Item 1. Business
Company Overview
We were incorporated as “Alba Mineral Exploration, Inc.” on July 24, 2007, in the State of Delaware for the purpose of engaging in the exploration of mineral properties. On October 21, 2009, we entered into an exchange agreement (the “Exchange Agreement”) with Diamond Information Institute, whereby we acquired all of the issued and outstanding common stock of Diamond Information Institute, Inc. (“Diamond Information Institute”) and changed the name of the Company to Bergio International, Inc. (“we,” “us,” “our,” “Bergio,” or the “Company”).
It is our intention to establish Bergio as a holding company for the purpose of acquiring established jewelry design and manufacturing firms who possess branded product lines. Branded product lines are products and/or collections whereby the jewelry manufacturers have established their products within the industry through advertising in consumer and trade magazines as well as possibly obtaining federally registered trademarks of their products and collections. This is in line with our strategy and belief that a brand name can create an association with innovation, design and quality which helps add value to the individual products as well as facilitate the introduction of new products.
We intend to acquire design and manufacturing firms throughout the United States and Europe. We intend to locate potential candidates through our relationships in the industry. However, as of the date of this report, we do not have any binding agreements with any potential acquisition candidates.
It is also our intention to establish a chain of retail stores to further enhance the “Bergio” brand, and to take advantage of the higher margins at the retail level. The Company opened its first retail store in Bergen County, New Jersey in the fourth quarter of 2014.
Our future operations are contingent upon increasing revenues and raising capital for on-going operations and expansion of our product lines. Because we have a limited operating history, you may have difficulty evaluating our business and future prospects.
Principal Products and Services
Our products consist of a wide range of unique jewelry styles and designs made from precious metals such as gold, platinum and Karat gold, as well as other precious stones. We continuously innovate and change our designs based upon consumer trends. As a result of new designs being created we believe we are able to differentiate ourselves from our competition and strengthen our brands. We sell our products to our customers at price points that reflect the market price of the base material as well as design and processing fees.
We believe that we are a trendsetter in jewelry manufacturing. As a result, we come out with a variety of products throughout the year that we believe have commercial potential to meet what we feel are new trends within the industry. The “Bergio” designs consist of upscale jewelry that includes white diamonds, yellow diamonds, pearls, and colored stones, in 18K gold, platinum, and palladium. We currently design and produce approximately 100 to 150 product styles. Current retail prices for our products range from $400 to $200,000.
Our product range is divided into three fashion lines: (i) an 18K gold line, (ii) a bridal line, and (iii) a couture and/or one of kind pieces. Our Chief Executive Officer and director, Mr. Abajian, consults regularly with the design teams of his Italian manufacturers to design and create new products and product lines. Typically, new products come on line approximately every year and most recently, Bergio introduced its latest collection, Byzantine, Cestino, and Safari Collections, which launched in June 2010 and consists of approximately 35 pieces made with pink gold and diamonds. In 2011, we introduced two additional collections, Sistina and Rocca Collections. Depending on the timing and styling at any point in time, our products and collections would fall in one of the various categories shown below:
1.
Whimsical. The whimsical line includes charms, crosses and other “add-on” pieces.
2.
Fine. The proposed middle line will consist of fashion jewelry utilizing colored stones, diamonds and pearls applied to a variety of applications such as necklaces, pendants, earrings, bracelets and rings. The metals that we intend to use for the Middle line include platinum, 18K white & yellow gold.
3.
Couture. The Couture line is our most luxurious line, and consists of one-of-a-kind pieces, new showcase products each year, and predominantly utilizes diamonds, platinum and other precious metals and stones of the highest grade and quality available.
4.
Bridal. The Bridal line is our core business. We attempt to stay on the forefront of trends and designs in the bridal market with the latest in wedding sets, engagement rings and wedding bands for both men and women.
Each year, we attempt to expand and/or enhance these lines, while constantly seeking to identify trends that we believe exist in the market for new styles or types of merchandise. Design and innovation are the primary focus of our manufacturing and we are less concerned with the supply and capacity of raw materials. Mr. Abajian with his contacts, which are located mostly overseas, regularly meets to discuss, conceptualize and develop Bergio’s various products and collections. When necessary, additional suppliers and design teams can be brought in as needed. Management intends to maintain a diverse line of jewelry to mitigate concentration of sales and continuously expand our market reach.
Competition and Market Overview
The jewelry design and manufacture industry is extremely competitive and has low barriers to entry. We compete with other jewelry designers and manufacturers of upscale jewelry as well as retail jewelry stores. There are over 2,500 jewelry design and manufacture companies worldwide, several of which have greater experience, brand name recognition and financial resources than Bergio.
Our management believes that the jewelry industry competes in the global marketplace and therefore must be adaptable to remain competitive. Recently the U.S. economy has encountered a slowdown and Bergio anticipates the U.S. economy will most likely remain weak at least through the end of 2015. Consumer spending for discretionary goods such as jewelry is sensitive to changes in consumer confidence and ultimately consumer confidence is affected by general business considerations in the U.S. economy. Consumer discretionary spending generally declines during times of falling consumer confidence, which may affect the retail sale of our products. U.S. consumer confidence reflected these slowing conditions throughout 2014 and into 2015. The impact of the slowing U.S. economy is not usually known until the third quarter of any given year in our industry, thus it is hard to estimate the actual impact the slowing economy will have on our business.
We believe that a stronger economy, more spending by young professionals with an overall trend toward luxury products will lead to future growth. Therefore, we intend to make strong efforts to maintain our brand in the industry through our focus on the innovation and design of our products as well as being able to consolidate and increase cost efficiency when possible through acquisitions.
Marketing and Distribution
We have historically sold our products directly to distributors, retailers and other wholesalers, who then in turn sell their products to consumers through retail stores. Independent retail jewelers that offer the current Bergio line are not under formal contracts and most sell competing products as well.
We currently sell our jewelry to approximately 50 independent jewelry retailers across the United States, and have spent over $3 million in branding the Bergio name through tradeshows, trade advertising, national advertising and billboard advertising since launching the line in 1995. We also sell our products in Russia. Our products consist of a wide range of unique styles and designs made from precious metals such as, gold, platinum, and Karat gold, as well as diamonds and other precious stones We have manufacturing control over our line as a result of having a manufacturing facility in New Jersey, a contract manufacturer in Russia, as well as subcontracts with facilities in Italy.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company had no single customer that accounted for over 5% or more of our annual sales.
During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company had two customers, Funicelli (7.6%) and Sarkin Nourian (7.7%) accounting for over 5% or more of our annual sales.
Sales to customers in Russia represented 55.9% and 36.1% of total sales for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The Company has no other sales outside the U.S. As of October 1, 2014, the Company ceased operations in Russia due to the economic, currency and political condition in Russia. The Company intends to concentrate on its domestic operations and the duty free industry which industry approximates $60 billion worldwide.
All of our sales are generated from our customer base of 50 customers.
Sources and Availability of Raw Materials and Principal Suppliers
Most of the inventory and raw materials we purchase occurs through our manufacturers located in Europe and Russia. The inventory that we directly maintain is based on recent sales and revenues of our products but ultimately is at the discretion of Mr. Abajian, and his experience in the industry. Our inventories are commodities that can be incorporated into future products or can be sold on the open market. Additionally, we perform physical inventory inspections on a quarterly basis to assess upcoming styling needs and consider the current pricing in metals and stones needed for our products.
We acquire all raw gemstones, precious metals and other raw materials used for manufacturing our products on the open market. We are not constrained in our purchasing by any contracts with any suppliers and acquire raw material based upon, among other things, availability and price on the open wholesale market.
Product for U.S. consumption is now produced in our facility in Fairfield, New Jersey and 5% is contracted to our manufacturing supplier in Italy, who procures the raw materials in accordance with the specifications and designs submitted by Bergio. In Russia, our contract manufacturer procures all the materials. However, the general supply of precious metals and stones used by us can be reasonably forecast even though the prices will fluctuate. Any price differentials in the precious metals and stones will typically be passed on to the customer.
For the raw materials not procured by contracted manufacturers, we have approximately five suppliers that compete for our business, with our largest gold suppliers being ASD Casting Inc. Most of our precious stones are purchased from various diamond dealers. We do not have any formal agreements with any of our suppliers but have established an ongoing relationship with each of our suppliers.
Intellectual Property
Bergio is a federally registered trademarked name that we own. Since the first trademark of “Bergio” was filed, all advertising, marketing, trade shows and overall presentation of our product to the public has prominently displayed this trademark. As additional lines are designed and added to our products, we may trademark new names to distinguish particular products and jewelry lines.
Employees
As of March 24, 2015, we had 3 full-time employees and 3 part-time employees. Of our current employees, 1 is sales and marketing personnel, 2 are manufacturing and 3 hold administrative and executive positions. No personnel are covered by a collective bargaining agreement. We intend to use the services of independent consultants and contractors when possible or until we are able to hire internal personnel.
Environmental Regulation and Compliance
The United States environmental laws do not materially impact our manufacturing as we are using state of the art equipment that complies with all relevant environmental laws.
Approximately 5% of the Company’s manufacturing is contracted to quality suppliers in the vicinity of Valenza, Italy, with the remaining 95% of setting and finishing work being conducted in our Fairfield, New Jersey facility. The setting and finishing work done in our New Jersey facility involves the use of precision lasers, rather than using old soldering procedures which uses gas and oxygen to assemble different elements. Soap and water is used as a standard to clean the jewelry. Also, a standard polishing compound is used for the finishing work but it does not have a material impact on our cost and effect of compliance with environmental laws.
Government Regulation
Currently, we are subject to all of the government regulations that regulate businesses generally such as compliance with regulatory requirements of federal, state, and local agencies and authorities, including regulations concerning workplace safety, labor relations, and disadvantaged businesses. In addition, our operations are affected by federal and state laws relating to marketing practices in the retail jewelry industry. We are subject to the jurisdiction of federal, various state and other taxing authorities. From time to time, these taxing authorities review or audit our business.
Reports to Security Holders
We are subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act. Accordingly, we file annual, quarterly and other reports and information with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. You may read and copy these reports, statements, or other information we file at the SEC’s public reference room at 100 F. Street, N.E., Washington D.C. 20549. Our filings are also available to the public from commercial document retrieval services and the Internet worldwide website maintained by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov.
Item 1A.
Item 1A. Risk Factors.
Risks Related To Our Business and Industry
WE HAVE HAD LIMITED OPERATIONS, HAVE INCURRED LOSSES SINCE INCEPTION, HAVE SUFFICIENT CASH TO SUSTAIN OUR OPERATIONS FOR A PERIOD OF APPROXIMATELY ONE MONTH, AND WE NEED ADDITIONAL CAPITAL TO EXECUTE OUR BUSINESS PLAN.
For the year ended December 31, 2014, we incurred a net loss of $1,520,761 and used cash of $338,343 in operations. As of December 31, 2014, we have an accumulated deficit of $6,174,658. We will require additional funds through the receipt of conventional sources of capital or through future sales of our common stock, until such time as our revenues are sufficient to meet our cost structure, and ultimately achieve profitable operations. We currently have sufficient cash to sustain our operations for a period of approximately two months. Management estimates that it will need approximately $400,000 over the next twelve months to fund all of the Company’s current product development and marketing projects. There is no assurance we will be successful in raising additional capital or achieving profitable operations. Wherever possible, our board of directors will attempt to use non-cash consideration to satisfy obligations. In many instances, we believe that the non-cash consideration will consist of restricted and unrestricted shares of our common stock. These actions will result in dilution of the ownership interests of existing stockholders and may further dilute common stock book value, and that dilution may be material.
A DECLINE IN DISCRETIONARY CONSUMER SPENDING MAY ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR INDUSTRY, OUR OPERATIONS, AND ULTIMATELY OUR PROFITABILITY.
Luxury products, such as fine jewelry, are discretionary purchases for consumers. Any reduction in consumer discretionary spending or disposable income may affect the jewelry industry more significantly than other industries. Many economic factors outside of our control could affect consumer discretionary spending, including the financial markets, consumer credit availability, prevailing interest rates, energy costs, employment levels, salary levels, and tax rates. Any reduction in discretionary consumer spending could materially adversely affect our business and financial condition.
OUR OPERATING RESULTS MAY BE ADVERSELY IMPACTED BY WORLDWIDE POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTIES AND SPECIFIC CONDITIONS IN THE MARKETS WE ADDRESS.
In the recent past, general worldwide economic conditions have experienced a downturn due to slower economic activity, concerns about inflation, increased energy costs, decreased consumer confidence, reduced corporate profits and capital spending, and adverse business conditions. Any continuation or worsening of the current global economic and financial conditions could materially adversely affect (i) our ability to raise, or the cost of, needed capital, (ii) demand for our current and future products and (iii) our ability to commercialize products. We cannot predict the timing, strength, or duration of any economic slowdown or subsequent economic recovery, worldwide, or in the display industry.
BECAUSE WE ARE HIGHLY DEPENDENT ON OUR KEY EXECUTIVE OFFICER FOR THE SUCCESS OF OUR BUSINESS PLAN AND MAY BE DEPENDENT ON THE EFFORTS AND RELATIONSHIPS OF THE PRINCIPALS OF FUTURE ACQUISITIONS AND MERGERS, IF ANY OF THESE INDIVIDUALS BECOME UNABLE TO CONTINUE IN THEIR ROLE, OUR BUSINESS COULD BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED.
We believe our success will depend, to a significant extent, on the efforts and abilities of Berge Abajian, our Chief Executive Officer. If we lost Mr. Abajian, we would be forced to expend significant time and money in the pursuit of a replacement, which would result in both a delay in the implementation of our business plan and the diversion of limited working capital. We can give you no assurance that we could find a satisfactory replacement for Mr. Abajian at all, or on terms that are not unduly expensive or burdensome.
If we grow and implement our business plan, we will need to add managerial talent to support our business plan. There is no guarantee that we will be successful in adding such managerial talent. These professionals are regularly recruited by other companies and may choose to change companies. Given our relatively small size compared to some of our competitors, the performance of our business may be more adversely affected than our competitors would be if we lose well-performing employees and are unable to attract new ones.
BECAUSE WE INTEND TO ACQUIRE BUSINESSES AND SUCH ACTIVITY INVOLVES A NUMBER OF RISKS, OUR CORE BUSINESS MAY SUFFER.
We may consider acquisitions of assets or other business. Any acquisition involves a number of risks that could fail to meet our expectations and adversely affect our profitability. For example:
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The acquired assets or business may not achieve expected results;
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We may incur substantial, unanticipated costs, delays or other operational or financial problems when integrating the acquired assets;
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We may not be able to retain key personnel of an acquired business;
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Our management’s attention may be diverted; or
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Our management may not be able to manage the acquired assets or combined entity effectively or to make acquisitions and grow our business internally at the same time.
If these problems arise we may not realize the expected benefits of an acquisition.
BECAUSE THE JEWELRY INDUSTRY IN GENERAL IS AFFECTED BY FLUCTUATIONS IN THE PRICES OF PRECIOUS METALS AND PRECIOUS AND SEMI-PRECIOUS STONES, WE COULD EXPERIENCE INCREASED OPERATING COSTS THAT WILL AFFECT OUR BOTTOM LINE.
The availability and prices of gold, diamonds, and other precious metals and precious and semi-precious stones may be influenced by cartels, political instability in exporting countries and inflation. Shortages of these materials or sharp changes in their prices could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition. A significant change in prices of key commodities, including gold, could adversely affect our business or reduce operating margins and impact consumer demand if retail prices increased significantly, even though we historically incorporate any increases in the purchase of raw materials to our consumers. Additionally, a significant disruption in our supply of gold or other commodities could decrease the production and shipping levels of our products, which may materially increase our operating costs and ultimately affect our profit margins.
BECAUSE WE DEPEND ON OUR ABILITY TO IDENTIFY AND RESPOND TO FASHION TRENDS, IF WE MISJUDGE THESE TRENDS, OUR ABILITY TO MAINTAIN AND GAIN MARKET SHARE WILL BE EFFECTED.
The jewelry industry is subject to rapidly changing fashion trends and shifting consumer demands. Accordingly, our success may depend on the priority that our target customers place on fashion and our ability to anticipate, identify, and capitalize upon emerging fashion trends. If we misjudge fashion trends or are unable to adjust our products in a timely manner, our net sales may decline or fail to meet expectations and any excess inventory may be sold at lower prices.
OUR ABILITY TO MAINTAIN OR INCREASE OUR REVENUES COULD BE HARMED IF WE ARE UNABLE TO STRENGTHEN AND MAINTAIN OUR BRAND IMAGE.
We have spent significant amounts of time and money in branding our Bergio and Bergio Bridal lines. We believe that primary factors in determining customer buying decisions, especially in the jewelry industry, are determined by price, confidence in the merchandise and quality associated with a brand. The ability to differentiate products from competitors of the Company has been a factor in attracting consumers. However, if the Company’s ability to promote its brand fails to garner brand recognition, its ability to generate revenues may suffer. If the Company fails to differentiate its products, its ability to sell its products wholesale will be adversely affected. These factors could result in lower selling prices and sales volumes, which could adversely affect its financial condition and results of operations.
IF WE WERE TO EXPERIENCE SUBSTANTIAL DEFAULTS BY OUR CUSTOMERS ON ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE, THIS COULD HAVE A MATERIAL ADVERSE EFFECT ON OUR LIQUIDITY AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
As of December 31, 2014, approximately $125,000 of our working capital consists of accounts receivable from customers. If customers responsible for a large amount of accounts receivable were to become insolvent or otherwise unable to pay for our products, or to make payments in a timely manner, our liquidity and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. An economic or industry downturn could materially affect the ability to collect these accounts receivable, which could then result in longer payment cycles, increased collections costs and defaults in excess of management’s expectations. A significant deterioration in the ability to collect on accounts receivable could affect our cash flow and working capital position.
WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO INCREASE SALES OR OTHERWISE SUCCESSFULLY OPERATE OUR BUSINESS, WHICH COULD HAVE A SIGNIFICANT NEGATIVE IMPACT ON OUR FINANCIAL CONDITION.
We believe that the key to our success is to increase our revenues and available cash. We may not have the resources required to promote our business and its potential benefits. If we are unable to gain market acceptance of our business, we will not be able to generate enough revenue to achieve and maintain profitability or to continue our operations.
We may not be able to increase our sales or effectively operate our business. To the extent we are unable to achieve sales growth, we may continue to incur losses. We may not be successful or make progress in the growth and operation of our business. Our current and future expense levels are based on operating plans and estimates of future sales and revenues and are subject to increase as strategies are implemented. Even if our sales grow, we may be unable to adjust spending in a timely manner to compensate for any unexpected revenue shortfall.
Further, if we substantially increase our operating expenses to increase sales and marketing, and such expenses are not subsequently followed by increased revenues, our operating performance and results would be adversely affected and, if sustained, could have a material adverse effect on our business. To the extent we implement cost reduction efforts to align our costs with revenue, our sales could be adversely affected.
WE MAY BE UNABLE TO MANAGE GROWTH, WHICH MAY IMPACT OUR POTENTIAL PROFITABILITY.
Successful implementation of our business strategy requires us to manage our growth. Growth could place an increasing strain on our management and financial resources. To manage growth effectively, we will need to:
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Establish definitive business strategies, goals and objectives;
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Maintain a system of management controls; and
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Attract and retain qualified personnel, as well as, develop, train and manage management-level and other employees.
If we fail to manage our growth effectively, our business, financial condition or operating results could be materially harmed, and our stock price may decline.
Risks Related to Our Common Stock
OUR COMMON STOCK IS CURRENTLY QUOTED ON THE OTC MARKETS, WHICH MAY HAVE AN UNFAVORABLE IMPACT ON OUR STOCK PRICE AND LIQUIDITY.
Our common stock is quoted on the OTCQB. The quotation of our shares on the OTCQB may result in a less liquid market available for existing and potential stockholders to trade shares of our common stock, could depress the trading price of our common stock and could have a long-term adverse impact on our ability to raise capital in the future.
THERE IS LIMITED LIQUIDITY ON THE OTCQB, WHICH ENCHANCES THE VOLATILE NATURE OF OUR EQUITY.
When fewer shares of a security are being traded on the OTCQB, volatility of prices may increase and price movement may outpace the ability to deliver accurate quote information. Due to lower trading volumes in shares of our common stock, there may be a lower likelihood that orders for shares of our common stock will be executed, and current prices may differ significantly from the price that was quoted at the time of entry of the order.
OUR COMMON STOCK IS CONSIDERED A “PENNY STOCK,” AND IS SUBJECT TO ADDITIONAL SALE AND TRADING REGULATIONS THAT MAY MAKE IT MORE DIFFICULT TO SELL.
Our common stock is considered to be a “penny stock” since it does not qualify for one of the exemptions from the definition of “penny stock” under Section 3a51-1 of the Exchange Act. Our common stock is a “penny stock” because it meets one or more of the following conditions (i) the stock trades at a price less than $5.00 per share; (ii) it is not traded on a “recognized” national exchange; (iii) it is not quoted on the Nasdaq Stock Market, or even if so, has a price less than $5.00 per share; or (iv) is issued by a company that has been in business less than three years with net tangible assets less than $5 million.
The principal result or effect of being designated a “penny stock” is that securities broker-dealers participating in sales of our common stock will be subject to the “penny stock” regulations set forth in Rules 15-2 through 15g-9 promulgated under the Exchange Act. For example, Rule 15g-2 requires broker-dealers dealing in penny stocks to provide potential investors with a document disclosing the risks of penny stocks and to obtain a manually signed and dated written receipt of the document at least two business days before effecting any transaction in a penny stock for the investor’s account. Moreover, Rule 15g-9 requires broker-dealers in penny stocks to approve the account of any investor for transactions in such stocks before selling any penny stock to that investor. This procedure requires the broker-dealer to (i) obtain from the investor information concerning his or her financial situation, investment experience and investment objectives; (ii) reasonably determine, based on that information, that transactions in penny stocks are suitable for the investor and that the investor has sufficient knowledge and experience as to be reasonably capable of evaluating the risks of penny stock transactions; (iii) provide the investor with a written statement setting forth the basis on which the broker-dealer made the determination in (ii) above; and (iv) receive a signed and dated copy of such statement from the investor, confirming that it accurately reflects the investor's financial situation, investment experience and investment objectives. Compliance with these requirements may make it more difficult and time consuming for holders of our common stock to resell their shares to third parties or to otherwise dispose of them in the market or otherwise.
OUR CURRENT CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND SOLE DIRECTOR, MR. BERGE ABAJIAN, CONTROLS A SIGNIFICANT PERCENTAGE OF OUR CAPITAL STOCK AND HAS SUFFICIENT VOTING POWER TO CONTROL THE VOTE ON SUBSTANTIALLY ALL CORPORATE MATTERS.
Berge Abajian, our chief executive officer and sole director, controls a significant percentage of our capital stock. Accordingly, Mr. Abajian will be able to determine the composition of our board of directors, will retain the effective voting power to approve all matters requiring shareholder approval, will prevail in matters requiring shareholder approval, including, in particular the election and removal of directors, and will continue to have significant influence over our business. As a result of his ownership and position in the Company, Mr. Abajian is able to influence all matters requiring shareholder action, including significant corporate transactions.
TRADING OF OUR STOCK MAY BE RESTRICTED BY THE U.S. SECURITIES & EXCHANGE COMMISSION’S PENNY STOCK REGULATIONS, WHICH MAY LIMIT A STOCKHOLDER’S ABILITY TO BUY AND SELL OUR STOCK.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has adopted regulations which generally define “penny stock” to be any equity security that has a market price (as defined) less than $5.00 per share or an exercise price of less than $5.00 per share, subject to certain exceptions. Our securities are covered by the penny stock rules, which impose additional sales practice requirements on broker-dealers who sell to persons other than established customers and “accredited investors”. The term “accredited investor” refers generally to institutions with assets in excess of $5,000,000 or individuals with a net worth in excess of $1,000,000 or annual income exceeding $200,000 or $300,000 jointly with their spouse. The penny stock rules require a broker-dealer, prior to a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from the rules, to deliver a standardized risk disclosure document in a form prepared by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which provides information about penny stocks and the nature and level of risks in the penny stock market. The broker-dealer also must provide the customer with current bid and offer quotations for the penny stock, the compensation of the broker-dealer and its salesperson in the transaction and monthly account statements showing the market value of each penny stock held in the customer’s account. The bid and offer quotations, and the broker-dealer and salesperson compensation information, must be given to the customer orally or in writing prior to effecting the transaction and must be given to the customer in writing before or with the customer’s confirmation. In addition, the penny stock rules require that prior to a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from these rules, the broker-dealer must make a special written determination that the penny stock is a suitable investment for the purchaser and receive the purchaser’s written agreement to the transaction. These disclosure requirements may have the effect of reducing the level of trading activity in the secondary market for the stock that is subject to these penny stock rules. Consequently, these penny stock rules may affect the ability of broker-dealers to trade our securities. We believe that the penny stock rules discourage investor interest in and limit the marketability of our common stock.
WE CURRENTLY HAVE A LIMITED ACCOUNTING STAFF, AND IF WE FAIL TO DEVELOP OR MAINTAIN AN EFFECTIVE SYSTEM OF INTERNAL CONTROLS, WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO REPORT OUR FINANCIAL RESULTS TIMELY AND ACCURATELY OR PREVENT FRAUD, WHICH WOULD LIKELY HAVE A NEGATIVE IMPACT ON THE MARKET PRICE OF OUR COMMON UNITS.
We are subject to the public reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”). Effective internal controls are necessary for us to provide reliable and timely financial reports, prevent fraud and to operate successfully as a publicly traded partnership. We prepare our consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP, but our internal accounting controls may not meet all standards applicable to companies with publicly traded securities. Our efforts to develop and maintain our internal controls may not be successful, and we may be unable to maintain effective controls over our financial processes and reporting in the future or to comply with our obligations under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, which we refer to as Section 404. For example, Section 404 requires us, among other things, to annually review and report on, and our independent registered public accounting firm to attest to, the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting. Based on management’s evaluation, as of December 31, 2014, our management concluded that we had several material weaknesses related to our internal controls over financial reporting (See Item 9A).
THE MARKET PRICE FOR OUR COMMON SHARES IS PARTICULARLY VOLATILE GIVEN OUR STATUS AS A RELATIVELY UNKNOWN COMPANY WITH A SMALL AND THINLY TRADED PUBLIC FLOAT, LIMITED OPERATING HISTORY AND LACK OF PROFITS WHICH COULD LEAD TO WIDE FLUCTUATIONS IN OUR SHARE PRICE. YOU MAY BE UNABLE TO SELL YOUR COMMON SHARES AT OR ABOVE YOUR PURCHASE PRICE, WHICH MAY RESULT IN SUBSTANTIAL LOSSES TO YOU.
The market for our common shares is characterized by significant price volatility when compared to the shares of larger, more established companies that trade on a national securities exchange and have large public floats, and we expect that our share price will continue to be more volatile than the shares of such larger, more established companies for the indefinite future. The volatility in our share price is attributable to a number of factors. First, as noted above, our common shares are, compared to the shares of such larger, more established companies, sporadically and thinly traded. As a consequence of this limited liquidity, the trading of relatively small quantities of shares by our shareholders may disproportionately influence the price of those shares in either direction. The price for our shares could, for example, decline precipitously in the event that a large number of our common shares are sold on the market without commensurate demand. Secondly, we are a speculative or “risky” investment due to our limited operating history and lack of profits to date, and uncertainty of future market acceptance for our potential products. As a consequence of this enhanced risk, more risk-adverse investors may, under the fear of losing all or most of their investment in the event of negative news or lack of progress, be more inclined to sell their shares on the market more quickly and at greater discounts than would be the case with the stock of a larger, more established company that trades on a national securities exchange and has a large public float. Many of these factors are beyond our control and may decrease the market price of our common shares, regardless of our operating performance. We cannot make any predictions or projections as to what the prevailing market price for our common shares will be at any time, including as to whether our common shares will sustain their current market prices, or as to what effect that the sale of shares or the availability of common shares for sale at any time will have on the prevailing market price.
WE WILL INCUR INCREASED COSTS AS A RESULT OF BEING A PUBLIC COMPANY, WHICH COULD AFFECT OUR PROFITABILITY AND OPERATING RESULTS.
We voluntarily file annual, quarterly and current reports with the SEC. In addition, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (“Sarbanes-Oxley”) and the rules subsequently implemented by the SEC and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board have imposed various requirements on public companies, including requiring changes in corporate governance practices. We expect these rules and regulations to increase our legal and financial compliance costs and to make some activities of ours more time-consuming and costly. We expect to spend between $50,000 and $100,000 in legal and accounting expenses annually to comply with our SEC reporting obligations and Sarbanes-Oxley. These costs could affect profitability and our results of operations.
WE HAVE NOT PAID DIVIDENDS IN THE PAST AND DO NOT EXPECT TO PAY DIVIDENDS FOR THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE. ANY RETURN ON INVESTMENT MAY BE LIMITED TO THE VALUE OF OUR COMMON STOCK.
No cash dividends have been paid on the Company’s common stock. We expect that any income received from operations will be devoted to our future operations and growth. The Company does not expect to pay cash dividends in the near future. Payment of dividends would depend upon our profitability at the time, cash available for those dividends, and other factors as the Company’s board of directors may consider relevant. If the Company does not pay dividends, the Company’s common stock may be less valuable because a return on an investor’s investment will only occur if the Company’s stock price appreciates.
Item 1B.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.
Not applicable.
Item 2.
Item 2. Properties.
Currently, we lease a 1,730 square feet design and manufacturing facility located in Fairfield, New Jersey. The lease expired in August 31, 2010, and is being renewed on a month-to-month basis. We also rent office space at this facility. We pay approximately $1,100 per month. Our Fairfield, New Jersey facility is presently adequate for the performance of all company functions, which includes manufacturing, design and administrative needs.
We also lease a 1,000 square foot retail store in Closter, NJ. The initial term of the lease is for five years commencing May 1, 2014. The Company has the option extend its lease for five additional years upon giving 90 days notice. The five-year option is available up to 20 years. Rent payments are $1,200 a month for the first two years, $1,275 for the third and fourth year, and $1,350 for the fifth year. If the Company renews ist option for the second five years, the rent will begin at $1,415 and saclate to $1,665 in the fifth year. If the option is exercised for the third five-year term, rent will begin at $1,800 per month and escalate to $2,280 in the fifth year. The rent for the last five years, if the Company exercises its option, will be at the fair market value. The Company is also responsible for its proportionate share of common charges.
Additionally, we anticipate opening additional offices and/or design facilities in other locations as we continue to implement our business plan throughout the United States, when and if any acquisitions are completed in the future. At the current time, our expansion plans are in the preliminary stages with no formal negotiations being conducted. Most likely no expansions will take place until additional revenues can be achieved or additional capital can be raised to help offset the costs associated with any expansion.
Item 3.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings.
We are currently not involved in any litigation that we believe could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. There is no action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation before or by any court, public board, government agency, self-regulatory organization or body pending or, to the knowledge of the executive officers of our company or any of our subsidiaries, threatened against or affecting our company, our common stock, any of our subsidiaries or of our companies or our subsidiaries’ officers or directors in their capacities as such, in which an adverse decision could have a material adverse effect.
Item 4.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.
Not applicable.
PART II
Item 5.
Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity
Securities.
a) Market Information
The Company’s Common Stock is listed on the OTC Markets and trades under the symbol BRGO.
The following table sets forth the range of the high and low bid quotations of the common stock for the past two years in the over-the-counter market, as reported by the OTC Markets. The quotations reflect inter-dealer prices without retail mark-up, mark-down or commission, and may not represent actual transactions.
b) Holders
As of December 31, 2014, the Company has 38 holders of its common Stock. This figure does not take into account those shareholders whose certificates are held in the name of broker-dealers or other nominees.
c) Dividends
We have not declared or paid any dividends on our common stock and intend to retain any future earnings to fund development and growth of our business. Therefore, we do not anticipate paying dividends on our common stock for the foreseeable future. There are no restrictions on our present ability to pay dividends to stockholders of our common stock, other than those prescribed by law.
d) Securities Authorized fir Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans
As of December 31, 2014, we had an incentive stock and award plan under which 200,000 shares had been reserved for issuance. The following table shows information with respect this plan as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014:
Note: Only restricted shares of common stock were issued pursuant to this plan.
Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
During the year ended December 31, 2014, we have issued the following securities which were not registered under the Securities Act and not previously disclosed in the Company’s Quarterly Reports on From 10-Q or Current Reports on Form 8-K. Unless otherwise indicated, all of the share issuances described below were made in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act for transactions not involving a public offering:
1)
On January 15, 2014 issued 110,951 shares of common stock to Fife. for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $16,617.
2)
On January 24, 2014 issued 86,422 shares of common stock to Fife for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $14,087.
3)
On January 24, 2014 issued 145,000 shares of common stock to Asher Enterprises, Inc. for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $20,300.
4)
On February 4, 2014 issued 107,000 shares of common stock to Asher Enterprises, Inc. for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $12,840.
5) On February 5, 2014 issued 156,667 shares of common stock to Asher Enterprises, Inc for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $18,800.
6)
On February 7, 2014 issued 114,500 shares of common stock to Fife for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $16,030.
7) On February 14, 2014 issued 95,833 shares of common stock to Asher Enterprises, Inc for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $11,500.
8)
On February 21, 2014 issued 200,00 shares of common stock to Asher Enterprises, Inc for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $24,000.
9)
On February 26, 2014 issued 100,000 shares of common stock to Auctus Private Equity Fund, LLC for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $14,000.
10)
On February 26, 2014 issued 50,000 shares of common stock to Auctus Private Equity Fund, LLC for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $8,750.
11)
On February 26, 2014 sold 125,000 shares of common stock with warrants to Caesar Capital Group for $50,000.
l2)
On February 27, 2014 issued 103,500 shares to Asher Enterprises, Inc for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $15,560.
13)
On February 28, 2014 sold 125,000 shares of common stock with warrants to ARRG for $50,000.
14)
On February 28, 2014 issued 102,701 shares of common stock to Fife for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $14,738.
15)
On March 12, 2014 issued 60,919 shares of common stock to Proteus Capital for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $39,280.
16)
On March 12, 2014 issued 156,396 shares of common stock to Proteus Capital for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $18,768.
17)
On March 12, 2014 issued 80,000 shares of common stock to TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP Fife for financial services. The shares were valued at $56,000.
18)
On March 13, 2014 issued 42,034 shares of common stock to Fife for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $18,069.
19)
On March 26, 2014 issued 181,279 shares of common stock to Typenex for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $49,320.
20)
On April 10, 2014 issued 85,000 shares of common stock to TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP Fife for financial services. The shares were valued at $51,000.
21)
On April 22, 2014 issued 53,571 shares of common stock to Auctus Private Equity Fund, LLC for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $15,000.
22)
On April 18 2014 issued 125,000 shares of common stock to LucoskyBrookman for conversion legal services. The shares were valued at $50,000.
23)
On May 15, 2014 issued 69,939 shares of common stock to Auctus Private Equity Fund, LLC for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $14,687.
24)
On May 22, 2014 issued 147,622 shares of common stock to Fife for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $31,001.
25)
On June 18, 2014 issued 100,000 shares of common stock to TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP for financial services. The shares were valued at $30,000.
26)
On June 23, 2014 issued 217,918 shares of common stock to Typenex Fife for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $29,419.
27)
On July 24, 2014 issued 294,118 shares of common stock to Typenex Fife for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $20,000.
28)
On August 4, 2014 issued 100,000 shares of common stock to TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP for financial services. The shares were valued at $18,750.
29)
On August 7, 2014 issued 161,900 shares of common stock to Fife. for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $11,333.
30)
On October 23, 2014 issued 575,000 shares of common stock to Typenex for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $5,499.
31)
On November 13, 2014 issued 550,000 shares of common stock to Fife for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $5,454.
32)
On December 2, 2014 issued 350,000 shares of common stock to LucoslyBrookman for conversion of accounts payable in the amount of $2,246.
Rule 10B-18 Transactions
During the year ended December 31, 2014, there were no repurchases of the Company’s common stock by the Company.
Item 6.
Item 6. Selected Financial Data.
The Company is a smaller reporting company as defined in Item 10 (f) of Regulation S-K and therefore is not required to provide the information under this item.
Item 7.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Forward Looking Statements
This report and other reports filed by our Company from time to time with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (collectively the “Filings”) contain or may contain forward-looking statements and information that are based upon beliefs of, and information currently available to, our management as well as estimates and assumptions made by our management. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. When used in the filings, the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “future,” “intend,” “plan,” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions as they relate to us or our management identify forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect our current view with respect to future events and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors, including those set forth in the Risk Factors on page 7. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should the underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may differ significantly from those anticipated, believed, estimated, expected, intended, or planned.
Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements. Except, as required by applicable law, including the securities laws of the United States, we do not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements to conform these statements to actual results.
Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). These accounting principles require us to make certain estimates, judgments and assumptions. We believe that the estimates, judgments and assumptions upon which we rely are reasonable based upon information available to us at the time that these estimates, judgments and assumptions are made. These estimates, judgments and assumptions can affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements as well as the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the periods presented. Our financial statements would be affected to the extent there are material differences between these estimates and actual results. In many cases, the accounting treatment of a particular transaction is specifically dictated by GAAP and does not require management’s judgment in its application. There are also areas in which management’s judgment in selecting any available alternative would not produce a materially different result. The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this report.
General
Management’s discussion and analysis of results of operations and financial condition is intended to assist the reader in the understanding and assessment of significant changes and trends related to the results of operations and financial position of the Company together with its subsidiary. This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying financial notes, and with the Critical Accounting Policies noted below.
Plan of Operation
We concentrate our business on boutique, upscale jewelry stores. We currently sell our jewelry to approximately 50 independent jewelry retailers across the United States. We have spent over $3 million in branding the Bergio name through tradeshows, trade advertising, national advertising and billboard advertising since launching the line in 1995. As of October 1, 2014, the Company ceased operations in Russia due to the economic, currency and political condition in Russia. The Company intends to concentrate on its domestic operations and the duty free industry, which approximates $60 billion worldwide.
Our products consist of a wide range of unique styles and designs made from precious metals such as, gold, platinum, and Karat gold, as well as diamonds and other precious stones. We currently design and produce approximately 100 to 150 product styles. Current retail prices for our products range from $400 to $200,000. We have manufacturing control over our line as a result of having a manufacturing facility in New Jersey as well as subcontracts with facilities located in Italy.
It is our intention to establish Bergio as a holding company for the purpose of acquiring established jewelry design and manufacturing firms who possess branded product lines. Branded product lines are products and/or collections whereby the jewelry manufacturers have established their products within the industry through advertising in consumer and trade magazines as well as possibly obtaining federally registered trademarks of their products and collections. This is in line with our strategy and belief that a brand name can create an association with innovation, design and quality which helps add value to the individual products as well as facilitate the introduction of new products.
We intend to acquire design and manufacturing firms throughout the United States and Europe. We intend to locate potential candidates through our relationships in the industry. However, as of the date of this report, we do not have any binding agreements with any potential acquisition candidates.
Results of Operations 2014 Compared to 2013
Sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2014 decreased $931,956 (46.6%) to $1,067,540 as compared to $1,999,496 for the year ended December 31, 2013. The decline in sales is attributed to current economic conditions, which has especially hindered growth in the jewelry industry. Sales to customers in Russia represented 55.9% and 36.1% of total sales for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Sales in Russia also substantially declined. As of October 1, 2014, the Company ceased operations in Russia due to the economic, currency and political condition in Russia. The Company intends to concentrate on its domestic operations, and the duty free industry, which approximates $60 billion worldwide..
Typically, revenues experience significant seasonal volatility in the jewelry industry. The first two quarters of any given year typically represent approximately 25%-35% of total year revenues, based on historic results. The holiday buying season during the last two quarters of every year typically account for the remainder of annual sales. This year there has been a general slowdown in the market.
Gross Profit
Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2014 decreased $559,777 (79.2%) to $147,181 as compared to $706.958 for the year ended December 31, 2013. The decrease in gross profit is primarily due to the lower volume.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Total selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $87,562 (6.1%) to $1,337,902 as compared to $1,425,464 for the year ended December 31, 2013. This decrease is as a result of lower bad debt and advertising and marketing expenses offset by increased professional fees.
Loss from Operations
As a result of the above, the Company recorded a loss from operations of $1,190,721 for the year ended December 31, 2014 as compared to $718,506 for the year ended December 31, 2013.
Other Expense
For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company had other expense of $330,040 as compared to $117,233 for the year ended December 31, 2013. The increase in other expense was mostly attributed to the increase in interest expense and lower gains on the extinguishment of derivatives partially offset by the lower amortization of debt
Net Loss
As a result of the above, for the year ended December 31, 2014, we incurred a net loss of $1,520,761 as compared to a net loss of $835,740 for the year ended December 31, 2013.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The following table summarizes working capital at December 31, 2014, compared to December 31, 2013.
Over the next twelve months we believe that our existing capital combined with available borrowing from the agreement with Illiad, our bank line of credit and anticipated cash flow from operations will be sufficient to sustain our current operations. Additionally, our major stockholder has agreed to continue, from time to time as needed, to advance funds under similar terms as his current advances. It is anticipated that we will need to sell additional equity and/or debt securities in the event we locate potential mergers and/or acquisitions.
Our working capital decreased $1,169,231. This decrease is primarily attributed lower accounts receivable and the increase in convertible debt..
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company had a net increase in cash of $3,259. The Company’s principal sources and uses of funds were as follows:
Cash provided by (used in) operating activities. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company used $338,343 in cash for operations as compared to $450,511 in cash for the year ended December 31, 2013. This decrease in cash used in operations is primarily attributed to the increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities offset mostly by the higher operating loss and lower change in inventories.
Cash used in investing activities. Net cash used in investing activities was $352,595 for the year ended December 31, 2014 as compared to $33,125 for the year ended December 31, 2013 due to an increase in purchases of molds used in the manufacturing process.
Cash provided by financing activities. Net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $694,197 as compared to $430,933 for the year ended December 31, 2013. Tthis increase was primarily the result of the increase in proceeds from bank lines of credit and from the sale of common stock as well as lower repayments of notes payable and payments to a stockholder.
Our indebtedness is comprised of various bank credit lines, convertible debt, advances from a stockholder/officer and credit cards intended to provide capital for the ongoing manufacturing of our jewelry line, in advance of receipt of the payment from our retail distributors.
Bank Lines of Credit
We currently have a $175,000 bank line of credit agreement with Columbia Bank. Interest is at the bank’s prime rate plus 1.75% with a minimum rate of 5.75%. The line is collateralized by our assets as well as a personal guarantee by our Chief Executive Officer, Berge Abajian. As of December 31, 2014, the outstanding balance due to Columbia Bank was $170,000.
We have a number of various unsecured credit card obligations. These obligations require minimal monthly payments of interest and principal and as of December 30, 2014, have interest rates ranging from 3.99% to 15.90%. As of December 31, 2014, we have outstanding balances related to these obligations of $103,132.
Convertible Debt
The Company enters into certain financing agreements for convertible debt. For the most part, the Company settles these obligations with the Company’s common stock. During 2014, the Company received $414,703 in financing from these arrangements. As of December 31, 2014, the Company had outstanding convertible debt in the amount of $445,569, net of debt discount in the amount of $58,002.
Satisfaction of Our Cash Obligations for the Next 12 Months
A critical component of our operating plan impacting our continued existence is to efficiently manage the production of our jewelry lines and successfully develop new lines through our Company or through possible acquisitions and/or mergers. Our ability to obtain capital through additional equity and/or debt financing, and joint venture partnerships will also be important to our expansion plans. In the event we experience any significant problems assimilating acquired assets into our operations or cannot obtain the necessary capital to pursue our strategic plan, we may have to reduce the growth of our operations. This may materially impact our ability to increase revenue and continue our growth.
Over the next twelve months we believe that our existing capital combined with cash flow from operations and advances from our major stockholder will be sufficient to sustain our current operations. However, in the event we locate potential acquisitions and/or mergers we will most likely need to obtain additional funding through the sale of equity and/or debt securities. There can be no assurance that if additional funding is required we will be able to secure it on terms that are favorable to us or at all.
Research and Development
We are not anticipating significant research and development expenditures in the near future.
Expected Purchase or Sale of Plant and Significant Equipment
We do not anticipate the purchase or sale of any plant or significant equipment; as such items are not required by us at this time.
Significant Changes in the Number of Employees
We currently have three full-time employees and three part-time employees. Of our current employees, one is in sales and marketing, two are manufacturing and three hold administrative and executive positions. None of our employees are subject to any collective bargaining agreements. We do not anticipate a significant change in the number of full time employees over the next 12 months.
Critical Accounting Policies
The Company prepares its financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In preparing the financial statements and accounting for the underlying transactions and balances, the Company applies its accounting policies as disclosed in Note 2 of our Notes to Financial Statements. The Company’s accounting policies that require a higher degree of judgment and complexity used in the preparation of financial statements include:
Revenue Recognition - the Company’s management recognizes revenue when realized or realizable and earned. In connection with revenue, the Company established a sales return and allowance reserve for anticipated merchandise to be returned based on historical operations. The Company’s sole revenue producing activity as a manufacturer and distributor of upscale jewelry is affected by movement in fashion trends and customer desire for new designs, varying economic conditions affecting consumer spending and changing product demand by retailers affecting their desired inventory levels. Realizing that this may, and in some periods has, resulted in a significant amount of sales returns, management revised the Company policy of accepting merchandise returns. Whereas under prior policy customers had up to 360 days to return merchandise and were allowed credits as offsets to their outstanding accounts receivable, under the current return policy merchandise, with limited exceptions, cannot be returned.
Accounts receivable - the Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and adjusts credit limits based on customer payment and current credit worthiness, as determined by review of their current credit information. The Company continuously monitors credits and payments from its customers and maintains provision for estimated credit losses based on its historical experience and any specific customer issues that have been identified. While such credit losses have historically been within our expectation and the provision established, the Company cannot guarantee that it will continue to receive positive results. Management has provided an allowance for doubtful accounts of approximately $73,804 at December 31, 2014 and $305,980 at December 31, 2013.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments - The Company follows guidance issued by the FASB on “Fair Value Measurements” for assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis. This guidance establishes a common definition for fair value to be applied to existing generally accepted accounting principles that require the use of fair value measurements, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosure about such fair value measurements.
The FASB defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Additionally, the FASB requires the use of valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs.
These inputs are prioritized below:
·
Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
·
Level 2: Observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.
·
Level 3: Unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data, which require the use of the reporting entity’s own assumptions.
The Company discloses the estimated fair value for all financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate fair value. As of December 31, 2014, the fair value of short-term financial instruments including accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses, approximates book value due to their short-term maturity. The fair value of property and equipment is estimated to approximate its net book value. The fair value of debt obligations, other than convertible debt obligations, approximates their face values due to their short-term maturities and/or the variable rates of interest associated with the underlying obligations.
Income taxes - deferred tax assets arise from a variety of sources, the most significant being: a) tax losses that can be carried forward to be utilized against profits in future years; b) expenses recognized in the books but disallowed in the tax return until the associated cash flow occurs; and c) valuation changes of assets which need to be tax effected for book purposes but are deductible only when the valuation change is realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using enacted tax rates and laws that are expected to be in effect when such differences are expected to reverse. The measurement of deferred tax assets is reduced, if necessary, by a valuation allowance for any tax benefit which is not more likely than not to be realized. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, future taxable income is estimated, considering the realization of tax loss carryforwards. Valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets can also be affected by changes to tax laws, changes to statutory tax rates and future taxable income levels. In the event it was determined that the Company would not be able to realize all or a portion of its deferred tax assets in the future, the Company would reduce such amounts through a charge to income in the period in which that determination is made. Conversely, if it were determined that it would be able to realize the deferred tax assets in the future in excess of the net carrying amounts, Tel would decrease the recorded valuation allowance through an increase to income in the period in which that determination is made. In its evaluation of a valuation allowance, the Company takes into account existing contracts and backlog, and the probability that options under these contract awards will be exercised as well as sales of existing products. The Company prepares profit projections based on the revenue and expenses forecast to determine that such revenues will produce sufficient taxable income to realize the deferred tax assets.
Off Balance Sheet Arrangements
The Company is not party to any off-balance sheet arrangements that may affect its financial position or its results of operations.
New Accounting Pronouncements
No recently issued accounting pronouncements had or are expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Item 7A.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
We do not engage in any hedging activities.
Item 8.
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and
Stockholders of Bergio International, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Bergio International, Inc. as of December 31, 2014 and the related consolidated statement of operations, stockholders’ equity (deficit), and cash flows for the year then ended. Bergio International, Inc.’s management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. The company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, 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. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Bergio International, Inc. as of December 31, 2014, the results of their operations, and their cash flows, for the year ended December 31, 2014, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
/s/ KLJ & Associates, LLP
KLJ & Associates, LLP
St. Louis Park, MN
April 14, 2015
Silberstein Ungar, PLLC CPAs and Business Advisors
Phone (248) 203-0080
Fax (248) 281-0940
30600 Telegraph Road, Suite 2175
Bingham Farms, MI 48025-4586
www.sucpas.com
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors of
Bergio International, Inc.
Fairfield, New Jersey
We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Bergio International, Inc. (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2013, and the related statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, 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. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Bergio International, Inc. as of December 31, 2013, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
/s/ Silberstein Ungar, PLLC
Silberstein Ungar, PLLC
Bingham Farms, Michigan
April 8, 2014
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Operations
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity
As of December 31, 2014
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Business, Organization, and Liquidity
Business and Organization
Bergio International, Inc. (the “Company”) was incorporated in the State of Delaware on July 24, 2007 under the name Alba Mineral Exploration, Inc. On October 21, 2009, as a result of a Share Exchange Agreement, the corporate name was changed to Bergio International, Inc. Effective July 15, 2013, the Company amended its Certificate of Incorporation to change the Company’s authorized capital from 1,500,000,000 common shares to 3,000,000,000 common shares of stock. On April 3, 2014, Bergio International, Inc. (the “Company”) filed a Certificate of Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation (the “Amendment”) with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware to reduce the par value of all shares of common stock and preferred stock from $0.001 to $0.00001 per share. On February 26, 2014, the Company filed a certificate of amendment to its Certificate of Incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware to increase the number of authorized shares of capital stock of the Company to 6,000,000,000 shares. Effective on October 14, 2014, Bergio International, Inc. filed a Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation to effectuate a 1-for-1,000 reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock. All share and per share data has been adjusted to reflect such stock splits and change in par value. The Company is engaged in the product design, manufacturing, distribution of fine jewelry primarily in the United States and is headquartered in Fairfield, New Jersey. The Company experiences significant seasonal volatility. The first two quarters of the year typically represent 15% - 35% of annual sales, and the remaining two quarters represent the remaining portion of annual sales.
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Principles of Consolidation:
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, and include the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary. All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Use of Estimates:
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires that management make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Risks and Uncertainties:
The Company’s operations are subject to a number of risks, including but not limited to changes in the general economy, demand for the Company’s products, and the success of its customers.
Revenue Recognition:
Revenues are recognized at the time of shipment with the price to the buyer being fixed and determinable and collectability assured, provided title and risk of loss is transferred to the customer. Provisions, when appropriate, are made where the right to return exists.
Shipping and handling costs charged to customers are classified as sales, and the shipping and handling costs incurred are included in cost of sales.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Financial Consolidated Statements (continued)
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Fair Value of Financial Instruments:
The Company estimates that the fair value of all financial instruments at December 31, 2014 and, 2013, as defined in Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC 825 “Financial Instruments”, does not differ materially, except for the items discussed below, from the aggregate carrying values of its financial instruments recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The estimated fair value amounts have been determined by the Company using available market information and appropriate valuation methodologies. Considerable judgment is required in interpreting market data to develop the estimates of fair value.
The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 for cash, accounts receivable, inventories and accounts payable and loans payable approximate the fair value because of the immediate or short-term maturity of these financial instruments. Each reporting period we evaluate market conditions including available interest rates, credit spreads relative to our credit rating and liquidity in estimating the fair value of our debt. After considering such market conditions, we estimate that the fair value of debt approximates its carrying value.
Accounting for Income Taxes:
The Company accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability method described in FASB ASC 740, “Income Taxes”. Deferred tax assets arise from a variety of sources, the most significant being: a) tax losses that can be carried forward to be utilized against profits in future years; b) expenses recognized for financial reporting purposes but disallowed in the tax return until the associated cash flow occurs; and c) valuation changes of assets which need to be tax effected for book purposes but are deductible only when the valuation change is realized.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using enacted tax rates and laws that are expected to be in effect when such differences are expected to reverse. The measurement of deferred tax assets is reduced, if necessary, by a valuation allowance for any tax benefit which is not more likely than not to be realized. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, future taxable income is estimated, considering the realization of tax loss carryforwards. Valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets can also be affected by changes to tax laws, changes to statutory tax rates and future taxable income levels. In the event it was determined that the Company would not be able to realize all or a portion of our deferred tax assets in the future, we would reduce such amounts through a charge to income in the period in which that determination is made. Conversely, if we were to determine that we would be able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future in excess of the net carrying amounts, we would decrease the recorded valuation allowance through an increase to income in the period in which that determination is made.
Income Tax Uncertainties:
The Company accounts for uncertainties in income taxes under ASC 740-10-50 which prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. ASC 740-10 requires that the Company determine whether the benefits of its tax positions are more-likely-than-not of being sustained upon audit based on the technical merits of the tax position. The Company recognizes the impact of an uncertain income tax position taken on its income tax return at the largest amount that is more-likely-than-not to be sustained upon audit by the relevant taxing authority. The implementation of ASC 740-10 had no impact on the Company’s results of operations or financial position.
Despite the Company’s belief that its tax return positions are consistent with applicable tax laws, one or more positions may be challenged by taxing authorities. Settlement of any challenge can result in no change, a complete disallowance, or some partial adjustment reached through negotiations or litigation.
Interest and penalties related to income tax matters, if applicable, will be recognized as income tax expense. During the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company did not incur any expense related to interest or penalties for income tax matters, and no such amounts were accrued as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
Cash equivalents are comprised of certain highly liquid instruments with a maturity of three months or less when purchased. The Company did not have any cash equivalents on hand at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Accounts Receivable:
Accounts receivable are generated from sales of fine jewelry to retail outlets throughout the United States. At December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, accounts receivable were substantially comprised of balances due from retailers and from the Russian manufacturer of the jewelry that we sell to our customers in Russia. As of December 31, 2014, the Company ceased operations in Russia, and accounts receivable is comprised of balances from U.S. Customers only.
The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and adjusts credit limits based on customer payment and current credit worthiness, as determined by review of their current credit information. The Company continuously monitors credit limits for and payments from its customers and maintains provision for estimated credit losses based on its historical experience and any specific customer issues that have been identified. While such credit losses have historically been within the Company’s expectation and the provision established, the Company cannot guarantee that this will continue.
An allowance for doubtful accounts is provided against accounts receivable for amounts management believes may be uncollectible. The Company determines the adequacy of this allowance by regularly reviewing the composition of its accounts receivable aging and evaluating individual customer receivables, considering the customer’s financial condition, credit history and current economic circumstance. The Company historically has been able to collect the accounts receivable balance during a period of nine months to a year. While credit losses have historically been within the Company’s expectation and the provision established, the Company cannot guarantee that this will continue. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the allowance for doubtful accounts was $73,804 and $305,980, respectively.
Concentrations of Credit Risk:
Cash Held in Banks: The Company maintains cash balances at a financial institution that is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) up to federally insured limits. At times balances may exceed FDIC insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts.
Accounts Receivable: The Company’s customer base is primarily comprised of balances due from retailers. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable is limited due to the wide variety of customers and markets into which the Company’s services are provided, as well as their dispersion across many different geographical areas. The Company has been expanding its brand into retail stores, and opened its first retail store in the fourth quarter of 2014. These sales come with a lower degree of credit risk as these sales are made by cash or credit card. As is characteristic of the Company’s business and of the jewelry industry generally, the Company extends its customers seasonal credit terms. The carrying amount of receivables approximates fair value. The Company routinely assesses the financial strength of its customers and believes its credit risk exposure on accounts receivable is limited. Based on management’s review of accounts receivable, an allowance for doubtful accounts is recorded, if appropriate. The Company does not require collateral to support these financial instruments.
Inventories:
Inventories consist primarily of finished goods, and are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the weighted average method, and average cost is recomputed after each inventory purchase or sale. Inventories are written down if the estimated net realizable value is less than the recorded value, if appropriate. The Company reviews the carrying cost of inventories by product to determine the adequacy of reserves for obsolescence. In accounting for inventories, the Company must make estimates regarding the estimated realizable value of inventory. The estimate is based, in part, on the Company’s forecasts of future sales and age of inventory.
Property and Equipment:
Equipment is stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Depreciation and amortization are provided on a straight-line basis over periods ranging from 5 to 10 years.
Leasehold improvements are amortized over the term of the lease or the useful life of the asset, whichever is shorter.
Maintenance, repairs, and renewals that do not materially add to the value of the equipment nor appreciably prolong its life are charged to expense as incurred.
When assets are retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and the resulting gain or loss is included in the Statement of Operations.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Long-Lived Assets:
The Company assesses the recoverability of the carrying value of its long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to future, undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by an asset. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell. No impairment losses have been recognized for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliates:
The Company owns less than 20% or otherwise does not exercise significant influence, are stated at cost. At December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company had an investment in which the Company owned less than 1% interest in an unconsolidated affiliate and therefore the investment is carried at cost.
Deferred Financing Costs:
Certain costs associated with financing activities related to the issuance of equity securities are deferred. These costs consist primarily of legal, banking and other professional fees related to the transactions. Deferred financing costs are amortized over the life of the related debt.
Equity-Based Compensation:
The Company accounts for equity based compensation transactions with employees under the provisions of ASC Topic No. 718, “Compensation: Stock Compensation” (“Topic No. 718”). Topic No. 718 requires the recognition of the fair value of equity-based compensation in net income. The fair value of common stock issued for compensation is measured at the market price on the date of grant. The fair value of the Company’s equity instruments, other than common stocks, is estimated using a Black-Scholes option valuation model. This model requires the input of highly subjective assumptions and elections including expected stock price volatility and the estimated life of each award. In addition, the calculation of equity-based compensation costs requires that the Company estimate the number of awards that will be forfeited during the vesting period. The fair value of equity-based awards granted to employees is amortized over the vesting period of the award and the Company elected to use the straight-line method for awards granted after the adoption of Topic No. 718.
The Company accounts for equity based transactions with non-employees under the provisions of ASC Topic No. 505-50, “Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees” (“Topic No. 505-50”). Topic No. 505-50 establishes that equity-based payment transactions with non-employees shall be measured at the fair value of the consideration received or the fair value of the equity instruments issued, whichever is more reliably measurable. The fair value of common stock issued for payments to non-employees is measured at the market price on the date of grant. The fair value of equity instruments, other than common stock, is estimated using the Black-Scholes option valuation model. In general, the Company recognizes an asset or expense in the same manner as if it was to pay cash for the goods or services instead of paying with or using the equity instrument.
Advertising and Promotional Costs:
Advertising and promotional costs are expensed as incurred and are recorded as part of Selling, General and Administrative Expenses in the Statement of Operations. The total cost for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, was approximately $186,277 and $231,284, respectively.
Net (Loss) Income per Common Share:
Basic net (loss) income per share attributable to common stockholders is computed by dividing net (loss) income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted income per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period, including common stock equivalents, such as stock options and warrants using the treasury stock method. Diluted loss per share is computed by dividing net loss by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period and excludes the anti-dilutive effects of common stock equivalents.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
New Accounting Pronouncements:
No recently issued accounting pronouncements had or are expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.
Subsequent Events:
The Company evaluated subsequent events, which are events or transactions that occurred after December 31, 2014 through the issuance of the accompanying financial statements.
Note 3. Basic and Diluted Income (Loss) Per Share
Net loss per share has been computed according to FASB ASC 260, “Earnings per Share,” which requires a dual presentation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share (“EPS”). Basic EPS represents net loss divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during a reporting period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities, including warrants and options, were converted into common stock. The dilutive effect of outstanding warrants, options, and/or conversions is reflected in earnings per share by use of the treasury stock method. In applying the treasury stock method for stock-based compensation arrangements, the assumed proceeds are computed as the sum of the amount the employee must pay upon exercise. For the years ended December 31. 2014 and 2013, basic net loss per share equaled the diluted loss per share, since the effect of shares potentially issuable upon exercise or conversion was anti-dilutive. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, 8,045,137 and 501,299 shares, respectively, issuable upon the conversion of convertible debt were not included in the computation of diluted net loss because their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.
Note 4. Property and Equipment
Property and equipment consists of the following:
Depreciation and amortization expense related to the assets above for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 was $32,219 and $18,836, respectively.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
Note 5. Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities consist of the following:
Accrued salaries and wages include amounts due to an officer of the Company in the amounts of $130,391 and $50,000 for the periods ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Note 6. Related Party
Advances from Stockholder and Accrued Interest
The Company receives periodic advances from its principal stockholder based upon the Company’s cash flow needs. At December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, $224,124 and $153,550, respectively, was due to the shareholder, including accrued interest. Interest expense is accrued at an average annual market rate of interest which was 3.15% at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. Interest expense due to shareholder was $6,764 and $5,531 for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Accrued interest was $49,658 and $42,895 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. No terms for repayment have been established. As a result, the amount is classified as a Current Liability.
Employment Agreement
Effective February 28, 2010, the Company entered into an employment agreement with its CEO. The agreement, which is for a five year term, provides for an initial base salary of $175,000 per year with a 3% annual increase thereafter (the “Base Salary”). The CEO is also entitled to certain bonuses based on net profits before taxes and other customary benefits, as defined in the agreement. In addition, since it is understood that the Company is employing the CEO during a time of economic decline throughout the U.S. and at times and from time to time, the Company may not be in a position to pay the full amount of Base Salary owed the CEO it is understood and agreed to by the Board, that as long as the Company is unable to pay the CEO the full amount of his Base Salary that the Board shall issue to him, from time to time, an amount of shares that will allow him to remain in possession of fifty-one percent (51%) of the Company’s then outstanding shares of common stock. Such issuances shall be made to the CEO at any time when his total share holdings are reduced to an amount less than fifty-one percent (51%) as a result of issuance of shares of common stock made on behalf of the Company. The CEO waived the 3% annual increase for 2011.
Effective September 1, 2011, the Company and CEO entered into an Amended and Restated Employment Agreement (the “Amended Agreement”) which primarily retains the term and compensation of the original agreement. The Amended Agreement, however, removes the section which previously provided for the issuance of Company common stock to the CEO, from time to time, when the Company is unable to pay the CEO the full amount of his Base Salary (as defined in the Amended Agreement) which would allow the CEO to maintain a fifty-one percent (51%) share of the Company’s outstanding common stock. However, the CEO does have the right to request all or a portion of his unpaid Base Salary be paid with the Company’s restricted common stock. In addition, the Amended Agreement provides for the issuance of 51 shares of newly authorized Series A Preferred Stock to be issued to the CEO. As defined in the Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of the Series A Preferred Stock, each share of Series A Preferred Stock has voting rights such that the holder of 51 shares of Series A Preferred Stock will effectively maintain majority voting control of the Company. Effective November 3, 2011, the CEO notified the Company that for the one year period, retroactive from April 1, 2011, through December 31, 2012, he would reduce his Base Salary to $100,000. The reduction in base compensation was subsequently extended to December 31, 2013. The CEO is currently deferring a portion of his salary to conserve cash. Deferred wages due to the CEO amounted to $130,391 and $50,000 for the periods ended December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
Note 7. Bank Lines of Credit
A summary of the Company’s credit facilities is as follows:
The Company’s CEO and majority shareholder also serves as a guarantor of the Company’s debt.
Note 8. Convertible Debt
Asher
On July 9, 2013, the Company issued an 8% convertible note (the “July 9 Note”) in the amount of $68,750 to Asher Enterprises, Inc. (“Asher”). The principal and accrued interest is payable on February 1, 2014, or such earlier date as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible by Asher at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 60% of the average of the three lowest trading prices of the stock during the ten day trading period ending one day prior to the date of conversion During the year ended December 31, 2013, the total principal amount of $68,750 was converted into 148,280,155 shares of common stock.
On July 1, 2013, the Company issued an 8% convertible note in the amount of $100,000 to Asher Enterprises, Inc. (“Asher”). The principal and accrued interest is payable on March 26, 2014, or such earlier date as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible by Asher at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 60% of the average of the three lowest trading prices of the stock during the ten day trading period ending one day prior to the date of conversion. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the total principal amount of $100,000 and accrued interest was converted into 808,000 shares of common stock. The outstanding balances at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 were $-0- and $100,000, respectively, with accrued interest of $4,011 at December 31, 2013.
On April 22, 2013, the Company issued an 8% convertible note (the “April 22 Note”) in the amount of $42,500 to Asher. The principal and accrued interest is payable on January 25, 2014, or such earlier date as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible by Asher at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 60% of the average of the three lowest trading prices of the stock during the ten day trading period ending one day prior to the date of conversion. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the total principal amount of $42,500 and accrued interest of $1,700 was converted into 263,421,053 shares of common stock.
On March 4, 2013, the Company issued an 8% convertible note (the “March 4 Note”) in the amount of $53,000 to Asher. The principal and accrued interest is payable on December 6, 2013, or such earlier date as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible by Asher at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 60% of the average of the three lowest trading prices of the stock during the ten day trading period ending one day prior to the date of conversion. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the total principal amount of $53,000 and accrued interest of $2,120 was converted into 231,000,000 shares of common stock.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
Note 8. Convertible Debt (continued)
Asher (continued)
On September 7, 2012, the Company issued an 8% convertible note (the “September 7 Note”) in the amount of $32,500 to Asher. The principal and accrued interest is payable on June 11, 2013, or such earlier date as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible by Asher at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 60% of the average of the three lowest trading prices of the stock during the ten day trading period ending one day prior to the date of conversion. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the total principal amount of $32,500 and accrued interest of $1,300 was converted into 96,288,083 shares of common stock.
On August 6, 2012, the Company issued an 8% convertible note (the “August 6 Note”) in the amount of $37,500 to Asher. The principal and accrued interest is payable on May 8, 2013, or such earlier date as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible by Asher at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 60% of the average of the three lowest trading prices of the stock during the ten day trading period ending one day prior to the date of conversion. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the total principal of $37,500 and $1,500 of accrued interest was converted into 71,410,256 shares of common stock.
On July 10, 2012, the Company issued an 8% convertible note (the “July 10 Note”) in the amount of $32,500 to Asher. The principal and accrued interest is payable on April 12, 2013, or such earlier date as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible by Asher at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 60% of the average of the three lowest trading prices of the stock during the ten day trading period ending one day prior to the date of conversion. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the principal of $32,500 and $1,300 of accrued interest was converted into 56,661,616 shares of common stock
On June 7, 2012, the Company issued an 8% convertible note (the “June 7 Note”) in the amount of $37,500 to Asher. The principal and accrued interest is payable on March 11, 2013, or such earlier date as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible by Asher at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 60% of the average of the three lowest trading prices of the stock during the ten day trading period ending one day prior to the date of conversion. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the principal amount of $36,000 was converted into 36,060,606 shares of common stock. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the remaining principal of $10,500 and $1,500 of accrued interest was converted into 18,750,000 shares of common stock.
Asher is entitled to have all shares issued upon conversion of the above notes listed upon each national securities exchange or other automated quotation system, if any, upon which shares of the Company’s common stock are then listed.
Hanover Group, LLC
On July 25, 2012, the Company issued a 12% convertible note (the “July 25 Note #12”) in the amount of $26,000 to Hanover Holdings I, LLC (“Hanover”). The principal and accrued interest is payable on or before July 25, 2013. The note is convertible by Ha.nover at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 60% of the average of the stock price for the three days prior to the date of conversion. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the total principal of $26,000 and accrued interest of $1,746 was converted into 62,626,472 shares of common stock.
On August 29, 2012, the Company issued a 12% convertible note (the “August 29 Note”) in the amount of $9,000 to Hanover. The principal and accrued interest is payable on or before August 29, 2013. The note is convertible by Hanover at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 60% of the average of the stock price for the three days prior to the date of conversion. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the principal of $9,000 and $540 of accrued interest was converted into 26,500,000 shares of common stock.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
Note 8. Convertible Debt (continued)
Panache Capital, LLC/WHC Capital, LLC
On November 7, 2012, the Company issued a 10% convertible note (the “November 7 Note”) in the amount of $31,982 to Panache Capital, LLC (“Panache”) in exchange for the account payable. The principal and accrued interest is payable on or before October 24, 2013. The note is convertible by Panache at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 40% of the average of the three lowest stock prices for the ten days prior to the date of conversion. During the year ended December 31, 2012, $31,702 of principal was converted into 30,558,000 shares of common stock. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the remaining principal of $280 and $182 of accrued interest was converted into 721,266 shares of common stock.
On November 6, 2012, the Company issued a 10% convertible note (the “November 6 Note”) in the amount of $13,000 to Panache. The principal and accrued interest is payable on or before October 24, 2013. The note is convertible by Panache at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 40% of the average of the three lowest stock prices for the ten days prior to the date of conversion. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the total principal of $13,000 was converted into 8,031,059 shares of common stock.
JSJ
On October 3, 2012, the Company issued a 10% convertible note (the “October 3 Note”) in the amount of $30,000 to JSJ Investment, Inc. (“JSJ”) The principal and accrued interest is payable on or before October 3, 2013. The note is convertible by JSJ at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 65% of the average of the three lowest days during the ten day trading period prior to the date of conversion. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the total principal of $30,000 was converted into 46,758,910 shares of common stock.
Auctus Private Equity Fund, LLC
On August 19, 2013, the Company issued an 8% convertible note (the “August 19 Note”) in the amount of $50,000 to Auctus Private Equity Fund, LLC (“Auctus”). The principal and accrued interest is payable on or before May 19, 2014. The note is convertible by Auctus at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 62.5% of the average of the two days during the ten day trading period prior to the date of conversion. During the year ended December 31, 2014, principal of $50,000 and accrued interest of $2,437 was converted into 273,510 shares of common stock. The outstanding balances at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 were $-0- and $50,000, respectively, with accrued interest of $1,458 at December 31, 2013.
In October 5, 2012, the Company issued an 8% convertible note (the “October 5 Note”) in the amount of $36,750 to Auctus. The principal and accrued interest is payable on or before July 5, 2013. The note is convertible by Auctus at any time after the six month anniversary of the issue date and by the Company at any time after issue with conversion periods as defined in the agreement. The note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of 62.5% of the average of the two days during the ten day trading period prior to the date of conversion. During year ended December 31, 2013, principal of $36,750 was converted into 68,483,520 shares of common stock.
Fife/Typenex
In December 2012, the Company entered into a $325,000 convertible note (the “December 12, 2012 Note #21”) consisting of three tranches to be drawn down with the first tranche totaling $125,000, including $25,000 in loan costs and an additional two tranches totaling $200,000. The note bears a 5% annual interest rate and matures eighteen months from the issuance. The note is convertible into common shares of the Company based on 70% of the average of the 3 lowest closing prices of the common stock for the proceeding 15 consecutive trading days immediately prior to the conversion. During 2013, the conversion price was fixed at $0.005 per share. As of December 31, 2012, the Company drew down the first tranche totaling $125,000. On February 11, 2013, April 5, 2013, April 23, 2013, and July 1, 2013, the Company drew down an additional $250,000. During the year ended December 31, 2013, principal of $237,518 and accrued interest was converted into 786,866 shares of common stock. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company drewdown an additional $314,703. During the year ended December 31, 2014, principal of $104,235 and accrued interest of $36,335 was converted into 2,533,411 shares of common stock. The outstanding balances at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 were $340,287 and $129,819, respectively, with accrued interest of $1966 and $14,033 at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
Note 8. Convertible Debt (continued)
Fife/Typenex (continued)
On June 5, 2014, the Company, Fife, Typenex and Iliad Research and Trading, LLP (“Iliad”) entered into an Assignment and Assumption Agreement and Note Purchase Agreement (the “Note Purchase Agreement”) whereby Iliad acquired all of Fife and Typenex’s right, title, obligations and interest in, to and arising under the Company Notes (as defined in the Note Purchase Agreement) and the Note Purchase Documents (as defined in the Note Purchase Agreement).
On October 17, 2014, the Company entered into a financing arrangement with Illiad to provide additional financing in the amount of up to $450,000 through the issuance of a Secured Convertible Promissory Note (“Note”). The Company agreed to cover the Lender’s legal, accounting and other related fees in the amount of $5,000, which is included in the principal balance of the Note. The Note will accrue interest at the rate of 8% per annum until the Note is paid in full. Monies are to be drawn in 8 tranches with the initial Tranche in the amount of $105,000, and the remaining balance of $350,000 in 7 tranches of $50,000 each. The Company drewdown the initial tranche on October 17, 2014. The Note has a maturity date of July 17, 2016.
Beginning six months after October 17, 2014 and on the same day each month thereafter, the Company shall make an installment payment, based upon the unpaid balance. Payments may be made in cash or by converting the installment amount into shares of the Company’s Common Stock. The conversion price is the lesser of $0.0005 per share and 67.5% of the average of the three lowest closing bid prices in the 15 trading days immediately preceding the conversion. The Company has the right to prepay the Note at 135% of the outstanding balance at the time of prepayment.
Lucosky Brookman
In November 2014, the Company converted a portion of its outstanding accounts payable for legal services to Lucosky Brookman into two convertible promissory notes in the aggregate amount of $63,275. These are demand notes and accrue interest at the rate of 10% on the outstanding balance. The notes are convertible into common shares of the Company based on 65% of the average ten trading days closing bid price during the preceding 10 consecutive trading days immediately prior to the conversion. There were no conversions during the year ended December 31, 2014. The outstanding balance at December 31, 2014 was $63,275 and accrued interest was $650.
Note 9. Derivative Liability
The Company accounts for the fair value of the conversion features of its convertible debt in accordance with ASC Topic No. 815-15 “Derivatives and Hedging; Embedded Derivatives” (“Topic No. 815-15”). Topic No. 815-15 requires the Company to bifurcate and separately account for the conversion features as an embedded derivative contained in the Company’s convertible debt. The Company is required to carry the embedded derivative on its balance sheet at fair value and account for any unrealized change in fair value as a component of results of operations. The Company values the embedded derivatives using the Black-Scholes pricing model. Amortization of debt discount amounted to $113,649 for the year ended December 31, 2014 as compared to $470,502 for the year ended December 31, 2013. The derivative liability is revalued each reporting period using the Black-Scholes model. Convertible debt as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 was $503,571 and $279,818, respectively, and are shown net of debt discount in the amounts of $58,002 and $108,375, respectively. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the derivative liability was $140,307 and $57,882, respectively.
The Black-Scholes model utilized the following inputs to value the derivative liability at the date of issuance of the convertible note and at December 31, 2014:
Stock Price - The Stock Price was based on the average closing price of the Company’s stock as of the Valuation Date. Stock Prices were $0.034 at November 24, 2014, the date of issuance and $0.0179 at December 31, 2014.
Variable Conversion Prices - The conversion price was based on 65% of the average closing price of the Company’s common stock for the previous 10 trading days prior to the conversion date or $.0186 at November 24, 2014 and $.0079 at December 31, 2014.
Time to Maturity - The time to maturity was determined based on the length of time between the Valuation Date and the maturity of the debt. Time to maturity was 12 months for the outstanding derivative.
Risk Free Rate - The risk free rate was based on the Treasury Note rate as of the Valuation Dates with a term commensurate with the remaining term of the debt. The risk free rate at November 24, 2014 was 14% and 0.25% at December 31, 2014 based on one year.
Volatility - The volatility was based on the historical volatility of three comparable companies as historical volatility of the Company was not useful in developing the expected volatility due to the limited trading history of its stock. The average volatility was 393% at November 24, 2014 and 412% at December 31, 2014.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
Note 10. Stockholders’ Equity
The Company is authorized to issue 6,000,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.00001 per share and 51 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.00001 per share. At December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, there were 7,398,736 and 2,431,169 common shares issued and outstanding, respectively. On April 3, 2014, Bergio International, Inc. (the “Company”) filed a Certificate of Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation (the “Amendment”) with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware to reduce the par value of all shares of common stock and preferred stock from $0.001 to $0.00001 per share. On February 26, 2014, the Company filed a certificate of amendment to its Certificate of Incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware to increase the number of authorized shares of capital stock of the Company to 6,000,000,000 shares. Effective on October 14, 2014, Bergio International, Inc. filed a Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation to effectuate a 1-for-1,000 reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock. All share and per share data has been adjusted to reflect such stock splits and change in par value. Effective September 1, 2011, the Company authorized and issued 51 shares of Series A Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 to its CEO . In April 2014, the Company changed its par value on its preferred stock from $0.001 to $0.00001. The Series A Preferred Stock pays no dividends and has no conversion rights. Each share of Series A Preferred Stock has voting rights such that the holder of 51 shares of Series A Preferred Stock will effectively maintain majority voting control of the Company.
For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company issued the following shares of common stock:
1)
On January 15, 2014 issued 110,951 shares of common stock to Fife. for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $16,617.
2)
On January 24, 2014 issued 86,422 shares of common stock to Fife for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $14,087.
3)
On January 24, 2014 issued 145,000 shares of common stock to Asher Enterprises, Inc. for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $20,300.
4)
On February 4, 2014 issued 107,000 shares of common stock to Asher Enterprises, Inc. for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $12,840.
5) On February 5, 2014 issued 156,667 shares of common stock to Asher Enterprises, Inc for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $18,800.
6)
On February 7, 2014 issued 114,500 shares of common stock to Fife for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $16,030.
7) On February 14, 2014 issued 95,833 shares of common stock to Asher Enterprises, Inc for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $11,500.
8)
On February 21, 2014 issued 200,00 shares of common stock to Asher Enterprises, Inc for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $24,000.
9)
On February 26, 2014 issued 100,000 shares of common stock to Auctus Private Equity Fund, LLC for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $14,000.
10)
On February 26, 2014 issued 50,000 shares of common stock to Auctus Private Equity Fund, LLC for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $8,750.
11)
On February 26, 2014 sold 125,000 shares of common stock with warrants to Caesar Capital Group for $50,000.
l2)
On February 27, 2014 issued 103,500 shares to Asher Enterprises, Inc for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $15,560.
13)
On February 28, 2014 sold 125,000 shares of common stock with warrants to ARRG for $50,000.
14)
On February 28,2014 issued 102,701 shares of common stock to Fife for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $14,738.
15)
On March 12, 2014 issued 60,919 shares of common stock to Proteus Capital for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $39,280.
16)
On March 12, 2014 issued 156,396 shares of common stock to Proteus Capital for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $18,768.
17)
On March 12, 2014 issued 80,000 shares of common stock to TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP Fife for financial services. The shares were valued at $56,000.
18)
On March 13, 2014 issued 42,034 shares of common stock to Fife for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $18,069.
19)
On March 26, 2014 issued 181,279 shares of common stock to Typenex for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $49,320.
20)
On April 10, 2014 issued 85,000 shares of common stock to TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP Fife for financial services. The shares were valued at $51,000.
21)
On April 22, 2014 issued 53,571 shares of common stock to Auctus Private Equity Fund, LLC for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $15,000.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
Note 10. Stockholders’ Equity (continued)
22)
On April 18 2014 issued 125,000 shares of common stock to LucoskyBrookman for conversion legal services. The shares were valued at $50,000.
23)
On May 15, 2014 issued 69,939 shares of common stock to Auctus Private Equity Fund, LLC for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $14,687.
24)
On May 22, 2014 issued 147,622 shares of common stock to Fife for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $31,001.
25)
On June 18, 2014 issued 100,000 shares of common stock to TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP for financial services. The shares were valued at $30,000.
26)
On June 23, 2014 issued 217,918 shares of common stock to Typenex Fife for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $29,419.
27)
On July 24, 2014 issued 294,118 shares of common stock to Typenex Fife for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $20,000.
28)
On August 4, 2014 issued 100,000 shares of common stock to TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP for financial services. The shares were valued at $18,750.
29)
On August 7, 2014 issued 161,900 shares of common stock to Fife. for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $11,333.
30)
On October 23, 2014 issued 575,000 shares of common stock to Typenex for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $5,499.
31)
On November 13, 2014 issued 550,000 shares of common stock to Fife for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $5,454.
32)
On December 2, 2014 issued 350,000 shares of common stock to LucoslyBrookman for conversion of accounts payable in the amount of $2,246.
For the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company issued the following shares of common stock:
1)
885,811,163 shares of common stock to Asher for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $286,670.
2)
68,483,520 shares of common stock to Auctus for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $26,510.
3)
704,327,513 shares of common stock to Fife for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $225,282.
4)
89,126,472 shares of common stock to Hanover for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $37,286.
5)
46,758,910 shares of common stock to JSJ for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $30,000.
6)
721,266 shares of common stock to Panache for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $462.
7)
82,538,629 shares of common stock to Proteus Capital for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $39,280.
8)
147,150,196 shares of common stock to TCA Global for conversion of its convertible debt and accrued interest. The shares were valued at $182,290.
9)
8,031,059 shares of common stock to WHC Capital, LLC (“WHC Capital”) for conversion of its convertible debt. The shares were valued at $13,000.
10)
33,000,000 shares of common stock for legal fees:. These shares were valued at $63,016.
11)
3,250,000 shares of common stock for financial services. These shares were valued at $3,900.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Note 11. Income Taxes
The components of the Company’s deferred taxes at December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
The recognized deferred tax asset is based upon the expected utilization of its benefit from future taxable income. At December 31, 2014, the Company had approximately $2,862,000 of federal net operating tax loss carryforwards expiring at various dates through 2033. The Tax Reform Act of 1986 enacted a complex set of rules which limits a company's ability to utilize net operating loss carryforwards and tax credit carryforwards in periods following an ownership change. These rules define an ownership change as a greater than 50 percent point change in stock ownership within a defined testing period which is generally a three-year period. As a result of stock which may be issued by us from time to time and the conversion of warrants, options or the result of other changes in ownership of our outstanding stock, the Company may experience an ownership change and consequently our utilization of net operating loss carryforwards could be significantly limited.
Based upon the net losses historically incurred and, the prospective global economic conditions, management believes that it is not more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will be realized and has provided a valuation allowance of 100% of the deferred tax asset.
A reconciliation of the income tax (benefit) provision at the statutory Federal tax rate of 34% to the income tax (benefit) provision recognized in the financial statements is as follows:
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Note 12. Commitments
The Company leases certain office and manufacturing facilities and equipment. The Company’s office and manufacturing facilities are currently leased on a month to month basis at $1,100 per month.
The Company also leases retail space for its store in Closter, NJ for approximately $1,500 per month.
In addition, the Company has agreements to lease equipment for use in the operations of the business under operating leases.
The following is a schedule of approximate future minimum rental payments for operating leases subsequent to the year ended December 31, 2014.
Rent expense for the Company's operating leases for year ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 amounted to approximately $21,735 and $13,200, respectively.
Note 13. Litigation
The Company is currently not involved in any litigation that it believes could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. There is no action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation before or by any court, public board, government agency, self-regulatory organization or body pending or, to the knowledge of the executive officers of our company or any of our subsidiaries, threatened against or affecting our company, our common stock, any of our subsidiaries or of our companies or our subsidiaries’ officers or directors in their capacities as such, in which an adverse decision could have a material adverse effect.
Note 14. Significant Customer Concentrations
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company had no single customer that accounted for over 5% or more of our annual sales.
During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company had two customers, Funicelli (7.6%) and Sarkin Nourian (7.7%) accounting for over 5% or more of our annual sales.
Sales to customers in Russia represented 55.9% and 36.1% of total sales for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The Company has no other sales outside the U.S. As of October 1, 2014, the Company ceased operations in Russia due to the economic, currency and political condition in Russia, and to concentrate on its domestic operations and the duty free industry, which is a $60 billion industry worldwide.
All of our sales are generated from our customer base of approximately 50 customers.
As of December 31, 2014 two customers represented 60.1% and 13.7%, respectively, of the Company’s net accounts receivable. As of December 31, 2013, one individual customer represented 21% of the Company’s outstanding accounts receivable. No other customer has a balance over 10% of the Company’s outstanding accounts receivable.
Note 15. Fair Value Measurements
FASB ASC 820, “Fair Value Measurements” defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value under generally accepted accounting principles and prescribes disclosures about fair value measurements.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Note 15. Fair Value Measurements (continued)
As defined in ASC 820, fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). The Company utilizes market data or assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk and the risks inherent in the inputs to the valuation technique. These inputs can be readily observable, market corroborated, or generally unobservable. The Company classifies fair value balances based on the observability of those inputs. ASC 820 establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (level 3 measurement).
The three levels of the fair value hierarchy defined by ASC 820 are as follows:
Level 1 - Quoted prices are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reporting date. Active markets are those in which transactions for the asset or liability occur in sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. Level 1 primarily consists of financial instruments such as exchange-traded derivatives, marketable securities and listed equities.
Level 2 - Pricing inputs are other than quoted prices in active markets included in level 1, which are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reported date. Level 2 includes those financial instruments that are valued using models or other valuation methodologies. These models are primarily industry-standard models that consider various assumptions, including quoted forward prices for commodities, time value, volatility factors, and current market and contractual prices for the underlying instruments, as well as other relevant economic measures. Substantially all of these assumptions are observable in the marketplace throughout the full term of the instrument, can be derived from observable data or are supported by observable levels at which transactions are executed in the marketplace. Instruments in this category generally include non-exchange-traded derivatives such as commodity swaps, interest rate swaps, options and collars.
Level 3 - Pricing inputs include significant inputs that are generally less observable from objective sources. These inputs may be used with internally developed methodologies that result in management’s best estimate of fair value.
The valuation techniques that may be used to measure fair value are as follows:
Market approach - Uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities
Income approach - Uses valuation techniques to convert future amounts to a single present amount based on current market expectations about those future amounts, including present value techniques, option-pricing models and excess earnings method
Cost approach - Based on the amount that currently would be required to replace the service capacity of an asset (replacement cost)
The carrying value of the Company’s borrowings is a reasonable estimate of its fair value as borrowings under the Company’s credit facility have variable rates that reflect currently available terms and conditions for similar debt.
The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment, and may affect the valuation of fair value assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels.
BERGIO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
Note 15. Fair Value Measurements (continued)
The following table sets forth by level within the fair value hierarchy the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013. As required by FASB ASC 820, financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
In addition, the FASB issued, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. This guidance expands opportunities to use fair value measurements in financial reporting and permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. The Company did not elect the fair value option for any of its qualifying financial instruments.
Note 16. Subsequent Events
In February 2015, the Company issued 800,000 shares of common stock to Iliad for conversion of convertible debt.
On February 4, 2015, the Company issued an 8% convertible note to KBM Worldwide, Inc. in the amount of $54,000. The note is convertible, at the option of the Company, at any time after the six month anniversary. The note is convertible into common stock at a price that is the greater of $0.00009 or 60% of the average three lowest stock prices for the ten trading days prior to the date of conversion.
On March 11, 2015, the Company issued an 8% convertible note to VIS Vires Group, Inc. in the amount of $38,000. The note is convertible, at the option of the Company, at any time after the six month anniversary. The note is convertible into common stock at a price that is the greater of $0.00009 or 60% of the average three lowest stock prices for the ten trading days prior to the date of conversion.
Item 9.
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
There are no reportable events under this item for the year ended December 31, 2014.
Item 9A.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
a) Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports we file pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) are recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the SEC, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our Principal Executive Officer (“PEO”) and Principal Financial Officer (“PFO”), to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can only provide a reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and in reaching a reasonable level of assurance, management necessarily was required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. Management designed the disclosure controls and procedures to provide reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives.
We carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our PEO and PFO, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report. Based upon that evaluation, the PEO and PFO concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were not effective.
b) Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in the Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f). A system of internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the principal executive officer and the principal financial officer, the Company’s management has evaluated the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the criteria established in a report entitled “Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission” and the interpretive guidance issued by the Commission in Release No. 34-55929. Based on this evaluation, the Company’s management has evaluated and concluded that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was ineffective as of December 31, 2014, and identified the following material weaknesses:
·
There is a lack of accounting personnel with the requisite knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the US (“GAAP”) and the financial reporting requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
·
There are insufficient written policies and procedures to insure the correct application of accounting and financial reporting with respect to the current requirements of GAAP and SEC disclosure requirements.
·
There is a lack of segregation of duties, in that we only had one person performing all accounting-related duties.
Notwithstanding the existence of these material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, our management believes that the financial statements included in its reports fairly present in all material respects the Company’s financial condition, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented.
The Company will continue its assessment on a quarterly basis. We plan to hire personnel and resources to address these material weaknesses. We believe these issues can be solved with hiring accounting support and plan to do so as soon as we have funds available for this.
This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. The Company’s registered public accounting firm was not required to issue an attestation on its internal controls over financial reporting pursuant to temporary rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company will continue to evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls and procedures on an on-going basis.
c) Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act) during the year ended December 31, 2014, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Item 9B.
Item 9B. Other Information.
Not applicable.
PART III
Item 10.
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant.
The following table and text sets forth the names and ages of all our directors and executive officers and our key management personnel as of March 31, 2015. All of our directors serve until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until their successors are elected and qualified, or until their earlier death, retirement, resignation or removal. Executive officers serve at the discretion of the board of directors, and are elected or appointed to serve until the next Board of Directors meeting following the annual meeting of stockholders. Also provided is a brief description of the business experience of each director and executive officer and the key management personnel during the past five years and an indication of directorships held by each director in other companies subject to the reporting requirements under the Federal securities laws.
Background of Directors and Officers
Berge Abajian became the Chief Executive Officer of Bergio International in October 2009. Prior to that, Mr. Abajian served as CEO of the Diamond Information Institute, the predecessor company to Bergio, from 1988 to October 2009. Mr. Abajian has a BS in Business Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University and is well known and respected in the jewelry industry. Since 2005, Mr. Abajian has served as the President of the East Coast branch of the Armenian Jewelry Association and has also served as a Board Member on MJSA (Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America), New York Jewelry Association, and the 2001-2002 Luxury Show.
Term of Office
Our directors are appointed for a one-year term to hold office until the next annual general meeting of our shareholders or until removed from office in accordance with our bylaws. Our officers are appointed by our board of directors and hold office until removed by the board, except to the extent governed by an employment agreement.
Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings
To the best of our knowledge, during the past ten years, none of the following occurred with respect to our present or former director, executive officer, or employee: (1) any bankruptcy petition filed by or against any business of which such person was a general partner or executive officer either at the time of the bankruptcy or within two years prior to that time; (2) any conviction in a criminal proceeding or being subject to a pending criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses); (3) being subject to any order, judgment or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction, permanently or temporarily enjoining, barring, suspending or otherwise limiting his or her involvement in any type of business, securities or banking activities; and (4) being found by a court of competent jurisdiction (in a civil action), the SEC or the Commodities Futures Trading Commission to have violated a federal or state securities or commodities law, and the judgment has not been reversed, suspended or vacated.
Meetings of Our Board of Directors
Our Board did not hold any meetings during the most recently completed fiscal year end. Various matters were approved by written consent, which in each case was signed by each of the members of the Board then serving.
Committees of the Board
We do not currently have a compensation committee, executive committee, or stock plan committee.
Audit Committee
We do not have a separately-designated standing audit committee. The entire Board performs the functions of an audit committee, but no written charter governs the actions of the Board when performing the functions of what would generally be performed by an audit committee. The Board approves the selection of our independent accountants and meets and interacts with the independent accountants to discuss issues related to financial reporting. In addition, the Board reviews the scope and results of the audit with the independent accountants, reviews with management and the independent accountants our annual operating results, considers the adequacy of our internal accounting procedures and considers other auditing and accounting matters including fees to be paid to the independent auditor and the performance of the independent auditor.
Nomination Committee
Our Board does not maintain a nominating committee. As a result, no written charter governs the director nomination process. Our size and the size of our Board, at this time, do not require a separate nominating committee.
When evaluating director nominees, our directors consider the following factors:
·
The appropriate size of our board of directors;
·
Our needs with respect to the particular talents and experience of our directors;
·
The knowledge, skills and experience of nominees, including experience in finance, administration or public service, in light of prevailing business conditions and the knowledge, skills and experience already possessed by other members of the Board;
·
Experience in political affairs;
·
Experience with accounting rules and practices; and
·
The desire to balance the benefit of continuity with the periodic injection of the fresh perspective provided by new Board members.
Our goal is to assemble a Board that brings together a variety of perspectives and skills derived from high quality business and professional experience.
Other than the foregoing, there are no stated minimum criteria for director nominees, although the Board may also consider such other factors as it may deem are in our best interests as well as our stockholders. In addition, the Board identifies nominees by first evaluating the current members of the Board willing to continue in service. Current members of the Board with skills and experience that are relevant to our business and who are willing to continue in service are considered for re-nomination. If any member of the Board does not wish to continue in service or if the Board decides not to re-nominate a member for re-election, the Board then identifies the desired skills and experience of a new nominee in light of the criteria above. Current members of the Board are polled for suggestions as to individuals meeting the criteria described above. The Board may also engage in research to identify qualified individuals. To date, we have not engaged third parties to identify or evaluate or assist in identifying potential nominees, although we reserve the right in the future to retain a third party search firm, if necessary.
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
As of December 31, 2014, the end of the last fiscal year, all officers, directors and 10% beneficial owners, known to the Company, had timely filed required forms reporting beneficial ownership of Company securities, based solely on review of Filed Forms 3 and 4 furnished to the Company.
Code of Ethics
We do not currently have a code of ethics that applies to our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Accounting Officer or Controller, or persons performing similar functions. Because we have only limited business operations and four officers and directors, we believe a code of ethics would have limited utility. We intend to adopt such a code of ethics as our business operations expand and we have more directors, officers and employees.
Item 11.
Item 11. Executive Compensation.
Overview
The following is a discussion of our program for compensating our named executive officers and directors. Currently, we do not have a compensation committee, and as such, our board of directors is responsible for determining the compensation of our named executive officers.
Compensation Program Objectives and Philosophy
The primary goals of our policy of executive compensation are to attract and retain the most talented and dedicated executives possible, to assure that our executives are compensated effectively in a manner consistent with our strategy and competitive practice and to align executive compensation with the achievement of our short- and long-term business objectives.
The Board considers a variety of factors in determining compensation of executives, including their particular background and circumstances, such as their training and prior relevant work experience, their success in attracting and retaining savvy and technically proficient managers and employees, increasing our revenues, broadening our product line offerings, managing our costs and otherwise helping to lead our Company through a period of rapid growth.
In the near future, we expect that our Board will form a compensation committee charged with the oversight of executive compensation plans, policies and programs of our Company and with the full authority to determine and approve the compensation of our chief executive officer and make recommendations with respect to the compensation of our other executive officers. We expect that our compensation committee will continue to follow the general approach to executive compensation that we have followed to date, rewarding superior individual and company performance with commensurate compensation.
Employment Agreements
On September 1, 2011, the Company entered into an amended and restated employment agreement (the “Amended Agreement”) with Mr. Abajian, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, restating that certain employment agreement by and between the parties as of February 28, 2010.
Pursuant to the terms of the Amended Agreement, Mr. Abajian shall serve as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer for a period of five years, commencing retroactively on February 28, 2010, and expiring on February 28, 2015 (the “Term”). Upon conclusion of the Term, the Amended Agreement shall be automatically renewed for successive one year periods upon the same terms and conditions unless terminated by either of the parties in accordance with the Amended Agreement’s terms.
Mr. Abajian is to receive a base salary in the amount of $175,000 per annum for year one, commencing on February 28, 2010, and shall increase at a rate of three percent (3%) per annum for each consecutive year after 2010, or at such rates as are approved from time to time by the Company’s board of directors. For the past two years, Mr. Abajian has decreased his salary and waived the salary increase in his effort to help the Company financially. In addition, Mr. Abajian may receive an annual bonus up to one-half percent (0.5%) based upon the Company’s annual net profit before taxes. Mr. Abajian is also eligible to participate in the Company’s medical insurance plan, life insurance plan or any 401(k), pension or similar plans that are now or may be in the future established, for the general benefit of the Company’s senior executives. Further, and pursuant to the terms of the Amended Agreement, the Company issued to Mr. Abajian 51 shares of the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, subject to certain increases.
Retirement Benefits
Currently, we do not provide any Company sponsored retirement benefits to any employee, including the named executive officers.
Perquisites
We have historically provided only modest perquisites to our named executive officers. We do not view perquisites as a significant element of our compensation structure, but do believe that perquisites can be useful in attracting, motivating and retaining the executive talent for which we compete. It is expected that our historical practices regarding perquisites will continue and will be subject to periodic review by our by our board of directors.
The following table presents information regarding compensation of our principal executive officer, and the two most highly compensated executive officers other than the principal executive officer for services rendered during years ended 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Summary Compensation Table
(1)
The amounts shown in this column represent the dollar value of base cash salary earned by each named executive officer (“NEO”).
(2)
Mr. Abajian voluntarily deferred $75,000, $25,000, and $25,000 of his salary for the years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, until such time as the Company is in a better financial position.
(3)
No incentive compensation was made to the NEO’s in 2013, 2012 and 2011, and therefore no amounts are shown.
(4)
Amounts in this column represent the fair value required by ASC Topic 718 to be included in our financial statements for all options granted during that year.
(5)
Other compensation was made up of Mr. Abajian’s car expense and health insurance expenses.
Incentive Stock and Award Plan
On May 9, 2011, the Company’s Board approved, authorized and adopted the 2011 Incentive Stock and Award Plan (the “Plan”). The Plan was amended on October 11, 2012. Subject to adjustment for mergers, reorganizations, consolidation, recapitalization, stock dividend or other change in corporate structure, a total of 35,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share is subject to the Plan. Under the Plan, the Company may grant non-qualified options (the “Non-qualified Options”), incentive options (the “Incentive Options” and together with the Non-qualified Options, the “Options”) and restricted stock (the “Restricted Stock”) to directors, officers, consultants, attorneys, advisors and employees. Subject to a tax exception, if any Option or Restricted Stock expires or is canceled prior to its exercise or vesting in full, the shares of common stock issuable under the Option or Restricted Stock may be issuable pursuant to future Options or Restricted Stock under the Plan.
The Plan shall be administered by a committee consisting of one (1) director (the “Committee”). In the absence of such a Committee, the Company’s Board shall administer the Plan.
Each Option shall contain the following material terms:
(i) the exercise price, which shall be determined by the Committee at the time of grant, shall not be less than 100% of the Fair Market Value (defined as the closing price on the final trading day immediately prior to the grant on the principal exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted, as applicable) of the Common Stock of the Company on the date the Option is granted, provided that if the recipient of the Option owns more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting power of the Company, the exercise price shall be at least 110% of the Fair Market Value;
(ii) the term of each Option shall be fixed by the Committee, provided that such Option shall not be exercisable more than ten (10) years after the date such Option is granted, andprovided further that with respect to an Incentive Option, if the recipient owns more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting power of the Company, the Incentive Stock Option shall not be exercisable more than five (5) years after the date such Incentive Option is granted;
(iii) subject to acceleration in the event of a Change of Control of the Company (as further described in the Plan), the period during which the Options vest shall be designated by the Committee or, in the absence of any Option vesting periods designated by the Committee at the time of grant, shall vest and become exercisable in equal amounts on each fiscal year of the Company through the five (5) year anniversary of the date on which the Option was granted;
(iv) no Option is transferable and each is exercisable only by the recipient of such Option except in the event of the death of the recipient; and
(v) with respect to Incentive Stock Options, the aggregate Fair Market Value of Common Stock that may be issued for the first time during any calendar year shall not exceed $100,000.
Each award of Restricted Stock is subject to the following material terms:
(i) no rights to an award of Restricted Stock is granted to the intended recipient of Restricted Stock unless and until the grant of Restricted Stock is accepted within the period prescribed by the Committee;
(ii) Restricted Stock shall not be delivered until they are free of any restrictions specified by the Committee at the time of grant;
(iii) shares of Restricted Stock are forfeitable until the terms of the Restricted Stock grant have been satisfied; and
(iv) the Restricted Stock are not transferable until the date on which the Committee has specified such restrictions have lapsed.
Stock Option Grants
We have not granted any stock options to the executive officers or directors since the adoption of the Plan.
Director Compensation
We do not currently pay any cash fees or expenses to our sole director for serving on the Board.
Compensation Policy
The Company does not believe that its compensation policies are reasonably likely to increase corporate risk or have a material adverse effect on the Company.
Item 12.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.
The following table sets forth certain information known to the Company with respect to the beneficial ownership as of April 7, 2015, by (i) all persons who are beneficial owners of five percent (5%) or more of the Company’s Common Stock, (ii) each director and nominee, (iii) the executive officers, and (iv) all current directors and executive officers as a group.
(1) Unless otherwise indicated, the address of each beneficial owner listed above is c/o Bergio International, Inc., 12 Daniel Road East, Fairfield, NJ 07007.
(2) Based on a total of 7,398,740 shares of common stock outstanding on December 31, 2014
(3) Mr. Abajian also owns 51 shares of the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock.
Issuances Under the Compensation Plan
The following table provides information as of December 31, 2014 regarding compensation plans under which equity securities of the Company are authorized for issuance.
Note: Only restricted shares of common stock were issued pursuant to this plan.
Changes in Control
We are not aware of any arrangements that may result in “changes in control” as that term is defined by the provisions of Item 403(c) of Regulation S-K.
Item 13.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Except as follows, none of our directors or executive officers, nor any proposed nominee for election as a director, nor any person who beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, shares carrying more than 5% of the voting rights attached to all of our outstanding shares, nor any members of the immediate family (including spouse, parents, children, siblings, and in-laws) of any of the foregoing persons has any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction over the last two years or in any presently proposed transaction which, in either case, has or will materially affect us.
The Company receives periodic advances from its principal stockholder based upon the Company’s cash flow needs. At December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, $224,124 and $153,550, respectively, was due to the shareholder, including accrued interest. Interest expense is accrued at an average annual market rate of interest which was 3.15% at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. Interest expense due to shareholder was $6,764 and $5,531 for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Accrued interest was $49,658 and $42,895 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. No terms for repayment have been established. As a result, the amount is classified as a Current Liability.
Director Independence
The common stock of the Company is currently quoted on the OTC Markets, a quotation system which currently does not have director independence requirements. On an annual basis, each director and executive officer will be obligated to disclose any transactions with the Company in which a director or executive officer, or any member of his or her immediate family, have a direct or indirect material interest in accordance with Item 407(a) of Regulation S-K. Following completion of these disclosures, the Board will make an annual determination as to the independence of each director using the current standards for “independence” that satisfy the criteria for the Nasdaq.
At this time, the Company does not have any independent directors.
Item 14.
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
Resignation of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Effective July 24, 2014, Bergio International, Inc. (the “Company”) was informed by its independent registered public accounting firm, Silberstein Ungar, PLLC (“Silberstein”), that Silberstein’s principals have joined KLJ & Associates, LLP (“KLJ”). As a result of such transaction, Silberstein effectively resigned as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm and KLJ was engaged as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm.
Silberstein’s report on the financial statements for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, contained no adverse opinion or disclaimer of opinion, and were not qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or accounting principle, except that the report contained a modification to the effect that there was substantial doubt as to the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, and through July 24, 2014, there were no disagreements with Silberstein on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure or auditing scope or procedure, which disagreements, if not resolved to the satisfaction of Silberstein, would have caused it to make reference to the subject matter of the disagreements in its reports on the financial statements for such year. During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, there were no reportable events as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K.
(b) New Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Effective July 24, 2014, the board of directors of the Company approved the engagement of KLJ, as the Company’s new independent registered public accounting firm.
During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, and the subsequent interim period prior to the engagement of KLJ, the Company has not consulted KLJ regarding (i) the application of accounting principles to any specified transaction, either completed or proposed, (ii) the type of audit opinion that might be rendered on the Company’s financial statements, or (iii) any matter that was either the subject of a disagreement (as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v)) or a reportable event (as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v)).
The following table presents the aggregate fees for professional audit services and other services rendered by KLJ and Associates, LLP and Silberstein Ungar, PLLC, our independent registered public accountants in 2014 and 2013.
(1) For 2014 and 2013, all other fees paid to KLJ and Associates, LLP and Silberstein Ungar, PLLC are related to reviewing the Company’s quarterly reports and various traveling expenses associated therewith.
Audit Fees. This category includes the audit of the Company’s consolidated financial statements, and reviews of the financial statements included in the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. It also includes advice on accounting matters that arose during, or as a result of, the audit or the review of interim financial statements, and services which are normally provided in connection with regulatory filings, or in an auditing engagement.
Audit Related Fees, tax and other fees. For 2014 and 2013, all other fees paid to KLJ and Associates, LLP and Silberstein Ungar, PLLC are related to reviewing the Company’s quarterly reports and various traveling expenses associated therewith.
Item 15.
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.
a.) The following documents are filed as a part of this report:
* Filed herewith
Signatures
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated and by signature hereto.
Signature
Title
Date
/s/ Berge Abajian
Chief Executive Officer and Chairman
April 15, 2015
Berge Abajian