Item 1. Business.
For over 35 years, Electronic Systems Technology, Inc. (“EST”, “us”, “we”, “our” or the “Company”) has specialized in the development and manufacturing of digital data (non-voice) radio transceivers for use in industrial wireless networking applications. With reliance on wireless communication in the modern world, the global modernization of industrial control systems now requires the benefits gained by use of wireless technology. EST designs, manufactures, develops and produces these specialized, hardened products uniquely designed to operate and survive in these difficult environments in which these systems must perform.
The Company’s ESTeem® line of products provide innovative communication solutions for harsh environment applications not served or that are underutilized by conventional, commercial grade communication systems. Our products are part of the ESTeem® Industrial Wireless Solutions for commercial, industrial, and government arenas both domestically and internationally. We market through direct sales, sales representatives, resellers and system integrators
EST was incorporated in the State of Washington in February 1984 and was granted a United States Patent for the “Wireless Computer Modem” in May 1987, and Canadian patent in October 1988. We registered and commenced building brand recognition on the trade name of “ESTeem® Wireless Modems” in 2007. After reviewing for marketability and profitability, our strategy is to provide product improvements and enhancements that incorporate technological developments in response to customer needs and market opportunities arising from changes in FCC regulations or technological developments.
Development efforts in 2020 were focused primarily on software enhancements and hardware maintenance for the ESTeem® Horizon Series. These next generation industrial wireless products will improve our networking capability with higher data rates, improved security, improved support features and updates to the latest wireless standards.
In an effort to maintain and expand our customer base in the industrial control marketplace, we team with major automation hardware vendors such as Rockwell Automation. Our 29-year relationship with Rockwell Automation’s Encompass Program delivers significant benefits via increased exposure to markets that would not otherwise be available to us. Rockwell
Automation has the largest market share in the United States and is a major entity in the world-wide automation and controls marketplace.
PRODUCTS AND MARKETS
ESTeem® industrial wireless products provide communication links between computer networks, network enabled devices and mobile devices without cables. The widespread use of networked computer systems in business, industry and public service and the adoption of mobile devices in all aspects of modern life has created an environment where the wireless network is no longer a convenience but a necessity. As wireless networking proliferates through the modernization of the industrial sector the need for our products, which are specifically designed for rigors of operation in harsh environments, is increasing dramatically. Wireless networks are the backbone connections to the Internet for cloud-based services such as the Internet of Things (“IoT”) and Industrial Internet of Things (“IIoT”).
All of the ESTeem® models come with industry standard Ethernet (Internet) communication ports and legacy serial ports to provide the broadest range of connections for both new and legacy hardware. The combined features such as AES 128 or AES 256 security encryption, self-healing repeaters, mesh networking, long range operation and outdoor weatherproof cases make the ESTeem® products unique in our market space.
PRODUCT APPLICATIONS
Major applications and industries in which ESTeem® products are being utilized are as follows:
Water/Wastewater
Mining
Oil/Gas
Industrial Automation
PRODUCT LINES
We manufacture ten (10) models of the ESTeem® industrial wireless modems that operate in frequency from 150 MHz to 5.8 GHz. A wireless modem is a hardware device for sending and receiving data over a radio carrier and is the foundation of our industrial wireless solution. Each model will fit best in a specific application based upon several factors such as distance, required data rate and Federal Communication Commission (“FCC”) licensing requirements. Each wireless network is discussed in detail with the end customer to determine the best overall solution for their application. No single model or frequency band can solve all applications and having a diverse product selection is critical for expanding our customer base. The following is a summary of our product offering.
ADDITIONAL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
Various accessories to support the above products, e.g., antennas, power supplies and cable assemblies, are purchased from other manufacturers and resold by us to support the application of our industrial wireless modems for repairs and upgrades. To assist in the application of ESTeem industrial wireless modems, we also offer professional services, including site survey testing, system start-up, and custom engineering.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT AND NEW PRODUCTS
Our products compete in an environment of rapidly changing technology which results in the necessity for continuous updates and enhancements. Research and Development expenditures for new product development and improvements of existing products for 2020 and 2019 were $200,024 and $210,679 respectively. None of our research and development expenses were paid directly by any of our customers. We contract with third parties for software development and hardware design as needed. Development efforts during 2020 were focused primarily on software enhancements for the ESTeem® Horizon Series and the Edge900. Research and development expenditures will continue, in order to meet our customers’ evolving needs
MARKETING, CUSTOMERS AND SUPPORT
The majority of our products sold during 2020 were through the reselling efforts of non-exclusive, non-stocking distributors and resellers, and the remainder our sales were direct to end-users. Orders are generally place on an "as needed basis". Shipping of products is usually completed 1 to 15 working days after receipt of a customer order, with the exception of ongoing scheduled projects and custom designed equipment for specific applications. Our sales order backlog at year end was $0.
We advertise in trade publications and attend trade shows specifically targeting industrial automation systems. We provide support personnel and maintain an internet web site to provide access to product and technical information for customers. We provide technical support and service for our products and installations through phone support, field technicians and internet sources. High quality customer support is vital to differentiate ourselves in our marketplace. We intend to maintain this high level of customer support by investing in our customer service programs.
COMPETITION
All of our markets are highly competitive as there are approximately twenty major automation hardware manufacturers worldwide. Listed below are major competitors in the markets in which we compete.
We believe our products compete favorably based on performance, price, and adaptability of the products to a wide range of applications, as well as world class service and support.
PATENTS, TRADEMARKS, AND PROPRIETARY INFORMATION
To protect the Company against unauthorized disclosure of proprietary information belonging to the Company, all employees, dealers, distributors, original equipment manufacturers, sales representatives and other persons having access to confidential information regarding Company products or technology are bound by nondisclosure agreements. Rights to the ESTeem® Wireless Modems, trademark were renewed in 2014. The initial patents granted in 1987 and 1988 have expired and we currently have no patents on any of our products.
GOVERNMENT REGULATION
For operation in the United States, the ESTeem® industrial wireless products require FCC type acceptance which is granted for devices demonstrating operation within mandated and tested performance criteria. All of our products requiring FCC type acceptance have been granted such acceptance, and all except the Horizon4.9 have been granted such acceptance in Canada.
The ESTeem® industrial wireless products that operate in the FCC licensed frequency band require licensing under Part 90 of the FCC Rules and Regulations which must be applied for by the end user. We provide information to customers to assist in the application for FCC consumer licenses, although we cannot guarantee FCC licenses in a given frequency spectrum for a particular application will be received.
While there can be no assurance that future FCC regulations will not have material adverse effects on our operations, we are unaware of any such existing or proposed FCC regulations at this time.
SOURCE OF SUPPLY AND MANUFACTURING
Components are purchased through a number of distributors and key component suppliers, such as Hitachi, Motorola, and others, some of which have long lead times. Although these components could be replaced or substituted by other products, if necessary, a significant interruption or delay in their availability could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Approximately 43% of the Company’s inventory at December 31, 2020 consisted of parts having lead times ranging from 12 to 30 weeks. Some parts are maintained at high levels to assure availability to meet production requirements, thus, accounting for a significant portion of the Company’s inventory value. Based on past experience with component availability, distributor relationships, and inventory levels, we do not foresee shortages of materials. However, developments in the electronic component marketplace, which are also used in cellular phones, personal technology devices and other technology devices, have the potential of creating negative availability and delivery issues for components used by us. Although we have been able to procure parts on a timely basis as of the date of this report, however procurement cannot be guaranteed in the future. If shortages were to occur, material interruption of production and product delivery to customers would result.
The Company contracts with multiple companies for manufacturing of sub-assemblies and some engineering assistance services as needed. By contracting with these companies, the Company is able to avoid staff fluctuations associated with operating its own manufacturing and reduced capital investments in specialized manufacturing equipment. We review the costs for the services provided by these companies and regularly submits Requests for Quotes (RFQ) to multiple suppliers of these operations. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”, and “Financial Statements”.
ACCESS TO COMPANY INFORMATION
The Registrant does not issue annual or quarterly reports to security holders other than the annual Form 10-K and quarterly Forms 10-Q as electronically filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and available for viewing at www.sec.gov. Electronically filed reports may be accessed at www.sec.gov or via the Company’s website at www.esteem.com. We make available on our website such reports as soon as reasonably practicable after they are filed with the SEC.
EMPLOYEES
As of December 31, 2020, we employ 8 persons on a full-time basis (3 in sales/marketing, 1 in technical support, 3 in engineering/manufacturing, and 1 in finance and administration). The Company’s operations are dependent upon key members of its engineering and management personnel, which, if lost to the Company, could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Item 1A.
Item 1A. Risk Factors.
Our common stock value and our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition are subject to various risks, including, but not limited to those set forth below. If any of the following risks actually occurs, our common stock, business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition could be materially adversely affected. These risk factors should be carefully considered together with the other information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including the risks and uncertainties described under the heading “Forward-Looking Statements.” This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect the Company’s forward-looking statements. Some of the important risks and uncertainties that could affect forward-looking statements are described further under the sections titled “Risk Factors and Uncertainties”, “Description of Business” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis” of this Annual Report. If any of the events described in the risk factors below actually occur, our business, financial condition or results of operations could suffer significantly. In such case, the value of your investment could decline and you may lose all or part of the money you paid to buy our common stock. Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause actual events or results to differ from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation:
We cannot predict whether we will be able to sustain revenue growth, profitability or positive cash flow. Our products are sold in highly competitive markets. Our revenues and operating results may be negatively affected by technology changes in our markets, economic conditions in our markets, and the level of competition in our markets.
Our marketing efforts may be unsuccessful due to limited marketing and sales capabilities. Our limited national advertising and sales coverage may result in our markets not being fully penetrated. The lack of market penetration may result in an adverse effect on our revenues. We must continue to develop and maintain appropriate marketing, sales, technical, customer service and distribution capabilities, or enter into agreements with third parties to provide these services, to successfully market our products. A failure to develop these capabilities or obtain third-party agreements could adversely affect us.
We may be unable to produce products for sale if we are unable to obtain component materials. Our products require highly specialized components, which are subject to rapid obsolescence, limited availability and design change. Many of the components in our products are also used in cellular phone, pagers and other technology devices. If we cannot obtain material to produce products, our sales revenues will be negatively impacted.
Our success depends on our ability to retain key management personnel. The success of our Company depends in large part on our ability to attract and retain highly qualified management, administrative, manufacturing, sales, and research and development personnel. Due to the specialized nature of our business, it may be difficult to locate and hire qualified personnel. Our success is significantly dependent on the performance and continued service of key members of Management, such as Chief Executive Officer, Michael Eller, and certain other key employees. If the services of any members of Management become unavailable for any reason, our business and prospects could be adversely affected. Although we have been successful in retaining highly capable and qualified management in the past, there can be no assurance that we will be able to do so in the future.
We may be adversely affected by government regulation. The Federal Communication Commission (FCC) governs use of the products we sell. If the FCC were to implement rules detrimental to our products and the markets in which they are offered, our operations would be negatively impacted.
Rapid technological changes in our industry may adversely affect us if we do not keep pace with advancing technology. The wireless communication market is characterized by rapidly advancing technology. Our success depends on our ability to keep pace with advancing technology, processes and standards, such as cellular telephone based technology. We intend to continue to develop and enhance our products to meet perceived market opportunities. However, our development efforts may be rendered obsolete by research efforts and technological advances made by others, and devices other than those we currently produce may prove more advantageous.
We have material weaknesses in our internal controls which may result in us not being able to prevent or detect a material misstatement of our financial statements, which could harm our business and result in regulatory scrutiny. Pursuant to the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (“Section 404”), Management conducted an assessment of the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting for the year ending December 31, 2020. We determined that there continues to be material weakness affecting our internal control over financial reporting and, as a result of that weakness, our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of December 31, 2020. We have not maintained effective controls to
ensure appropriate segregation of duties due to our limited number of employees in finance and administration. The same employee is responsible for the initiating and recording of transactions, thereby creating segregation of duties weaknesses. Due to this weakness and absence of sufficient mitigating controls, we determined that this control deficiency resulted in a more than remote likelihood that material misstatement or lack of disclosure within the annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected. Avenues for mitigating our internal control weaknesses have been evaluated but mitigating controls have been deemed to be impractical and prohibitively costly due to the size of our organization at the current time. The material weakness in our internal controls may subject us to regulatory scrutiny with undetermined consequences.
The market for our common stock is limited and our shareholders may have difficulty reselling their shares when desired or at attractive market prices. Our stock price and our listing may make it more difficult for our shareholders to resell shares when desired or at attractive prices. Our Company stock trades on the “over-the-counter” market and is listed on OTCQB tier of the OTC Markets. Our common stock has continued to trade in low volumes and at low prices. Some investors view low-priced stocks as unduly speculative and therefore not appropriate candidates for investment. Many institutional investors have internal policies prohibiting the purchase or maintenance of positions in low-priced stocks.
Item 1B.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.
None.
Item 2.
Item 2. Properties.
We do not own any real property, plants, mines, or any other materially important physical properties. The Company's administrative offices, inventory and laboratories are located in leased facilities at 415 N. Roosevelt Street, STE B1, Kennewick, Washington. The Company leases approximately 5,270 square feet of office and laboratory space by a lease agreement with the Port of Kennewick in Kennewick, Washington. As of December 31, 2020, the total monthly lease cost, including tax, is $3,568. The lease covers a period of two years, expiring September 2022.
We also own miscellaneous assets, such as computer equipment, laboratory equipment, and furnishings. We maintain insurance in such amounts and covering such losses, contingencies and occurrences deemed adequate to protect our property. Insurance coverage includes a comprehensive liability policy covering legal liability for bodily injury or death of persons, and for property owned by, or under our control, as well as damage to the property of others. We also maintain fidelity insurance which provides coverage to the Company in the event of employee dishonesty.
Item 3.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings.
EST is not a party to any material legal proceedings and, to management’s knowledge, no such proceedings are threatened or contemplated.
Item 4.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosure.
Not Applicable
PART II
Item 5.
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
The closing price for our common stock on the OTCQB was $0.376 on March 1, 2021.
There were 342 holders of record of our Common Stock as of March 1, 2021.
Our stock transfer agent is EQ Shareowner Services, 320 Cherry Creek Drive South, Suite 435, Denver CO 80209.
The Company does not maintain any form of Equity Compensation Plan.
Stock Repurchases
On January 13, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a resolution authorizing the repurchase of up to $100,000 of the Company’s common stock at the price of $0.38 per share. The Company’s share repurchase program does not obligate it to acquire any specific number of shares. On March 2, 2016 the Company’s Board of Director approved a resolution authorizing the repurchase of an additional $150,000 of the Company’s common stock at the price of $0.38 per share. Under the program (the “Stock Repurchase Plan”), shares may be repurchased in open market transactions, complying with Rule 10b5-1 and Rule 10b-18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Shares repurchased are retired. On April 23, 2020, repurchases were suspended indefinitely.
The following table shows the Company’s activity and related information for the year ended December 31, 2020 under the Stock Repurchase Plan.
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Period
Total number of shares purchased
Average price paid per share
Total number of shares purchased as part of publicly announced plans or programs
Maximum number of shares that may yet be purchased under the plans or programs
January 1, 2017-January 31, 2017
98,764
$0.38
98,764
559,130
February 1, 2017-February 28, 2017
559,130
March 1, 2017-March 31,2017
7,725
$0.38
106,489
551,405
April 1, 2017-April 30, 2017
45,601
$0.38
152,090
505,804
May 1, 2017-June 30, 2017
505,804
July 1, 2017-July 31, 2017
8,642
$0.38
160,732
497,162
August 1, 2017-August 31, 2017
11,887
$0.38
172,619
485,275
September 1, 2017-December 31, 2017
485,275
January 1, 2018 - November 31, 2018
485,275
December 1, 2018 - December 31, 2018
$0.38
172,919
484,975
January 1, 2019 - January 31, 2019
39,246
$0.38
212,165
445,729
February 1, 2019 - December 31, 2019
445,729
Total
212,165
$0.38
212,165
445,729
Item 6.
Item 6. Selected Financial Data.
We are a “smaller reporting company” as defined by Regulation S-K and as such, are not required to provide this information.
Item 7.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Management’s discussion and analysis is provided as supplement to, and is intended to be read in conjunction with, the Company’s audited financial statements and the accompanying integral notes (“Notes”) thereto. The following statements may be forward-looking in nature and actual results may differ materially.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
GENERAL: We specialize in the manufacturing and development of data radio products. The Company offers product lines which provide innovative communication solutions for applications not served by existing conventional communication systems. We offer product lines in markets for process automation in commercial, industrial and government arenas domestically as well as internationally. We market our products through direct sales, sales representatives, and domestic, as well as foreign, resellers. Operations are sustained solely from revenues received through sales of its products and services.
As a result of COVID-19, and governmental responses thereto, are experiencing some negative impacts to our business, primarily as a result of reductions in staffing by our customers, and their customers, which is lengthening our normal sales cycles. Many of our customers are also restricting visits from vendors. All of our planned trade shows and sales presentations have been canceled or postponed as a result of the risks associated with face to face meetings. We have utilized various platforms to provide current customers and potential customers with presentations about our products and services. We have also experienced some delays in our supply chain but none of these COVID-19 related disruptions, to the supply chain, has been significant at this point.
FISCAL YEAR 2020 vs. FISCAL YEAR 2019
GROSS REVENUES: Total revenues for the fiscal year 2020 were $1,225,372 reflecting a decrease of 13.0% from $1,408,548 in gross revenues for fiscal year 2019. During the year ended December 31, 2020, two customers sales accounted for more than 10% of the total sales revenues. The decrease in total revenues is the result of decreased product sales during 2020. Domestic Sales for the fiscal year were $927,494 compared to $1,179,146 in 2019. Sales to Foreign Customers for the fiscal year were $297,878 compared to $229,402 in 2019. Product sales decreased to $1,181,022 in 2020, as compared to 2019 sales of $1,367,171 reflecting a decrease of 13.6%.
Interest revenues during 2020 decreased to $10,736 from 2019 level of $22,198 due to the decreased interest rates for the certificates of deposit held by the Company and the reduction of the value of the certificates held during 2020.
As of December 31, 2020, the Company had sales backlog of $0. The Company’s customers generally place orders on an "as needed basis". Shipment of the Company’s products is generally completed within 1 to 15 working days after receipt of customer orders, with the exception of ongoing, scheduled projects, and custom designed equipment for specific customer applications.
COST OF SALES: Cost of Sales, as a percentage of net sales, was 49% and 47% respectively, for 2020 and 2019. Cost of Sales variances are the result of differences in the product mix sold and occurrences of obsolete inventory expense, as well as differences in the price discounting structure for the mix of products sold during the period.
INVENTORY: The Company's year-end inventory values for 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
The Company's objective is to maintain inventory levels as low as possible to provide maximum cash liquidity, while at the same time meet production and delivery requirements.
OPERATING EXPENSES: Operating expenses decreased to $839,173 in 2020 from 2019 levels of $957,438. Significant changes in expenses are comprised of the following components: Travel $28,663 decrease, Trade show $13,710 decrease, Professional services $7,989 decrease, Rent $5,003 decrease, and Write off of uncollectible account $75,035 decrease. Depreciation expense decreased during 2020 to $6,953 from 2019 levels of $7,970 due to the Company’s decreased capital purchases.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company’s revenues and expenses resulted in a net loss of $202,719 for 2020, an increase from a net loss of $190,957 for 2019. At December 31, 2020, the Company's working capital was $1,676,530 compared with $1,695,255 at December 31, 2019. The Company’s operations rely solely on the income generated from sales. The Company's major capital resource requirements are payment of employee salaries and benefits and maintaining inventory levels adequate for production. Extended availability for components critical for production of the Company’s products, ranging from 12 to 30 weeks, require the Company to maintain high inventory levels. It is management’s opinion that the Company’s working capital as of December 31, 2020 is adequate for expected resource requirements for the next twelve months.
The Company's current asset to current liability ratio at December 31, 2020 was 20.7:1 compared to 11.8:1 at December 31, 2019. The increase in current asset ratio is the result of the Company having increased accounts receivable and decreased accounts payable for year-end 2020 when compared with year-end 2019. The Company's liquid resources at December 31, 2020, including cash and cash equivalent and certificates of deposits, were $808,109, compared to $924,936 at December 31, 2019. The decrease in liquid resources is the result of the 2020 operating loss. The Company's accounts receivable at December 31, 2020 were $288,884, compared to $76,959 at December 31, 2019. Management believes that all Company accounts receivable as of December 31, 2020 are collectible and does not have a reserve for uncollectable accounts.
The Company believes the level of risk associated with customer receipts on export sales is minimal. Foreign shipments are made only after payment has been received or on Net 30 day credit terms to established foreign companies with which the Company has distributor relationships. Foreign orders are generally filled as soon as they are received therefore; foreign exchange rate fluctuations do not impact the Company.
Inventories at December 31, 2020 were $631,707, reflecting a decrease from December 31, 2019 of $822,819. The decrease in inventory between December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, is due to the reduction of sales and not purchasing to pre-COVID levels of inventory.
We had no capital expenditures during 2020. The Company intends on investing in additional capital equipment as deemed necessary to support development and manufacture of current and future products.
As of December 31, 2020, our current liabilities decreased to $84,916, from $156,909 at December 31, 2019. The decrease in current liabilities was impacted by a decrease in accounts payable to $21,113 from $101,548.
We had no off-balance sheet arrangements for the year ended December 31, 2020.
Inflation had minimal adverse effect on the Company’s operations during 2020. Minimal adverse effect is anticipated during 2021.
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS: The above discussion may contain forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. These factors are more fully described in the “Risk Factors” section of Item 1A of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. In addition to the factors discussed above, among other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are the following: competitive factors such as rival wireless architectures and price pressures; availability of third party component products at reasonable prices; inventory risks due to shifts in market demand and/or price erosion of purchased components; change in product mix, rapid advances in competing technologies and risk factors that are listed in the Company’s reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Item 7A.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
Not Applicable.
Item 8.
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
DBA ESTEEM WIRELESS MODEMS
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLIMENTAL SCHEDULE
AND
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020 AND 2019
Page
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Financial Statements:
Balance Sheets
Statements of Operations
Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity
Statements of Cash Flows
Notes to Financial Statements
20-29
Supplemental Schedule
30-31
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders
Electronic Systems Technology, Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Electronic Systems Technology, Inc. (“the Company”) as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, and the related statements of operations, changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the financial statements). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matters
Critical audit matters are matters arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. We determined that there are no critical audit matters.
Supplemental Information
The supplemental schedule of operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 (“the supplemental information”) has been subjected to audit procedures performed in conjunction with the audit of the Company's financial statements. The supplemental information is the responsibility of the Company's management. Our audit procedures included determining whether the supplemental information reconciles to the financial statements or the underlying accounting and other records, as applicable, and performing procedures to test the completeness and accuracy of the information presented in the supplemental information. In forming our opinion on the supplemental information, we evaluated whether the supplemental information, including its form and
content, is presented in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In our opinion, the supplemental information is fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the financial statements as a whole.
/s/ Assure CPA, LLC. (formerly DeCoria, Maichel & Teague, P.S.)
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2012.
Spokane, Washington
March 3, 2021
See Notes to Financial Statements.
See Notes to Financial Statements.
See Notes to Financial Statements.
See Notes to Financial Statements.
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1.Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Business Organization
The Company was incorporated under the laws of the State of Washington on February 10, 1984, primarily to develop, produce, sell and distribute wireless modems that will allow communication between peripherals via radio frequency waves.
Effective September 13, 2007, the Company announced their establishment of a “doing business as” or dba structure, based on the Company’s registered trade name of ESTeem® Wireless Modems.
Basis of Presentation and Accounting Estimates
The preparation of financial statements are prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States which requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Estimates used in the accompanying financial statements include the allowance for doubtful accounts receivable, inventory obsolescence, useful lives of depreciable assets, share-based compensation, and deferred income taxes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Concentrations and Credit Risks
The Company places its cash with three major financial institutions. During the period, the Company had cash balances that were in excess of federally insured limits.
The Company purchases certain key components necessary for the production of its products from a limited number of suppliers. The components provided by the suppliers could be replaced or substituted by other products. It is possible that if this action became necessary, an interruption of production and/or material cost expenditures could take place.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenue when it has satisfied the performance obligation required under a contract with the customer. A performance obligation is a promise in a contract with a customer to transfer a distinct good or service to the customer. Our contracts with customers contain a single performance obligation. A contract's transaction price is recognized as revenue when, or as, the performance obligation is satisfied.
Performance obligations for product sales are satisfied as of a point in time. Revenue is recognized when control of the product transfers to the customer, generally upon product shipment. Performance obligations for site support and engineering services are satisfied over-time if the customer receives the benefits as we perform work and we have a contractual right to payment. Revenue recognized on an over-time basis is based on costs incurred to date relative to milestones and total estimated costs at completion to measure progress.
The Company considers the contractual consideration payable by the customer when determining the transaction price of each contract. Revenue is recorded net of charges for certain sales incentives and discounts, and applicable state and local sales taxes, which represent components of the transaction
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
price. Charges are estimated by us upon shipment of the product based on contractual terms, and actual
charges typically do not vary materially from our estimates. Shipping estimates are determined by utilizing shipping costs provided by the various service providers websites based on number of packages, weight and destination. Shipping costs are included in the cost of goods sold as the revenue is captured in total sales.
The Company receives payments from customers based on the terms established in our contracts. When amounts are billed and collected before the services are performed, they are included in deferred revenues. The Company does not generally sell its products with the right of return. Therefore, returns are accounted for when they occur and are accepted. Products sold to foreign customers are shipped after payment is received in U.S. funds, unless an established distributor relationship exists, or the customer is a foreign branch of a U.S. company.
The Company warrants its products as free of manufacturing defects and provides a refund of the purchase price, repair or replacement of the product for a period of one year from the date of installation by the first user/customer. No allowance for estimated warranty repairs or product returns has been recorded due to the Company’s historical experience of repairs and product returns.
Financial Instruments
The Company’s financial instruments are cash, money market funds, and certificates of deposit. The recorded values of cash, money market funds and certificates of deposit approximate their fair values based on their short-term nature.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents are cash and money market funds purchased with original maturities of three months or less.
Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts
The Company uses the allowance method to account for estimated uncollectible accounts receivable. Accounts receivable are presented net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company’s estimate of doubtful accounts was zero. The Company’s policy for writing off past due accounts receivable is based on the time past due and responses received from the subject customer.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at lower of direct cost or market. Cost is determined on an average cost basis that approximates the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Market is determined based on net realizable value and consideration is given to obsolescence.
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Reclassifications
Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified for consistency with the current period presentation. Reclassifications had no effect on net loss, stockholders' equity, or cash flows as previously reported.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment is carried at cost. Major betterments are capitalized and de minimis purchases are expensed. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. The useful life of property and equipment for purposes of computing depreciation is three to seven years. When the Company sells or otherwise disposes of property and equipment a gain or loss is recorded in the statement of operations. The cost of improvements that extend the life of property and equipment is capitalized. The Company periodically reviews its long-lived assets for impairment and, upon indication that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable, recognizes an impairment loss by a charge against current operations.
Certificates of Deposit
Certificates of deposit with original maturities ranging from one month to twelve months were
$499,999 and $650,000 at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Software Costs
Software purchased and used by the Company is capitalized as property and equipment based on its cost, and amortized over its useful life, usually not exceeding five years.
The Company capitalizes the costs of creating a software product to be sold, leased or otherwise marketed, for which technological feasibility has been established. Amortization of the software product, on a product-by-product basis, begins on the date the product is available for distribution to customers and continues over the estimated revenue-producing life, not to exceed five years.
Income Taxes
The provision (benefit) for income taxes is computed on the pretax income (loss) based on the current tax law. Deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences in future years of differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their financial reporting amounts at each year-end based on enacted tax laws and statutory tax rates. The Company evaluates positive and negative information when estimating the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets. For tax positions that meet the more likely than not recognition threshold a deferred tax asset is recognized.
Research and Development
Research and development costs are recognized as operating expenses when incurred. Research and development expenditures for new product development and improvements of existing products by the Company for 2020 and 2019 were $200,024 and $210,679, respectively.
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Advertising Costs
Costs incurred for producing and communicating advertising are recognized as operating expenses when incurred. Advertising costs for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 were $6,351 and $6,735, respectively.
Earnings Per Share
The Company is required to have dual presentation of basic earnings per share (“EPS”) and diluted EPS. Basic EPS is computed as net income (loss) divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS is calculated based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period plus the effect of potentially dilutive common stock equivalents.
Potentially dilutive common stock equivalents consist of 180,000 and 120,000 stock options outstanding as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, the potentially dilutive stock options were not included in the calculation of the diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding or diluted EPS as their effect would have been anti-dilutive.
Share-Based Compensation
Share-based payments to employees, including grants of employee stock options, are measured at fair value and expensed in the statement of operations over the vesting period. In addition to the recognition of expense in the financial statements, any excess tax benefits received upon exercise of options will be presented as a financing activity inflow rather than an adjustment of operating activity in the statement of cash flows.
Fair Value Measurements
When required to measure assets or liabilities at fair value, the Company uses a fair value hierarchy based on the level of independent, objective evidence surrounding the inputs used. The Company determines the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements in their entirety fall. The categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Level 1 uses quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities, Level 2 uses significant other observable inputs, and Level 3 uses significant unobservable inputs. The amount of the total gains or losses for the period are included in earnings that are attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to those assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company has no assets or liabilities subject to fair value measurements on a recurring basis.
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
New Accounting Pronouncements
In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-13 Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement. The update removes, modifies and makes additions to the disclosure requirements on fair value measurements. The update is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this update on January 1, 2020 had no impact on the financial statements.
Other accounting standards that have been issued or proposed by FASB that do not require adoption until a future date are not expected to have a material impact on the financial statements upon adoption.
2.Inventories
Inventories consist of the following:
Parts
$ 99,303
$ 116,843
Work in progress
275,230
379,987
Finished goods
257,174
325,989
$ 631,707
$ 822,819
Included in the above amounts are reserves for obsolete inventories of $4,730 and $7,798 at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
3.Property and Equipment
Property and equipment consist of the following:
Laboratory equipment
$ 522,575
$ 531,999
Software
35,028
35,028
Furniture and fixtures
15,262
16,312
Dies and molds
73,607
73,607
646,472
656,946
Accumulated depreciation and amortization
(641,027)
(644,548)
$ 5,445
$ 12,398
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
4.Income Taxes
For the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company did not have an income tax benefit nor provision because of continuing losses.
The components of net deferred tax assets are as follows:
Realization of the deferred tax asset is dependent on generating sufficient taxable income prior to expiration of the loss carryforwards and the income tax carryforwards. Management determined that it does not believe it is more likely than not that all of the net deferred tax assets will be realized. Therefore, a valuation allowance has been recorded for the full net deferred tax asset at December 31, 2020 and 2019.
At December 31, 2020, the Company had approximately $67,000 of research and development income tax credits available to reduce federal income taxes in future periods. The credits expire from 2034-2038. In addition, at December 31, 2020, the Company had approximately $1,200,000 of net operating loss carryforwards, $750,000 of which will expire between 2034 and 2037. The remaining balance of $450,000 will never expire but whose utilization is limited to 80% of taxable income in any future year.
The differences between the provision (benefit) for federal income taxes and federal income taxes computed using the U.S. statutory federal income tax rate of 21% were as follows:
Amount computed using the statutory rate
$ (42,600)
$(40,100)
Non-deductible (taxable) items, net
(1,800)
Change in estimates
(400)
4,350
Change in valuation allowance
44,800
35,300
Provision (benefit) for federal income taxes
$ -
$-
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Should the Company have future accrued interest expense and penalties related to uncertain income tax positions, they will recognize those expenses in income tax expense.
The Company files federal income tax returns in the United States only. The Company is no longer subject to federal income tax examination by tax authorities for years before 2017. The Company has evaluated all tax positions for open years and has concluded that they have no material unrecognized tax benefits or penalties.
5.Profit Sharing Salary Deferral 401-K Plan
The Company sponsors a Profit-Sharing Plan and Salary Deferral 401-K Plan and Trust. All employees over the age of twenty-one are eligible. On January 1, 2006, the Company adopted a four percent salary matching provision. The Company contributed $15,659 and $15,854 to the plan for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
6.Employee Bonus Program
The Board of Directors establishes Sales and Net Income thresholds at the start of each year that are used in calculating the amount of bonuses that may be awarded. If these thresholds are not achieved, there will be no bonus issued. There was no accrual or expense recorded for 2020 or 2019.
7.Share-Based Compensation
The Company grants stock options to individual employees and directors with three years continuous tenure. After termination of employment, stock options may be exercised within ninety days, after which they are subject to forfeiture. On March 13, 2020, the Board of Directors canceled all 120,000 outstanding stock options that were granted on August 7, 2017 and were due to expire on August 6, 2020. In addition, the Board of Directors granted 180,000 options to employees. The new options have an exercise price of $0.40, a term of 5 years, and vested immediately. The fair value of the options was determined using the Black-Scholes model using the following variables: stock price of $0.40, volatility of 79.27%, expected term of 5 years with a forfeiture rate of 95%, and a discount factor of 0.72%. Share based compensation of $2,283 was recognized in 2020.
In the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company recognized $2,283 and $0 respectively, in share-based compensation expense. No non-vested share-based compensation arrangements existed as of December 31, 2020 and 2019.
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
A summary of option activity follows:
Number Outstanding
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Option
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)
Balance at December 31, 2018
120,000
$ 0.40
1.6
Granted
-
-
Expired/Forfeited
-
-
Balance at December 31, 2019
120,000
0.40
1.6
Granted
180,000
0.40
4.2
Expired/Forfeited/Cancelled
(120,000)
0.40
Balance at December 31, 2020
180,000
$ 0.40
4.2
Outstanding and Exercisable at December 31, 2020
180,000
$ 0.40
4.2
The aggregate intrinsic value of the options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2020 was nil.
8.Leases
On September 23, 2020, the Company signed a new two-year lease for its facilities. The base lease is $3,162 and $3,267 per month for years one and two, respectively. There is a leasehold tax applied to the base lease at 12.84%. The Company has the right to terminate the lease with 90 days’ notice. There is no renewal clause contained in the current lease. Upon signing the lease, the Company recognized a lease liability and right of use asset of $74,005 based on the two-year payment stream discounted using an estimated incremental borrowing rate of 4.0%. At December 31, 2020, the remaining lease term is eighteen months.
Prior to the new lease in September 23, 2020, the Company’s lease for its facilities was for $5,639 per month.
As of December 31, 2020, total future lease payments are as follows:
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, costs relating to the operating lease were recognized in the statement of operations as follows:
9.Revenue
The Company derives revenues from the sales of industrial wireless products and accessories such as antennas, power supplies and cable assemblies. The Company also provides direct site support and engineering services to customers, such as repair and upgrade of its products. The Company’s customers, to which trade credit terms are extended, consist of United States and local governments and foreign and domestic companies.
For the 12-month period ended December 31, 2020, sales to two customers represented more than 10% of total revenue. Two customers represented more than 10% of total revenue for the same period in 2019.
2020 Sales
2020 %age of Total Sales
2019 Sales
2019%age of Total Sales
Foreign customer A
$ 180,331
14.7%
$ -
0.0%
Domestic customer A
$ 158,483
12.9%
$ 199,795
14.22%
As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company had a sales order backlog of $0 and $34,801, respectively.
10.Stock Repurchase
On January 13, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a resolution authorizing the repurchase of up to $100,000 of the Company’s common stock at the price of $0.38 per share. The Company’s share repurchase program does not obligate it to acquire any specific number of shares. On March 2, 2016, the Company’s Board of Director approved a resolution authorizing the repurchase of an additional $150,000 of the Company’s common stock at the price of $0.38 per share. Under the program (the “Stock Repurchase Plan”), shares may be repurchased in open market transactions. Shares repurchased are retired.
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company repurchased 0 and 39,246 shares of its common stock for $0 and $14,920, respectively. As of December 31, 2020, the Company has repurchased a total of 212,165 shares for a total cost of $80,629 and a balance of $169,371 remains of the original $250,000 approved by the board. On April 23, 2020, repurchases were suspended indefinitely.
11.Cares Act Loan Payable
On March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (the “CARES Act”) Act was signed into United States law.
In April 2020, the Company received a loan of $171,712 pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under Division A, Title I, Section 1102 and 1106 of the CARES Act. The loan, which was in the form of a promissory note, as amended, dated April 13, 2020 issued by the Company (the “Note”); the Note matures on April 13, 2022 and bears interest at a rate of 1% per annum. The Note may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties. Under the terms of the PPP, certain amounts of the loan may be forgiven if they are used for qualifying expenses as described in the CARES Act. Qualifying expenses include payroll costs, costs used to continue group health care benefits, mortgage payments, rent, and utilities. As of December 31, 2020, the Company has used funds from the loan to pay qualifying expenses. The Company has applied for forgiveness of the loan. If and when approved, grant income of $171,712 will be recognized.
During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company received $9,000 under Division A, Title I, Section 1110 of the CARES Act. The Company is not required to pay this amount back and recognized $9,000 as government grant income during the year.
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
DBA ESTEEM WIRELESS MODEMS
SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE
Item 9.
Item 9. Changes In and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.
None
Item 9A.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.
Disclosure Controls and Procedures.
Under the supervision and with the participation of our Management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Principal Accounting Officer, these positions are currently held by the same individual, we have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such terms are defined under Rule 13a-15(e) and Rule 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Principal Accounting Officer have concluded that there was a material weakness affecting our internal control over financial reporting and, as a result of this weakness, our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of December 31, 2020.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.
The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Internal control over financial reporting includes maintaining records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect our transactions; providing reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary for preparation of our financial statements; providing reasonable assurance that receipts and expenditures of company assets are made in accordance with management authorization; and providing reasonable assurance that unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of company assets that could have a material effect on our financial statements would be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting is not intended to provide absolute assurance that a misstatement of our financial statements would be prevented or detected.
As of December 31, 2020, management conducted an assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting established in “Internal Control - Integrated Framework,” (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO) of the Treadway Commission. Management, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Principal Accounting Officer, assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020 and concluded that it is ineffective in assuring that the financial reports of the Company are free from material errors or misstatements. The material weakness is as follows:
We did not maintain effective controls to ensure appropriate segregation of duties as the same officer and employee was responsible for the initiating and recording of transactions, thereby creating segregation of duties weaknesses. Due to the (1) significance of segregation of duties to the preparation of reliable financial statements, (2) the significance of potential misstatement that could have resulted due to the deficient controls and (3) the absence of sufficient other mitigating controls, we determined that this control deficiency resulted in more than a remote likelihood that a material misstatement or lack of disclosure within the annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected.
Management’s Remediation Initiatives
Management has evaluated and continues to evaluate, avenues for mitigating our internal controls weaknesses, but mitigating controls have been deemed to be impractical and cost prohibitive due to the size of our organization at the current time. Management does not foresee implementing a cost effective method of mitigating our internal control weaknesses in the near term. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that misstatements due to error or fraud will not occur or that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision making can be faulty and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. The design of any system of controls is based in part on certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions. Projections of any evaluation of controls effectiveness to future periods are subject to risks.
Changes in internal control over financial reporting.
During the quarter ended December 31, 2020, there were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Item 9B.
Item 9B. Other Information.
None
PART III
Item 10.
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.
IDENTIFICATION OF DIRECTORS:
The following table sets forth the names and ages of all directors of the Company as of December 31, 2019 as well as the term in office and principal occupation of each director.
Management believes that there are no agreements or understanding between the directors and suppliers or contractors of the Company.
Audit Committee
The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors as of December 31, 2020 is comprised of Don Siecke (Chairman) and Tom Schaefer. The Audit Committee met on one occasion in 2020. The Board of Directors has determined that Mr. Siecke is an “audit committee financial expert” as defined in Item 407(d)(5) of Regulation S-K promulgated by the SEC. The Board’s conclusions regarding the qualifications of Mr. Siecke as an audit committee financial expert were based on his experience as a certified public accountant and his degree in accounting.
The Board has also adopted a charter for the Audit Committee. The charter for the audit committee is available on our website at www.esteem.com . The audit committee charter is also available in print to any shareholder who requests it.
Compensation Committee
There is no Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors did establish an Employee/Director Stock Option Committee consisting of all Directors. The committee existed for the sole purpose of recommending the recipients and amounts of the Company awarded stock options during 2020. There is no charter for the Employee/Director Stock Option Committee.
Code of Ethics
On September 22, 2020, the Company's Board of Directors adopted a Code of Ethics for the Company. The Codes of Ethics, and any subsequent amendments thereto, (other than technical, administrative, or non-substantive amendments), and any waivers of a provision of the Code of Ethics for directors or executive officers, are available on our website at www.esteem.com.
IDENTIFICATION OF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The following table sets forth the names and ages of all executive officers of the Company as of December 31, 2020; all positions by such persons; term of office and the period during which he has served as such; and any arrangement or understanding between him and any other person(s) pursuant to which he was elected as an officer:
The following is a brief description of the business experience during the last five years of each director and/or executive officer of the Company.
T.L. KIRCHNER. Mr. Kirchner is founder, Past President and a Director of the Company. Mr. Kirchner does not serve as a director for any other company registered under the Securities Exchange Act.
VERN D. KORNELSEN. Mr. Kornelsen is the General Partner of EDCO Partners LLLP. Mr. Kornelsen formerly practiced as a certified public accountant in Denver, CO for many years and is a financial consultant to several early stage companies. He was a director of Valleylab for 10 years and led an investor group that provided a portion of its initial funding. Mr. Kornelsen has been a director and participated in the capitalizing of a number of early stage companies, and is currently a director and audit-committee member of a publicly-held company, Encision Inc. of Boulder, CO. He is also the Chairman, Secretary, Director, and CFO of Lifeloc Technologies, Inc., a publicly-held company located in Wheat Ridge, CO.
THOMAS J. SCHAEFER: Mr. Schaefer is Vice President of Online Development Inc. a division of Softing AG based in Munich, Germany. He is responsible for business development activities and the integration of new business acquisitions. Prior to his current position Tom was President of Phoenix Digital Corporation a privately held company based in Scottsdale, AZ that provides redundant mission critical networking technology for industrial automation systems. Mr. Schaefer also spent 30 years at Rockwell Automation. His last assignment, at Rockwell, was the Global Industry Manager for Rockwell’s Water Industry focus. During Mr. Schaefer’s tenure at Rockwell he held various positions that included P&L responsibility for the Service business unit, Sales and Marketing for Software/MES, and Sales and Application responsibility for the Drive Systems/Power Products group.
DONALD E. SIECKE. Mr. Siecke practiced as a certified public accountant in the state of Colorado from 1963 to 1976. He has been president of Kelmore Development Corp., a real estate development company, since 1981, and serves as the chairman of Redstone Bank, a Colorado bank of which he was a founding director. He is a director of several privately held companies, metropolitan districts, and charitable organizations. He received a BS degree in business administration from the University of Denver in 1961, having majored in accounting.
MICHAEL W. ELLER. Mr. Eller is the President and Principal Accounting Officer. During the last five years Mr. Eller has been a full-time employee of the Company. Prior to joining EST Mr. Eller was employed at Macys Logistics and Operations where he was employed as the Vice President of Operations and Director of Finances. Mr. Eller does not serve as a director for any other company registered under the Securities Exchange Act.
Family Relationships
None.
Section 16(A) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
During the year ended December 31, 2020 to the knowledge of Management, there was no director, officer, or beneficial owner of more than 10% any class of equity securities of the registrant who failed to file on a timely basis the required disclosure form as required by Section 16(a) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934.
Indemnification
The Company’s By-Laws address indemnification of Directors and Officers. Washington Law provides that Washington corporations may include within their Articles of Incorporation provisions eliminating or limiting the personal liability of their directors and officers in shareholder actions brought to obtain damages for alleged breaches of fiduciary duties, as long as the alleged acts or omissions did not involve intentional misconduct, fraud, a knowing violation of law or payment of dividends in violation of the Washington statutes. Washington law also allows Washington corporations to include in their Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws provisions to the effect that expenses of officers and directors incurred in defending a civil or criminal action must be paid by the corporation as they are incurred, subject to an undertaking on behalf of the officer or director that he or she will repay such expenses if it is ultimately determined by a court of competent jurisdiction that such officer or director is not entitled to be indemnified by the corporation because such officer or director did not act in good faith and in a manner reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation. The Company’s Articles of Incorporation provide that a director or officer is not personally liable to the Company or its shareholders for damages for any breach of fiduciary duty as a director or officer, except for liability for (i) acts or omissions which involve intentional misconduct, fraud or a knowing violation of law, or (ii) the payment of distribution in violation of Washington Business Corporation Act.
Related Person Transactions Policy and Procedures
As set forth in the written charter of the Audit Committee, any related person transaction involving a Company director or executive officer must be reviewed and approved by the Audit Committee. Any member of the Audit Committee who is a related person with respect to a transaction under review may not participate in the deliberations or vote on the approval or ratification of the transaction. Related persons include any director or executive officer, certain shareholders and any of their “immediate family members” (as defined by SEC regulations).
Item 11.
Item 11. Executive Compensation.
The Company’s principal executive officer and principal accounting officer is Michael W. Eller.
Information concerning the compensation of the Company’s principal executive officer and principal accounting officer, as well as any other compensated employees of the Registrant's whose total compensation exceeded $100,000 during 2020 and 2019 is provided in the following Summary Compensation Table (collectively, the “Named Executive Officers” or “NEOs”):
(1)Includes amounts paid under the Non-qualified Employee Profit Sharing Bonus.
(2)Amount represents the dollar amount recognized for financial statement reporting purposes.
(3)All Other Compensation consists of Group Health Insurance, Accrued Vacation Pay and Company paid 401(k) matching amounts.
The information specified concerning the stock options of the named executive officers during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020 is provided in the following Option/SAR Grants in the Last Fiscal Year Table:
(5)This table does not include Stock Options granted previously.
The information specified concerning the stock options of the named executive officers during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 is provided in the following Aggregated Option/SAR Exercises in Last Fiscal Year and Fiscal Year-End Options/SAR Values Table:
The Company does not currently have a Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”).
Compensation to outside directors is limited to reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses that are incurred in connection with the directors’ duties associated with the Company's business. The Board of Directors approved a stipend for members that are not employed by the company in the amount of $375 per quarter of service on the Board of Directors. There is currently no other compensation arrangements for the Company’s directors. (See “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” for Stock Options granted in previous years.) The information specified concerning items of Director Compensation for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 is provided in the following Director Compensation Table:
(1) Compensation information for Michael Eller, President and Principal Accounting Officer is contained in the Executive Compensation Summary Compensation Table.
(2) Amount represents the Director Stipend paid in 2020.
(3) Amount represents the dollar amount recognized for financial statement reporting purposes. Assumptions made in the valuation of stock option awards are disclosed in Note 7 of the Notes to the Financial Statements in this Form 10-K.
(4) Amounts represent reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses related to directors’ duties associated with the Company's business (ie. travel expenses for attending Company Director’s Meetings).
The Company currently does not hold any Employment Contracts or Change of Control Arrangements with any parties.
Option Exercises
During our fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, there were no options exercised by our executive officer or Directors.
Summary of Executive Employment Agreements
There are no executive employment agreements with any officer.
Item 12.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS
The following table sets forth, as of December 31, 2020, the amount and percentage of the Common Stock of the Company, which according to information supplied by the Company, is beneficially owned by each person who, to the best knowledge of the Company, is the beneficial owner (as defined below) of more than five (5%) of the outstanding common stock.
(1)Under Rule 13d-3, issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, a person is, in general, deemed to "Beneficially own" any shares if such person directly or indirectly, through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship or otherwise, has or shares (a) voting power, which includes the power to vote or to direct the voting of those shares and/or (b) investment power, which included the power to dispose, or to direct the disposition of those securities. The foregoing table gives effect to shares deemed beneficially owned under Rule 13d-3 based on the information supplied to the Company. To the knowledge of the Company, the persons named in the table have sole voting power and investment power with respect to all shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by them.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth, as of February 13, 2021, amount and percentage of the Common Stock of the Company, which according to information supplied by the Company, is beneficially owned by Management, including officers and directors of the Company.
(1)Includes 40,000 stock options issued 3/15/2020.
(2)Mr. Siecke does not own any shares directly. However, EDCO Partners LLLC, of which Mr. Siecke is a limited partner, holds 498,916 shares on his behalf.
On various dates, the Company's Board of Directors has approved Stock Option Bonuses for Directors and Employees. The following is a summary of the Stock Option bonuses currently outstanding: Options are exercisable at fixed prices. Options may not be exercised in blocks of less than 5,000 shares. Options not exercised expire five years after approval date or 30 days following termination of employment/board membership, whichever occurs first. In the event of acquisition, merger, recapitalization or similar events of the Company, the optionee will receive equivalent shares if one of the foregoing events occurs or will have a 10-day window in which to exercise the options. Option grants are not transferable or assignable except to the optionee's estate in the event of the optionee's death.
Recipients of Stock Options currently unexpired as of December 31, 2020 were as follows:
Stock options must be exercised within 90 days after termination of employment/board membership. On March 13, 2020, the Board of Directors canceled all 120,000 outstanding stock options that were granted on August 7, 2017 and were due to expire on August 6, 2020. In addition, the Board of Directors granted 180,000 options to employees. The new options have an exercise price of $0.40, a term of 5 years, and vested immediately. At December 31, 2020, there were 180,000 options outstanding and exercisable.
Changes in Control:
The Board of Directors is aware of no circumstances which may result in a change of control of the Company.
Certain Business Relationships:
There have been no unusual business relationships during the last fiscal year of the Registrant between the Company and affiliates as described in Item 404 (b) (1-6) of Regulation S-K.
Indebtedness of Management:
No Director or executive officer or nominee for Director, or any member of the immediate family of such has been indebted to the Company during the past year.
Item 13.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.
TRANSACTIONS WITH MANAGEMENT AND OTHERS
None.
Item 14.
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services.
AUDIT AND NON-AUDIT FEES
The following table presents fees billed to us during December 31, 2020 and 2019 for professional services provided by Assure CPA (formerly DeCoria Maichel & Teague).
(1) Audit fees consist of fees billed for professional services provided in connection with the audit of the Company’s financial statements and reviews of our quarterly financial statements.
(2) Audit-related fees consist of assurance and related services that include, but are not limited to, internal control reviews, attest services not required by statute or regulation and consultation concerning financial accounting and reporting standards.
(3) Tax fees consist of the aggregate fees billed for professional services for tax compliance, tax advice, and tax planning. These services include preparation of federal income tax returns.
(4) All other fees consist of fees billed for products and services other than the services reported above.
Our Audit Committee reviewed the audit and tax services rendered by Assure CPA (formerly DeCoria Maichel & Teague) and concluded that such services were compatible with maintaining the auditors’ independence. All audit, non-audit, tax services, and other services performed by our independent accountants are pre-approved by our Audit Committee to assure that such services do not impair the auditors’ independence from us. We do not use Assure CPA (formerly DeCoria Maichel & Teague)
for financial information system design and implementation. These services, which include designing or implementing a system that aggregates source data underlying the financial statements or generates information that is significant to our financial statements, are provided internally. We do not engage Assure CPA (formerly DeCoria Maichel & Teague) to provide compliance outsourcing services.
PART IV
Item 15.
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.
Documents filed as part of this report on Form 10-K or incorporated by reference:
(1)Our financial statements can be found in Item 8 of this report.
(2)Financial Statement Schedules (omitted because they are either not required, are not applicable, or the required information is disclosed in the notes to the financial statements or related notes).
The following exhibits are filed with this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Certain exhibits have been previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and are incorporated by reference.
**Incorporated by reference
SIGNATURES
In accordance with Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, the Registrant has caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
By: /s/ Michael W. Eller
Michael W. Eller, President
(Principal Executive Officer, Director)
Date: March 2, 2021
By: /s/ Michael W. Eller
Michael W. Eller, President
(Principal Accounting Officer)
Date: March 2, 2021
In accordance with the Exchange Act, this Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.