall deem appropriate.  The provisions of separate Options need not be identical, but each Option shall include (through incorporation of provisions hereof by reference in the Option or otherwise) the substance of each of the following provisions:

 

(a)                                  Term.  No Option shall be exercisable after the expiration of ten (10) years from the date it was granted.

 

(b)                                  Price.  The exercise price of each Incentive Stock Option shall be not less than one hundred percent (100%) of the Fair Market Value of the stock subject to the Option on the date the Option is granted; the exercise price of each Nonstatutory Stock Option shall be not less than eighty five percent (85%) of the Fair Market Value of the stock subject to the Option on the date the Option is grantedNotwithstanding the foregoing, an Option (whether an Incentive Stock Option or a Nonstatutory Stock Option) may be granted with an exercise price lower than that set forth in the preceding sentence if such Option is granted pursuant to an assumption or substitution for another option in a manner satisfying the provisions of Section 424(a) of the Code.

 

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(c)                                  Consideration.  The purchase price of stock acquired pursuant to an Option shall be paid, to the extent permitted by applicable statutes and regulations, either (i) in cash at the time the Option is exercised; or (ii) at the discretion of the Board or the Committee, at the time of the grant of the Option, (A) by delivery to the Company of other common stock of the Company, (B) according to a deferred payment or other arrangement (which may include, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the use of other common stock of the Company) with the person to whom the Option is granted or to whom the Option is transferred pursuant to subsection 6(d), or (C) in any other form of legal consideration that may be acceptable to the BoardIn the case of any deferred payment arrangement, interest shall be payable at least annually and shall be charged at the minimum rate of interest necessary to avoid the treatment as interest, under any applicable provisions of the Code, of any amounts other than amounts stated to be interest under the deferred payment arrangement.

 

(d)                                  Transferability.  An Incentive Stock Option shall not be transferable except by will or by the laws of descent and distribution, and shall be exercisable during the lifetime of the person to whom the Option is granted only by such personA Nonstatutory Stock Option may be transferred to the extent provided in the Option Agreement; provided that if the Option Agreement does not expressly permit the transfer of a Nonstatutory Stock Option, the Nonstatutory Stock Option shall not be transferable except by will or by the laws of descent and distribution or pursuant to a domestic relations order satisfying the requirements of Rule 16b-3 and the rules thereunder, and shall be exercisable during the lifetime of the person to whom the Option is granted only by such person or any transferee pursuant to such domestic relations orderThe person to whom the Option is granted may, by delivering written notice to the Company, in a form satisfactory to the Company, designate a third party who, in the event of the death of the Optionee, shall thereafter be entitled to exercise the Option.

 

(e)                                  Vesting.  The total number of shares of stock subject to an Option may, but need not, be allotted in periodic installments (which may, but need not, be equal)The Option Agreement may provide that from time to time during each of such installment periods, the Option may become exercisable (“vest”) with respect to some or all of the shares allotted to that period, and may be exercised with respect to some or all of the shares allotted to such period and/or any prior period as to which the Option became vested but was not fully exercisedThe Option may be subject to such other terms and conditions on the time or times when it may be exercised (which may be based on performance or other criteria) as the Board may deem appropriateTo the extent required by then applicable law, the vesting provisions of individual Options may vary but in each case will provide for vesting of at least twenty percent (20%) per year of the total number of shares subject to the OptionThe provisions of this subsection 6(e) are subject to any Option provisions governing the minimum number of shares as to which an Option may be exercised.

 

(f)                                    Securities Law Compliance.  The Company may require any Optionee, or any person to whom an Option is transferred under subsection 6(d), as a condition of exercising any such Option, (1) to give written assurances satisfactory to the Company as to the Optionee’s knowledge and experience in financial and business matters and/or to employ a purchaser representative reasonably satisfactory to the Company who is knowledgeable and experienced in financial and business matters, and that he or she is capable of evaluating, alone or together with the purchaser representative, the merits and risks of exercising the Option; and (2) to give written

 

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assurances satisfactory to the Company stating that such person is acquiring the stock subject to the Option for such person’s own account and not with any present intention of selling or otherwise distributing the stockThe foregoing requirements, and any assurances given pursuant to such requirements, shall be inoperative if (i) the issuance of the shares upon the exercise of the Option has been registered under a then currently effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or (ii) as to any particular requirement, a determination is made by counsel for the Company that such requirement need not be met in the circumstances under the then applicable securities lawsThe Company may require the Optionee to provide such other representations, written assurances or information which the Company shall determine is necessary, desirable or appropriate to comply with applicable securities and other laws as a condition of granting an Option to such Optionee or permitting the Optionee to exercise such OptionThe Company may, upon advice of counsel to the Company, place legends on stock certificates issued under the Plan as such counsel deems necessary or appropriate in order to comply with applicable securities laws, including, but not limited to, legends restricting the transfer of the stock.

 

(g)                                 Termination of Employment or Relationship as a Director or Consultant.  In the event an Optionee’s Continuous Status as an Employee, Director or Consultant terminates (other than upon the Optionee’s death or disability), the Optionee may exercise his or her Option (to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise it as of the date of termination) but only within such period of time ending on the earlier of (i) the date thirty (30) days after the termination of the Optionee’s Continuous Status as an Employee, Director or Consultant (or such longer specified in the Option Agreement) or (ii) the expiration of the term of the Option as set forth in the Option Agreement.  If, after termination, the Optionee does not exercise his or her Option within the time specified in the Option Agreement, the Option shall terminate, and the shares covered by such Option shall revert to and again become available for issuance under the Plan.

 

(h)                                 Disability of Optionee.  In the event an Optionee’s Continuous Status as an Employee, Director or Consultant terminates as a result of the Optionee’s disability, the Optionee may exercise his or her Option (to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise it as of the date of termination), but only within such period of time ending on the earlier of (i) the date six (6) months following such termination (or such longer specified in the Option Agreement), or (ii) the expiration of the term of the Option as set forth in the Option AgreementIf, at the date of termination, the Optionee is not entitled to exercise his or her entire Option, the shares covered by the unexercisable portion of the Option shall revert to and again become available for issuance under the PlanIf, after termination, the Optionee does not exercise his or her Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate, and the shares covered by such Option shall revert to and again become available for issuance under the Plan.

 

(i)                                    Death of Optionee.  In the event of the death of an Optionee during, or within a period specified in the Option Agreement after the termination of, the Optionee’s Continuous Status as an Employee, Director or Consultant, the Option may be exercised (to the extent the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option as of the date of death) by the Optionee’s estate, by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance or by a person designated to exercise the Option upon the Optionee’s death pursuant to subsection 6(d), but only within the period ending on the earlier of (i) the date twelve (12) months following the date

 

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of death (or such longer or shorter period, which in no event shall be less than six (6) months, specified in the Option Agreement), or (ii) the expiration of the term of such Option as set forth in the Option Agreement.  If, at the time of death, the Optionee was not entitled to exercise his or her entire Option, the shares covered by the unexercisable portion of the Option shall revert to and again become available for issuance under the Plan.  If, after death, the Option is not exercised within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate, and the shares covered by such Option shall revert to and again become available for issuance under the Plan.

 

(j)                                    Early Exercise.  The Option may, but need not, include a provision whereby the optionee may elect at any time while an Employee, Director or Consultant to exercise the Option as to any part or all of the shares subject to the Option prior to the full vesting of the OptionAny unvested shares so purchased shall be subject to a repurchase right in favor of the Company, with the repurchase price to be equal to the original purchase price of the stock, or to any other restriction the Board determines to be appropriate; provided, however, that (i) the right to repurchase at the original purchase price shall lapse at a minimum rate of twenty percent (20%) per year over the five (5)-year period measured from the date the Option was granted (or such other period as required by then applicable law); (ii) such right shall be exercisable only within (A) the ninety (90)-day period following the termination of employment or the relationship as a Director or Consultant, or (B) such longer period as may be agreed to by the Company and the Optionee (for example, for purposes of satisfying the requirements of Section 1202(c)(3) of the Code (regarding “qualified small business stock”)); and (iii) such right shall be exercisable only for cash or cancellation of purchase money indebtedness for the sharesShould the right of repurchase be assigned by the Company, the assignee shall pay the Company cash equal to the difference between the original purchase price and the stock’s Fair Market Value if the original purchase price is less than the stock’s Fair Market Value.

 

(k)                                Right of Repurchase.  The Option may, but need not, include a provision whereby the Company may elect, prior to the date of the first registration of an equity security of the Company under Section 12 of the Exchange Act, to repurchase all or any part of the vested shares exercised pursuant to the Option; provided, however, that (i) such repurchase right shall be exercisable only within (A) the ninety (90)-day period following the termination of employment or the relationship as a Director or Consultant (or such other period as required by then applicable law), or (B) such longer period as may be agreed to by the Company and the Optionee (for example, for purposes of satisfying the requirements of Section 1202(c)(3) of the Code (regarding “qualified small business stock”)), and (ii) such right shall be exercisable only for cash or cancellation of purchase money indebtedness for the shares at a repurchase price equal to the greater of (A) the stock’s Fair Market Value at the time of such termination, or (B) the original purchase price paid for such shares by the Optionee.

 

(l)                                    Right of First Refusal.  The Option may, but need not, include a provision whereby the Company may elect, prior to the date of the first registration of an equity security of the Company under Section 12 of the Exchange Act, to exercise a right of first refusal following receipt of notice from the Optionee of the intent to transfer all or any part of the shares received pursuant to exercise of the OptionSuch right of first refusal must be exercised by the Company no more than thirty (30) days following receipt of notice of the Optionee’s intent to transfer shares and must be exercised as to all the shares the Optionee intends to transfer unless the Optionee consents to exercise for less than all the shares offeredThe purchase of the shares

 

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following exercise must be completed within sixty (60) days of the Company’s receipt of notice of the Optionee’s intent to transfer shares or such longer period of time as has been offered by the person to whom the Optionee intends to transfer the shares.

 

(m)                              Withholding.  To the extent provided by the terms of an Option Agreement, the Optionee may satisfy any federal, state or local tax withholding obligation relating to the exercise of such Option by any of the following means or by a combination of such means: (1) tendering a cash payment; (2) authorizing the Company to withhold shares from the shares of the common stock otherwise issuable to the Optionee as a result of the exercise of the Option; or (3) delivering to the Company owned and unencumbered shares of the common stock of the Company.

 

(n)                                 Re-Load Options.  Without in any way limiting the authority of the Board or Committee to make or not to make grants of Options hereunder, the Board or Committee shall have the authority (but not an obligation) to include as part of any Option Agreement a provision entitling the Optionee to a further Option (a “Re-Load Option”) in the event the Optionee exercises the Option evidenced by the Option Agreement, in whole or in part, by surrendering other shares of Common Stock in accordance with this Plan and the terms and conditions of the Option AgreementAny such Re-Load Option (i) shall be for a number of shares equal to the number of shares surrendered as part or all of the exercise price of such Option; (ii) shall have an expiration date which is the same as the expiration date of the Option the exercise of which gave rise to such Re-Load Option; and (iii) shall have an exercise price which is equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock subject to the Re-Load Option on the date of exercise of the original OptionNotwithstanding the foregoing, a Re-Load Option which is an Incentive Stock Option and which is granted to a 10% stockholder (as described in subsection 5(b)), shall have an exercise, price which is equal to one hundred ten percent (l10%) of the Fair Market Value of the stock subject to the Re-Load Option on the date of exercise of the original Option and shall have a term which is no longer than five (5) years.

 

Any such Re-Load Option may be an Incentive Stock Option or a Nonstatutory Stock Option, as the Board or Committee may designate at the time of the grant of the original Option; provided, however, that the designation of any Re-Load Option as an Incentive Stock Option shall be subject to the one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) annual limitation on exercisability of Incentive Stock Options described in subsection 9(e) of the Plan and in Section 422(d) of the CodeThere shall be no Re-Load Options on a Re-Load OptionAny such Re-Load Option shall be subject to the availability of sufficient shares under subsection 4(a) and shall be subject to such other terms and conditions as the Board or Committee may determine which are not inconsistent with the express provisions of the Plan regarding the terms of Options.

 

7.                                      COVENANTS OF THE COMPANY.

 

(a)                                  During the terms of all outstanding Options under the Plan, the Company shall keep available at all times the number of shares of stock required to satisfy such Options.

 

(b)                                  The Company shall seek to obtain from each regulatory commission or agency having jurisdiction over the Plan such authority as may be required to issue and sell shares of stock upon exercise of the Options; provided, however, that this undertaking shall not require the

 

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Company to register under the Securities Act either the Plan, any Option or any stock issued or issuable pursuant to any such OptionIf, after reasonable efforts, the Company is unable to obtain from any such regulatory commission or agency the authority which counsel for the Company deems necessary for the lawful issuance and sale of stock under the Plan, the Company shall be relieved from any liability for failure to issue and sell stock upon exercise of such Options unless and until such authority is obtained.

 

8.                                      USE OF PROCEEDS FROM STOCK.

 

Proceeds from the sale of stock pursuant to Options shall constitute general funds of the Company.

 

9.                                      MISCELLANEOUS.

 

(a)                                  The Board shall have the power to accelerate the time at which an options may first be exercised or the time during which an Option or any part thereof will vest pursuant to subsection 6(e), notwithstanding the provisions in the Option stating the time at which it may first be exercised or the time during which it will vest.

 

(b)                                  Neither an Optionee nor any person to whom an Option is transferred under subsection 6(d) shall be deemed to be the holder of, or to have any of the rights of a holder with respect to, any shares subject to such Option unless and until such person has satisfied all requirements for exercise of the Option pursuant to its terms.

 

(c)                                  Throughout the term of any Option, the Company shall deliver to the holder of such Option, not later than one hundred twenty (120) days after the close of each of the Company’s fiscal years during the Option term, a balance sheet and an income statementThis subsection shall not apply:  (i) when issuance is limited to key employees whose duties in connection with the Company assure them access to equivalent information or (ii) upon registration of an equity security of the Company under Section 12 of the Exchange Act.

 

(d)                                  Nothing in the Plan or any instrument executed or Option granted pursuant thereto shall confer upon any Employee, Director, Consultant or Optionee any right to continue in the employ of the Company or any Affiliate (or to continue acting as a Director or Consultant) or shall affect the right of the Company or any Affiliate to terminate the employment of any Employee, with or without cause, to remove any Director as provided in the Company’s Bylaws and the provisions of the California Corporations Code, or to terminate the relationship of any Consultant in accordance with the terms of that Consultant’s agreement with the Company or Affiliate to which such Consultant is providing services.

 

(e)                                  To the extent that the aggregate Fair Market Value (determined at the time of grant) of stock with respect to which Incentive Stock Options are exercisable for the first time by any Optionee during any calendar year under all plans of the Company and its Affiliates exceeds one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000), the Options or portions thereof which exceed such limit (according to the order in which they were granted) shall be treated as Nonstatutory Stock options.

 

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(f)                                    The Board or the Committee shall have the authority to effect, at any time and from time to time (i) the repricing of any outstanding Options under the Plan and/or (ii) with the consent of the affected holders of Options, the cancellation of any outstanding Options and the grant in substitution therefor of new Options under the Plan covering the same or different numbers of shares of common stock, but having an exercise price per share not less than eighty-five percent (85%) of the Fair Market Value (one hundred percent (100%) of the Fair Market Value in the case of an Incentive Stock Option or, in the case of a ten percent (10%) stockholder (as described in subsection 5(b)), not less than one hundred and ten percent (110%) of the Fair Market Value) per share of common stock on the new grant date.

 

10.                               ADJUSTMENTS UPON CHANGES IN STOCK.

 

(a)                                  If any change is made in the stock subject to the Plan, or subject to any option (through merger, consolidation, reorganization, recapitalization, stock dividend, dividend in property other than cash, stock split, liquidating dividend, combination of shares, exchange of shares, change in corporate structure or other transaction not involving the receipt of consideration by the Company), the Plan will be appropriately adjusted in the class(es) and maximum number of shares subject to the Plan pursuant to subsection 4(a), and the outstanding Options will be appropriately adjusted in the class(es) and number of shares and price per share of stock subject to such outstanding OptionsSuch adjustments shall be made by the Board or Committee, the determination of which shall be final, binding and conclusive(The conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be treated as a “transaction not involving the receipt of consideration by the Company.”)

 

(b)                                  In the event of:  (1) a merger or consolidation in which the Company is not the surviving corporation or (2) a reverse merger in which the Company is the surviving corporation but the shares of the Company’s common stock outstanding immediately preceding the merger are converted by virtue of the merger into other property, whether in the form of securities, cash or otherwise; or (3) the acquisition by any person, entity or group within the meaning of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Exchange Act, or any comparable successor provisions (excluding any employee benefit plan, or related trust, sponsored or maintained by the Company or any Affiliate of the Company) of the beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act or comparable successor rule) of securities of the Company representing at least fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power entitled to vote in the election of directors, then to the extent not prohibited by applicable law:  (i) any surviving or acquiring corporation shall assume any Options outstanding under the Plan or shall substitute similar Options (including an option to acquire the same consideration paid to the stockholders in the transaction described in this subsection 10(b)) for those outstanding under the Plan, or (ii) such Options shall continue in full force and effect.  In the event any surviving or acquiring corporation refuses to assume such Options, or to substitute similar options for those outstanding under the Plan, then, with respect to Options held by persons then performing services as Employees, Directors or Consultants, the time during which such options may be exercised shall be accelerated, and such Options shall be terminated if not exercised prior to such event.  In the event of a dissolution or liquidation of the Company, any Options outstanding under the Plan shall terminate if not exercised prior to such event.

 

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11.                               AMENDMENTS OF THE PLAN AND OPTIONS.

 

(a)                                  The Board at any time, and from time to time, may amend the Plan and/or some or all outstanding Options granted under the PlanHowever, except as provided in paragraph 12 relating to adjustments upon changes in stock, no amendment shall be effective unless approved by the stockholders of the Company to the extent stockholder approval is necessary for the Plan to satisfy the requirements of Section 422 of the Code, Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act or any Nasdaq or securities exchange listing requirements.

 

(b)                                  The Board may in its sole discretion submit any other amendment to the Plan for stockholder approval, including, but not limited to, amendments to the Plan intended to satisfy the requirements of Section 162(m) of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder regarding the exclusion of performance-based compensation from the limit on corporate deductibility of compensation paid to certain executive officers.

 

(c)                                  It is expressly contemplated that the Board may amend the Plan in any respect the Board deems necessary or advisable to provide Optionees with the maximum benefits provided or to be provided under the provisions of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder relating to Incentive Stock Options and/or to bring the Plan and/or Incentive Stock Options granted under it into compliance therewith.

 

(d)                                  Rights and obligations under any Option granted before amendment of the Plan shall not be impaired by any amendment of the Plan unless (i) the Company requests the consent of the person to whom the Option was granted and (ii) such person consents in writing.

 

(e)                                  The Board at any time, and from time to time, may amend the terms of any one or more Options; provided, however, that the rights and obligations under any Option shall not be impaired by any such amendment unless (i) the Company requests the consent of the person to whom the Option was granted and (ii) such person consents in writing.

 

12.                               TERMINATION OR SUSPENSION OF THE PLAN.

 

(a)                                  The Board may suspend or terminate the Plan at any timeUnless sooner terminated, the Plan shall terminate on October 30, 2006, which shall be within ten (10) years from the date the Plan is adopted by the Board or approved by the stockholders of the Company, whichever is earlier.  No Options may be granted under the Plan while the Plan is suspended or after it is terminated.

 

(b)                                  Rights and obligations under any Option granted while the Plan is in effect shall not be impaired by suspension or termination of the Plan, except with the written consent of the person to whom the Option was granted.

 

13.                               EFFECTIVE DATE OF PLAN.

 

The Plan shall become effective as determined by the Board, but no Options granted under the Plan shall be exercised unless and until the Plan has been approved by the stockholders of the Company, which approval shall be within twelve (12) months before or after the date the Plan is adopted by the Board, and, to the extent required, an appropriate permit has been issued by the Commissioner of Corporations of the State of California.

 

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Exhibit 99.2

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

 

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

Christopher Basoglu

1300 White Oaks Road

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

April 18, 2002

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

April 1, 2002

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

$0.25

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

124,400

 

 

Total Exercise Price

$31,100.00

 

 

Type of Option:

   o   Incentive Stock Option

 

 

 

   ý   Non-statutory Stock Option

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

April 18, 2012

 

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

(25%) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become exercisable six months after the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one forty-second (1/42) of the Shares shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all such shares are exercisable based upon the Optionee’s continued employment with the corporation.

 



 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

AGREEMENT

 

Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

Director” means a member of the Board.

 

Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

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Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

Option” means this stock option.

 

Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

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Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

Exercise of Option.

 

 Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

cash or check;

 

consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

4



 

Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

5



 

Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option would not otherwise be exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set

 

6



 

forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

7



 

By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

CHRISTOPHER BASOGLU

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Christopher Basoglu

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8



 

EXHIBIT A

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Rd.

Campbell, CA  95008-6723

 

Attention:  Secretary

 

                                          Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today,                              20   , the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase                  shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated April 18, 2002 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $                    , as required by the Option Agreement.

 

                                          Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

                                          Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

                                          Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

                                          Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a)                                  Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the

 



 

Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 

(b)                                 Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c)                                  Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d)                                 Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e)                                  Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f)                                    Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g)                                 Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

2



 

                                          Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

                                          Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(h)                                 Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(i)                                     Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(j)                                     Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

                                          Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

3



 

                                          Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

                                          Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

 

Submitted by:

 

Accepted by:

 

 

 

 

 

Christopher Basoglu

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

650 Page Mill Road

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

 

Palo Alto, CA 94304

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

Address

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

4



 

EXHIBIT B

 

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

 

OPTIONEE:

 

Christopher Basoglu

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMPANY:

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

SECURITY:

 

COMMON STOCK

 

 

 

 

 

AMOUNT:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DATE:

 

 

 

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of

5



 

“restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

Christopher Basoglu:

 

 

 

/s/ Christopher Basoglu

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

2


Exhibit 99.3

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

 

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

I.                                         NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

 

Christopher Basoglu

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Road

Campbell, CA 95008

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

 

April 8, 2003

 

 

 

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

 

April 8, 2003

 

 

 

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

 

$0.008

 

 

 

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

 

150,000

 

 

 

 

 

Total Exercise Price

 

$1,200.00

 

 

 

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

 

April 8, 2013

 

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

Forty-one percent (41%) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become immediately exercisable on the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one twenty-eighth (1/28) of the remainder of the Shares shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all shares are exercisable, provided that the Optionee continues to be a Service Provider on such dates.

 



 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

II.                                     AGREEMENT

 

1.   Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

(a)          Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

(b)         Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

(c)          Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

(d)         Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

(e)          Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

(f)            Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(g)         Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

(h)         Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i)             Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

(j)             Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(k)          Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

2



 

(l)             Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

(1)  If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

(2)  If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

(3)  In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(m)       Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(n)         Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

(o)         Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p)         Option” means this stock option.

 

(q)         Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(r)            Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

(s)          Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

(t)            Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

(u)         Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

(v)         Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

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2.   Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

3.   Exercise of Option.

 

(a)          Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

(b)         Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

(c)          Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

(d)         Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

4.   Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

5.   Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

(a)          cash or check;

 

(b)         consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

(c)          surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

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6.   Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

7.   Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

8.   Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

9.   Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

10.  Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

11.  Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

(a)          Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

5



 

(b)         Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option would not otherwise be exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

(c)          Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

12.  Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

13.  Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set

 

6



 

forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

14.  Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

(a)          Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

(b)         Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

15.  Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

16.  NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

7



 

By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

Christopher Basoglu

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Christopher Basoglu

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8



 

EXHIBIT A

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Rd.

Campbell, CA  95008-6723

 

Attention:    Secretary

 

1.   Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today,                   , 2003, the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase                        shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated April 8, 2003 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $                    , as required by the Option Agreement.

 

2.   Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

3.   Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

4.   Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

5.   Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a)          Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 



 

(b)         Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c)          Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d)         Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e)          Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f)            Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g)         Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

6.   Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with

 

2



 

the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

7.   Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(a)          Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(b)         Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(c)          Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

8.   Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

9.   Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

3



 

10.  Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

Submitted by:

 

Accepted by:

 

 

 

 

 

Christopher Basoglu

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

 

 

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

Address

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

4



 

EXHIBIT B

 

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

 

OPTIONEE:

 

Christopher Basoglu

 

 

 

 

 

COMPANY:

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

SECURITY:

 

COMMON STOCK

 

 

 

 

 

AMOUNT:

 

shares @ $0.008/share = $

 

 

 

 

 

DATE:

 

 

 

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

(a)          Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

(b)         Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

(c)          Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to

 



 

the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

(d)         Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

 

Christopher Basoglu:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Christopher Basoglu

 

 

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

2


Exhibit 99.4

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

 

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

 

I.                                         NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

 

Christopher Basoglu

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Road

Campbell, CA 95008

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

 

November 11, 2003

 

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

 

November 11, 2003

 

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

 

$0.008

 

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

 

1,160,315

 

 

 

Total Exercise Price

 

$9,282.52

 

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

 

November 11, 2013

 

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

Fifty-eight percent (58%) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become immediately exercisable on the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one twentieth (1/20) of the remainder of the Shares shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all shares are exercisable, provided that the Optionee continues to be a Service Provider on such dates.

 



 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

II.                                     AGREEMENT

 

1.  Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

(a) ”Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

(b) ”Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

(c) “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

(d) “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

(e) “Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

(f) “Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(g) “Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

(h) “Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i) “Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

(j) “Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(k) “Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

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(l) “Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

(1) If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

(2) If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

(3) In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(m) “Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(n) “Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

(o) “Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p) “Option” means this stock option.

 

(q) “Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(r) “Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

(s) “Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

(t) “Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

(u) “Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

(v) “Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

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2.  Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

3.  Exercise of Option.

 

(a) Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

(b) Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

(c) Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

(d) Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

4.  Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

5.  Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

(a) cash or check;

 

(b) consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

(c) surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

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6.  Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

7.  Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

8.  Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

9.  Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

10. Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

11. Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

(a) Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

5



 

(b) Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option would not otherwise be exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

(c) Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

12. Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only  to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

13. Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set

 

6



 

forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

14. Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

(a) Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

(b) Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

15. Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

16. NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

7



 

By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

Christopher Basoglu

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Christopher Basoglu

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8



 

EXHIBIT A

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Rd.

Campbell, CA  95008-6723

 

Attention:   Secretary

 

1.  Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today,                         , 2003, the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase                      shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated November 11, 2003 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $                             , as required by the Option Agreement.

 

2.  Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

3.  Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

4.  Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

5.  Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a) Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 



 

(b) Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c) Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d) Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e) Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f) Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g) Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

6.  Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with

 

2



 

the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

7.  Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(a) Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(b) Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company  transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(c) Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

8.  Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

9.  Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

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10. Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

Submitted by:

 

Accepted by:

 

 

 

Christopher Basoglu

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

 

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

Address

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

4



 

EXHIBIT B

 

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

 

OPTIONEE:

 

Christopher Basoglu

 

 

 

COMPANY:

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

SECURITY:

 

COMMON STOCK

 

 

 

AMOUNT:

 

shares @ $0.008/share = $

 

 

 

DATE:

 

 

 

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

(a) Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

(b) Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

(c) Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to

 



 

the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

(d) Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

Christopher Basoglu:

 

 

 

/s/ Christopher Basoglu

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

2


Exhibit 99.5

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

 

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

 

I.                                         NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

Richard Christopher

1300 White Oaks Road

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

April 18, 2002

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

April 1, 2002

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

$0.25

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

229,558

 

 

Total Exercise Price

$57,389.50

 

 

Type of Option:

   o Incentive Stock Option

 

 

 

   ý Non-statutory Stock Option

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

April 18, 2012

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

(25%) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become exercisable six months after the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one forty-eighth (1/48) of the Shares shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all such shares are exercisable based upon the Optionee’s continued employment with the corporation.

 



 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

II.                                     AGREEMENT

 

1.  Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

(a)  “Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

(b)  “Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

(c)  “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

(d)  “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

(e)  “Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

(f)  “Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(g)  “Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

(h)  “Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i)  “Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

(j)  “Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(k)  “Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(l)  “Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

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(1)  If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

(2)  If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

(3)  In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(m)  “Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(n)  “Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

(o)  “Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p)  “Option” means this stock option.

 

(q)  “Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(r)  “Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

(s)  “Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

(t)  “Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

(u)  “Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

(v)  “Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

2.  Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

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3.  Exercise of Option.

 

(a)  Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

(b)  Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

(c)  Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

(d)  Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

4.  Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

5.  Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

(a)  cash or check;

 

(b)  consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

(c)  surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

6.  Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

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7.  Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

8.  Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

9.  Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

10.  Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

11. Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

(a)  Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(b)  Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option would not otherwise be

 

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exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

(c)  Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

12. Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only  to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

13. Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

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14. Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

(a)  Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

(b)  Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

15. Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

16. NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

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By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

RICHARD CHRISTOPHER

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Richard Christopher

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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EXHIBIT A

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Rd.

Campbell, CA  95008-6723

 

Attention:  Secretary

 

1.  Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today,                     20   , the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase                shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated April 18, 2002 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $                             , as required by the Option Agreement.

 

2.  Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

3.  Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

4.  Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

5.  Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a)  Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 



 

(b)  Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c)  Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d)  Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e)  Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f)  Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g)  Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

6.  Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with

 

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the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

7.  Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(a)  Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(b)  Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company  transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(c)  Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

8.  Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

9.  Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

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10.  Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

 

Submitted by:

 

Accepted by:

 

 

 

Richard Christopher

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

650 Page Mill Road

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

Palo Alto, CA 94304

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

Address

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

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EXHIBIT B

 

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

 

OPTIONEE:

 

Richard Christopher

 

 

 

COMPANY:

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

SECURITY:

 

COMMON STOCK

 

 

 

AMOUNT:

 

 

 

 

 

DATE:

 

 

 

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

(a)  Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

(b)  Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

(c)  Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to

 



 

the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

(d)  Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

Richard Christopher:

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Richard Christopher

 

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

2


Exhibit 99.6

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

 

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

 

I.                                         NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

 

Richard Christopher

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Road

Campbell, CA 95008

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

 

April 8, 2003

 

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

 

April 8, 2003

 

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

 

$0.008

 

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

 

942,075

 

 

 

Total Exercise Price

 

$7,536.60

 

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

 

April 8, 2013

 

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

Forty-one percent (41%) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become immediately exercisable on the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one twenty-eighth (1/28) of the remainder of the Shares shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all shares are exercisable, provided that the Optionee continues to be a Service Provider on such dates.

 



 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

II.                                     AGREEMENT

 

1.  Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

(a)  “Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

(b)  “Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

(c)  “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

(d)  “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

(e)  “Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

(f)  “Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(g)  “Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

(h)  “Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i)  “Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

(j)  “Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(k)  “Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(l)  “Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

2



 

(1)  If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported)  as quoted on such exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

(2)  If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

(3)  In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(m)  “Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(n)  “Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

(o)  “Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p)  “Option” means this stock option.

 

(q)  “Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(r)  “Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

(s)  “Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

(t)  “Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

(u)  “Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

(v)  “Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

2.  Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

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3.  Exercise of Option.

 

(a)  Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

(b)  Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

(c)  Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

(d)  Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

4.  Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

5.  Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

(a)  cash or check;

 

(b)  consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

(c)  surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

6.  Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

4



 

7.  Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

8.  Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

9.  Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

10. Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

11. Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

(a)  Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(b)  Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option would not otherwise be

 

5



 

exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

(c)  Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

12. Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only  to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

13. Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

6



 

14. Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

(a)  Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

(b)  Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

15. Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

16. NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

7



 

By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

Richard Christopher

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Richard Christopher

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8



 

EXHIBIT A

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Rd.

Campbell, CA  95008-6723

 

Attention:  Secretary

 

1.  Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today,                   , 2003, the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase                       shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated April 8, 2003 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $                          , as required by the Option Agreement.

 

2.  Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

3.  Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

4.  Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

5.  Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a)  Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 



 

(b)  Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c)  Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d)  Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e)  Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f)  Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g)  Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

6.  Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with

 

2



 

the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

7.  Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(a)  Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(b)  Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company  transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(c)  Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

8.  Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

9.  Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

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10.  Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

Submitted by:

 

Accepted by:

 

 

 

Richard Christopher

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

 

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

Address

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

4



 

EXHIBIT B

 

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

 

OPTIONEE:

Richard Christopher

 

 

COMPANY:

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

SECURITY:

COMMON STOCK

 

 

AMOUNT:

shares @ $0.008/share = $

 

 

DATE:

 

 

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

(a)  Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

(b)  Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

(c)  Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to

 



 

the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

(d)  Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

Richard Christopher:

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Richard Christopher

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

2


Exhibit 99.7

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

 

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

 

I.                                         NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

 

Richard Christopher

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Road

Campbell, CA 95008

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

 

November 11, 2003

 

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

 

November 11, 2003

 

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

 

$0.008

 

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

 

5,855,402

 

 

 

Total Exercise Price

 

$46,843.22

 

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

 

November 11, 2013

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

Fifty-seven percent (57%) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become immediately exercisable on the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one twentieth (1/20) of the remainder of the Shares shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all shares are exercisable, provided that the Optionee continues to be a Service Provider on such dates.

 



 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

II.                                     AGREEMENT

 

1.  Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

(a) “Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

(b) “Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

(c) “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

(d) “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

(e) “Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

(f) “Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(g) “Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

(h) “Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i) “Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

(j) “Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(k) “Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(l) “Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

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(1) If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

(2) If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

(3) In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(m) “Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(n) “Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

(o) “Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p) “Option” means this stock option.

 

(q) “Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(r) “Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

(s) “Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

(t) “Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

(u) “Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

(v) “Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

2.  Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

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3.  Exercise of Option.

 

(a) Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

(b) Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

(c) Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

(d) Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

4.  Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

5.  Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

(a) cash or check;

 

(b) consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

(c) surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

6.  Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

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7.  Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

8.  Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

9.  Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

10.  Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

11.  Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

(a) Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(b) Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option would not otherwise be

 

5



 

exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

(c) Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

12.  Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only  to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

13.  Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

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14.  Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

(a) Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

(b) Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

15.  Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

16.  NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

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By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

Richard Christopher

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

 

/s/ Richard Christopher

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

By

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8



 

EXHIBIT A

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Rd.

Campbell, CA  95008-6723

 

Attention:   Secretary

 

1.  Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today,                          , 2003, the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase                             shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated November 11, 2003 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $                          , as required by the Option Agreement.

 

2.  Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

3.  Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

4.  Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

5.  Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a) Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 



 

(b) Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c) Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d) Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e) Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f) Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g) Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

6.  Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with

 

2



 

the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

7.  Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(a) Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(b) Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company  transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(c) Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

8.  Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

9.  Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

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10.  Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

Submitted by:

Accepted by:

 

 

Richard Christopher

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

 

 

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

Address

Address

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

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EXHIBIT B

 

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

 

OPTIONEE:

 

Richard Christopher

 

 

 

COMPANY:

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

SECURITY:

 

COMMON STOCK

 

 

 

AMOUNT:

 

shares @ $0.008/share = $

 

 

 

DATE:

 

 

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

(a) Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

(b) Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

(c) Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to

 



 

the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

(d) Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

Richard Christopher:

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Richard Christopher

 

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

2


Exhibit 99.8

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

 

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

 

I.                                         NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

 

Richard Christopher

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Road

Campbell, CA 95008

 

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

 

September 15, 2004

 

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

 

September 15, 2004

 

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

 

$0.01

 

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

 

19,911

 

 

 

Total Exercise Price

 

$199.11

 

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

 

September 15, 2014

 

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

Seventy-seven percent (77%) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become immediately exercisable on the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one eleven (1/11) of the remainder of the Shares shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all shares are exercisable, provided that the Optionee continues to be a Service Provider on such dates.

 



 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

II.                                     AGREEMENT

 

1.                                       Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

(a)          Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

(b)         Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

(c)          Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

(d)         Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

(e)          Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

(f)            Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(g)         Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

(h)         Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i)             Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

(j)             Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(k)          Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(l)             Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

2



 

(1)                                  If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

(2)                                  If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

(3)                                  In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(m)       Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(n)         Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

(o)         Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p)         Option” means this stock option.

 

(q)         Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(r)            Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

(s)          Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

(t)            Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

(u)         Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

(v)         Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

2.                                       Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

3



 

3.                                       Exercise of Option.

 

(a)          Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

(b)         Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

(c)          Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

(d)         Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

4.                                       Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

5.                                       Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

(a)          cash or check;

 

(b)         consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

(c)          surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

6.                                       Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

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7.                                       Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

8.                                       Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

9.                                       Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

10.                                 Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

11.                                 Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

(a)          Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(b)         Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option would not otherwise be

 

5



 

exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

(c)          Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

12.                                 Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

13.                                 Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

6



 

14.                                 Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

(a)          Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

(b)         Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

15.                                 Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

16.                                 NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

7



 

By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

Richard Christopher

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

 

/s/ Richard Christopher

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

By

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

Title

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8



 

EXHIBIT A

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Rd.

Campbell, CA  95008-6723

 

Attention:                 Secretary

 

1.               Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today,                         , 2004, the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase                          shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated September 15, 2004 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $                            , as required by the Option Agreement.

 

2.               Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

3.               Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

4.               Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

5.               Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a)  Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 



 

(b)  Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c)  Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d)  Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e)  Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f)  Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g)  Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

6.               Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with

 

2



 

the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

7.               Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(a)  Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(b)  Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company  transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(c)  Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

8.               Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

9.               Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

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10.         Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

Submitted by:

Accepted by:

 

 

Richard Christopher

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

 

 

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

Address

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

4



 

EXHIBIT B

 

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

 

OPTIONEE:

 

Richard Christopher

 

 

 

COMPANY:

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

SECURITY:

 

COMMON STOCK

 

 

 

AMOUNT:

 

shares @ $0.01/share = $

 

 

 

 

DATE:

 

 

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

(a)  Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

(b)  Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

(c)  Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to

 



 

the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

(d)  Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

Richard Christopher:

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Richard Christopher

 

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

2


Exhibit 99.9

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

 

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

 

I.                                         NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

 

Michael Myhre

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Road

Campbell, CA 95008

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

 

November 11, 2003

 

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

 

November 11, 2003

 

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

 

$0.008

 

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

 

841,000

 

 

 

Total Exercise Price

 

$6,7280

 

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

 

November 11, 2013

 

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

Sixty-two percent (62%) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become immediately exercisable on the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one eighteenth (1/18) of the remainder of the Shares shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all shares are exercisable, provided that the Optionee continues to be a Service Provider on such dates.

 



 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

II.                                     AGREEMENT

 

1.               Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

(a)                                  Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

(b)                                 Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

(c)                                  Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

(d)                                 Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

(e)                                  Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

(f)                                    Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(g)                                 Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

(h)                                 Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i)                                     Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

(j)                                     Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(k)                                  Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(l)                                     Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

2



 

(1)                                  If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

(2)                                  If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

(3)                                  In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(m)                               Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(n)                                 Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

(o)                                 Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p)                                 Option” means this stock option.

 

(q)                                 Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(r)                                    Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

(s)                                  Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

(t)                                    Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

(u)                                 Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

(v)                                 Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

2.               Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

3



 

3.               Exercise of Option.

 

(a)                                  Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

(b)                                 Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

(c)                                  Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

(d)                                 Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

4.               Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

5.               Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

(a)                                  cash or check;

 

(b)                                 consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

(c)                                  surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

6.               Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

4



 

7.               Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

8.               Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

9.               Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

10.         Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

11.         Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

(a)                                  Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(b)                                 Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option would not otherwise be

 

5



 

exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

(c)                                  Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

12.         Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

13.         Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

6



 

14.         Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

(a)                                  Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

(b)                                 Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

15.         Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

16.         NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

7



 

By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

Michael Myhre

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

 

/s/ Michael Myhre

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

By

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

Title

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8



 

EXHIBIT A

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Rd.

Campbell, CA  95008-6723

 

Attention:                 Secretary

 

1.               Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today,                     , 2003, the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase                     shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated November 11, 2003 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $                           , as required by the Option Agreement.

 

2.               Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

3.               Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

4.               Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

5.               Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a)                                  Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 



 

(b)                                 Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c)                                  Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d)                                 Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e)                                  Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f)                                    Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g)                                 Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

6.               Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with

 

2



 

the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

7.               Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(a)                                  Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(b)                                 Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(c)                                  Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

8.               Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

9.               Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

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10.         Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

Submitted by:

Accepted by:

 

 

Michael Myhre

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

 

 

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

Address

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

4



 

EXHIBIT B

 

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

 

OPTIONEE:

 

Michael Myhre

 

 

 

COMPANY:

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

SECURITY:

 

COMMON STOCK

 

 

 

AMOUNT:

 

shares @ $0.008/share = $

 

 

 

DATE:

 

 

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

(a)          Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

(b)         Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

(c)          Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to

 



 

the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

(d)         Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

Michael Myhre

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Michael Myhre

 

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

2


Exhibit 99.10

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

 

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

 

I.                                         NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

Ted Niday

1300 White Oaks Road

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

 

July 18, 2002

 

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

 

April 1, 2002

 

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

 

$0.25

 

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

 

50,000

 

 

 

Total Exercise Price

 

$12,500

 

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

 

July 18, 2002

 

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

(25%) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become exercisable six months after the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one forty-eighth (1/48) of the Shares shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all such shares are exercisable based upon the Optionee’s continued employment with the corporation.

 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service

 



 

Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

II.                                     AGREEMENT

 

1.                                       Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

(a)                                  Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

(b)                                 Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

(c)                                  Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

(d)                                 Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

(e)                                  Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

(f)                                    Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(g)                                 Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

(h)                                 Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i)                                     Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

(j)                                     Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(k)                                  Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(l)                                     Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

(1)                                  If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such

 

2



 

exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

(2)                                  If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

(3)                                  In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(m)                               Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(n)                                 Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

(o)                                 Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p)                                 Option” means this stock option.

 

(q)                                 Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(r)                                    Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

(s)                                  Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

(t)                                    Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

(u)                                 Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

(v)                                 Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

2.                                       Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

3



 

3.                                       Exercise of Option.

 

(a)                                  Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

(b)                                 Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

(c)                                  Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

(d)                                 Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

4.                                       Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

5.                                       Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

(a)                                  cash or check;

 

(b)                                 consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

(c)                                  surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

6.                                       Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

4



 

7.                                       Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

8.                                       Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

9.                                       Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

10.                                 Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

11.                                 Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

(a)                                  Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(b)                                 Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option

 

5



 

would not otherwise be exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

(c)                                  Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

12.                                 Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

13.                                 Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

6



 

14.                                 Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

(a)                                  Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

(b)                                 Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

15.                                 Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

16.                                 NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

7



 

By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

TED NIDAY

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

 

/s/ Ted Niday

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

By

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

Title

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8



 

EXHIBIT A

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Rd.

Campbell, CA  95008-6723

 

Attention:   Secretary

 

1.                                       Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today,                            20    , the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase                    shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated July 18, 2002 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $                            , as required by the Option Agreement.

 

2.                                       Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

3.                                       Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

4.                                       Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

5.                                       Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a)                                  Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 



 

(b)                                 Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c)                                  Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d)                                 Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e)                                  Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f)                                    Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g)                                 Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

6.                                       Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with

 

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the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

7.                                       Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(a)                                  Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(b)                                 Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(c)                                  Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

8.                                       Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

9.                                       Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

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10.                                 Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

Submitted by:

Accepted by:

 

 

Ted Niday

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

Title

 

 

 

 

650 Page Mill Road

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

 

Palo Alto, CA 94304

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

Address

Address

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

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EXHIBIT B

 

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

 

OPTIONEE:                                 Ted Niday

 

COMPANY:                              Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

SECURITY:                                  COMMON STOCK

 

AMOUNT:

 

DATE:

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

(a)                                  Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

(b)                                 Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

(c)                                  Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to

 



 

the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

(d)                                 Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

Ted Niday:

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Ted Niday

 

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

2


Exhibit 99.11

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

 

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

 

I.                                         NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

 

Tedford Niday

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Road

Campbell, CA 95008

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

April 8, 2003

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

April 8, 2003

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

$0.008

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

350,000

 

 

Total Exercise Price

$2,800.00

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

April 8, 2013

 

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

Sixty-three percent (63%) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become immediately exercisable on the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one seventeenth (1/17) of the remainder of the Shares shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all shares are exercisable, provided that the Optionee continues to be a Service Provider on such dates.

 



 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

II.                                     AGREEMENT

 

1.               Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

(a)                                  Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

(b)                                 Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

(c)                                  Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

(d)                                 Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

(e)                                  Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

(f)                                    Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(g)                                 Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

(h)                                 Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i)                                     Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

(j)                                     Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(k)                                  Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(l)                                     Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

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(1)                                  If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

(2)                                  If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

(3)                                  In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(m)                               Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(n)                                 Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

(o)                                 Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p)                                 Option” means this stock option.

 

(q)                                 Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(r)                                    Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

(s)                                  Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

(t)                                    Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

(u)                                 Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

(v)                                 Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

2.               Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

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3.               Exercise of Option.

 

(a)                                  Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

(b)                                 Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

(c)                                  Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

(d)                                 Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

4.               Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

5.               Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

(a)                                  cash or check;

 

(b)                                 consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

(c)                                  surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

6.               Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

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7.               Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

8.               Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

9.               Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

10.         Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

11.         Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

(a)                                  Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(b)                                 Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option would not otherwise be

 

5



 

exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

(c)                                  Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

12.         Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only  to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

13.         Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

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14.         Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

(a)                                  Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

(b)                                 Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

15.         Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

16.         NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

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By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

Tedford Niday

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Tedford Niday

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8



 

EXHIBIT A

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Rd.

Campbell, CA  95008-6723

 

Attention:                 Secretary

 

1.               Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today,                         , 2003, the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase                          shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated April 8, 2003 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $                            , as required by the Option Agreement.

 

2.               Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

3.               Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

4.               Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

5.               Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a)                                  Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 



 

(b)                                 Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c)                                  Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d)                                 Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e)                                  Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f)                                    Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g)                                 Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

6.               Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with

 

2



 

the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

7.               Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(a)          Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(b)         Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company  transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(c)          Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

8.               Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

9.               Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

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10.         Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

Submitted by:

Accepted by:

 

 

Tedford Niday

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

 

 

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

Address

Address

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

4



 

EXHIBIT B

 

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

 

OPTIONEE:

Tedford Niday

 

 

COMPANY:

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

SECURITY:

COMMON STOCK

 

 

AMOUNT:

           shares @ $0.008/share = $

 

 

DATE:

 

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

(a)          Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

(b)         Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

(c)          Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to

 



 

the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

(d)         Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

Tedford Niday:

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Tedford Niday

 

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

2


Exhibit 99.12

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

 

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

 

I.                                         NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

 

Tedford Niday
Equator Technologies, Inc.
1300 White Oaks Road
Campbell, CA 95008

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

 

November 11, 2003

 

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

 

November 11, 2003

 

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

 

$0.008

 

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

 

200,000

 

 

 

Total Exercise Price

 

$1,600.00

 

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

 

November 11, 2013

 

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

Sixty-three percent (63%) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become immediately exercisable on the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one seventeenth (1/17) of the remainder of the Shares shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all shares are exercisable, provided that the Optionee continues to be a Service Provider on such dates.

 



 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

II.                                     AGREEMENT

 

1. Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

(a) “Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

(b) “Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

(c) “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

(d) “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

(e) “Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

(f) “Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(g) “Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

(h) “Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i) “Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

(j) “Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(k) “Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(l) “Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

2



 

(1) If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

(2) If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

(3) In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(m) “Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(n) “Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

(o) “Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p) “Option” means this stock option.

 

(q) “Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(r) “Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

(s) “Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

(t) “Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

(u) “Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

(v) “Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

2. Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

3



 

3. Exercise of Option.

 

(a) Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

(b) Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

(c) Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

(d) Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

4. Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

5. Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

(a) cash or check;

 

(b) consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

(c) surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

6. Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

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7. Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

8. Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

9. Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

10. Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

11. Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

(a) Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(b) Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option would not otherwise be

 

5



 

exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

(c) Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

12. Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only  to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

13. Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

6



 

14. Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

(a) Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

(b) Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

15. Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

16. NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

7



 

By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

Tedford Niday

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

/s/ Tedford Niday

 

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

By

 

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8



 

EXHIBIT A

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.
1300 White Oaks Rd.
Campbell, CA  95008-6723

Attention:  Secretary

 

1. Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today,                         , 2003, the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase                         shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated November 11, 2003 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $                            , as required by the Option Agreement.

 

2. Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

3. Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

4. Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

5. Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a) Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 



 

(b) Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c) Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d) Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e) Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f) Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g) Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

6. Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with

 

2



 

the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

7. Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(a) Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(b) Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company  transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(c) Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

8. Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

9. Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

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10. Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

Submitted by:

 

 

Accepted by:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tedford Niday

 

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

 

 

 

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

Address

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

4



 

EXHIBIT B

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

 

OPTIONEE:

 

Tedford Niday

 

 

 

COMPANY:

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

SECURITY:

 

COMMON STOCK

 

 

 

AMOUNT:

 

shares @ $0.008/share = $

 

 

 

DATE:

 

 

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

(a) Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

(b) Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

(c) Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to

 



 

the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

(d) Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

 

Tedford Niday

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Tedford Niday

 

 

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

2


Exhibit 99.13

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

 

I.                                         NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

 

John O’Donnell
1300 White Oaks Rd.
Campbell Ca 95008-6723

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

 

March 29, 2001

 

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

 

November 10, 2000

 

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

 

$0.70

 

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

 

800,000

 

 

 

Total Exercise Price

 

$560,000.00

 

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

 

March 29, 2011

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

One-fourth (1/4) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become exercisable 6 months after the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one forty-eighth (1/48) of the Shares subject to the option shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all such shares are exercisable based upon the Optionee’s continued employment with the corporation.

 



 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

II.                                     AGREEMENT

 

1.                                       Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

(a)                                  Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

(b)                                 Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

(c)                                  Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

(d)                                 Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

(e)                                  Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

(f)                                    Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(g)                                 Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

(h)                                 Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i)                                     Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

(j)                                     Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(k)                                  Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(l)                                     Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

2



 

(1)                                  If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

(2)                                  If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

(3)                                  In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(m)                               Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(n)                                 Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

(o)                                 Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p)                                 Option” means this stock option.

 

(q)                                 Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(r)                                    Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

(s)                                  Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

(t)                                    Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

(u)                                 Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

(v)                                 Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

2.                                       Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

3



 

3.                                       Exercise of Option.

 

(a)                                  Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

(b)                                 Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

(c)                                  Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

(d)                                 Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

4.                                       Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

5.                                       Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

(a)                                  cash or check;

 

(b)                                 consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

(c)                                  surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

6.                                       Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

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7.                                       Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

8.                                       Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

9.                                       Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

10.                                 Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

11.                                 Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

(a)                                  Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(b)                                 Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option

 

5



 

would not otherwise be exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

(c)                                  Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

12.                                 Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only  to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

13.                                 Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

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14.                                 Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

(a)                                  Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

(b)                                 Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

15.                                 Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

16.                                 NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

7



 

By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

JOHN O’DONNELL

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ John O’Donnell

 

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

By

 

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8



 

EXHIBIT A

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.
1300 White Oaks Rd.
Campbell, CA  95008-6723

Attention: Secretary

 

1.                                       Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today, April     , 2001, the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase 800,000 shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated March 29, 2001 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $560,000.00, as required by the Option Agreement.

 

2.                                       Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

3.                                       Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

4.                                       Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

5.                                       Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a)                                  Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 



 

(b)                                 Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c)                                  Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d)                                 Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e)                                  Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f)                                    Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g)                                 Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

6.                                       Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with

 

2



 

the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

7.                                       Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(a)                                  Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(b)                                 Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company  transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(c)                                  Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

8.                                       Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

9.                                       Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

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10.                                 Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

Submitted by:

 

 

Accepted by:

 

 

 

 

 

 

John O’Donnell

 

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

 

 

 

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

Address

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

4



 

EXHIBIT B

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

OPTIONEE:

 

John O’Donnell

 

 

 

COMPANY:

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

SECURITY:

 

COMMON STOCK

 

 

 

AMOUNT:

 

800,000 shares @ $0.70/share = $560,000.00

 

 

 

DATE:

 

March 29, 2001

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

(a)                                  Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

(b)                                 Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

(c)                                  Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to

 



 

the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

(d)                                 Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

 

John O’Donnell:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ John O’Donnell

 

 

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

April      , 2001

 

 

2


Exhibit 99.14

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

 

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

 

I.                                         NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

John O’Donnell

1300 White Oaks Road

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

July 18, 2002

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

April 1, 2002

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

$0.25

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

100,000

 

 

Total Exercise Price

$25,000

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

July 18, 2002

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

(25%) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become exercisable six months after the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one forty-eighth (1/48) of the Shares shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all such shares are exercisable based upon the Optionee’s continued employment with the corporation.

 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service

 



 

Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

II.                                     AGREEMENT

 

1.                                       Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

(a)                                  Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

(b)                                 Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

(c)                                  Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

(d)                                 Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

(e)                                  Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

(f)                                    Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(g)                                 Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

(h)                                 Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i)                                     Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

(j)                                     Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(k)                                  Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(l)                                     Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

(1)                                  If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such

 

2



 

exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

(2)                                  If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

(3)                                  In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(m)                               Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(n)                                 Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

(o)                                 Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p)                                 Option” means this stock option.

 

(q)                                 Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(r)                                    Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

(s)                                  Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

(t)                                    Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

(u)                                 Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

(v)                                 Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

2.                                       Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

3



 

3.                                       Exercise of Option.

 

(a)                                  Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

(b)                                 Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

(c)                                  Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

(d)                                 Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

4.                                       Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

5.                                       Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

(a)                                  cash or check;

 

(b)                                 consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

(c)                                  surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

6.                                       Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

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7.                                       Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

8.                                       Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

9.                                       Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

10.                                 Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

11.                                 Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

(a)                                  Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(b)                                 Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option

 

5



 

would not otherwise be exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

(c)                                  Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

12.                                 Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only  to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

13.                                 Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

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14.                                 Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

(a)                                  Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

(b)                                 Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

15.                                 Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

16.                                 NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

7



 

By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

JOHN O’DONNELL

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ John O’Donnell

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8



 

EXHIBIT A

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Rd.

Campbell, CA  95008-6723

 

Attention:                                         Secretary

 

1.                                       Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today,                            20    , the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase                    shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated July 18, 2002 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $                            , as required by the Option Agreement.

 

2.                                       Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

3.                                       Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

4.                                       Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

5.                                       Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a)                                  Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 



 

(b)                                 Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c)                                  Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d)                                 Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e)                                  Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f)                                    Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g)                                 Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

6.                                       Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with

 

2



 

the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

7.                                       Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(a)                                  Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(b)                                 Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company  transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(c)                                  Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

8.                                       Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

9.                                       Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

3



 

10.                                 Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

Submitted by:

 

Accepted by:

 

 

 

 

 

John O’Donnell

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

650 Page Mill Road

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

 

Palo Alto, CA 94304

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

Address

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

4



 

EXHIBIT B

 

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

 

OPTIONEE:

John O’Donnell

 

 

 

 

COMPANY:

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

SECURITY:

COMMON STOCK

 

 

 

 

AMOUNT:

 

 

 

 

 

DATE:

 

 

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

(a)                                  Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

(b)                                 Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

(c)                                  Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to

 

5



 

the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

(d)                                 Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

John O’Donnell:

 

 

 

/s/ John O’Donnell

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

 

2


Exhibit 99.15

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

 

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

 

I.                                         NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

 

John O’Donnell

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Road

Campbell, CA 95008

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

 

April 8, 2003

 

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

 

April 8, 2003

 

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

 

$0.008

 

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

 

819,072

 

 

 

Total Exercise Price

 

$6,552.58

 

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

 

April 8, 2013

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

Fifty-five percent (55%) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become immediately exercisable on the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one twenty-first (1/21) of the remainder of the Shares shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all shares are exercisable, provided that the Optionee continues to be a Service Provider on such dates.

 



 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

II.                                     AGREEMENT

 

1.                                       Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

(a)          Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

(b)         Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

(c)          Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

(d)         Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

(e)          Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

(f)            Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(g)         Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

(h)         Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i)             Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

(j)             Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(k)          Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(l)             Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

2



 

(1)                                  If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

(2)                                  If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

(3)                                  In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(m)       Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(n)         Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

(o)         Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p)         Option” means this stock option.

 

(q)         Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(r)            Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

(s)          Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

(t)            Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

(u)         Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

(v)         Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

2.                                       Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

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3.                                       Exercise of Option.

 

(a)          Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

(b)         Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

(c)          Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

(d)         Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

4.                                       Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

5.                                       Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

(a)          cash or check;

 

(b)         consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

(c)          surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

6.                                       Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

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7.                                       Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

8.                                       Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

9.                                       Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

10.                                 Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

11.                                 Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

(a)          Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(b)         Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option would not otherwise be

 

5



 

exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

(c)          Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

12.                                 Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

13.                                 Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

6



 

14.                                 Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

(a)          Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

(b)         Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

15.                                 Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

16.                                 NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

7



 

By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

John O’Donnell

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ John O’Donnell

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8



 

EXHIBIT A

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Rd.

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

Attention: Secretary

 

1.                                       Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today,             , 2003, the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase              shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated April 8, 2003 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $              , as required by the Option Agreement.

 

2.                                       Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

3.                                       Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

4.                                       Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

5.                                       Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a)          Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 



 

(b)         Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c)          Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d)         Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e)          Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f)            Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g)         Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

6.                                       Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with

 

2



 

the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

7.                                       Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(a)          Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(b)         Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(c)          Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

8.                                       Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

9.                                       Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

3



 

10.                                 Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

Submitted by:

 

Accepted by:

 

 

 

 

 

John O’Donnell

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

 

 

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

Address

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

4



 

EXHIBIT B

 

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

 

OPTIONEE:

John O’Donnell

 

 

COMPANY:

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

SECURITY:

COMMON STOCK

 

 

AMOUNT:

shares @ $0.008/share = $

 

 

DATE:

 

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

(a)          Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

(b)         Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

(c)          Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to

 



 

the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

(d)         Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

John O’Donnell:

 

 

 

/s/ John O’Donnell

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

2


Exhibit 99.16

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC

 

STAND-ALONE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT

 

 

I.                                         NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT

 

John S. O’Donnell

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Road

Campbell, CA 95008

 

You have been granted a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, as follows:

 

Date of Grant

November 11, 2003

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date

November 11, 2003

 

 

Exercise Price per Share

$0.008

 

 

Total Number of Shares Granted

5,020,865

 

 

Total Exercise Price

$40,166.92

 

 

Term/Expiration Date:

November 11, 2013

 

Vesting Schedule:

 

This Option shall vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule:

 

Seventy-two percent (72%) of the Shares subject to the Option shall become immediately exercisable on the Vesting Commencement Date set forth above, and an additional one thirteenth  (1/13) of the remainder of the Shares shall become exercisable on the first day of each calendar month thereafter, until all shares are exercisable, provided that the Optionee continues to be a Service Provider on such dates.

 



 

Termination Period

 

This Option may be exercised for three (3) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.  Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for one year after the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of this Agreement.  In no event shall this Option be exercised later that the Term/Expiration Date provided.

 

II.                                     AGREEMENT

 

1.                                       Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:

 

(a)          Agreement” means this stock option agreement between the Company and Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of this Option.

 

(b)         Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock options under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction that may apply to this Option.

 

(c)          Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee of the Board that has been designated by the Board to administer this Agreement.

 

(d)         Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

(e)          Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company.

 

(f)            Company” means Equator Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

 

(g)         Consultant” means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

 

(h)         Director” means a member of the Board.

 

(i)             Disability” means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

 

(j)             Employee” means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.  Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.

 

(k)          Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

(l)             Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:

 

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(1)                                  If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;

 

(2)                                  If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination; or

 

(3)                                  In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by the Board.

 

(m)       Nonstatutory Stock Option” means an Option not intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(n)         Notice of Grant” means a written notice, in Part I of this Agreement, evidencing certain the terms and conditions of this Option grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

 

(o)         Officer” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(p)         Option” means this stock option.

 

(q)         Optioned Stock” means the Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(r)            Optionee” means the person named in the Notice of Grant or such person’s successor.

 

(s)          Parent” means a “parent corporation,” whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

 

(t)            Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.

 

(u)         Share” means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 11 of this Agreement.

 

(v)         Subsidiary” means a “subsidiary corporation”, whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

 

2.                                       Grant of Option.  The Board hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement the Option to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the “Exercise Price”), subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

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3.                                       Exercise of Option.

 

(a)          Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of this Agreement.

 

(b)         Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to Secretary of the Company.  The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares.  This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.

 

(c)          Legal Compliance.  No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws.  Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.

 

(d)         Buyout Provisions.  The Board may at any time offer to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms and conditions as the Board shall establish and communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

 

4.                                       Optionee’s Representations.  In the event the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company, concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

5.                                       Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee:

 

(a)          cash or check;

 

(b)         consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company; or

 

(c)          surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares.

 

6.                                       Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.  The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

 

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7.                                       Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

8.                                       Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (other than for death or Disability), this Option may be exercised for a period of three (3) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that the Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

9.                                       Disability of Optionee.  If the Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee’s Disability, this Option may be exercised for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of such termination (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of such termination.  To the extent that Optionee does not exercise this Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

10.                                 Death of Optionee.  If the Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised at any time within twelve (12) months following the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration date of this Option as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee’s estate or by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Optionee was entitled to exercise the Option at the date of death.  If, after death, the Optionee’s estate or a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance does not exercise the Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate.

 

11.                                 Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset Sale.

 

(a)          Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by this Option, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by this Option, shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been “effected without receipt of consideration.”  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.  Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to this Option.

 

(b)         Dissolution or Liquidation.  In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Board shall notify Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.  The Board in its discretion may provide for the Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option would not otherwise be

 

5



 

exercisable.  To the extent it has not been previously exercised, the Option will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed

 

(c)          Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company, the Option shall be assumed or an equivalent option substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation.  In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable.  If the Option becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Board shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option shall terminate upon the expiration of such period.  For the purposes of this paragraph, the Option shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of assets.

 

12.                                 Lock-Up Period.  Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the “Managing Underwriter”) in connection with any registration of the offering of any securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the 180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the “Market Standoff Period”) following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act.  Such restriction shall apply only to the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act.  The Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.

 

13.                                 Notices.  Any notice to be given to the Company hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed to the Company. at its then current principal executive office or to such other address as the Company may hereafter designate to the Optionee by notice as provided in this Section.  Any notice to be given to the Optionee hereunder shall be addressed to the Optionee at the address set forth beneath his signature hereto, or at such other address as the Optionee may hereafter designate to the Company by notice as provided herein.  A notice shall be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail to the party entitled to receive it.

 

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14.                                 Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below.  THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.

 

(a)          Exercising the Option.  The Optionee may incur regular federal income tax liability upon exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock Option (an “NSO”).  The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price.  If the Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

 

(b)         Disposition of Shares.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

 

15.                                 Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  This Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

16.                                 NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER).  OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUES ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE’S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY’S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE’S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

 

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By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Optionee has reviewed this Agreement in its entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully understands all provisions of this Agreement.  Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Board upon any questions relating to this Agreement.  Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below.

 

 

John S. O’Donnell

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ John S. O’Donnell

 

/s/ Equator Technologies, Inc.

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8



 

EXHIBIT A

 

EQUATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

EXERCISE NOTICE

 

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

1300 White Oaks Rd.

Campbell, CA  95008-6723

 

Attention: Secretary

 

1.                                       Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today,             , 2003, the undersigned (“Purchaser”) hereby elects to purchase              shares (the “Shares”) of the Common Stock of Equator Technologies, Inc. (the “Company”) under and pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement dated November 11, 2003 (the “Option Agreement”).  The purchase price for the Shares shall be $              , as required by the Option Agreement.

 

2.                                       Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares.

 

3.                                       Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

 

4.                                       Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.  The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 11 of the Option Agreement.

 

5.                                       Company’s Right of First Refusal.  Before any Shares held by Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the “Holder”) may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this Section (the “Right of First Refusal”).

 

(a)          Notice of Proposed Transfer.  The Holder of the Shares shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the “Notice”) stating:  (i) the Holder’s bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee (“Proposed Transferee”); (iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and (iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder proposes to transfer the Shares (the “Offered Price”), and the Holder shall offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).

 



 

(b)         Exercise of Right of First Refusal.  At any time within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance with subsection (c) below.

 

(c)          Purchase Price.  The purchase price (“Purchase Price”) for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section shall be the Offered Price.  If the Offered Price includes consideration other than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be determined by the Board in good faith.

 

(d)         Payment.  Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made, at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee), or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.

 

(e)          Holder’s Right to Transfer.  If all of the Shares proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section, then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of such Proposed Transferee.  If the Shares described in the Notice are not transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be sold or otherwise transferred.

 

(f)            Exception for Certain Family Transfers.  Anything to the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or all of the Shares during the Optionee’s lifetime or on the Optionee’s death by will or intestacy to the Optionee’s immediate family or a trust for the benefit of the Optionee’s immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section.  “Immediate Family” as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister.  In such case, the transferee or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.

 

(g)         Termination of Right of First Refusal.  The Right of First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

6.                                       Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser’s purchase or disposition of the Shares.  Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with

 

2



 

the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

 

7.                                       Restrictive Legends and Stop-Transfer Orders.

 

(a)          Legends.  Optionee understands and agrees that the Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company or by state or federal securities laws:

 

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “ACT”) AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.

 

THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE ISSUER.  SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

(b)         Stop-Transfer Notices.  Optionee agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.

 

(c)          Refusal to Transfer.  The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Exercise Notice or (ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.

 

8.                                       Successors and Assigns.  The Company may assign any of its rights under this Exercise Notice to single or multiple assignees, and this Exercise Notice shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company.  Subject to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Exercise Notice shall be binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

 

9.                                       Interpretation.  Any dispute regarding the interpretation of this Exercise Notice shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting.  The resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on all parties.

 

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10.                                 Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Option Agreement is incorporated herein by reference.  This Agreement, and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser’s interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser.  This agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules, of California.

 

Submitted by:

 

Accepted by:

 

 

 

 

 

John S. O’Donnell

 

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1300 White Oaks Rd.

 

 

 

Campbell, CA 95008-6723

 

Address

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received:

 

 

 

4



 

EXHIBIT B

 

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT

 

 

OPTIONEE:

John S. O’Donnell

 

 

COMPANY:

Equator Technologies, Inc.

 

 

SECURITY:

COMMON STOCK

 

 

AMOUNT:

shares @ $0.008/share = $

 

 

DATE:

 

 

In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned Optionee represents to the Company the following:

 

(a)          Optionee is aware of the Company’s business affairs and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the Securities.  Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee’s own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any “distribution” thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

 

(b)         Optionee acknowledges and understands that the Securities constitute “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and have not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona fide nature of Optionee’s investment intent as expressed herein.  In this connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable if Optionee’s representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed period in the future.  Optionee further understands that the Securities must be held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is available.  Optionee further acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register the Securities.  Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.

 

(c)          Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701 and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance, permit limited public resale of “restricted securities” acquired, directly or indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to

 



 

the satisfaction of certain conditions.  Rule 701 provides that if the issuer qualifies under Rule 701 at the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  In the event the Company becomes subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by Rule 144, including:  (1) the resale being made through a broker in an unsolicited “broker’s transaction” or in transactions directly with a market maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and, in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.

 

In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph immediately above.

 

(d)         Optionee further understands that in the event all of the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in such transactions do so at their own risk.  Optionee understands that no assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be available in such event.

 

 

 

John S. O’Donnell

 

 

 

/s/ John S. O’Donnell

 

By

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

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