As filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on October 21, 2024.
Registration No. 333-282027
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
AMENDMENT NO. 2
TO
FORM F-1
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
DIGINEX LIMITED
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
Cayman Islands | 7389 | N/A | ||
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization) |
(Primary Standard Industrial Classification Code Number) |
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
Smart-Space Fintech 2, Room 3, Unit 401-404 Core C, Cyberport, Telegraph Bay,
Hong Kong
+852 3618 5881
(Address and Telephone Number of Registrant’s Principal Executive Offices)
Puglisi & Associates
850 Library Avenue, Suite 204
Newark, Delaware 19711
302-738-6680
(Name, Address, and Telephone Number of Agent for Service)
Copies to:
Mitchell Nussbaum, Esq. Andrei Sirabionian, Esq. James A. Prestiano, Esq. Loeb & Loeb LLP 345 Park Avenue New York, NY 10154 Tel: (212) 407-4000 |
Mitchell L. Lampert, Esq. Robinson & Cole LLP 1055 Washington Boulevard Stamford, CT 06901 Telephone: (203) 462-7559 |
Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public: From time to time after the effective date of this registration statement.
If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, check the following box. ☒
If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. ☐
If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. ☐
If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933.
Emerging growth company ☒
If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards† provided pursuant to Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act. ☐
†The term “new or revised financial accounting standard” refers to any update issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board to its Accounting Standards Codification after April 5, 2012.
The registrant hereby amends this registration statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the registrant shall file a further amendment that specifically states that this registration statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act or until the registration statement shall become effective on such date as the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This Registration Statement contains two prospectuses, as set forth below.
● | Public Offering Prospectus. A prospectus to be used for the public offering by the Registrant of 2,250,000 Ordinary Shares of the Registrant (the “Public Offering Prospectus”) through the underwriter named on the cover page of the Public Offering Prospectus. | |
● | Resale Prospectus. A prospectus to be used for the resale by the Selling Shareholders set forth therein of 2,992,180 Ordinary Shares in aggregate of the Registrant (the “Resale Prospectus”). |
The Resale Prospectus is substantively identical to the Public Offering Prospectus, except for the following principal points:
● | they contain different outside and inside front covers and back covers; | |
● | they contain different Offering sections in the Prospectus Summary section beginning on page Alt-1; | |
● | They contain different Lock-up Agreements section on page Alt-12; | |
● | a Selling Shareholders section is included in the Resale Prospectus; | |
● | a Selling Shareholders Plan of Distribution is inserted; and | |
● | the Legal Matters section in the Resale Prospectus on page Alt-14 deletes the reference to counsel for the underwriter. |
The Registrant has included in this Registration Statement a set of alternate pages after the back cover page of the Public Offering Prospectus (the “Alternate Pages”) to reflect the foregoing differences in the Resale Prospectus as compared to the Public Offering Prospectus. The Public Offering Prospectus will exclude the Alternate Pages and will be used for the public offering by the Registrant. The Resale Prospectus will be substantively identical to the Public Offering Prospectus except for the addition or substitution of the Alternate Pages and will be used for the resale offering by the Selling Shareholder.
The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and is not the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted.
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION—DATED OCTOBER 21, 2024
PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS
DIGINEX LIMITED
2,250,000 Ordinary Shares
Diginex Limited (“Diginex Limited” or the “Company” or “we” or “our”) is a Cayman Islands exempted company with subsidiaries located in Hong Kong, United Kingdom and United States of America. Diginex Limited is the sole owner of Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited, a Hong Kong corporation (“DSL”) and DSL is the sole owner of (i) Diginex Services Limited, a corporation formed in the United Kingdom and (ii) Diginex USA LLC, a limited liability company formed in the State of Delaware. We are not a Chinese or Hong Kong operating company, but an offshore holding company incorporated in the Cayman Islands. As a holding company with no material operations of our own, we conduct our operations through our operating subsidiaries in Hong Kong, United Kingdom and the United States. This is an offering (the “Offering”) of the shares of Diginex Limited, the holding company in the Cayman Islands, and not the shares of our operating subsidiaries. Investors in our shares should be aware that they may never hold equity interests in our operating subsidiaries directly.
This is the initial public offering of Diginex Limited. We are offering 2,250,000 ordinary shares, par value US$0.00005 each, of Diginex Limited (the “Ordinary Shares”). The Selling Shareholders are offering 2,992,180 Ordinary Shares in aggregate to be sold in the Offering pursuant to the Resale Prospectus. We will not receive any proceeds from the sale of the Ordinary Shares to be sold by the Selling Shareholders.
The Selling Shareholders may offer, sell or distribute all or a portion of these securities from time to time through public or private transactions, at either prevailing market prices or at privately negotiated prices. See the section titled “Selling Shareholders Plan Of Distribution” in the Resale Prospectus for details.
Prior to this Offering, there has been no public market for our Ordinary Shares. It is currently estimated that the initial public offering price per Ordinary Share will be between $4.00 and $6.00. Diginex Limited has submitted an application to The Nasdaq Stock Market to list our Ordinary Shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “DGNX.” The initial public offering of our Ordinary Shares is contingent upon our Ordinary Shares being listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market, the New York Stock Exchange or some other national securities exchange. There is no guarantee or assurance that our Ordinary Shares will be approved for listing on The Nasdaq Stock Market. Further, there is no assurance that the Offering will be closed and our Ordinary Shares will be trading on Nasdaq Stock Market. We will not proceed to consummate this Offering if our securities are not approved for listing on The Nasdaq Stock Market.
The Ordinary Shares registered for resale as part of the Resale Prospectus, once registered, will constitute a considerable percentage of our public float. The sales of a substantial number of registered shares could result in a significant decline in the public trading price of our Ordinary Shares and could impair our ability to raise capital through the sale or issuance of additional Ordinary Shares. We are unable to predict the effect that such sales may have on the prevailing market price of our Ordinary Shares. Despite such a decline in the public trading price, certain Selling Shareholders may still experience a positive rate of return on the Ordinary Shares due to the lower price that they acquired the Ordinary Shares compared to other public investors and may be incentivized to sell their Ordinary Shares when others are not. See “Risk Factors — The future sales of Ordinary Shares by existing shareholders, including the sales pursuant to the Resale Prospectus, may adversely affect the market price of our Ordinary Shares.”
We are an “emerging growth company” as defined under the federal securities laws and will be subject to reduced public company reporting requirements. See “Prospectus Summary — Implications of Our Being an ‘Emerging Growth Company’” and “Risk Factors” on pages 3 and 10, respectively.
Diginex Limited is a Cayman Islands exempted company, incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands on January 26, 2024. Upon incorporation, one (1) ordinary share of Diginex Limited was issued to Rhino Ventures Limited. On July 15, 2024, Diginex Limited and Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited (“DSL”) completed a restructuring pursuant to a share exchange agreement (the “Share Exchange Agreement”), whereby the then existing shareholders of DSL (the “Original Shareholders”) transferred all of their shares in DSL to Diginex Limited, in consideration for Diginex Limited’s issuance of substantially the same securities to such shareholders in exchange for the securities of DSL held by Original Shareholders (the “Exchange”). Prior to the Exchange there were 16,756 ordinary shares of DSL issued and outstanding, 3,151 preferred shares of DSL issued and outstanding and 10,172 warrants of DSL issued and outstanding. In the Exchange, each of the securities of DSL were exchanged for substantially the same securities of Diginex Limited at an exchange ratio of one (1) ordinary share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited , one (1) preferred share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Preferred Shares of Diginex Limited and one (1) warrant of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) warrants of Diginex Limited.
Prior to the Exchange on May 28, 2023, DSL agreed to an $8,000,000 share subscription agreement with Rhino Ventures Limited and on September 28, 2023 executed a subscription agreement (the “RVL Subscription Agreement”). Pursuant to the RVL Subscription Agreement, DSL issued Rhino Ventures Limited 5,086 ordinary shares and 10,172 warrants in exchange for $8.0 million. The warrants will be exercisable for ordinary shares of DSL for a period of three years from the date they are issued and shall be exercisable at a per warrant price of US$2,512. Post the completion of the Restructuring and Share Subdivision (as defined below), the number of warrants of Diginex Limited issued to Rhino Ventures Limited was adjusted to 4,170,520 from 10,172 with an adjusted price per warrant of US$6.13. The warrants, if fully exercised, will result in the issuance of such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 51% of the total issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of the warrants being exercised. This will be prorated for partial exercise of warrants. Rhino Ventures Limited paid the subscription price by the payment of $6.1 million in cash and the forgiveness of $1.9 million of debt due to Rhino Ventures Limited. The RVL Subscription Agreement also activated an anti-dilution clause in the Articles of Association of DSL which resulted in HBM IV, Inc. being issued 151 preferred shares of DSL for zero consideration. This increased HBM IV, Inc.’s holding to 3,151 preferred shares of DSL.
In connection with the Exchange, Diginex Limited and security holders of DSL consummated the following transactions (the “Ancillary Transactions”): (i) Diginex Limited issued $4.35 million new convertible loan notes to certain Original Shareholders in consideration for the cancellation of the then existing convertible loan notes issued by DSL and held by such Original Shareholders; (ii) Diginex Limited granted certain share options under the new share option plan that was adopted by Diginex Limited to the holders of the unexercised share options granted by DSL (the “Original Share Options”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Share Options held by such holders. At time of the Exchange there were 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting and (iii) Diginex Limited granted certain warrants to purchase Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited to the holders of the then existing warrants to purchase ordinary shares of DSL (the “Original Warrants”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Warrants held by such holders. The convertible loan notes will automatically convert into Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited upon the effectiveness of this registration statement and whilst there is no automatic vesting of any unvested share options upon completion of this Offering the board of directors, at their discretion, do have the ability to accelerate vesting at any point. At the time of this registration statement there was no confirmation if the board of directors will accelerate vesting. The fair value of all unvested ESOP as of the date of this registration statement is $1.8 million of which $0.2 million was recognized in the combined financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2024.
Accordingly, upon consummation of the Exchange and the Ancillary Transactions (collectively the “Restructuring”), DSL became a wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited, and the prior shareholders of DSL became shareholders of Diginex Limited. The remaining DSL security holders became security holders of Diginex Limited, in that they held Diginex Limited convertible loan notes, share options and warrants. Following, the closing of the Restructuring there is 6,869,961 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited issued and outstanding, 1,291,910 preferred shares of Diginex Limited issued and outstanding, 4,179,520 warrants issued and outstanding, $4.35 million new convertible loan notes issued and outstanding and 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting.
Following the Restructuring, on July 26, 2024, the Company completed a share subdivision (the “Share Subdivision”) such that, the authorized share capital of the Company was revised to be US$50,000 divided into 960,000,000 Ordinary Shares of US$0.00005 par value each and 40,000,000 preferred shares (the “Preferred Shares”), par value US$0.00005 per share. Prior to the Share Subdivision there were 6,869,961 ordinary shares and 1,291,910 preferred shares issued and outstanding, and after the Share Subdivision there are 13,739,922 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding.
During the Restructuring, a $1 million loan due from DSL to a related company, Diginex Holdings Limited, a company controlled by Rhino Ventures Limited, was converted into a $1 million convertible loan note of which Rhino Ventures Limited holds $517,535 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note and Working Capital Innovation Fund II L.P. holds $482,465 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note. The loan between DSL and Diginex Holdings Limited charged interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. The terms of the new convertible loan notes also charge interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. This $1 million convertible loan note forms part of the $4.35 million loan notes issued by Diginex Limited post the Restructuring.
On August 6, 2024 certain Employee Share Option Plan (“ESOP”) holders exercised their options and converted their options into Ordinary Shares. 501,840 employee share options were converted into 1,003,680 Ordinary Shares whilst 109,470 employee share options lapsed without being exercised. In addition, 368,826 employee share options were issued on July 31, 2024 and on August 21, 2024 employee share options were issued to 0.5% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting. The remaining employee share options as at the time of this registration statement are 54,245 vested but not exercised, 368,826 unvested employee share options and unvested employee share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.7% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting. Prior to the exercise of 501,840 options on August 6, 2024 there were 13,739,922 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding, and after such exercise of 501,840 options there are 14,743,602 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding.
Since 17th November 2023, Rhino Ventures Limited (“RVL”) issued convertible notes (the “Rhino Notes”) to various investors of RVL (each a “Rhino Investor” and collectively the “Rhino Investors”). In exchange for a loan from a Rhino Investor, RVL issued the Rhino Investor a Rhino Note. The Rhino Notes are convertible into DSL ordinary shares, or successor securities, that were owned by RVL at a conversion price of between USD2.78 to USD2.99. The Rhino Notes were convertible into RVL’s shares of DSL ordinary shares, or successor securities, (1) at the option of the Rhino Investor or (2) automatically upon F-1 either being effective or having received 2 or below comments. On August 7, 2024, six of the Rhino Investors elected to convert their Rhino Notes and RVL transferred an aggregate amount of 2,992,180 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited, the successor securities to the DSL ordinary shares, to the six Rhino Investors as follows: (i) Samantha Dolan received 327,189 Ordinary Shares, (ii) Christopher Lord received 418,200 Ordinary Shares, (iii) Dorota Menard received 400,980 Ordinary Shares, (iv) Gildo Plate received 294,380 Ordinary Shares and (v) Natalia Pelham received 1,049,600 Ordinary Shares and (vi) Benjamin Salter received 501,840 Ordinary Shares. Currently, there are eight Rhino Investors that hold Rhino Notes which are collectively convertible into an aggregate amount of 1,775,300 Ordinary Shares. RVL may issue additional Rhino Notes prior to the completion of this Offering. Other than Natalia Pelham, who is our Chairman’s wife, the Rhino Investors are not related to Mr. Pelham nor are they affiliates to the Company. As of the date of this registration statement RVL holds 9,333,242 Ordinary Shares, which does not include the reduction for RVL’s Ordinary Shares that will be issued upon the conversion of the outstanding Rhino Notes.
DSL, Diginex Limited’s wholly owned subsidiary, currently owes RVL $2.4 million under a loan agreement, dated September 29, 2024 (the “RVL Loan”) and RVL will continue to fund Diginex Limited, via DSL through the completion of this Offering. Diginex Limited and RVL have agreed that RVL shall convert up to $3 million of the RVL Loan into Ordinary Shares upon the pricing of this Offering at the IPO offering price. Based on the assumed offering price of $5.00 per share, upon the pricing of the Offering, RVL’s loan, assuming loan balance of $3 million, the RVL Loan will convert into 600,000 Ordinary Shares. In exchange for RVL’s conversion of the RVL Loan into Ordinary Shares, Diginex Limited has agreed to provide RVL registration rights with respect to the Ordinary Shares that RVL receives upon conversion of the RVL Loan. The conversion of the RVL Loan is in addition to the conversion of the RVL convertible loan note with a principal balance of $517,535. The RVL Loan is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.9.
Diginex Limited is incorporated in Cayman Island and has a subsidiary, DSL, that is incorporated under the laws of Hong Kong and DSL’s principal executive offices and a portion of our global operations are located in Hong Kong. Although Hong Kong has its own governmental and legal system that is independent from China, it is uncertain whether in the future the Hong Kong government will implement regulations and policies of the Chinese government or adopt regulations and policies of its own that are substantially the same as those of the Chinese government. Therefore, all the legal and operational risks associated with having operations in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) also apply to operations in Hong Kong. Neither Diginex Limited nor DSL have any contractual arrangements with any variable interest entities (“VIE”) in the PRC. Since neither Diginex Limited nor DSL is a mainland Chinese company they are not required to obtain permission from the government of the PRC to operate and issue our Ordinary Shares to foreign investors. It is the opinion of our PRC counsel that Diginex Limited and DSL are not subject to the requirements of the China Securities Regulatory Commission (“CSRC”) or the Cyberspace Administration of China (“CAC”), and their operations are not subject to the review or approval of any other PRC governmental authority. If Diginex Limited and/or DSL was required to obtain approval from the CSRC, CAC or other PRC governmental authorities, obtaining such approvals could significantly limit or completely hinder Diginex Limited’s ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors and cause the value of Diginex Limited’s securities, including the Ordinary Shares, to significantly decline in value or be worthless. If Diginex Limited or DSL is required to obtain approval by the CSRC, CAC or other PRC governmental authorities, it could result in a material change in our operations, including our ability to continue our current business, and accept foreign investments, and such adverse actions would likely cause the value of our securities to significantly decline or become worthless, make us subject to penalties and sanctions imposed by PRC regulatory agencies, and cause us to be delisted or prohibit trading.
On February 17, 2023, the CSRC promulgated Trial Administrative Measures of the Overseas Securities Offering and Listing by Domestic Companies and relevant supporting guidelines, which became effected on March 31, 2023. On December 28, 2021, the CAC and certain other PRC regulatory authorities promulgated the Measures for Cybersecurity Review, which became effected on February 15, 2022. The promulgation of such new measures indicate that the Chinese government has stepped up supervision of mainland Chinese firms listed offshore and cross-border data flows and security, police illegal activity in the securities market and punish fraudulent securities issuances, market manipulation and insider trading. PRC will also monitor sources of funding for securities investment and control leverage ratios. The CAC has also opened a cybersecurity probe into several large U.S.-listed technology companies focusing on anti-monopoly and financial technology regulation and, more recently with the passage of the Data Security Law, how companies collect, store, process and transfer data.
The Chinese government has been exerting more control over the affairs of Hong Kong through the enactment of various new laws or otherwise, including (i) The Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (also known as the Hong Kong National Security Law). This is a PRC law which has direct application to Hong Kong and carries world-wide extraterritorial effect covering both PRC and non-PRC national; (ii) The Arrangement on Reciprocal Recognition and Enforcement of Judgments in Civil and Commercial Matters by the Courts of the Mainland and of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (“New Arrangement”), On the Hong Kong side, the New Arrangement needs to be implemented through local laws. According to the Hong Kong government’s constitutional report on November 10, 2023, the Mainland Civil and Commercial Judgments (Mutual Enforcement) Ordinance (Chapter 645) and the Mainland Civil and Commercial Judgments (Mutual Enforcement) Rules came into effect on January 29, 2024. On March 8, 2024, the Hong Kong SAR Government issued the Safeguarding National Security Bill (the “Bill”). The Bill as amended was then approved and passed at a full Legislative Council meeting on March 19, 2024. The Safeguarding National Security Ordinance became law and took effect from March 23, 2024. According to the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR, the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance demonstrates three key objectives: (1) to resolutely, fully and faithfully implement the policy of “one country, two systems” under which the people of Hong Kong administer Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy; (2) to establish and improve the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for the Hong Kong SAR to safeguard national security; and (3) to prevent, suppress and punish acts and activities endangering national security in accordance with the law, to protect the lawful rights and interests of the residents of the Hong Kong SAR and other people in the Hong Kong SAR, to ensure the property and investment in the Hong Kong SAR are protected by the law, to maintain prosperity and stability of the Hong Kong SAR. Because of the Company’s operations in Hong Kong and given the Chinese government’s significant oversight authority over the conduct of business in Hong Kong, there is always a risk that the Chinese government may, in the future, seek to affect operations of any company with any level of operations in PRC, including Hong Kong, including its ability to offer securities to investors, list its securities on a U.S. or other foreign exchange, conduct its business or accept foreign investment. In light of PRC’s recent expansion of authority in Hong Kong, there are risks and uncertainties which we cannot foresee for the time being, and rules and regulations in PRC can change quickly. The Hong Kong authorities have announced their plan to enact further national security related legislation in 2024. The contents of these new laws are still unknown but they may have a further impact on foreign organizations and their operations in Hong Kong. The Chinese government may intervene or influence our current and future operations in Hong Kong and PRC at any time, or may exert more control over offerings conducted overseas and/or foreign investment in issuers likes ourselves.
If certain PRC laws and regulations were to become applicable to Diginex Limited or DSL in the future, the application of such laws and regulations may have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations and our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors, any of which may cause the value of our securities, including Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares, to significantly decline or become worthless. For example, if the PRC Data Security Law were to apply to Diginex Limited’s Hong Kong-based businesses, Diginex Limited and its subsidiaries could become subject to data security and privacy obligations, including the need to conduct a national security review of data activities that may affect the national security of the PRC, and be prohibited from providing data stored in Hong Kong to foreign judicial or law enforcement agencies without approval from relevant PRC regulatory authorities.
In December 2021, the SEC adopted rules to implement the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act (“HFCAA”) and pursuant to the HFCAA, the PCAOB issued its report notifying the SEC of its determination that it is unable to inspect or investigate completely accounting firms headquartered in mainland China of PRC and Hong Kong. If any law relating to the PCAOB access to auditor files were to apply to a company such as us or our auditor, the PCAOB may be unable to fully inspect our auditor, which may result in our securities, including our Ordinary Shares, being delisted or prohibited from being traded pursuant to the HFCAA and materially and adversely affect the value and/or liquidity of your investment. Diginex Limited’s independent registered public accounting firm, UHY LLP, is not subject to the determinations announced by the PCAOB on December 16, 2021. UHY LLP are headquartered in Farmington Hills, MI and are not headquartered in the PRC or Hong Kong. The PCAOB currently has access to inspect the working papers of UHY LLP. As a result, we do not believe the HFCAA and related regulations will affect Diginex Limited. If, however, Diginex Limited’s independent registered public accounting firm, or its affiliates, were denied, even temporarily, the ability to practice before the SEC and PCAOB, and it were determined that our financial statements or audit reports are not in compliance with the requirements of the U.S. Exchange Act, Diginex Limited could be at risk of delisting or become subject to other penalties that would adversely affect Diginex Limited’s ability to remain listed on the Nasdaq.
In addition, while we believe that the statements or regulatory actions by the relevant parts of the PRC government, including those in relation to PRC Data Security Law, the CAC, the PRC Personal Information Protection Law and VIEs, and the anti-monopoly enforcement actions taken by relevant PRC government authorities, will not have any material adverse impact on our ability to conduct business, accept foreign investments, or list on a U.S. or other foreign exchange, there is no guarantee that will continue to be the case or that the PRC government will not seek to intervene or influence our operations at any time. Should such statements or regulatory actions apply to a company such as us in the future, it would likely have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations, our ability to accept foreign investments and our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors on a U.S. or other international securities exchange, any of which may cause the value of our securities, including our Ordinary Shares, to significantly decline or become worthless.
If any or all of the foregoing were to occur, this could result in a material change in our Company’s operations and/or the value of our Ordinary Shares and/or significantly limit or completely hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors and cause the value of such securities to significantly decline or be worthless. While we cannot predict the extent of such impact if such events were to occur, we expect that to the extent certain laws and regulations of the PRC become applicable to us, we may relocate our principal executive offices, employees, and operations out of Hong Kong. We may also be forced to dissolve our Hong Kong subsidiary and incorporate one or more new entities outside of Hong Kong. While we believe we may be able to relocate and reorganize, as an early-stage enterprise with limited revenue and that is not currently profitable, the costs and expenses related to relocating our offices, employees, and operations, as well as the legal and professional fees associated with reorganizing certain legal entities, would likely have a material impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. There can be no guarantee that Diginex Limited’s business lines, individually or together with our other business lines will be able to produce sufficient cash flows to fund the capital requirements and expenditures necessary to run the business and relocate.
For additional detail on these and other risks, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong” starting on page 16 of this prospectus.
An investment in our securities involves risks. See “Risk Factors” beginning on page 10 of this prospectus.
Neither the SEC nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
Per Share | Total | |||||||
Initial public offering price | $ | 5 | $ | 5 | ||||
Underwriting discounts(1) | $ | 0.325 | $ | 731,250 | ||||
Proceeds, before expenses, to us(2) | $ | 4.675 | $ | 10,518,750 |
(1) | An underwriting discount equal to 6.5% of the per share offering price will be provided to underwriters. See “Underwriting” in this prospectus for more information regarding our arrangements with the underwriters. |
(2) | The total estimated expenses related to this Offering are set forth in the section entitled “Underwriting – Discounts, Commissions and Expenses” beginning on page 102 of this prospectus. |
We expect our total cash expenses for this Offering, including cash expenses payable to Dominari Securities LLC (“Dominari”), as representative of the underwriters (the “Representative”) for their advisory fee, out-of-pocket expenses and non-accountable expenses allowance to be approximately $410,000, exclusive of the above underwriting discounts. In addition, we will pay additional items of value in connection with this Offering that are viewed by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, or FINRA, as underwriting compensation. These payments will further reduce proceeds available to us before expenses. See “Underwriting.”
This Offering is being conducted on a firm commitment basis. The underwriters are obligated to take and pay for all of the shares if any such shares are taken. We have granted the underwriters an option for a period of 45 days after the closing of this Offering to purchase up to 337,500 shares, or 15% of the total number of our Ordinary Shares to be offered by us pursuant to this Offering (excluding shares subject to this option), solely for the purpose of covering over-allotments, at the initial public offering price less the underwriting discount. If the underwriters exercise the over-allotment option in full, the total underwriting discounts payable will be approximately $840,938 based on an assumed offering price of $5.0 per Ordinary Share, and the total gross proceeds to us, before underwriting discounts and expenses, will be $12.9 million. If we complete this Offering, net proceeds will be delivered to us on the closing date.
The underwriters expect to deliver the Ordinary Shares against payment as set forth under “Underwriting”, on or about , 2024.
The date of this prospectus is , 2024.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
We and the underwriters have not authorized anyone to provide any information or to make any representations other than those contained in this prospectus or in any free writing prospectuses prepared by us or on our behalf or to which we have referred you. We take no responsibility for, and can provide no assurance as to the reliability of, any other information that others may give you. This prospectus is an offer to sell only the shares offered hereby, but only under circumstances and in jurisdictions where it is lawful to do so. We are not making an offer to sell these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted or where the person making the offer or sale is not qualified to do so or to any person to whom it is not permitted to make such offer or sale. The information contained in this prospectus is current only as of the date on the front cover page of the prospectus. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since that date.
i |
CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This prospectus includes statements that express Diginex Limited’s opinions, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or projections regarding future events or future results and therefore are, or may be deemed to be, “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”). These forward-looking statements can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “believes,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “seeks,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “may,” “will” or “should” or, in each case, their negative or other variations or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements include all matters that are not historical facts. They appear in a number of places throughout this prospectus and include statements regarding our intentions, beliefs or current expectations concerning, among other things, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, prospects, growth, strategies and the markets in which the Company operates. Such forward-looking statements are based on available current market material and management’s expectations, beliefs and forecasts concerning future events impacting Diginex Limited. You are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, as well as assumptions, which, if they were to ever materialize or prove incorrect, could cause the results of Diginex Limited to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Potential risks and uncertainties include those generally set forth under “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this prospectus, including without limitation:
● | expectations regarding our strategies and future financial performance, including our future business plans or objectives, prospective performance and opportunities, and competitors, revenues, customer acquisition and retention, products and services, pricing, marketing plans, operating expenses, market trends, liquidity, cash flows and uses of cash, capital expenditures, and our ability to maintain access to content and manage partnerships, and to invest in growth initiatives and pursue acquisition opportunities; | |
● | adverse effects to our financial condition and results of operations due to public health issues, including epidemics or pandemics such as COVID-19; | |
● | adverse effects to our financial condition and results of operations due to global events, including the ongoing conflict between Russia/Ukraine and Israel/Gaza; | |
● | changes and uncertainties related to the laws and regulations of the PRC; | |
● | the Chinese government’s potential intervention or influence over our current and future operations in Hong Kong; | |
● | our future financial performance, including our expectations regarding our net revenue, operating expenses, and our ability to achieve and maintain future profitability; | |
● | our business lines and our ability to effectively manage our growth; | |
● | anticipated trends, growth rates, and challenges in our business, and in the markets in which we operate; | |
● | market acceptance of our products and services; | |
● | beliefs and objectives for future operations; | |
● | our ability to maintain, expand, and further penetrate our existing customer base; | |
● | our ability to develop new products and services and grow our business in response to changing technologies, customer demand, and competitive pressures; | |
● | our expectations concerning relationships with third parties; | |
● | our ability to maintain, protect, and enhance our intellectual property; | |
● | our ability to continue to expand internationally; | |
● | our ability to operate each of our business lines effectively; | |
● | the effects of increased competition in our markets and our ability to compete effectively; | |
● | future acquisitions of or investments in complementary companies, products, services, or technologies and our ability to successfully integrate such companies or assets; | |
● | our ability to stay in compliance with laws and regulations that currently apply or become applicable to our business both in the United States and internationally; | |
● | economic and industry trends, projected growth, or trend analysis; | |
● | trends in revenue, cost of revenue, and gross margin; | |
● | trends in operating expenses, including technology and development expenses, sales and marketing expenses, and general and administrative expenses, and expectations regarding these expenses as a percentage of revenue; and | |
● | increased requirements and expenses associated with being a public company. |
Readers are urged to carefully review and consider the various disclosures made by us in this prospectus. This filing attempt to advise interested parties of the risks and factors that may affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and prospects. The forward-looking statements made in this prospectus speak only as of the date hereof and we disclaim any obligation, except as required by law, to provide updates, revisions or amendments to any forward-looking statements to reflect changes in our expectations or future events.
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Except as otherwise indicated by the context and for purposes of this prospectus only, references in this prospectus to:
● | “Advisory” is assisting companies define and implement their ESG strategies; | |
● | “Chardan” means Chardan Capital Markets LLC’ | |
● | “Companies Act” means the Companies Act (As Revised) of the Cayman Islands; | |
● | “Customization” is developing bespoke solutions for clients onto of ESG Entity Reporting or Lumen | |
● | “Diginex Limited” or the “Company” means Diginex Limited, an exempted company with limited liability incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands; | |
● | “Diginex Services” means Diginex Services Limited, a direct subsidiary of DSL, incorporated in the United Kingdom; | |
● | “Diginex USA” means Diginex USA LLC, a direct subsidiary of DSL, incorporated in Delaware, USA | |
● | “diginexESG” is end to end reporting from topic discovery, data collection to collaborative report publishing; | |
● | “diginexESG Entity Reporting” is advanced reporting across multiple entities with data comparison and aggregation; | |
● | “diginexLUMEN” is democratizing supply chain risk assessment and monitoring; | |
● | “diginexApprise” gives workers a voice in supply chain due diligence, proving companies with reliable insights for their risk assessment; | |
● | “diginexPartners” is the creation of customized development and /or white label solutions, also referred to as “Customization”; | |
● | “Dominari” means Dominari Securities LLC | |
● | “DSL” means Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited, a Hong Kong corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries; | |
● | “ESG” means Environmental, Social, and Governance. ESG is a framework that helps stakeholders understand how an organization is managing risks and opportunities related to environmental, social and governance criteria; | |
● | “Exchange” means the share exchange contemplated by the Share Exchange Agreement; | |
● | “GHG protocol” is Greenhouse Gas Protocol which provides standards, guidance, tools and training to measure and manage climate warming emissions; | |
● | “Group” means Diginex Limited and its subsidiaries; | |
● | “Licensed software sales” is the sale of diginexESG and/or diginexLUMEN on 12 month recurring subscription agreements; | |
● | “Managed Services” is the collection of data from suppliers on behalf of clients to aid the full visibility of results from supply chain due diligence | |
● | “Memorandum and Articles” is to the Company’s memorandum and articles of association; | |
● | “Nasdaq” means the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC; | |
● | “Offering” means Diginex Limited’s initial public offering of 2,250,000 Ordinary Shares as described in this registration statement on Form F-1; | |
● | “Ordinary Shares” means the ordinary shares of Diginex Limited, with par value of $0.00005 per share; | |
● | “PRC” mean The Peoples Republic of China, including Hong Kong and Macau. Hong Kong is a special administrative region of PRC and operates under a different legal system to the rest of the PRC. However, all legal and operational risks associated with having operations in the PRC may also apply to operations in Hong Kong; | |
● | “Preferred Shares” means the preferred shares of Diginex Limited, with par value of US$0.00005 per share; | |
● | “private placement warrants” or “Warrants” means the warrants issued to certain persons pursuant to certain securities purchase agreements, each exercisable for one Ordinary Share; | |
● | “private placement warrant shares” means the Ordinary Shares to be issued upon exercise of the private placement warrants; | |
● | “Restructuring” means the consummation of the transaction contemplated by the Exchange and the Ancillary Agreements resulting in DSL becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited and involving the (i) transfer of shares of DSL from its then shareholders to the Company in consideration for the issuance of new shares of the Company to such shareholders pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Share Exchange Agreement, (ii) issuance of new convertible loan notes to certain DSL shareholders in consideration for the cancellation of the then existing convertible loan notes issued by DSL, (iii) granting certain share options under the new share option plan that was adopted by Diginex Limited to the holders of the unexercised share options granted by DSL, in consideration for the cancellation of the DSL options held by such holders and (iv) granting certain warrants to purchase Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited to the holders of the then existing warrants to purchase ordinary shares of DSL, in consideration for the cancellation of the DSL warrants. | |
● | “RVL Warrants” means warrants issued to Rhino Ventures Limited on completion of a successful IPO | |
● | “Scope 1, 2 and 3 carbon footprint” is a way of categorizing the different kinds of carbon emissions a company creates from its own operations, and its wider value chain | |
● | “Selling Shareholders” means existing shareholders of the Company that are selling their Ordinary Shares pursuant to the Resale Prospectus | |
● | “Share Exchange Agreement” means the written agreement dated as of July 15, 2024 entered into by and among DSL, the then shareholders of DSL and Diginex Limited, pursuant to which the then existing shareholders of DSL transferred all of their shares in DSL to Diginex Limited, in exchange for Diginex Limited’s issuance of its new shares to such shareholders. Upon the consummation of the Share Exchange Agreement, DSL became a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited, and the existing shareholders of DSL became shareholders of Diginex Limited | |
● | “Share Subdivision” means the authorized share capital of the Company became US$50,000 divided into 960,000,000 Ordinary Shares of US$0.00005 par value each and 40,000 Preferred Shares of US$0.00005 par value each. | |
● | “we,” “us” and “our” refers to Diginex Limited and its subsidiaries. |
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This summary highlights selected information and does not contain all of the information that is important to you. This summary is qualified in its entirety by the more detailed information included in this prospectus. Before making your investment decision with respect to our securities, you should carefully read this entire prospectus, any applicable prospectus supplement and the documents referred to in “Where You Can Find More Information”.
Unless the context indicates otherwise, the terms the “Company,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to Diginex Limited and its subsidiaries, after giving effect to the Restructuring described elsewhere in this prospectus whereby Diginex Limited owns DSL. “DSL” refers to Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited, a Hong Kong corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries.
The Company
Current Business Lines
DSL is the wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited. Accordingly, Diginex Limited owns 100% of DSL and all of DSL’s business lines and subsidiaries.
DSL is an impact technology business that helps organizations to address the some of the most pressing Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”), climate and sustainability issues, utilizing blockchain, machine learning and data analysis technology to lead change and increase transparency in corporate social responsibility and climate action. Our products and services solutions enable companies to collect, evaluate and share sustainability data through easy-to-use software. The Group’s principal executive office is in Hong Kong where the CEO, CFO and CTO are based. The Hong Kong office is in a co-working shared space facility with 9 seats and the Hong Kong based employees operate under a hybrid model as they work both from the office and from home with the majority of working hours spent working from home. There is also an executive office in Monaco that is used by the Chairman and COO. DSL has subsidiaries in the United Kingdom and United States, however the subsidiary in the United States is inactive. DSL also outsources a component of IT development and maintenance support to engineers in Vietnam.
DSL has built several accessible, affordable and intelligent products to help democratize sustainability and offers multiple supporting services to complement the product suite.
DSL’s suite of products includes the following:
digninexESG: is an accredited Hong Kong Monetary Authority award winning cloud based ESG platform that offers end to end reporting from topic discovery, data collection to collaborative report publishing. Our diginexESG platform is ISO-27001 Certified (an international standard to manage information security), official partner of Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), World Economic Forum and signatory of the United Nations Principles of Responsible Investment (UN PRI).
The diginexESG platform guides companies through the entire ESG journey; from materiality assessment & stakeholder engagement, framework & indicator selection, the data collection and collaboration process, report creation, validation and ultimately report publishing. By leveraging machine learning and data analytics, diginexESG is able to drive material efficiencies in the reporting process, and the blockchain-enabled audit trail, whereby a record of each data activity is created and stored on a blockchain, provides greater transparency in the data thus increasing its value. Originally targeted specially at Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) around the world who are new to ESG reporting and lack the budget or bandwidth to engage with traditional and often expensive consultants, diginexESG has increased its feature set to include functionality that also targets larger companies with more complex organizational structures. diginexESG has also been adopted by global commercial banks like HSBC to help engage with their diverse customer base at scale.
diginexLUMEN: allows companies to execute comprehensive supply chain risk assessments about working conditions within the supply chain. Supplier information is validated against worker feedback and automated risk calculations enables companies to prioritize issues for mitigation and prevention of adverse impacts and improvement efforts.
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diginexLUMEN focuses on broad data collection through complex inter-jurisdictional supply chains with a specific focus on social governance issues such as forced labor due diligence, gender risk and child labor risk. Through the collection of data from suppliers and validation by workers, diginexLUMEN relies on proprietary algorithms to generate risk scores to help companies identify which parts of their supply chain require greater scrutiny. The platform then auto-generates corrective action plans which allow the brands and suppliers to work together to remedy potentially problematic areas and reduce the risk score.
diginexAPPRISE: is a multilingual application that collects standardized, actionable data related to working conditions directly from workers in global supply chains. Through tailored question sets, companies can deploy surveys directly to workers in their supply chain on a variety of topics such as responsible recruitment, gender equality and pulse check living and working conditions. The worker voice tool was initially developed by the United Nations University Institute in Macau (UNU-IIST) in partnership with The Mekong Club – an organization working with the private sector to bring about sustainable practices against modern slavery, and was acquired by DSL on December 14, 2021.
diginexAPPRISE is available both as a standalone tool and also fully integrated into diginexLUMEN.
diginexCLIMATE: is a proprietary carbon footprint calculator based on the GHG protocols that is currently available as an integrated part of the diginexESG platform. This allows companies to seamlessly calculate their Scope 1, 2 and 3 carbon footprint as part of their overall ESG reporting journey. Scope 1 are those direct emissions that are owned or controlled by a company, whereas scopes 2 and 3 indirect emissions are the result of the activities of the company but occur from sources not owned or controlled by it.
DSL also offers the following complementary services:
diginexADVISORY: is a service offered by DSL as a complement to the suite of DSL software license sales. diginexADVISORY provides clients strategy and advisory support at every stage of the sustainability journey, including assurance solutions for credible reporting. We also offer custom framework creation for clients who need more complex reporting templates or who want to set a benchmark for others in their industry. As part of diginexADVISORY we also develop and run one-off or programmatic training sessions covering a range of topics from a general introduction to ESG to complex carbon accounting and emissions.
diginexPARTNERS: is a service whereby DSL develops white label versions of both diginexESG and diginexLUMEN for companies who then want to run either diginexESG or diginexLUMEN as an extension of their own service offering. This service often requires custom technology work up front for our clients that generates initial revenue as well as ongoing service and maintenance licenses which generate ongoing recurring revenue.
In addition, DSL develops custom software platforms as part of a project consortiums for organizations like the United States Department of State, United States Department of Labor, and the United Nations.
diginexMANAGEDSERVICES: is service to be offered by DSL to provide oversight and support to clients in operationalizing the roll out of our software products within their organizational structure or supplier base. This service can include training and education, onboarding, data collection and analysis, as well as general on-going support. We will be offering this kind of vertical integration as a service from 2024 onwards and expect it to become an important part of our overall product and service offering.
As of June, 2024, DSL has a current headcount of 30, among which 21 are employees in Hong Kong and United Kingdom and 9 are contractors based in France, Germany, Spain, USA, Canada, Dubai, Mexico and Australia.
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Foreign Private Issuer Status
We are a foreign private issuer within the meaning of the rules under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (which we refer to as the Exchange Act). The Company is a foreign private issuer as less than 50% of the outstanding voting shares will be held by US residents. As such, we are exempt from certain provisions applicable to United States domestic public companies. For example:
● | we are not required to provide as many Exchange Act reports, or as frequently, as a domestic public company; | |
● | for interim reporting, we are permitted to comply solely with our home country requirements, which are less rigorous than the rules that apply to domestic public companies; | |
● | we are not required to provide the same level of disclosure on certain issues, such as executive compensation; | |
● | we are exempt from provisions of Regulation FD aimed at preventing issuers from making selective disclosures of material information; | |
● | we are not required to comply with the sections of the Exchange Act regulating the solicitation of proxies, consents or authorizations in respect of a security registered under the Exchange Act; and | |
● | we are not required to comply with Section 16 of the Exchange Act requiring insiders to file public reports of their share ownership and trading activities and establishing insider liability for profits realized from any “short-swing” trading transaction. |
Under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5615(a)(3)(A), a foreign private issuer may, in general, follow its home country corporate governance practices in lieu of some of the Nasdaq corporate governance requirements, set forth in the Nasdaq Marketplace Rule 5600 Series (with certain exceptions not relevant here). Diginex Limited has elected to be exempt from the requirement in Nasdaq Marketplace Rule 5635(d) which sets forth the circumstances under which shareholder approval is required prior to an issuance of securities, other than in a public offering, equal to 20% or more of the voting power outstanding at a price less than the lower of: (i) the Nasdaq Official Closing Price (as reflected on Nasdaq.com) immediately preceding the signing of the binding agreement; or (ii) the average Nasdaq Official Closing Price of the common stock (as reflected on Nasdaq.com) for the five trading days immediately preceding the signing of the binding agreement.
Emerging Growth Company Status
We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act (or JOBS Act), and we are eligible to take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting and financial disclosure requirements that are applicable to other public companies, that are not emerging growth companies, including, but not limited to, (1) presenting only two years of audited financial statements and only two years of related management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations in this prospectus, (2) not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”), (3) reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements, and (4) exemptions from the requirements of holding a non-binding advisory vote on executive compensation and shareholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. We intend to take advantage of these exemptions, and investors might find investing in our Ordinary Shares less attractive.
In addition, Section 107 of the JOBS Act also provides that an emerging growth company can take advantage of the extended transition period provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (which we refer to as the Securities Act), for complying with new or revised accounting standards. As a result, an emerging growth company can delay the adoption of certain accounting standards until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies, and we intend to take advantage of this extended transaction period.
We could remain an emerging growth company for up to five years, or until the earliest of (1) the last day of the first fiscal year in which our annual gross revenues exceed $1.235 billion, (2) the date that we become a “large accelerated filer” as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act, which would occur if the market value of our Ordinary Shares that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter and we have been publicly reporting for at least 12 months, or (3) the date on which we have issued more than $1 billion in non-convertible debt during the preceding three-year period.
Our Corporate Structure
Diginex Limited is a Cayman Islands exempted company, incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands on January 26, 2024. Upon incorporation, one (1) ordinary share of Diginex Limited was issued to Rhino Ventures Limited. On July 15, 2024, Diginex Limited and Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited (“DSL”) completed a restructuring pursuant to a share exchange agreement (the “Share Exchange Agreement”), whereby the then existing shareholders of DSL (the “Original Shareholders”) transferred all of their shares in DSL to Diginex Limited, in consideration for Diginex Limited’s issuance of substantially the same securities to such shareholders in exchange for the securities of DSL held by Original Shareholders (the “Exchange”). Prior to the Exchange there were 16,756 ordinary shares of DSL issued and outstanding, 3,151 preferred shares of DSL issued and outstanding and 10,172 warrants of DSL issued and outstanding. In the Exchange, each of the securities of DSL were exchanged for substantially the same securities of Diginex Limited at an exchange ratio of one (1) ordinary share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited , one (1) preferred share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Preferred Shares of Diginex Limited and one (1) warrant of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) warrants of Diginex Limited.
Prior to the Exchange on May 28, 2023, DSL agreed to an $8,000,000 share subscription agreement with Rhino Ventures Limited and on September 28, 2023 executed a subscription agreement (the “RVL Subscription Agreement”). Pursuant to the RVL Subscription Agreement, DSL issued Rhino Ventures Limited 5,086 ordinary shares and 10,172 warrants in exchange for $8.0 million. The warrants will be exercisable for ordinary shares of DSL for a period of three years from the date they are issued and shall be exercisable at a per warrant price of US$2,512. Post the completion of the Restructuring and Share Subdivision (as defined below), the number of warrants of Diginex Limited issued to Rhino Ventures Limited was adjusted to 4,170,520 from 10,172 with an adjusted price per warrant of US$6.13. The warrants, if fully exercised, will result in the issuance of such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 51% of the total issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of the warrants being exercised. This will be prorated for partial exercise of warrants. Rhino Ventures Limited paid the subscription price by the payment of $6.1 million in cash and the forgiveness of $1.9 million of debt due to Rhino Ventures Limited. The RVL Subscription Agreement also activated an anti-dilution clause in the Articles of Association of DSL which resulted in HBM IV, Inc. being issued 151 preferred shares of DSL for zero consideration. This increased HBM IV, Inc.’s holding to 3,151 preferred shares of DSL.
In connection with the Exchange, Diginex Limited and security holders of DSL consummated the following transactions (the “Ancillary Transactions”): (i) Diginex Limited issued $4.35 million new convertible loan notes to certain Original Shareholders in consideration for the cancellation of the then existing convertible loan notes issued by DSL and held by such Original Shareholders; (ii) Diginex Limited granted certain share options under the new share option plan that was adopted by Diginex Limited to the holders of the unexercised share options granted by DSL (the “Original Share Options”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Share Options held by such holders. At time of the Exchange there were 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting and (iii) Diginex Limited granted certain warrants to purchase Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited to the holders of the then existing warrants to purchase ordinary shares of DSL (the “Original Warrants”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Warrants held by such holders. The convertible loan notes will automatically convert into Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited upon the effectiveness of this registration statement and whilst there is no automatic vesting of any unvested share options upon completion of this Offering the board of directors, at their discretion, do have the ability to accelerate vesting at any point. At the time of this registration statement there was no confirmation if the board of directors will accelerate vesting. The fair value of all unvested ESOP as of the date of this registration statement is $1.8 million of which $0.2 million was recognized in the combined financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2024.
Accordingly, upon consummation of the Exchange and the Ancillary Transactions (collectively the “Restructuring”), DSL became a wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited, and the prior shareholders of DSL became shareholders of Diginex Limited. The remaining DSL security holders became security holders of Diginex Limited, in that they held Diginex Limited convertible loan notes, share options and warrants. Following, the closing of the Restructuring there is 6,869,961 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited issued and outstanding, 1,291,910 preferred shares of Diginex Limited issued and outstanding, 4,179,520 warrants issued and outstanding, $4.35 million new convertible loan notes issued and outstanding and 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting.
Following the Restructuring, on July 26, 2024, the Company completed a share subdivision (the “Share Subdivision”) such that, the authorized share capital of the Company was revised to be US$50,000 divided into 960,000,000 Ordinary Shares of US$0.00005 par value each and 40,000,000 preferred shares (the “Preferred Shares”), par value US$0.00005 per share. Prior to the Share Subdivision there were 6,869,961 ordinary shares and 1,291,910 preferred shares issued and outstanding, and after the Share Subdivision there are 13,739,922 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding.
During the Restructuring, a $1 million loan due from DSL to a related company, Diginex Holdings Limited, a company controlled by Rhino Ventures Limited, was converted into a $1 million convertible loan note of which Rhino Ventures Limited holds $517,535 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note and Working Capital Innovation Fund II L.P. holds $482,465 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note. The loan between DSL and Diginex Holdings Limited charged interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. The terms of the new convertible loan notes also charge interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. This $1 million convertible loan note forms part of the $4.35 million loan notes issued by Diginex Limited post the Restructuring.
On August 6, 2024 certain Employee Share Option Plan (“ESOP”) holders exercised their options and converted their options into Ordinary Shares. 501,840 employee share options were converted into 1,003,680 Ordinary Shares whilst 109,470 employee share options lapsed without being exercised. In addition, 368,826 employee share options were issued on July 31, 2024 and on August 21, 2024 employee share options were issued to 0.5% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting. The remaining employee share options as at the time of this registration statement are 41,945 vested but not exercised, 368,826 unvested employee share options and unvested employee share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.7% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting. Prior to the exercise of 501,840 options on August 6, 2024 there were 13,739,922 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding, and after such exercise of 501,840 options there are 14,743,602 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding.
Since 17th November 2023, Rhino Ventures Limited (“RVL”) issued convertible notes (the “Rhino Notes”) to various investors (each a “Rhino Investor” and collectively the “Rhino Investors”). In exchange for a loan from a Rhino Investor, RVL issued the Rhino Investor a Rhino Note. The Rhino Notes are convertible into DSL ordinary shares, or successor securities, that were owned by RVL at a conversion price of between USD2.78 to USD2.99. The Rhino Notes were convertible into RVL’s shares of DSL ordinary shares, or successor securities, (1) at the option of the Rhino Investor or (2) automatically upon F-1 either being effective or having received 2 or below comments. On August 7, 2024, six of the Rhino Investors elected to convert their Rhino Notes and RVL transferred an aggregate amount of 2,992,180 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited, the successor securities to the DSL ordinary shares, to the six Rhino Investors as follows: (i) Samantha Dolan received 327,189 Ordinary Shares, (ii) Christopher Lord received 418,200 Ordinary Shares, (iii) Dorota Menard received 400,980 Ordinary Shares, (iv) Gildo Plate received 294,380 Ordinary Shares and (v) Natalia Pelham received 1,049,600 Ordinary Shares and (vi) Benjamin Salter received 501,840 Ordinary Shares. Currently, there are eight Rhino Investors that hold Rhino Notes which are collectively convertible into an aggregate amount of 1,775,300 Ordinary Shares. RVL may issue additional Rhino Notes prior to the completion of this Offering. Other than Natalia Pelham, who is our Chairman’s wife, the Rhino Investors are not related to Mr. Pelham nor are they affiliates to the Company. As of the date of this registration statement RVL holds 9,333,242 Ordinary Shares, which does not include the reduction for RVL’s Ordinary Shares that will be issued upon the conversion of the outstanding Rhino Notes.
DSL, Diginex Limited’s wholly owned subsidiary, currently owes RVL $2.4 million under a loan agreement, dated September 29, 2024 (“RVL Loan”), and RVL will continue to fund Diginex Limited, via DSL through the completion of this Offering. Diginex Limited and RVL have agreed that RVL shall convert up to $3 million of the RVL Loan into Ordinary Shares upon the pricing of this Offering at the IPO offering price. Based on the assumed offering price of $5.00 per share, upon the pricing of the Offering, RVL’s loan, assuming loan balance of $3 million, the RVL Loan will convert into 600,000 Ordinary Shares. In exchange for RVL’s conversion of the RVL Loan into Ordinary Shares, Diginex Limited has agreed to provide RVL registration rights with respect to the Ordinary Shares that RVL receives upon conversion of the RVL Loan. The conversion of the RVL Loan is in addition to the conversion of the RVL convertible loan note with a principal balance of $517,535. The RVL Loan is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.9.
Following the consummation Restructuring, DSL became a wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited, and the former shareholders and securityholders of DSL became shareholders and securityholders of Diginex Limited. Following the Restructuring, Diginex Limited has subsidiaries located in Hong Kong, United Kingdom and United States of America. Diginex Limited is the sole owner of DSL, and through DSL the sole owner of (i) Diginex Services Limited, a corporation formed in the United Kingdom and (ii) Diginex USA LLC, a limited liability company formed in the State of Delaware.
The following chart summarizes our corporate legal structure and identifies our subsidiaries as of the date of this prospectus. For more details on our corporate history please refer to “Corporate History” appearing on page 32 of this prospectus.
Corporate Information
Our global headquarters and principal executive office is located at Smart-Space Fintech 2, Room 3, Unit 401-404 Core C, Cyberport, Telegraph Bay, Hong Kong. We also have an office at Avenue des Papalins a Monaco portant le numero D2/D3, Monaco which was used by the Chairman and Chief Operating Officer. Our registered office in the Cayman Islands is located at the offices of Ogier Global (Cayman) Limited, 89 Nexus Way, Camana Bay, Grand Cayman, KY1-9009, Cayman Islands.
Our website is http://www.diginex.com. Information contained on, or that can be accessed through, our websites is not part of, and shall not be incorporated by reference into, this prospectus. Our agent for service of process in the United States is Puglisi & Associates, 850 Library Avenue, Suite 2-4, Newark, Delaware 19711.
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Summary Risk Factors
Risk Related to Diginex Limited’s Business
● | Diginex Limited has a limited operating history and has incurred operating losses since its inception as it has been investing in the build out of its business lines, but they are not assured to be profitable. |
● | Cyberattacks and security breaches of our platform, or those impacting our customers or third parties, could adversely impact our brand and reputation and our business, operating results, and financial condition. |
● | One or more of Diginex Limited’s business lines may not produce sufficient cash flows to fund the capital requirements and expenditures necessary to run the business. |
● | ESG reporting technology may not be widely adopted on blockchain due to association with digital assets. |
● | Diginex Limited’s business lines may require technology certifications and qualifications that DSL does not currently have and that may be costly and time-consuming to obtain and, even if obtained, may subsequently be revoked. |
● | Our suit of products, services and initiatives, could fail to attract users and partners or generate revenue. |
● | Diginex Limited faces substantial litigation risks. |
● | Diginex Limited may not successfully develop technology to service its business lines. |
● | Cybersecurity incidents and other systems and technology problems may materially and adversely affect Diginex Limited. |
● | Diginex Limited may not be able to keep pace with rapidly changing technology and client requirements. |
● | Diginex Limited may face the risk that one or more competitors have or will obtain patents covering technology critical to the operation of one or more of its business lines and that it may infringe on the intellectual property rights of others. |
● | Managing different business lines could present conflicts of interest. |
● | Economic, political and market conditions in Hong Kong and worldwide, can adversely affect Diginex Limited’s business, results of operations and financial condition. |
● | Diginex Limited’s business lines and its acceptance of currencies other than the U.S. Dollar will subject it to currency risk. |
● | Risks related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the armed conflict between Israel and Hamas. |
● | Diginex Limited’s business may be adversely affected by natural disasters, pandemics, and other catastrophic events, and by man-made problems such as terrorism, that could disrupt the business operations, and the business continuity and disaster recovery plans may not adequately protect it from a serious disaster. |
● | DSL was previously owned by Eqonex Limited, until it was sold to Rhino Ventures Limited in May 2020. Eqonex Limited was focused on crypto currencies and went into liquidation in May 2022. There could be some legacy brand confusion which could impact the business of DSL and the value of Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares. |
4 |
Risks Related to Diginex Limited’s incorporation in the Cayman Islands
● | Because Diginex Limited is incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands, you may face difficulties in protecting your interests, and your ability to protect your rights through the U.S. Federal courts may be limited. |
● | It may be difficult to enforce a U.S. judgment against Diginex Limited or its directors and officers outside the United States, or to assert U.S. securities law claims outside of the United States. |
● | As a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands, Diginex Limited is permitted to adopt certain home country practices in relation to corporate governance matters that differ significantly from Nasdaq corporate governance listing standards; these practices may afford less protection to shareholders than they would enjoy if Diginex Limited complied fully with Nasdaq corporate governance listing standards. |
● | Provisions in the Diginex Limited’s governance documents may inhibit a takeover of Diginex Limited, which could limit the price investors might be willing to pay in the future for Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares and could entrench management. |
● | As a foreign private issuer, Diginex Limited will be exempt from a number of U.S. securities laws and rules promulgated thereunder and will be permitted to publicly disclose less information than U.S. public companies must. This may limit the information available to holders of the Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares. |
● | You may be unable to present proposals before annual general meetings or extraordinary general meetings not called by shareholders. |
● | Because Diginex Limited is a foreign private issuer and is exempt from certain Nasdaq corporate governance standards applicable to U.S. issuers, you will have less protection than you would have if it were a domestic issuer. |
● | We currently do not expect to pay dividends in the foreseeable future after this Offering and you must rely on price appreciation of our Ordinary Shares for return on your investment. |
Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong
Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited is incorporated under the laws of Hong Kong. Our principal executive offices and a portion of our global operations are located in Hong Kong. We do not operate in the PRC. We are not a mainland Chinese firm and neither us nor any of our subsidiaries is required to obtain permission from the government of the PRC to operate and issue our Ordinary Shares to foreign investors. DSL and our subsidiaries are not covered by permissions requirements from the CSRC, CAC, and no other PRC entity is required to approve of the company’s operations. We do not believe that we are required to obtain any approvals to offer securities to foreign investors. We have evaluated the laws and regulations of the PRC in coming to this conclusion. This conclusion is based on DSL being a Hong Kong company, with no operations in the PRC, and no VIE in our corporate structure. Since our only connection to the PRC is a physical location in Hong Kong, we have not relied on an opinion of counsel to reach this conclusion, relying instead on our internal analysis of the applicable PRC laws and regulations. If we inadvertently conclude that such approvals are not required, or applicable laws, regulations, or interpretations change and we are required to obtain approval in the future, obtaining such approvals could significantly limit or completely hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors and cause the value of our securities, including the Ordinary Shares, to significantly decline or be worthless. If approval by PRC authorities were required, it could result in a material change in our operations, including our ability to continue our current business, and accept foreign investments, and such adverse actions would likely cause the value of our securities to significantly decline or become worthless, make us subject to penalties and sanctions imposed by PRC regulatory agencies, and cause us to be delisted or prohibited from trading.
DSL primarily holds cash in bank accounts located in Hong Kong, we have no bank accounts or cash in PRC. There are no limitations on our ability to transfer cash from Hong Kong to our subsidiaries or investors.
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We face risks and uncertainties relating to doing business in Hong Kong including, but not limited to, the following:
● | The PRC government intervention into business activities by U.S.-listed, Chinese companies may indicate an expansion of the PRC’s authority that could negatively impact our existing and future operations in Hong Kong and PRC. For additional detail on this risk, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong – The PRC government intervention into business activities by U.S.-listed Chinese companies may indicate an expansion of the PRC’s authority that could negatively impact our existing and future operations in Hong Kong and PRC” starting on page 16 of this prospectus. | |
● | Our business, financial condition and results of operations, and/or the value of our Ordinary Shares or our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors may be materially and adversely affected if certain laws and regulations of the PRC become applicable to our company. | |
● | The laws and regulations in the PRC and Hong Kong are evolving, and their enactment timetable, interpretation and implementation involve significant uncertainties. To the extent any PRC laws and regulations (or the equivalent Hong Kong version) become applicable to us, we may be subject to the risks and uncertainties associated with the evolving laws and regulations in the PRC, their interpretation and implementation, and the legal and regulatory system in the PRC more generally, including with respect to the enforcement of laws and the possibility of changes of rules and regulations in Hong Kong. For additional detail on this risk, see “Risk Factors –Interpretation of PRC laws and the implementation of National Security Law in Hong Kong involve uncertainty.” starting on page 19 of this prospectus. | |
● | We expect that to the extent certain laws and regulations of the PRC become applicable to us, we may relocate our principal executive offices, employees, and operations out of Hong Kong. We may also be forced to dissolve our Hong Kong subsidiary and incorporate one or more new entities outside of Hong Kong. While we believe we may be able to relocate and reorganize, as an early-stage enterprise with limited revenue and that is not currently profitable, the costs and expenses related to relocating our offices, employees, and operations, as well as the legal and professional fees associated with reorganizing certain legal entities, would likely have a material impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. There can be no guarantee that Diginex Limited’s business lines, individually or together with our other business lines will be able to produce sufficient cash flows to fund the capital requirements and expenditures necessary to run the business and relocate.
For additional detail on these risks, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong – Our business, financial condition and results of operations, and/or the value of our Ordinary Shares or our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors may be materially and adversely affected if certain laws and regulations of the PRC become applicable to a company. In that case, we may be subject to the risks and uncertainties associated with the evolving laws and regulations in the PRC, their interpretation and implementation, and the legal and regulatory system in the PRC more generally, including with respect to the enforcement of laws and the possibility of changes of rules and regulations, and be forced to relocate our operations outside of Hong Kong” starting on page 16 of this prospectus. | |
● | Legislative actions by the PRC and the Hong Kong legislature have introduced risks and uncertainties concerning the Hong Kong legal system and the enforcement of the PRC’s laws in Hong Kong2. For additional detail on this risk, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong – The Hong Kong legal system embodies uncertainties which could limit the availability of legal protections” and “–There are political risks associated with conducting business in Hong Kong” starting on page 18 of this prospectus. | |
● | Rules and regulations in PRC, including some which may become applicable to Hong Kong, can change quickly with little advance notice, which could limit the legal protections available to the Company and its investors. For additional detail on this risk, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong – The Hong Kong legal system embodies uncertainties which could limit the availability of legal protections” starting on page 18 of this prospectus. |
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● | The PRC government may intervene or influence our operations in Hong Kong at any time or may exert more control over offerings conducted overseas and/or foreign investment in us. For additional detail on this risk, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong – The Hong Kong government may face further restrictive measures from PRC government in the future” starting on page 19 of this prospectus. | |
● | The interpretation of PRC laws and the implementation of the National Security Law in Hong Kong involve uncertainty. For additional detail on this risk, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong – Interpretation of PRC laws and the implementation of National Security Law in Hong Kong involve uncertainty” starting on page 19 of this prospectus. The Hong Kong authorities have announced their plan to enact further national security related legislation in 2024. The contents of these new laws are still unknown but they may have a further impact on foreign organizations and their operations in Hong Kong. | |
● | Our Ordinary Shares may be delisted or prohibited from being traded under the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act (“HFCAA”) if the PCAOB were unable to fully inspect our auditor. The delisting or the cessation of trading of our Ordinary Shares, or the threat of them being delisted or prohibited from being traded “over-the-counter,” may materially and adversely affect the value and/or liquidity of your investment. Additionally, if the PCAOB were unable to conduct full inspections of our auditor, it would deprive our investors of the benefits of such inspections. Our independent registered public accounting firm for the financial statements included in this prospectus, UHY LLP, is also not subject to the determinations announced by the PCAOB on December 16, 2021. UHY LLP are headquartered in Farmington Hills, Michigan. UHY LLP are not headquartered in the PRC or Hong Kong. The PCAOB currently has access to inspect the working papers of UHY LLP. As a result, we do not believe the HFCAA and related regulations will affect our company. If, however, our independent registered public accounting firm, or its affiliates, were denied, even temporarily, the ability to practice before the SEC and PCAOB, and it were determined that our financial statements or audit reports are not in compliance with the requirements of the U.S. Exchange Act, we could be at risk of delisting or become subject to other penalties that would adversely affect our ability to remain listed on the Nasdaq. For additional detail on this risk, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong – Our Ordinary Shares may be delisted or prohibited from being traded under the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act if the PCAOB were unable to fully inspect our auditor. The delisting or the cessation of trading of our Ordinary Shares, or the threat of them being delisted or prohibited from being traded, may materially and adversely affect the value and/or liquidity of your investment. Additionally, if the PCAOB were unable to conduct full inspections of our auditor, it would deprive our investors with the benefits of such inspections” starting on page 19 of this prospectus. |
Risks Related to Our Ordinary Shares and This Offering
We face risks and uncertainties related to our Ordinary Shares and this Offering, including, but not limited to:
● | Our controlling shareholders have a substantial influence over our company and his interests may not be aligned with the interests of our other shareholders; | |
● | The future sales of Ordinary Shares by existing shareholders, including the sales pursuant to the Resale Prospectus, may adversely affect the market price of our Ordinary Shares; | |
● | Because we are a foreign private issuer and are exempt from certain Nasdaq corporate governance standards applicable to U.S. issuers, you will have less protection than you would have if we were a domestic issuer; | |
● | Although as a foreign private issuer we are exempt from certain corporate governance standards applicable to U.S. issuers, if we cannot satisfy, or continue to satisfy, the initial listing requirements and other rules of Nasdaq, our securities may be delisted, which could negatively impact the price of our securities and your ability to sell them; | |
● | If we cease to qualify as a foreign private issuer, we would be required to comply fully with the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act applicable to U.S. domestic issuers, and we would incur significant additional legal, accounting and other expenses that we would not incur as a foreign private issuer; | |
● | We are an “emerging growth company” within the meaning of the Securities Act, and if we take advantage of certain exemptions from disclosure requirements available to emerging growth companies, this could make it more difficult to compare our performance with other public companies; | |
● | We will incur increased costs as a result of being a public company, particularly after we cease to qualify as an “emerging growth company”; | |
● | You may be unable to present proposals before annual general meetings or extraordinary general meetings not called by shareholders; | |
● | Our Ordinary Shares may be thinly traded and you may be unable to sell at or near ask prices or at all if you need to sell your shares to raise money or otherwise desire to liquidate your shares; | |
● | You will experience immediate and substantial dilution in the net tangible book value of Ordinary Shares purchased; | |
● | We do not intend to pay dividends for the foreseeable future; | |
● | Volatility in our Ordinary Shares price may subject us to securities litigation.; and | |
● | We have broad discretion in the use of the net proceeds from this Offering and may not use them effectively. |
If any or all of the foregoing were to occur, this could result in a material change in our Company’s operations and/or the value of our Ordinary Shares and/or significantly limit or completely hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors and cause the value of such securities to significantly decline or be worthless.
For additional detail on these and other risks, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong” starting on page 16 of this prospectus.
Additional Information
Our principal executive offices are located at Smart-Space Fintech 2, Room 3, Unit 401-404, Core C, Cyberport, Telegraph Bay, Hong Kong. Our telephone number is +852 3618 5881. Diginex Limited’s website is located at https://www.diginex.com. The information contained on, or that may be accessed through, our website is not part of, and is not incorporated into, this prospectus or the registration statement of which it forms a part.
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The Offering (1)
Issuer | Diginex Limited | |
Ordinary Shares offered by us | 2,250,000 Ordinary Shares. | |
Ordinary Shares outstanding before this Offering | 20,942,950 Ordinary Shares. | |
Ordinary Shares outstanding after this Offering (2) | 23,192,950 Ordinary Shares. | |
Price per Ordinary Share | We currently estimate that the initial public offering price will be between $4.00 and $6.00 per Ordinary Share. | |
Over-allotment | We have granted to the underwriter an option, exercise for 45 days after the closing of this Offering, to purchase up to 337,500 additional Ordinary Shares | |
Use of proceeds | We intend to use the net proceeds from this Offering for working capital and general corporate purposes. See “Use of Proceeds” for additional information. | |
Lock-up | All of our directors, officers and shareholders as of the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part have agreed with the underwriters, not to offer, issue, sell, contract to sell, encumber, grant any option for the sale of or otherwise dispose of any of our securities for a period of twelve months from the date of the closing of this Offering. Notwithstanding, these restrictions do not apply to the Selling Shareholders with respect to 2,992,180 Ordinary Shares held by them, and RVL with respect to (i) up to 600,000 Ordinary Shares to be received from Rhino Ventures Limited’s conversion of a loan in an amount of up to $3 million held by Diginex Limited at closing of the IPO, (ii) RVL Warrants, and (iii) 4,170,520 warrants of Diginex Limited held by RVL, except that the securities descried in clause (iii) will be subject to the restrictions described above in this paragraph for a period of ninety (90) days from the closing of this Offering.
We have also agreed, for a period of three (3) months from the closing of this Offering, not to offer, sell, or otherwise transfer of dispose of, directly or indirectly, any shares of the Company or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for shares of the Company, except the issuance by the Company of Ordinary Shares with respect to (i) up to 600,000 Ordinary Shares to be received from Rhino Ventures Limited’s conversion of a loan in an amount of up to $3 million held by Diginex Limited at closing of the IPO, (ii) RVL Warrants, and (iii) 4,170,520 warrants of Diginex Limited held by RVL, where the issuance descried in clause (iii) will be subject to the restrictions described above in this paragraph for a period of ninety (90) days from the closing of this Offering.
See “Shares Eligible for Future Sale” and “Underwriting” for more information. | |
Risk factors | Investment in the Ordinary Shares involves a high degree of risk. See “Risk Factors” in this prospectus beginning on page 10 for a discussion of factors and uncertainties that you should consider in evaluating an investment in our securities. | |
Listing: | We have applied to list our Ordinary Shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “DGNX”. | |
Transfer Agent | Continental Stock Transfer & Trust will serve as the transfer agent for our Ordinary Shares upon our initial public offering. |
(1) | Unless otherwise indicated, all information contained in this prospectus concerning the 23,192,950 Ordinary Shares that will be issued and outstanding after the consummation of this Offering assumes no exercise of any part of the underwriters’ over-allotment option, the conversion of all convertible loan notes and outstanding Preferred Shares into Ordinary Shares and includes up to 600,000 Ordinary Shares issuable to RVL based on the conversion of RVL’s $3 million loan upon the pricing of this Offering. | |
(2) | On the completion of the Offering the Company will have potentially dilutive instruments outstanding in the form of warrants, RVL Warrants and employee share options. Details of which can be found from page 70. |
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SELECTED HISTORICAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The following tables set forth, for the periods and dates indicated, certain selected historical financial information of Diginex Limited. You should read the following selected financial data in conjunction with “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and the audited financial statements and respective notes included elsewhere in this prospectus. Historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected in the future.
(USD) | For the Year ended March 31, |
|||||||
2024 | 2023 | |||||||
Operations Data: | ||||||||
Revenues | 1,299,538 | 1,625,763 | ||||||
Net loss | (4,871,387 | ) | (9,257,598 | ) |
As at March 31, |
||||||||
2024 | 2023 | |||||||
Combined Statements of Financial Position Data: | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 76,620 | 1,183,176 | ||||||
Total Assets | 974,417 | 1,588,573 | ||||||
Current liabilities | 14,267,453 | 3,201,879 | ||||||
Non-current liabilities | 9,717,088 | 17,870,534 | ||||||
Accumulated losses | 29,170,801 | 24,299,414 | ||||||
Total equity (deficit) | (23,010,124 | ) | (19,483,840 | ) |
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An investment in our securities involves a high degree of risk. Before you invest in our securities you should carefully consider those risk factors hereunder and those risk factors that may be included in any applicable prospectus supplement, together with all of the other information included in this prospectus and any prospectus supplement, in evaluating an investment in our securities. Our business, prospects, financial condition, or operating results could be harmed by any of these risks, as well as other risks not currently known to us or that we currently consider immaterial. The trading price of our securities could decline due to any of these risks, and, as a result, you may lose all or part of your investment. Before deciding whether to invest in our securities, you should also refer to the other information contained in this prospectus, including the section entitled “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”
Risks Related to Our Business and Industry
Diginex Limited and its subsidiaries have a limited operating history and have incurred operating losses since its inception as it has been investing in the build out of its business lines. There can be no assurance that Diginex Limited and its subsidiaries will be profitable.
Diginex Limited, DSL and its subsidiaries have a limited operating history on which an investor might evaluate its performance. It is therefore subject to many of the risks common to early-stage enterprises, including under-capitalization, cash shortages, limitations with respect to personnel and financing sources and lack of revenues, any of which could have a material adverse effect on DSL and may force it to reduce or curtail its operations. DSL, prior to the Restructuring, is not currently profitable and has incurred operating losses of $8.1 million and $7.3 million for the years ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 respectively. There is no assurance that Diginex Limited will achieve a return on shareholders’ investments and the likelihood of success must be considered in light of the early stage of its operations. Even if Diginex Limited accomplishes its objectives, it may not generate positive cash flows or profits.
Furthermore, Diginex Limited’s business lines and are not assured to be profitable. During the years ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, the DSL business generated revenue of $1.3 million and $1.6 million respectively. Diginex Limited may fail to develop its business lines or produce a return for its investors. It is possible that some of Diginex Limited’s business lines may be difficult to grow and it may become evident that a particular business line is not a productive use of capital or time. This could result in Diginex Limited modifying its business and focus away from such business lines.
From time to time, Diginex Limited has and may continue to launch new business lines, offer new products and services within existing business lines or undertake other strategic projects There are substantial risks and uncertainties associated with these efforts and Diginex Limited could invest significant capital and resources into such efforts. Initial timetables for the development and introduction of new business lines or new products or services and price and profitability targets may not be met. New products or services may need to be initially launched on a limited basis prior to their full launch. In addition, Diginex Limited’s revenues and costs may fluctuate because new business lines, products and services generally require startup costs while revenues take time to develop, which may adversely impact Diginex Limited’s results of operations.
If Diginex Limited is unable to successfully build its business while controlling expenses, its ability to continue in business could depend on the ability to raise sufficient additional capital, obtain sufficient financing and monetize assets. There can be no guarantee that Diginex Limited will be able to raise funding in sufficient quantity or at acceptable terms to fund the continued development of its business lines.
The occurrence of any of the foregoing risks would have a material adverse effect on Diginex Limited’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our revenue is dependent on the continued importance of ESG to businesses and governments. If adoption of requirements to report on ESG does not grow as expected our business, operating results, and financial condition could be adversely affected.
Our revenue is partially subscription based and revenue is determined by attracting new clients and by renewal of subscriptions. The supporting services such as Advisory are generally contingent on the client subscription levels for diginexESG and diginexLUMEN. As such, if these lines of business do not grow as expected, our business, operating results and financial condition could be adversely affected.
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There is a doubt about Diginex Limited ability to continue as a going concern.
Diginex Limited’s audited combined financial statements for the years ended March 31 2024 and 2023, were prepared assuming that Diginex Limited will continue as a going concern. Diginex Limited and its subsidiaries has suffered recurring operating losses since incorporation and these conditions raise doubt on Diginex Limited ability to continue as a going concern. The report of our independent registered public accounting firm on our financial statements for the years ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 included a paragraph on the emphasis of matter regarding going concern in order to draw prospective investors’ attention to the relevant note.
As discussed in Note 2 of the combined financial statements for the years ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, Diginex Limited’s ability to continue as a going concern will be dependent upon management’s plans and execution, which includes raising additional capital either through the proposed public offering or raising funds through alternative sources and reducing cash outflows by reducing costs. The founder has provided assurances that Rhino Ventures Limited, a company controlled by the founder, will continue to support Diginex Limited via the shareholder loans for the earlier of the next 12 months from the issuance date of the audited combined financial statements for the years ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 or the Form F-1 being declared effective. If Diginex Limited are unable to close this Offering, fail to raise capital from alternative sources, fail to receiving funding from Rhino Ventures Limited, or fail reduce cash outflows via reducing costs, then Diginex Limited may not have the ability to continue as a going concern.
Cyberattacks and security breaches of our platform, or those impacting our customers or third parties, could adversely impact our brand and reputation and our business, operating results, and financial condition.
Our business involves the collection, storage, processing, and transmission of confidential information, customer, employee, service provider, and other personal data. We have built our reputation on the premise that our platform offers customers a secure way to collect, hold and assess data to generate relevant ESG reporting, supply chain reports and impacts on climate, amongst others. As a result, any actual or perceived security breach of us or our third-party partners may, among others:
● | harm our reputation and brand; | |
● | result in our systems or services being unavailable and interrupt our operations; | |
● | result in improper disclosure of data and violations of applicable privacy and other laws; | |
● | result in significant regulatory scrutiny, investigations, fines, penalties, and other legal, regulatory, and financial exposure; | |
● | cause us to incur significant remediation costs; | |
● | reduce customer confidence in, or decreased use of, our products and services; | |
● | divert the attention of management from the operation of our business; | |
● | result in significant compensation or contractual penalties from us to our customers or third parties as a result of losses to them or claims by them; and | |
● | adversely affect our business and operating results. |
An increasing number of organizations, including large merchants, businesses, technology companies, and financial institutions, as well as government institutions, have disclosed breaches of their information security systems, some of which have involved sophisticated and highly targeted attacks, including on their websites, mobile applications, and infrastructure.
Attacks upon systems across a variety of industries are increasing in their frequency, persistence, and sophistication, and, in many cases, are being conducted by sophisticated, well-funded, and organized groups and individuals, including state actors. The techniques used to obtain unauthorized, improper, or illegal access to systems and information, disable or degrade services, or sabotage systems are constantly evolving, may be difficult to detect quickly, and often are not recognized or detected until after they have been launched against a target. These attacks may occur on our systems or those of our third-party service providers or partners. Certain types of cyberattacks could harm us even if our systems are left undisturbed. For example, attacks may be designed to deceive employees and service providers into releasing control of our systems to a hacker, while others may aim to introduce computer viruses or malware into our systems with a view to stealing confidential or proprietary data. Additionally, certain threats are designed to remain dormant or undetectable until launched against a target and we may not be able to implement adequate preventative measures.
Although we have developed systems and processes designed to protect the data we manage, prevent data loss and other security breaches, effectively respond to known and potential risks, and expect to continue to expend significant resources to bolster these protections, there can be no assurance that these security measures will provide absolute security or prevent breaches or attacks. We have experienced from time to time, and may experience in the future, breaches of our security measures due to human error, malfeasance, insider threats, system errors or vulnerabilities, or other irregularities. Unauthorized parties have attempted, and we expect that they will continue to attempt, to gain access to our systems and facilities, as well as those of our customers, partners, and third-party service providers, through various means, including hacking, social engineering, phishing, and attempting to fraudulently induce individuals (including employees, service providers, and our customers) into disclosing usernames, passwords, payment card information, or other sensitive information, which may in turn be used to access our information technology systems. Threats can come from a variety of sources, including criminal hackers, hacktivists, state-sponsored intrusions, industrial espionage, and insiders. Certain threat actors may be supported by significant financial and technological resources, making them even more sophisticated and difficult to detect. As a result, our costs and the resources we devote to protecting against these advanced threats and their consequences may continue to increase over time.
Although we maintain insurance coverage that we believe is adequate for the current stage of development of our business, it may be insufficient to protect us against all losses and costs stemming from system failures, security breaches, cyberattacks, and other types of unlawful activity, or any resulting disruptions from such events. Outages and disruptions of our platform, including any caused by cyberattacks, may harm our reputation and our business, operating results, and financial condition.
One or more of Diginex Limited’s business lines may not produce sufficient cash flows to fund the capital requirements and expenditures necessary to run the business.
There can be no guarantee that Diginex Limited’s business lines, individually or together with our other business lines will be able to produce sufficient cash flows to fund the capital requirements and expenditures necessary to run the business. Furthermore, Diginex Limited may not have or may not be able to obtain the technical skills or expertise needed to successfully or fully develop its business lines. While Diginex Limited has sought to retain and continues to competitively recruit experts, there may, from time to time, be a scarcity of management, technical, scientific, research and marketing personnel with appropriate training to develop and maintain development of its business lines. If Diginex Limited is not successful in its efforts to fully develop one or more of its business lines in a way that is compliant with customer requirements, and demonstrate to users the utility and value of such business, or there is not sufficient demand for the business line to be commercially viable, one or more business line may not be viable, which could have an adverse effect on the Diginex Limited’s overall business, financial condition and results of operations.
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Diginex Limited’s business lines may require technology certifications and qualifications that Diginex Limited does not currently have and that may be costly and time-consuming to obtain and, even if obtained, may subsequently be revoked.
Diginex Limited’s business lines may require technology certifications such as ISO27001. These qualifications and future maintenance to continue to be qualified are expensive and timing consuming to obtain and will occupy material management attention and is not certain to be successful. A failure or delay in receiving approval for a certification or qualification, or approval that is more limited in scope than initially requested, or subsequently limited or rescinded, could have a significant and negative effect on Diginex Limited, including the risk that a competitor gains an advantage.
Our suite of products, services and initiatives, could fail to attract users and partners or generate revenue.
Our suite of products, services and initiatives and changes to existing features, services and initiatives could fail to attract users, and partners or generate revenue. Our industry is subject to changes in technology, evolving customer needs and the introduction by competitors of new and enhanced offerings. We must constantly assess our business and determine whether we need to improve or re-allocate resources among our existing platform features and services or create new products (independently or in conjunction with third parties). Our ability to increase the size and engagement of our customers, attract partners and generate revenue will depend on those decisions. We may introduce significant changes to our existing platform and services or develop and introduce new products and services, which may not attract sufficient users or partners to generate revenue. If new or enhanced platform features or services fail to engage users, partners or generate sufficient revenue or operating profit to justify our investments, and our business and operating results could be adversely affected.
Diginex Limited may face substantial litigation risks.
Diginex Limited depends to a significant extent on its relationships with its clients and its reputation for integrity and high-caliber professional services. As a result, if a client is not satisfied with Diginex Limited’s services or if there are allegations of negligent actions, including allegations by any of Diginex Limited’s partners, whether the ultimate outcome is favorable or unfavorable to Diginex Limited, or if there is negative publicity and press speculation about Diginex Limited, whether or not valid, it may harm Diginex Limited’s reputation and adversely affect the business and operating results.
Responding to inquiries, investigations, audits, lawsuits and proceedings, regardless of the ultimate outcome of the matter, is time-consuming and expensive and can divert the attention of senior management. The outcome of such proceedings may be difficult to predict or estimate until late in the proceedings, which may last a number of years.
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Furthermore, while Diginex Limited maintains insurance for certain potential liabilities, such insurance does not cover all types and amounts of potential liabilities and is subject to various exclusions as well as caps on amounts refundable. Even if Diginex Limited believes a claim is covered by insurance, insurers may dispute Diginex Limited’s entitlement for a variety of different reasons, which may affect the timing and, if the insurers prevail, the amount of Diginex Limited’s recovery. Any claims or litigation, even if fully indemnified or insured, could damage Diginex Limited’s reputation and make it more difficult to compete effectively or to obtain adequate insurance in the future.
Diginex Limited may not successfully develop technology to service its business lines.
Diginex Limited relies heavily on the use of technology that it has created or plans to create by itself or with other third-parties. If Diginex Limited’s technology solutions do not work as planned, or do not meet or continue to meet the level of quality required by Diginex Limited or its clients, it may make transacting business less efficient, more expensive and potentially prone to errors, thereby reducing the positive effects Diginex Limited seeks to make available to its clients.
Diginex Limited may not be able to keep pace with rapidly changing technology and client requirements.
Diginex Limited’s success depends on its ability to develop new products and services for its business lines, while improving the performance and cost-effectiveness of its existing products and services, in each case in ways that address current and anticipated client requirements. Such success is dependent upon several factors, including functionality, competitive pricing and integration with existing and emerging technologies. New technologies could emerge that might enable Diginex Limited’s competitors to offer products and services with better combinations of price and performance, or that better address client requirements, than Diginex Limited’s products and services. Competitors may be able to respond more quickly and effectively than Diginex Limited can to new or changing opportunities, technologies, standards or client requirements.
Due to the significant lead time involved in bringing a new product or service to market, Diginex Limited is required to make a number of assumptions and estimates regarding the commercial feasibility of new products and services. As a result, it is possible that Diginex Limited may introduce a new product or service that uses technologies that have been displaced by the time of launch, addresses a market that no longer exists or is smaller than previously thought or otherwise is not competitive at the time of launch. The expenses or losses associated with an unsuccessful product or service development or launch, or a lack of market acceptance of Diginex Limited’s new products and services, could adversely affect Diginex Limited’s business, financial condition or results of operations.
Diginex Limited’s ability to attract new clients and increase revenue from existing clients also depends on its ability to deliver any enhanced or new products and services to its clients in a format where they can be easily and consistently deployed by most or all clients without significant client service. If Diginex Limited’s clients believe that deploying Diginex Limited’s products and services would be overly time-consuming, confusing or technically challenging, then Diginex Limited’s ability to grow its business would be substantially harmed.
Cybersecurity incidents and other systems and technology problems may materially and adversely affect Diginex Limited.
Cybersecurity incidents and cyber-attacks have been occurring globally at a more frequent and severe level and will likely continue to increase in frequency in the future. Incidents, which may occur through intentional or unintentional acts by individuals or groups having authorized or unauthorized access to Diginex Limited’s systems or Diginex Limited’s clients’ or counterparties’ information, all of which may include confidential information. These individuals or groups include employees, third-party service providers, customers and hackers. The information and technology systems used by Diginex Limited and its service providers are vulnerable to unauthorized access, damage or interruption from, among other things: hacking, ransomware, malware and other computer viruses; denial of service attacks; network failures; computer and telecommunication failures; phishing attacks; infiltration by unauthorized persons; fraud; security breaches; usage errors by their respective professionals; power outages; terrorism; and catastrophic events such as fires, tornadoes, floods, hurricanes and earthquakes. To date, Diginex Limited has only experienced phishing incidents, none of which have been material. While Diginex Limited will deploy a range of defenses, it is possible Diginex Limited could suffer an impact or disruption that could materially and adversely affect Diginex Limited. The security of the information and technology systems used by Diginex Limited and its service providers may continue to be subjected to cybersecurity threats that could result in material failures or disruptions in Diginex Limited’s business. If these systems are compromised, become inoperable for extended periods of time or cease to function properly, Diginex Limited or a service provider may have to make a significant investment to fix or replace them. Diginex Limited has and will continue to have access to sensitive, confidential information of clients, which makes the cybersecurity risks identified above more important than they may be to other companies.
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Concerns about Diginex Limited’s practices with regard to the collection use, disclosure, or safekeeping of confidential information and personal data, even if unfounded, could adversely affect its operating results. Furthermore, failures of Diginex Limited’s cybersecurity system could harm Diginex Limited’s reputation, subject it to legal claims and otherwise materially and adversely affect Diginex Limited’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
Diginex Limited may face the risk that one or more competitors have or will obtain patents covering technology critical to the operation of one or more of its business lines and that it may infringe on the intellectual property rights of others. Diginex Limited’s lack of protectable intellectual property rights may negatively affect the business of Diginex Limited.
If one or more other persons, companies or organizations has or obtains a valid patent covering technology critical to the operation of one or more of Diginex Limited’s business lines, there can be no guarantee that such an entity would be willing to license such technology at acceptable prices or at all, which could have a material adverse effect on Diginex Limited’s business, financial condition and results of operations. Moreover, if for any reason Diginex Limited were to fail to comply with its obligations under an applicable agreement, it may be unable to operate, which would also have a material adverse effect on Diginex Limited’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
Due to the fundamentally open-source nature of blockchain and other technology, Diginex Limited may not always be able to determine that it is using or accessing protected information or software. For example, there could be issued patents of which Diginex Limited is not aware that its products infringe. Moreover, patent applications are in some cases maintained in secrecy until patents are issued. The publication of discoveries in scientific or patent literature frequently occurs substantially later than the date on which the underlying discoveries were made and patent applications were filed. Because patents can take many years to issue, there may currently be pending applications of which Diginex Limited is unaware that may later result in issued patents that its products infringe.
Diginex Limited could expend significant resources defending against patent infringement and other intellectual property right claims, which could require it to divert resources away from operations. Any damages Diginex Limited is required to pay or injunctions against its continued use of such intellectual property in resolution of such claims may cause a material adverse effect to its business, financial condition and results of operations.
Accordingly, Diginex Limited’s lack of protectable intellectual property rights may negatively affect the business of Diginex Limited, if it is determined that Diginex Limited’s product offerings infringe upon the intellectual property rights or claims of others. A determination that Diginex Limited’s product offerings infringe upon the intellectual property rights or claims of others could restrict, limit or even prohibit Diginex Limited ability to offer and sell such infringing products. Such restriction, limitation or prohibition could reduce Diginex Limited’s revenue and/or earning and negatively affect the stock price of Diginex Limited.
Managing different business lines could present conflicts of interest.
Appropriately identifying and dealing with conflicts of interest is complex and difficult, and Diginex Limited’s reputation could be damaged and the willingness of clients to enter into transactions with Diginex Limited may be affected if Diginex Limited fails, or appears to fail, to identify, disclose and deal appropriately with conflicts of interest. In addition, potential or perceived conflicts could give rise to litigation. As a result, failures to appropriately identify and address potential conflicts of interest could materially adversely affect Diginex Limited’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
Economic, political and market conditions in Hong Kong and worldwide, can adversely affect Diginex Limited’s business, results of operations and financial condition.
Diginex Limited’s business is influenced by a range of factors that are beyond its control and that it has no comparative advantage in forecasting. These include, among others:
● | General economic and business conditions; | |
● | Overall demand for DSL’s products and services; and | |
● | General legal and political developments. |
Macroeconomic developments, including the impact of the Russian invasion of the Ukraine, the conflict between Israel and Hamas, evolving trade policies between the U.S. and international trade partners, including the People’s Republic of China (the “PRC”) and Hong Kong or the occurrence of similar events in other countries that lead to uncertainty or instability in economic, political or market conditions could negatively affect Diginex Limited’s business, operating results and financial conditions and/or any of its third-party service providers.
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The impact of global events, including the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, may also negatively impact Diginex Limited.
Furthermore, any general weakening of, and related declining confidence in, the global economy or the curtailment of government or corporate spending could cause potential clients to delay, decrease or cancel purchases of Diginex Limited’s products and services.
A material element of Diginex Limited’s operations is in Hong Kong. Hong Kong has been governed by the basic law, which guarantees a high degree of autonomy from the PRC in certain matters until 2047. If the PRC were to exert its authority to alter the economic, political or legal structures or the existing social policy of Hong Kong, investor and business confidence in Hong Kong could be negatively affected, which in turn could negatively affect markets and business performance and have an adverse effect on Diginex Limited. There is uncertainty as to the political, economic and social status of Hong Kong. Hong Kong’s evolving relationship with the PRC’s central government in Beijing has been a source of political unrest that has periodically resulted in large-scale protests, including those that occurred in 2019 in response to an extradition bill proposed by the Hong Kong government, which was subsequently waived. These protests created disruptions for businesses operating in Hong Kong and have negatively impacted the overall economy however, the frequency and intensity of protests have declined since the passing of the National Security Law.
Significant operations of Diginex Limited’s business are currently located in Hong Kong. It is possible that Diginex Limited may decide to relocate certain operations from Hong Kong to another location in the future. In doing so, it is also possible that Diginex may not be able to retain certain expert staff. If Diginex Limited loses the services of any member of management or other such key personnel as a result of relocating, it may not be able to find suitable or qualified replacements and may incur additional expenses to recruit and train new staff, which could materially disrupt Diginex Limited’s business and growth.
Diginex Limited’s business lines and its acceptance of currencies other than the U.S. Dollar will subject it to currency risk.
Diginex Limited’s financial statements are presented in U.S. dollars so it must translate non-U.S. dollar denominated revenues, income and expenses, as well as assets and liabilities, into U.S. dollars at exchange rates in effect during or at the end of each reporting period. These fluctuations may materially impact the translation of Diginex Limited’s non-U.S. results of operations and financial condition.
Furthermore, increases or decreases in the value of the currencies Diginex Limited operates with may affect its operating results and the value of its assets and liabilities. USD is the main currency for Diginex Limited but it also uses, to a lesser extent, Great British Pound, Hong Kong Dollar, Euro and Singapore Dollar.
Diginex Limited’s business may be adversely affected by natural disasters, pandemics, and other catastrophic events, and by man-made problems such as terrorism, that could disrupt the business operations, and the business continuity and disaster recovery plans may not adequately protect it from a serious disaster.
Natural disasters or other catastrophic events may also cause damage or disruption to operations, international commerce, and the global economy, and could have an adverse effect on business, operating results, and financial condition. Business operations are subject to interruption by natural disasters, fire, power shortages, and other events beyond Diginex Limited’s control. In addition, Diginex Limited’s global operations expose it to risks associated with public health crises, such as pandemics and epidemics, which could harm the business and cause operating results to suffer. For example, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted, and could continue to result, in difficulties or changes to customer support, or create operational or other challenges, any of which could adversely impact business and operating results. Further, acts of terrorism, labor activism or unrest, and other geo-political unrest could cause disruptions in the business or the businesses of partners or the economy as a whole. In the event of a natural disaster, including a major earthquake, blizzard, or hurricane, or a catastrophic event such as a fire, power loss, or telecommunications failure, Diginex Limited may be unable to continue operations and may endure system interruptions, reputational harm, delays in development of Diginex Limited’s platform(s), lengthy interruptions in service, breaches of data security, and loss of critical data, all of which could have an adverse effect on future operating results.
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Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong
The recent PRC government intervention into business activities by U.S.-listed Chinese companies may negatively impact our existing and future operations in Hong Kong.
Diginex Limited in incorporated in the Cayman Island but has a subsidiary, DSL, that is incorporated under the laws of Hong Kong. We are not a mainland Chinese firm and neither us nor any of our subsidiaries is required to obtain permission from the government of the People’s Republic of China (“PRC”) to operate and issue our Ordinary Shares to foreign investors. We do not operate in the PRC.
Recently, the Chinese government announced that it would increase supervision of mainland Chinese firms listed offshore. Under the new measures, PRC will improve regulation of cross-border data flows and security, police illegal activity in the securities market and punish fraudulent securities issuances, market manipulation and insider trading. PRC will also monitor sources of funding for securities investment and control leverage ratios. The Cyberspace Administration of China (“CAC”) has also opened a cybersecurity probe into several large U.S.-listed technology companies focusing on anti-monopoly and financial technology regulation and, more recently with the passage of the Data Security Law, how companies collect, store, process and transfer data. If we are subject to such a probe or if we are required to comply with stepped-up supervisory requirements, valuable time from our management and money may be expended in complying and/or responding to the probe and requirements, thus diverting valuable resources and attention away from our operations. This may, in turn, negatively impact our operations.
As a Hong Kong company that does not operate in the PRC, the laws and regulations of the PRC do not currently have any material impact on our business, financial condition or operation. However, because of the Company’s operations in Hong Kong and given the Chinese government’s significant oversight authority over the conduct of business in Hong Kong, there is always a risk that the Chinese government may, in the future, seek to affect operations of any company with any level of operations in PRC (including Hong Kong), including its ability to offer securities to investors, list its securities on a U.S. or other foreign exchange, conduct its business or accept foreign investment. In light of PRC’s recent expansion of authority in Hong Kong, there are risks and uncertainties which we cannot foresee for the time being, and rules and regulations in PRC can change quickly. The Chinese government may intervene or influence our current and future operations in Hong Kong and PRC at any time, or may exert more control over offerings conducted overseas and/or foreign investment in issuers likes ourselves.
If any or all of the foregoing were to occur, this could result in a material change in our Company’s operations and/or the value of our Ordinary Shares and/or significantly limit or completely hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors and cause the value of such securities to significantly decline or be worthless.
Our business, financial condition and results of operations, and/or the value of our Ordinary Shares or our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors may be materially and adversely affected if certain laws and regulations of the PRC become applicable to a company such as us. In that case, we may be subject to the risks and uncertainties associated with the evolving laws and regulations in the PRC, their interpretation and implementation, and the legal and regulatory system in the PRC more generally, including with respect to the enforcement of laws and the possibility of changes of rules and regulations, and be forced to relocate our operations outside of Hong Kong.
We do not operate in the PRC, we operate, in Hong Kong, a special administrative region of China, the laws and regulations of the PRC do not currently have any material impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We are not a mainland Chinese firm, and neither us nor any of our subsidiaries is required to obtain permission from the government of the PRC to operate and issue our Ordinary Shares to foreign investors. It is the opinion of our PRC counsel that Diginex Limited and DSL are not subject to the requirements of the CSRC or the CAC, and their operations are not subject to the review or approval of any other PRC governmental authority. If we inadvertently conclude that such approvals are not required, or applicable laws, regulations, or interpretations change and we are required to obtain approval in the future, obtaining such approvals could significantly limit or completely hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors and cause the value of our securities, including the Ordinary Shares, to significantly decline or be worthless. If approval by PRC authorities were required, it could result in a material change in our operations, including our ability to continue our current business, and accept foreign investments, and such adverse actions would likely cause the value of our securities to significantly decline or become worthless, make us subject to penalties and sanctions imposed by PRC regulatory agencies, and cause us to be delisted or prohibited from trading.
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If certain PRC laws and regulations, including existing laws and regulations and those enacted or promulgated in the future, were to become applicable to a company such as us in the future, the application of such laws and regulations may have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations and our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors, any of which may cause the value of our securities, including our Ordinary Shares, to significantly decline or become worthless. For example, if the PRC Data Security Law were to apply to our Hong Kong-based business, we could become subject to data security and privacy obligations, including the need to conduct a national security review of data activities that may affect the national security of the PRC, and be prohibited from providing data stored in Hong Kong to foreign judicial or law enforcement agencies without approval from relevant PRC regulatory authorities. Furthermore, if any law relating to the PCAOB access to auditor files were to apply to a company such as us or our auditor, the PCAOB may be unable to fully inspect our auditor, which may result in our securities, including our Ordinary Shares, being delisted or prohibited from being traded pursuant to the HFCAA and materially and adversely affect the value and/or liquidity of your investment
It is noted that relevant parts of the PRC government have made recent statements or recently taken regulatory actions related to data security, anti-monopoly and overseas listings of PRC businesses. For example, the PRC Data Security Law and the Measures for the Security Assessment of Outbound Data Transfer (the “Measures for the Security Assessment of Outbound Data Transfer”), relevant PRC government agencies have recently taken anti-trust enforcement action against certain PRC-based businesses. We understand such enforcement action was taken pursuant to the PRC Anti-Monopoly Law which applies to monopolistic activities in domestic economic activities in PRC and monopolistic activities outside PRC which eliminate or restrict market competition in PRC. In addition, on February 17, 2023, the CSRC promulgated Trial Administrative Measures of the Overseas Securities Offering and Listing by Domestic Companies and relevant supporting guidelines on regulating both direct and indirect (including through arrangements called VIEs) overseas offering and listing of PRC domestic companies’ securities through a filing-based regulatory regime, which became effected on March 31, 2023. In light of such developments, the SEC has imposed enhanced disclosure requirements on PRC-based companies seeking to register securities with the SEC. While, as our company currently does not have any operations in PRC, including any customer-facing business in PRC, and does not have a VIE structure, we believe that the statements or regulatory actions by the relevant parts of the PRC government, including statements relating to the PRC Data Security Law, the Measures for the Security Assessment of Outbound Data Transfer, the PRC Personal Information Protection Law and VIEs as well as the anti-monopoly enforcement actions, will not have any material adverse impact on our ability to conduct business, accept foreign investments, or list on a U.S. or other foreign exchange, there is no guarantee that this will continue to be the case or that the PRC government will not seek to intervene or influence our operations at any time. Should such statements or regulatory actions apply to a company such as us in the future, it would likely have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations, our ability to accept foreign investments and our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors on a U.S. or other international securities exchange, any of which may cause the value of our securities, including our Ordinary Shares, to significantly decline or become worthless.
While we cannot predict the extent of such impact if such events were to occur, we expect that to the extent certain laws and regulations of the PRC become applicable to us, we may relocate our principal executive offices, employees, and operations out of Hong Kong. We may also be forced to dissolve our Hong Kong subsidiary and incorporate one or more new entities outside of Hong Kong. While we believe we may be able to relocate and reorganize, as an early-stage enterprise with limited revenue and that is not currently profitable, the costs and expenses related to relocating our offices, employees, and operations, as well as the legal and professional fees associated with reorganizing certain legal entities, would likely have a material impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. There can be no guarantee that Diginex Limited’s business lines will be able to produce sufficient cash flows to fund the capital requirements and expenditures necessary to run the business and relocate.
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The laws and regulations in the PRC are evolving, and their enactment timetable, interpretation and implementation involve significant uncertainties. To the extent any PRC laws and regulations become applicable to us, we may be subject to the risks and uncertainties associated with the evolving laws and regulations in the PRC, their interpretation and implementation, and the legal and regulatory system in the PRC more generally, including with respect to the enforcement of laws and the possibility of changes of rules and regulations with little or no advance notice.
There are political risks associated with conducting business in Hong Kong.
During the period covered by the financial information incorporated by reference into and included in this prospectus, we have a substantial part of our operations in Hong Kong. Accordingly, our business operations and financial condition may be affected by political and legal developments in Hong Kong. Any adverse economic, social and/or political conditions, material social unrest, strike, riot, civil disturbance or disobedience, as well as significant natural disasters, may adversely affect the business operations of our Hong Kong entity. Hong Kong is a special administrative region of the PRC and the basic policies of the PRC regarding Hong Kong are reflected in the Basic Law, namely, Hong Kong’s constitutional document, which provides Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy and executive, legislative and independent judicial powers, including that of final adjudication under the principle of “one country, two systems”. However, there is no assurance that the PRC will not drive changes in the economic, political and legal environment in Hong Kong in the future. Since part of our operation is based in Hong Kong, any change of such political arrangements may pose immediate threat to the stability of the economy in Hong Kong, thereby directly and adversely affecting our results of operations and financial position.
Under the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the PRC, Hong Kong is exclusively in charge of its internal affairs and external relations, while the government of the PRC is responsible for its foreign affairs and defense. As a separate customs territory, Hong Kong maintains and develops relations with foreign states and regions. Based on certain recent developments, including the Law of the PRC on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region issued by the Standing Committee of the PRC National People’s Congress in June 2020, the U.S. State Department has indicated that the United States no longer considers Hong Kong to have significant autonomy from PRC. In 2020, President Trump signed an executive order and the Hong Kong Autonomy Act, or HKAA, to remove Hong Kong’s preferential trade status and to authorize the U.S. administration to impose blocking sanctions against individuals and entities who are determined to have materially contributed to the erosion of Hong Kong’s autonomy. The United States may impose the same tariffs and other trade restrictions on exports from Hong Kong that it places on goods from PRC. These and other recent actions may represent an escalation in political and trade tensions involving the U.S., PRC and Hong Kong, which could potentially harm our business.
Given the relatively small geographical size of Hong Kong, any such incidents may have a widespread effect on our business operations, which could in turn adversely and materially affect our business, results of operations and financial condition. It is difficult to predict the full impact of the HKAA on Hong Kong and companies with operations in Hong Kong. Furthermore, legislative or administrative actions in respect of PRC-U.S. relations could cause investor uncertainty for affected issuers, including us, and the market price of our Ordinary Shares could be adversely affected.
The Hong Kong legal system embodies uncertainties which could limit the availability of legal protections.
On January 18, 2019, the Supreme People’s Court and the Hong Kong SAR Government signed the Arrangement on Reciprocal Recognition and Enforcement of Judgments in Civil and Commercial Matters by the Courts of the Mainland and of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (“the New Arrangement”), which seeks to establish a mechanism with greater clarity and certainty for recognition and enforcement of judgments in wider range of civil and commercial matters between Hong Kong SAR and the PRC. The New Arrangement does not include the requirement for a choice of court agreement in writing by the parties. The New Arrangement will only take effect after the promulgation of a judicial interpretation by the Supreme People’s Court and the completion of the relevant legislative procedures in the Hong Kong SAR. On the Hong Kong side, the New Arrangement needs to be implemented through local laws. According to the Hong Kong government’s constitutional report on November 10, 2023, the Mainland Civil and Commercial Judgments (Mutual Enforcement) Ordinance (Chapter 645) and the Mainland Civil and Commercial Judgments (Mutual Enforcement) Rules will come into effect on January 29, 2024.
As one of the conditions for the handover of the sovereignty of Hong Kong to PRC, PRC accepted conditions such as Hong Kong’s Basic Law. The Basic Law ensured Hong Kong will retain its own currency (the Hong Kong Dollar), legal system, parliamentary system and people’s rights and freedom for fifty years from 1997. This agreement has given Hong Kong the freedom to function with a high degree of autonomy. The Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong is responsible for its own domestic affairs including, but not limited to, the judiciary and courts of last resort, immigration and customs, public finance, currencies and extradition. Hong Kong continues using the English common law system.
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However, if the PRC attempts to alter its agreement to allow Hong Kong to function autonomously, this could potentially impact Hong Kong’s common law legal system and may in turn bring about uncertainty in, for example, the enforcement of our contractual rights. This could, in turn, materially and adversely affect our business and operations. Additionally, intellectual property rights and confidentiality protections in Hong Kong may not be as effective as in the United States or other countries. Accordingly, we cannot predict the effect of future developments in the Hong Kong legal system, including the promulgation of new laws, changes to existing laws or the interpretation or enforcement thereof, or the preemption of local regulations by national laws. These uncertainties could limit the legal protections available to us, including our ability to enforce our agreements with our customers.
The Hong Kong government may face further restrictive measures from PRC government in the future.
The PRC government may intervene or influence our operations in Hong Kong at any time, or may exert more control over offerings conducted overseas and/or foreign investment in us. The PRC government has claimed in its official policy documents that it exercises ‘comprehensive jurisdiction’ over Hong Kong. We cannot assure you that the Hong Kong government will not be facing further restrictive measures from PRC’s government in the future. The PRC government’s further potential restrictive regulations and measures could increase our existing and future operating costs in adapting to these regulations and measures, limit our access to capital resources or even restrict our existing and future business operations, which could further adversely affect our business and prospects.
For example, The Mainland Judgments in Civil and Commercial Matters (Reciprocal Enforcement) Ordinance Cap. 645 has come into effect in Hong Kong on January 29, 2024 (the Mainland Judgments Ordinance). The Mainland Judgment Ordinance creates a new registration system whereby certain judgments issued by Mainland courts could be enforced in Hong Kong SAR. These judgments include civil and/or commercial judgments handed down by Mainland courts, and criminal judgments (insofar as it is confined to an order to pay a sum of money for compensation and/or damages). The Mainland Judgments Ordinance implements the Arrangement on Reciprocal Recognition and Enforcement of Judgments in Civil and Commercial Matters by the Courts of the PRC and Hong Kong SAR. The Supreme People’s Court of Mainland and the Hong Kong Government signed the above Arrangement on January 18, 2019.
The cumulative effects of the Mainland Judgments Ordinance are:
(i) it expedites the enforcement of Mainland civil and/or commercial judgments in Hong Kong. This includes both monetary or non-monetary orders. An opposing party must object within a short period of time. The objection must be strictly confined to the grounds as set out in the Mainland Judgments Ordinance,
(ii) criminal judgments which carry monetary compensation or damages orders are also enforceable in Hong Kong. A wide range of PRC legislations and administrative regulations give power to the Mainland courts to order for monetary compensation or damages in criminal cases. The Mainland criminal justice system is known for its very high conviction rate.
(iii) Hong Kong-based assets are now liable to be confiscated or seized by orders of the Hong Kong courts for the purposes of the execution of Mainland judgments.
On 8 March 2024, the Hong Kong SAR Government issued the Safeguarding National Security Bill (the “Bill”). The Bill as amended was then approved and passed at a full Legislative Council meeting on 19 March 2024. The Safeguarding National Security Ordinance became law and took effect from March 23, 2024. This law grants authorities broad powers to address perceived threats to national security, but its implementation and interpretation introduce significant uncertainty. See “– Interpretation of PRC laws and the implementation of National Security Law in Hong Kong involve uncertainty.”
Interpretation of PRC laws and the implementation of National Security Law in Hong Kong involve uncertainty.
Since 1979, the PRC government began to promulgate a comprehensive system of laws and regulations governing economic matters in general. The PRC legal system is a civil law system based on written statutes. Prior court decisions are encouraged to be used for reference, but it remains unclear to what extent the prior court decisions may impact the current court ruling as the encouragement policy is new and there is limited judicial practice in this regard. Since a large number of laws and regulations are relatively new and the PRC legal system continues to rapidly evolve, the interpretations of many laws, and regulations and rules are not always uniform and the enforcement of these laws, regulations and rules involves uncertainties. The same concerns apply to the National Security Law in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong authorities have announced their intention to enact further national security legislations in 2024. The details of these laws are yet unknown. They may have a further impact on foreign organizations operating in Hong Kong.
Depending on the government agency or how an application or case is presented to such agency, we may receive less favorable interpretations of laws and regulations than our competitors, particularly if a competitor has long been established in the locality of and has developed a relationship with such agency. In addition, any litigation may be protracted and result in substantial costs and a diversion of resources and management attention. All of these uncertainties may cause difficulties in the enforcement of our rights, entitlements under our permits and other statutory and contractual rights and interests.
On March 8, 2024, the Hong Kong SAR Government issued the Safeguarding National Security Bill (the “Bill”). The Bill as amended was then approved and passed at a full Legislative Council meeting on March 19, 2024. The Safeguarding National Security Ordinance became law and took effect from March 23, 2024. According to the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR, the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance demonstrates three key objectives: (1) to resolutely, fully and faithfully implement the policy of “one country, two systems” under which the people of Hong Kong administer Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy; (2) to establish and improve the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for the Hong Kong SAR to safeguard national security; and (3) to prevent, suppress and punish acts and activities endangering national security in accordance with the law, to protect the lawful rights and interests of the residents of the Hong Kong SAR and other people in the Hong Kong SAR, to ensure the property and investment in the Hong Kong SAR are protected by the law, to maintain prosperity and stability of the Hong Kong SAR. This ordinance introduces significant uncertainty for businesses operating in Hong Kong. This law grants authorities broad powers to address perceived threats to national security, but its implementation and interpretation remain fluid. The ordinance applies not only within Hong Kong but also to activities conducted outside its borders. Businesses with international operations may face legal risks if their actions are perceived as undermining national security, even if those actions occur elsewhere. Companies may inadvertently violate the law due to its complexity and evolving interpretation. Compliance costs, legal challenges, and reputational damage could result from inadvertent non-compliance. The uncertainty surrounding the ordinance may deter foreign investment, impact investor confidence, and affect Hong Kong’s status as a global financial hub. All of these may adversely affect our operations in Hong Kong.
Our Ordinary Shares may be delisted or prohibited from being traded under the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act if the PCAOB were unable to fully inspect our auditor. The delisting or the cessation of trading of our Ordinary Shares, or the threat of them being delisted or prohibited from being traded, may materially and adversely affect the value and/or liquidity of your investment. Additionally, if the PCAOB were unable to conduct full inspections of our auditor, it would deprive our investors with the benefits of such inspections.
The Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act, or the HFCAA, was enacted on December 18, 2020. The HFCAA states that if the SEC determines that we have filed audit reports issued by a registered public accounting firm that has not been subject to inspection by the PCAOB for three consecutive years beginning in 2021, the SEC shall prohibit our shares from being traded on a national securities exchange or in the over-the-counter trading market in the U.S.
Our auditor, the independent registered public accounting firm that has issued the audit report included elsewhere in this prospectus, as an auditor of companies that are traded publicly in the United States and a firm registered with the PCAOB, is subject to laws in the United States pursuant to which the PCAOB conducts regular inspections to assess its compliance with the applicable professional standards. Under current practice and PRC law, the PCAOB is currently able to inspect the audit work and practices of PCAOB-registered firms in PRC. Our auditor is located in the United States, with affiliates in Hong Kong, and the PCAOB has not been legally restricted from inspecting PCAOB audits relating to operations in Hong Kong. As noted above, except for the Basic Law, national laws of the PRC do not apply in Hong Kong unless they are listed in Annex III of the Basic Law and applied locally by promulgation or local legislation. The Basic Law expressly provides that the national laws of the PRC which may be listed in Annex III of the Basic Law shall be confined to those relating to defense and foreign affairs as well as other matters outside the autonomy of Hong Kong. National laws of the PRC relating to PCAOB access to auditor files have not been listed in Annex III and so do not apply directly to Hong Kong. The PRC legal system is evolving rapidly and the PRC laws, regulations, and rules may change quickly with little advance notice. To the extent any PRC laws and regulations become applicable to a company such as us or our auditor, the PCAOB loses its ability to inspect audit firms located in PRC and our auditor retains its working papers in PRC, the PCAOB may be unable to inspect our auditor. The lack of inspection could cause trading in your securities to be prohibited under the HFCAA and as a result Nasdaq may determine to delist your Ordinary Shares.
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On March 24, 2021, the SEC adopted interim final rules relating to the implementation of certain disclosure and documentation requirements of the Act. We would be required to comply with these rules if the SEC identifies us as having a “non-inspection” year under a process to be subsequently established by the SEC. The SEC is assessing how to implement other requirements of the HFCAA, including the listing and trading prohibition requirements described above.
In May 2021, the PCAOB issued a proposed rule 6100, Board Determinations Under the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act, for public comment. The proposed rule is related to the PCAOB’s responsibilities under the HFCAA, which, according to the PCAOB, would establish a framework for the PCAOB to use when determining, as contemplated under the HFCAA, whether the PCAOB is unable to inspect or investigate completely registered public accounting firms located in a foreign jurisdiction because of a position taken by one or more authorities in that jurisdiction. The proposed rule was adopted by the PCAOB on September 22, 2021 and approved by the SEC on November 5, 2021. On December 2, 2021, SEC adopted amendments to finalize rules implementing the submission and disclosure requirements in the HFCAA.
On June 22, 2021, the U.S. Senate passed the Accelerating Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act, which, if passed by the U.S. House of Representatives and signed into law, would decrease the number of non-inspection years from three years to two, thus reducing the time period before your securities may be prohibited from trading or delisted.
In December 2021, the SEC adopted rules to implement the HFCAA and pursuant to the HFCAA, the PCAOB issued its report notifying the SEC of its determination that it is unable to inspect or investigate completely accounting firms headquartered in PRC or Hong Kong.
If for whatever reason the PCAOB is unable to conduct full inspections of our auditor, such uncertainty could cause the market price of our Ordinary Shares to be materially and adversely affected, and our securities could be delisted or prohibited from being traded. If our securities were unable to be listed on another securities exchange by then, such a delisting would substantially impair your ability to sell or purchase our Ordinary Shares when you wish to do so, and the risk and uncertainty associated with a potential delisting would have a negative impact on the price of our Ordinary Shares.
Inspections of other firms that the PCAOB has conducted outside the PRC have identified deficiencies in those firms’ audit procedures and quality control procedures, which may be addressed as part of the inspection process to improve future audit quality. If the PCAOB were unable to conduct full inspections of our auditor, we and the investors in our Ordinary Shares would be deprived of the benefits of such PCAOB inspections. In addition, the inability of the PCAOB to conduct full inspections of auditors would make it more difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of our independent registered public accounting firm’s audit procedures or quality control procedures as compared to auditors that are subject to the PCAOB inspections, which could cause investors and potential investors in our securities to lose confidence in our audit procedures and reported financial information and the quality of our financial statements.
Our independent registered public accounting firm, UHY LLP, is not subject to the determinations announced by the PCAOB on December 16, 2021. UHY LLP are headquartered in Farmington Hills, Michigan. UHY LLP are not headquartered in the PRC or Hong Kong. The PCAOB currently has access to inspect the working papers of UHY LLP. As a result, we do not believe the HFCAA and related regulations will affect our company. If, however, our independent registered public accounting firm, or its affiliates, were denied, even temporarily, the ability to practice before the SEC and PCAOB, and it were determined that our financial statements or audit reports are not in compliance with the requirements of the U.S. Exchange Act, we could be at risk of delisting or become subject to other penalties that would adversely affect our ability to remain listed on the Nasdaq.
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Cayman Islands Risk Factors
Because Diginex Limited is incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands, you may face difficulties in protecting your interests, and your ability to protect your rights through the U.S. Federal courts may be limited.
Diginex Limited is an exempted company with limited liability incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands. As a result, it may be difficult for investors to effect service of process within the United States upon Diginex Limited’s directors or officers, or enforce judgments obtained in the United States courts against Diginex Limited’s directors or officers.
Diginex Limited’s corporate affairs will be governed by its Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles, the Companies Act (As Revised) and the common law of the Cayman Islands. Diginex Limited will also be subject to the federal securities laws of the United States. The rights of shareholders to take action against the directors, actions by minority shareholders and the fiduciary responsibilities of Diginex Limited’s directors to Diginex Limited under Cayman Islands law are to a large extent governed by the common law of the Cayman Islands. The common law of the Cayman Islands is derived in part from comparatively limited judicial precedent in the Cayman Islands as well as from English common law, the decisions of whose courts are of persuasive authority, but are not binding on a court in the Cayman Islands. The rights of Diginex Limited’s shareholders and the fiduciary responsibilities of Diginex Limited’s directors under Cayman Islands law are not as clearly established as they would be under statutes or judicial precedent in some jurisdictions in the United States. In particular, the Cayman Islands has a less developed body of securities laws as compared to the United States, and certain states, such as Delaware, may have more fully developed and judicially interpreted bodies of corporate law than the Cayman Islands. In addition, Cayman Islands companies may not have standing to initiate a shareholders derivative action in a Federal court of the United States.
Shareholders of Cayman Islands exempted companies like Diginex Limited have no general rights under Cayman Islands law to inspect corporate records (other than the memorandum and articles of association and any special resolutions passed by such companies, and the register of mortgages and charges of such companies) or to obtain copies of lists of shareholders of these companies. Diginex Limited’s directors have discretion under its Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles that will become effective immediately prior to completion of this Offering to determine whether or not, and under what conditions, our corporate records may be inspected by our shareholders, but are not obliged to make them available to Diginex Limited’s shareholders. This may make it more difficult for you to obtain the information needed to establish any facts necessary for a shareholder motion or to solicit proxies from other shareholders in connection with a proxy contest.
As a result of all of the above, Diginex Limited’s public shareholders may have more difficulty in protecting their interests in the face of actions taken by management, members of Diginex Limited’s board of directors or controlling shareholders than they would as public shareholders of a company incorporated in the United States. For a discussion of significant differences between the provisions of the Companies Act and the laws applicable to companies incorporated in the United States and their shareholders, see “Description of Securities Capital — Certain Differences in Corporate Law.”
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As a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands, Diginex Limited is permitted to adopt certain home country practices in relation to corporate governance matters that differ significantly from Nasdaq corporate governance listing standards; these practices may afford less protection to shareholders than they would enjoy if Diginex Limited complied fully with Nasdaq corporate governance listing standards.
Diginex Limited is an exempted company with limited liability incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands, and intends to list the Ordinary Shares on Nasdaq. Nasdaq market rules permit a foreign private issuer like Diginex Limited to follow the corporate governance practices of its home country. Certain corporate governance practices in the Cayman Islands, which is Diginex Limited’s home country, may differ significantly from Nasdaq corporate governance listing standards as, except for general fiduciary duties and duties of care, Cayman Islands law has no corporate governance regime which prescribes specific corporate governance standards.
Currently, we do intend to rely on home country practice with respect to our corporate governance after we complete this Offering. As a result, our shareholders may be afforded less protection than they otherwise would have under corporate governance listing standards applicable to U.S. domestic issuers. Among others, we will not be required to: (i) have a majority of the board be independent; (ii) have a compensation committee consisting entirely of independent directors; (iii) have a minimum of three members on the audit committee; (iv) obtain shareholders’ approval for issuance of securities in certain situations; or (v) have regularly scheduled executive sessions with only independent directors each year.
Provisions in the Diginex Limited’s governance documents may inhibit a takeover of Diginex Limited, which could limit the price investors might be willing to pay in the future for Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares and could entrench management.
Diginex Limited’s governance documents will contain provisions that may discourage unsolicited takeover proposals that shareholders may consider to be in their best interests. These provisions include that Diginex Limited’s board of directors will be classified into three classes of directors. As a result, in most circumstances, a person can gain control of the board only by successfully engaging in a proxy contest at two or more annual general meetings. Diginex Limited may issue additional shares without shareholder approval and such additional shares could be utilized for a variety of corporate purposes, including future offerings to raise additional capital, acquisitions and employee benefit plans. The ability for Diginex Limited to issue additional shares could render more difficult or discourage an attempt to obtain control of us by means of a proxy contest, tender offer, merger or otherwise that could involve the payment of a premium over prevailing market prices for Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares.
As a foreign private issuer, Diginex Limited will be exempt from a number of U.S. securities laws and rules promulgated thereunder and will be permitted to publicly disclose less information than U.S. public companies must. This may limit the information available to holders of the Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares.
Diginex Limited qualifies as a “foreign private issuer,” as defined in the SEC’s rules and regulations, and, consequently, Diginex Limited will not be subject to all of the disclosure requirements applicable to public companies organized within the United States. For example, Diginex Limited will be exempt from certain rules under the Exchange Act that regulate disclosure obligations and procedural requirements related to the solicitation of proxies, consents or authorizations applicable to a security registered under the Exchange Act. In addition, Diginex Limited’s officers and directors are exempt from the reporting and “short-swing” profit recovery provisions of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and related rules with respect to their purchases and sales of Diginex Limited’s securities. For example, some of Diginex Limited’s key executives may sell a significant amount of Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares and such sales will not be required to be disclosed as promptly as public companies organized within the United States would have to disclose. Accordingly, once such sales are eventually disclosed, the price of Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares may decline significantly. Moreover, Diginex Limited will not be required to file periodic reports and financial statements with the SEC as frequently or as promptly as U.S. public companies. Diginex Limited will also not be subject to Regulation FD under the Exchange Act, which would prohibit Diginex Limited from selectively disclosing material nonpublic information to certain persons without concurrently making a widespread public disclosure of such information. Accordingly, there may be less publicly available information concerning Diginex Limited than there is for U.S. public companies.
As a foreign private issuer, Diginex Limited will file an annual report on Form 20-F within four months of the close of each fiscal year ended March 31 and furnish reports on Form 6-K relating to certain material events promptly after Diginex Limited publicly announces these events. However, because of the above exemptions for foreign private issuers, which Diginex Limited intends to rely on, Diginex Limited shareholders will not be afforded the same information generally available to investors holding shares in public companies that are not foreign private issuers.
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You may be unable to present proposals before annual general meetings or extraordinary general meetings not called by shareholders.
Cayman Islands law provides shareholders with only limited rights to requisition a general meeting, and does not provide shareholders with any right to put any proposal before a general meeting. These rights, however, may be provided in a company’s articles of association. Diginex Limited’s amended and restated articles of association allow one or more of our shareholders who together hold not less than 10% of the rights to vote to requisition a general meeting of our shareholders, in which case our directors are obliged to call such meeting. Advance notice of at least five (5) clear days is required to be given to the shareholders for the convening of any general meeting. A quorum required for a general meeting is one or more holders holding shares that represent not less than one-third of the outstanding shares of the Company carrying the right to vote at such general meeting. For these purposes, “clear days” means that period excluding (a) the day when the notice is given or deemed to be given and (b) the day for which it is given or on which it is to take effect.
Because Diginex Limited is a foreign private issuer and is exempt from certain Nasdaq corporate governance standards applicable to U.S. issuers, you will have less protection than you would have if it were a domestic issuer.
Diginex Limited’s status as a foreign private issuer exempts it from compliance with certain Nasdaq corporate governance requirements if it instead complies with the statutory requirements applicable to a Cayman Islands exempted company. The statutory requirements of Diginex Limited’s home country of Cayman Islands do not strictly require a majority of its board to consist of independent directors. Thus, although a director must act in the best interests of Diginex Limited, it is possible that fewer board members will be exercising independent judgment and the level of board oversight on the management of Diginex Limited may decrease as a result. In addition, the Nasdaq Listing Rules also require U.S. domestic issuers to have an independent compensation committee with a minimum of two members, a nominating committee, and an independent audit committee with a minimum of three members. Diginex Limited, as a foreign private issuer, with the exception of needing an independent audit committee composed of at least three members, is not subject to these requirements. The Nasdaq Listing Rules may also require shareholder approval for certain corporate matters that Diginex Limited’s home country’s rules do not. Following Cayman Islands governance practices, as opposed to complying with the requirements applicable to a U.S. company listed on Nasdaq, may provide less protection to you than would otherwise be the case.
Diginex Limited may lose its foreign private issuer status in the future, which could result in significant additional costs and expenses.
As a “foreign private issuer,” Diginex Limited would not be required to comply with all of the periodic disclosure and current reporting requirements of the Exchange Act and related rules and regulations. Under those rules, the determination of foreign private issuer status is made annually on the last business day of an issuer’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter, and, accordingly, the next determination will be made with respect to Diginex on September 30, 2024.
In the future, Diginex Limited could lose its foreign private issuer status if a majority of its Ordinary Shares are held by residents in the United States and it fails to meet any one of the additional “business contacts” requirements. Although Diginex Limited intends to follow certain practices that are consistent with U.S. regulatory provisions applicable to U.S. companies, Diginex Limited’s loss of foreign private issuer status would make such provisions mandatory. The regulatory and compliance costs to Diginex Limited under U.S. securities laws if it is deemed a U.S. domestic issuer may be significantly higher. If Diginex Limited is not a foreign private issuer, Diginex Limited will be required to file periodic reports and prospectuses on U.S. domestic issuer forms with the SEC, which are more detailed and extensive than the forms available to a foreign private issuer. For example, Diginex Limited would become subject to the Regulation FD, aimed at preventing issuers from making selective disclosures of material information. Diginex Limited also may be required to modify certain of its policies to comply with good governance practices associated with U.S. domestic issuers. Such conversion and modifications will involve additional costs. In addition, Diginex Limited may lose its ability to rely upon exemptions from certain corporate governance requirements of Nasdaq that are available to foreign private issuers. For example, Nasdaq’s corporate governance rules require listed companies to have, among other things, a majority of independent board members and independent director oversight of executive compensation, nomination of directors, and corporate governance matters. Nasdaq rules also require shareholder approval of certain share issuances, including approval of equity compensation plans. As a foreign private issuer, Diginex Limited would be permitted to follow home country practice in lieu of the above requirements. As long as Diginex Limited relies on the foreign private issuer exemption to certain of Nasdaq’s corporate governance standards, a majority of the directors on its board of directors are not required to be independent directors, its remuneration committee is not required to be comprised entirely of independent directors and it will not be required to have a nominating and corporate governance committee. If Diginex Limited loses its foreign private issuer status and fails to comply with U.S. securities laws applicable to U.S. domestic issuers, Diginex Limited may have to de-list from Nasdaq and could be subject to investigation by the SEC, Nasdaq and other regulators, among other materially adverse consequences.
We currently do not expect to pay dividends in the foreseeable future after this Offering and you must rely on price appreciation of our Ordinary Shares for a return on your investment.
We currently intend to retain most, if not all, of our available funds and any future earnings after this Offering to fund our development and growth. As a result, we do not expect to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Therefore, you should not rely on an investment in our Ordinary Shares as a source for any future dividend income.
Our board of directors has complete discretion as to whether to distribute dividends, subject to certain requirements of Cayman Islands law. In addition, our shareholders may by ordinary resolution declare a dividend, but no dividend may exceed the amount recommended by our directors. Under Cayman Islands law, a Cayman Islands company may pay a dividend out of either profit or share premium account, provided that in no circumstances may a dividend be paid if this would result in the company being unable to pay its debts as they fall due in the ordinary course of business. Even if our board of directors decides to declare and pay dividends, the timing, amount and form of future dividends, if any, will depend on our future results of operations and cash flow, our capital requirements and surplus, the amount of distributions, if any, received by us from the operating entities, our financial condition, contractual restrictions and other factors deemed relevant by our board of directors. Accordingly, the return on your investment in our Ordinary Shares will likely depend entirely upon any future price appreciation of our Ordinary Shares. There is no guarantee that our Ordinary Shares will appreciate in value after this Offering or even maintain the price at which you purchased the Ordinary Shares. You may not realize a return on your investment in our Ordinary Shares and you may even lose your entire investment in our Ordinary Shares.
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Risks Related to Taxation
We may be classified as a passive foreign investment company, or PFIC, for U.S. federal income tax purposes for the current taxable year, which could result in adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences for U.S. Holders of our Shares.
In general, we will be treated as a passive foreign investment company (“PFIC”) for any taxable year in which either (1) at least 75% of our gross income (looking through certain 25% or more-owned subsidiaries) is passive income or (2) at least 50% of the average value of our assets (looking through certain 25% or more-owned subsidiaries) is attributable to assets that produce, or are held for the production of, passive income. Passive income generally includes, without limitation, dividends, interest, rents, royalties, and gains from the disposition of passive assets. If we are determined to be a PFIC for any taxable year (or portion thereof) that is included in the holding period of a U.S. Holder (as defined in the Section of this prospectus captioned “U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations”) of our securities, the U.S. Holder may be subject to increased U.S. federal income tax liability and may be subject to additional reporting requirements. The determination of whether we are a PFIC is a fact-intensive determination made on an annual basis applying principles and methodologies that in some circumstances are unclear and subject to varying interpretation. Our actual PFIC status for any taxable year will not be determinable until after the end of such taxable year. Accordingly, there can be no assurance with respect to our status as a PFIC for our current taxable year or any subsequent taxable year. We urge U.S. Holders to consult their own tax advisors regarding the possible application of the PFIC rules in light of their individual circumstances.
Risks Related to Being a Public Company and this Offering
Diginex Limited has limited experience operating as a public company and fulfilling its obligations as a U.S. reporting company may be expensive and time consuming.
Only one member of the Company’s executive officers has past experience in operating a U.S. public company, which makes their ability to comply with applicable laws, rules and regulations uncertain. The Company’s failure to comply with all laws, rules and regulations applicable to U.S. public companies could subject Diginex or its management to regulatory scrutiny or sanction, which could harm the Company’s reputation and share price.
As a public company Diginex Limited will incur significant legal, accounting, and other expenses that it did not incur as a private company. Diginex Limited is subject to reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, the rules subsequently implemented by the SEC, the rules and regulations of the listing standards of The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC, or Nasdaq, and other applicable securities rules and regulations. Stockholder activism, the current political and social environment and the current high level of government intervention and regulatory reform may lead to substantial new regulations and disclosure obligations, which will likely result in additional compliance costs and could impact the manner in which Diginex Limited operates its business in ways Diginex Limited cannot currently anticipate. Compliance with these rules and regulations may strain Diginex Limited’s financial and management systems, internal controls, and employees. The Exchange Act requires, among other things, that Diginex Limited files annual, half yearly, and current reports with respect to its business and operating results. Moreover, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires, among other things, that Diginex Limited maintains effective disclosure controls and procedures, and internal control, over financial reporting. In order to maintain and, if required, improve disclosure controls and procedures, and internal control over, financial reporting to meet this standard, significant resources and management oversight may be required. If Diginex Limited encounters material weaknesses or deficiencies in internal control over financial reporting, Diginex Limited may not detect errors on a timely basis and its combined financial statements may be materially misstated. Effective internal control is necessary for Diginex Limited to produce reliable financial reports and is important to prevent fraud.
Diginex Limited, as an emerging growth company, is not required to have its independent auditor attestation of management assessment of its internal controls over financial reporting. However, when Diginex Limited ceases to be an emerging growth company, its independent registered public accounting firm may be required to formally attest to the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting at some point in the future on Form 20-F. Diginex Limited expects to incur significant expenses and devote substantial management effort toward ensuring compliance with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. As a result of the complexity involved in complying with the rules and regulations applicable to public companies, Diginex Limited’s management attention may be diverted from other business concerns, which could harm the business, operating results, and financial condition. Although Diginex Limited has already hired additional employees to assist in complying with these requirements, its finance team is small and it may need to hire more employees in the future, or engage outside consultants, which will increase operating expenses.
Diginex Limited also expects that being a public company and complying with applicable rules and regulations will make it more expensive for it to obtain director and officer liability insurance, and Diginex Limited may be required to incur substantially higher costs to obtain and maintain the same or similar coverage. These factors could also make it more difficult for Diginex Limited to attract and retain qualified members of its board of directors and qualified executive officers.
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A potential failure to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act could have a material adverse effect on Diginex Limited’s business, financial condition, and results of operations. Diginex Limited may be unable to accurately report Diginex Limited’s financial results or prevent fraud if Diginex cannot maintain an effective system of internal controls over Diginex Limited’s financial reporting.
Diginex Limited will be subject to reporting obligations under the U.S. securities laws. The Securities and Exchange Commission, or the “SEC,” as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, or the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act,” adopted rules requiring every public company to include a management report on such company’s internal controls over financial reporting in its annual report, which contains management’s assessment of the effectiveness of the company’s internal controls over financial reporting. Diginex Limited will be an “emerging growth company,” and are expected to first include a management report on Diginex Limited’s internal controls over financial reporting in Diginex Limited’s second annual report after the close of the Offering. Diginex Limited’s management may conclude that Diginex Limited’s internal controls over Diginex Limited’s financial reporting are not effective, and Diginex Limited’s reporting obligations as a public company will place a significant strain on Diginex Limited’s management, operational and financial resources, and systems for the foreseeable future, which will increase Diginex Limited’s operating expenses.
The establishment of effective internal controls over financial reporting is necessary for Diginex Limited to produce reliable financial reports and are important to help prevent fraud. Diginex Limited’s failure to achieve and maintain effective internal controls over financial reporting could consequently result in the loss of investor confidence in the reliability of Diginex Limited’s financial statements, which in turn could harm Diginex Limited’s business and negatively impact the trading price of Diginex Limited’s stock. Diginex Limited anticipate that it will incur considerable costs and devote significant management time and efforts and other resources to comply with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
If we fail to establish and maintain proper internal financial reporting controls, our ability to produce accurate financial statements or comply with applicable regulations could be impaired.
Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, we will be required to file a report by our management on our internal control over financial reporting. In addition, an attestation report on internal control over financial reporting issued by our independent registered public accounting firm may be required. While we remain an emerging growth company, we will not be required to include an attestation report on internal control over financial reporting issued by our independent registered public accounting firm. We might not identify one or more material weaknesses in our internal controls in connection with evaluating our compliance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The presence of material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting could result in financial statement errors which, in turn, could lead to errors in our financial reports and/or delays in our financial reporting, which could require us to restate our operating results.
The JOBS Act permits “emerging growth companies” like Diginex Limited to take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements applicable to other public companies that are not emerging growth companies.
Diginex Limited expects that it will qualify as an “emerging growth company” as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the Securities Act, as modified by the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012 (the “JOBS Act”). The JOBS Act defines an emerging growth company as a company that has annual gross revenues of less than $1.235 billion during its most recent fiscal year and has not sold common stock under a registration statement. A company will be classified as an emerging growth company for its first five fiscal years, unless: its gross revenues exceed $1.235 billion, it has issued over $1 billion in non-convertible debt over three years, or it becomes a large accelerated filer. SEC Rule 12b-2 provides that a large accelerated filer is a company that has a public float of greater than $700 million, has been filing periodic reports for at least 12 months, has previously filed at least one annual report (e.g. Form 10-K), and is not a smaller reporting company. That is, a large accelerated filer is simply an accelerated filer whose public float exceeds $700 million. As such, Diginex Limited will take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements applicable to other public companies based on its status as an emerging growth company. Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, once Diginex Limited is no longer an emerging growth company, Diginex Limited may be required to furnish an attestation report on internal control over financial reporting issued by Diginex Limited’s independent registered public accounting firm. When Diginex Limited’s independent registered public accounting firm is required to undertake an assessment of its internal control over financial reporting, the cost of complying with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act will significantly increase, and management’s attention may be diverted from other business concerns, which could adversely affect Diginex Limited’s business and results of operations.
Our major shareholder has substantial influence over our company and his interests may not be aligned with the interests of our other shareholders.
As of the date of this prospectus, our major shareholder, beneficially owns an aggregate of approximately 55.6% of our issued and outstanding Ordinary Shares through. As a result of this major shareholders’ substantial shareholding, he has a substantial influence over our business, including decisions regarding mergers, consolidations and the sale of all or substantially all of our assets, election of directors and other significant corporate actions. This shareholder may take actions that are not in the best interests of us or our other shareholders. This concentration of ownership may discourage, delay or prevent a change in control of our company, which could deprive our shareholders of an opportunity to receive a premium for their shares as part of a sale of our company and might reduce the price of our Ordinary Shares. These actions may be taken even if they are opposed by our other shareholders.
We cannot assure you that we will be able to meet Nasdaq’s initial listing requirements to consummate our initial public offering, and Nasdaq may not permit our Ordinary Shares to be quoted on its exchange, which could limit investors’ ability to make transactions in our securities and subject us to additional trading restrictions.
We anticipate that our securities will be listed on Nasdaq, a national securities exchange, upon our initial public offering. Although, at the time of our initial public offering we expect to meet Nasdaq’s minimum initial listing standards, which generally only require that we meet certain requirements relating to stockholders’ equity, market capitalization, aggregate market value of publicly held shares and distribution requirements, we cannot assure you that our securities will be, or will continue to be, listed on Nasdaq in the future. However, we cannot assure you that we will be able to meet those initial listing requirements at that time.
The National Securities Markets Improvement Act of 1996, which is a federal statute, prevents or preempts the states from regulating the sale of certain securities, which are referred to as “covered securities.” Because we expect that our Ordinary Shares will be listed on Nasdaq, our Ordinary Shares will be covered securities. Although the states are preempted from regulating the sale of our securities, the federal statute does allow the states to investigate companies if there is a suspicion of fraud, and, if there is a finding of fraudulent activity, then the states can regulate or bar the sale of covered securities in a particular case. If we were no longer listed on Nasdaq, our securities would not be covered securities, and we would be subject to regulation in each state in which we offer our securities.
Our failure to meet the continued listing requirements of Nasdaq could result in a de-listing of our Ordinary Shares and penny stock trading.
If our Ordinary Shares are listed on The Nasdaq Capital Market and if we fail to satisfy the applicable continued listing requirements, Nasdaq may commence delisting procedures against our Company (during which we may have additional time of up to six months to appeal and correct our non-compliance). If our Ordinary Shares are ultimately delisted from Nasdaq, our Ordinary Shares would likely then trade only in the over-the-counter market and the market liquidity of our Ordinary Shares could be adversely affected and their market price could decrease. If our Ordinary Shares were to trade on the over-the-counter market, selling our Ordinary Shares could be more difficult because smaller quantities of shares would likely be bought and sold, transactions could be delayed, and we could face significant material adverse consequences, including: a limited availability of market quotations for our securities; reduced liquidity with respect to our securities; a determination that our shares are a “penny stock,” which will require brokers trading in our securities to adhere to more stringent rules, possibly resulting in a reduced level of trading activity in the secondary trading market for our securities; a reduced amount of news and analyst coverage for our Company; and a decreased ability to issue additional securities or obtain additional financing in the future. These factors could result in lower prices and larger spreads in the bid and ask prices for our Ordinary Shares and would substantially impair our ability to raise additional funds and could result in a loss of institutional investor interest and fewer development opportunities for us.
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In addition to the foregoing, if our Ordinary Shares are ultimately delisted from Nasdaq and they trade on the over-the-counter market, the application of the “penny stock” rules could adversely affect the market price of our Ordinary Shares and increase the transaction costs to sell those shares. The SEC has adopted regulations which generally define a “penny stock” as an equity security that has a market price of less than $5.00 per share, subject to specific exemptions. If our Ordinary Shares are ultimately delisted from Nasdaq and then trade on the over-the-counter market at a price of less than $5.00 per share, our Ordinary Shares would be considered a penny stock. The SEC’s penny stock rules require a broker-dealer, before a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from the rules, to deliver a standardized risk disclosure document that provides information about penny stocks and the risks in the penny stock market. The broker-dealer must also provide the customer with current bid and offer quotations for the penny stock, the compensation of the broker-dealer and the salesperson in the transaction, and monthly account statements showing the market value of each penny stock held in the customer’s account. In addition, the penny stock rules generally require that before a transaction in a penny stock occurs, 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 agreement to the transaction. If applicable in the future, these rules may restrict the ability of brokers-dealers to sell our Ordinary Shares and may affect the ability of investors to sell their shares, until our Ordinary Shares no longer is considered a penny stock.
If securities industry analysts do not publish research reports on Diginex Limited, or publish unfavorable reports on Diginex Limited, then the market price and market trading volume of Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares could be negatively affected.
Any trading market for Diginex Limited Ordinary Shares may be influenced in part by any research reports that securities industry analysts publish about Diginex Limited. Diginex Limited does not currently have and may never obtain research coverage by securities industry analysts. If no securities industry analysts commence coverage of Diginex Limited, the market price and market trading volume of Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares could be negatively affected. In the event Diginex Limited is covered by analysts, and one or more of such analysts downgrade Diginex Limited shares, or otherwise reports on Diginex Limited unfavorably, or discontinues coverage of Diginex Limited, the market price and market trading volume of Diginex Limited Ordinary Shares could be negatively affected.
Because we are a foreign private issuer and are exempt from certain Nasdaq corporate governance standards applicable to U.S. issuers, you will have less protection than you would have if we were a domestic issuer.
The Nasdaq Listing Rules require listed companies to have, among other things, a majority of its board members be independent. As a foreign private issuer, however, we are permitted to, and we may follow home country practice in lieu of the above requirements. The corporate governance practice in our home country, the Cayman Islands, does not require a majority of our board to consist of independent directors. In addition, the Nasdaq Listing Rules also require U.S. domestic issuers to have a compensation committee, a nominating/corporate governance committee and an audit committee. We, as a foreign private issuer, are not subject to these requirements. The Nasdaq Listing Rules may require shareholder approval for certain corporate matters, such as requiring that shareholders be given the opportunity to vote on all equity compensation plans and material revisions to those plans, certain ordinary share issuances. We intend to comply with most of the corporate governance requirements of the Nasdaq Listing Rules. However, we may, in the future, consider following home country practice in lieu of the requirements under the Nasdaq Listing Rules with respect to certain corporate governance standards which may afford less protection to investors. In particular, under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5615(a)(3)(A), a foreign private issuer may, in general, follow its home country corporate governance practices in lieu of some of the Nasdaq corporate governance requirements, set forth in the Nasdaq Marketplace Rule 5600 Series (with certain exceptions not relevant here). Diginex Limited has elected to be exempt from the requirement in Nasdaq Marketplace Rule 5635(d) which sets forth the circumstances under which shareholder approval is required prior to an issuance of securities, other than in a public offering, equal to 20% or more of the voting power outstanding at a price less than the lower of: (i) the Nasdaq Official Closing Price (as reflected on Nasdaq.com) immediately preceding the signing of the binding agreement; or (ii) the average Nasdaq Official Closing Price of the common stock (as reflected on Nasdaq.com) for the five trading days immediately preceding the signing of the binding agreement.
Although as a foreign private issuer we are exempt from certain corporate governance standards applicable to U.S. issuers, if we cannot satisfy, or continue to satisfy, the initial listing requirements and other rules of Nasdaq, our securities may be delisted, which could negatively impact the price of our securities and your ability to sell them.
Following this offering, in order to maintain our listing on Nasdaq, we will be required to comply with certain rules of Nasdaq, including those regarding minimum stockholders’ equity, minimum share price, minimum market value of publicly held shares, and various additional requirements. Even if we initially meet the listing requirements and other applicable rules of Nasdaq, we may not be able to continue to satisfy these requirements and applicable rules. If we are unable to satisfy the criteria of Nasdaq for maintaining our listing, our securities could be subject to delisting, which would have a negative effect on the price of our Ordinary Shares and impair your ability to sell your shares.
If Nasdaq does not list our securities, or subsequently delists our securities from trading, we could face significant consequences, including:
● | a limited availability for market quotations for our Ordinary Shares; | |
● | reduced liquidity with respect to our Ordinary Shares; | |
● | a determination that our Ordinary Shares are “penny stock,” which will require brokers trading in our Ordinary Shares to adhere to more stringent rules and possibly result in a reduced level of trading activity in the secondary trading market for our Ordinary Shares; | |
● | limited amount of news and analyst coverage; and | |
● | a decreased ability to issue additional securities or obtain additional financing in the future. |
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If we cease to qualify as a foreign private issuer, we would be required to comply fully with the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act applicable to U.S. domestic issuers, and we would incur significant additional legal, accounting and other expenses that we would not incur as a foreign private issuer.
We expect to qualify as a foreign private issuer upon the completion of this Offering. As a foreign private issuer, we will be exempt from the rules under the Exchange Act prescribing the furnishing and content of proxy statements, and our officers, directors and principal shareholders will be exempt from the reporting and short-swing profit recovery provisions contained in Section 16 of the Exchange Act. In addition, we will not be required under the Exchange Act to file periodic reports and financial statements with the SEC as frequently or as promptly as U.S. domestic issuers, and we will not be required to disclose in our periodic reports all of the information that U.S. domestic issuers are required to disclose. While we currently expect to qualify as a foreign private issuer immediately following the completion of this Offering, we may cease to qualify as a foreign private issuer in the future, and consequently, we would be required to fully comply with the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act applicable to U.S. domestic issuers, and we would incur significant additional legal, accounting and other expenses that we would not incur as a foreign private issuer.
We are an “emerging growth company” within the meaning of the Securities Act, and if we take advantage of certain exemptions from disclosure requirements available to emerging growth companies, this could make it more difficult to compare our performance with other public companies.
We are an “emerging growth company” within the meaning of the Securities Act, as modified by the JOBS Act. Section 102(b)(1) of the JOBS Act exempts emerging growth companies from being required to comply with new or revised financial accounting standards until private companies (that is, those that have not had a Securities Act registration statement declared effective or do not have a class of securities registered under the Exchange Act) are required to comply with the new or revised financial accounting standards. The JOBS Act provides that a company can elect to opt out of the extended transition period and comply with the requirements that apply to non-emerging growth companies but any such an election to opt out is irrevocable. We have elected not to opt out of such extended transition period, which means that when a standard is issued or revised, and it has different application dates for public or private companies, we, as an emerging growth company, can adopt the new or revised standard at the time private companies adopt the new or revised standard. This may make comparison of our financial statements with another public company which is neither an emerging growth company nor an emerging growth company which has opted out of using the extended transition period difficult or impossible because of the potential differences in accountant standards used.
As an “emerging growth company” under applicable law, we will be subject to lessened disclosure requirements. Such reduced disclosure may make our Ordinary Shares less attractive to investors.
For as long as we remain an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the JOBS Act, we will elect to take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not “emerging growth companies”, including, but not limited to, not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements, and exemptions from the requirements of holding a non-binding advisory vote on executive compensation and shareholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. Because of these lessened regulatory requirements, our shareholders would be left without information or rights available to shareholders of more mature companies. If some investors find our Ordinary Shares less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our Ordinary Shares and our share price may be more volatile.
We will incur increased costs as a result of being a public company, particularly after we cease to qualify as an “emerging growth company.”
Upon consummation of this Offering, we will incur significant legal, accounting and other expenses as a public company that we did not incur as a private company. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as well as rules subsequently implemented by the SEC, Nasdaq Capital Market, impose various requirements on the corporate governance practices of public companies.
Compliance with these rules and regulations increases our legal and financial compliance costs and makes some corporate activities more time-consuming and costly. After we are no longer an “emerging growth company,” or until five years following the completion of our initial public offering, whichever is earlier, we expect to incur significant expenses and devote substantial management effort toward ensuring compliance with the requirements of Section 404 and the other rules and regulations of the SEC. For example, as a public company, we have been required to increase the number of independent directors and adopt policies regarding internal controls and disclosure controls and procedures. We have incurred additional costs in obtaining director and officer liability insurance. In addition, we will incur additional costs associated with our public company reporting requirements. It may also be more difficult or costly for us to find qualified persons to serve on our board of directors or as executive officers as a public company. We are currently evaluating and monitoring developments with respect to these rules and regulations, and we cannot predict or estimate with any degree of certainty the amount of additional costs we may incur or the timing of such costs.
Our Ordinary Shares may be thinly traded and you may be unable to sell at or near ask prices or at all if you need to sell your shares to raise money or otherwise desire to liquidate your shares.
When our Ordinary Shares are approved by Nasdaq and begin trading on Nasdaq, our Ordinary Shares may be “thinly-traded”, meaning that the number of persons interested in purchasing our Ordinary Shares at or near bid prices at any given time may be relatively small or non-existent. This situation may be attributable to a number of factors, including the fact that we are relatively unknown to stock analysts, stock brokers, institutional investors and others in the investment community that generate or influence sales volume, and that even if we came to the attention of such persons, they tend to be risk-averse and might be reluctant to follow an unproven company such as ours or purchase or recommend the purchase of our shares until such time as we become more seasoned. As a consequence, there may be periods of several days or more when trading activity in our shares is minimal or non-existent, as compared to a seasoned issuer which has a large and steady volume of trading activity that will generally support continuous sales without an adverse effect on share price. Broad or active public trading market for our Ordinary Shares may not develop or be sustained.
The initial public offering price for our Ordinary Shares may not be indicative of prices that will prevail in the trading market and such market prices may be volatile.
The initial public offering price for our Ordinary Shares was determined by negotiations between us and the underwriters, and does not bear any relationship to our earnings, book value or any other indicia of value. We cannot assure you that the market price of our Ordinary Shares will not decline significantly below the initial public offering price. The financial markets in the United States and other countries have experienced significant price and volume fluctuations in the last few years. Volatility in the price of our Ordinary Shares may be caused by factors outside of our control and may be unrelated or disproportionate to changes in our results of operations.
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You will experience immediate and substantial dilution in the net tangible book value of Ordinary Shares purchased.
The initial public offering price of our Ordinary Shares is substantially higher than the (pro forma) net tangible book value per share of our Ordinary Shares. Consequently, when you purchase our Ordinary Shares in the Offering and upon completion of the Offering, you will incur immediate dilution of $4.66 per Ordinary Share, based on the assumed initial public offering price of $5.00. In addition, you may experience further dilution to the extent that additional Ordinary Shares are issued upon the exercise of currently outstanding warrants or options or upon the exercise of warrants or options we may grant from time to time in the future. For more information, please refer to the section of this prospectus entitled “Dilution.”
If we fail to meet applicable listing requirements, Nasdaq may delist our Ordinary Shares from trading, in which case the liquidity and market price of our Ordinary Shares could decline.
Assuming our Ordinary Shares are listed on Nasdaq, we cannot assure you that we will be able to meet the continued listing standards of Nasdaq in the future. If we fail to comply with the applicable listing standards and Nasdaq delists our Ordinary Shares, we and our Shareholders could face significant material adverse consequences, including:
● | a limited availability of market quotations for our Ordinary Shares; | |
● | reduced liquidity for our Ordinary Shares; | |
● | a determination that our Ordinary Shares are “penny stock”, which would require brokers trading in our Ordinary Shares to adhere to more stringent rules and possibly result in a reduced level of trading activity in the secondary trading market for our Ordinary Shares; | |
● | a limited amount of news about us and analyst coverage of us; and | |
● | a decreased ability for us to issue additional equity securities or obtain additional equity or debt financing in the future. |
The National Securities Markets Improvement Act of 1996, which is a federal statute, prevents or pre-empts the states from regulating the sale of certain securities, which are referred to as “covered securities.” Because Ordinary Shares are listed on Nasdaq, such securities are covered securities. Although the states are pre-empted from regulating the sale of our securities, the federal statute does allow the states to investigate companies if there is a suspicion of fraud, and, if there is a finding of fraudulent activity, then the states can regulate or bar the sale of covered securities in a particular case. Further, if we were no longer listed on Nasdaq, our securities would not be covered securities and we would be subject to regulations in each state in which we offer our securities.
We do not intend to pay dividends for the foreseeable future.
We currently intend to retain any future earnings to finance the operation and expansion of our business, and we do not expect to declare or pay any dividends in the foreseeable future. As a result, you may only receive a return on your investment in our Ordinary Shares if the market price of our Ordinary Shares increases.
You may experience difficulties in effecting service of legal process, enforcing foreign judgments or bringing actions against Diginex Limited or its management named in the prospectus based on foreign laws.
Diginex Limited is incorporated under the laws of Cayman Islands. Diginex Limited conducts its operations outside the United States and a significant amount of our assets are located outside the United States. In addition, a majority of Diginex Limited’s directors and executive officers and the experts named in this prospectus reside outside the United States, and a significant amount of their assets are located outside the United States. As a result, it may be difficult or impossible for you to bring an action against Diginex Limited or against them in the United States in the event you believe your rights have been infringed under the U.S. federal securities laws or otherwise. Even if you are successful in bringing an action of this kind, the laws of Cayman Islands or other relevant jurisdiction may render you unable to enforce a judgment against Diginex Limited assets or the assets of its directors and officers.
Future issuance of Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares could dilute the interests of existing shareholders.
Diginex Limited may issue additional Ordinary Shares in the future. The issuance of a substantial number of Ordinary Shares could have the effect of substantially diluting the interests of Diginex Limited’s shareholders. In addition, the sale of a substantial amount of Ordinary Shares in the public market, in the initial issuance, in a situation in which Diginex Limited acquires a company, a business or an asset and the acquired company or the owner of the business or asset receives Ordinary Shares as consideration and the acquired company or the owner of the business or asset subsequently sells its Ordinary Shares, or by investors who acquired such Ordinary Shares in a private placement, could have an adverse effect on the market price of Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares.
Future issuances of debt securities, which would rank senior to Diginex Limited Ordinary Shares upon our bankruptcy or liquidation, and future issuances of preferred shares, which could rank senior to Diginex Limited Ordinary Shares for the purposes of dividends and liquidating distributions, may adversely affect the level of return you may be able to achieve from an investment in Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares.
In the future, Diginex Limited may attempt to increase our capital resources by offering debt securities. Upon bankruptcy or liquidation, holders of Diginex Limited debt securities, and lenders with respect to other borrowings Diginex Limited may make, would receive distributions of Diginex Limited available assets prior to any distributions being made to holders of our Ordinary Shares. Moreover, if Diginex Limited issues Preferred Shares, the holders of such preferred shares could be entitled to preferences over holders of Ordinary Shares in respect of the payment of dividends and the payment of liquidating distributions. Because Diginex Limited’s decision to issue debt or Preferred Shares in any future offering, or borrow money from lenders, will depend in part on market conditions and other factors beyond Diginex Limited’s control, Diginex Limited cannot predict or estimate the amount, timing or nature of any such future offerings or borrowings. Holders of Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares must bear the risk that any future offerings Diginex Limited conducts or borrowings Diginex Limited makes may adversely affect the level of return, if any, they may be able to achieve from an investment in Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares.]
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The trading price of Diginex Limited’ Ordinary Shares may be volatile, which could result in substantial losses to investors.
The trading price of Diginex Limited’ Ordinary Shares is likely to be volatile and could fluctuate widely due to factors beyond Diginex Limited’s control. This may happen due to broad market and industry factors, such as performance and fluctuation in the market prices or underperformance or deteriorating financial results of other listed companies based in Hong Kong. The securities of some of these companies have experienced significant volatility since their initial public offerings, including, in some cases, substantial price declines in the trading prices of their securities. The trading performances of other Hong Kong companies’ securities after their offerings may affect the attitudes of investors towards Hong Kong-based, U.S.-listed companies, which consequently may affect the trading performance of Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares regardless of its actual operating performance. In addition, any negative news or perceptions about inadequate corporate governance practices or fraudulent accounting, corporate structure, or matters of other Hong Kong companies may also negatively affect the attitudes of investors towards Hong Kong companies in general, including Diginex Limited, regardless of whether it has conducted any inappropriate activities. Furthermore, securities markets may from time-to-time experience significant price and volume fluctuations that are not related to Diginex Limited’s operating performance, which may materially and adversely affect the trading price of its Ordinary Shares.
In addition to the above factors, the price and trading volume of Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares may be highly volatile due to multiple factors, including the following:
● | regulatory developments affecting Diginex Limited or its industry; | |
● | variations in Diginex Limited’s revenue, profit, and cash flow; | |
● | changes in the economic performance or market valuations of other financial services firms; | |
● | actual or anticipated fluctuations in Diginex Limited’s quarterly results of operations and changes or revisions of its expected results; | |
● | changes in financial estimates by securities research analysts; | |
● | detrimental negative publicity about Diginex Limited, its services, its officers, directors, shareholders, other beneficial owners, its business partners, or its industry; | |
● | announcements by Diginex Limited or Diginex Limited competitors of new service offerings, acquisitions, strategic relationships, joint ventures, capital raises, or capital commitments; | |
● | litigation or regulatory proceedings involving Diginex Limited, its officers, directors, or shareholders; and | |
● | sales or perceived potential sales of additional Ordinary Shares. |
Any of these factors may result in large and sudden changes in the volume and price at which Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares will trade. In the past, shareholders of public companies have often brought securities class action suits against those companies following periods of instability in the market price of their securities. If Diginex Limited were involved in a class action suit, it could divert a significant amount of its management’s attention and other resources from its business and operations and require it to incur significant expenses to defend the suit, which could harm Diginex Limited’s results of operations. Any such class action suit, whether or not successful, could harm Diginex Limited’s reputation and restrict its ability to raise capital in the future. In addition, if a claim is successfully made against Diginex Limited, it may be required to pay significant damages, which could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition and results of operations.
Our insiders will beneficially own approximately 48.6% of our total issued and outstanding Ordinary Shares upon the consummation of this Offering, which may limit your ability to influence our actions.
Our insiders are expected to beneficially own approximately 48.6% of our issued and outstanding Ordinary Shares upon the consummation of this Offering (47.8% if the underwriters exercise their over-allotment option in full) and will have the power to exert considerable influence over our actions through their ability to effectively control matters requiring shareholder approval, including the determination to enter into a corporate transaction or to prevent a transaction, regardless of whether other shareholders believe that any such transaction is in their or our best interests. We cannot assure you that the interests of [our insiders] will coincide with the interests of other shareholders. As a result, the market price of our Ordinary Shares could be adversely affected. Additionally, Our insiders may effectively control all of our corporate decisions so long as they continue to own a substantial number of our Ordinary Shares.
Short sellers of Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares may be manipulative and may drive down the market price of its Ordinary Shares.
Short sellers of Diginex Limited stock may be manipulative and may attempt to drive down the market price of Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares. Short selling is the practice of selling securities that the seller does not own but rather has borrowed or intends to borrow from a third party with the intention of buying identical securities at a later date to return to the lender. A short seller hopes to profit from a decline in the value of the securities, as the short seller expects to pay less in the covering purchase than it received in the sale. It is therefore in the short seller’s interest for the price of the stock to decline, and some short sellers publish, or arrange for the publication of, opinions or characterizations regarding the relevant issuer, often involving deliberate misrepresentations of the issuer’s business prospects and similar matters calculated to create negative market momentum.
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As a public entity in a highly digital world, Diginex Limited may be the subject of concerted efforts by profiteering short sellers to spread misinformation and misrepresentations in order to gain an illegal market advantage. In addition, the publication of intentional misinformation may also result in lawsuits, the uncertainty and expense of which could adversely impact Diginex Limited’s business, financial condition, and reputation.
While utilizing all available tools to defend itself and its assets against these short seller efforts, there is limited regulatory control, making such efforts an ongoing concern for any public company. While Diginex Limited moves forward in its business development strategies in good faith, there are no assurances that Diginex Limited will not face these short sellers’ efforts or similar tactics by bad actors in the future, and the market price of its Ordinary Shares may decline as a result of their actions or the action of other short sellers.
Volatility in our Ordinary Shares price may subject us to securities litigation.
The market for our Ordinary Shares may have, when compared to seasoned issuers, significant price volatility and we expect that our share price may continue to be more volatile than that of a seasoned issuer for the indefinite future. In the past, plaintiffs have often initiated securities class action litigation against a company following periods of volatility in the market price of its securities. We may, in the future, be the target of similar litigation. Securities litigation could result in substantial costs and liabilities and could divert management’s attention and resources.
We have broad discretion in the use of the net proceeds from this Offering and may not use them effectively.
Our management will have broad discretion in the application of the net proceeds, including for any of the purposes described in the section entitled “Use of Proceeds,” and you will not have the opportunity as part of your investment decision to assess whether the net proceeds are being used appropriately. Because of the number and variability of factors that will determine our use of the net proceeds from this Offering, their ultimate use may vary substantially from their currently intended use. The failure by our management to apply these funds effectively could harm our business.
The future sales of Ordinary Shares by existing shareholders, including the sales pursuant to the Resale Prospectus, may adversely affect the market price of our Ordinary Shares.
As a relatively small-capitalization company with relatively small public float we may experience greater stock price volatility, extreme price run-ups, lower trading volume and less liquidity than large-capitalization companies. The Ordinary Shares registered for resale as part of the Resale Prospectus, once registered, will constitute a considerable percentage of our public float. Sales of a substantial number of our Ordinary Shares in the public market could occur at any time. The sales of a substantial number of registered shares could result in a significant decline in the public trading price of our Ordinary Shares and could impair our ability to raise capital through the sale or issuance of additional Ordinary Shares. We are unable to predict the effect that such sales may have on the prevailing market price of our Ordinary Shares. Despite such a decline in the public trading price, certain Selling Shareholder may still experience a positive rate of return on the Ordinary Shares due to the lower price that they purchased the Ordinary Shares compared to other public investors and may be incentivized to sell their Ordinary Shares when others are not.
General Risks
If Diginex Limited is unable to successfully identify, hire and retain skilled individuals, it will not be able to implement its growth strategy successfully.
Diginex Limited’s growth strategy is based, in part, on its ability to attract and retain highly skilled professionals including software engineers. To date, Diginex Limited has been able to locate and engage such employees; however, because of competition from other firms, Diginex Limited may face difficulties in recruiting and retaining professionals of a caliber consistent with its business strategy in the future. If Diginex Limited is unable to successfully identify and retain qualified professionals, it could materially and adversely affect Diginex Limited’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
Diginex Limited’s employee retention plans may not be sufficient to retain key employees, including as it relates to equity compensation plans in place now and in the future.
Competition, including from new market entrants in the future, may cause Diginex Limited’s revenue and earnings to decline.
With the increased importance placed on ESG reporting there could be new market entrants that directly compete with Diginex Limited. Such competitors may have significant competitive advantages, including, the ability to leverage their sales efforts and marketing expenditures across a broader portfolio of services, greater global presence, more established third-party relationships, greater brand recognition, greater financial strength, greater numbers of company and investor clients, larger research and development teams, larger marketing budgets and other advantages over Diginex Limited.
While Diginex Limited believes its products, services and pricing differentiates it from many such competitors, the business has relatively low barriers to entry and Diginex Limited anticipates that such barriers to entry will become lower in the future. This could lead to fee compression or require Diginex to spend more to modify or adapt its offerings to attract and retain customers and remain competitive with the products and services offered by new competitors in the industry. Increased competition on the basis of any of these factors, including competition leading to fee reductions, could materially and negatively impact Diginex Limited’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
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Diginex Limited’s business lines rely on vendors and third-party service providers.
Diginex Limited’s operations could be interrupted or disrupted if Diginex Limited’s vendors and third-party service providers, or even the vendors of such vendors and third-party service providers, experience operational or other systems difficulties, terminate their service, fail to comply with regulations, raise their prices or dispute key intellectual property rights sold or licensed to, or developed for, Diginex Limited. Diginex Limited may also suffer the consequences of such vendors and third-party providers’ mistakes. Diginex Limited outsources some of its operational and a large component of its product development and platform maintenance activities and accordingly depends on key relationships with vendors. For example, Diginex Limited relies on vendors and third parties for certain services, including systems development and maintenance and hosting servers. The failure or capacity restraints of vendors and third-party services, a cybersecurity breach involving any third-party service providers or the termination or change in terms or price of a vendors and third-party software license or service agreement on which Diginex Limited relies could interrupt Diginex Limited’s operations. Replacing vendors and third-party service providers or addressing other issues with Diginex Limited’s vendors and third-party service providers could entail significant delay, expense and disruption of service. As a result, if these vendors and third-party service providers experience difficulties, are subject to cybersecurity breaches, terminate their services, dispute the terms intellectual property agreements, or raise their prices, and Diginex Limited is unable to replace them with other vendors and service providers, particularly on a timely basis, Diginex Limited’s operations could be interrupted. If an interruption were to continue for a significant period, Diginex Limited’s business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected. Even if Diginex Limited can replace vendors and third-party providers, it may be at a higher cost to Diginex Limited, which could also adversely affect Diginex Limited’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
Finally, notwithstanding Diginex Limited’s efforts to implement and enforce strong policies and practices regarding third-party service providers, Diginex Limited may not successfully detect and prevent fraud, incompetence or theft by its third-party service providers, which could adversely affect Diginex Limited’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
Diginex Limited could be the victim of employee misconduct.
In recent years, there have been a number of highly publicized cases involving fraud, conflicts of interest, or other misconduct by employees, and there is a risk that an employee of, or contractor to, Diginex Limited or any of its affiliates could engage in misconduct that adversely affects Diginex Limited’s business. It is not always possible to deter such misconduct, and the precautions Diginex Limited takes to detect and prevent such misconduct may not be effective in all cases. Misconduct by an employee of, or contractor to, Diginex Limited or any of its affiliates, or even unsubstantiated allegations of such misconduct, could result in direct financial harm to Diginex Limited.
Diginex Limited may not be able to effectively manage its growth.
As Diginex Limited grows its business, its employee headcount and the scope and complexity of its business lines may increase dramatically. Consequently, if Diginex Limited’s business grows at a rapid pace, it may experience difficulties maintaining this growth and building the appropriate processes and controls. Growth may increase the strain on resources, cause operating difficulties, including difficulties in sourcing, logistics, maintaining internal controls, marketing, designing products and services and meeting customer needs.
In addition, Diginex Limited currently operates and is seeking to run many business lines and, while these business lines are anticipated to be complimentary, there can be no assurance that Diginex Limited will be able to effectively deliver internal or external resources effectively to each business line as and when needed, particularly when multiple business lines are experiencing high levels of need at the same time.
If Diginex Limited does not adapt to meet these challenges, it could have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition and results of operations.
Operational risk may materially and adversely affect Diginex Limited’s performance and results.
Operational risk is the risk of an adverse outcome resulting from inadequate or failed internal processes, people, systems or external events. Diginex Limited’s exposure to operational risk arises from routine processing errors, as well as extraordinary incidents, such as major systems failures or legal matters. Because Diginex Limited’s business lines are reliant on both technology and human expertise and execution, Diginex Limited is exposed to material operational risk arising from a number of factors, including, but not limited to, human error, processing and communication errors, errors of third-party service providers, counterparties or other third parties, failed or inadequate processes, design flaws and technology or system failures and malfunctions.
Operational errors or significant operational delays could have a materially negative impact on Diginex Limited’s ability to conduct its business or service its clients, which could adversely affect results of operations due to potentially higher expenses and lower revenues, create liability for Diginex Limited or its clients or negatively impact its reputation.
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Diginex Limited may not be effective in mitigating risk.
Diginex Limited continues to develop, risk management and oversight policies and procedures to provide a sound operational environment for the types of risk to which it is subject, including operational risk, credit risk, market risk and liquidity risk. However, as with any risk management framework, there are inherent limitations to Diginex Limited’s current and future risk management strategies, including risks that it has not appropriately anticipated or identified and that certain policies may be insufficient. Accurate and timely enterprise-wide risk information is necessary to enhance management’s decision-making in times of crisis. If Diginex Limited’s risk management framework proves ineffective or if Diginex Limited’s enterprise-wide management information is incomplete or inaccurate, it could suffer unexpected losses or fail to generate the expected revenue, which could materially and adversely affect its business, financial condition and results of operations.
Diginex Limited was incorporated as an exempted company with limited liability under the laws of the Cayman Islands on January 26, 2024. Upon incorporation, 1 ordinary share of Diginex Limited was issued to Rhino Ventures Limited. Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited (“DSL”) was incorporated under the laws of Hong Kong on January 8, 2018. DSL commenced operations in 2020.
The Restructuring
On July 15, 2024, Diginex Limited and Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited (“DSL”) completed a restructuring pursuant to a share exchange agreement (the “Share Exchange Agreement”), whereby the then existing shareholders of DSL (the “Original Shareholders”) transferred all of their shares in DSL to Diginex Limited, in consideration for Diginex Limited’s issuance of substantially the same securities to such shareholders in exchange for the securities of DSL held by Original Shareholders (the “Exchange”). Prior to the Exchange there were 16,756 ordinary shares of DSL issued and outstanding, 3,151 preferred shares of DSL issued and outstanding and 10,172 warrants of DSL issued and outstanding. In the Exchange, each of the securities of DSL were exchanged for substantially the same securities of Diginex Limited at an exchange ratio of one (1) ordinary share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited , one (1) preferred share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Preferred Shares of Diginex Limited and one (1) warrant of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) warrants of Diginex Limited.
Prior to the Exchange on May 28, 2023, DSL agreed to an $8,000,000 share subscription agreement with Rhino Ventures Limited and on September 28, 2023 executed a subscription agreement (the “RVL Subscription Agreement”). Pursuant to the RVL Subscription Agreement, DSL issued Rhino Ventures Limited 5,086 ordinary shares and 10,172 warrants in exchange for $8.0 million. The warrants will be exercisable for ordinary shares of DSL for a period of three years from the date they are issued and shall be exercisable at a per warrant price of US$2,512. Post the completion of the Restructuring and Share Subdivision (as defined below), the number of warrants of Diginex Limited issued to Rhino Ventures Limited was adjusted to 4,170,520 from 10,172 with an adjusted price per warrant of US$6.13. The warrants, if fully exercised, will result in the issuance of such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 51% of the total issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of the warrants being exercised. This will be prorated for partial exercise of warrants. Rhino Ventures Limited paid the subscription price by the payment of $6.1 million in cash and the forgiveness of $1.9 million of debt due to Rhino Ventures Limited. The RVL Subscription Agreement also activated an anti-dilution clause in the Articles of Association of DSL which resulted in HBM IV, Inc. being issued 151 preferred shares of DSL for zero consideration. This increased HBM IV, Inc.’s holding to 3,151 preferred shares of DSL.
In connection with the Exchange, Diginex Limited and security holders of DSL consummated the following transactions (the “Ancillary Transactions”): (i) Diginex Limited issued $4.35 million new convertible loan notes to certain Original Shareholders in consideration for the cancellation of the then existing convertible loan notes issued by DSL and held by such Original Shareholders; (ii) Diginex Limited granted certain share options under the new share option plan that was adopted by Diginex Limited to the holders of the unexercised share options granted by DSL (the “Original Share Options”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Share Options held by such holders. At time of the Exchange there were 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting and (iii) Diginex Limited granted certain warrants to purchase Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited to the holders of the then existing warrants to purchase ordinary shares of DSL (the “Original Warrants”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Warrants held by such holders. The convertible loan notes will automatically convert into Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited upon the effectiveness of this registration statement and whilst there is no automatic vesting of any unvested share options upon completion of this Offering the board of directors, at their discretion, do have the ability to accelerate vesting at any point. At the time of this registration statement there was no confirmation if the board of directors will accelerate vesting. The fair value of all unvested ESOP as of the date of this registration statement is $1.8 million of which $0.2 million was recognized in the combined financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2024.
Accordingly, upon consummation of the Exchange and the Ancillary Transactions (collectively the “Restructuring”), DSL became a wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited, and the prior shareholders of DSL became shareholders of Diginex Limited. The remaining DSL security holders became security holders of Diginex Limited, in that they held Diginex Limited convertible loan notes, share options and warrants. Following, the closing of the Restructuring there is 6,869,961 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited issued and outstanding, 1,291,910 preferred shares of Diginex Limited issued and outstanding, 4,179,520 warrants issued and outstanding, $4.35 million new convertible loan notes issued and outstanding and 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares capital of the Company at the time of vesting.
Following the Restructuring, on July 26, 2024, the Company completed a share subdivision (the “Share Subdivision”) such that, the authorized share capital of the Company was revised to be US$50,000 divided into 960,000,000 Ordinary Shares of US$0.00005 par value each and 40,000,000 preferred shares (the “Preferred Shares”), par value US$0.00005 per share. Prior to the Share Subdivision there were 6,869,961 ordinary shares and 1,291,910 preferred shares issued and outstanding, and after the Share Subdivision there are 13,739,922 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding.
During the Restructuring, a $1 million loan due from DSL to a related company, Diginex Holdings Limited, a company controlled by Rhino Ventures Limited, was converted into a $1 million convertible loan note of which Rhino Ventures Limited holds $517,535 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note and Working Capital Innovation Fund II L.P. holds $482,465 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note. The loan between DSL and Diginex Holdings Limited charged interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. The terms of the new convertible loan notes also charge interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. This $1 million convertible loan note forms part of the $4.35 million loan notes issued by Diginex Limited post the Restructuring.
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On August 6, 2024 certain Employee Share Option Plan (“ESOP”) holders exercised their options and converted their options into Ordinary Shares. 501,840 employee share options were converted into 1,003,680 Ordinary Shares whilst 109,470 employee share options lapsed without being exercised. In addition, 368,826 employee share options were issued on July 31, 2024 and on August 21, 2024 employee share options were issued to 0.5% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting. The remaining employee share options as at the time of this registration statement are 41,945 vested but not exercised, 368,826 unvested employee share options and unvested employee share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.7% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting. Prior to the exercise of 501,840 options on August 6, 2024 there were 13,739,922 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding, and after such exercise of 501,840 options there are 14,743,602 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding.
Since 17th November 2023, Rhino Ventures Limited (“RVL”) issued convertible notes (the “Rhino Notes”) to various investors (each a “Rhino Investor” and collectively the “Rhino Investors”). In exchange for a loan from a Rhino Investor, RVL issued the Rhino Investor a Rhino Note. The Rhino Notes are convertible into DSL ordinary shares, or successor securities, that were owned by RVL at a conversion price of between USD2.78 to USD2.99. The Rhino Notes were convertible into RVL’s shares of DSL ordinary shares, or successor securities, (1) at the option of the Rhino Investor or (2) automatically upon F-1 either being effective or having received 2 or below comments. On August 7, 2024, six of the Rhino Investors elected to convert their Rhino Notes and RVL transferred an aggregate amount of 2,992,180 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited, the successor securities to the DSL ordinary shares, to the six Rhino Investors as follows: (i) Samantha Dolan received 327,189 Ordinary Shares, (ii) Christopher Lord received 418,200 Ordinary Shares, (iii) Dorota Menard received 400,980 Ordinary Shares, (iv) Gildo Plate received 294,380 Ordinary Shares and (v) Natalia Pelham received 1,049,600 Ordinary Shares and (vi) Benjamin Salter received 501,840 Ordinary Shares. Currently, there are eight Rhino Investors that hold Rhino Notes which are collectively convertible into an aggregate amount of 1,775,300 Ordinary Shares. RVL may issue additional Rhino Notes prior to the completion of this Offering. Other than Natalia Pelham, who is our Chairman’s wife, the Rhino Investors are not related to Mr. Pelham nor are they affiliates to the Company. As of the date of this registration statement RVL holds 9,333,242 Ordinary Shares, which does not include the reduction for RVL’s Ordinary Shares that will be issued upon the conversion of the outstanding Rhino Notes.
DSL, Diginex Limited’s wholly owned subsidiary, currently owes RVL $2.4 million under a loan agreement, dated September 29, 2024 (“RVL Loan”), and RVL will continue to fund Diginex Limited, via DSL through the completion of this Offering. Diginex Limited and RVL have agreed that RVL shall convert up to $3 million of the RVL Loan into Ordinary Shares upon the pricing of this Offering at the IPO offering price. Based on the assumed offering price of $5.00 per share, upon the pricing of the Offering, RVL’s loan, assuming loan balance of $3 million, the RVL Loan will convert into 600,000 Ordinary Shares. In exchange for RVL’s conversion of the RVL Loan into Ordinary Shares, Diginex Limited has agreed to provide RVL registration rights with respect to the Ordinary Shares that RVL receives upon conversion of the RVL Loan. The conversion of the RVL Loan is in addition to the conversion of the RVL convertible loan note with a principal balance of $517,535. The RVL Loan is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.9.
Below is a table of the shares exchanged pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement and subsequent Share Subdivision:
Name of Shareholder | Number of DSL Shares | Number of Diginex Limited Shares | Post Share
Subdivision Number of Diginex Limited Shares | |||||||||
Rhino Ventures Limited | 15,031 | (1) | 6,162,711 | (3) | 12,325,422 | (3) | ||||||
HBM IV, Inc. | 3,151 | (2) | 1,291,910 | (4) | 2,583,820 | (4) | ||||||
Nalimz Holding Limited | 1,111 | (1) | 455,510 | (3) | 911,020 | (3) | ||||||
Working Capital Innovation Fund II, L.P. | 369 | (1) | 151,290 | (3) | 302,580 | (3) | ||||||
Hafnia SG Pte Ltd | 157 | (1) | 64,370 | (3) | 128,740 | (3) | ||||||
Loretta Wong | 44 | (1) | 18,040 | (3) | 36,080 | (3) | ||||||
Gerard Coenen Gajardo | 44 | (1) | 18,040 | (3) | 36,080 | (3) |
(1) | These are DSL Ordinary Shares. |
(2) | These are DSL Preferred Shares. |
(3) | These are Diginex Limited Ordinary Shares. |
(4) | These are Diginex Limited Preferred Shares. |
In connection with Restructuring and following the Share Exchange Agreement, Diginex Limited consummated the following transactions also occurred:
(i) Cancellation and Issuance of Convertible Notes. Diginex Limited issued new convertible loan notes to certain Original Shareholders in consideration for the cancellation of the then existing convertible loan notes issued by DSL held by such Original Shareholder. The new convertible loan notes (the “New Convertible Notes”) provide that the New Convertible Notes provide for the payment of interest at a rate of 8% per annum and will automatically convert into Ordinary Shares upon the effectiveness of this registration statement at a conversion price equal to US$1.67. Except the New Convertible Notes issued to HBM IV, Inc. provides for the payment of interest at a rate of 8% per annum and will automatically convert into preferred shares of Diginex Limited upon the effectiveness of this registration statement at a conversion price equal to US$1.67.
Below is a table of the Cancellation and Issuance of Convertible Notes:
Name of Noteholder | Amount of DSL Convertible Notes | Amount of Diginex Limited Convertible Note | ||||||
HBM IV, Inc. (1) | US$2,000,000 | US$2,000,000 | ||||||
Nalimz Holdings Limited(2) | US$1,000,000 | US$1,000,000 | ||||||
Working Capital Innovation Fund II, L.P. (3) | US$582,465 | US$582,465 | ||||||
Rhino Ventures Limited(4) | US$517,535 | US$517,535 | ||||||
Hafnia SG Pte Ltd. (5) | US$250,000 | US$250,000 |
(1) New Convertible Note between Diginex Limited and HBM IV, Inc. is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.2.
(2) New Convertible Note between Diginex Limited and Nalimz Holdings Limited is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.3.
(3) New Convertible Note between Diginex Limited and Working Capital Innovation Fund II, L.P. is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.4.
(4) New Convertible Note between Diginex Limited and Rhino Ventures Limited is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.5.
(5) New Convertible Note between Diginex Limited and Hafnia SG Pte Ltd. is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.6.
(ii) Cancellation and Issuance of Share Options. Diginex Limited granted certain share options (the “New Options”) under the new option plan that was adopted by Diginex Limited to the holders of the unexercised share options granted by DSL (the “Original Share Options”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Share Options held by such holders. The unvested New Option will automatically vest upon the completion of this Offering. A copy of the form of the cancellation and issuance agreements for the Original Share Options and the New Options (the “Option Cancellation and Issuance Agreement”) is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.7
(iii) Cancellation and Issuance of Warrants. Diginex Limited granted certain warrants (the “New Warrants”) to purchase Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited to the holders of the then existing warrants to purchase ordinary shares of DSL (the “Original Warrants”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Warrants held by such holders. There is no automatic conversion associated with the warrants. The New Warrants are exercisable at a price of US$6.13 for a term of 3 years from May 27, 2024.
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Below is a table of the Cancellation and Issuance of Warrants:
Name of Warrant holder | Number of DSL Warrant | Number of Diginex Limited Warrants | ||||||
Rhino Ventures Limited(1) | 10,172 | 4,170,520 |
(1) The New Warrant issued to Rhino Ventures Limited is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.8
Following the consummation of the Restructuring, DSL became a wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited, and the former shareholders and securityholders of DSL became shareholders and securityholders of Diginex Limited. Following the Restructuring, Diginex Limited has subsidiaries located in Hong Kong, United Kingdom and United States of America. Diginex Limited is the sole owner of DSL, and through DSL the sole owner of (i) Diginex Services Limited, a corporation formed in the United Kingdom and (ii) Diginex USA LLC, a limited liability company formed in the State of Delaware.
The following table sets forth Diginex Limited’s combined statement of financial position as of March 31, 2024 on an actual basis after giving effect to the Restructuring and on a pro forma basis after giving effect to the Restructuring, conversion of outstanding convertible loan notes, preferred shares and short term debt consisting of amounts received on account of the investment from Rhino Ventures Limited which completed on 28 May 2024, a related party loan that was converted into a convertible loan note and the share subdivision. This table should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our audited combined financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus.
As of March 31, 2024 | ||||||||||
Actual | Pro Forma (Unaudited) | |||||||||
Notes | ||||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||||
Right-of-use assets | $ | 357,202 | 357,202 | |||||||
Rental deposit | 35,431 | 35,431 | ||||||||
Total non-current assets | 392,633 | 392,633 | ||||||||
Trade Receivables, net | 182,334 | 182,334 | ||||||||
Contract assets | 69,354 | 69,354 | ||||||||
Other receivables, deposit and prepayment | 253,476 | 253,476 | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 76,620 | 76,620 | ||||||||
Total current assets | 581,784 | 581,784 | ||||||||
LIABILITIES | ||||||||||
Trade payables | (788,798 | ) | (788,798 | ) | ||||||
Other payables and accruals | (596,870 | ) | (596,870 | ) | ||||||
Tax payables | (8,917 | ) | (8,917 | ) | ||||||
Deferred revenue | (322,826 | ) | (322,826 | ) | ||||||
Due to a related company | (34,579 | ) | (34,579 | ) | ||||||
Due to immediate holding company | 1 | (5,345,929 | ) | - | ||||||
Loans from immediate holding company | 1 | (1,930,993 | ) | - | ||||||
Loan from a related company | 2 | (1,140,931 | ) | - | ||||||
Lease liabilities | (122,076 | ) | (122,076 | ) | ||||||
Convertible loan notes | 3 | (3,975,534 | ) | - | ||||||
Total current liabilities | (14,267,453 | ) | (1,874,066 | ) | ||||||
Lease liabilities | (243,280 | ) | (243,280 | ) | ||||||
Preferred shares | 4 | (9,359,000 | ) | - | ||||||
Convertible loan notes | 3 | (114,808 | ) | - | ||||||
Total non-current liabilities | (9,717,088 | ) | (243,280 | ) | ||||||
Net current liabilities | (13,685,669 | ) | (1,292,282 | ) | ||||||
Net Liabilities | (23,010,124 | ) | (1,142,929 | ) | ||||||
Total Stockholders’ equity: | ||||||||||
Share Capital | 477 | 965 | ||||||||
Share Premium | - | 15,213,707 | ||||||||
Capital Reserve | 3,752,192 | 3,752,192 | ||||||||
Exchange reserve | (1,681 | ) | (1,681 | ) | ||||||
Warrant reserve | - | 6,653,000 | ||||||||
Share option reserve | 2,409,689 | 2,409,689 | ||||||||
Accumulated deficit | (29,170,801 | ) | (29,170,801 | ) | ||||||
Total stockholders’ equity/(deficit) | (23,010,124 | ) | (1,142,929 | ) |
Notes:
1. | At March 31, 2024, $7,276,922 of a $8,000,000 investment from Rhino Ventures Limited had been received by the Company. The amounts received had been classified as ‘Due to an immediate holding company’ ($5.3m) and ‘Loans from immediate holding company’ ($1.9m). The investment was complete on May 28, 2024 and the amounts received were converted into 5,086 Ordinary Shares. The proforma shows the impact on amounts received, share capital and share premium. | |
2. | The loan from a related party was transferred to a convertible loan note in July 2024. It is held by both Working Capital Innovation Fund II, L.P. and Rhino Ventures Limited. The proforma shows the impact to the loan, share capital and share premium on the conversion to Ordinary Shares on this registration statement being declared effective. As per the convertible loan agreement, the convertible loan notes will convert into Ordinary Shares at the lower of 20% discount to the listing price or $60 million valuation on a fully diluted basis. The resultant conversion price was $1.67. | |
3. | The proforma shows the impact to the outstanding convertible loan notes, share capital and share premium on the conversion of convertible loan notes to Ordinary Shares on this registration statement being declared effective. As per the convertible loan agreement, the convertible loan notes will convert into Ordinary Shares at the lower of 20% discount to the listing price or $60 million valuation on a fully diluted basis. The resultant conversion price was $1.67. | |
4. | The proforma shows the impact to the outstanding preferred shares, share capital and share premium on the conversion of preferred shares to Ordinary Shares on this registration statement being declared effective. Preferred shares are converted into Ordinary shares on a one to one basis. |
“ESG” is the most recent evolution in corporate sustainability thinking, and it encapsulates a series of Environmental, Social, and Governance-related criteria to measure and evaluate both business impacts as well as risks and opportunities.
- | Environmental (E): This pillar focuses on a company’s impact on the natural environment as well as how it manages environmental risks and opportunities. It includes considerations like carbon emissions, energy use, waste management, water conservation, biodiversity loss, and compliance with environmental regulations. | |
- | Social (S): This dimension focuses on a company’s impact on society and how it treats different groups of people, including employees, suppliers, customers, and the communities where it operates. It also addresses people-related risks and opportunities for the company. Key issues include workplace health & safety, diversity & inclusion, human rights and forced labor, data protection, and community engagement. | |
- | Governance (G): This component refers to the structures, processes and internal controls a company uses to guide its operations. Internally, it encompasses leadership structures, executive pay, ethical and corporate guidelines, and decision-making processes. Externally, it involves stakeholder engagement, compliance with regulations, and transparent disclosure practices. |
In the modern business landscape, ESG considerations have emerged as paramount. Corporate governance, sustainability and the consideration of environmental and social concerns are not new to the business world. But as global ESG-related challenges like climate change, societal inequalities, and corporate scandals become more pronounced and understood, the importance of ESG factors has soared. Key stakeholders, including consumers, investors, and regulators, now increasingly demand transparency and accountability on these fronts.
- | Corporate disclosure and ESG-related regulations are on the rise globally, with regulators increasingly mandating standardized and transparent reporting of companies’ ESG performance to ensure stakeholders, particularly investors, have access to comprehensive, comparable, and reliable information. The European Union and the US currently lead in regulatory developments, starting with a focus on financial market participants, large corporations and climate-related disclosures. | |
- | Investor interest in ESG is rising exponentially, reshaping the financial landscape and putting increased pressure on corporates to disclose ESG performance data. ESG-oriented assets under management (AUM) are likely to significantly grow in the EU, more than double in the United States, and triple in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region by 2026. In turn, the global sustainable lending and bond market size has multiplied in the last years and is expected to keep its pace. | |
- | Consumer demands are putting additional pressure on transparency and ESG performance. Growing concerns about environmental challenges as well as greater expectations around societal issues have brought sustainability into the mainstream. As a result, consumers increasingly prioritize environmental and social responsibility in their purchasing decisions with a growing demand for sustainable products and companies. |
A key characteristic of the ESG movement is its reliance on data and measurable metrics. In contrast to previous corporate sustainability movements (e.g., CSR) which often involved self-regulated practices and policies, ESG is grounded on quantifiable and comparable data based on specific metrics to validate outcomes and performance. As such, regulatory pressures, investor interest and changing consumer demands are putting significant pressure on corporates to produce, manage and disclosure ESG performance data, relating to both their own business as well as their supply chain.
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As ESG becomes integral to business strategies, investor criteria, and regulatory compliance, there is a growing need for specialized tools to handle ESG data. As the volume and complexity of ESG data, disclosure and performance requirements increase, tools that can gather, analyze, and present this information in a cohesive manner that adheres to key requirements become indispensable. In an environment where ESG performance and disclosure can directly influence investor decisions, brand reputation, and regulatory compliance, having precise and comprehensive ESG software tools is crucial for businesses. Three prominent examples of ESG software include:
- | ESG reporting and data management software, which generally facilitates the systematic collection, organization, and presentation of a company’s ESG performance data. It provides a structured platform for businesses to document and report their sustainability and ethical initiatives, ensuring transparency and adherence to established standards. Such software is instrumental in meeting the increasing demands of stakeholders, regulators, and investors for comprehensive and verifiable ESG disclosures. | |
- | Carbon management software, which generally helps businesses to quantify, monitor, and manage their Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. By providing insights into carbon-producing activities and their implications, this type of software typically aids in the formulation of strategies to reduce carbon footprints. Companies use these tools to align with environmental standards, regulatory requirements, and sustainability goals. | |
- | Supply chain sustainability software, which generally assists companies in overseeing the sustainability practices within their supply chain, providing tools to evaluate and ensure that suppliers and partners adhere to prescribed ethical, environmental, and social standards. By providing a holistic view of the supply chain’s sustainability performance, this type of software supports companies in maintaining integrity throughout their operations, mitigating risks and reinforcing commitment to responsible sourcing and production. |
The market for ESG software is already experiencing rapid growth and is expected to keep its pace over the coming years.
- | The ESG reporting & data management software market was estimated to be worth USD 0.7 billion in 2022. Estimates for its projected growth vary from USD 1.5 billion to USD 4.35 billion by 2027, showcasing robust compound annual growth rates of anywhere between 15.9% and 30% over the next 5 years. | |
- | The carbon management software market reached a size of USD 343 million in 2021, with growth at a CAGR of 28% to reach USD 1.4 billion in 2027, influenced by upcoming mandatory climate-related regulations from 2024 to 2026, as well as macroeconomic and voluntary drivers. | |
- | The supply chain sustainability software market was worth over USD 991 million in 2021 and will grow to nearly USD 4.3 billion in 2027, at a CAGR of 28%. |
As ESG becomes increasingly important, companies are not only looking for software to gain operational efficiencies and streamline their reporting, data management, and compliance processes. Corporates are also increasingly relying on consulting services to support them in their sustainability and ESG programs. ESG consulting covers a wide range of services, including support for ESG & sustainability corporate strategy, digital transformation, corporate reporting and disclosures, operational transformation, product stewardship and supply chain sustainability, among others. In par with the software market, investment in ESG and sustainability consulting reached USD 6 billion in 2021 and forecasts a global CAGR of 17% to reach USD 16 billion by 20271.
1 Verdantix 2022 ESG and Sustainability Consulting: Market Size and Forecast 2021-2027
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CAPITALIZATION AND INDEBTEDNESS
The following table sets forth Diginex Limited’s cash and cash equivalents, short term investments, indebtedness, and capitalization as of March 31, 2024 on an actual basis after giving effect to the Restructuring and on a pro forma basis after giving effect to the Restructuring, the conversion of outstanding convertible loan notes, preferred shares and short term debt consisting of amounts received on account of the investment from Rhino Ventures Limited which completed on 28 May 2024, a related party loan that was converted into a convertible loan note and the share subdivision. The Adjusted pro forma basis takes into the account the impact of the a Offering, assuming the Restructuring, the conversion of outstanding convertible loan notes, preferred shares and short term debt consisting of amounts received on account of the investment from Rhino Ventures Limited which completed on 28 May 2024, a related party loan that was converted into a convertible loan note, the share subdivision and the Offering was consummated as of March 31, 2024. This table should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our audited combined financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus.
As of March 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||
Actual | Pro Forma | Adjusted Pro Forma | ||||||||||||||
Notes | (Unaudited) | |||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 5 | $ | 76,620 | 76,620 | 8,626,965 | |||||||||||
Debt: | ||||||||||||||||
Due to a related company | 34,579 | 34,579 | 34,579 | |||||||||||||
Due to immediate holding company | 1 | 5,345,929 | - | - | ||||||||||||
Loans from immediate holding company | 1 | 1,930,993 | - | - | ||||||||||||
Loan from related company | 2 | 1,140,931 | - | - | ||||||||||||
Capitalized lease obligation | 365,356 | 365,356 | 365,356 | |||||||||||||
Convertible loan notes – current | 3 | 3,975,534 | - | - | ||||||||||||
Convertible loan notes – non current | 3 | 114,808 | - | - | ||||||||||||
Preferred shares | 4 | 9,359,000 | - | - | ||||||||||||
Total Stockholders’ equity: | ||||||||||||||||
Share Capital | 477 | 965 | 1,078 | |||||||||||||
Share Premium | - | 15,213,707 | 23,763,939 | |||||||||||||
Capital Reserve | 3,752,192 | 3,752,192 | 3,752,192 | |||||||||||||
Exchange reserve | (1,681 | ) | (1,681 | ) | (1,681 | ) | ||||||||||
Warrant reserve | - | 6,653,000 | 6,653,000 | |||||||||||||
Share option reserve | 2,409,689 | 2,409,689 | 2,409,689 | |||||||||||||
Accumulated deficit | (29,170,801 | ) | (29,170,801 | ) | (29,170,801 | ) | ||||||||||
Total stockholders’ equity/(deficit) | (23,010,124 | ) | (1,142,929 | ) | 7,407,416 | |||||||||||
Total capitalization | $ | 742,994 | $ | 742,994 | $ | 7,807,351 |
Notes
1. | At March 31, 2024, $7,276,922 of a $8,000,000 investment from Rhino Ventures Limited had been received by the Company. The amounts received had been classified as ‘Due to an immediate holding company’ ($5.3m) and ‘Loans from immediate holding company’ ($1.9m). The investment was complete on May 28, 2024 and the amounts received were converted into 5,086 Ordinary Shares. The proforma shows the impact on amounts received, share capital and share premium. | |
2. | The loan from a related party was transferred to a convertible loan note in July 2024. It is held by both Working Capital Innovation Fund II, L.P. and Rhino Ventures Limited. The proforma shows the impact to the loan, share capital and share premium on the conversion to Ordinary Shares on this registration statement being declared effective. As per the convertible loan agreement, the convertible loan notes will convert into Ordinary Shares at the lower of 20% discount to the listing price or $60 million valuation on a fully diluted basis. The resultant conversion price was $1.67. | |
3. | The proforma shows the impact to the outstanding convertible loan notes, share capital and share premium on the conversion of convertible loan notes to Ordinary Shares on this registration statement being declared effective. As per the convertible loan agreement, the convertible loan notes will convert into Ordinary Shares at the lower of 20% discount to the listing price or $60 million valuation on a fully diluted basis. The resultant conversion price was $1.67. | |
4. | The proforma shows the impact to the outstanding preferred shares, share capital and share premium on the conversion of preferred shares to Ordinary Shares on this registration statement being declared effective. Preferred shares are converted into Ordinary Shares on a one to one basis. | |
5. | The adjusted proforma shows the net proceeds from this Offering at a $5 listing price and the impact to cash, share capital and share premium. |
If you invest in our Ordinary Shares, your interest will be diluted for each Ordinary Share you purchase to the extent of the difference between the initial public offering price per Ordinary Share and our net tangible book value per Ordinary Share after this Offering. Dilution results from the fact that the initial public offering price per Ordinary Share is substantially in excess of the net tangible book value per Ordinary Share attributable to the existing shareholders for our presently outstanding Ordinary Shares.
The authorized share capital of the Company is 500,000,000 shares of US$0.00005 par value. The pro forma net tangible book value of Diginex Limited before the Offering as of March 31, 2024 was approximately negative $1.1 million, or negative $0.06 per Ordinary Share. Net tangible book value represents the amount of our total combined tangible assets, less the amount of our total consolidated liabilities. Dilution is determined by subtracting the as adjusted net tangible book value per Ordinary Share from the initial public offering price per Ordinary Share and after deducting the estimated discounts to the underwriters and the estimated offering expenses payable by us.
After giving further effect to the sale of Ordinary Shares in this Offering at an assumed initial public offering price of $5 per Ordinary Share, which is the midpoint of the estimated initial public offering price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts, advisory fee and estimated offering expenses payable by us, our as adjusted net tangible book value as of March 31, 2024 is approximately $7.6 million, or approximately $0.34 per Ordinary Share. This represents an immediate increase in as adjusted net tangible book value per Ordinary Share of $0.40 to our existing shareholders and an immediate dilution in as adjusted net tangible book value per Ordinary Share of approximately $4.66 to new investors purchasing Ordinary Shares in this offering. The following table illustrates this dilution on a per Ordinary Share basis:
No
Exercise of Over-allotment Option | Full
Exercise of Over-allotment Option | |||||||
Initial public offering price per ordinary share | $ | 5.00 | $ | 5.00 | ||||
Net tangible book value per Ordinary Share as of March 31, 2024 | $ | (0.06 | ) | $ | (0.06 | ) | ||
Increase in pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per Ordinary Share attributable to existing shareholders after this Offering | $ | 0.40 | $ | 0.46 | ||||
Pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per Ordinary Share after this Offering | $ | 0.34 | $ | 0.40 | ||||
Dilution per Ordinary Share to new investors in this Offering | $ | 4.66 | $ | 4.60 |
If the underwriters exercise their over-allotment option in full, the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per Ordinary Share after the Offering would be $0.40, the increase in net tangible book value per Ordinary Share to existing shareholders would be $0.46, and the immediate dilution in net tangible book value per Ordinary Share to new investors in this Offering would be $4.60.
The table and discussion above are based on 23,192,950 Ordinary Shares outstanding after this Offering and 23,530,450 after a full exercise of the over-allotment option.
To the extent that we issue additional Ordinary Shares in the future, there will be further dilution to new investors participating in this Offering.
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We estimate that we will receive net proceeds from this Offering, after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts, advisory fee, non-accountable expense allowance and the estimated offering expenses payable by us and based upon an assumed initial public offering price of $5 per Ordinary Share, which is the midpoint of the estimated initial public offering price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, of approximately $8.6 million. If the underwriters exercise their over-allotment option in full, we estimate that the net proceeds to us from this Offering will be approximately $10.1 million. after deducting the underwriting discounts, advisory fee, non-accountable expense allowance and estimated offering expenses payable by us.
Use of Proceeds | Percentage | |||||||
General working capital | $ | 8.6 million | 100 | % |
In the event that the underwriters’ over-allotment option is exercised in full, we intend to use such proceeds (approximately $1.6 million) for the same purposes in the same proportions specified above.
The foregoing represents our current intentions based upon our present plans and business conditions to use and allocate the net proceeds of this Offering. Our management, however, will have significant flexibility and discretion to apply the net proceeds of this Offering. To the extent that the net proceeds we receive from this Offering are not immediately used for the above purposes, we intend to invest our net proceeds in short-term, interest-bearing bank deposits or debt instruments.
We intend to keep all future earnings to finance the expansion of our business, and we do not anticipate that any cash dividends will be paid in the foreseeable future. As a holding company, our ability to pay and declare dividends will depend on a number of factors, including our receipt of funds from our subsidiaries. Cash dividends, if any, on our Ordinary Shares will be paid in U.S. dollars.
Our board of directors has complete discretion in deciding whether to distribute dividends, subject to certain restrictions under Cayman Islands law, namely that our company may only pay dividends out of profits or share premium, and provided always that in no circumstances may a dividend be paid if this would result in our company being unable to pay its debts as they fall due in the ordinary course of business. In addition, our shareholders may by ordinary resolution declare a dividend, but no dividend may exceed the amount recommended by our board of directors. Even if our board of directors decides to pay dividends, the timing, amount and form of future dividends, if any, will depend on, among other things, our future results of operations and cash flow, our capital requirements and surplus, the amount of distributions, if any, received by us from our subsidiaries, our financial condition, contractual restrictions and other factors deemed relevant by our board of directors..
Under the current practice of the Inland Revenue Department of Hong Kong, no tax is payable in Hong Kong in respect of dividends paid by us.
Any dividends to be paid by us are not subject to taxation in the Cayman Islands under current laws and regulations. See “Taxation — Cayman Islands Taxation.”
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEARS ENDED MARCH 31, 2024 AND 2023
You should read the following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations of Diginex Limited in conjunction with its combined financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus. The discussion in this prospectus contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, such as statements of our plans, objectives, expectations and intentions. The cautionary statements made in this prospectus should be read as applying to all related forward-looking statements wherever they appear in this prospectus. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include those discussed below and elsewhere in this prospectus, particularly those set forth in the section entitled “Risk Factors.”
A. Operating Results
Results of Operations
For the year ended March 31, | ||||||||
in USD millions | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||
Revenue | 1.3 | 1.6 | ||||||
General and administrative expenses | (9.4 | ) | (8.9 | ) | ||||
Operating loss | (8.1 | ) | (7.3 | ) | ||||
Other income, gains or (losses) | 3.8 | (1.8 | ) | |||||
Finance costs, net | (0.6 | ) | (0.2) | |||||
Loss before tax | (4.9 | ) | (9.3 | ) | ||||
Income tax (expense) benefit | - | - | ||||||
Loss for the year | (4.9 | ) | (9.3 | ) |
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Revenue
For the year ended March 31, | ||||||||
in USD millions | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||
License Products | 0.4 | 0.4 | ||||||
Advisory | 0.2 | 0.2 | ||||||
Customization | 0.7 | 1.0 | ||||||
1.3 | 1.6 |
Revenue for the year ended March 31, 2024 decreased to $1.3 million from $1.6 million for the year ended March 31, 2023.
The decrease in revenues year on year can primarily be attributed to a reduction in revenues from Customization projects. Customization revenue relates to developing customized features for diginexESG or diginexLUMEN for clients and the year on year reduction in the revenue was, primarily, due to a project commissioned by a client in the year end March 31, 2023 not being repeated in the year end March 31, 2024
Revenues from License Products: diginexESG and diginexLUMEN remained flat year on year at $0.4 million, the revenues associated with both individual products also remained broadly flat year on year. Diginex Limited increased the pricing for both products during the year ended March 31, 2024 but this increase is yet to have an impact on revenues as existing clients were grandfathered on the previous pricing structure.
Advisory revenue is generated by providing services such as developing ESG strategies, conducting ESG materiality assessments and conducting training sessions on a range of ESG topics. Advisory revenue remained flat $0.2 million, the same revenue for the for year ended March 31, 2023.
General and Administrative Expenses from Continuing Operations
For the year ended March 31, | ||||||||
in USD millions | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||
Employee benefits | 5.0 | 5.0 | ||||||
IT development and maintenance support | 2.1 | 2.7 | ||||||
Audit fee | 0.6 | - | ||||||
Professional fees | 0.5 | 0.3 | ||||||
Travel and entertainment | 0.5 | - | ||||||
Amortization and depreciation | 0.1 | - | ||||||
Advertising and marketing | - | 0.5 | ||||||
Other | 0.5 | 0.4 | ||||||
9.3 | 8.9 |
General and administrative expenses increased by $0.4 million to $9.3 million for the year ended March 31, 2024. This increase was due, in part, to increased audit fees and professional fees both related to the planned IPO and travel and entertainment which was offset by reduced spending on IT development and advertising and marketing.
Employee Benefits
Employee related expenses were $5.0 million for both the years ended March 31, 2024 and March 31, 2023.
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Salaries and employee benefits decreased by $0.7 million to $3.7 million for the year ended March 31, 2024 when compared to the year ended March 31, 2023. At March 31, 2024 the employee headcount for the Group was 22 which compared to 26 at March 31, 2023. The average headcount for the year ended March 31, 2024 was also 22 compared to 28 for the year ended March 31, 2023. During the year ended March 31, 2024 DSL reduced its headcount as part of a cost saving initiative.
The Group also hired contractors during both periods. The Group hired 7 contractors at March 31, 2024 and 10 at March 31, 2024. Costs associated contractors are included within the salaries and benefits numbers.
The Group has an Employee Shares Option Plan (“ESOP”) that allows for the allocation of 15% of the share capital of the Company on a fully diluted basis to employees/contractors. The ESOP is fair valued at each reporting period using an equity allocation model and at March 31, 2024 resulted in an expense of $1.3 million compared to $0.6 million for the year ended March 31, 2023.
IT Development and maintenance support
IT development and maintenance support costs decreased to $2.1 million for the year ended March 31, 2024 compared to $2.7 for the year ended March 31, 2023. This expense consists primarily of costs associated with the engagement of third party IT engineers to drive the performance of the diginexESG and diginexLUMEN platforms. At March 31, 2024 the Company engaged 39 engineers compared to 47 as at March 31, 2023..
Included in IT development and maintenance support are research and development expenses of $1.3 million for the year ended 31 March 2024 compared to $2.1 million for the year ended March 31, 2023.
Audit fee
Audit fees increased by $0.6 million to $0.6 million for the year ended March 31, 2024. For the year ended March 31,2024, the significant increase in audit fees is due to the fees for the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“PCAOB”) audits of the DSL’s consolidated financial statements for each of the years ended 31 March 2022, 2023 and 2024 and the Group’s combined financial statements for the years ended 31 March 2023 and 2024. These audit engagements are in relation to the planned IPO.
Professional fees
The Group incurred professional fees of $0.5 million during the year ended March 31, 2024 compared to $0.3 million for the year ended March 31, 2023. The increase is primarily related to professional services performed in preparation of the planned IPO.
Travel and entertainment
During the year ended March 31, 2024, the Group incurred expenses of $0.5 million compared to a minimal amount for the year ended March 31, 2023. The increase was driven by travel to meet investors and seek business opportunities.
Advertising and marketing
The Group reduced its advertising and marketing related costs by $0.5 million for the year ended March 31, 2024 from the $0.5 million expense incurred in the year ended March 31, 2023. This reduction was primarily associated with a change in strategy for brand building and client outreach.
Other
Other expenses of $0.5 million for the year end March 31, 2024 increased by $0.1 million when compared to the year ended March 31, 2023. Other expenses include costs such as recruitment fees insurance and general office expenses.
Other losses and expenses, net
For the year ended March 31, | ||||||||
in USD millions | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||
Net fair value gains/(losses) of financial liabilities at fair value through profit and loss | 3.8 | (1.9 | ) | |||||
Other income | 0.0 | 0.1 | ||||||
Total other gains/(losses) and expenses, net | 3.8 | (1.8 | ) |
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The Group recognized total other gains of $3.8 million for the year ended March 31, 2024 which compared to total other losses of $1.9 million for the year ended March 31, 2023. The gains and losses incurred in both the years were due to the fair value measurement of preferred shares and convertible loan notes.
Net Fair Value gains/(losses) of Financial Liabilities at Fair Value Through Profit and Loss
In July 2021, the Group raised $6.0 million capital via the issuance of redeemable preferred shares. At March 31, 2023, the preferred shares were fair valued using an equity allocation model at $13.5 million. This resulted in a loss of $1.8 million being recognized in the combined statement of profit or loss. At March 31, 2024, the preferred shares were, again, fair valued for reporting purposes using the same model. The resulting valuation was $9.4 million, which concluded in a $4.1 million gain being recognized in the combined statement of profit or loss.
During the year ended March 31, 2023, the Group raised $3.25 million via the issuance of an 8% convertible loan note and a further $0.1 million during the year ended March 2024. At March 31, 2023, the convertible loan note was fair valued using a binomial option pricing model at $3.3 million resulting in a minimal loss being recognized in the combined statement of profit or loss. At March 31, 2024, the convertible loan notes were, again, fair valued for reporting purposes using the same model. The resulting valuation was $3.7 million, which concluded in a $0.4 million loss being recognized in the combined statement of profit or loss.
Finance Costs
The Group incurred finance costs for the year ended March 31, 2024 of $0.6 million compared to $0.2 million financing costs for the year ended March 31, 2023.
During the year ended March 31, 2024, $0.3 million of the finance cost related to the 8% convertible loan notes which compared to $0.1 million during the year ended March 31, 2023. The loan from the immediate holding company which bears a 8% coupon resulted in a finance cost of $0.2 million for the year ended March 31, 2024 and $0.1 million for the year ended March 31, 2023. There was also a finance charge on a loan from a related party of $0.1 million for the year ended March 31, 2024, with a lessor amount charged for the year ended March 31, 2023. The related party loan charged interest at 8%.
Income Tax
The operating activities of the Group in the years ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 did not generate a taxable charge due to operating losses incurred. Diginex USA generated a taxable profit in 2022 with the resulting tax charge being recognized as an under provision in the year ended March 31, 2024.
Although the Group had operations in United Kingdom and USA during the reporting periods, the majority of its operations have been in Hong Kong. The Group is subject to Hong Kong profits tax at 16.5%.
Inflation
Since commencing operations, the Group has not been materially impacted by changes in inflation.
Impact of Foreign Currency Fluctuations on Results
The Group’s main operating currencies have historically been the US Dollar and Hong Kong Dollar. As the Hong Kong Dollar is pegged to the US Dollar, the Group has not been overly exposed to foreign currency fluctuations in prior years. As the business grows, the Group will be exposed to more foreign currencies and their fluctuations, such as the British Pound and Euro.
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Significant Accounting Policies, Judgments and Estimates
Significant accounting policies
The combined financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis except for certain financial instruments that are measured at fair values at the end of each reporting period, as explained in the accounting policies set out below.
Historical cost is generally based on the fair value of the consideration given in exchange for goods and services.
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, regardless of whether that price is directly observable or estimated using another valuation technique. In estimating the fair value of an asset or a liability, the Group takes into account the characteristics of the asset or liability if market participants would take those characteristics into account when pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. Fair value for measurement and/or disclosure purposes in these combined financial statements is determined on such a basis, except for share-based payment transactions that are within the scope of IFRS 2 Share-based Payment.
For financial instruments which are transacted at fair value and a valuation technique that unobservable inputs are to be used to measure fair value in subsequent periods, the valuation technique is calibrated so that at initial recognition the results of the valuation technique equals the transaction price, where the highest level of inputs available are used in the valuation.
In addition, for financial reporting purposes, fair value measurements are categorized into Level 1, 2 or 3 based on the degree to which the inputs to the fair value measurements are observable and the significance of the inputs to the fair value measurement in its entirety, which are described as follows:
● | Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity can access at the measurement date; |
● | Level 2 inputs are inputs, other than quoted prices included within Level 1, that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly; and |
● | Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. |
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Basis of consolidation
The combined financial statements incorporate the consolidated financial statements of DSL Group and the financial statements of the Company. The consolidated financial statements of DSL Group have been combined with those of the Company from 26 January 2024.
Control is achieved when a company:
● | has power over the investee; |
● | is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee; and |
● | has the ability to use its power to affect its returns. |
The Group reassesses whether or not it controls an investee if facts and circumstances indicate that there are changes to one or more of the three elements of control listed above.
Consolidation of a subsidiary begins when the Group obtains control over the subsidiary and ceases when the Group loses control of the subsidiary. Specifically, income and expenses of a subsidiary acquired or disposed of during the year are included in the combined statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income from the date the Group gains control until the date when the Group ceases to control the subsidiary.
Profit or loss and each item of other comprehensive income are attributed to the owners of Company and to the non-controlling interests. Total comprehensive income or loss of subsidiaries is attributed to the owners of the Company and to the non-controlling interests even if this results in the non-controlling interests having a deficit balance.
When necessary, adjustments are made to the financial statements of subsidiaries to bring their accounting policies in line with the Group’s accounting policies.
All intragroup assets and liabilities, equity, income, expenses and cash flows relating to transactions between members of the Group are eliminated in full on consolidation.
Deemed reverse acquisition
The acquisition method of accounting is used to account for all deemed reverse acquisitions where in substance an operating company is acquired by a shell company where the shareholders of the operating company obtain control of the shell company.
With respect to the Transaction, DSL is the operating company while the Company is considered as shell company.
Identifying the accounting acquirer/accounting acquiree:
The Company is considered as the legal acquirer and the accounting acquiree. Control is obtained by DSL shareholders as the Company, on 15 July 2024, issued 6,869,960 ordinary shares and 1,291,910 preferred shares which allowed the former shareholder of DSL to hold the majority of issued share capital and voting rights.
Determining the deemed consideration transferred:
The deemed consideration transferred for the deemed reverse acquisition of the Company is the fair value of the shares which DSL would have had to issue in establishing the same post transaction control structure but as if it were the legal acquirer. Given there is no change to the control structure after the Transaction, the deemed consideration is determined as $Nil.
Fair value of assets and liabilities acquired in a deemed reverse acquisition:
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a deemed reversed acquisition are, with limited exceptions, measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date. For the Transaction, since it is a common control transaction, the net assets acquired from the Company are solely current account with DSL, and its carrying value is adopted.
Presentation of the combined financial statements post deemed reverse acquisition:
Under the Transaction, the Company being the accounting acquiree (legal acquirer), becomes the ultimate parent holding company of the Group, however, the combined financial statement represents a continuation of DSL, the accounting acquirer (legal acquiree) with the exception of the legal capital structure.
The combined financial statements incorporate the financial statements items of the combining entities, i.e. the Company and DSL Group, in which the combination occurs as if they had been combined from the date when the combining entities first came under the control of the substantial shareholders.
The net assets of the combining entities are consolidated using the existing book values from the substantial shareholder’s perspective. No amount is recognized in respect of goodwill or bargain purchase gain at the time of combination.
The combined statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive loss includes the results of each of the combining entities from the earliest date presented or since the date when the combining businesses first came under the control of the substantial shareholder, where this is a shorter period, i.e. the date of incorporation of the Company on 26 January 2024.
Given the Company had not existed during the year ended 31 March 2022 and the combined financial statement represents a continuation of DSL, the consolidated financial statements of DSL Group for the year ended 31 March 2022 are presented as the comparative amounts in these combined financial statements.
Shareholders’ equity of DSL prior to the Transaction is retrospectively adjusted as a recapitalization for the equivalent number of shares received and on a pro rata basis, together with the impact of the Share Subdivision for prior reporting periods. Retained earnings and relevant reserves of the DSL are carried forward after the Transaction. Any difference to shareholders equity of DSL arising from the recapitalization of share capital and equity instruments issued is recorded in equity under the capital reserve.
Earnings per share
Earnings per share for periods prior to the Recapitalization are retrospectively adjusted to reflect the number of equivalent shares received by the accounting acquirer, DSL, based on the number of shares outstanding on the reporting dates multiplied by the exchange ratio. The exchange ratio being the combination of the share exchange swap of one DSL ordinary share for 410 Diginex Limited ordinary shares multiplied by a factor of two to reflect the Share Subdivision and one DSL preferred share for 410 Diginex Limited preferred shares multiplied by a factor of two to reflect the Share Subdivision.
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Revenue recognition
The Group recognizes revenue when (or as) a performance obligation is satisfied, i.e. when “control” of the services underlying the particular performance obligation is transferred to the customer. A performance obligation represents a service (or a bundle of goods or services) that is distinct or a series of distinct services that are substantially the same.
Except for granting of a license that is distinct from other promised services, control is transferred over time and revenue is recognized over time by reference to the progress towards complete satisfaction of the relevant performance obligation if one of the following criteria is met:
● | the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided by the Group’s performance as the Group performs; |
● | the Group’s performance creates or enhances an asset that the customer controls as the Group performs; or |
● | the Group’s performance does not create an asset with an alternative use to the Group and the Group has an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date. |
Otherwise, revenue is recognized at a point in time when the customer obtains control of the distinct service.
For granting of a license that is distinct from other promised services, the nature of the Group’s promise in granting a license is a promise to provide a right to access the Group’s intellectual property if all of the following criteria are met:
● | the contract requires, or the customer reasonably expects, that the Group will undertake activities that significantly affect the intellectual property to which the customer has rights; |
● | the rights granted by the license directly expose the customer to any positive or negative effects of the Group’s activities; and |
● | those activities do not result in the transfer of a good or a service to the customer as those activities occur. |
If the criteria above are met, the Group accounts for the promise to grant a license as a performance obligation satisfied over time. Otherwise, the Group considers the grant of license as providing the customers the right to use the Group’s intellectual property and the performance obligation is satisfied at a point in time at which the license is granted.
A contract asset represents the Group’s right to consideration in exchange for goods or services that the Group has transferred to a customer that is not yet unconditional. It is assessed for impairment in accordance with IFRS 9. In contrast, a receivable represents the Group’s unconditional right to consideration, i.e. only the passage of time is required before payment of that consideration is due.
A contract liability represents the Group’s obligation to transfer services to a customer for which the Group has received consideration (or an amount of consideration is due) from the customer.
A contract asset and a contract liability relating to the same contract are accounted for and presented on a net basis.
Over time revenue recognition:- Input method
The progress towards complete satisfaction of a performance obligation is measured based on input method, which is to recognize revenue on the basis of the Group’s efforts or inputs to the satisfaction of a performance obligation relative to the total expected inputs to the satisfaction of that performance obligation, that best depict the Group’s performance in transferring control of services.
Government grants
Government grants are not recognized until there is reasonable assurance that the Group will comply with the conditions attaching to them and that the grants will be received.
Government grants related to income that are receivable as compensation for expenses or losses already incurred or for the purpose of giving immediate financial support to the Group with no future related costs are recognized in profit or loss in the period in which they become receivable. Government grants relating to compensation of expenses are deducted from the related expenses, other government grants are presented under “other income, gains or (losses)”.
Research and development expenditure
Expenditure on research activities is recognized as an expense in the period in which it is incurred.
An internally-generated intangible asset arising from development activities (or from the development phase of an internal project) is recognized if, and only if, all of the following have been demonstrated:
● | the technical feasibility of completing the intangible asset so that it will be available for use or sale; |
● | the intention to complete the intangible asset and use or sell it; |
● | the ability to use or sell the intangible asset; |
● | how the intangible asset will generate probable future economic benefits; |
● | the availability of adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the development and to use or sell the intangible asset; and |
● | the ability to measure reliably the expenditure attributable to the intangible asset during its development. |
The amount initially recognized for internally-generated intangible asset is the sum of the expenditure incurred from the date when the intangible asset first meets the recognition criteria listed above. Where no internally-generated intangible asset can be recognized, development expenditure is recognized in profit or loss in the period in which it is incurred.
During each of the years ended 31 March 2024 and 2023, no research and development expenditure is recognized as an internally generated intangible asset.
Foreign currencies
In preparing the financial statements of each individual group entity, transactions in currencies other than the functional currency of that entity (foreign currencies) are recognized at the rates of exchange prevailing on the dates of the transactions. At the end of the reporting period, monetary items denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing at that date. Non-monetary items carried at fair value that are denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing on the date when the fair value was determined. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are not retranslated.
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Exchange differences arising on the settlement of monetary items, and on the retranslation of monetary items, are recognized in profit or loss in the period in which they arise.
For the purposes of presenting the combined financial statements, the assets and liabilities of the Group’s operations are translated into the presentation currency of the Group (i.e. USD) using exchange rates prevailing at the end of each reporting period. Income and expenses items are translated at the average exchange rates for the period, unless exchange rates fluctuate significantly during that period, in which case the exchange rates at the date of transactions are used. Exchange differences arising, if any, are recognized in other comprehensive income and accumulated in equity under the heading of exchange reserve (attributed to non-controlling interests as appropriate).
Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs are recognized in the statement of profit or loss in the period in which they are incurred.
Employee benefits
Retirement benefit costs
Payments made by the Group to defined contribution retirement benefit plans are recognized as an expense when employees have rendered service entitling them to the contributions.
Short-term employee benefits
Short-term employee benefits are recognized at the undiscounted amount of the benefits expected to be paid as and when employees rendered the services. All short-term employee benefits are recognized as an expense unless another IFRSs requires or permits the inclusion of the benefit in the cost of an asset.
A liability is recognized for benefits accruing to employees (such as salaries and annual leave) after deducting any amount already paid.
Share-based payments
Equity-settled share-based payments to employees and others providing similar services are measured at the fair value of the equity instruments at the grant date.
The fair value of the equity-settled share-based payments determined at the grant date without taking into consideration all non-market vesting conditions is expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, based on the Group’s estimate of equity instruments that will eventually vest, with a corresponding increase in equity (share option reserve). At the end of each reporting period, the Group revises its estimate of the number of equity instruments expected to vest based on assessment of all relevant non-market vesting conditions. The impact of the revision of the original estimates, if any, is recognized in the statement of profit or loss such that the cumulative expense reflects the revised estimate, with a corresponding adjustment to the share option reserve. For share options that vest immediately at the date of grant, the fair value of the share options granted is expensed immediately to the statement of profit or loss.
When share options are exercised, the amount previously recognized in share option reserve will be transferred to share capital. When the share options are forfeited after the vesting date or are still not exercised at the expiry date, the amount previously recognized in share option reserve will be transferred to accumulated losses.
Taxation
Income tax expense (benefit) represents the sum of the current tax and deferred tax.
The tax currently payable is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from profit recognized in the combined statement of profit or loss because of items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and items that are never taxable or deductible. The Group’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period.
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Deferred tax is recognized on differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the combined financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit. Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognized for all taxable temporary differences and deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against deductible temporary differences, unused tax losses or unused tax credits. Such assets and liabilities are not recognized if the temporary difference arises from goodwill or from the initial recognition (other than in a business combination) of other assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the taxable profit nor the accounting profit.
Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries, except where the Group is able to control the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.
The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at the end of each reporting period and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the deferred liability is settled or the deferred asset is realized, based on tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period.
The measurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities reflects the tax consequences that would follow from the manner in which the Group expects, at the end of the reporting period, to recover or settle the carrying amount of its assets and liabilities.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority and the Group intends to settle its current tax assets and liabilities on a net basis.
Current and deferred tax are recognized in profit or loss.
Plant and equipment
Plant and equipment are tangible assets that are held for use in the production or supply of goods or services, or for administrative purposes. Plant and equipment are stated in the combined statement of financial position at cost less subsequent accumulated depreciation and subsequent accumulated impairment losses, if any.
Depreciation is recognized so as to write off the cost of assets less their residual values over their estimated useful lives, using the straight-line method. The estimated useful lives, residual values and depreciation method are reviewed at the end of each reporting period, with the effect of any changes in estimate accounted for on a prospective basis. Estimated useful lives of plant and equipment are as follows:
Office equipment | 5 years |
An item of plant and equipment is derecognized upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on de-recognition of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in the combined statement of profit or loss in the year the asset is derecognized.
Lease
At inception of a contract, the Group assesses whether the contract is, or contains, a lease. A contract is, or contains, a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration.
The Group as lessee
For a contract that contains a lease component and one or more additional lease or non-lease components, the Group allocates the consideration in the contract to each lease component on the basis of the relative stand-alone price of the lease component and the aggregate stand-alone price of the non-lease components. The Group applies practical expedient not to separate non-lease components from lease component, and instead account for the lease component and any associated non-lease components as a single lease component.
In applying IFRS 16, the Group elected a simplified approach for leases with a lease term of 12 months or less from the commencement date and do not contain a purchase option. Lease payments on short-term leases are recognized as expense on a straight-line basis.
In assessing whether a lessee is reasonably certain to exercise an option to extend a lease, or not to exercise an option to terminate a lease, the Group considers all relevant facts and circumstances that create an economic incentive for the lessee to exercise the option to extend the lease, or not to exercise the option to terminate the lease. The Group revises the lease term if there is a change in the non-cancellable period of a lease.
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Right-of use assets
The right-of-use asset is initially recognized at cost comprising of:
● | amount of the initial measurement of the lease liability; | |
● | any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, less any lease incentives received; | |
● | any initial direct costs incurred by the Group; and | |
● | an estimate of costs to be incurred by the Group in dismantling and removing the underlying asset, restoring the site on which it is located or restoring the underlying asset to the condition required by the terms and conditions of the lease. |
Right-of-use assets are measured at cost, less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, and adjusted for any remeasurement of lease liabilities.
Right-of-use assets in which the Group is reasonably certain to obtain ownership of the underlying leased assets at the end of the lease term are depreciated from commencement date to the end of the useful life. Otherwise, right-of-use assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of its estimated useful life and the lease term.
The Group presents right-of-use assets as a separate line item on the combined statement of financial position.
Lease liabilities
At the commencement date of a lease, the Group recognizes and measures the lease liability at the present value of lease payments that are unpaid at that date. In calculating the present value of lease payments, the Group uses the incremental borrowing rate at the lease commencement date if the interest rate implicit in the lease is not readily determinable.
The lease payments include:
● | fixed payments (including in-substance fixed payments) less any lease incentives receivable; | |
● | variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate, initially measured using the index or rate as at the commencement date; | |
● | amounts expected to be payable by the Group under residual value guarantees; | |
● | the exercise price of a purchase option if the Group is reasonably certain to exercise the option; and | |
● | payments of penalties for terminating a lease, if the lease term reflects the Group exercising an option to terminate the lease. |
After the commencement date, lease liabilities are adjusted by interest accretion and lease payments. The Group remeasures lease liabilities (and makes a corresponding adjustment to the related right-of-use assets) whenever:
● | the lease term has changed or there is a change in the assessment of exercise of a purchase option, in which case the related lease liability is remeasured by discounting the revised lease payments using a revised discount rate at the date of reassessment. | |
● | the lease payments change due to changes in market rental rates following a market rent review, in which cases the related lease liability is remeasured by discounting the revised lease payments using the initial discount rate. |
The Group presents lease liabilities as a separate line item on the combined statement of financial position.
Impairment of non-financial assets
At each reporting date, the Group reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets with finite useful lives to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the relevant asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).
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The recoverable amounts of relevant assets are estimated individually. When it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount individually, the Group estimates the recoverable amount of the cash generating unit to which the asset belongs.
In testing a cash-generating unit for impairment, corporate assets are allocated to the relevant cash-generating unit when a reasonable and consistent basis of allocation can be established, or otherwise they are allocated to the smallest group of cash generating units for which a reasonable and consistent allocation basis can be established. The recoverable amount is determined for the cash-generating unit or group of cash-generating units to which the corporate asset belongs, and is compared with the carrying amount of the relevant cash-generating unit or group of cash-generating units.
Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset (or a cash-generating unit) for which the estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted.
If the recoverable amount of an asset (or a cash-generating unit) is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset (or a cash-generating unit) is reduced to its recoverable amount. For corporate assets or portion of corporate assets which cannot be allocated on a reasonable and consistent basis to a cash-generating unit, the Group compares the carrying amount of a group of cash-generating units, including the carrying amounts of the corporate assets or portion of corporate assets allocated to that group of cash-generating units, with the recoverable amount of the group of cash-generating units. In allocating the impairment loss, the impairment loss is allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill (if applicable) and then to the other assets on a pro-rata basis based on the carrying amount of each asset in the unit or the group of cash-generating units. The carrying amount of an asset is not reduced below the highest of its fair value less costs of disposal (if measurable), its value in use (if determinable) and zero. The amount of the impairment loss that would otherwise have been allocated to the asset is allocated pro rata to the other assets of the unit or the group of cash-generating units. An impairment loss is recognized immediately in profit or loss.
Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit or a group of cash-generating units) is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognized for the asset (or a cash-generating unit or a group of cash-generating units) in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognized immediately in profit or loss
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents mainly comprised of cash at different banks. The Company considers all short-term investments with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased as cash and cash equivalents. As of 31 March 2024 and 2023, the Group did not have such short term investments.
Financial instruments
Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognized when a group entity becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. All regular way purchases or sales of financial assets are recognized and derecognized on a settlement date basis. Regular way purchases or sales are purchases or sales of financial assets that require delivery of assets within the time frame established by regulation or convention in the market place.
Financial assets and financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value except for trade receivables arising from contracts with customers which are initially measured in accordance with IFRS 15. Transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or issue of financial assets and financial liabilities (other than financial assets or financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss (“FVTPL”)) are added to or deducted from the fair value of the financial assets or financial liabilities, as appropriate, on initial recognition. Transaction costs directly attributable to the acquisition of financial assets or financial liabilities at FVTPL are recognized immediately in profit or loss.
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The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial asset or financial liability and of allocating interest income and interest expense over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts and payments (including all fees and points paid or received that form an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and other premiums or discounts) through the expected life of the financial asset or financial liability, or, where appropriate, a shorter period, to the net carrying amount on initial recognition.
Financial assets
Classification and subsequent measurement of financial assets
Financial assets that meet the following conditions are subsequently measured at amortized cost:
● | the financial asset is held within a business model whose objective is to collect contractual cash flows; and | |
● | the contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding. |
All other financial assets are subsequently measured at FVTPL.
Amortized cost and interest income
Interest income is recognized using the effective interest method for financial assets measured subsequently at amortized cost. Interest income is calculated by applying the effective interest rate to the gross carrying amount of a financial asset, except for financial assets that have subsequently become credit-impaired (see below). For financial assets that have subsequently become credit-impaired, interest income is recognized by applying the effective interest rate to the amortized cost of the financial asset from the next reporting period. If the credit risk on the credit-impaired financial instrument improves so that the financial asset is no longer credit-impaired, interest income is recognized by applying the effective interest rate to the gross carrying amount of the financial asset from the beginning of the reporting period following the determination that the asset is no longer credit-impaired. At the end of the reporting period, trade and other receivables are measured at amortized cost.
Financial assets at FVTPL
Financial assets that do not meet the criteria for being measured at amortized cost or Fair Value Through Other Comprehensive Income (“FVTOCI”) or designated as FVTOCI are measured at FVTPL.
Financial assets at FVTPL are measured at fair value at the end of each reporting period, with any fair value gains or losses recognized in profit or loss. The net gain or loss recognized in profit or loss excludes any dividend or interest earned on the financial asset.
Impairment of financial assets subject to impairment assessment under IFRS 9
The Group performs impairment assessment under expected credit loss (“ECL”) model on financial assets (including trade and other receivables and amounts due from an associate/shareholders/related companies) which are subject to impairment assessment under IFRS 9. The amount of ECL is updated at each reporting date to reflect changes in credit risk since initial recognition.
Lifetime ECL represents the ECL that will result from all possible default events over the expected life of the relevant instrument. In contrast, 12-month ECL (“12m ECL”) represents the portion of lifetime ECL that is expected to result from default events that are possible within 12 months after the reporting date. Assessments are done based on the Group’s historical credit loss experience, adjusted for factors that are specific to the debtors, general economic conditions and an assessment of both the current conditions at the reporting date as well as the forecast of future conditions.
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The Group always recognizes lifetime ECL for trade receivables.
For all other instruments, the Group measures the loss allowance equal to 12-month expected credit loss (“ECL”), unless there has been a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, in which case the Group recognizes lifetime ECL. The assessment of whether lifetime ECL should be recognized is based on significant increases in the likelihood or risk of a default occurring since initial recognition.
Derecognition of financial assets
The Group derecognizes a financial asset only when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire, or when it transfers the financial asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the asset to another entity. If the Group neither transfers nor retains substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership and continues to control the transferred asset, the Group recognizes its retained interest in the asset and an associated liability for amounts it may have to pay. If the Group retains substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of a transferred financial asset, the Group continues to recognize the financial asset and also recognizes a collateralized borrowing for the proceeds received.
On derecognition of a financial asset measured at amortized cost, the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the sum of the consideration received and receivable is recognized in profit or loss.
Financial liabilities and equity
Classification as debt or equity
Debt and equity instruments are classified as either financial liabilities or as equity in accordance with the substance of the contractual arrangements and the definitions of a financial liability and an equity instrument.
Equity instruments
An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of an entity after deducting all of its liabilities. Equity instruments issued by the Company are recognized at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.
Financial liabilities at FVTPL
Financial liabilities are classified as at FVTPL when the financial liability is (i) contingent consideration of an acquirer in a business combination to which IFRS 3 applies, (ii) held for trading or (iii) it is designated as at FVTPL.
A financial liability is held for trading if:
● | it has been acquired principally for the purpose of repurchasing it in the near term; or |
● | on initial recognition it is part of a portfolio of identified financial instruments that the Group manages together and has a recent actual pattern of short-term profit-taking; or |
● | it is a derivative, except for a derivative that is a financial guarantee contract or a designated and effective hedging instrument. |
A financial liability other than a financial liability held for trading or contingent consideration of an acquirer in a business combination may be designated as at FVTPL upon initial recognition if:
● | such designation eliminates or significantly reduces a measurement or recognition inconsistency that would otherwise arise; or |
● | the financial liability forms part of a group of financial assets or financial liabilities or both, which is managed, and its performance is evaluated on a fair value basis, in accordance with the Group’s documented risk management or investment strategy, and information about the grouping is provided internally on that basis; or |
● | it forms part of a contract containing one or more embedded derivatives, and IFRS 9 permits the entire combined contract to be designated as at FVTPL. |
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For financial liabilities that are designated as at FVTPL, the amount of changes in the fair value of the financial liability that is attributable to changes in the credit risk of that liability is recognized in other comprehensive income, unless the recognition of the effects of changes in the liability’s credit risk in other comprehensive income would create or enlarge an accounting mismatch in profit or loss.
Financial liabilities at amortized cost
Financial liabilities including other payables and amounts due to an associate/related parties/directors are subsequently measured at amortized cost, using the effective interest method.
Preferred shares/ convertible loan notes/redeemable ordinary shares
At the date of issue, preferred shares, convertible loan notes and redeemable ordinary shares are designated as at FVTPL with both the debt component and derivative components recognized at fair value. In subsequent period, changes in fair value are recognized in profit or loss as fair value gain or loss except for changes in the fair value that is attributable to changes in the credit risk (excluding changes in fair value of the derivatives component) is recognized in other comprehensive income, unless the recognition of the effects of changes in the credit risk in other comprehensive income would create or enlarge an accounting mismatch in profit or loss. Changes in fair value attributable to the credit risk that are recognized in other comprehensive income are not subsequently reclassified to profit or loss, they are transferred to retained profits upon derecognition.
Transaction costs relating to the issue of all these instruments are charged to profit or loss immediately.
Derecognition of financial liabilities
The Group derecognizes financial liabilities when, and only when, the Group’s obligations are discharged, cancelled or have expired. The difference between the carrying amount of the financial liability derecognized and the consideration paid and payable is recognized in profit or loss.
Related parties
A related party is a person or entity that is related to the Group.
(a) | A person or a close member of that person’s family is related to the Group if that person: |
i. | has control or joint control over the Group; | |
ii. | has significant influence over the Group; or | |
iii. | is a member of key management personnel of the Group or the Group’s parent. |
(b) | An entity is related to the Group if any of the following conditions apply: |
i. | The entity and the Group are members of the same group (which means that each parent, subsidiary and fellow subsidiary is related to the others). | |
ii. | One entity is an associate or joint venture of the other entity (or an associate or joint venture of a member of a group of which the other entity is a member). | |
iii. | Both entities are joint ventures of the same third party. | |
iv. | One entity is a joint venture of a third entity and the other entity is an associate of the third entity. | |
v. | The entity is a post-employment benefit plan for the benefit of the employees of the Group or an entity related to the Group. | |
vi. | The entity is controlled or jointly controlled by a person identified in (a). | |
vii. | A person identified in (a)(i) has significant influence over the entity or is a member of key management personnel of the entity (or of a parent of the entity). | |
viii. | The entity, or any member of a group of which it is a part, provides key management personnel services to the Group or to the parent of the Group. |
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Current versus non-current classification
The Group presents assets and liabilities in the combined statement of financial position based on current/non-current classification. An asset is current when:
● | It is expected to be realized or intended to be sold or consumed in normal operating cycle; | |
● | It is held primarily for the purpose of trading; | |
● | It is expected to be realized within twelve months after the reporting period; or | |
● | It is cash or cash equivalent unless restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period. |
All other assets are classified as non-current.
A liability is current when:
● | It is expected to be settled in normal operating cycle; | |
● | It is held primarily for the purpose of trading; | |
● | It is due to be settled within twelve months after the reporting period; or | |
● | There is no unconditional right to defer the settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period. |
All other liabilities are classified as non-current.
Accounting estimates and judgements
In the application of the Group’s accounting policies, which are described in note 3, the management is required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an on-going basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.
Judgements
In the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies, management has made the following judgements which have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in the combined financial statements:
Functional currency
The Company’s revenue contracts, operating expenses and borrowing are primarily in USD, and are expected to remain principally denominated in USD in the future. Management has determined USD as the Company’s functional currency and presented the combined financial statements in USD to meet the requirements of users.
Financial instruments
In the process of classifying a financial instrument, management has made various judgments. Judgment is needed to determine whether a financial instrument, or its component parts, on initial recognition is classified as a financial liability, a financial asset or an equity instrument in accordance with the substance of the contractual arrangement and the definitions of a financial liability, a financial asset and an equity instrument. In making its judgment, management considered the detailed criteria and related guidance for the classification of financial instruments as set out in IFRS 9, in particular, whether the instrument includes a contractual obligation to deliver cash or another financial asset to another entity.
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Segmental reporting
Operating segments are defined as components of an entity for which separate financial information is available and that is regularly reviewed by the Chief Operating Decision Maker (the “CODM”) in deciding how to allocate resources to an individual segment and in assessing performance. The Group’s management is considered the Group’s CODM. The CODM reviews financial information presented on a consolidated basis for purposes of making operating decisions, allocating resources, and evaluating financial performance. While the Group has revenue from multiple services and geographies, the balance sheet and cash flow of the Group is considered by the CODM on a consolidated basis, so discrete financial information is not available for each such component. The overall financial performance of the Group is also considered as a whole.
As such, the Group has determined that it operates as one operating segment and one reportable segment. The Group will continue to assess the operating segments reviewed by the CODM and the associated reportable segments per IAS 8.
Estimation uncertainties
The key assumptions concerning the future, and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date, that may have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year, are discussed below:
Fair value measurement of financial instruments
At the end of each reporting period, certain of the Group’s financial liabilities, including preferred shares and convertible loan notes, are measured at fair value with fair value being determined based on significant unobservable inputs using valuation techniques. Judgement and estimation are required in establishing the relevant valuation techniques and the relevant inputs thereof. Changes in assumptions relating to these factors could result in material adjustments to the fair value of these instruments.
Provision of ECL for trade receivables
Trade receivables with significant balances and credit-impaired are assessed for ECL individually. In addition, for trade receivables which are individually insignificant or when the Group does not have reasonable and supportable information that is available without undue cost or effort to measure ECL on individual basis, collective assessment is performed by grouping debtors based on the Group’s internal credit ratings.
The provision of ECL is sensitive to changes in estimates.
Income taxes
The Group is subject to income taxes in several jurisdictions. Significant estimates are required in determining the provision for income taxes. There are many transactions and calculations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain during the ordinary course of business. Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts that were initially recorded, such differences will impact the current and deferred tax exposure in the period in which such determination is made.
Share-based payment expenses – share options awards
The fair value of the share option awards granted that is determined at the date of grant of the respective share options is expensed over the vesting period, with a corresponding adjustment to the Group’s share option reserve. In assessing the fair value of the share option award, discounted cash flows and the equity allocation model were used to calculate the fair value of the share options. The discounted cash flows and the equity allocation model require the input of subjective assumptions, including discount rate, volatility of the Company’s Ordinary Shares and the expected life of options. Any changes in these assumptions can significantly affect the estimate of the fair value of the share option awards.
Discount rate used for initial measurement of lease liability
The Group, as a lessee, measures the lease liability at the present value of the unpaid lease payments at the commencement date. The lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease, if that rate can be readily determined. If that rate cannot be readily determined, the Group on initial recognition of the lease uses its incremental borrowing rate. Incremental borrowing rate is the rate of interest that the Group would have to pay to borrow over a similar term, and with a similar security, the funds necessary to obtain an asset of a similar value to the right-of-use assets in similar economic environment.
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Recently Released Accounting Standards
See Note 2 to the financial statements included elsewhere in this Form F-1.
B. Liquidity and Capital Resources
The Group’s ability to fund its operations is based on its ability to generate revenue, its ability to attract investors and its ability to borrow funds on reasonable economic terms. During the year ended March 31, 2024, the Group raised capital via the advance of $5.3 million in relation to an $8.0 million capital raise. The $8.0 million raise completed in May 2024 and included the conversion of $1.9 million of debt into equity. The Group also raised capital via the issuance of a convertible loan note bearing an 8% coupon for $0.1 million which converts into equity upon listing. Upon completion of the Restructuring the conversion terms were changed from listing to upon this document being declared effective. The Group repaid $0.6 million of a loan outstanding to Rhino Ventures Limited during the year ended March 31, 2024, The loan with Rhino Ventures Limited also charges an 8% coupon. In the year ended 31 March 2023, the Group raised $3.3 million via the issuance of a convertible loan note bearing an 8% coupon. The Group also borrowed $1 million from a relate company and $2.3 million from Rhino Ventures Limited.
Management is of the opinion that the capital of the Group is not sufficient to meet present requirements without the continued support from the shareholder loan. At March 31, 2024 the Group had net current liabilities and without any actions would be unable to meet liquidity requirements over the twelve months following the submission of this registration statement. In order to reduce the liquidity risk, Rhino Ventures Limited has agreed to fund the business until the earlier of the next twelve months from the date the combined financial statements for the year ended March 31,2024 were issued or this registration statement being declared effective and the consummation of the Offering and the related funding.
Diginex Limited is not aware of any legal or economic restrictions on the ability of its subsidiaries to transfer funds to Diginex Limited in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances. Diginex Limited is also not aware of any material restrictions that impact the transfer of funds between subsidiaries to enable the operating of the business in various jurisdictions.
At March 31, 2024, the Group held cash and cash equivalents of $0.1 million. The majority was held in USD. The Group held all balances in bank accounts and had not hedged any foreign exchange exposures given the dominant use of USD and Hong Kong dollars. However, given the increased use of British Pounds for salaries, the Group is looking to implement a Treasury Policy to manage foreign exchange requirements going forward.
As of March 31, 2024 and 2023, the Group has cash and cash equivalents of $0.1 million and $1.2 million, as detailed below:
As of March 31, 2024 | As of March 31, 2023 | |||||||
in USD Millions | Total | Total | ||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | (5.8 | ) | (6.6 | ) | ||||
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | 0.0 | 0.0 | ||||||
Net cash provided by financing activities | 4.7 | 6.5 | ||||||
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents | (1.1 | ) | (0.1 | ) | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year | 1.2 | 1.3 | ||||||
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year | 0.1 | 1.2 |
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Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Cash outflows from operating activities were $5.8 million in the year ended March 31, 2024, compared to an outflow of $6.6 million for the year ended March 31, 2023. Of the operating expenditure incurred in the year ended March 31, 2024, $3.7 million related to employees and contractors and $2.1 million on third party IT engineers. In the year ended March 31, 2023, $4.4 million of spend related to employees and contractors and $2.7 million on third party IT engineers.
Cash flows from Investing Activities
There was no material cash flow from investing activities during the years ended March 31, 2024 and 2023.
Cash flows from Financing Activities
Total cash inflows from financing activities were $4.7 million in the year ended March 31, 2024, compared to an inflow of $6.5 million for the year ended March 31, 2023.
During the year ended March 31, 2024, the Group collected $5.3 million as an advance payment on the completion of an $8.0 million capital raise from Rhino Ventures Limited. The $8.0 million raise completed in May 2024 and included the converting of $1.9 million of debt into equity. The Group also raised $0.1 million from the issuance of a fixed rate 8% convertible loan note. The convertible loan notes have a maturity date on the second anniversary of the effective date. The notes convert at the lower of a 20% discount to listing share price or $60 million. In the year ended March 31, 2023, the Group raised $3.3 million from the issuance of a fixed rate 8% convertible loan note.
The Group has a fixed rate 8% shareholder loan from Rhino Ventures Limited. During the year ended March 31, 2024, Rhino Ventures Limited advanced $0.6 million and during the same period the Group repaid $1.2 million resulting in a net outflow of $0.6m million. During the year ended March 31, 2023 the Group repaid $0.6 million to Rhino Ventures and Rhino advanced $2.3 million resulting in a net inflow of $1.7 million.
In the year ended March 31, 2023, the Group borrowed $1 million from a related company, Diginex Holdings Limited. The loan carries an interest charge at a fixed rate of 8%. Diginex Holdings Limited, is also owed by Rhino Ventures Limited but is not a subsidiary of Diginex Limited.
Indebtedness
As of March 31, 2024, the Group had a loan balance of $1.9 million outstanding with Rhino Ventures Limited which is repayable by September 30, 2024, $1.1 million loan with a related company which is repayable by December 31, 2024, outstanding convertible loan notes of $3.35 million with repayable terms on the second anniversary of their effective date and redeemable preference shares of $6 million, with a five year maturity. The preferred shares were fair valued at $9.4 million using an equity allocation model at March 31, 2024. Convertible loan notes and preferred shares have an auto conversion feature upon listing. Upon completion of the Restructuring the conversion terms were changed from listing to upon this document being declared effective. Rhino Ventures Limited, as at March 31, 2023 had advanced $5.3 million to the Group in advance of completing an $8.0 million capital raise. The $8.0 million raise completed in May 2024 and included the conversion of $1.9 million of debt into equity. The Group also entering into a long term lease in Monaco with outstanding liabilities due out to 2027 of $0.3 million.
As of March 31, 2023, the Group had a loan balance of $2.3 million outstanding with Rhino Ventures Limited which is repayable by September 30, 2024, $1.0 million loan with a related company which is repayable by December 31, 2024, outstanding convertible loan notes of $3.25 million with repayable terms as noted above and redeemable preference shares of $6 million, with a five year maturity. The preferred shares were fair valued at $13.5 million using an equity allocation model at March 31, 2023. Convertible loan notes and preferred shares have an auto conversion feature upon listing. Upon completion of the Restructuring the conversion terms were changed from listing to upon this document being declared effective.
Other payables outstanding relate primarily to accounts payable and accruals that have accumulated in the ordinary course of business.
When customers subscribe for a licensed product they typically pay for an annual subscription in advance. For advisory and customizations projects, the clients will typically pay during the course of the project with revenue being recognized upon completion. As such the Group accounts for deferred revenues which relates to the balances of invoices raised that have yet to be recognized as revenue. At March 31, 2024 the Group accounted for $0.3 million of deferred revenue and $0.3 million at March 31, 2023.
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At March 31, 2024 the Group had contracted to the below office leases:
Long term lease:
● | Monaco, France: lease with an annual break clause that expires on January 31, 2027. The quarterly rent is 32,091 Euros (c. USD 34,905) |
Short term:
● | Hong Kong: 12 month lease at a monthly rent of HKD 26,680 (c. USD 3,420) |
The table below illustrates the indebtedness as at March 31, 2024 and 2023:
As of March 31, | ||||||||
in USD millions | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||
Shareholder loans | 1.9 | 2.3 | ||||||
Advance of equity subscription | 5.3 | - | ||||||
Amounts due to related company | 1.1 | 1.0 | ||||||
Preference shares | 9.4 | 13.5 | ||||||
Notes payable | 4.1 | 3.3 | ||||||
Deferred revenue | 0.3 | 0.3 | ||||||
Lease Liabilities | 0.3 | - | ||||||
Trade Payables | 0.8 | 0.2 | ||||||
Other payables | 0.8 | 0.5 | ||||||
Total debt | 24.0 | 21.1 |
C. Research and Developments, Patents and Licenses, Etc.
We own and control a variety of intellectual property, including but not limited to trademarks, know-how and proprietary software and applications that, in the aggregate, are material to our business.
D. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
The Group has no off-balance sheet arrangements.
F. Contractual Obligation
The table below illustrates a summary of the Group’s contractual obligations and commitments as at March 31, 2024:
Payments due by period | ||||||||||||||||
Total | less than 1 year | 1-3 years | 3-5 years | |||||||||||||
Short-term Debt Obligations | 3.1 | 3.1 | - | - | ||||||||||||
Capitalized lease obligations | 0.3 | 0.1 | 0.2 | - | ||||||||||||
Convertible debt obligations | 4.1 | 4.0 | 0.1 | - | ||||||||||||
Preferred shares obligation | 9.4 | - | 9.4 | - | ||||||||||||
Total | 16.9 | 7.2 | 9.7 | - |
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Overview
Diginex Limited is a Cayman Islands exempted company with subsidiaries located in Hong Kong, United Kingdom and United States of America. Diginex Limited is the sole owner of Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited, a Hong Kong corporation (“DSL”) and DSL is the sole owner of (i) Diginex Services Limited, a corporation formed in the United Kingdom and (ii) Diginex USA LLC, a limited liability company formed in the State of Delaware. Prior to the Restructuring, DSL was the parent entity and remains the main operating subsidiary. DSL is a Hong Kong domiciled technology company that builds end to end SaaS solutions for the future of ESG reporting and supply chain due diligence. The demands for companies to report on ESG components of their business and perform extensive due diligence on their supply chain is increasing at pace. DSL has built products to address those demands. As well as offering SaaS solution, DSL also offers advisory services to support overall ESG strategies. Such advisory services can range from advising on credible reporting solutions to training plus providing a managed service to, for example, help collate and consolidate data throughout a supply chain. Managed Services will be expanded into a separate business line in 2024.
History
On May 15, 2020, Diginex Limited (“Diginex HK”), a company incorporated in Hong Kong, an entity related to the Company, together with Diginex Solutions Limited, sold the legal entities of Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited (referred to herein as “DSL”) and Diginex USA LLC, together with the trademarks associated with the “Diginex” name, to a related party, Rhino Ventures Limited, an entity controlled, via 100% shareholding, by Miles Pelham, the founder and former chairman of Diginex HK and founder of DSL and the Company (the “DSL 2020 Acquisition Agreement”). A copy of the DSL 2020 Acquisition Agreement is attached to this Registration Statement as Exhibit 10.1. The consideration of $6.0 million, that was paid by Rhino Ventures Limited (“RVL”) for Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited and Diginex USA LLC, was netted against the shareholder loan of $10.5 million between Diginex HK and Pelham Limited, another entity controlled by Miles Pelham. In addition, Diginex HK agreed to fund the business of DSL for six months following the sale at a 25% discount to the projected costs. Such funding amounted to $1.0 million. Pelham Limited remained a shareholder of Diginex HK after this transaction but is no longer a shareholder of Diginex HK.
Following the sale of DSL and Diginex USA, Diginex HK underwent a restructuring, in September 2020, which resulted in a share for share exchange with its newly incorporated parent company, Eqonex Limited. Eqonex Limited and its subsidiaries were active in the cryptocurrency industry but DSL and Diginex USA had no involvement in cryptocurrency. DSL focused on ESG reporting and Diginex USA employed individuals to support the DSL operations. Also in September 2020, Eqonex Limited completed a transaction with a special purpose acquisition company, 8i Enterprises Acquisition Corp and started to list on Nasdaq under the ticker code ‘EQOS’ on 1 October 2022. Eqonex Limited subsequently filed for Judicial Management in Singapore in November 2022 and Diginex HK was placed into liquidation at the same time. Judicial Management is a method of debt restructuring where an independent judicial manager is appointed to manage the affairs of a company under financial distress. The Judicial Management and liquidation process is still ongoing at the time of filing this document and the stock has been delisted from Nasdaq, Neither DSL, Rhino Ventures or Miles Pelham have any affiliated interest with either business nor do they have any assets at risk as a result of the Judicial Management and liquidation processes.
With the exception of Paul Ewing, the Company CFO, who still sits on the board of certain subsidiaries of Eqonex Limited, no other officer or director of DSL or the Company has an existing relationship with Eqonex Limited and its subsidiaries including Diginex HK and Diginex Solutions Limited.
The acquisition of DSL included a 100% owned subsidiary, Diginex USA, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company. In September 2021, DSL acquired, Diginex Services Limited, a United Kingdom corporation, for zero consideration from RVL. Diginex Services Limited is a 100% owned subsidiary of DSL.
Diginex Limited is a Cayman Islands exempted company, incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands on January 26, 2024. Upon incorporation, one (1) ordinary share of Diginex Limited was issued to Rhino Ventures Limited. On July 15, 2024, Diginex Limited and Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited (“DSL”) completed a restructuring pursuant to a share exchange agreement (the “Share Exchange Agreement”), whereby the then existing shareholders of DSL (the “Original Shareholders”) transferred all of their shares in DSL to Diginex Limited, in consideration for Diginex Limited’s issuance of substantially the same securities to such shareholders in exchange for the securities of DSL held by Original Shareholders (the “Exchange”). Prior to the Exchange there were 16,756 ordinary shares of DSL issued and outstanding, 3,151 preferred shares of DSL issued and outstanding and 10,172 warrants of DSL issued and outstanding. In the Exchange, each of the securities of DSL were exchanged for substantially the same securities of Diginex Limited at an exchange ratio of one (1) ordinary share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited , one (1) preferred share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Preferred Shares of Diginex Limited and one (1) warrant of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) warrants of Diginex Limited.
Prior to the Exchange on May 28, 2023, DSL agreed to an $8,000,000 share subscription agreement with Rhino Ventures Limited and on September 28, 2023 executed a subscription agreement (the “RVL Subscription Agreement”). Pursuant to the RVL Subscription Agreement, DSL issued Rhino Ventures Limited 5,086 ordinary shares and 10,172 warrants in exchange for $8.0 million. The warrants will be exercisable for ordinary shares of DSL for a period of three years from the date they are issued and shall be exercisable at a per warrant price of US$2,512. Post the completion of the Restructuring and Share Subdivision (as defined below), the number of warrants of Diginex Limited issued to Rhino Ventures Limited was adjusted to 4,170,520 from 10,172 with an adjusted price per warrant of US$6.13. The warrants, if fully exercised, will result in the issuance of such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 51% of the total issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of the warrants being exercised. This will be prorated for partial exercise of warrants. Rhino Ventures Limited paid the subscription price by the payment of $6.1 million in cash and the forgiveness of $1.9 million of debt due to Rhino Ventures Limited. The RVL Subscription Agreement also activated an anti-dilution clause in the Articles of Association of DSL which resulted in HBM IV, Inc. being issued 151 preferred shares of DSL for zero consideration. This increased HBM IV, Inc.’s holding to 3,151 preferred shares of DSL.
In connection with the Exchange, Diginex Limited and security holders of DSL consummated the following transactions (the “Ancillary Transactions”): (i) Diginex Limited issued $4.35 million new convertible loan notes to certain Original Shareholders in consideration for the cancellation of the then existing convertible loan notes issued by DSL and held by such Original Shareholders; (ii) Diginex Limited granted certain share options under the new share option plan that was adopted by Diginex Limited to the holders of the unexercised share options granted by DSL (the “Original Share Options”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Share Options held by such holders. At time of the Exchange there were 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting and (iii) Diginex Limited granted certain warrants to purchase Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited to the holders of the then existing warrants to purchase ordinary shares of DSL (the “Original Warrants”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Warrants held by such holders. The convertible loan notes will automatically convert into Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited upon the effectiveness of this registration statement and whilst there is no automatic vesting of any unvested share options upon completion of this Offering the board of directors do have the ability to accelerate vesting at any point. At the time of this registration statement there was no confirmation if the board of directors will accelerate vesting. The fair value of all unvested ESOP as of the date of this registration statement is $1.8 million of which $0.2 million was recognized in the combined financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2024.
Accordingly, upon consummation of the Exchange and the Ancillary Transactions (collectively the “Restructuring”), DSL became a wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited, and the prior shareholders of DSL became shareholders of Diginex Limited. The remaining DSL security holders became security holders of Diginex Limited, in that they held Diginex Limited convertible loan notes, share options and warrants. Following, the closing of the Restructuring there is 6,869,961 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited issued and outstanding, 1,291,910 preferred shares of Diginex Limited issued and outstanding, 4,179,520 warrants issued and outstanding, $4.35 million new convertible loan notes issued and outstanding and 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting.
Following the Restructuring, on July 26, 2024, the Company completed a share subdivision (the “Share Subdivision”) such that, the authorized share capital of the Company was revised to be US$50,000 divided into 960,000,000 Ordinary Shares of US$0.00005 par value each and 40,000,000 preferred shares (the “Preferred Shares”), par value US$0.00005 per share. Prior to the Share Subdivision there were 6,869,961 ordinary shares and 1,291,910 preferred shares issued and outstanding, and after the Share Subdivision there are 13,739,922 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding.
During the Restructuring, a $1 million loan due from DSL to a related company, Diginex Holdings Limited, a company controlled by Rhino Ventures Limited, was converted into a $1 million convertible loan note of which Rhino Ventures Limited holds $517,535 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note and Working Capital Innovation Fund II L.P. holds $482,465 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note. The loan between DSL and Diginex Holdings Limited charged interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. The terms of the new convertible loan notes also charge interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. This $1 million convertible loan note forms part of the $4.35 million loan notes issued by Diginex Limited post the Restructuring.
On August 6, 2024 certain Employee Share Option Plan (“ESOP”) holders exercised their options and converted their options into Ordinary Shares. 501,840 employee share options were converted into 1,003,680 Ordinary Shares whilst 109,470 employee share options lapsed without being exercised. In addition, 368,826 employee share options were issued on July 31, 2024 and on August 21, 2024 employee share options were issued to 0.5% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting. The remaining employee share options as at the time of this registration statement are 41,945 vested but not exercised, 368,826 unvested employee share options and unvested employee share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.7% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting. Prior to the exercise of 501,840 options on August 6, 2024 there were 13,739,922 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding, and after such exercise of 501,840 options there are 14,743,602 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding.
Since 17th November 2023, Rhino Ventures Limited (“RVL”) issued convertible notes (the “Rhino Notes”) to various investors (each a “Rhino Investor” and collectively the “Rhino Investors”). In exchange for a loan from a Rhino Investor, RVL issued the Rhino Investor a Rhino Note. The Rhino Notes are convertible into DSL ordinary shares, or successor securities, that were owned by RVL at a conversion price of between USD2.78 to USD2.99. The Rhino Notes were convertible into RVL’s shares of DSL ordinary shares, or successor securities, (1) at the option of the Rhino Investor or (2) automatically upon F-1 either being effective or having received 2 or below comments. On August 7, 2024, six of the Rhino Investors elected to convert their Rhino Notes and RVL transferred an aggregate amount of 2,992,180 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited, the successor securities to the DSL ordinary shares, to the six Rhino Investors as follows: (i) Samantha Dolan received 327,189 Ordinary Shares, (ii) Christopher Lord received 418,200 Ordinary Shares, (iii) Dorota Menard received 400,980 Ordinary Shares, (iv) Gildo Plate received 294,380 Ordinary Shares and (v) Natalia Pelham received 1,049,600 Ordinary Shares and (vi) Benjamin Salter received 501,840 Ordinary Shares. Currently, there are eight Rhino Investors that hold Rhino Notes which are collectively convertible into an aggregate amount of 1,775,300 Ordinary Shares. RVL may issue additional Rhino Notes prior to the completion of this Offering. Other than Natalia Pelham, who is our Chairman’s wife, the Rhino Investors are not related to Mr. Pelham nor are they affiliates to the Company. As of the date of this registration statement RVL holds 9,333,242 Ordinary Shares, which does not include the reduction for RVL’s Ordinary Shares that will be issued upon the conversion of the outstanding Rhino Notes.
DSL, Diginex Limited’s wholly owned subsidiary, currently owes RVL $2.4 million under a loan agreement, dated September 29, 2024 (“RVL Loan”), and RVL will continue to fund Diginex Limited, via DSL through the completion of this Offering. Diginex Limited and RVL have agreed that RVL shall convert up to $3 million of the RVL Loan into Ordinary Shares upon the pricing of this Offering at the IPO offering price. Based on the assumed offering price of $5.00 per share, upon the pricing of the Offering, RVL’s loan, assuming loan balance of $3 million, the RVL Loan will convert into 600,000 Ordinary Shares. In exchange for RVL’s conversion of the RVL Loan into Ordinary Shares, Diginex Limited has agreed to provide RVL registration rights with respect to the Ordinary Shares that RVL receives upon conversion of the RVL Loan. The conversion of the RVL Loan is in addition to the conversion of the RVL convertible loan note with a principal balance of $517,535. The RVL Loan is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.9.
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On the business side, DSL launched diginexESG in 2020 and diginexLumen in 2022, Over the same period DSL has engaged with multiple clients for both advisory and customization work, including offering diginexESG and diginexLumen as a white label solution. DSL has engaged and retained some high profile clients such as Coca Cola, HSBC and Unilever.
Industry Background
“ESG” is the most recent evolution in corporate sustainability thinking, and it encapsulates a series of Environmental, Social, and Governance-related criteria to measure and evaluate both business impacts as well as risks and opportunities.
● Environmental (E): This pillar focuses on a company’s impact on the natural environment as well as how it manages environmental risks and opportunities. It includes considerations like carbon emissions, energy use, waste management, water conservation, biodiversity loss, and compliance with environmental regulations.
● Social (S): This dimension focuses on a company’s impact on society and how it treats different groups of people, including employees, suppliers, customers, and the communities where it operates. It also addresses people-related risks and opportunities for the company. Key issues include workplace health & safety, diversity & inclusion, human rights and forced labor, data protection, and community engagement.
● Governance (G): This component refers to the structures, processes and internal controls a company uses to guide its operations. Internally, it encompasses leadership structures, executive pay, ethical and corporate guidelines, and decision-making processes. Externally, it involves stakeholder engagement, compliance with regulations, and transparent disclosure practices.
In the modern business landscape, ESG considerations have emerged as paramount. Corporate governance, sustainability, and the consideration of environmental and social concerns are not new to the business world. But as global ESG-related challenges like climate change, societal inequalities, and corporate scandals become more pronounced and understood, the importance of ESG factors has soared. Key stakeholders, including regulators, investors, and customers, now increasingly demand transparency and accountability on these fronts.
On the regulatory side, corporate disclosure and ESG-related disclosure mandates are on the rise globally, with regulators increasingly mandating standardized and transparent reporting of companies’ ESG performance to ensure stakeholders, particularly investors, have access to comprehensive, comparable, and reliable information. The European Union and the US currently lead in regulatory developments, starting with a focus on financial market participants, large corporations and climate-related disclosures. Some of the most relevant regulatory developments around the world are:
● EU CSRD/ESRS: Adopted in January 2023, the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) significantly expands and strengthens the corporate disclosure requirements compared to its predecessor, the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD). Under the CSRD, a broader range of companies, including all large companies and all companies listed on regulated markets (except listed micro-enterprises), are required to disclose detailed information on how they manage social and environmental challenges through the EU Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS). Among its key requirements, the directive mandates a “double materiality” assessment, meaning companies must report not only on how sustainability issues affect their business, but also on the impact their business has on people and the environment. The information must be provided in the management report as part of the company’s regular financial reporting, ensuring a consistent and comparable format. The directive also requires that the reported information be third-party audited and be digitally tagged, increasing the credibility, accessibility and usability of sustainability information. The largest 50,000 companies in the EU as well as certain companies outside the EU with subsidiaries or operations in the region must begin reporting in 2025. Reporting obligations are planned to extend to other large companies, listed SMEs, and other international corporates over the next 5 years.
● EU CSDDD: The Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), proposed in February 2022 and currently moving through the European Union legislative process, establishes a corporate due diligence duty with the aim of preventing adverse Human Rights and environmental impacts in the company’s own operations and across their value chains. The proposed directive would oblige companies to conduct due diligence not just on their own operations, but also on the activities of their subsidiaries and other entities in their value chains with which they have direct and indirect established business relationships. They would need to develop and implement “prevention action plans”, obtain contractual assurances from their direct business partners that they will comply with the plans, and subsequently verify compliance. This act would enforce compliance through fines, sanctions, and orders, and requires annual disclosure of risk procedures, preventive measures, and remediation actions. The directive would apply to approximately 12,800 EU-based and 4,000 non-EU large companies, including financial services companies and those in high-impact industries such as textiles, agriculture, or extraction of minerals. SMEs would not be directly in scope, but they could be affected in their capacity as contractors or subcontractors to any of the above companies. The Directive is unlikely to come into force until 2025 at the earliest.
● EU SFDR: In place since March 2021, the EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) requires ESG disclosure by financial market participants with the objective to re-orient capital flows towards sustainable investments by increasing transparency on sustainability risks, whilst ensuring a more uniform protection of end investors. The SFDR was introduced by the European Commission alongside the Taxonomy Regulation and the Low Carbon Benchmarks Regulation as part of a package of legislative measures arising from the European Commission’s Action Plan on Sustainable Finance. The SFDR requires asset managers such as AIFMs and UCITS managers to provide prescript and standardized disclosures on how ESG factors are integrated at both an entity and product level. A significant portion of the SFDR applies to all asset managers, whether or not they have an express ESG or sustainability focus.
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● Stock Exchange ESG disclosure mandates: Globally, 38 stock exchanges currently mandate ESG disclosure as a listing requirement while 72 provide guidance on ESG reporting, with a clear trend towards growing mandatory requirements. As of January 2024, countries with stock exchanges requiring ESG disclosure as a listing rule currently include Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Hong Kong, Croatia, Egypt, France, Greece, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Morocco, Namibia, Netherlands, Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United State, Vietnam and Zimbabwe. To illustrate with an example:
○ Hong Kong Stock Exchange: In 2016, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX) introduced a requirement for listed companies to publish annual ESG reports including specified mandatory disclosures and requiring other disclosures on a comply or explain basis. These requirements were upgraded in 2020 and 2022, partly to steer issuers and reporting toward more Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures (“TCFD”)-aligned climate risk disclosure. As part of the current requirements, companies must report on their approach to ESG management, including the board’s oversight of ESG matters, the company’s progress towards ESG-related targets, and in particular the impact of significant climate-related issues, risks, and opportunities on their operations. In 2023, the HKEX started preparing an update to their ESG Reporting Code to be implemented in 2025. This latest update seeks to enhance and tighten climate disclosure requirements as well as align those with the IFRS International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) S2 climate-focused standard.
● ISSB: In November 2021, the International Financial Reporting Standards Foundation (IFRS) —which administers the IFRS financial accounting standards that are used in most jurisdictions other than the United States –established the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) to become the global standard-setter for sustainability disclosures for the financial markets. The ISSB brings together an alphabet soup of organizations under one roof, consolidating the work of earlier initiatives into a single entity. With the endorsement of the G7, G20, and the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO), regulatory bodies globally are already adopting and aligning with the ISSB/IFRS standards. This development is set to impact and influence the ongoing development and increase in disclosure mandates by stock exchanges globally.
● SEC Climate Disclosure Rules: On March 6, 2024, the SEC adopted final rules mandating public companies and those in public offerings to disclose a broad range of climate-related risks and their financial implications, including material impacts on business strategy, operations, and financial conditions, as well as specific mitigation efforts and emissions data. The rules include requirements to disclose the financial effects of severe weather events and other natural conditions in the audited financial statements. Larger registrants will also be required to disclose information about greenhouse gas emissions, which will be subject to a phased-in assurance requirement. This initiative aims to provide investors with consistent, reliable, and comparable information, enforcing clear reporting standards within SEC filings to enhance transparency and accountability in how companies manage climate-related challenges. The rules were expected to be effective sixty (60) days after they are published in the federal register, and they will be phased in for publicly reporting companies between 2025 and 2031. The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals temporarily put the climate reporting rules temporarily on hold on March 15, 2024 amid litigation challenging the regulations. The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals later restored the SEC’s climate disclosure regulations on March 22, 2024. The rule challenges are now expected to be heard by the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals
● UFLPA: The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA), directs the Forced Labor Enforcement Task Force to develop a strategy for supporting enforcement of the prohibition on the importation of goods into the United States manufactured wholly or in part with forced labor in the People’s Republic of China, especially from the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, or Xinjiang. The UFLPA is effective since June 2022, and requires importers to review their supply chains, instate reliable measures to ensure compliance with the UFLPA, and be prepared to respond to inquiries from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) with sufficient evidence to demonstrate that their goods were not mined, produced, or manufactured wholly or in part by forced labor. This can include documentation showing a due diligence system or process, evidence of tracing the supply chain from raw materials to the imported good, and other credentials demonstrating supply chain management measures.
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At the same time, on the investors side, interest in ESG is rising exponentially, reshaping the financial landscape and putting increased pressure on corporates to disclose ESG performance data. ESG-oriented assets under management (AUM) are likely to significantly grow in the EU, more than double in the United States, and triple in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region by 2026. In turn, the global sustainable lending and bond market size is has multiplied in the last years and is expected to keep its pace.
Consumer demands are also putting additional pressure on transparency and ESG performance. Growing concerns about environmental challenges as well as greater expectations around societal issues have brought sustainability into the mainstream. As a result, consumers increasingly prioritize environmental and social responsibility in their purchasing decisions with a growing demand for sustainable products and companies.
A key characteristic of the ESG movement is its reliance on data and measurable metrics. In contrast to previous corporate sustainability movements (e.g., CSR) which often involved self-regulated practices and policies, ESG is grounded on quantifiable and comparable data based on specific metrics to validate outcomes and performance. As such, regulatory pressures, investor interest and changing consumer demands are putting significant pressure on corporates to produce, manage and disclosure ESG performance data, relating to both their own business as well as their supply chain.
As ESG becomes integral to business strategies, investor criteria, and regulatory compliance, there is a growing need for specialized tools to handle ESG data. As the volume and complexity of ESG data, disclosure and performance requirements increase, tools that can gather, analyze, and present this information in a cohesive manner that adheres to key requirements become indispensable. In an environment where ESG performance and disclosure can directly influence investor decisions, brand reputation, and regulatory compliance, having precise and comprehensive ESG software tools is crucial for businesses. Three prominent examples of ESG software include:
● ESG reporting & data management software, which generally facilitates the systematic collection, organization, and presentation of a company’s ESG performance data. It provides a structured platform for businesses to document and report their sustainability and ethical initiatives, ensuring transparency and adherence to established standards. Such software is instrumental in meeting the increasing demands of stakeholders, regulators, and investors for comprehensive and verifiable ESG disclosures.
● Carbon management software, which generally helps businesses to quantify, monitor, and manage their Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. By providing insights into carbon-producing activities and their implications, this type of software typically aids in the formulation of strategies to reduce carbon footprints. Companies use these tools to align with environmental standards, regulatory requirements, and sustainability goals.
● Supply chain sustainability software, which generally assists companies in overseeing the sustainability practices within their supply chain, providing tools to evaluate and ensure that suppliers and partners adhere to prescribed ethical, environmental, and social standards. By providing a holistic view of the supply chain’s sustainability performance, this type of software supports companies in maintaining integrity throughout their operations, mitigating risks and reinforcing commitment to responsible sourcing and production.
The market for ESG software is already experiencing rapid growth and is expected to keep its pace over the coming years.
● The ESG reporting & data management software market was estimated to be worth USD 0.7 billion in 2022. Estimates for its projected growth vary from USD 1.5 billion to 4.35 billion by 2027, showcasing robust compound annual growth rates of anywhere between 15.9% and 30% over the next 5 years.1,2
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● The carbon management software market reached a size of $343 million in 2021, with growth at a CAGR of 28% to reach $1.4 billion in 2027, influenced by upcoming mandatory climate-related regulations from 2024 to 2026, as well as macroeconomic and voluntary drivers.3
● The supply chain sustainability software market was worth over $991 million in 2021 and will grow to nearly $4.3 billion in 2027, at a CAGR of 28%.4
As ESG becomes increasingly important, companies are not only looking for software to gain operational efficiencies and streamline their reporting, data management, and compliance processes. Corporates are also increasingly relying on consulting services to support them in their sustainability and ESG programs. ESG consulting covers a wide range of services, including support for ESG & sustainability corporate strategy, digital transformation, corporate reporting and disclosures, operational transformation, product stewardship and supply chain sustainability, among others. In par with the software market, investment in ESG and sustainability consulting reached $6 billion in 2021 and forecasts a global CAGR of 17% to reach $16 billion by 2027.5
In 2022, the market was estimated to be worth USD 0.7 billion. Estimates for its projected growth vary from USD 1.5 billion to 4.35 billion by 2027, showcasing robust compound annual growth rates of anywhere between 15.9% and 30% over the next 5 years2,3.
By some estimates, Europe is expected to become the leading market for ESG reporting and data management digital tools, expanding at a 34% CAGR from 2021 to 20274. This is largely due to the leading role that the EU is playing in passing detailed disclosure regulations. That said, the highlighted trends are global, and markets such as the USA, Canada and Singapore are expected to follow closely. In fact, a 2023 market research study finds that adoption of ESG reporting and data management solutions has so far been strongest in the USA5,6.
Going forward, technological innovations like AI and IoT are expected to keep driving market growth, making data collection and analysis more nuanced. Additionally, as ESG becomes a global standard, emerging markets will also substantially contribute to the growth, requiring businesses there to adopt ESG reporting tools.
1. Competitive landscape and pricing
As authorities worldwide write new corporate sustainability regulations, the market for ESG services and software that helps companies with ESG data management and disclosure compliance efforts has blossomed. These solutions typically offer the features and resources required to gather, examine, and report on ESG data, assisting businesses in adhering to regulations and effectively promoting their sustainability initiatives. This ensures that businesses can effectively meet regulatory obligations while also monitoring their progress toward ESG goals.
The ESG reporting and data management software landscape today is somewhat fragmented and quickly evolving. Three key factors provide a useful lens through which to segment and understand the current landscape.
- | From a positioning or heritage perspective, the market features a mix of legacy enterprise software companies, dedicated ESG tech start-ups, and consulting companies with ESG tech capabilities. | |
- | Across these companies, ESG providers will typically offer various horizontal functionalities relevant to ESG (e.g. data management, reporting and disclosure, operational performance, etc.) and then apply these vertically across the three E, S, and G verticals, or focus clearly on a sub-area (e.g. waste management). | |
- | Additionally, ESG solution providers can be split according to their target audience, with a clear distinction between solutions targeted at financial institutions and regular corporates, and between those aimed at large and complex enterprises or rather small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). |
1 Markets & Markets, 2022. ESG Reporting Software Market.
2 Verdantix, 2023. Market Size And Forecast: ESG Reporting Software Solutions 2021-2027 (Global)
3 Verdantix, 2022. Market Size And Forecast: Carbon Management Software 2021-2027 (Global)
4 Verdantix, 2023. Market Size And Forecast: Supply Chain Sustainability Software 2021-2027 (Global)
5Verdantix, 2022. ESG And Sustainability Consulting: Market Size and Forecast 2021-2027
6 ESG Reporting Software Market Size & Forecast Report 2030 (psmarketresearch.com)
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Legacy software: Traditional and typically large software titans emerging from either the environment, health, safety, and quality (EHS&Q), Financial reporting or enterprise resource planning (ERP) software markets, who are now venturing into ESG realms. They generally offer intricate and comprehensive solutions cutting across several horizontal functionalities, specializing in select ESG verticals, aimed at large enterprise customers across industries, with complex structures and needs. The annual cost for these solutions ranges widely, as offerings tend to be highly customizable, but given the target audience it often goes up to the hundreds of thousands dollars a year.
● | EHS&Q software generally focuses on risk management, workplace health and safety, and quality control within daily operations, mainly catering to industries with significant operational and regulatory risks. Wolters Kluwer’s Enablon, Sphera, Quentic, Intelex, Cority, or VelocityEHS, are traditional EHS&Q solution providers strategically repositioning themselves to partially rebrand to focus more broadly on ESG as a material revenue opportunity This segment typically has in-depth knowledge of specific ESG issues (e.g., Health & Safety) but may lack know-how and capabilities across the broad spectrum of ESG and are typically focused on risk management and compliance rather than reporting. | |
● | Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software solutions are generally comprehensive, integrated systems designed to manage a business’s core functions and processes, such as finance, human resources, supply chain, manufacturing, and customer relations. Traditional ERP vendors like SAP, Salesforce, Oracle and even Microsoft are adding ESG data modules to their enterprise solutions. These types of solutions typically shine in capabilities like complex data management and integrations but lack experience and ESG-specific know-how. | |
● | Financial reporting software, distinct yet sometimes integrated into ERPs, specifically caters to the generation, analysis, and presentation of financial data and statements, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulations. These firms are actively increasing the depth and breadth of non-financial KPIs on offer, integrating ESG into their core product suite (E.g. Cube, Insight Software, or Workiva). Already recognized in their core area, they are now also slowly establishing themselves in the sustainability field. |
Legacy consulting and audit firms: This group captures traditional and often large consulting and audit companies that are quickly developing ESG capabilities both in terms of services (E.g., ESG advisory and assurance) and software capabilities. As ESG consulting projects increasingly require granular sustainability data and sophisticated software to amalgamate these data for strategic monitoring and compliance, consultancy firms increasingly need expertise and technical ability to create a suitable offering. As such, many of the major players have partnered with existing, typically legacy solutions to fill the need. These companies tend to offer a large variety of consulting services now in combination with ESG software tools, generally aimed at large multinationals and naturally at high costs.
EY has partnered with Enablon, a legacy global leader in integrated risk, operational risk and EHS management software, to use their technology to help provide organizations with end-to-end management and reporting of ESG data. Bain and Company recently announced7 the backing of a new venture and ESG data management solution that aims to help industrial and manufacturing companies better achieve their sustainability goals. PwC is working with legacy ESG performance and risk management software provider Sphera, providing PwC’s clients with access to Sphera’s ESG software solutions. Deloitte has partnered with Workiva to support clients in establishing or enhanced accounting, financial and ESG regulatory reporting8.
In this group we could also include companies like IBM, a global technology and digital consultancy, which acquired ESG reporting and data management Envizi in January 2022, and is expanding its range of ESG services. As well as ESG specialized consultancies like ERM, which have been acquiring dedicated consultancies and technology providers.
7 Bain & Co, 2023 New Bain & Company-Backed Venture Aims to Help Companies Better Trace Data, Achieve Sustainability Goals
8 Deloitte, 2022 Deloitte Launches New ESG Accelerators
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Agile start-ups and niche solutions. This group captures a variety of relatively new ESG pure-play companies that are coming into the market, typically specialized as point solutions. DSL belongs to this group in the market, which now makes up the large proportion of firms in this space. Many of these solutions are currently still specializing in customer groups, in particular industries, and are gradually expanding their offerings horizontally and vertically. Pricing for these solutions is highly dependent on the target audience, but subscriptions are generally less expensive than those offered by legacy software.
● | Specialized thematic solutions: These solutions focus on a particular area of ESG. The environmental area and, in particular, point solutions for carbon management (e.g. measurement, reduction, offsetting) have attracted the most attention in the market. Other notable players in this space are PlanA, Planetly, Normative, Watershed or Greenly. Carbon management platforms are very likely to continue to grow, as firms will increasingly need to deliver on their net-zero pledges and comply with upcoming regulations (e.g., SEC). Our diginexClimate module fits within this group, although we are not a specialized climate or carbon platform as the module is an integrated component of diginexESG. | |
Our DiginexLUMEN product fits in this category as well, with a strong focus on the social part of ESG. | ||
● | Functionality-oriented ESG generalists: These solutions tend to cover a broad spectrum of ESG topics but focus and differentiate themselves by covering key horizontal functionality applicable to ESG reporting and data management processes, including: |
○ | Data management: mainly includes tools that help to collect, aggregate and manage sustainability and ESG performance metrics within the enterprise, and generate valuable insights. | |
○ | Reporting and disclosure: mostly designed to meet regulatory requirements and is therefore closely aligned with predefined frameworks standards. A number of solutions expand beyond this horizontal into the analytics segment, offering data analytics capabilities that go beyond regulatory requirements. | |
○ | Operational performance & analytics: enables progress towards KPIs and targets by identifying, tracking, and supporting the optimization of key operational metrics of a company and its supply chain. Two prominent aspects to be tracked are emissions and activities along the supply chain. | |
○ | Other key processes, including, as a notable example, materiality assessments. These tools help companies identify the key material topics for their business and industry based on various data sources and may include capabilities to engage key stakeholders. |
As disclosure regulations grow and evolve, the demand for ESG reporting software solutions is gaining momentum. Corporates need solutions that help them comply with complex and specific disclosure requirements of different standards and regulatory frameworks while cutting down on time-consuming processes. Most “new” players in the ESG reporting and data management landscape fit in this category, including diginexESG. Within the “new” players, there is a clear difference between those targeting financial institutions and regular corporates, and those targeting large multinationals and SMEs.
○ | Focus on financial institutions: Novata, ClarityAI, Arabesque S-ray, Apiday | |
○ | Focus on non-financial corporates (mostly large multinationals): Greenstone+, Worldfavor, Accuvio (now Diligent ESG), Novisto, Nasdaq’s Metrio, Envoria, Celsia, Position Green, ESG Playbook, Brightest, Greenomy. | |
○ | Focus on non-financial corporates (mostly SMEs): diginexESG |
2. Outlook
The trajectory of ESG reporting software is clear — it is moving from a niche to a necessity. The future is likely to witness tighter software integrations across business functions, refined AI-driven analytics, and an ever-increasing emphasis on user experience. As SMEs continue to play a pivotal role in global economies, software solutions tailored to their needs, both functional and financial, will take center stage in the ESG narrative.
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Our Business Lines
DSL currently offers several products, diginexESG, diginexCLIMATE, diginexLUMEN, diginexADVISORY and diginexPARTNERS. Revenues from diginexPARTNERS is and has traditionally been the largest revenue contributor for DSL and this is primarily due to the size and scale of the projects undertaken. We have the largest number of clients in diginexESG, but given the lower price per subscription for this product it was the second highest contribution of revenue in the financial year ended 31 March 2024. diginexLUMEN has a smaller number of clients but demand a higher price per subscription and was the lowest contributor of revenue in the year ended 31 March 2024. diginexADVISORY offers bespoke solutions for clients and revenues are typically based on the number of hours to compete the assigned task. diginexADVISORY clients tend to also be either diginexESG or diginexLUMEN clients.
DSL has clients in close to 30 countries, however more than 75% of the US$1.3 million of revenue generated in the year ended 31 March 2024 originated from clients based in the United States of America (US$0.5 million, 39% of revenue), United Kingdom (US$0.1 million, 12% of revenue), Hong Kong (US$0.1 million, 8% of revenue) and Singapore (US$0.2 million, 18% of revenue). The clients in these countries engaged in diginexPARTNERS lead projects which accounted for the larger share of revenues.
Revenue generated from each business line for the years ending 31 March (in millions):
2024 | 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
DiginexESG/LUMEN | 0.4 | 0.4 | ||||||
DiginexADVISORY | 0.2 | 0.2 | ||||||
DiginexPARTNERS | 0.7 | 1.0 | ||||||
Total | 1.3 | 1.6 |
diginexESG & diginexClimate
DSL maintains a core hypothesis that companies should spend more time improving their sustainability performance than reporting on it. That is one of the main reasons that we have created an intuitive, fast, and affordable ESG reporting tool that facilitates the entire process and supports companies regardless of their size, industry, or sustainability experience.
diginexESG is an ESG reporting platform that facilitates the key processes involved in corporate ESG reporting journeys through a 5 -step journey. The platform leverages data driven intelligence also referred to as machine learning to automate the generation of a “materiality assessment”; the topics which each company should consider reporting on based on their profile. The creation of the “materiality assessment” involves algorithmic matching to a variety of data sources including the manual input of reporting requirements by the client’s own stakeholders. This process can be expensive and lengthy if conducted through traditional consultants. It is typical then to engage in a process of “stakeholder engagement” to collect feedback from different groups inside and outside the company on which topics are important to them. These groups could include employees, investors, board members and customers. diginexESG helps facilitate large scale outreach to and data collection from these groups of stakeholders. Within the platform there are up to 17 frameworks and reporting standards from which companies can choose to report against (as of January 2024). The platform then breaks down the reporting process by “indicator” and allows for direct data entry or the assignment of indicators to different data contributors from both inside and outside the company (for example, indicators relating to diversity metrics may be assigned to the company’s HR team. This transparent digital workflow process drives efficiency and allows companies to move away from email and excel data collection. Once the data collection process is finalized, companies can seamlessly generate an output from within the platform by leveraging a report generation engine. The last step prior to report finalization and publishing is to seek approval from the appropriate people (i.e. CEO, Board, CFO, external auditor). The blockchain-enabled audit files helps with this sign-off process by allowing approvers to see full data provenance around each indicator. The report is then ready to be issued and shared through PDF, Word or Excel.
Blockchain is utilized within our ESG reporting platform as an immutable source of events history. The platform posts records to the public blockchain (Tezos) regarding the key events that occur on the platform such as data upload, data edit and report approval to support client investigations and audit. Without this blockchain feature, the investigations and audit procedure are still possible but will require a more manual and time consuming review of data provenance.
diginexCLIMATE, a module of diginexESG, supports a company’s broader ESG efforts by allowing businesses to calculate, track and improve their carbon footprint. Companies can also use the platform to collect, benchmark and get a portfolio view on the carbon footprint of their clients, suppliers, or assets.
Sales and Marketing
Commercial efforts are driven by combination of i) inbound leads generated by social media activity primarily on LinkedIn, ii) targeted outbound activity by leveraging lead generation tools focused on specific industries, countries and lead profile (for example, Chief Financial Officers in mid-sized UK based Industrials companies), and iii) referrals through our channel partners such as HSBC and Fitch Ratings. The referrals via channel partners are just commencing following a successful six month program with HSBC in the Middle East and the launch of Fitch diginexESG white label platform and as such, revenues generated via channel partners are currently low and do not form a material component of DSL’s overall revenues. Since initial engagement with the channel partners to the date of this registration statement, DSL had generated less than $20,000 from reselling to HSBC clients and zero from Fitch. In addition, in the year ended March 2024, DSL generated $0.1 million from a diginexESG license to Fitch and $0.1 million from HSBC in relation to the six month program in the Middle East. For sales via channel partners, we typically retain between 50% and 70% of the revenue generated. We also actively attend events and conferences both as speakers and also as conference exhibitors, which generates inbound interest. Our social media is mostly concentrated through our company LinkedIn channel with regular postings.
We will continue to grow our sales team, and we expect to increase in the number of sales professionals in multiple locations around the world. Currently, the Sales team consists of two dedicated sales employees who are supported by four other employees that have sales responsibilities as part of wider roles within the organization.
We also rely on active account management of existing customers by our customer success teams through both cross-selling and upselling.
Clients
diginexESG was initially created with a specific client demographic in mind; small to mid-sized enterprises who are new to ESG and climate reporting and with limited budgets or bandwidth to engage in a complex and new process. This continues today, with our core focus on helping to democratize sustainability reporting for companies of all sizes no matter the budget or sophistication. Sustainability reporting encompasses a broad range of economic, environmental, and social disclosures, traditionally with a focus on how a business impacts the world and key stakeholders. ESG reporting, influenced primarily by investor demands, is a subset of sustainability reporting that specifically hones in on how Environmental, Social and Governance aspects impact a company or investment. ESG reporting provides a standardized framework and metrics to assess a company’s non-financial performance and risk management, often with a more direct link to financial outcomes. This approach then appealed to much larger organizations such as commercial banks (HSBC), ratings agencies (Fitch Ratings), and insurance companies who increasingly needed to not only report on their own activities but also collect sustainability data from the many SMEs that they worked with, for sustainability linked loans, responsible underwriting, or to better understand regulatory risk. The ability to scale diginexESG easily and affordability by disintermediating potentially expensive consultants from the process continues to be a compelling unique selling point as demonstrated by HSBC’s decision to partner with us in order to engage their SME customer base.
Since diginexESG launched in 2020, we have continued to add features which have also appealed to large caps with more complex hierarchical structures and data reporting requirements. This has included private equity funds with multiple portfolio companies and the need to aggregate data reporting up to an LP, as well as conglomerates with separate business units across different industries. Prior to the launch of diginexESG the Company focused primarily on customization projects.
As referred to above, we continue to add features to diginexESG and diginexLUMEN by utilizing the benefits of our hybrid working model for technology and design. Conceptual work and prototyping are broadly sourced internally through our team of product managers, analysts and technical leads. Our outsourced IT vendor in Vietnam then provides robust dedicated teams of software engineers and quality assurance analysts for actual implementation of production features with the oversight and governance of the internal DSL teams. Currently, the majority of software engineers and quality assurance analysts are outsourced. Ultimately, the accountability for production launches of new features and products sits with the internal infrastructure and development operations management within DSL.
Also included in diginexESG is access to diginexCLIMATE our proprietary carbon footprint calculator based on GHG protocols which is similarly targeted at companies who are new to ESG reporting.
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Competition and Pricing
diginexESG is deliberately priced to be accessible to companies of all sizes. Originally starting at US$99/user/month in December 2020, the product now starts from US$5,000 / year, and includes licenses for up to 3 users. This increase reflects the maturation and growing feature sophistication that we are able to offer. Whilst we expect diginexESG pricing to continue to evolve, we will likely maintain a focus on affordable software.
In contrast, many ESG reporting platforms in the markets are characterized by relatively high-cost software designed more for large companies who have both the required budget and also in-house sustainability consultants with the expertise to be able to operate complex sustainability software products.
As a further point of differentiation, we currently offer a self-guided 7-day free trial to diginexESG for prospective clients to try the diginexESG software prior to subscribing for access to the platform whilst most comparable offerings in the market require engagement with a sales representative first.
In addition to being an intuitive and accessible B2B SaaS platform, our underlying ISO-certified infrastructure and architecture means diginexESG can also pass rigorous and time consuming bank-grade technology security review processes, which adds a competitive advantage for the Company.
Government Regulation
The products themselves are not currently regulated but rather DSL offers software solutions so that companies can track and report on the ever-growing sustainability disclosure requirements put in place by many global regulators i.e. stock exchanges;, for example, diginexESG offers several reporting frameworks that allow companies to generate reports that align to either mandatory or recommended public company listing requirements.
diginexLUMEN
diginexLUMEN helps companies to undertake human rights due diligence in complex supply chains at scale. Supplier information is validated against worker feedback and automated risk calculations enables companies to prioritize issues for mitigation and prevention of adverse impacts and improvement efforts.
Traditionally, technologies used by global brands, consultancies, and international organizations to understand, identify, and manage business and human rights have mainly been standalone worker voice (e.g. grievance mechanism case handling), supply chain management or supplier management, or research surveys software. diginexLUMEN Pro is strongly positioned within the market in that it has the capability to bring together these standalone technologies, in order, to map tiers (supply chain management software) identified through a self-assessment questionnaire completed by suppliers (deployed as a survey), which is triangulated against data collected through an interactive, application-based worker voice technology. In addition, diginexLUMEN Pro is powerful in that it highlights human rights risks due to business practices: firstly, through assigning risk-based scoring to responses, and secondly, by triangulating business and worker responses to demonstrate inconsistencies. Suppliers complete a pre-created questionnaire set which typically incorporates scoring, weighting and conditional logic. Answers often require the upload of supporting documentation. diginexLUMEN customers can also create their own customized questionnaires. At the same time, workers are being asked similar questions via diginexAPPRISE which are designed to validate the answers given by the suppliers. Leveraging a proprietary scoring methodology, risk scores are then assigned to suppliers based on their answers as well as the discrepancies, if any, between their answers and the answers of the workers. Lastly, improvement plans are automatically generated which diginexLUMEN customers then deploy to suppliers and can observe the subsequent corrective action. A high level example may be; a supplier declares that they conduct mandatory safety training for all new hires, however data collected via diginexAPPRISE directly from workers indicates that new hires often do not receive any safety training during their onboarding. A high risk score is assigned to this specific indicator and an improvement plan is automatically generated for the supplier to follow and demonstrate corrective action.
diginexAPPRISE as a standalone worker voice technology product is distinct from other survey software as it has been developed to reach informal workers (often seasonal worker without formal employment contracts in place) in complex and opaque supply chains primarily through the use of QR codes which workers scan on their mobile phones. QR codes also help protect worker anonymity which we have observed to be important to encourage broad participation. The lack of anonymity can give rise to a fear of appraisals if workers give negative feedback. It differs from other worker voice technology as it is auditory and visually represented in workers own language, ensuring accessibility for illiterate workers to respond to questions about their employment practices. Similar competitors use telephone-based services for workers to report issues which could result in mobile charges, as diginexAPPRISE is web/application based and can be accessed either through QR codes or mobile messaging (e.g. WhatsApp) so that workers are not charged to access the survey.
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Sales and Marketing
Officially launched in April 2022 and given the content-deep nature of diginexLUMEN the sales process typically requires a more targeted commercial approach to specific relevant professionals in a company; these can be procurement or risk professionals as well as sustainability experts. diginexLUMEN’s core modules focus on “Conditions at Work” or “Forced Labor” risk, workplace gender risk, and ESG risk This therefore requires specialized DSL professionals who are able to engage with clients on deep content issues around these modules and the regulations that affect them. The sales cycle is also often longer than diginexESG, and can range from 2 months to 6 months.
Additionally, given the high levels of engagement with diginexLUMEN clients this can lead to on-going up-sale opportunities as clients request custom feature development and platform content creation.
Marketing tends to be through attendance and speaking at industry-relevant conferences.
In order to help promote adoption and utilization of our software products, DSL will also increasingly be offering “managed services” to our customers to support their operationalization and roll out needs. This will include services actions such as onboarding, training, learning & development, adoption tracking, and analysis. This is expected to increase both revenues and customer stickiness.
Clients
diginexLUMEN was developed together with input from Coca Cola and Reckitt as a software tool to help identify and mitigate cases of forced and child labor in complex global interjurisdictional supply chains. It later expanded to also include gender risk. diginexLUMEN is therefore designed specifically for large multi-national companies with high supply chains and importantly large numbers of people working at those suppliers who no longer want to rely solely on the traditional in-person audits which have tended to be slow and expensive with relatively static data. These companies are also increasingly subject to regulations mandating greater supply chain disclosure with regards to forced labor / modern slavery due diligence.
Initial clients have focused primarily on companies in FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) and have now expanded to sectors such as agricultural commodities as well as professional services firms working on behalf of their clients.
Competition and Pricing
diginexLUMEN as a software product is unique in having a specific focus on social governance issues (including but not limited to forced labor risk, modern slavery due diligence, child labor risk and gender risk), and leveraging worker voice data to simultaneously validate corporate disclosures.
The pricing for a diginexLUMEN license has been increased recently to a US$40,000 per annum flat fee due to the additional features and functionality that has previously been added to the product. There are no limitations on the number or location of suppliers that a diginexLUMEN customer can onboard In addition to the software license, there are often incremental fees for items such as additional question set design and translation.
diginexADVISORY
Sustainability is a complex topic, and it increasingly requires company-wide, multifaceted approaches. DSL provide a range of services that, in combination with our premium software tools, help companies address their unique ESG challenges.
diginexADVISORY provides strategy and advisory support at every stage of the sustainability journey often alongside a software sale. Our advisory services typically include:
● | Developing ESG (reporting) strategies | |
● | Conducting ESG materiality assessments | |
● | Conducing ESG data gap analyses | |
● | Developing custom ESG reporting frameworks | |
● | Conducting tailored carbon footprints | |
● | Drafting and designing sustainability reports | |
● | Conducting workshops and training sessions on a range of ESG topics and processes |
Sales and Marketing
diginexADVISORY services are typically tied to an extension of a software license to either diginexESG or diginexLUMEN.
To date, there has been relatively little marketing of diginexADVISORY as a standalone service and sales tend to be organic from existing clients or as part of the onboarding for a new diginexESG or diginexLUMEN client. Given market demand that we have observed, we do expect this to change in 2024 and beyond, with more proactive measures to market diginexADVISORY to a broader base of clients.
Clients
diginexADVISORY stretches across both diginexESG and diginexLUMEN clients and is offered to companies of all sizes and expertize levels to help them with their sustainability reporting or supply chain disclosures. Contracts are predominantly for a fixed scope and time period and are typically associated alongside a software license sale with additional fees charged.
Competition and Pricing
Whilst there are many players in this market ranging from large global consultancies (i.e. EY, PwC) to specialist and/or low-cost boutique advisory companies, our observation is that there is still a material market supply / demand in balance given a) the ever-increasing number of companies who are newly subjected to regulated or industry disclosure requirements (for example, CRSD) and b) the number of professionals with the required skill sets to meet this growing demand.
Barriers to entry for potential competition to our advisory business are largely dependent on the availability of specialist knowledge.
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diginexPARTNERS
diginexPARTNERS also known as Customization is a service whereby DSL develops white label versions of both diginexESG and diginexLUMEN for companies who want to run the product as an extension of their own service offering. This service often requires custom technology work up front which generates one-off lump sum revenue as well as ongoing service and maintenance licenses which generates recurring revenue.
In addition, DSL develops custom software platforms as part of project consortiums for organizations like the United States Department of State, United States Department of Labor, and the United Nations.
Sales and marketing
DSL provides both off-the-shelf white label products with standard customizable features as well as completely bespoke tech builds. We will be focusing on expanding our white label client base, in addition to our original business to business (B2B) software clients, across both diginexESG and diginexLUMEN as the underlying technology infrastructure has already been built and is ready to deploy.
Given the nature of the product, White Label sales require targeted outreach to specific client types (i.e. professional services firms, ratings agencies, banks, insurance companies) who will leverage the product to engage with their own customer base.
Clients
diginexPARTNERS includes the technology customization work that we typically do for some of our larger clients. This can include white labels of either our diginexESG or diginexLUMEN software platforms or entirely bespoke multi-year technology projects for large government agencies (such as the United States Department of Labor) or inter-governmental agencies (such as the United Nations).
Competition and Pricing
There are a large number of custom development solutions in the marketplace covering a full price range and sophistication level. DSL is able to combine both significant technical expertise with deep subject matter experts, which sets us apart from the majority of the market. For this reason, DSL has been chosen as a specialist technology partner for a number of government and inter-governmental sponsored projects looking at both modern slavery and child labor issues across Asia and the Middle East. DSL’s research and development into technology-enabled solutions helps to create a competitive advantage to our offering. The pricing of customization is based on the scope of the project.
Consulting Agreements
On July 8, 2024, DSL entered into an Updated Engagement Letter (the “Chardan EL”) with Chardan Capital Markets, LLC (“Chardan”) replacing its prior engagement letter with Chardan, dated January 24, 2024, pursuant to which Chardan was to act as DSL’s lead underwriter. Pursuant to the Chardan EL, Chardan will not be DSL’s underwriter but will be a financial advisor to DSL in connection with the Offering. At the closing of the Offering or an alternative transaction, as defined in the Chardan EL, DSL will owe Chardan cash compensation in the amount of $350,000. The Chardan EL, also provides Chardan with a right of first refusal, for a period of twelve (12) months from the closing of the Offering, to act as co-lead underwriter, joint book-running manager, and/or placement agent for each and every future public and private equity and public debt offering, including all equity linked financings (each being referred to as a subject transaction), during such twelve (12) month period with not less than 50% of the economics paid to the full underwriting or placement agent group for any two-handed subject transaction. In the event there are three or more underwriters or placement agents in a subject transaction, Chardan shall be entitled to receive as its compensation no less than thirty percent (30%) of the compensation payable to the full underwriting or placement agent group for that subject transaction.
On May 1, 2024, DSL entered into a IPO Co-Ordinator Engagement Agreement with MCM Asia Limited (“MCM EL”). As compensation for the service provided, DSL shall pay MCM Asia Limited a total of $510,000, of which $260,000 was paid in May 2024.
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Organizational Structure
Diginex Limited was incorporated as an exempted company with limited liability under the laws of the Cayman Islands on January 26, 2024. Upon incorporation, 1 ordinary share of Diginex Limited was issued to Rhino Ventures Limited.
Diginex Limited is a Cayman Islands exempted company, incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands on January 26, 2024. Upon incorporation, one (1) ordinary share of Diginex Limited was issued to Rhino Ventures Limited. On July 15, 2024, Diginex Limited and Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited (“DSL”) completed a restructuring pursuant to a share exchange agreement (the “Share Exchange Agreement”), whereby the then existing shareholders of DSL (the “Original Shareholders”) transferred all of their shares in DSL to Diginex Limited, in consideration for Diginex Limited’s issuance of substantially the same securities to such shareholders in exchange for the securities of DSL held by Original Shareholders (the “Exchange”). Prior to the Exchange there were 16,756 ordinary shares of DSL issued and outstanding, 3,151 preferred shares of DSL issued and outstanding and 10,172 warrants of DSL issued and outstanding. In the Exchange, each of the securities of DSL were exchanged for substantially the same securities of Diginex Limited at an exchange ratio of one (1) ordinary share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited , one (1) preferred share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Preferred Shares of Diginex Limited and one (1) warrant of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) warrants of Diginex Limited.
Prior to the Exchange on May 28, 2023, DSL agreed to an $8,000,000 share subscription agreement with Rhino Ventures Limited and on September 28, 2023 executed a subscription agreement (the “RVL Subscription Agreement”). Pursuant to the RVL Subscription Agreement, DSL issued Rhino Ventures Limited 5,086 ordinary shares and 10,172 warrants in exchange for $8.0 million. The warrants will be exercisable for ordinary shares of DSL for a period of three years from the date they are issued and shall be exercisable at a per warrant price of US$2,512. Post the completion of the Restructuring and Share Subdivision (as defined below), the number of warrants of Diginex Limited issued to Rhino Ventures Limited was adjusted to 4,170,520 from 10,172 with an adjusted price per warrant of US$6.13. The warrants, if fully exercised, will result in the issuance of such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 51% of the total issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of the warrants being exercised. This will be prorated for partial exercise of warrants. Rhino Ventures Limited paid the subscription price by the payment of $6.1 million in cash and the forgiveness of $1.9 million of debt due to Rhino Ventures Limited. The RVL Subscription Agreement also activated an anti-dilution clause in the Articles of Association of DSL which resulted in HBM IV, Inc. being issued 151 preferred shares of DSL for zero consideration. This increased HBM IV, Inc.’s holding to 3,151 preferred shares of DSL.
In connection with the Exchange, Diginex Limited and security holders of DSL consummated the following transactions (the “Ancillary Transactions”): (i) Diginex Limited issued $4.35 million new convertible loan notes to certain Original Shareholders in consideration for the cancellation of the then existing convertible loan notes issued by DSL and held by such Original Shareholders; (ii) Diginex Limited granted certain share options under the new share option plan that was adopted by Diginex Limited to the holders of the unexercised share options granted by DSL (the “Original Share Options”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Share Options held by such holders. At time of the Exchange there were 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting and (iii) Diginex Limited granted certain warrants to purchase Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited to the holders of the then existing warrants to purchase ordinary shares of DSL (the “Original Warrants”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Warrants held by such holders. The convertible loan notes will automatically convert into Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited upon the effectiveness of this registration statement and whilst there is no automatic vesting of any unvested share options upon completion of this Offering the board of directors, at their discretion, do have the ability to accelerate vesting at any point. At the time of this registration statement there was no confirmation if the board of directors will accelerate vesting. The fair value of all unvested ESOP as of the date of this registration statement is $1.8 million of which $0.2 million was recognized in the combined financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2024.
Accordingly, upon consummation of the Exchange and the Ancillary Transactions (collectively the “Restructuring”), DSL became a wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited, and the prior shareholders of DSL became shareholders of Diginex Limited. The remaining DSL security holders became security holders of Diginex Limited, in that they held Diginex Limited convertible loan notes, share options and warrants. Following, the closing of the Restructuring there is 6,869,961 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited issued and outstanding, 1,291,910 preferred shares of Diginex Limited issued and outstanding, 4,179,520 warrants issued and outstanding, $4.35 million new convertible loan notes issued and outstanding and 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting.
Following the Restructuring, on July 26, 2024, the Company completed a share subdivision (the “Share Subdivision”) such that, the authorized share capital of the Company was revised to be US$50,000 divided into 960,000,000 Ordinary Shares of US$0.00005 par value each and 40,000,000 preferred shares (the “Preferred Shares”), par value US$0.00005 per share. Prior to the Share Subdivision there were 6,869,961 ordinary shares and 1,291,910 preferred shares issued and outstanding, and after the Share Subdivision there are 13,739,922 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding.
During the Restructuring, a $1 million loan due from DSL to a related company, Diginex Holdings Limited, a company controlled by Rhino Ventures Limited, was converted into a $1 million convertible loan note of which Rhino Ventures Limited holds $517,535 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note and Working Capital Innovation Fund II L.P. holds $482,465 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note. The loan between DSL and Diginex Holdings Limited charged interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. The terms of the new convertible loan notes also charge interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. This $1 million convertible loan note forms part of the $4.35 million loan notes issued by Diginex Limited post the Restructuring.
On August 6, 2024 certain Employee Share Option Plan (“ESOP”) holders exercised their options and converted their options into Ordinary Shares. 501,840 employee share options were converted into 1,003,680 Ordinary Shares whilst 109,470 employee share options lapsed without being exercised. In addition, 368,826 employee share options were issued on July 31, 2024 and on August 21, 2024 employee share options were issued to 0.5% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting. The remaining employee share options as at the time of this registration statement are 41,945 vested but not exercised, 368,826 unvested employee share options and unvested employee share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.7% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting. Prior to the exercise of 501,840 options on August 6, 2024 there were 13,739,922 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding, and after such exercise of 501,840 options there are 14,743,602 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding.
Since 17th November 2023, Rhino Ventures Limited (“RVL”) issued convertible notes (the “Rhino Notes”) to various investors (each a “Rhino Investor” and collectively the “Rhino Investors”). In exchange for a loan from a Rhino Investor, RVL issued the Rhino Investor a Rhino Note. The Rhino Notes are convertible into DSL ordinary shares, or successor securities, that were owned by RVL at a conversion price of between USD2.78 to USD2.99. The Rhino Notes were convertible into RVL’s shares of DSL ordinary shares, or successor securities, (1) at the option of the Rhino Investor or (2) automatically upon F-1 either being effective or having received 2 or below comments. On August 7, 2024, six of the Rhino Investors elected to convert their Rhino Notes and RVL transferred an aggregate amount of 2,992,180 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited, the successor securities to the DSL ordinary shares, to the six Rhino Investors as follows: (i) Samantha Dolan received 327,189 Ordinary Shares, (ii) Christopher Lord received 418,200 Ordinary Shares, (iii) Dorota Menard received 400,980 Ordinary Shares, (iv) Gildo Plate received 294,380 Ordinary Shares and (v) Natalia Pelham received 1,049,600 Ordinary Shares and (vi) Benjamin Salter received 501,840 Ordinary Shares. Currently, there are eight Rhino Investors that hold Rhino Notes which are collectively convertible into an aggregate amount of 1,775,300 Ordinary Shares. RVL may issue additional Rhino Notes prior to the completion of this Offering. Other than Natalia Pelham, who is our Chairman’s wife, the Rhino Investors are not related to Mr. Pelham nor are they affiliates to the Company. As of the date of this registration statement RVL holds 9,333,242 Ordinary Shares, which does not include the reduction for RVL’s Ordinary Shares that will be issued upon the conversion of the outstanding Rhino Notes.
DSL, Diginex Limited’s wholly owned subsidiary, currently owes RVL $2.4 million under a loan agreement, dated September 29, 2024 (“RVL Loan”), and RVL will continue to fund Diginex Limited, via DSL through the completion of this Offering. Diginex Limited and RVL have agreed that RVL shall convert up to $3 million of the RVL Loan into Ordinary Shares upon the pricing of this Offering at the IPO offering price. Based on the assumed offering price of $5.00 per share, upon the pricing of the Offering, RVL’s loan, assuming loan balance of $3 million, the RVL Loan will convert into 600,000 Ordinary Shares. In exchange for RVL’s conversion of the RVL Loan into Ordinary Shares, Diginex Limited has agreed to provide RVL registration rights with respect to the Ordinary Shares that RVL receives upon conversion of the RVL Loan. The conversion of the RVL Loan is in addition to the conversion of the RVL convertible loan note with a principal balance of $517,535. The RVL Loan is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.9.
Following the consummation of Restructuring, DSL became a wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited, and the former shareholders and securityholders of DSL became shareholders and securityholders of Diginex Limited. Following the Restructuring, Diginex Limited has subsidiaries located in Hong Kong, United Kingdom and United States of America. Diginex Limited is the sole owner of DSL, and through DSL the sole owner of (i) Diginex Services Limited, a corporation formed in the United Kingdom and (ii) Diginex USA LLC, a limited liability company formed in the State of Delaware.
Prior to the incorporation of Diginex Limited in January 2024, the parent company was Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited, a company incorporated in Hong Kong.
Significant Subsidiaries9
Below is a list of Diginex Limited’s significant subsidiaries as of July 31, 2024:
Name | Country of Incorporation | % of Equity Interest | ||
Diginex Solutions (HK) limited |
Hong Kong |
100% | ||
Diginex Services Limited | United Kingdom | 100% | ||
Diginex USA LLC | United States of America | 100% |
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Property, Plants, and Equipment
The following is a list of Diginex Limited’s principal facilities as of July 31, 2024:
Location | Square Footage | Main Use | Own/Lease | ||||||
Smart-Space Fintech 2, Room 3, Unit 401-404, Core C, Cyberport, Telegraph Bay, Hong Kong Hong Kong | * | Main center of employment for DSL and principal executive office | Lease. Co-working shared space facility | ||||||
Avenue des Papalins a Monaco portant le numero D2/D3 | 1,507 | Executive office | Lease |
* office space is measured by number of seats rather than square footage. The Hong Kong office is in a co-working shared space facility with 9 seats and the Hong Kong based employees operate under a hybrid model as they work both from the office and from home with the majority of working hours spent working from home.
While the office facilities are adequate for the time being, there will be a need to secure additional office space as the business grows.
Employees
As of June 2024, DSL has a current headcount of 30, among which 21 are employees in Hong Kong and United Kingdom and 9 are contractors based in France, Germany, Spain, USA, Canada, Dubai, Mexico and Australia.
Directors and Senior Management of Diginex Limited
As of July 15, 2024, the directors, nominee directors and officers of Diginex Limited are as follows with the Non – Executive directors to be appointed upon the effectiveness date of this registration statement:
Name | Age | Position | ||
Miles Pelham | 46 | Chairman and Director | ||
Mark Blick | 47 | Chief Executive Officer and Director | ||
Tomicah Tillemann-Dick | 45 | Non – Executive Director nominee | ||
Carnel Geddes | 46 | Non – Executive Director nominee | ||
Katerina Klezlova |
37 | Non – Executive Director nominee | ||
Paul Ewing | 51 |
Chief Financial Officer | ||
Christian Thierfelder |
46 |
Chief Operating Officer | ||
Graham Bridges | 41 |
Chief Technology Officer | ||
Jessica Camus-Demarche |
40 |
Chief Corporate Affairs Officer |
Directors and Senior Management of DSL
As of July 31, 2024, the directors and officers of DSL are as follows:
Name | Age | Position | ||
Miles Pelham | 46 |
Chairman | ||
Mark Blick | 47 | Chief Executive Officer and Director | ||
Shea Wallon | 52 | Director | ||
Tomicah Tillemann-Dick | 45 | Director | ||
Paul Ewing | 51 | Chief Financial Officer | ||
Christian Thierfelder | 46 | Chief Operating Officer | ||
Graham Bridges | 41 | Chief Technology Officer | ||
Jessica Camus-Demarche | 40 | Chief Corporate Affairs Officer |
Miles Pelham is the founding Chairman of Diginex Limited and DSL and is the Chairman and a director of Diginex Limited and is expected to hold his position with Diginex Limited following the close of this Offering. Prior to founding Diginex Limited Miles was a 21-year finance veteran, during which time he managed substantial investments and businesses for leading global banks. Since leaving investment banking Miles founded Eqonex Ltd, a financial services company dedicated to digital asset infrastructure, and became the chairman of a sustainable forestry, reforestation and carbon offset company, Woodbois Limited. Woodbois Limited is a client of DSL. Mr. Pelham also sat on the board of an educational company, Kidsloop Limited. Mr. Pelham is also the sole shareholder of Rhino Ventures Limited, which is an investment holding company and a shareholder of Diginex Limited. Rhino Ventures Limited holds other investments but none that are deemed to have a conflict of interest or completing business with Diginex Limited. Mr. Pelham was also the sole shareholder of Pelham Limited, which was an investment holding company. Pelham Limited was wound up on 9 June 2023.
Mark Blick has served as CEO and an executive director of DSL since June 2020 and is the CEO and a director of Diginex Limited, and is expected to be the Chief Executive Officer and director of Diginex Limited following the close of this Offering. From October 2018 to May 2020 Mr. Blick served as Head of Distribution & Engagement (Solutions) of Diginex Limited (Diginex HK) Previously, Mr. Blick was Managing Director, Head of Client Services APAC for Gerson Lehrman Group (“GLG”), an online digital platform for insights. Over his tenure at GLG, he helped build, scale and lead the Asia franchise. Prior to GLG, Mark launched a joint-venture start up with a leading industrial technology company (Crystal Engineering based in California, USA), and spent 7 years in Beijing working in the oil & gas industry.
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Shea Wallon is a non- executive director of DSL. Mr. Wallon is expected to be a non-executive director of Diginex Limited following the completion of the Restructuring, but he will no longer be a non-executive director after the close of the IPO. He is currently Managing Director at Fitch Group, has over 25 years of financial services expertise. He currently leads the Fitch Ventures team, which makes investments in innovative and emerging technology companies in the financial services industry while bringing new learnings to Fitch Group and its parent company, Hearst Communications, Inc. Shea is the nominated director for HBM IV, Inc.
Carnel Geddes is expected to be appointed as a non-executive director of Diginex Limited upon the effectiveness date of this registration statement. From June 2017 to August 2024, Carnel was the CFO of Woodbois Ltd, a UK AIM listed entity in the forestry sector. She is based in South Africa and is a Chartered Accountant having dually qualified in the UK and South Africa and is a Certified Fraud Examiner. During a 15-year career at BDO, the global audit, tax and advisory group (2000 – 2015), she served as Director in forensic services of BDO London specializing in the financial services sector and was a Partner of BDO Cape Town. She has been a Board Member of POMASA (South Africa’s Pomegranate Growers Association) (2015 to current) which she also Chaired (elected) for several years (2019 – 2022).
Katerina Klezlova is expected to be appointed as a non-executive director upon the effectiveness date of this registration statement. Ms. Klezlova is a serial entrepreneur, venture builder and business development expert focused on building scalable, efficient and investment-ready tech companies, globally. After multiple years in business development and consulting focused on the corporate sector, she founded Fortuny Consulting in May 2017, developing own business models for scalable growth focusing on the SME sector. In September 2019 she co-founded a financial technology venture DealStation, a software aimed at digitizing the fundraising process for private companies. Currently Ms. Klezlova is active in the fields of innovation, sustainability and impact – supporting numerous ventures with their expansion strategies and investment-readiness. Additionally, since June 2021 she sits on the board of Capacity, a Zurich-based accelerator for refugee and migrant entrepreneurship and integration, while also serving as a judge, mentor, advisor, expert and judge for various investment funds, angel clubs and accelerators across Europe such as the Kickstart Innovation, Masschallenge, WeBloom, Business Angels Connect or R3I. Ms. Klezlova holds an MBA degree from the IE University in Madrid, Spain and a Corporate Finance certificate from the CISI in London, UK.
Tomicah Tillemann-Dick is a non-executive director of DSL and is expected to be a non-executive director of Diginex Limited upon effectiveness date of this registration statement. He was Global Head of Policy and a Partner at Andreessen Horowitz and is the current President of Project Liberty, a far-reaching effort to develop socially responsible architecture for the next generation of the internet. Previously, he served in government as a senior advisor to two US Secretaries of State and as former executive director of the Digital Impact and Governance Initiative at New America, where he worked in collaboration with the Rockefeller Foundation, the World Bank, MIT and governments around the world to develop open source digital infrastructure platforms to power the public sector. He also oversaw the work of the Blockchain Trust Accelerator, which works with organizations to deploy decentralized technology solutions that address governance and social impact challenges worldwide and the Responsible Asset Allocator Initiative, which ranked sovereign wealth and pension funds of $20+ trillion based on strategies for managing ESG risks.
Paul Ewing has served as the Chief Financial Officer of DSL since May 2023 and as the Chief Financial Officer of Diginex Limited. Mr. Ewing has spent more than a decade working in Asia and was the regional Chief Financial Officer at ICAP Electronic Broking (“ICAP”) from November 2006 to November 2010, as well as Chief Operating Officer for ICAP’s electronic broking division from November 2010 to December 2013. From December 2013 to August 2017, Mr. Ewing was Chief Financial Officer of APAC Broking for ICAP plc. From September 2017 to July 2018, Mr. Ewing served as the Chief Financial Officer for RKR Capital, a proprietary trading business with a focus on financial markets and Digital Assets. Mr. Ewing also served as Chief Financial Officer of Nasdaq listed, Eqonex Limited from August 2018 to May 2022. From May 2022 to November 2022 Mr. Ewing served as Chief Operating Officer of Eqonex Limited. Mr. Ewing holds a degree from Manchester University and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales.
Christian Thierfelder has served as the Chief Operating Officer of DSL since June 2020 and is expected to be the Chief Operating Officer following the close of this Offering. From October 2018 to May 2020 Mr. Thierfelder served as Chief Research Officer of Diginex Limited (Diginex HK). Before that he worked as a Director at the Convertible Bonds Desk at Mizuho Securities Hong Kong from December 2014 to September 2018 and as a Senior Consultant at d-fine from January 2011 to December 2014. From February 2008 to December 2010 Mr. Thierfelder was a junior research group leader at University of Paderborn. Mr. Thierfelder holds a MSc in Mathematical Finance from Oxford University and MSc in Physics from Friedrich Schiller University of Jena and a PhD in Theoretical Physics from Massey University Auckland.
Graham Bridges has served as the Chief Technology Officer of DSL since June 2020 and is responsible for the Technology/Research and Development functions of the business and is expected to be the Chief Technology Officer of Diginex Limited following the close of this Offering. Prior to this, he held the position of Senior Director & Head of Corporate Solutions at Diginex Limited (DiginexHK) from May 2018. Mr. Bridges has spent 8 years working in Asia in technology leadership roles, and prior to DiginexHK, was Managing Director at Startech Limited (formerly the dedicated and sole technology partner of MoneyHero Ltd – NASDAQ:MNY) from June 2016 until May 2018. Prior to this Mr. Bridges held a number of technology research and development positions with Experian PLC (LON:EXPN) between 2006 and 2015, based out of London, UK. Mr. Bridges holds a degree in Business and Information Communications Technology from Nottingham Trent University.
Jessica Camus- Demarche has served as Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer of DSL since June 2020 and is expected to be the Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer for Diginex Limited following the close of this Offering. Mrs. Camus has spent over a decade working in the sustainability ecosystem, leading advisory services and public-private partnerships. Previously, she managed her own consultancy firm Ignis Consulting from 2016-2018, advising the World Bank, German Development Cooperation (GIZ), WBCSD, and small and mid-cap enterprises in emerging markets on sustainability strategy and scaling impact. Jessica served as an Associate Director at the World Economic Forum in NYC and Geneva from 2008 – 2015. She was a Global Leadership Fellow of the World Economic Forum from 2012-15 and served as a Financial Market Executive from 2004 - 2005 at Thomson Reuters. She also acted as a Non-Executive Director of an LSE AIM-listed company, Obtala Limited from 2016 – 2018. Jessica holds an Executive Master’s in Leadership from Wharton, Columbia, LBS and INSEAD, an Executive Master in Business Administration from IE Business School in Madrid and an Master’s Degree in Development from the Graduate Institute of International Relations in Geneva.
Compensation
Executive Officer and Director Compensation
For the year ended March 31, 2024, Diginex Limited paid its executive officers (as per those included in the director and senior management table of DSL on page 68) for services in all capacities an aggregate compensation of approximately $1.5 million. The compensation was paid in cash. The executive officers did not receive performance bonuses for the year ended March 31, 2024. At the date of filing this registration statement, the executive officers had exercised employee shares options and received 949,560 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited and hold 303,400 unvested share option plus additional unvested share options that equate to 1.7% of the outstanding share capital of the Company that will vest 36 months after commencement of employment or upon completion of this Offering. The share options convert into shares of the Company on a one-to-one basis. The share options have an exercise price of US$0.00005.
The executive members of DSL board of directors did not receive any compensation in the year ended March 31, 2024 in their capacity as directors, and going forward, Diginex Limited does not expect to have a compensation plan for executive directors. During the year ended March 2024 the non-executive directors to DSL did not receive compensation.
DSL does and Diginex Limited will contribute to mandatory government pension schemes. Pension contributions for the year ended March 31, 2024 are included in the aggregate compensation noted above.
There are no plans to change the compensation of executive directors and officers once Diginex Limited goes public. It is expected that non-executive directors will be compensated by Diginex Limited.
Diginex Limited Employee Share Option Plan (the “Incentive Plan”)
Purpose; Types of Awards.
The purpose of the Incentive Plan is (i) to encourage profitability and growth through short-term and long-term incentives that are consistent with Diginex Limited’s objectives; (ii) to give participants an incentive for individual performance; (iii) to promote teamwork among participants; and (iv) to give Diginex Limited an advantage in attracting and retaining key employees, directors, and consultants. To accomplish this purpose, the Incentive Plan permits the granting of awards in the form of options, share appreciation rights (“SARs”), restricted shares, restricted share units, performance based awards (including performance shares, performance units and performance bonus awards), and other share-based or cash-based awards.
Shares Subject to the Incentive Plan.
The aggregate number of shares that are available for issuance pursuant to awards granted under the Incentive Plan is equal to 5,400,000 Ordinary Shares. The maximum number of shares subject to Incentive Plan awards granted during any fiscal year to any non-employee director, when taken together with any cash fees paid to the director during the year in respect of his or her service as a director, may not exceed $200,000 in total value. If an award granted under the Incentive Plan is forfeited, canceled, settled, or otherwise terminated without a distribution of shares, the shares underlying that award will again become available for issuance under the Incentive Plan. However, none of the following shares will be available for issuance under the Incentive Plan: (i) shares delivered to or withheld to pay withholding taxes, (ii) shares used to pay the exercise price of an option, or (iii) shares subject to any exercised share-settled SARs. Any substitute awards shall not reduce the shares authorized for grant under the Incentive Plan.
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Administration of the Incentive Plan.
The Incentive Plan will be administered by the plan administrator, who is the Diginex Limited board of directors or a committee that it designates. The plan administrator has the power to determine the terms of the awards granted under the Incentive Plan, including the exercise price, the number of shares subject to each award, and the exercisability of the awards. The plan administrator also has the power to determine the persons to whom and the time or times at which awards will be made and to make all other determinations and take all other actions advisable for the administration of the Incentive Plan.
Participation.
Participation in the Incentive Plan will be open to employees, contractors and consultants, who have been selected as an eligible recipient under the Incentive Plan by the plan administrator.
Types of Awards.
The types of awards that may be made under the Incentive Plan are described below. All of the awards described below are subject to the conditions, limitations, restrictions, vesting and forfeiture provisions determined by the plan administrator, subject to certain limitations provided in the Incentive Plan.
Performance-Based Awards.
Diginex Limited may grant an award conditioned on satisfaction of certain performance criteria. Such performance-based awards include performance-based restricted shares and restricted share units.
Performance Goals.
If the plan administrator determines that the performance-based award to an employee is subject to performance goals, then the performance-based criteria upon which the awards will be based shall be by reference to any one or more of the following: earnings before interest and taxes; earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization; net operating profit after tax; cash flow; revenue; net revenues; sales; days sales outstanding; scrap rates; income; net income; operating income; net operating income, operating margin; earnings; earnings per share; return on equity; return on investment; return on capital; return on assets; return on net assets; total shareholder return; economic profit; market share; appreciation in the fair market value, book value or other measure of value of Ordinary Shares; expense/cost control; working capital; volume/production; new products; customer satisfaction; brand development; employee retention or employee turnover; employee satisfaction or engagement; environmental, health, or other safety goals; individual performance; strategic objective milestones; days inventory outstanding; or any other performance goals or a combination of performance goals selected by the plan administrator. Performance goals may be measured either in absolute terms or as compared to any incremental increase or decrease or as compared to results of a peer group or to market performance indicators.
Restricted Shares.
A restricted share award is an award of Ordinary Shares that vests in accordance with the terms and conditions established by the plan administrator. The plan administrator will determine in the award agreement whether the participant will be entitled to vote the restricted shares and/or receive dividends on such shares.
Restricted Share Units.
A restricted share unit is a right to receive shares or the cash equivalent of Ordinary Shares at a specified date in the future, subject to forfeiture of such right.
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Share Options.
A share option entitles the recipient to purchase Ordinary Shares at a fixed exercise price. The exercise price per share will be determined by the plan administrator in the applicable award agreement in its sole discretion at the time of the grant. The maximum term of each option shall be fixed by the plan administrator, but in no event shall an option be exercisable more than (i) ten (10) years after the date such option is granted to an employee of Diginex Limited or its affiliates on the date of grant, or (ii) five (5) years after the date such option is granted to a person who is not an employee of Diginex Limited or its affiliates on the date of grant.
Share Appreciation Rights (SAR).
A SAR entitles the holder to receive an amount equal to the difference between the fair market value of an ordinary share on the exercise date and the exercise price of the SAR (which may not be less than 100% of the fair market value of an ordinary share on the grant date), multiplied by the number of shares subject to the SAR (as determined by the plan administrator).
Other Share-Based Awards.
Diginex Limited may grant or sell to any participant unrestricted Ordinary Shares under the Incentive Plan or a dividend equivalent. A dividend equivalent is a right to receive payments, based on dividends with respect to Ordinary Shares.
Other Cash-Based Awards.
Diginex Limited may grant cash awards under the Incentive Plan, including cash awards as a bonus or upon the attainment of certain performance goals.
Equitable Adjustments.
In the event of a merger, consolidation, reclassification, recapitalization, spin-off, spin-out, repurchase or other reorganization or corporate transaction or event, extraordinary dividend, stock/share split or reverse share split, combination or exchange of shares, or other change in corporate structure or payment of any other distribution, the maximum number and kind of shares reserved for issuance or with respect to which awards may be granted under the Incentive Plan will be adjusted to reflect such event, and the plan administrator will make such adjustments as it deems appropriate and equitable in the number, kind and exercise price of Ordinary Shares covered by outstanding awards made under the Incentive Plan, and in any other matters that relate to awards and that are affected by the changes in the shares referred to in this section.
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Amendment and Termination.
The plan administrator may alter, amend, modify, or terminate the Incentive Plan at any time. In addition, no modification of an award will, without the prior written consent of the participant, adversely alter or impair any rights or obligations under any award already granted under the Incentive Plan.
Board Practices
Board Composition
Diginex Limited’s business affairs are managed under the direction of its board of directors. Diginex Limited’s board of directors consists of five members. Our external directors serve for a three-year term which begins upon the effectiveness date of this registration statement.
Director Independence
Diginex Limited’s board of directors consists of five members, three of whom qualify as independent within the meaning of the independent director guidelines of Nasdaq. Tomicah Tillemann-Dick, Carnel Geddes and Katerina Klezlova are “independent directors” as defined in the rules of Nasdaq and applicable SEC rules.
Committees of the Board of Directors
Diginex Limited’s board of directors has established an audit & risk committee and a nomination & compensation committee. Carnel Geddes will serve as the chair of both committees. Members will serve on these committees until their resignation or until otherwise determined by Diginex Limited’s board of directors.
Audit & Risk Committee
The Company’s audit & risk committee oversees Diginex Limited’s corporate accounting and financial reporting process. Among other matters, the audit & risk committee:
● | appoints Diginex Limited’s independent registered public accounting firm; |
● | evaluates the independent registered public accounting firm’s qualifications, independence and performance; |
● | determines the engagement of the independent registered public accounting firm; |
● | reviews and approves the scope of the annual audit and the audit fee; |
● | discusses with management and the independent registered public accounting firm the results of the annual audit and the review of the Diginex Limited’s interim financial statements; |
● | approves the retention of the independent registered public accounting firm to perform any proposed permissible non-audit services; |
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● | monitors the rotation of partners of the independent registered public accounting firm on Diginex Limited’s engagement team in accordance with requirements established by the SEC; |
● | is responsible for reviewing Diginex Limited’s financial statements and the Company’s management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations to be included in the Company’s annual and interim reports to be filed with the SEC; |
● | reviews the Company’s critical accounting policies and estimates; |
● | oversees the development and maintenance of the risk management framework, including the risk management policies, risk appetite and risk strategy; |
● | ensures adequate processes and systems for identifying, reporting and mitigating all relevant risk exposures, including legal, commercial, financial and operational risks; and |
● | reviews key risk reports and risk registers and provides oversight of the key risks Diginex is exposed to. |
The chair of the audit & risk committee is Carnel Geddes. Tomicah Tillemann-Dick and Katerina Klezlova are also members of the audit & risk committee. Diginex Limited believes that Carnel Geddes qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert,” as such term is defined in Item 401(h) of Regulation S-K. Diginex Limited’s board of directors has adopted a written charter for the audit & risk committee.
Nomination and Compensation Committee
Diginex Limited’s nomination and compensation committee will review and recommend policies relating to compensation and benefits of Diginex Limited’s officers and employees. Among other matters, the nomination and compensation committee will:
● | assist the board in overseeing Diginex Limited’s employee compensation policies and practices, including approving the compensation of the CEO and other executive officers and reviewing and approving incentive and equity compensation policies and programs; |
● | produce the annual report of the committee required by the rules of the SEC; and |
● | consider and make recommendations relating to the selection and qualification of directors and candidates nominated to serve as directors. |
The chair of the Company’s nomination and compensation committee is Carnel Geddes. Tomicah Tillemann-Dick and Katerina Klezlova are also members of the compensation committee. Diginex Limited’s board of directors has adopted a written charter for the nomination and compensation committee.
Foreign Private Issuer Status
As a foreign private issuer, Diginex Limited is exempt from the rules under the Exchange Act, prescribing the furnishing and content of proxy statements, and its officers, directors and principal shareholders are exempt from the reporting and short-swing profit recovery provisions contained in Section 16 of the Exchange Act. In addition, Diginex Limited is not required under the Exchange Act to file quarterly periodic reports and financial statements with the SEC as frequently or as promptly as U.S. domestic issuers, and is not required to disclose in its periodic reports all of the information that U.S. domestic issuers are required to disclose. As a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands that is listed on Nasdaq, Diginex Limited is subject to Nasdaq corporate’s governance listing standards. However, under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5615(a)(3)(A), a foreign private issuer may, in general, follow its home country corporate governance practices in lieu of some of the Nasdaq corporate governance requirements, set forth in the Nasdaq Marketplace Rule 5600 Series (with certain exceptions not relevant here). Diginex Limited has elected to be exempt from the requirement in Nasdaq Marketplace Rule 5635(d) which sets forth the circumstances under which shareholder approval is required prior to an issuance of securities, other than in a public offering, equal to 20% or more of the voting power outstanding at a price less than the lower of: (i) the Nasdaq Official Closing Price (as reflected on Nasdaq.com) immediately preceding the signing of the binding agreement; or (ii) the average Nasdaq Official Closing Price of the common stock (as reflected on Nasdaq.com) for the five trading days immediately preceding the signing of the binding agreement.
Prior to the IPO, Rhino Ventures Limited owned a majority of the issued and outstanding equity securities of the Diginex Limited. Upon the completion of this Offering, the Company will have 23,192,950 Ordinary Shares issued and outstanding. Each Ordinary Share is entitled to one (1) vote and Rhino Ventures Limited will beneficially own 10,300,844 Ordinary Shares, representing 44.4% of the total voting power of the Company’s issued and outstanding share capital immediately following the completing of this Offering. As such, the Company will not be a “controlled company” as defined under the Nasdaq Stock Market Rules.
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The following summary of the material terms of our securities is not intended to be a complete summary of the rights and preferences of such securities. Reference is made to our Memorandum and Articles, copies of which are filed as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part (and which is referred to in this section as, respectively, the “memorandum” and the “articles”). We urge you to read our Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles in its entirety for a complete description of the rights and preferences of our securities.
Diginex Limited
Diginex Limited was incorporated as an exempted company with limited liability under the Companies Act on January 26, 2024. A Cayman Islands exempted company:
● | is a company that conducts its business mainly outside the Cayman Islands; | |
● | is prohibited from trading in the Cayman Islands with any person, firm or corporation except in furtherance of the business of the exempted company carried on outside the Cayman Islands (and for this purpose can effect and conclude contracts in the Cayman Islands and exercise in the Cayman Islands all of its powers necessary for the carrying on of its business outside the Cayman Islands); | |
● | does not have to hold an annual general meeting; | |
● | does not have to make its register of members open to inspection by shareholders of that company; | |
● | may obtain an undertaking against the imposition of any future taxation; | |
● | may register by way of continuation in another jurisdiction and be deregistered in the Cayman Islands; | |
● | may register as an exempted limited duration company; and | |
● | may register as a segregated portfolio company. |
As of the date of this prospectus, we had (i) 14,743,602 ordinary share issued and outstanding, (ii) 2,583,820 preference shares issued and outstanding, (iii) 4,179,520 outstanding warrants, (iv) US$4.35 million convertible loan notes and (v) 41,945 vested but not yet exercised options issued to employees and contractors, 368,826 unvested employee share options and unvested employee share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.7% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting.
Ordinary Shares
Our Ordinary Shares are issued in registered form, and are issued when registered in our register of members. Unless the board of directors determine otherwise, each holder of our Ordinary Shares will not receive a certificate in respect of such Ordinary Shares. Our shareholders who are non-residents of the Cayman Islands may freely hold and vote their Ordinary Shares. We may not issue shares or warrants to bearer.
As of the date of this prospectus, our authorized share capital is US$50,000 divided into (i) 960,000,000 Ordinary Shares of par value $0.00005 each (the “Ordinary Shares”) and (ii) 40,000,000 preferred shares of par value $0.00005 each (the “Preferred Shares”) Subject to the provisions of the Companies Act and our articles regarding redemption and purchase of the shares (and to any direction that may be given by the Company in general meeting) and, where applicable, the rules and regulations of Nasdaq, the Securities and Exchange Commission and/or any other competent regulatory authority or otherwise under applicable law, our directors have general and unconditional authority to allot (with or without confirming rights of renunciation), issue, grant options over or otherwise deal with any unissued shares to such persons, at such times and on such terms and conditions as they may decide. The directors may deal with unissued shares either at a premium or at par, or with or without preferred, deferred or other special rights or restrictions, whether in regard to dividend, voting, return of capital or otherwise. No share may be issued at a discount except in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act. The directors may refuse to accept any application for shares, and may accept any application in whole or in part, for any reason or for no reason.
At the completion of this Offering, there will be 23,192,950 Ordinary Shares issued and outstanding. Shares sold in this Offering will be delivered against payment from the underwriters upon the closing of the Offering in New York, New York, on or about [●].
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Preferred Shares
Each Preferred Share carries a number of votes equal to that of the Ordinary Shares then issuable upon its conversion into Ordinary Shares at the record date for determination of the shareholders entitled to vote on such matters. The holders of Preferred Shares and Ordinary Shares shall vote together as a single class unless it is required by applicable law or the Company’s Article of Association that Preferred Shares to vote separately as a class.
Each issued Preferred Share shall automatically be converted into Ordinary Shares, at the conversion price (i) immediately upon the Company’s registration statement on Form F-1 filed with the SEC being declared effective (the “F-1 Effectiveness”) or (ii) upon the prior written approval of the holders of majority of Preferred Shares (voting together as a single class).
Unless converted earlier pursuant to above said, each holder of Preferred Shares shall have the right, at such holder’s sole discretion, to convert all or any portion of the Preferred Shares into Ordinary Shares at any time.
Each holder of Preferred Shares shall be entitled to receive dividends, out of any funds legally available therefor, prior and in preference to any declaration or payment of any dividend on the Ordinary Shares or any other class or series of shares issued by the Company, at the rate of four percent per annum of the applicable issue price of the Preferred Shares, on a non-cumulative basis, for each Preferred Share held by such holder.
The Preferred Shares are redeemable at the request of the holders of a majority of the Preferred Shares at earlier of (i) F-1 Effectiveness has not taken place on or before the fifth anniversary of the date on which the first Preferred Share was issued; or (ii) a redemption right held by holder of Preferred Shares under the Articles and any shareholders agreement between Diginex Limited and its shareholders which Diginex Limited is bound to observe from time to time (the “Shareholder Agreement”) has been triggered by a materially breach of the Articles and such Shareholder Agreement; or (iii) where the Company materially fails to comply with applicable laws and regulations.
Warrants
The 4,179,520 warrants that are issued and outstanding are exercisable for a period of three years from the date they were issued, May 27, 2024, and are exercisable at a price of US$6.13 per share. The warrants, if fully exercised, will result in the issuance of shares equal to 51% of the Company’s outstanding Ordinary Shares at the time the warrants are exercised. This amount will be prorated in the event of partial exercise of the warrants.
RVL Warrants
Upon a successful IPO, the Company will issue Rhino Ventures Limited the warrants identified below in recognition of the support Rhino Ventures Limited has provided to the Company. The warrants will be structured as detailed below:
1. | 1 warrant issued per each share issued as part of this Offering. Exercisable at a price equivalent to 25% premium to the initial public offering price per share. Warrants can be exercised within 6 months from date of listing | |
2. | 1 warrant issued per each share issued as part of this Offering. Exercisable at a price equivalent to 50% premium to the initial public offering price per share. Warrants can be exercised within 9 months from date of listing | |
3. | 1 warrant issued per each share issued as part of this Offering. Exercisable at a price equivalent to 75% premium to the initial public offering price per share. Warrants can be exercised within 12 months from date of listing | |
4. | 1 warrant issued per each share issued as part of this Offering. Exercisable at a price equivalent to 100% premium to the initial public offering price per share. Warrants can be exercised within 15 months from date of listing | |
5. | 1 warrant issued per each share issued as part of this Offering. Exercisable at a price equivalent to 150% premium to the initial public offering price per share. Warrants can be exercised within 18 months from date of listing | |
6. | 1 warrant issued per each share issued as part of this Offering. Exercisable at a price equivalent to 200% premium to the initial public offering price per share. Warrants can be exercised within 24 months from date of listing |
Convertible loan notes
The $4.35 million in convertible notes shall automatically convert into Ordinary Shares at the conversion price on the earlier of the following events, (i) a relevant fund raising above $10 million, (ii) change of control, or (iii) F-1 being declared effective. Such ordinary class of shares to be issued to investors in connection with the relevant fund raising or issued at the completion of the change of control or this prospectus on Form F-1 being declared effective. The conversion price for the $4.35 million in convertible notes shall be calculated using a valuation of $60 million for the Company.
Diginex Limited’s Transfer Agent
The transfer agent and registrar for the Ordinary Shares is Continental Stock Transfer & Trust, at 1 State Street, 30th Floor, New York, NY 10004-1561.
Diginex Limited’s Dividends
Subject to the provisions of the Companies Act and any rights attaching to any class or classes of shares under and in accordance with the articles:
● | the directors may declare dividends or distributions out of our funds which are lawfully available for that purpose; and | |
● | our shareholders may, by ordinary resolution, declare dividends but no such dividend shall exceed the amount recommended by the directors. |
Subject to the requirements of the Companies Act regarding the application of a company’s share premium account and with the sanction of an ordinary resolution, dividends may also be declared and paid out of any share premium account. The directors when paying dividends to shareholders may make such payment either in cash or in specie.
Unless provided by the rights attached to a share, no dividend shall bear interest.
Diginex Limited’s Voting Rights
Subject to any rights or restrictions as to voting attached to any shares, unless any share carries special voting rights, on a poll, every shareholder who is present in person and every person representing a shareholder by proxy shall have one vote for each share of which he or the person represented by proxy is the holder. A fraction of a share shall entitle its holder to an equivalent fraction of one (1) vote (or a fraction of such number of votes which such Share carries pursuant to its special voting rights). In addition, all shareholders holding shares of a particular class are entitled to vote at a meeting of the holders of that class of shares. Votes may be given either personally or by proxy.
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Variation of Rights of Diginex Limited’s Shares
Whenever our capital is divided into different classes of shares, the rights attaching to any class of share (unless otherwise provided by the terms of issue of the shares of that class) may be varied either with the consent in writing of the holders of not less than two-thirds of the issued shares of that class, or with the sanction of a resolution passed by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the holders of shares of the class present in person or by proxy at a separate general meeting of the holders of shares of that class.
Unless the terms on which a class of shares was issued state otherwise, the rights conferred on the shareholder holding shares of any class shall not be deemed to be varied by the creation or issue of further shares ranking pari passu with the existing shares of that class.
Alteration of Diginex Limited’s Share Capital
Subject to the Companies Act, our shareholders may, by ordinary resolution:
● | increase our share capital by new shares of the amount fixed by that ordinary resolution and with the attached rights, priorities and privileges set out in that ordinary resolution; | |
● | consolidate and divide all or any of our share capital into shares of larger amount than our existing shares; | |
● | convert all or any of our paid-up shares into stock, and reconvert that stock into paid up shares of any denomination; | |
● | sub-divide our shares or any of them into shares of an amount smaller than that fixed, so, however, that in the sub-division, the proportion between the amount paid and the amount, if any, unpaid on each reduced share shall be the same as it was in case of the share from which the reduced share is derived; and | |
● | cancel shares which, at the date of the passing of that ordinary resolution, have not been taken or agreed to be taken by any person and diminish the amount of our share capital by the amount of the shares so cancelled or, in the case of shares without nominal par value, diminish the number of shares into which our capital is divided. |
Subject to the Companies Act and to any rights for the time being conferred on the shareholders holding a particular class of shares, our shareholders may, by special resolution, reduce its share capital in any way.
Calls on Diginex Limited’s Shares and Forfeiture
Subject to the terms of allotment, the directors may make calls on the shareholders in respect of any monies unpaid on their shares including any premium and each shareholder shall (subject to receiving at least 14 clear days’ notice specifying when and where payment is to be made), pay to us the amount called on his shares as required by notice. Shareholders registered as the joint holders of a share shall be jointly and severally liable to pay all calls in respect of the share. If a call remains unpaid after it has become due and payable the person from whom it is due and payable shall pay interest on the amount unpaid from the day it became due and payable until it is paid at the rate fixed by the terms of allotment of the share or in the notice of the call or if no rate is fixed, at the rate of ten percent per annum. The directors may waive payment of the interest wholly or in part.
We have a first and paramount lien on all shares (whether fully paid up or not) registered in the name of a shareholder (whether solely or jointly with others). The lien is for all monies payable to us by the shareholder or the shareholder’s estate:
● | either alone or jointly with any other person, whether or not that other person is a shareholder; and | |
● | whether or not those monies are presently payable. |
At any time the directors may declare any share to be wholly or partly exempt from the lien on shares provisions of the articles.
We may sell, in such manner as the directors may determine, any share on which the sum in respect of which the lien exists is presently payable, if due notice that such sum is payable has been given (as prescribed by the articles) and, within 14 clear days of the date on which the notice is deemed to be given under the articles, such notice has not been complied with.
Diginex Limited’s Unclaimed Dividend
A dividend that remains unclaimed for a period of six years after it became due for payment shall be forfeited to, and shall cease to remain owing by, the company.
Forfeiture or Surrender of Diginex Limited’s Shares
If a shareholder fails to pay any capital call, the directors may give to such shareholder not less than 14 clear days’ notice requiring payment and specifying the amount unpaid including any interest which may have accrued, any expenses which have been incurred by us due to that person’s default and the place where payment is to be made. The notice shall also contain a warning that if the notice is not complied with, the shares in respect of which the call is made will be liable to be forfeited and the place where payment is to be made.
If such notice is not complied with, the directors may, before the payment required by the notice has been received, resolve that any share the subject of that notice be forfeited (which forfeiture shall include all dividends or other monies payable in respect of the forfeited share and not paid before such forfeiture).
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A forfeited share may be sold, re-allotted or otherwise disposed of on such terms and in such manner as the directors determine and at any time before a sale, re-allotment or disposition the forfeiture may be cancelled on such terms as the directors think fit.
A person whose shares have been forfeited shall cease to be a shareholder in respect of the forfeited shares, but shall, notwithstanding such forfeiture, remain liable to pay to us all monies which at the date of forfeiture were payable by him to us in respect of the shares, together with all expenses and interest from the date of forfeiture or surrender until payment.
A declaration, whether statutory or under oath, made by a director or the secretary shall be conclusive evidence that the person making the declaration is our director or secretary and that the particular shares have been forfeited or surrendered on a particular date.
Diginex Limited’s Share Premium Account
The directors shall establish a share premium account in accordance with the Companies Act and shall carry the credit of such account from time to time to a sum equal to the amount or value of the premium paid on the issue of any share or capital contributed or such other amounts required by the Companies Act.
Redemption and Purchase of Own Diginex Limited’s Shares
Subject to the Companies Act and any rights for the time being conferred on the shareholders holding a particular class of shares, we may by action of our directors:
● | issue shares that are to be redeemed or liable to be redeemed, at our option or the shareholder holding those redeemable shares, on the terms and in the manner our directors determine before the issue of those shares; | |
● | with the consent by special resolution of the shareholders holding shares of a particular class, vary the rights attaching to that class of shares so as to provide that those shares are to be redeemed or are liable to be redeemed at our option on the terms and in the manner which the directors determine at the time of such variation; and | |
● | purchase all or any of our own shares of any class including any redeemable shares on the terms and in the manner which the directors determine at the time of such purchase. |
We may make a payment in respect of the redemption or purchase of its own shares in any manner authorized by the Companies Act, including out of any combination of capital, our profits and the proceeds of a fresh issue of shares.
When making a payment in respect of the redemption or purchase of shares, the directors may make the payment in cash or in specie (or partly in one and partly in the other) if so authorized by the terms of the allotment of those shares or by the terms applying to those shares, or otherwise by agreement with the shareholder holding those shares.
Transfer of Diginex Limited’s Shares
Subject to any applicable requirements set forth in the articles and provided that a transfer of shares complies with applicable rules of the Nasdaq Capital Market, and where the shares in question are not listed on or subject to the rules of any designated stock exchange, further subject to any provisions of the Shareholder Agreement and provided that the directors shall approve and register any transfer of Shares made in accordance with the Shareholder Agreement and shall refuse to register any transfer of Shares made otherwise than in accordance with the Shareholder Agreement, a shareholder may transfer shares to another person by completing an instrument of transfer in a usual or common form or in any other form approved by the directors, executed:
● | where the shares are fully paid, by or on behalf of that shareholder; and | |
● | where the shares are nil or partly paid, by or on behalf of that shareholder and the transferee. |
The transferor shall be deemed to remain the holder of a share until the name of the transferee is entered into our register of members.
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Where the shares in question are not listed on or subject to the rules of the Nasdaq Capital Market, our board of directors may, in its absolute discretion, decline to register any transfer of any share that has not been fully paid up or is subject to a company lien. Our board of directors may also decline to register any transfer of such share, without giving any reason, unless:
● | the instrument of transfer is lodged with us, accompanied by the certificate for the shares to which it relates and such other evidence as our board of directors may reasonably require to show the right of the transferor to make the transfer; | |
● | the instrument of transfer is in respect of only one class of shares; | |
● | the instrument of transfer is properly stamped, if required; | |
● | the share transferred is fully paid and free of any lien in favor of us; | |
● | any applicable fee of such maximum sum as the Designated Stock Exchanges may determine to be payable, or such lesser sum as the board of the directors may from time to time require related to the transfer has been paid to us; and | |
● | the transfer is not more than four joint holders. |
If our directors refuse to register a transfer of any shares of any class not listed on a Designated Stock Exchange (as defined in our articles), they are required, within one (1) month after the date on which the instrument of transfer was lodged, to send to each of the transferor and the transferee notice of such refusal.
Inspection of Diginex Limited’s Books and Records
Holders of our shares will have no general right under the Companies Act to inspect or obtain copies of our register of members or our corporate records (except for the memorandum and articles of association of our Company, any special resolutions passed by our Company and the register of mortgages and charges of our Company).
General Meetings of Diginex Limited’s Shareholders
As a Cayman Islands exempted company, we are not obligated by the Companies Act to call shareholders’ annual general meetings; accordingly, we may, but shall not be obliged to, in each year hold a general meeting as an annual general meeting. Further, in accordance Diginex Limited’s determination to follow its home country corporate governance practices in lieu of some of the Nasdaq corporate governance requirements, pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5615(a)(3)(A), we may not hold an annual general meeting for, among other things, the election of directors. As such, we may hold an annual general meeting that does not include the election of directors on a yearly basis. Any annual general meeting held shall be held at such time and place as may be determined by our board of directors in accordance with our Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles. All general meetings other than annual general meetings shall be called extraordinary general meetings.
The directors may convene general meetings whenever they think fit. General meetings shall also be convened on the written requisition of one or more of the shareholders entitled to attend and vote at our general meetings who (together) hold not less than ten percent of the rights to vote at such general meeting in accordance with the notice provisions in the articles, specifying the purpose of the meeting and signed by each of the shareholders making the requisition. If the directors do not convene such meeting within 21 clear days’ from the date of receipt of the written requisition, those shareholders who requested the meeting or any of them may convene the general meeting themselves within three months after the end of such period of 21 clear days in which case reasonable expenses incurred by them as a result of the directors failing to convene a meeting shall be reimbursed by us.
At least five (5) clear days’ notice of any general meeting shall be given to shareholders entitled to attend and vote at such meeting. The notice shall specify the place, the day and the hour of the meeting and the general nature of that business. In addition, if a resolution is proposed as a special resolution, the text of that resolution shall be given to all shareholders. Notice of every general meeting shall also be given to the directors and our auditors.
Subject to the Companies Act and with the consent of the shareholders who, individually or collectively, hold at least 90 percent of the voting rights of all those who have a right to vote at a general meeting, a general meeting may be convened on shorter notice.
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A quorum shall consist of the presence (whether in person or represented by proxy) of one or more shareholders holding shares that represent not less than one-third of the outstanding shares carrying the right to vote at such general meeting unless the Company only one member.
If, within 15 minutes from the time appointed for the general meeting, or at any time during the meeting, a quorum is not present, the meeting, if convened upon the requisition of shareholders, shall be cancelled. In any other case it shall stand adjourned to the same time and place seven days hence, or to such other time or place as is determined by the directors.
The chairman may, with the consent of a meeting at which a quorum is present, adjourn the meeting. When a meeting is adjourned for more than seven clear days, notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given in accordance with the articles.
At any general meeting a resolution put to the vote of the meeting shall be decided on a poll.
A poll shall be taken in such manner as the chairman directs and the result of the poll shall be deemed to be the resolution of the meeting.
In the case of an equality of votes, the chairman of the meeting shall not be entitled to a second or casting vote.
Directors of Diginex Limited
We may by ordinary resolution, from time to time, fix the maximum and minimum number of directors to be appointed. Under the articles, we are required to have a minimum of one director and the maximum number of Directors shall be unlimited.
A director may be appointed by ordinary resolution or by the directors. Any appointment may be to fill a vacancy or as an additional director.
Unless the remuneration of the directors is determined by the shareholders by ordinary resolution, the directors shall be entitled to such remuneration as the directors may determine.
The shareholding qualification for directors may be fixed by our shareholders by ordinary resolution and unless and until so fixed no share qualification shall be required.
A director may be removed by ordinary resolution. The Articles do not require an annual director election.
A director may at any time resign from office by giving us notice in writing. Unless the notice specifies a different date, the director shall be deemed to have resigned on the date that the notice is delivered to us.
Subject to the provisions of the articles, the office of a director may be terminated forthwith if:
● | he is prohibited by the law of the Cayman Islands from acting as a director; | |
● | he is made bankrupt or makes an arrangement or composition with his creditors generally; | |
● | he resigns his office by notice to us; | |
● | he only held office as a director for a fixed term and such term expires; | |
● | in the opinion of a registered medical practitioner by whom he is being treated he becomes physically or mentally incapable of acting as a director; |
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● | he is given notice by the majority of the other directors (not being less than two in number) to vacate office (without prejudice to any claim for damages for breach of any agreement relating to the provision of the services of such director); | |
● | he is made subject to any law relating to mental health or incompetence, whether by court order or otherwise; or | |
● | without the consent of the other directors, he is absent from meetings of directors for continuous period of six months. |
Each of the audit and risk committee and the nomination and compensation committee shall consist of at least three directors and the majority of the committee members shall be independent within the meaning of Section 5605(a)(2) of the Nasdaq listing rules. The audit committee shall consist of at least three directors, all of whom shall be independent within the meaning of Section 5605(a)(2) of the Nasdaq listing rules and will meet the criteria for independence set forth in Rule 10A-3 or Rule 10C-1 of the Exchange Act.
Powers and Duties of Diginex Limited’s Directors
Subject to the provisions of the Companies Act and our Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles, our business shall be managed by the directors, who may exercise all our powers. No prior act of the directors shall be invalidated by any subsequent alteration of our memorandum or articles. To the extent allowed by the Companies Act, however, shareholders may by special resolution validate any prior or future act of the directors which would otherwise be in breach of their duties.
The directors may delegate any of their powers to any committee consisting of one or more persons who need not be shareholders and may include non-directors so long as the majority of those persons are directors; any committee so formed shall in the exercise of the powers so delegated conform to any regulations that may be imposed on it by the directors. Upon the initial closing of this Offering, our board of directors will have established an audit and risk committee, and a nomination and compensation committee.
The board of directors may establish any local or divisional board of directors or agency and delegate to it its powers and authorities (with power to sub-delegate) for managing any of our affairs whether in the Cayman Islands or elsewhere and may appoint any persons to be members of a local or divisional board of directors, or to be managers or agents, and may fix their remuneration.
The directors may from time to time and at any time by power of attorney or in any other manner they determine appoint any person, either generally or in respect of any specific matter, to be our agent with or without authority for that person to delegate all or any of that person’s powers.
The directors may from time to time and at any time by power of attorney or in any other manner they determine appoint any person, whether nominated directly or indirectly by the directors, to be our attorney or our authorized signatory and for such period and subject to such conditions as they may think fit. The powers, authorities and discretions, however, must not exceed those vested in, or exercisable, by the directors under the articles.
The board of directors may remove any person so appointed and may revoke or vary the delegation.
The directors may exercise all of our powers to borrow money and to mortgage or charge its undertaking, property and assets both present and future and uncalled capital or any part thereof, to issue debentures and other securities whether outright or as collateral security for any debt, liability or obligation of ours or our parent undertaking (if any) or any subsidiary undertaking of us or of any third party.
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Subject to the applicable listing rules and disqualification by the chairman of the relevant board meeting, a director may, vote (and be counted in the quorum) in respect of any contract, transaction, arrangement or proposal in which he has an interest, provided that the nature and extent of any such material interest has been duly declared at a meeting of the directors by a general notice given to the other directors prior to the consideration of the meeting.
Interested Directors
Interested director transactions are governed by the terms of a company’s memorandum and articles of association. The Articles provide that a director who is in any way, whether directly or indirectly, interested in a contract or transaction or proposed contract or transaction with the Company shall declare the nature of his interest at a meeting of the directors. A general notice given to the directors by any director to the effect that he is a member of any specified company or firm and is to be regarded as interested in any contract or transaction which may thereafter be made with that company or firm shall be deemed a sufficient declaration of interest in regard to any contract so made or transaction so consummated. Subject to the applicable listing rules and disqualification by the chairman of the relevant board meeting, a director may vote in respect of any contract or transaction or proposed contract or transaction notwithstanding that he may be interested therein provided the director discloses to his fellow directors the nature and extent of any material interests in respect of any contract or transaction or proposed contract or transaction and if he does so his vote shall be counted and he may be counted in the quorum at any meeting of the directors at which any such contract or transaction or proposed contract or transaction shall come before the meeting for consideration.
Capitalization of Diginex Limited’s Profits
Subject to the Memorandum and Articles, the directors may resolve to capitalize:
● | any part of our profits not required for paying any preferential dividend (whether or not those profits are available for distribution); or | |
● | any sum standing to the credit of our share premium account or capital redemption reserve, if any. |
The amount resolved to be capitalized must be appropriated to the shareholders who would have been entitled to it had it been distributed by way of dividend and in the same proportions.
Shareholder Proposal Rights
The Companies Act does not provide shareholders any right to bring business before a meeting or requisition a general meeting. However, these rights may be provided in the company’s memorandum and articles of association.
The shareholders are entitled to requisition a general meeting in accordance with the provisions of the Articles, but the Articles does not expressly provide for any shareholders proposal rights.
Liquidation Rights of Diginex Limited’s Shareholders
If we are wound up, the shareholders may, subject to the articles and any other sanction required by the Companies Act, pass a special resolution allowing the liquidator to do either or both of the following:
● | to divide in specie among the shareholders the whole or any part of our assets and, for that purpose, to value any assets and to determine how the division shall be carried out as between the shareholders or different classes of shareholders; and | |
● | to vest the whole or any part of the assets in trustees for the benefit of shareholders and those liable to contribute to the winding up. |
The directors have the authority to present a petition for our winding up to the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands on our behalf without the sanction of a resolution passed at a general meeting.
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Diginex Limited’s Register of Members
Under the Companies Act, we must keep a register of members and there should be entered therein:
● | the names and addresses of our shareholders, and, a statement of the shares held by each member, which: | ||
● | distinguishes each share by its number (so long as the share has a number); | ||
● | confirms the amount paid, or agreed to be considered as paid, on the shares of each member; | ||
● | confirms the number and category of shares held by each member; and | ||
● | confirms whether each relevant category of shares held by a member carries voting rights under the articles of association of the company, and if so, whether such voting rights are conditional; | ||
● | the date on which the name of any person was entered on the register as a shareholder; and | ||
● | the date on which any person ceased to be a shareholder. |
Under the Companies Act, the register of members of our Company is prima facie evidence of the matters set out therein (that is, the register of members will raise a presumption of fact on the matters referred to above unless rebutted) and a shareholder registered in the register of members is deemed as a matter of the Companies Act to have legal title to the shares as set against its name in the register of members. Upon the completion of this Offering, the register of members will be immediately updated to record and give effect to the issuance of shares by us to the custodian or its nominee. Once our register of members has been updated, the shareholders recorded in the register of members will be deemed to have legal title to the shares set against their name.
If the name of any person is incorrectly entered in or omitted from our register of members, or if there is any default or unnecessary delay in entering on the register the fact of any person having ceased to be a shareholder of our Company, the person or shareholder aggrieved (or any shareholder of our Company or our Company itself) may apply to the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands for an order that the register be rectified, and the Court may either refuse such application or it may, if satisfied of the justice of the case, make an order for the rectification of the register.
Certain Differences in Corporate Law
The Companies Act is derived, to a large extent, from the older Companies Acts of England and Wales but does not follow recent United Kingdom statutory enactments, and accordingly there are significant differences between the Companies Act and the current Companies Act of the UK. In addition, the Companies Act differs from laws applicable to United States corporations and their shareholders. Set forth below is a summary of certain significant differences between the provisions of the Companies Act applicable to us and the comparable laws applicable to companies incorporated in the State of Delaware in the United States and companies incorporated in Hong Kong.
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Delaware | Cayman Islands | |||
Title of Organizational Documents | Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws | Certificate of Incorporation and Memorandum and Articles of Association | ||
Duties of Directors | Under Delaware law, the business and affairs of a corporation are managed by or under the direction of its board of directors. In exercising their powers, directors are charged with a fiduciary duty of care to protect the interests of the corporation and a fiduciary duty of loyalty to act in the best interests of its shareholders. The duty of care requires that directors act in an informed and deliberative manner and inform themselves, prior to making a business decision, of all material information reasonably available to them. The duty of care also requires that directors exercise care in overseeing and investigating the conduct of the corporation’s employees. The duty of loyalty may be summarized as the duty to act in good faith, not out of self-interest, and in a manner which the director reasonably believes to be in the best interests of the shareholders. | As a matter of Cayman Islands law, a director owes three types of duties to the company: (i) statutory duties, (ii) fiduciary duties, and (iii) common law duties. The Companies Act imposes a number of statutory duties on a director. A Cayman Islands director’s fiduciary duties are not codified, however the courts of the Cayman Islands have held that a director owes the following fiduciary duties (a) a duty to act in what the director bona fide considers to be in the best interests of the company, (b) a duty to exercise their powers for the purposes they were conferred, (c) a duty to avoid fettering his or her discretion in the future and (d) a duty to avoid conflicts of interest and of duty. The common law duties owed by a director are those to act with skill, care and diligence that may reasonably be expected of a person carrying out the same functions as are carried out by that director in relation to the company and, also, to act with the skill, care and diligence in keeping with a standard of care commensurate with any particular skill they have which enables them to meet a higher standard than a director without those skills. In fulfilling their duty of care to us, our directors must ensure compliance with our amended articles of association, as amended and restated from time to time. We have the right to seek damages where certain duties owed by any of our directors are breached. | ||
Limitations on Personal Liability of Directors | Subject to the limitations described below, a certificate of incorporation may provide for the elimination or limitation of the personal liability of a director to the corporation or its shareholders for monetary damages for a breach of fiduciary duty as a director. Such provision cannot limit liability for breach of loyalty, bad faith, intentional misconduct, unlawful payment of dividends or unlawful share purchase or redemption. In addition, the certificate of incorporation cannot limit liability for any act or omission occurring prior to the date when such provision becomes effective. | The Cayman Islands law does not limit the extent to which a company’s articles of association may provide for indemnification of Officers and directors, except to the extent any such provision may be held by the Cayman Islands courts to be contrary to public policy, such as to provide indemnification against the indemnified person’s own fraud, dishonesty, willful default or willful neglect or against the consequences of committing a crime. |
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Indemnification of Directors, Officers, Agents, and Others | A corporation has the power to indemnify any director, officer, employee, or agent of corporation who was, is, or is threatened to be made a party who acted in good faith and in a manner he believed to be in the best interests of the corporation, and if with respect to a criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his conduct would be unlawful, against amounts actually and reasonably incurred. | Cayman Islands law does not limit the extent to which a company’s memorandum and articles of association may provide for indemnification of directors and officers, except to the extent any such provision may be held by the Cayman Islands courts to be contrary to public policy, such as to provide indemnification against the consequences of committing a crime, or against the indemnified person’s own fraud, dishonesty willful default or willful neglect.
Our amended and restated articles of association provide to the extent permitted by law, we shall indemnify each existing or former secretary, director (including alternate director), and any of our other officers (including an investment adviser or an administrator or liquidator) and their personal representatives against: (a) all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, expenses, losses, damages or liabilities incurred or sustained by the existing or former director (including alternate director), secretary or officer in or about the conduct of our business or affairs or in the execution or discharge of the existing or former director (including alternate director), secretary’s or officer’s duties, powers, authorities or discretions; and (b) without limitation to paragraph (a) above, all costs, expenses, losses or liabilities incurred by the existing or former director (including alternate director), secretary or officer in defending (whether successfully or otherwise) any civil, criminal, administrative or investigative proceedings (whether threatened, pending or completed) concerning us or our affairs in any court or tribunal, whether in the Cayman Islands or elsewhere. |
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No such existing or former director (including alternate director), secretary or officer, however, shall be indemnified in respect of any matter arising out of his own dishonesty, fraud, willful default or willful neglect.
To the extent permitted by law, we may make a payment, or agree to make a payment, whether by way of advance, loan or otherwise, for any legal costs incurred by an existing or former director (including alternate director), secretary or any of our officers in respect of any matter identified in above on condition that the director (including alternate director), secretary or officer must repay the amount paid by us to the extent that it is ultimately found not liable to indemnify the director (including alternate director), the secretary or that officer for those legal costs. | ||||
Interested Directors | Under Delaware law, a transaction in which a director who has an interest in such transaction would not be voidable if (i) the material facts as to such interested director’s relationship or interests are disclosed or are known to the board of directors and the board in good faith authorizes the transaction by the affirmative vote of a majority of the disinterested directors, even though the disinterested directors are less than a quorum, (ii) such material facts are disclosed or are known to the shareholders entitled to vote on such transaction and the transaction is specifically approved in good faith by vote of the shareholders, or (iii) the transaction is fair as to the corporation as of the time it is authorized, approved or ratified. Under Delaware law, a director could be held liable for any transaction in which such director derived an improper personal benefit. | Interested director transactions are governed by the terms of a company’s memorandum and articles of association.
The Articles provide that a director who is in any way, whether directly or indirectly, interested in a contract or transaction or proposed contract or transaction with the Company shall declare the nature of his interest at a meeting of the directors. A general notice given to the directors by any director to the effect that he is a member of any specified company or firm and is to be regarded as interested in any contract or transaction which may thereafter be made with that company or firm shall be deemed a sufficient declaration of interest in regard to any contract so made or transaction so consummated. Subject to the applicable listing rules and disqualification by the chairman of the relevant board meeting, a Director may vote in respect of any contract or transaction or proposed contract or transaction notwithstanding that he may be interested therein provided the director discloses to his fellow directors the nature and extent of any material interests in respect of any contract or transaction or proposed contract or transaction and if he does so his vote shall be counted and he may be counted in the quorum at any meeting of the directors at which any such contract or transaction or proposed contract or transaction shall come before the meeting for consideration.: |
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Voting Requirements | The certificate of incorporation may include a provision requiring supermajority approval by the directors or shareholders for any corporate action.
In addition, under Delaware law, certain business combinations involving interested shareholders require approval by a supermajority of the non-interested shareholders. |
For the protection of shareholders, certain matters must be approved by special resolution of the shareholders as a matter of Cayman Islands law, including alteration of the memorandum or articles of association, appointment of inspectors to examine company affairs, reduction of share capital (subject, in relevant circumstances, to court approval), change of name, authorization of a plan of merger or transfer by way of continuation to another jurisdiction or consolidation or voluntary winding up of the company.
The Companies Act requires that a special resolution be passed by a majority of at least two-thirds or such higher percentage as set forth in the memorandum and articles of association, of shareholders being entitled to vote and do vote in person or by proxy at a general meeting, or by unanimous written consent of shareholders entitled to vote at a general meeting.
The Companies Act defines “special resolutions” only. A company’s memorandum and articles of association can therefore tailor the definition of “ordinary resolutions” as a whole, or with respect to specific provisions. | ||
Voting for Directors | Under Delaware law, unless otherwise specified in the certificate of incorporation or bylaws of the corporation, directors shall be elected by a plurality of the votes of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the election of directors. | Director election is governed by the terms of the memorandum and articles of association. |
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Cumulative Voting | No cumulative voting for the election of directors unless so provided in the certificate of incorporation. | There are no prohibitions in relation to cumulative voting under the Companies Act but our amended and restated articles of association do not provide for cumulative voting. | ||
Directors’ Powers Regarding Bylaws | The certificate of incorporation may grant the directors the power to adopt, amend or repeal bylaws. |
The memorandum and articles of association may only be amended by a special resolution of the shareholders. | ||
Nomination and Removal of Directors and Filling Vacancies on Board | Shareholders may generally nominate directors if they comply with advance notice provisions and other procedural requirements in company bylaws. Holders of a majority of the shares may remove a director with or without cause, except in certain cases involving a classified board or if the company uses cumulative voting. Unless otherwise provided for in the certificate of incorporation, directorship vacancies are filled by a majority of the directors elected or then in office. | Nomination and removal of directors and filling of board vacancies are governed by the terms of the memorandum and articles of association. |
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Mergers and Similar Arrangements | Under Delaware law, with certain exceptions, a merger, consolidation, or sale of all or substantially all of the assets of a corporation must be approved by the board of directors and by a majority of the outstanding voting power of the shares entitled to vote thereon. Under Delaware law, a shareholder of a corporation participating in certain mergers are entitled to appraisal rights pursuant to which such shareholder may receive cash in the amount of the fair value (as determined by the Delaware Court of Chancery) of the shares held by such shareholder in lieu of the consideration such shareholder would otherwise receive in the transaction. | The Companies Act provides for the merger or consolidation of two or more companies into a single entity. The legislation makes a distinction between a “consolidation” and a “merger.” In a consolidation, a new entity is formed from the combination of each participating company, and the separate consolidating parties, as a consequence, cease to exist and are each stricken by the Registrar of Companies. In a merger, one company remains as the surviving entity, having in effect absorbed the other merging parties that are then stricken and cease to exist. | ||
Delaware law also provides that a parent entity, by resolution of its board of directors, may merge with any subsidiary corporation, of which it owns at least 90% of each class of capital stock without a vote by shareholders of such subsidiary. Upon any such merger, dissenting shareholders of the subsidiary would have appraisal rights unless the subsidiary is wholly owned. | Two or more Cayman-registered companies may merge or consolidate. Cayman-registered companies may also merge or consolidate with foreign companies provided that the laws of the foreign jurisdiction permit such merger or consolidation.
Under the Companies Act, a plan of merger or consolidation shall be authorized by each constituent company by way of (i) a special resolution of the members of each such constituent company; and (ii) such other authorization, if any, as may be specified in such constituent company’s memorandum and articles of association. |
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A merger between a Cayman parent company and its Cayman subsidiary or subsidiaries does not require authorization by a resolution of shareholders of that Cayman subsidiary if a copy of the plan of merger is given to every member of that Cayman subsidiary to be merged unless that member agrees otherwise. For this purpose a subsidiary is a company of which at least ninety percent (90%) of the votes are owned by the parent company.
The consent of each holder of a fixed or floating security interest over a constituent company is required unless this requirement is waived by a court in the Cayman Islands.
Save in certain circumstances, a dissentient shareholder of a Cayman constituent company is entitled to payment of the fair value of his shares upon dissenting to a merger or consolidation. The exercise of appraisal rights will preclude the exercise of any other rights save for the right to seek relief on the grounds that the merger or consolidation is void or unlawful.
In addition, there are statutory provisions that facilitate the reconstruction and amalgamation of companies, provided that the arrangement is approved by seventy-five percent (75%) in value of the shareholders or class of shareholders, as the case may be, that are present and voting either in person or by proxy at a meeting, or meetings, convened for that purpose. The convening of the meetings and subsequently the arrangement must be sanctioned by the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands. While a dissenting shareholder has the right to express to the court the view that the transaction ought not to be approved, the court can be expected to approve the arrangement if it determines that: |
● | the statutory provisions as to the required majority vote have been met; | ||||
● | the shareholders have been fairly represented at the meeting in question; |
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● | the arrangement is such that may be reasonably approved by an intelligent and honest man of that class acting in respect of his interest; and | ||||
● | the arrangement is not one that would more properly be sanctioned under some other provision of the Companies Act or that would amount to a “fraud on the minority”. |
When a takeover offer is made and accepted by holders of not less than 90.0% of the shares affected within four (4) months, the offeror may, within a two (2) month period commencing on the expiration of such four (4) month period, require the holders of the remaining shares to transfer such shares on the terms of the offer. An objection can be made to the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands, but this is unlikely to succeed in the case of an offer which has been so approved unless there is evidence of fraud, bad faith or collusion.
If an arrangement and reconstruction is thus approved, the dissenting shareholder would have no rights comparable to appraisal rights, which would otherwise ordinarily be available to dissenting shareholders of Delaware corporations, providing rights to receive payment in cash for the judicially determined value of the shares. |
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Shareholder Suits | Class actions and derivative actions generally are available to shareholders under Delaware law for, among other things, breach of fiduciary duty, corporate waste and actions not taken in accordance with applicable law.
In such actions, the court generally has discretion to permit the winning party to recover attorneys’ fees incurred in connection with such action but such discretion is rarely used. Generally, Delaware follows the American rule under which each party bears its own costs. |
In principle, we will normally be the proper plaintiff and as a general rule a derivative action may not be brought by a minority shareholder. However, based on English authorities, which would in all likelihood be of persuasive authority in the Cayman Islands, there are exceptions to the foregoing principle, including when: |
● | a company acts or proposes to act illegally or ultra vires; | ||||
● | the act complained of, although not ultra vires, could only be effected duly if authorized by more than a simple majority vote that has not been obtained; and | ||||
● | those who control the company are perpetrating a “fraud on the minority. |
Inspection of Corporate Records | Under Delaware law, shareholders of a corporation, upon written demand under oath stating the purpose thereof, have the right during normal business hours to inspect for any proper purpose, and to make copies and extracts of list(s) of shareholders and other books and records of the corporation and its subsidiaries, if any, to the extent the books and records of such subsidiaries are available to the corporation. | Shareholders of a Cayman Islands exempted company have no general right under Cayman Islands law to inspect or obtain copies of a list of shareholders or other corporate records (other than copies of our memorandum and articles, the register of mortgages or charges, and any special resolutions passed by our shareholders) of the company. However, these rights may be provided in the company’s memorandum and articles of association. |
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Shareholder Proposals | Under Delaware law, a shareholder has the right to put any proposal before the annual meeting of shareholders, provided it complies with the notice provisions in the corporation’s governing documents. A special meeting may be called by the board of directors or any other person authorized to do so in the corporation’s governing documents, but shareholders may be precluded from calling special meetings. | The Companies Act does not provide shareholders any right to bring business before a meeting or requisition a general meeting. However, these rights may be provided in the company’s memorandum and articles of association.
The shareholders are entitled to requisition a general meeting in accordance with the provisions of the Articles, but the Articles does not expressly provide for any shareholders proposal rights. | ||
Approval of Corporate Matters by Written Consent | Delaware law permits shareholders to take action by written consent signed by the holders of outstanding shares having not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting of shareholders unless otherwise provided in the corporation’s certificate of incorporation. A corporation must send prompt notice of the taking of the corporate action approved by shareholders without a meeting by less than unanimous written consent to those shareholders who have not consented in writing and who would have otherwise been entitled to notice of the meeting at which such action would have been taken. | The Companies Act allows a special resolution to be passed in writing if signed by all the voting shareholders (if authorized by the memorandum and articles of association). | ||
Calling of Special Shareholders Meetings | Delaware law permits the board of directors or any person who is authorized under a corporation’s certificate of incorporation or bylaws to call a special meeting of shareholders. | The Companies Act does not have provisions governing the proceedings of shareholders meetings which are usually provided in the memorandum and articles of association. |
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Anti-money Laundering — Cayman Islands
In order to comply with legislation or regulations aimed at the prevention of money laundering, we are required to adopt and maintain anti-money laundering procedures and may require subscribers to provide evidence to verify their identity and source of funds. Where permitted, and subject to certain conditions, we may also delegate the maintenance of our anti-money laundering procedures (including the acquisition of due diligence information) to a suitable person.
We reserve the right to request such information as is necessary to verify the identity of a subscriber. In some cases the directors may be satisfied that no further information is required since an exemption applies under the Anti-Money Laundering Regulations (Revised) of the Cayman Islands, as amended and revised from time to time (the “Regulations”). Depending on the circumstances of each application, a detailed verification of identity might not be required where:
● | the subscriber makes the payment for their investment from an account held in the subscriber’s name at a recognized financial institution; or | |
● | the subscriber is regulated by a recognized regulatory authority and is based or incorporated in, or formed under the law of, a recognized jurisdiction; or | |
● | the application is made through an intermediary which is regulated by a recognized regulatory authority and is based in or incorporated in, or formed under the law of a recognized jurisdiction and an assurance is provided in relation to the procedures undertaken on the underlying investors. |
For the purposes of these exceptions, recognition of a financial institution, regulatory authority, or jurisdiction will be determined in accordance with the Regulations by reference to those jurisdictions recognized by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority as having equivalent anti-money laundering regulations.
In the event of delay or failure on the part of the subscriber in producing any information required for verification purposes, we may refuse to accept the application, in which case any funds received will be returned without interest to the account from which they were originally debited.
We also reserve the right to refuse to make any redemption payment to a shareholder if our directors or officers suspect or are advised that the payment of redemption proceeds to such shareholder might result in a breach of applicable anti-money laundering or other laws or regulations by any person in any relevant jurisdiction, or if such refusal is considered necessary or appropriate to ensure our compliance with any such laws or regulations in any applicable jurisdiction.
If any person resident in the Cayman Islands knows or suspects or has reason for knowing or suspecting that another person is engaged in criminal conduct or is involved with terrorism or terrorist property and the information for that knowledge or suspicion came to their attention in the course of their business in the regulated sector, or other trade, profession, business or employment, the person will be required to report such knowledge or suspicion to (i) a nominated officer (appointed in accordance with the Proceeds of Crime Act (Revised) of the Cayman Islands) or the Financial Reporting Authority of the Cayman Islands, pursuant to the Proceeds of Crime Act (Revised), if the disclosure relates to criminal conduct or money laundering or (ii) to a police constable or a nominated officer (pursuant to the Terrorism Act (Revised) of the Cayman Islands) or the Financial Reporting Authority, pursuant to the Terrorism Act (Revised), if the disclosure relates to involvement with terrorism or terrorist financing and terrorist property. Such a report shall not be treated as a breach of confidence or of any restriction upon the disclosure of information imposed by any enactment or otherwise.
Data Protection in the Cayman Islands — Privacy Notice
This privacy notice explains the manner in which we collect, process, and maintain personal data about our investors pursuant to the Data Protection Act (Revised) of the Cayman Islands, as amended from time to time and any regulations, codes of practice, or orders promulgated pursuant thereto (the “DPA”).
We are committed to processing personal data in accordance with the DPA. In our use of personal data, we will be characterized under the DPA as a “data controller,” whilst certain of our service providers, affiliates, and delegates may act as “data processors” under the DPA. These service providers may process personal information for their own lawful purposes in connection with services provided to us.
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By virtue of your investment in our Company, we and certain of our service providers may collect, record, store, transfer, and otherwise process personal data by which individuals may be directly or indirectly identified.
Your personal data will be processed fairly and for lawful purposes, including (a) where the processing is necessary for us to perform a contract to which you are a party or for taking pre-contractual steps at your request, (b) where the processing is necessary for compliance with any legal, tax, or regulatory obligation to which we are subject, or (c) where the processing is for the purposes of legitimate interests pursued by us or by a service provider to whom the data are disclosed. As a data controller, we will only use your personal data for the purposes for which we collected it. If we need to use your personal data for an unrelated purpose, we will contact you.
We anticipate that we will share your personal data with our service providers for the purposes set out in this privacy notice. We may also share relevant personal data where it is lawful to do so and necessary to comply with our contractual obligations or your instructions or where it is necessary or desirable to do so in connection with any regulatory reporting obligations. In exceptional circumstances, we will share your personal data with regulatory, prosecuting, and other governmental agencies or departments, and parties to litigation (whether pending or threatened), in any country or territory including to any other person where we have a public or legal duty to do so (e.g. to assist with detecting and preventing fraud, tax evasion, and financial crime or compliance with a court order).
Your personal data shall not be held by our Company for longer than necessary with regard to the purposes of the data processing.
We will not sell your personal data. Any transfer of personal data outside of the Cayman Islands shall be in accordance with the requirements of the DPA. Where necessary, we will ensure that separate and appropriate legal agreements are put in place with the recipient of that data.
We will only transfer personal data in accordance with the requirements of the DPA, and will apply appropriate technical and organizational information security measures designed to protect against unauthorized or unlawful processing of the personal data and against the accidental loss, destruction, or damage to the personal data.
If you are a natural person, this will affect you directly. If you are a corporate investor (including, for these purposes, legal arrangements such as trusts or exempted limited partnerships) that provides us with personal data on individuals connected to you for any reason in relation to your investment into our Company, this will be relevant for those individuals and you should inform such individuals of the content.
You have certain rights under the DPA, including (a) the right to be informed as to how we collect and use your personal data (and this privacy notice fulfils our obligation in this respect), (b) the right to obtain a copy of your personal data, (c) the right to require us to stop direct marketing, (d) the right to have inaccurate or incomplete personal data corrected, (e) the right to withdraw your consent and require us to stop processing or restrict the processing, or not begin the processing of your personal data, (f) the right to be notified of a data breach (unless the breach is unlikely to be prejudicial), (g) the right to obtain information as to any countries or territories outside the Cayman Islands to which we, whether directly or indirectly, transfer, intend to transfer, or wish to transfer your personal data, general measures we take to ensure the security of personal data, and any information available to us as to the source of your personal data, (h) the right to complain to the Office of the Ombudsman of the Cayman Islands, and (i) the right to require us to delete your personal data in some limited circumstances.
If you consider that your personal data has not been handled correctly, or you are not satisfied with our responses to any requests you have made regarding the use of your personal data, you have the right to complain to the Cayman Islands’ Ombudsman. The Ombudsman can be contacted by calling +1 (345) 946-6283 or by email at info@ombudsman.ky.
Legislation of the Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands, together with several other non-European Union jurisdictions, have recently introduced legislation aimed at addressing concerns raised by the Council of the European Union as to offshore structures engaged in certain activities which attract profits without real economic activity. With effect from January 1, 2019, the International Tax Co-operation (Economic Substance) Act (Revised) (the “Substance Act”) came into force in the Cayman Islands introducing certain economic substance requirements for in-scope Cayman Islands entities which are engaged in certain “relevant activities,” which in the case of exempted companies incorporated before January 1, 2019, applies in respect of financial years commencing July 1, 2019, onwards. However, it is anticipated that our Company may remain out of scope of the legislation or else be subject to more limited substance requirements.
Certain Anti-Takeover Provisions in our Charter
Rule 144
Pursuant to Rule 144 under the Securities Act (“Rule 144”), a person who has beneficially owned restricted Ordinary Shares or warrants for at least six months would be entitled to sell their securities, provided that (i) such person is not deemed to have been one of our affiliates at the time of, or at any time during the three months preceding, a sale and (ii) we are subject to the Exchange Act periodic reporting requirements for at least three months before the sale and have filed all required reports under Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act during the 12 months (or such shorter period as we were required to file reports) preceding the sale.
Persons who have beneficially owned restricted Ordinary Shares or warrants for at least six months but who are our affiliates at the time of, or at any time during the three months preceding, a sale, would be subject to additional restrictions, by which such person would be entitled to sell within any three-month period only a number of securities that does not exceed the greater of:
● | one percent (1%) of the total number of shares of Ordinary Shares then issued and outstanding; or | |
● | the average weekly reported trading volume of the Ordinary Shares during the four calendar weeks preceding the filing of a notice on Form 144 with respect to the sale. |
Sales by our affiliates under Rule 144 are also limited by manner of sale provisions and notice requirements and to the availability of current public information about us.
Listing of Securities
The Company’s plans to apply to list its Ordinary Shares on The Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol “DGNX”.
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The following table sets forth information with respect to the beneficial ownership, within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act, of our Ordinary Shares as of the date of this prospectus, and as adjusted to reflect the sale of the Ordinary Shares offered in this offering for:
● each of our directors and executive officers; and
● each person known to us to own beneficially more than 5% of our Ordinary Shares.
Beneficial ownership includes voting or investment power with respect to the securities. Except as indicated below, and subject to applicable community property laws, the persons named in the table have sole voting and investment power with respect to all Ordinary Shares shown as beneficially owned by them. Percentage of beneficial ownership of each listed person prior to this Offering is based on 20,942,950 Ordinary Shares issued and outstanding prior to this Offering. Percentage of beneficial ownership of each listed person after this Offering is based on 23,192,950 Ordinary Shares issued and outstanding immediately after the completion of this Offering (assuming that the over-allotment option is not exercised).
Information with respect to beneficial ownership has been furnished by each director, officer, or beneficial owner of 5% or more of our Ordinary Shares. Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and generally requires that such person have voting or investment power with respect to securities. In computing the number of Ordinary Shares beneficially owned by a person listed below and the percentage ownership of such person, Ordinary Shares underlying options, warrants or convertible securities held by each such person that are exercisable or convertible within 60 days of the date of this prospectus are deemed outstanding, but are not deemed outstanding for computing the percentage ownership of any other person.
Before IPO | After IPO | |||||||||||||||
Name of Beneficial Owner | Number
of Ordinary Shares beneficially owned | Percentage
of Ordinary Shares beneficially owned | Number
of Ordinary Shares beneficially owned | Percentage
of Ordinary Shares beneficially owned | ||||||||||||
Miles Pelham(1) | 10,595,224 | 50.6 | % | 10,595,224 | 45.7 | % | ||||||||||
Rhino Ventures Limited(1) | 10,300,844 | 49.2 | % | 10,300,844 | 44.4 | % | ||||||||||
Mark Blick (2) | 294,380 | 1.4 | % | 294,380 | 1.3 | % | ||||||||||
Graham Bridges (3) | 180,400 | 0.9 | % | 180,400 | 0.8 | % | ||||||||||
Christian Thierfelder (4) | 180,400 | 0.9 | % | 180,400 | 0.8 | % | ||||||||||
All directors and Executive Officers as a Group | 11,250,404 | 53.8 | % | 11,250,404 | 48.6 | % | ||||||||||
Five Percent Holders: | ||||||||||||||||
Miles Pelham | 10,595,224 | 50.6 | % | 10,595,224 | 45.7 | % | ||||||||||
Rhino Ventures Limited (1) | 10,300,844 | 49.2 | % | 10,300,844 | 44.4 | % | ||||||||||
HBM IV, Inc. (5) | 3,970,400 | 19.0 | % | 3,970,400 | 17.1 | % | ||||||||||
Nalimz Holding Limited (6) | 1,594,292 | 7.6 | % | 1,594,292 | 6.9 | % | ||||||||||
Natalia Pelham (7) | 1,049,600 | 5.0 | % | 1,049,600 | 4.5 | % |
(1) | Rhino Ventures Limited, a British Virgin Islands limited liability company, is wholly-owned and managed by Miles Pelham, who has voting and dispositive control over the Ordinary Shares held by Rhino Ventures Limited. The business address of Rhino Ventures Limited is Craigmuir Chambers, Road Town, Tortola, VS 1110, British Virgin Islands. In addition to holding 9,333,242 Ordinary Shares, Rhino Ventures Limited also holds 4,170,520 warrants issued by the Company and holds a $517,535 convertible loan note that will convert into 367,602 Ordinary Shares. Rhino Ventures will also convert a $3 million shareholder loan upon IPO in exchange for 600,000 Ordinary Shares. Miles Pelham also holds 294,380 Ordinary Shares in his own name. Miles Pelham also holds 303,400 unexercised employee share options. |
(2) | Mark Blick, Chief Executive Officer at Diginex Limited holds 294,380 and is resident in Hong Kong |
(3) | Graham Bridges, Chief Technology Officer at Diginex Limited holds 180,400 Ordinary Shares and is resident in Hong Kong |
(4) | Christian Thierfelder, Chief Operating Officer at Diginex Limited holds 180,400 Ordinary Shares and is resident in Monaco. |
(5) | HBM IV, Inc. is incorporated in the State of Delaware.. HBM IV, Inc. owns 2,583,820 shares of Diginex Limited Series A Convertible Preferred Shares which are convertible into 2,583,820 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited. In addition, HBM IV, Inc hold a $2 million convertible loan note that will convert into 1,386,580 Ordinary Shares. Pursuant to the definition of “beneficial owner” set forth in Rule 13d-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, each of HBM IV, Inc., Hearst Communications, Inc., Hearst Holdings, Inc., The Hearst Corporation, and The Hearst Family Trust may be deemed to beneficially own the shares held by HBM IV, Inc. Hearst Communications, Inc. has the power to direct the voting and disposition of the shares as the controlling stockholder of HBM IV, Inc. Hearst Holdings, Inc. has the power to direct the voting and disposition of the shares as the controlling stockholder of Hearst Communications, Inc. The Hearst Corporation has the power to direct the voting and disposition of the shares as the controlling stockholder of Hearst Holdings, Inc. The Hearst Family Trust has the power to direct the voting and disposition of the shares as the controlling stockholder of The Hearst Corporation. No natural person ultimately has the investment and/or voting power over the shares of Diginex Limited beneficially owned by HBM IV, Inc. The Hearst Family Trust (the “Trust”), as referenced above, is controlled by three or more trustees, none of whom individually has investment and/or voting power over the shares beneficially owned by the Trust. The address of each of HBM IV, Inc., Hearst Communications, Inc., Hearst Holdings, Inc., The Hearst Corporation and The Hearst Family Trust is 300 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019, USA. | |
(6) | Nalimz Holdings Limited is a Hong Kong limited liability company, is controlled by Josip Zaja, who has voting and dispositive control over the Diginex Limited Ordinary Shares held by Nalimz Holdings Limited. The business address is Unit 915, 9F, North Tower, Concordia, 1 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong. | |
(7) | Natalia Pelham is the spouse of Miles Pelham the Chairman of Diginex Limited. Miles Pelham disclaims beneficial ownership of the securities held by Natalia Pelham. |
As of the date of this prospectus, we have 20 shareholders of record. All of our officers, directors and shareholders as of the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part are subject to lock-up agreements. See “Shares Eligible For Future Sale — Lock-Up Agreements.”
We believe that Diginex Limited’s offers, sales and issuances of the securities to its shareholders were exempt from registration either (a) under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, in that the transactions were between an issuer and sophisticated investors or members of its senior executive management and did not involve any public offering within the meaning of Section 4(a)(2), (b) under Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act in that offers, sales and issuances were not made to persons in the United States and no directed selling efforts were made in the United States, or (c) under Rule 701 promulgated under the Securities Act in that the transactions were underwritten compensatory benefit plans or written compensatory contracts.
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Solutions Business Acquisition
On May 15, 2020, Diginex Limited, a company incorporated in Hong Kong, an entity related to the Company (“Diginex HK”), together with Diginex Solutions Limited, sold the legal entities of Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited and Diginex USA LLC, together with the trademarks associated with the Diginex name, to a related party, Rhino Ventures Limited, an entity controlled by Miles Pelham, the founder and former chairman of Diginex HK. The consideration of $6,000,000, that was paid by Rhino Ventures Limited for Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited and Diginex USA LLC, was netted against the shareholder loan between Diginex HK and Pelham Limited, another entity controlled by Miles Pelham. In addition, Diginex HK agreed to fund the business for six months post the sale at a 25% discount to the projected costs.
Diginex Services Limited Acquisition
On September 20, 2021, Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited acquired Diginex Services Limited, a company incorporated in the United Kingdom and controlled by Rhino Ventures Limited for no cash payment. Prior to the acquisition Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited had been funding Diginex Services Limited for, primarily, the provision of IT maintenance and development services.
Rhino Ventures Loan
Rhino Ventures Limited advanced a loan to Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited. At 31 March 2024 the outstanding balance was $1.6 million (31 March 2023: $2.3 million) and charged interest of 8% per annum. Post 31 March 2024, Rhino Ventures Limited continued to fund DSL via the loan agreement and on 28 May 2024 converted $1.9 million into equity as part consideration for an $8.0 million capital raise. As part of the raise, Rhino Ventures had advanced an interest free $5.3 million as at 31 March 2024 with total cash consideration of the raise being $6.1 million.
Diginex Limited and Rhino Ventures Limited have agreed that Rhino Ventures Limited shall convert up to $3 million of its loan to DSL into Ordinary Shares upon the pricing of this Offering at the IPO offering price. Based on the assumed offering price of $5.00 per share, upon the pricing of the Offering, Rhino Ventures Limited’s loan, assuming loan balance of $3 million, will convert into 600,000 Ordinary Shares. In exchange for Rhino Ventures Limited conversion of its loan into Ordinary Shares, Diginex Limited has agreed to provide Rhino Ventures Limited registration rights with respect to the Ordinary Shares that Rhino Ventures Limited receives upon conversion of the loan. The conversion of the RVL loan is in addition to the conversion of the RVL convertible loan note with a principal value of $517,535. This agreement between Diginex Limited and Rhino Ventures Limited has not yet been reduced to writing.
Diginex Holdings Loan
On June 28, 2022 Diginex Holdings Limited, a company controlled by Rhino Ventures Limited advanced a loan of $1 million to Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited, bearing an 8% interest coupon. The loan remained outstanding at $1 million but as part of the Restructure, this loan was transferred into a $1 million convertible loan note of which Rhino Ventures Limited holds $517,535 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note and Working Capital Innovation Fund II L.P. holds $482,465 of the principal amount.
Convertible Loan Notes
Between August 2022 and July 2023 DSL raised $3.35 million through the issuance of Convertible Loan Notes to existing DSL shareholders. The Convertible Loan Notes mature on the second anniversary of the effective date, bear an 8% coupon and convert into Ordinary Shares into equity upon the Company becoming publicly listed. In the year ended 31 March 2024, Working Capital Innovation Fund II LP invested a further $100k and as part of the Restructuring, a $1 million loan due from DSL to a related company, Diginex Holdings Limited, was transferred into a $1 million convertible loan note of which Rhino Ventures Limited holds $517,535 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note and Working Capital Innovation Fund II L.P. holds $482,465 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note. The terms of the new convertible loan notes also charge interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. On August 3, 2024 a Convertible Loan Note issued to HBM IV, Inc for US$1.0 million had the maturity date extended from August 3, 2024 to November 3, 2024. The purchasers of Convertible Loan Notes included certain holders of more than 5% of the Company’s capital stock and certain directors or their respective affiliates. The following table sets forth the Convertible Loan Notes issued to these related parties:
Stockholder | Principal Amount of Convertible Loan Notes | |||
HBM IV, Inc. | $ | 2,000,000 | ||
Nalimz Holdings Limited | $ | 1,000,000 | ||
Rhino Ventures Limited | $ | 517,535 |
Miles Pelham compensation
During the years ended March 31, 2023 and 2024, Miles Pelham, the owner of Rhino Ventures Limited was paid $250,000 per annum for the provision of management services to the Group. This amount is included in the aggregate compensation of approximately $1.5 million amount set forth in the section “Compensation – Executive Officer and Director Compensation.” For the four months ended July 31, 2024, Miles Pelham was paid $83,333 for the provision of management services to the Group.
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Related Party Revenue
During the years ended March 31, 2023 and 2024, DSL provided commercial services to certain shareholders. During the period, DSL engaged with Sustainable Fitch Limited, a related party with HBM IV, Inc. and Hafnia SG Pte. Ltd earning $56,000 in the year ended March 31, 2024 (March 31, 2023: $234,500) and $10,977 during the year ended March 31, 2024 (March 31, 2023: $147,604) respectively. For the four months ended July 31, 2024, the Group provided commercial services to certain shareholders and generated revenues of $14,124.
Restructuring
Diginex Limited is a Cayman Islands exempted company, incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands on January 26, 2024. Upon incorporation, one (1) ordinary share of Diginex Limited was issued to Rhino Ventures Limited, a shareholder of DSL. On July 15, 2024, Diginex Limited and Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited (“DSL”) completed a restructuring pursuant to a share exchange agreement (the “Share Exchange Agreement”), whereby the then existing shareholders of DSL (the “Original Shareholders”) transferred all of their shares in DSL to Diginex Limited, in consideration for Diginex Limited’s issuance of substantially the same securities to such shareholders in exchange for the securities of DSL held by Original Shareholders (the “Exchange”). Prior to the Exchange there were 16,756 ordinary shares of DSL issued and outstanding, 3,151 preferred shares of DSL issued and outstanding and 10,172 warrants of DSL issued and outstanding. In the Exchange, each of the securities of DSL were exchanged for substantially the same securities of Diginex Limited at an exchange ratio of one (1) ordinary share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited , one (1) preferred share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Preferred Shares of Diginex Limited and one (1) warrant of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) warrants of Diginex Limited.
SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE
Prior to this Offering, there was no public market for Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares, and while we have applied to list our Ordinary Shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market, we cannot assure you that an active trading market for our Ordinary Shares will develop. All of the Ordinary Shares sold in this Offering will be freely transferable by persons other than our “affiliates” without restriction or further registration under the Securities Act. Sales of substantial amounts of our Ordinary Shares in the public market could have a material adverse effect on the prevailing market prices of our Ordinary Shares. Future sales of substantial amounts of our Ordinary Shares in the public market could adversely affect prevailing market prices of our Ordinary Shares from time to time and could impair our ability to raise equity capital in the future.
Upon the closing of this Offering, Diginex Limited will have 23,192,950 Ordinary Shares issued and outstanding. In addition, Diginex Limited will have 41,945 vested but not yet exercised options issued to employees and contractors, 368,826 unvested employee share options and unvested employee share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.7% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting. Diginex Limited will also have warrants outstanding.
Lock-up agreements
For further details on the lock-up agreements, see the section entitled “Underwriting– Lock Up Agreements.”
The Selling Shareholders, with respect to their Ordinary Shares sold pursuant to the Resale Prospectus in this Offering, has not entered into Lock-up Agreements. See “Risk Factor — The future sales of Ordinary Shares by existing shareholders, including the sales pursuant to this prospectus, may adversely affect the market price of our Ordinary Shares.”
Rule 144
In general, under Rule 144 as currently in effect, a person who has beneficially owned our “restricted securities” within the meaning of Rule144 for at least six months is entitled to sell the restricted securities without registration under the Securities Act, subject to certain restrictions. Persons who are our affiliates may sell within any three-month period a number of restricted securities that does not exceed the greater of the following:
1% of the number of shares of Ordinary Shares then outstanding, which will equal approximately 231,930 Ordinary Shares based on the number of Ordinary Shares outstanding immediately after the consummation of this Offering, assuming the underwriters do not exercise their over-allotment option, or the average weekly trading volume of our Ordinary Shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market during the four calendar weeks preceding the date on which notice of the sale is filed with the SEC.
Sales under Rule 144 by persons who are deemed our affiliates are subject to manner-of-sale provisions, notice requirements and the availability of current public information about us. Persons who are not our affiliates and have beneficially owned our restricted securities for more than six months but not more than one year may sell the restricted securities without registration under the Securities Act, subject to the availability of current public information about us. Persons who are not our affiliates and have beneficially owned our restricted securities for more than one year may freely sell the restricted securities without registration under the Securities Act.
In addition, in each case, any shares that are subject to lock-up arrangements would only become eligible for sale when the lock-up period expires.
U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations
The following discussion is a summary of U.S. federal income tax considerations generally applicable to U.S. Holders (as defined below) of the ownership and disposition of our Ordinary Shares. This summary applies only to U.S. Holders that hold our Ordinary Shares as capital assets (generally, property held for investment) and that have the U.S. dollar as their functional currency. This summary is based on U.S. tax laws in effect as of the date of this prospectus, on U.S. Treasury regulations in effect or, in some cases, proposed as of the date of this prospectus, and judicial and administrative interpretations thereof available on or before such date. All of the foregoing authorities are subject to change, which could apply retroactively and could affect the tax consequences described below. No ruling has been sought from the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) with respect to any U.S. federal income tax considerations described below, and there can be no assurance that the IRS or a court will not take a contrary position.
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This summary does not address the Medicare tax on certain investment income, U.S. federal estate, gift, backup withholding, and alternative minimum tax considerations, or any state, local, and non-U.S. tax considerations, relating to the ownership and disposition of our Ordinary Shares. The following summary does not address all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be important to particular investors in light of their individual circumstances or to persons in special tax situations such as:
● | financial institutions or financial services entities; | |
● | underwriters; | |
● | insurance companies; | |
● | pension plans; | |
● | cooperatives; | |
● | regulated investment companies; | |
● | real estate investment trusts; | |
● | grantor trusts; | |
● | broker-dealers; | |
● | traders that elect to use a mark-to-market method of accounting; | |
● | governments or agencies or instrumentalities thereof; | |
● | certain former U.S. citizens or long-term residents; | |
● | tax-exempt entities (including private foundations); | |
● | persons liable for alternative minimum tax; | |
● | persons holding stock as part of a straddle, hedging, conversion or other integrated transaction; | |
● | persons whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar; | |
● | passive foreign investment companies; | |
● | controlled foreign corporations; | |
● | persons that actually or constructively own 5% or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of our voting stock; | |
● | partnerships or other entities taxable as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes, or persons holding Ordinary Shares through such entities | |
● | the Company’s officers or directors; or | |
● | holders who are not U.S. Holders. |
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For purposes of this discussion, a “U.S. Holder” is a beneficial owner of our Ordinary Shares that is, for U.S. federal income tax purposes:
● | an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States; | |
● | a corporation (or other entity taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) created or organized in the United States or under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia; | |
● | an estate, the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or | |
● | a trust that (1) is subject to the primary supervision of a court within the United States and the control of one or more U.S. persons for all substantial decisions, or (2) has a valid election in effect under applicable U.S. Treasury regulations to be treated as a U.S. person. |
If a partnership (or other entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) is a beneficial owner of our Ordinary Shares, the tax treatment of a partner in the partnership will generally depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Partnerships holding our Ordinary Shares and their partners are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding an investment in our Ordinary Shares.
Persons considering an investment in our Ordinary Shares should consult their own tax advisors as to the particular tax consequences applicable to them relating to the purchase, ownership and disposition of our Ordinary Shares including the applicability of U.S. federal, state and local tax laws and non-U.S. tax laws.
Taxation of Dividends and Other Distributions on Our Ordinary Shares
Subject to the PFIC rules discussed below, a U.S. Holder generally will be required to include in gross income, in accordance with such U.S. Holder’s method of accounting for United States federal income tax purposes, as dividends the amount of any distribution paid on the Ordinary Shares to the extent the distribution is paid out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits (as determined under United States federal income tax principles). Such dividends paid by us will be taxable to a corporate U.S. Holder as dividend income and will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction generally allowed to domestic corporations in respect of dividends received from other domestic corporations. Dividends received by certain non-corporate U.S. Holders (including individuals) may be “qualified dividend income,” which is taxed at the lower capital gains rate, provided that our Ordinary Shares are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States and the U.S. Holder satisfies certain holding periods and other requirements. In this regard, shares generally are considered to be readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States if they are listed on Nasdaq, as our Ordinary Shares are expected to be.
Distributions in excess of such earnings and profits generally will be applied against and reduce the U.S. Holder’s basis in its Ordinary Shares (but not below zero) and, to the extent in excess of such basis, will be treated as gain from the sale or exchange of such Ordinary Shares. In the event that we do not maintain calculations of our earnings and profits under United States federal income tax principles, a U.S. Holder should expect that all cash distributions will be reported as dividends for United States federal income tax purposes. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the availability of the lower rate for any cash dividends paid with respect to our Ordinary Shares.
Dividends will generally be treated as income from foreign sources for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes and will generally constitute passive category income. Depending on the U.S. Holder’s individual facts and circumstances, a U.S. Holder may be eligible, subject to a number of complex limitations, to claim a foreign tax credit not in excess of any applicable treaty rate in respect of any foreign withholding taxes imposed on dividends received on our Ordinary Shares. A U.S. Holder who does not elect to claim a foreign tax credit for foreign tax withheld may instead claim a deduction, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, in respect of such withholding, but only for a year in which such U.S. Holder elects to do so for all creditable foreign income taxes. The rules governing the foreign tax credit are complex and their outcome depends in large part on the U.S. Holder’s individual facts and circumstances. Accordingly, U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the availability of the foreign tax credit under their particular circumstances.
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Taxation of Sale or Other Disposition of Ordinary Shares
Subject to the discussion below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules,” a U.S. Holder will generally recognize capital gain or loss upon the sale or other disposition of Ordinary Shares in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized upon the disposition and the U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in such Ordinary Shares. Any capital gain or loss will be long term if the Ordinary Shares have been held for more than one year and will generally be U.S.-source gain or loss for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes. Long-term capital gains of non-corporate taxpayers are currently eligible for reduced rates of taxation. The deductibility of a capital loss may be subject to limitations. U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the tax consequences if a foreign tax is imposed on a disposition of our Ordinary Shares, including the availability of the foreign tax credit under their particular circumstances.
Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules
A non-U.S. corporation, such as our company, will be classified as a PFIC, for U.S. federal income tax purposes for any taxable year, if either (i) 75% or more of its gross income for such year consists of certain types of “passive” income or (ii) 50% or more of the value of its assets (determined on the basis of a quarterly average) during such year is attributable to assets that produce or are held for the production of passive income. For this purpose, cash and cash equivalents are categorized as passive assets and the company’s goodwill and other unbooked intangibles are taken into account as non-passive assets. Passive income generally includes, among other things, dividends, interest, rents, royalties, and gains from the disposition of passive assets. We will be treated as owning a proportionate share of the assets and earning a proportionate share of the income of any other corporation in which we own, directly or indirectly, more than 25% (by value) of the stock.
No assurance can be given as to whether we may be or may become a PFIC, as this is a factual determination made annually that will depend, in part, upon the composition of our income and assets. Furthermore, the composition of our income and assets may also be affected by how, and how quickly, we use our liquid assets and the cash raised in this Offering. Under circumstances where our revenue from activities that produce passive income significantly increase relative to our revenue from activities that produce non-passive income, or where we determine not to deploy significant amounts of cash for active purposes, our risk of becoming classified as a PFIC may substantially increase. In addition, because there are uncertainties in the application of the relevant rules, it is possible that the Internal Revenue Service may challenge our classification of certain income and assets as non-passive or our valuation of our tangible and intangible assets, each of which may result in our becoming a PFIC for the current or subsequent taxable years. If we were classified as a PFIC for any year during which a U.S. Holder held our Ordinary Shares, we generally would continue to be treated as a PFIC for all succeeding years during which such U.S. Holder held our Ordinary Shares even if we cease to be a PFIC in subsequent years, unless certain elections are made. Our U.S. counsel expresses no opinion with respect to our PFIC status for any taxable year.
If we are classified as a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. Holder holds our Ordinary Shares, and unless the U.S. Holder makes a mark-to-market election (as described below), the U.S. Holder will generally be subject to special tax rules that have a penalizing effect, regardless of whether we remain a PFIC, on (i) any excess distribution that we make to the U.S. Holder (which generally means any distribution paid during a taxable year to a U.S. Holder that is greater than 125 percent of the average annual distributions paid in the three preceding taxable years or, if shorter, the U.S. Holder’s holding period for the Ordinary Shares), and (ii) any gain realized on the sale or other disposition of Ordinary Shares. Under these rules,
● | the U.S. Holder’s gain or excess distribution will be allocated ratably over the U.S. Holder’s holding period for the Ordinary Shares; | |
● | the amount allocated to the current taxable year and any taxable years in the U.S. Holder’s holding period prior to the first taxable year in which we are classified as a PFIC (each, a “pre-PFIC year”), will be taxable as ordinary income; | |
● | the amount allocated to each prior taxable year, other than a pre-PFIC year, will be subject to tax at the highest tax rate in effect for individuals or corporations, as appropriate, for that year; and |
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● | an additional tax equal to the interest charge generally applicable to underpayments of tax will be imposed in respect of the tax attributable to each prior taxable year, other than a pre-PFIC year, of the U.S. Holder. |
If we are treated as a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. Holder holds our Ordinary Shares, or if any of our subsidiaries is also a PFIC, such U.S. Holder would be treated as owning a proportionate amount (by value) of the shares of any lower-tier PFICs for purposes of the application of these rules. U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the application of the PFIC rules to any of our subsidiaries.
As an alternative to the foregoing rules, a U.S. Holder of “marketable stock” in a PFIC may make a mark-to-market election with respect to such stock, provided that such stock is “regularly traded” within the meaning of applicable U.S. Treasury regulations. If our Ordinary Shares qualify as being regularly traded, and an election is made, the U.S. Holder will generally (i) include as ordinary income for each taxable year that we are a PFIC the excess, if any, of the fair market value of Ordinary Shares held at the end of the taxable year over the adjusted tax basis of such Ordinary Shares and (ii) deduct as an ordinary loss the excess, if any, of the adjusted tax basis of the Ordinary Shares over the fair market value of such Ordinary Shares held at the end of the taxable year, but such deduction will only be allowed to the extent of the amount previously included in income as a result of the mark-to-market election. The U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in the Ordinary Shares would be adjusted to reflect any income or loss resulting from the mark-to-market election. If a U.S. Holder makes a mark-to-market election in respect of a corporation classified as a PFIC and such corporation ceases to be classified as a PFIC, the U.S. Holder will not be required to take into account the gain or loss described above during any period that such corporation is not classified as a PFIC. If a U.S. Holder makes a mark-to-market election, any gain such U.S. Holder recognizes upon the sale or other disposition of our Ordinary Shares in a year when we are a PFIC will be treated as ordinary income and any loss will be treated as ordinary loss, but such loss will only be treated as ordinary loss to the extent of the net amount previously included in income as a result of the mark-to-market election.
Because a mark-to-market election cannot be made for any lower-tier PFICs that we may own, a U.S. Holder may continue to be subject to the PFIC rules with respect to such U.S. Holder’s indirect interest in any investments held by us that are treated as an equity interest in a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Furthermore, as an alternative to the foregoing rules, a U.S. Holder that owns stock of a PFIC generally may make a “qualified electing fund” election regarding such corporation to elect out of the PFIC rules described above regarding excess distributions and recognized gains. However, we do not intend to provide information necessary for U.S. Holders to make qualified electing fund elections which, if available, would result in tax treatment different from the general tax treatment for PFICs described above.
If a U.S. Holder owns our Ordinary Shares during any taxable year that we are a PFIC, the U.S. Holder must generally file an annual Internal Revenue Service Form 8621 and provide such other information as may be required by the U.S. Treasury Department, whether or not a mark-to-market election is or has been made. If we are or become a PFIC, you should consult your tax advisor regarding any reporting requirements that may apply to you.
You should consult your tax advisors regarding how the PFIC rules apply to your investment in our Ordinary Shares.
Information Reporting and Backup Withholding
Certain U.S. Holders are required to report information to the Internal Revenue Service relating to an interest in “specified foreign financial assets,” including shares issued by a non-United States corporation, for any year in which the aggregate value of all specified foreign financial assets exceeds $50,000 (or a higher dollar amount prescribed by the Internal Revenue Service), subject to certain exceptions (including an exception for shares held in custodial accounts maintained with a U.S. financial institution). These rules also impose penalties if a U.S. Holder is required to submit such information to the Internal Revenue Service and fails to do so.
In addition, dividend payments with respect to our Ordinary Shares and proceeds from the sale, exchange or redemption of our Ordinary Shares may be subject to additional information reporting to the IRS and possible U.S. backup withholding. Backup withholding will not apply, however, to a U.S. Holder who furnishes a correct taxpayer identification number and makes any other required certification on IRS Form W-9 or who is otherwise exempt from backup withholding. U.S. Holders who are required to establish their exempt status generally must provide such certification on IRS Form W-9. U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the application of the U.S. information reporting and backup withholding rules.
Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Amounts withheld as backup withholding may be credited against your U.S. federal income tax liability, and you may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules by filing the appropriate claim for refund with the IRS and furnishing any required information. We do not intend to withhold taxes for individual shareholders. However, transactions effected through certain brokers or other intermediaries may be subject to withholding taxes (including backup withholding), and such brokers or intermediaries may be required by law to withhold such taxes.
EACH PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR SHOULD CONSULT ITS OWN TAX ADVISOR REGARDING THE PARTICULAR U.S. FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL AND NON-U.S. TAX CONSEQUENCES OF PURCHASING, HOLDING AND DISPOSING OF OUR ORDINARY SHARES, INCLUDING THE CONSEQUENCES OF ANY PROPOSED CHANGE IN APPLICABLE LAWS.
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Cayman Islands Tax Considerations
The Cayman Islands currently levies no taxes on individuals or corporations based upon profits, income, gains or appreciations and there is no taxation in the nature of inheritance tax or estate duty. There are no other taxes likely to be material to us or holders levied by the Government of the Cayman Islands except for stamp duties which may be applicable on instruments executed in, or, after execution, brought within the jurisdiction of the Cayman Islands. No stamp duty is payable in the Cayman Islands on transfers of shares of Cayman Islands companies except those which hold interests in land in the Cayman Islands. The Cayman Islands is a party to a double tax treaty entered with the United Kingdom in 2010 but is otherwise not a party to any double tax treaties that are applicable to any payments made to or by our Company. There are no exchange control regulations or currency restrictions in the Cayman Islands.
Payments of dividends and capital in respect of the Ordinary Shares will not be subject to taxation in the Cayman Islands and no withholding will be required on the payment of a dividend or capital to any holder of the Ordinary Shares, nor will gains derived from the disposal of the Ordinary Shares be subject to Cayman Islands income or corporation tax.
The Cayman Islands enacted the International Tax Co-operation (Economic Substance) Act (As Revised) together with the Guidance Notes published by the Cayman Islands Tax Information Authority from time to time. The Company is required to comply with the economic substance requirements from July 1, 2019 and make an annual report in the Cayman Islands as to whether or not it is carrying on any relevant activities and if it is, it must satisfy an economic substance test.
Subject to the terms and conditions of the underwriting agreement entered into by and between the Company and Dominari Securities LLC, acting as the representative of the underwriters named below (the “Representative”), the underwriters have severally agreed to purchase from us, and the Company has agreed to sell to them, severally, on a firm commitment basis the following respective number of Ordinary Shares at the public price less the underwriting discounts set forth on the cover page of this prospectus:
Underwriter | Number
of Ordinary Shares | |||
Dominari Securities, LLC | [__] | |||
Revere Securities, LLC | [__] | |||
Total | [__] |
The underwriters and the Representative are collectively referred to as the “underwriters” and the Representative, respectively. The underwriters are obligated severally, but not jointly, to purchase all the Ordinary Shares offered by us if any Ordinary Shares are purchased, other than those shares covered by the over-allotment option described below. The underwriting agreement also provides that if an underwriter defaults, the purchase commitments of non-defaulting underwriters may also be increased or the Offering may be terminated. The underwriters are offering the Ordinary Shares subject to their acceptance of the Ordinary Shares from us and subject to prior sale. The underwriting agreement provides that the obligations of the several underwriters to pay for and accept delivery of the Ordinary Shares offered by this prospectus are subject to satisfactory completion of due diligence examination of the Company by the Representative, the approval of certain legal matters by their counsel and to certain other conditions.
All sales of Ordinary Shares in the United States will be made through United States registered broker-dealers. Sales of Ordinary Shares made outside the United States may be made by affiliates or selling agents of the underwriters.
Over-Allotment Option
We have granted to the underwriters an option, exercise for 45 days after the closing of this Offering, to purchase up to 15% additional Ordinary Shares at the initial public offering price listed on the cover page of this prospectus, less underwriting discounts. The underwriters may exercise this option solely for the purpose of cover over-allotments, if any, made in connection with the Offering contemplated by this prospectus. To the extent the option is exercised, each underwriter will become obligated, subject to certain conditions, to purchase about the same percentage of the additional Ordinary Shares as the number listed next to the underwriter’s name in the preceding table bears to the total number of Ordinary Shares listed next to the name of the underwriter in the preceding table.
Discounts, Commissions and Expenses
We have agreed to pay the underwriters a cash fee equal to six and half percent (6.5%) of the aggregate gross proceeds raised in this Offering. The following table shows the price per share and total public offering price, underwriting discounts, and proceeds before expenses to us. The total amounts are shown assuming both no exercise and full exercise of the over-allotment option.
102 |
Per Share | Total
Without Exercise of Over-Allotment Option | Total
With Full Exercise of Over-Allotment Option | ||||||||||
Initial public offering price | $ | 5.00 | $ | 11,250,00 | $ | 12,937,500 | ||||||
Underwriting discounts and commissions to be paid by us(1) | $ | 0.325 | $ | 731,250 | $ | 840,938 | ||||||
Proceeds, before expenses, to us | $ | 4.675 | $ | 10,518,750 | $ | 12,096,562 |
(1) | Does not include accountable and non-accountable expenses discussed below. |
We have agreed to reimburse the underwriters up to $250,000 for out-of-pocket accountable expenses, including, but not limited to travel, due diligence expenses, reasonable fees and expenses of its legal counsel, roadshow and background check. We paid an advanced expense deposit of $50,000 to the underwriters for its anticipated out-of-pocket expenses. The advance will be returned to the Company to the extent such out-of-pocket accountable expenses are not actually incurred or are less than the advance in accordance with FINRA Rule 5110(g).
We have also agreed to pay the underwriters a non-accountable expense, equal to one percent (1%) of the gross proceeds received by us from the sale of our Ordinary Shares, including shares sold pursuant to the exercise of the over-allotment option.
In addition, we have agreed to pay the underwriters an advisory fee of $50,000 in connection with the offering. The $50,000 advisory fee was paid upon execution of our engagement letter with the underwriters. The advances made in connection with such fee comply with FINRA Rule 5110(g)(4)(B).
Right of First Refusal
We have granted the underwriters a right of first refusal, for a period of twelve (12) months from the closing of the Offering, to (a) act as lead or joint-lead manager for any underwritten public offering (b) act as lead or joint book-runner and/or lead or joint placement agent, initial purchaser in connection with any private offering of securities of the Company; and (c) act as financial advisor in connection with any sale or other transfer by the Company, directly or indirectly, of a majority or controlling portion of its capital stock or assets to another entity, any purchase or other transfer by another entity, directly or indirectly, of a majority or controlling portion of the capital stock or assets of the Company, and any merger or consolidation of the Company with another entity. Such right of first refusal granted to the underwriters in the Offering is subject to and provided in conjunction with the right of first refusal the Company provided to Chardan Capital Markets, LLC, pursuant to a written agreement, dated July 8, 2024, to act as joint lead underwriter or joint book-running manager or co-lead placement agent for each and every future public and private equity and public debt offerings of the Company, or any successor to or any subsidiary of the Company (each, a “Subject Transaction”) during the twelve (12) month period immediately following the closing of the Offering with not less than 50% of the economics paid to the full underwriting or placement agent group for any two-handed Subject Transaction and, in cases where there are three or more underwriters or placement agents in a Subject Transaction, Chardan shall be entitled to receive as its compensation no less than thirty percent (30%) of the compensation payable to the full underwriting or placement agent group for that Subject Transaction.
Lock-Up Agreements
We have agreed, for a period of three (3) months from the closing of this Offering, that we will not offer, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase, lend, or otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or indirectly, any shares of the Company or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for shares of the Company, except the issuance by the Company of Ordinary Shares with respect to (i) up to 600,000 Ordinary Shares to be received from Rhino Ventures Limited’s conversion of a loan in an amount of up to $3 million held by Diginex Limited at closing of the IPO, (ii) RVL Warrants, and (iii) 4,170,520 warrants of Diginex Limited held by RVL, where the issuance descried in clause (iii) will be subject to the restrictions described above in this paragraph for a period of ninety (90) days from the closing of this Offering.
Each of our directors and officers and shareholders as of the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part have agreed or are otherwise contractually restricted for a period of twelve (12) months after the closing of this Offering, not to (i) offer, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase, lend, or otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or indirectly, any shares of the Company or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for shares of the Company; or (ii) enter into any swap or other arrangement that transfers to another, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of capital shares of our Company whether any such transaction described above is to be settled by delivery of shares or such other securities, in cash or otherwise. Notwithstanding, these restrictions do not apply to the Selling Shareholders with respect to 2,992,180 Ordinary Shares held by them, and RVL with respect to (i) up to 600,000 Ordinary Shares to be received from Rhino Ventures Limited’s conversion of a loan in an amount of up to $3 million held by Diginex Limited at closing of the IPO, (ii) RVL Warrants, and (iii) 4,170,520 warrants of Diginex Limited held by RVL, except that the securities descried in clause (iii) will be subject to the restrictions described above in this paragraph for a period of ninety (90) days from the closing of this Offering.
There are no existing agreements between the underwriters and any person who will execute a lock-up agreement in connection with this Offering providing consent to the sale of shares prior to the expiration of the lock-up period.
Prior to this Offering, there has been no public market for our Ordinary Shares. Consequently, the initial public offering price for our Ordinary Shares will be determined by negotiations among us and the Representative. Among the factors to be considered in determining the initial public offering price are our results of operations, our current financial condition, our future prospects, our markets, the economic conditions in and future prospects for the industry in which we compete, our management and currently prevailing general conditions in the equity securities markets, including current market valuations of publicly traded companies considered comparable to our company. Neither we nor the underwriters can assure investors that an active trading market will develop for Ordinary Shares, or that our Ordinary Shares will trade in the public market at or above the initial public offering price.
We plan to submit an application to have our Ordinary Shares approved for listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “DGNX.”
103 |
Indemnification
We have agreed to indemnify Dominari, Revere and its affiliates against certain liabilities, including certain liabilities under the Securities Act. If we are unable to provide this indemnification, we have agreed to contribute to payments the underwriters may be required to make in respect of those liabilities.
Electronic Offer, Sale and Distribution of Ordinary Share
A prospectus in electronic format may be delivered to potential investors by the underwriters. The prospectus in electronic format will be identical to the paper version of such prospectus. Other than the prospectus in electronic format, the information on the underwriters’ website and any information contained in any other website maintained by the Underwriter is not part of the prospectus or the registration statement of which this Prospectus forms a part.
Stabilization, Short Positions and Penalty Bids
In connection with the Offering the underwriters may engage in transactions that stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the price of the Ordinary Shares in accordance with Regulation M under the Exchange Act.
● | Stabilizing transactions permit the underwriters to make bids or purchases for the purpose of pegging, fixing or maintaining the price of the Ordinary Shares, so long as the stabilizing bids do not exceed a specified maximum. |
● | Over-allotment involves sales by the underwriters of the Ordinary Share in excess of the number of shares the underwriters are obligated to purchase, which creates a syndicate short position. The short position may be either a covered short position or a naked short position. In a covered short position, the number of shares over-allotted by the underwriters is not greater than the number of shares that they may purchase in the over-allotment option. In a naked short position, the number of shares involved is greater than the number of shares in the over-allotment option. The underwriters may close out any covered short position by either exercising their over-allotment option and/or purchasing shares in the open market. |
● | Syndicate covering transactions involve purchases of shares in the open market after the distribution has been completed in order to cover syndicate short positions. In determining the source of shares to close out the short position, the underwriters will consider, among other things, the price of our Ordinary Share available for purchase in the open market as compared to the price at which they may purchase shares through the over-allotment option. If the underwriters sell more shares than could be covered by the over-allotment option, a naked short position, the position can only be closed out by buying shares in the open market. A naked short position is more likely to be created if the underwriters are concerned that there could be downward pressure on the price of the shares in the open market after pricing that could adversely affect investors who purchase in the Offering. |
● | Penalty bids permit the underwriters to reclaim a selling concession from a syndicate member when the Ordinary Share originally sold by the syndicate member is purchased in a stabilizing or syndicate covering transaction to cover syndicate short positions. |
● | In passive market making, market makers in the shares who are the underwriters or prospective underwriter may, subject to limitations, make bids for or purchases of our Ordinary Share until the time, if any, at which a stabilizing bid is made. |
These stabilizing transactions, syndicate covering transactions and penalty bids may have the effect of raising or maintaining the market price of the Ordinary Shares or preventing or retarding a decline in the market price of Ordinary Shares. As a result, the price of Ordinary Shares may be higher than the price that might otherwise exist in the open market. These transactions may be effected on the Nasdaq or otherwise, and, if commenced, may be discontinued at any time.
Pricing of the Offering
Prior to this Offering, there has been no public market for the Ordinary Shares. The initial public offering price was determined by negotiations between us and the Representative. Among the factors considered in determining the initial public offering price were our future prospects and those of our industry in general, our sales, earnings and certain other financial and operating information in recent periods, and the price-earnings ratios, price-sales ratios, market prices of securities, and certain financial and operating information of companies engaged in activities similar to ours.
104 |
Relationships
The underwriters and their respective affiliates are full service financial institutions engaged in various activities, which may include the sales and trading of securities, commercial and investment banking, advisory, investment management, investment research, principal investment, hedging, market making, financing, brokerage and other financial and non-financial activities and services. The underwriters and their respective affiliates may have, from time to time, performed, and may in the future perform, a variety of such activities and services for us and for persons or entities with relationships with us for which they received or will receive customary fees, commissions and expenses.
In the ordinary course of their various business activities, the underwriters and their respective affiliates, directors, officers and employees may at any time purchase, sell or hold a broad array of investments, and actively traded securities, derivatives, loans, commodities, currencies, credit default swaps and other financial instruments for their own accounts and for the accounts of their customers. Such investment and trading activities may involve or relate to our assets, securities and/or instruments (directly, as collateral securing other obligations or otherwise) and/or persons and entities with relationships with us. The underwriters and their respective affiliates may also communicate independent investment recommendations, market color or trading ideas and/or publish or express independent research views in respect of such assets, securities or instruments. In addition, the underwriters and their respective affiliates may at any time hold, or recommend to clients that they should acquire, long and short positions in such assets, securities and instruments.
We have agreed to indemnify the underwriters against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribute to payments the underwriters may be required to make because of any of those liabilities.
Selling Restrictions
No action has been taken in any jurisdiction (except in the United States) that would permit a public offering of the Ordinary Shares, or the possession, circulation or distribution of this prospectus or any other material relating to us or the Ordinary Shares, where action for that purpose is required. Accordingly, the Ordinary Shares may not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, and neither this prospectus nor any other offering material or advertisements in connection with the Ordinary Shares may be distributed or published, in or from any country or jurisdiction except in compliance with any applicable rules and regulations of any such country or jurisdiction.
105 |
EXPENSES RELATED TO THE OFFERING
Set forth below is an itemization of the total expenses which are expected to be incurred by us in connection with the offer and sale of our Ordinary Shares by the Company. With the exception of the SEC registration fee, all amounts are estimates.
USD | ||||
SEC registration fee | $ | 4,941 | ||
Legal fees and expenses | 738,914 | |||
Accounting fees and expenses | 658,560 | |||
Advisory fees | 985,000 | |||
Printing expenses | 12,726 | |||
Miscellaneous expenses | 20,000 | |||
Total | $ | 2,420,141 |
Loeb & Loeb LLP is our U.S. and Hong Kong legal counsel. The validity of the Ordinary Shares and other certain matters as to Cayman Islands law has been passed upon for us by Ogier. Robinson & Cole LLP is acting as counsel to the underwriters.
The financial statements of Diginex Limited as of March 31, 2024, and 2023, and for the years then ended, included in this registration statement have been audited by UHY LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report thereon and included in this registration statement, in reliance upon such report and upon the authority of such firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
ENFORCEMENT OF CIVIL LIABILITIES
We are incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands as an exempted company with limited liability. We are incorporated in the Cayman Islands in order to enjoy the following benefits: (a) political and economic stability; (b) an effective judicial system; (c) a favorable tax system; (d) the absence of exchange control or currency restrictions; and (e) the availability of professional and support services. However, certain disadvantages accompany incorporation in the Cayman Islands. These disadvantages include:
● | the Cayman Islands has a less exhaustive body of securities laws than the United States and these securities laws provide significantly less protection to investors; and | |
● | Cayman Islands companies may not have standing to sue before the federal courts of the United States. |
Our constitutional documents do not contain provisions requiring that disputes, including those arising under the securities laws of the United States, among us, our officers, directors and shareholders, be arbitrated.
We have been advised by our Cayman Islands legal counsel that there is uncertainty as to whether the courts of the Cayman Islands would:
● | recognize or enforce against us judgments of courts of the United States based on certain civil liability provisions of U.S. securities laws; and | |
● | entertain original actions brought in each respective jurisdiction against us or our directors or officers predicated upon the securities laws of the United States or any state in the United States. |
There is no statutory enforcement in the Cayman Islands of judgments obtained in the United States, although the courts of the Cayman Islands will in certain circumstances recognize and enforce a foreign judgment, without any re-examination or re-litigation of matters adjudicated upon, provided such judgment:
(a) | is given by a foreign court of competent jurisdiction; | |
(b) | imposes on the judgment debtor a liability to pay a liquidated sum for which the judgment has been given; | |
(c) | is final; | |
(d) | is not in respect of taxes, a fine or a penalty; | |
(e) | was not obtained by fraud; and | |
(f) | is not of a kind the enforcement of which is contrary to natural justice or the public policy of the Cayman Islands. |
106 |
Subject to the above limitations, in appropriate circumstances, a Cayman Islands court may give effect in the Cayman Islands to other kinds of final foreign judgments such as declaratory orders, orders for performance of contracts and injunctions.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We have filed with the SEC a registration statement (including amendments and exhibits to the registration statement) on Form F-1 under the Securities Act. This prospectus, which is part of the registration statement, does not contain all of the information set forth in the registration statement and the exhibits and schedules to the registration statement. For further information, we refer you to the registration statement and the exhibits and schedules filed as part of the registration statement. If a document has been filed as an exhibit to the registration statement, we refer you to the copy of the document that has been filed. Each statement in this prospectus relating to a document filed as an exhibit is qualified in all respects by the filed exhibit.
We are subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act that are applicable to foreign private issuers. Accordingly, we are required to file or furnish reports and other information with the SEC. The SEC maintains an internet website at http://www.sec.gov, from which you can electronically access the registration statement and our other materials.
As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt under the Exchange Act from, among other things, the rules prescribing the furnishing and content of proxy statements, and our executive officers, directors and principal shareholders are exempt from the reporting and short-swing profit recovery provisions contained in Section 16 of the Exchange Act. In addition, we will not be required under the Exchange Act to file periodic reports and financial statements with the SEC as frequently or as promptly as U.S. companies whose securities are registered under the Exchange Act.
Our corporate website is https://www.diginex.com. The information contained on our website is not a part of this prospectus.
107 |
COmbined FINANCIAL STATEMENTS should
31 March 2024
F-1 |
Table of Contents
Combined financial statements as of and for the year ended 31 March 2024 | Pages | |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | F-3 | |
Combined Statements of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Loss | F-4 | |
Combined Statements of Financial Position | F-5 | |
Combined Statements of Changes in Equity (Deficit) | F-6 | |
Combined Statements of Cash Flows | F-7 | |
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements | F-8- F-42 |
F-2 |
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders
of Diginex Limited
Opinion
We have audited the accompanying combined financial statements of Diginex Limited (the “Company”), which comprise the combined statements of financial position as of March 31, 2024 and 2023, and the related combined statements of profit or loss and other comprehensive loss, changes in equity, and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes to the financial statements. In our opinion, the combined financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Diginex Limited as of March 31, 2024 and 2023, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.
Basis for Opinion
These combined financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s combined financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the combined financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the combined financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the combined financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the combined financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Emphasis of Matter – Going Concern
As discussed in Note 2 to the combined financial statements, the Company has incurred a net loss and experienced negative cash flows from operating activities for the year ended March 31, 2024 and has a working capital deficit as of March 31, 2024. The Company’s ability to continue as a going concern is dependent, in part, on receiving financial support from its founder, the Chairman of the Board of Directors, and a significant shareholder. Management’s evaluation of the events and conditions and management’s plans that mitigated these matters are described in Note 2 to these combined financial statements. Our opinion is not modified with respect to this matter.
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2023.
/s/ UHY LLP
New York, New York
September 9, 2024, except for Note 27 as to which the date is October 4, 2024
F-3 |
COMBINED STATEMENTS OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
For the years ended 31 March 2024
Year ended | Year ended | |||||||||
31 March 2024 | 31 March 2023 | |||||||||
Notes | USD | USD | ||||||||
Revenue | 5 | 1,299,538 | 1,625,763 | |||||||
General and administrative expenses | 6 | (9,363,345 | ) | (8,900,491 | ) | |||||
OPERATING LOSS | (8,063,807 | ) | (7,274,728 | ) | ||||||
Other income, gains or (losses) | 7 | 3,753,988 | (1,762,410 | ) | ||||||
Finance cost, net | 8 | (552,651 | ) | (220,460 | ) | |||||
LOSS BEFORE TAXATION | (4,862,470 | ) | (9,257,598 | ) | ||||||
Income tax expense | 9 | (8,917 | ) | - | ||||||
LOSS FOR THE YEAR | (4,871,387 | ) | (9,257,598 | ) | ||||||
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS | ||||||||||
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss: | ||||||||||
Exchange (loss) gain on translation of foreign operations | (7,684 | ) | 1,680 | |||||||
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE LOSS FOR THE YEAR | (4,879,071 | ) | (9,255,918 | ) | ||||||
LOSS PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE ORDINARY EQUITY HOLDERS OF THE COMPANY | ||||||||||
Basic loss per share | 10 | (0.51 | ) | (0.97 | ) | |||||
Diluted loss per share | 10 | (0.75 | ) | (0.97 | ) |
The above combined statements of profit or loss and other comprehensive loss should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
F-4 |
COMBINED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
At 31 March 2024
At 31 March 2024 | At 31 March 2023 | |||||||||
Notes | USD | USD | ||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||||
Right-of-use assets | 11 | 357,202 | - | |||||||
Rental deposit | 13 | 35,431 | - | |||||||
Plant and equipment | 12 | - | 3,696 | |||||||
Total non-current assets | 392,633 | 3,696 | ||||||||
Trade receivables, net | 13 | 182,334 | 289,788 | |||||||
Contract assets | 13 | 69,354 | 26,989 | |||||||
Other receivables, deposit and prepayment | 13 | 253,476 | 43,392 | |||||||
Due from a related company | 16 | - | 41,532 | |||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 76,620 | 1,183,176 | ||||||||
Total current assets | 581,784 | 1,584,877 | ||||||||
LIABILITIES | ||||||||||
Trade payables | 14 | (788,798 | ) | (187,584 | ) | |||||
Other payables and accruals | 14 | (596,870 | ) | (349,197 | ) | |||||
Tax payables | 9 | (8,917 | ) | - | ||||||
Deferred revenue | 15 | (322,826 | ) | (335,666 | ) | |||||
Due to a related company | 16 | (34,579 | ) | - | ||||||
Due to immediate holding company | 16 | (5,345,929 | ) | (506 | ) | |||||
Loans from immediate holding company | 16 | (1,930,993 | ) | (2,328,926 | ) | |||||
Loan from a related company | 16 | (1,140,931 | ) | - | ||||||
Lease liabilities | 19 | (122,076 | ) | - | ||||||
Convertible loan notes | 18 | (3,975,534 | ) | - | ||||||
Total current liabilities | (14,267,453 | ) | (3,201,879 | ) | ||||||
Loan from a related company | 16 | - | (1,060,712 | ) | ||||||
Lease liabilities | 19 | (243,280 | ) | - | ||||||
Preferred shares | 17 | (9,359,000 | ) | (13,460,000 | ) | |||||
Convertible loan notes | 18 | (114,808 | ) | (3,349,822 | ) | |||||
Total non-current liabilities | (9,717,088 | ) | (17,870,534 | ) | ||||||
Net current liabilities | (13,685,669 | ) | (1,617,002 | ) | ||||||
Net liabilities | (23,010,124 | ) | (19,483,840 | ) | ||||||
EQUITY (DEFICIT) | ||||||||||
Share Capital | 20 | 477 | 475 | |||||||
Capital reserve | 21 | 3,752,192 | 3,724,826 | |||||||
Exchange reserve | 21 | (1,681 | ) | 6,003 | ||||||
Share option reserve | 21 | 2,409,689 | 1,084,270 | |||||||
Accumulated losses | 21 | (29,170,801 | ) | (24,299,414 | ) | |||||
Total deficit | (23,010,124 | ) | (19,483,840 | ) |
The above combined statements of financial position should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
F-5 |
COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (DEFICIT)
For the years ended 31 March 2024 and 2023
Share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Share Capital | Capital | Exchange | option | Accumulated | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Notes | Shares | Amount | reserve | reserve | reserve | losses | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||
USD | USD | USD | USD | USD | USD | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at 1 April 2022 | 11,582 | 3,725,301 | - | 4,323 | 499,808 | (15,041,816 | ) | (10,812,384 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Loss for the year | - | - | - | - | - | (9,257,598 | ) | (9,257,598 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Exchange gain on translation of foreign operations | - | - | - | 1,680 | - | - | 1,680 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Total comprehensive loss for the year | - | - | - | 1,680 | - | (9,257,598 | ) | (9,255,918 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Share option awards | 23 | - | - | - | - | 584,462 | - | 584,462 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at 31 March 2023 pre-recapitalized | 11,582 | 3,725,301 | - | 6,003 | 1,084,270 | (24,299,414 | ) | (19,483,840 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Share exchange of DSL (1:410 exchange ratio) | 4,737,038 | (3,724,826 | ) | 3,724,826 | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Sub-total | 4,748,620 | 475 | 3,724,826 | 6,003 | 1,084,270 | (24,299,414 | ) | (19,483,840 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Share Subdivision | 4,748,620 | - | - | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at 31 March 2023 recapitalized | 9,497,240 | 475 | 3,724,826 | 6,003 | 1,084,270 | (24,299,414 | ) | (19,483,840 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at 1 April 2023 | 11,582 | 3,725,301 | - | 6,003 | 1,084,270 | (24,299,414 | ) | (19,483,840 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Loss for the year | - | - | - | - | - | (4,871,387 | ) | (4,871,387 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Exchange loss on translation of foreign operations | - | - | - | (7,684 | ) | - | - | (7,684 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total comprehensive loss for the year | - | - | - | (7,684 | ) | - | (4,871,387 | ) | (4,879,071 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Exercise of share option awards | 23 | 44 | 27,368 | - | - | (27,368 | ) | - | - | |||||||||||||||||||||
Share option awards | 23 | - | - | - | - | 1,352,787 | - | 1,352,787 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at 31 March 2024 pre-capitalized | 11,626 | 3,752,669 | - | (1,681 | ) | 2,409,689 | (29,170,801 | ) | (23,010,124 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Share exchange of DSL (1:410 exchange ratio) | 4,755,034 | (3,752,192 | ) | 3,752,192 | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Sub-total | 4,766,660 | 477 | 3,752,192 | (1,681 | ) | 2,409,689 | (29,170,801 | ) | (23,010,124 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Founding share of the Company | 1 | - | - | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Sub-total | 4,766,661 | 477 | 3,752,192 | (1,681 | ) | 2,409,689 | (29,170,801 | ) | (23,010,124 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Share Subdivision | 4,766,661 | - | - | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at 31 March 2024 recapitalized | 9,533,322 | 477 | 3,752,192 | (1,681 | ) | 2,409,689 | (29,170,801 | ) | (23,010,124 | ) |
The above combined statements of changes in equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
F-6 |
DIGINEX SOLUTIONS (HK) LIMITED
combined STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the years ended 31 March 2024
Year ended | Year ended | |||||||
31 March 2024 | 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES | ||||||||
Loss before taxation | (4,862,470 | ) | (9,257,598 | ) | ||||
Adjustments for: | ||||||||
Amortization – right-of-use assets | 99,580 | - | ||||||
Depreciation – plant and equipment | 3,696 | 1,007 | ||||||
Impairment losses (reversed) recognized in respect of trade receivables | (400 | ) | 5,032 | |||||
Write-off of due from a related company | 81,347 | - | ||||||
Bad debt written off | 21,522 | 14,752 | ||||||
Finance costs | 552,651 | 220,460 | ||||||
Share option awards | 1,352,835 | 587,821 | ||||||
Net fair value loss of convertible loan notes | 374,000 | 19,000 | ||||||
Net fair value (gain) loss of preferred shares | (4,101,000 | ) | 1,841,000 | |||||
Operating cash flows before movements in working capital | (6,478,239 | ) | (6,568,526 | ) | ||||
Movements in working capital: | ||||||||
Trade receivables | 86,332 | (43,726 | ) | |||||
Contract assets | (42,365 | ) | 42,158 | |||||
Other receivables, deposit, and prepayment | (210,936 | ) | 132,684 | |||||
Due from a related company | (39,815 | ) | (41,532 | ) | ||||
Trade and other payables | 841,155 | (131,331 | ) | |||||
Deferred revenue | (12,840 | ) | 18,955 | |||||
Net cash used in operating activities | (5,856,708 | ) | (6,591,318 | ) | ||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES | ||||||||
Proceeds from issuance of convertible loan notes | 100,000 | 3,250,000 | ||||||
Advances from immediate holding company | 5,345,423 | 600,000 | ||||||
Loans from immediate holding company | 564,483 | 2,250,000 | ||||||
Loan from a related company | - | 1,000,000 | ||||||
Repayment of lease liabilities | (109,754 | ) | - | |||||
Repayment of loans from immediate holding company | (1,150,000 | ) | (600,000 | ) | ||||
Net cash generated from financing activities | 4,750,152 | 6,500,000 | ||||||
NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS | (1,106,556 | ) | (91,318 | ) | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year | 1,183,176 | 1,274,494 | ||||||
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR | 76,620 | 1,183,176 |
Except as disclosed below, there were no other material non-cash investing and financing activities during the year end 31 March 2024 and 2023:
● | During the year ended 31 March 2024, the Group entered into a new lease agreement for the use of office space that expires on 1 July 2027. On the lease commencement, the Group recognized right-of-use assets and lease liabilities of $482,619 and $482,619, respectively. The deposit for the lease of $34,579 was paid by a related company and was included in the due to a related company. An additional deposit payment was made in February 2024 of $852 by the Company to take the total deposit to $35,431. The quarterly rent was adjusted and increased to 32,091 Euros ($34,905) from February 2024 with a corresponding lease modification adjustment of $25,837 recognized. | |
● | In October 2023, the Company issued 44 shares (36,080 shares after the Transaction and Share Subdivision) to an employee via the exercising of vested employee share options. |
The above combined statements of cash flows should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
F-7 |
NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the years ended 31 March 2024
1 COMPANY ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES
Diginex Limited (the “Company”) was incorporated on 26 January 2024 as an exempted company in the Cayman Islands with limited liability with its registered office at the office of Ogier Global (Cayman) Limited, 89 Nexus Way, Camana Bay, Grand Cayman, KY1-9099, Cayman Islands and principal place of business at Smart-Space Fintech 2, Room 3, Units 401-404, Core C, Cyberport 3, 3 Cyberport Road, Telegraph Bay, Hong Kong. The Company’s substantial shareholder is Rhino Ventures Limited (“Rhino Ventures”) which a limited company incorporated in the British Virgin Islands.
The Company is an investment holding company and the principal activities of Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited (“DSL”) and its subsidiaries (“DSL Group”) are the provision of Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”) reporting solution services, advisory services and developing customization solutions. The Company and DSL Group are collectively referred to as the “Group”.
These combined financial statements are presented in US dollars (“USD”), which is the same as the functional currency of the Company.
These combined financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024 were authorized for issue by the Board of Directors on 4 October 2024. The Company’s board of directors has the power to amend the combined financial statements after issue.
1.1 Summary of significant transactions
The Group incurred the following transaction that significantly affect the financial position and performance of the Group:
● | During the year ended 31 March 2024, the Group entered into a new lease agreement for the use of office space that expires on 1 July 2027. On the lease commencement, the Group recognized right-of-use assets and lease liabilities of $482,619 and $482,619, respectively. | |
● | During the year ended 31 March 2024, a Note with a face value of $100,000 was issued resulting in an aggregate face value of all Notes issued of $3,350,000 as of 31 March 2024. |
1.2 Group Reorganization
On 15 July 2024, the Company completed a Share Exchange Transaction (the “Transaction”) with DSL and each of the shareholders of DSL. Prior to the Transaction, the Company had issued one founding share with a par value of USD0.0001 and was a newly incorporated entity without material business activities, while DSL was the parent of the Diginex group of companies (“DSL Group”). The Transaction resulted in the Company becoming the immediate holding company of DSL Group and DSL became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. The Transaction resulted in one share in DSL being exchanged for four hundred and ten (410) shares in the Company.
On 26 July 2024, the authorized share capital of the Company changed to USD50,000 divided into 960,000,000 Ordinary Shares of USD0.00005 par value each and 40,000,000 Preferred Shares of USD0.00005 par value each (the “Share Subdivision”). The Share Subdivision resulted in the shareholding of each Company shareholder increasing by a multiple of two.
The financial statements of DSL Group were consolidated for the year ended 31 March 2024 and then combined with Diginex Limited from 26 January 2024. Upon incorporation of Diginex Limited on 26 January 2024, both Diginex Limited and DSL operated under the common control of Rhino Ventures Limited. It is due to this common control and the Transaction on 15 July 2024 that the financial statements of Diginex Limited have been presented on combined basis with the reserves being retrospectively adjusted to reflect the impact of the Transaction and Share Subdivision (collectively referred to as the “Recapitalization”) and the operating result of Diginex Limited being combined with those of DSL Group from 26 January 2024.
F-8 |
2 BASIS OF PREPARATION
These combined financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024 have been prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”) issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”).
2.1 Going concern basis of accounting
The combined financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which assumes that the Group will be able to meet its financial obligations, working capital requirements and capital expenditures as and when they fall due. Future cash flow projections have been analyzed to establish the cash requirements over the coming 12 months which highlight a need for the Group to raise additional capital and/or reduced expenses as necessary.
Since incorporation, the Group has incurred losses but has been able to fund itself via raising funds from investors, issuance of debt instruments and funding by way of shareholders’ loans. In May 2024, DSL completed an $8.0 million capital raise with its immediate holding company, Rhino Ventures, which was settled by advances of cash of $6.1 million and the conversion of loans from immediate holding company of $1.9 million. Upon the completion of the capital raise, DSL allotted 5,086 ordinary shares and 10,172 warrants to Rhino Venture. As of 31 March 2024, $5.3 million of cash had been received and is classified as due to immediate holding company and outstanding loans amounted to $1.9 million. DSL also has convertible loan notes and preferred shares, classified as liabilities on the combined statement of financial position, which will be mandatorily converted into equity upon the Form F-1 of the Company being declared effective. The founder of the Company has provided assurances that Rhino Ventures, a company controlled by the founder, will continue to support the Company via the shareholder’s loans for the earlier of the next 12 months from the date of these combined financial statements were issued or the date the Company’s planned registration statement on Form F-1 being declared effective and the consummation of the initial public offering and the related funding. In addition to the above options to raise capital, management also has the ability to control or reduce cash outflows by reducing the cost base of the Group.
Taking into account the ability for the Group to raise finances and management’s ability to control costs, management has alleviated the doubt about the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern.
2.2 Application of new and amendments to IFRSs
For the purpose of preparing the combined financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024, the Group has consistently applied the accounting policies which conform with IFRSs, which includes IFRSs, International Accounting Standards (“IAS”) and Interpretations (“IFRIC – Int”) issued by the IASB that are effective for the accounting period beginning on 1 April 2023, throughout the year.
In the current year, the Group has applied the following new and amendments to IFRSs issued by the IASB for the first time, which are mandatorily effective for the Group’s financial annual periods beginning on or after 1 April 2023 for the preparation of the combined financial statements:
● | IFRS 17 and the Related Amendments - Insurance Contracts |
● | Amendments to IAS 1 and IFRS Practice Statement 2 - Disclosure of Accounting Policies |
● | Amendments to IAS 8 - Definition of Accounting Estimates |
● | Amendments to IAS 12 - Deferred Tax Related to Assets and Liabilities arising from a Single Transaction |
● | Amendments to IAS 12 - International Tax Reform–Pillar Two Model Rules |
Except as described below, the application of the new and amendments to IFRSs in the current year has had no material impact on the Group’s financial positions and performance for the current and prior years and/or on the disclosures set out in these combined financial statements.
F-9 |
Amendment to IAS 1 and IFRS Practice Statement 2 Disclosure of Accounting Policies
IAS 1 is amended to replace all instances of the term “significant accounting policies” with “material accounting policy information”. Accounting policy information is material if, when considered together with other information included in an entity’s financial statements, it can reasonably be expected to influence decisions that the primary users of general purpose financial statements make on the basis of those financial statements.
The amendments also clarify that accounting policy information may be material because of the nature of the related transactions, other events or conditions, even if the amounts are immaterial. However, not all accounting policy information relating to material transactions, other events or conditions is itself material. If an entity chooses to disclose immaterial accounting policy information, such information must not obscure material accounting policy information.
IFRS Practice Statement 2 Making Materiality Judgements (the “Practice Statement”) is also amended to illustrate how an entity applies the “four-step materiality process” to accounting policy disclosures and to judge whether information about an accounting policy is material to its financial statements.
The Group has revisited the accounting policy information it has been disclosing and considered it is consistent with the amendments.
Amendments to IAS 8 Definition of Accounting Estimate
The amendments define accounting estimates as “monetary amounts in financial statements that are subject to measurement uncertainty”. An accounting policy may require items in financial statements to be measured in a way that involves measurement uncertainty – that is, the accounting policy may require such items to be measured at monetary amounts that cannot be observed directly and must instead be estimated. In such a case, an entity develops an accounting estimate to achieve the objective set out by the accounting policy. Developing accounting estimates involves the use of judgements or assumptions based on the latest available, reliable information. In addition, the concept of changes in accounting estimates in IAS 8 is retained with additional clarifications.
The amendments do not have a material impact on these combined financial statements as the Group’s approach in distinguishing changes in accounting policies and changes in accounting policies and changes in accounting estimates is consistent with the amendments.
2.3 New and amendments to IFRSs in issued but not yet effective
The Group has not early applied the following new and amendments to IFRSs that have been issued but are not yet effective:
● | Amendments to IFRS 10 and IAS 28: “Sale or Contribution of Assets between an Investor and its Associate or Joint Venture” (effective for annual periods beginning on or after a date to be determined) |
● | Amendments to IAS 1: “Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non-current” (effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after 1 January 2024) |
● | Amendments to IAS 1: “Non-current Liabilities with Covenants” (effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after 1 January 2024) |
● | Amendments to IAS 7 and IFRS 7: “Supplier Finance Arrangements” (effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after 1 January 2024) |
● | Amendments to IFRS 16: “Lease Liability in a Sale and Leaseback” (effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after 1 January 2024) |
Management anticipates that the application of all the new and amendments to IFRSs will have no material impact on the Group’s combined financial statements in the future.
F-10 |
3 MATERIAL ACCOUNTING POLICY INFORMATION
The combined financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis except for certain financial instruments that are measured at fair values at the end of each reporting period, as explained in the accounting policies set out below.
Historical cost is generally based on the fair value of the consideration given in exchange for goods and services.
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, regardless of whether that price is directly observable or estimated using another valuation technique. In estimating the fair value of an asset or a liability, the Group takes into account the characteristics of the asset or liability if market participants would take those characteristics into account when pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. Fair value for measurement and/or disclosure purposes in these combined financial statements is determined on such a basis, except for share-based payment transactions that are within the scope of IFRS 2 Share-based Payment.
For financial instruments which are transacted at fair value and a valuation technique that unobservable inputs are to be used to measure fair value in subsequent periods, the valuation technique is calibrated so that at initial recognition the results of the valuation technique equals the transaction price, where the highest level of inputs available are used in the valuation.
In addition, for financial reporting purposes, fair value measurements are categorized into Level 1, 2 or 3 based on the degree to which the inputs to the fair value measurements are observable and the significance of the inputs to the fair value measurement in its entirety, which are described as follows:
● | Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity can access at the measurement date; |
● | Level 2 inputs are inputs, other than quoted prices included within Level 1, that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly; and |
● | Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. |
Material accounting policy information adopted by the Group is disclosed below.
Basis of consolidation
The combined financial statements incorporate the consolidated financial statements of DSL Group and the financial statements of the Company. The consolidated financial statements of DSL Group have been combined with those of the Company from 26 January 2024.
Control is achieved when the Company:
● | has power over the investee; |
● | is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee; and |
● | has the ability to use its power to affect its returns. |
The Group reassesses whether or not it controls an investee if facts and circumstances indicate that there are changes to one or more of the three elements of control listed above.
Consolidation of a subsidiary begins when the Group obtains control over the subsidiary and ceases when the Group loses control of the subsidiary. Specifically, income and expenses of a subsidiary acquired or disposed of during the year are included in the combined statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income from the date the Group gains control until the date when the Group ceases to control the subsidiary.
Profit or loss and each item of other comprehensive income are attributed to the ordinary equity holders of the Company and to the non-controlling interests. Total comprehensive income or loss of subsidiaries is attributed to the ordinary equity holders of the Company and to the non-controlling interests even if this results in the non-controlling interests having a deficit balance.
F-11 |
When necessary, adjustments are made to the financial statements of subsidiaries to bring their accounting policies in line with the Group’s accounting policies.
All intragroup assets and liabilities, equity, income, expenses and cash flows relating to transactions between members of the Group are eliminated in full on consolidation.
Deemed reverse acquisition
The acquisition method of accounting is used to account for all deemed reverse acquisitions where in substance an operating company is acquired by a shell company where the shareholders of the operating company obtain control of the shell company.
With respect to the Transaction, DSL is the operating company while the Company is considered as shell company.
Identifying the accounting acquirer/accounting acquiree:
The Company is considered as the legal acquirer and the accounting acquiree. Control is obtained by DSL shareholders as the Company, on 15 July 2024, issued 6,869,960 ordinary shares and 1,291,910 preferred shares which allowed the former shareholder of DSL to hold the majority of issued share capital and voting rights.
Determining the deemed consideration transferred:
The deemed consideration transferred for the deemed reverse acquisition of the Company is the fair value of the shares which DSL would have had to issue in establishing the same post transaction control structure but as if it were the legal acquirer. Given there is no change to the control structure after the Transaction, the deemed consideration is determined as $Nil.
Fair value of assets and liabilities acquired in a deemed reverse acquisition:
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a deemed reversed acquisition are, with limited exceptions, measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date. For the Transaction, since it is a common control transaction the net assets acquired from the Company are solely current account with DSL, and its carrying value is adopted.
Calculate the Transaction expense:
The excess of the deemed consideration transferred over the fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired from the Company is considered insignificant to be recognized as an expense under IFRS 2 in the Group’s combined statement of profit or loss.
Presentation of the combined financial statements post deemed reverse acquisition:
Under the Transaction, the Company being the accounting acquiree (legal acquirer), becomes the ultimate parent holding company of the Group, however, the combined financial statement represents a continuation of DSL, the accounting acquirer (legal acquiree) with the exception of the legal capital structure.
The combined financial statements incorporate the financial statements items of the combining entities, i.e. the Company and DSL Group, in which the combination occurs as if they had been combined from the date when the combining entities first came under the control of the substantial shareholders.
The net assets of the combining entities are consolidated using the existing book values from the substantial shareholder’s perspective. No amount is recognized in respect of goodwill or bargain purchase gain at the time of combination.
The combined statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive loss includes the results of each of the combining entities from the earliest date presented or since the date when the combining businesses first came under the control of the substantial shareholder, where this is a shorter period, i.e. the date of incorporation of the Company on 26 January 2024.
Given the Company had not existed during the year ended 31 March 2022 and the combined financial statement represents a continuation of DSL, the consolidated financial statements of DSL Group for the year ended 31 March 2022 are presented as the comparative amounts in these combined financial statements.
Shareholders’ equity of DSL prior to the Transaction is retrospectively adjusted as a recapitalization for the equivalent number of shares received and on a pro rata basis, together with the impact of the Share Subdivision for prior reporting periods. Retained earnings and relevant reserves of the DSL are carried forward after the Transaction. Any difference to shareholders equity of DSL arising from the recapitalization of share capital and equity instruments issued is recorded in equity under the capital reserve.
F-12 |
Earnings per share
Earnings per share for periods prior to the Recapitalization are retrospectively adjusted to reflect the number of equivalent shares received by the accounting acquirer, DSL, based on the number of shares outstanding on the reporting dates multiplied by the exchange ratio. The exchange ratio being the combination of the share exchange swap of one DSL ordinary share for 410 Diginex Limited ordinary shares multiplied by a factor of two to reflect the Share Subdivision and one DSL preferred share for 410 Diginex Limited preferred shares multiplied by a factor of two to reflect the Share Subdivision.
Revenue recognition
The Group recognizes revenue when (or as) a performance obligation is satisfied, i.e. when “control” of the services underlying the particular performance obligation is transferred to the customer. A performance obligation represents a service (or a bundle of goods or services) that is distinct or a series of distinct services that are substantially the same.
Except for granting of a license that is distinct from other promised services, control is transferred over time and revenue is recognized over time by reference to the progress towards complete satisfaction of the relevant performance obligation if one of the following criteria is met:
● | the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided by the Group’s performance as the Group performs; |
● | the Group’s performance creates or enhances an asset that the customer controls as the Group performs; or |
● | the Group’s performance does not create an asset with an alternative use to the Group and the Group has an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date. |
Otherwise, revenue is recognized at a point in time when the customer obtains control of the distinct service.
For granting of a license that is distinct from other promised services, the nature of the Group’s promise in granting a license is a promise to provide a right to access the Group’s intellectual property if all of the following criteria are met:
● | the contract requires, or the customer reasonably expects, that the Group will undertake activities that significantly affect the intellectual property to which the customer has rights; |
● | the rights granted by the license directly expose the customer to any positive or negative effects of the Group’s activities; and |
● | those activities do not result in the transfer of a good or a service to the customer as those activities occur. |
If the criteria above are met, the Group accounts for the promise to grant a license as a performance obligation satisfied over time. Otherwise, the Group considers the grant of license as providing the customers the right to use the Group’s intellectual property and the performance obligation is satisfied at a point in time at which the license is granted.
A contract asset represents the Group’s right to consideration in exchange for goods or services that the Group has transferred to a customer that is not yet unconditional. It is assessed for impairment in accordance with IFRS 9. In contrast, a receivable represents the Group’s unconditional right to consideration, i.e. only the passage of time is required before payment of that consideration is due.
A contract liability represents the Group’s obligation to transfer services to a customer for which the Group has received consideration (or an amount of consideration is due) from the customer.
A contract asset and a contract liability relating to the same contract are accounted for and presented on a net basis.
Over time revenue recognition:- Input method
The progress towards complete satisfaction of a performance obligation is measured based on input method, which is to recognize revenue on the basis of the Group’s efforts or inputs to the satisfaction of a performance obligation relative to the total expected inputs to the satisfaction of that performance obligation, that best depict the Group’s performance in transferring control of services.
F-13 |
Government grants
Government grants are not recognised until there is reasonable assurance that the Group will comply with the conditions attaching to them and that the grants will be received.
Government grants related to income that are receivable as compensation for expenses or losses already incurred or for the purpose of giving immediate financial support to the Group with no future related costs are recognised in profit or loss in the period in which they become receivable. Government grants relating to compensation of expenses are deducted from the related expenses, other government grants are presented under “other income, gains or (losses)”.
Research and development expenditure
Expenditure on research activities is recognized as an expense in the period in which it is incurred.
An internally-generated intangible asset arising from development activities (or from the development phase of an internal project) is recognized if, and only if, all of the following have been demonstrated:
● | the technical feasibility of completing the intangible asset so that it will be available for use or sale; |
● | the intention to complete the intangible asset and use or sell it; |
● | the ability to use or sell the intangible asset; |
● | how the intangible asset will generate probable future economic benefits; |
● | the availability of adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the development and to use or sell the intangible asset; and |
● | the ability to measure reliably the expenditure attributable to the intangible asset during its development. |
The amount initially recognized for internally-generated intangible asset is the sum of the expenditure incurred from the date when the intangible asset first meets the recognition criteria listed above. Where no internally-generated intangible asset can be recognized, development expenditure is recognized in profit or loss in the period in which it is incurred.
During each of the years ended 31 March 2024 and 2023, no research and development expenditure is recognized as an internally generated intangible asset.
Foreign currencies
In preparing the financial statements of each individual group entity, transactions in currencies other than the functional currency of that entity (foreign currencies) are recognized at the rates of exchange prevailing on the dates of the transactions. At the end of the reporting period, monetary items denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing at that date. Non-monetary items carried at fair value that are denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing on the date when the fair value was determined. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are not retranslated.
Exchange differences arising on the settlement of monetary items, and on the retranslation of monetary items, are recognized in profit or loss in the period in which they arise.
For the purposes of presenting the combined financial statements, the assets and liabilities of the Group’s operations are translated into the presentation currency of the Group (i.e. USD) using exchange rates prevailing at the end of each reporting period. Income and expenses items are translated at the average exchange rates for the period, unless exchange rates fluctuate significantly during that period, in which case the exchange rates at the date of transactions are used. Exchange differences arising, if any, are recognized in other comprehensive income and accumulated in equity under the heading of exchange reserve (attributed to non-controlling interests as appropriate).
Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs are recognized in the statement of profit or loss in the period in which they are incurred.
F-14 |
Employee benefits
Retirement benefit costs
Payments made by the Group to defined contribution retirement benefit plans are recognized as an expense when employees have rendered service entitling them to the contributions.
Short-term employee benefits
Short-term employee benefits are recognized at the undiscounted amount of the benefits expected to be paid as and when employees rendered the services. All short-term employee benefits are recognized as an expense unless another IFRSs requires or permits the inclusion of the benefit in the cost of an asset.
A liability is recognized for benefits accruing to employees (such as salaries and annual leave) after deducting any amount already paid.
Share-based payments
Equity-settled share-based payments to employees and others providing similar services are measured at the fair value of the equity instruments at the grant date.
The fair value of the equity-settled share-based payments determined at the grant date without taking into consideration all non-market vesting conditions is expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, based on the Group’s estimate of equity instruments that will eventually vest, with a corresponding increase in equity (share option reserve). At the end of each reporting period, the Group revises its estimate of the number of equity instruments expected to vest based on assessment of all relevant non-market vesting conditions. The impact of the revision of the original estimates, if any, is recognized in the statement of profit or loss such that the cumulative expense reflects the revised estimate, with a corresponding adjustment to the share option reserve. For share options that vest immediately at the date of grant, the fair value of the share options granted is expensed immediately to the statement of profit or loss.
When share options are exercised, the amount previously recognized in share option reserve will be transferred to share capital. When the share options are forfeited after the vesting date or are still not exercised at the expiry date, the amount previously recognized in share option reserve will be transferred to accumulated losses.
Taxation
Income tax expense (benefit) represents the sum of the current tax and deferred tax.
The tax currently payable is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from profit recognized in the combined statement of profit or loss because of items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and items that are never taxable or deductible. The Group’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period.
Deferred tax is recognized on differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the combined financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit. Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognized for all taxable temporary differences and deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against deductible temporary differences, unused tax losses or unused tax credits. Such assets and liabilities are not recognized if the temporary difference arises from goodwill or from the initial recognition (other than in a business combination) of other assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the taxable profit nor the accounting profit.
Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries, except where the Group is able to control the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.
The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at the end of each reporting period and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered.
F-15 |
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the deferred liability is settled or the deferred asset is realized, based on tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period.
The measurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities reflects the tax consequences that would follow from the manner in which the Group expects, at the end of the reporting period, to recover or settle the carrying amount of its assets and liabilities.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority and the Group intends to settle its current tax assets and liabilities on a net basis.
Current and deferred tax are recognized in profit or loss.
Plant and equipment
Plant and equipment are tangible assets that are held for use in the production or supply of goods or services, or for administrative purposes. Plant and equipment are stated in the combined statement of financial position at cost less subsequent accumulated depreciation and subsequent accumulated impairment losses, if any.
Depreciation is recognized so as to write off the cost of assets less their residual values over their estimated useful lives, using the straight-line method. The estimated useful lives, residual values and depreciation method are reviewed at the end of each reporting period, with the effect of any changes in estimate accounted for on a prospective basis. Estimated useful lives of plant and equipment are as follows:
Office equipment | 5 years |
An item of plant and equipment is derecognized upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on de-recognition of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in the combined statement of profit or loss in the year the asset is derecognized.
Lease
At inception of a contract, the Group assesses whether the contract is, or contains, a lease. A contract is, or contains, a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration.
The Group as lessee
For a contract that contains a lease component and one or more additional lease or non-lease components, the Group allocates the consideration in the contract to each lease component on the basis of the relative stand-alone price of the lease component and the aggregate stand-alone price of the non-lease components. The Group applies practical expedient not to separate non-lease components from lease component, and instead account for the lease component and any associated non-lease components as a single lease component.
In applying IFRS 16, the Group elected a simplified approach for leases with a lease term of 12 months or less from the commencement date and do not contain a purchase option. Lease payments on short-term leases are recognized as expense on a straight-line basis.
In assessing whether a lessee is reasonably certain to exercise an option to extend a lease, or not to exercise an option to terminate a lease, the Group considers all relevant facts and circumstances that create an economic incentive for the lessee to exercise the option to extend the lease, or not to exercise the option to terminate the lease. The Group revises the lease term if there is a change in the non-cancellable period of a lease.
F-16 |
Right-of use assets
The right-of-use asset is initially recognized at cost comprising of:
● | amount of the initial measurement of the lease liability; | |
● | any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, less any lease incentives received; | |
● | any initial direct costs incurred by the Group; and | |
● | an estimate of costs to be incurred by the Group in dismantling and removing the underlying asset, restoring the site on which it is located or restoring the underlying asset to the condition required by the terms and conditions of the lease. |
Right-of-use assets are measured at cost, less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, and adjusted for any remeasurement of lease liabilities.
Right-of-use assets in which the Group is reasonably certain to obtain ownership of the underlying leased assets at the end of the lease term are depreciated from commencement date to the end of the useful life. Otherwise, right-of-use assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of its estimated useful life and the lease term.
The Group presents right-of-use assets as a separate line item on the unaudited interim condensed combined statement of financial position.
Lease liabilities
At the commencement date of a lease, the Group recognizes and measures the lease liability at the present value of lease payments that are unpaid at that date. In calculating the present value of lease payments, the Group uses the incremental borrowing rate at the lease commencement date if the interest rate implicit in the lease is not readily determinable.
The lease payments include:
● | fixed payments (including in-substance fixed payments) less any lease incentives receivable; | |
● | variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate, initially measured using the index or rate as at the commencement date; | |
● | amounts expected to be payable by the Group under residual value guarantees; | |
● | the exercise price of a purchase option if the Group is reasonably certain to exercise the option; and | |
● | payments of penalties for terminating a lease, if the lease term reflects the Group exercising an option to terminate the lease. |
After the commencement date, lease liabilities are adjusted by interest accretion and lease payments. The Group remeasures lease liabilities (and makes a corresponding adjustment to the related right-of-use assets) whenever:
● | the lease term has changed or there is a change in the assessment of exercise of a purchase option, in which case the related lease liability is remeasured by discounting the revised lease payments using a revised discount rate at the date of reassessment. | |
● | the lease payments change due to changes in market rental rates following a market rent review, in which cases the related lease liability is remeasured by discounting the revised lease payments using the initial discount rate. |
The Group presents lease liabilities as a separate line item on the unaudited interim condensed combined statement of financial position.
Impairment of non-financial assets
At each reporting date, the Group reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets with finite useful lives to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the relevant asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).
The recoverable amounts of relevant assets are estimated individually. When it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount individually, the Group estimates the recoverable amount of the cash generating unit to which the asset belongs.
F-17 |
In testing a cash-generating unit for impairment, corporate assets are allocated to the relevant cash-generating unit when a reasonable and consistent basis of allocation can be established, or otherwise they are allocated to the smallest group of cash generating units for which a reasonable and consistent allocation basis can be established. The recoverable amount is determined for the cash-generating unit or group of cash-generating units to which the corporate asset belongs, and is compared with the carrying amount of the relevant cash-generating unit or group of cash-generating units.
Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset (or a cash-generating unit) for which the estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted.
If the recoverable amount of an asset (or a cash-generating unit) is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset (or a cash-generating unit) is reduced to its recoverable amount. For corporate assets or portion of corporate assets which cannot be allocated on a reasonable and consistent basis to a cash-generating unit, the Group compares the carrying amount of a group of cash-generating units, including the carrying amounts of the corporate assets or portion of corporate assets allocated to that group of cash-generating units, with the recoverable amount of the group of cash-generating units. In allocating the impairment loss, the impairment loss is allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill (if applicable) and then to the other assets on a pro-rata basis based on the carrying amount of each asset in the unit or the group of cash-generating units. The carrying amount of an asset is not reduced below the highest of its fair value less costs of disposal (if measurable), its value in use (if determinable) and zero. The amount of the impairment loss that would otherwise have been allocated to the asset is allocated pro rata to the other assets of the unit or the group of cash-generating units. An impairment loss is recognized immediately in profit or loss.
Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit or a group of cash-generating units) is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognized for the asset (or a cash-generating unit or a group of cash-generating units) in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognized immediately in profit or loss.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents mainly comprised of cash at different banks. The Company considers all short-term investments with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased as cash and cash equivalents. As of 31 March 2024 and 2023, the Group did not have such short term investments.
Financial instruments
Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognized when a group entity becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. All regular way purchases or sales of financial assets are recognized and derecognized on a settlement date basis. Regular way purchases or sales are purchases or sales of financial assets that require delivery of assets within the time frame established by regulation or convention in the market place.
Financial assets and financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value except for trade receivables arising from contracts with customers which are initially measured in accordance with IFRS 15. Transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or issue of financial assets and financial liabilities (other than financial assets or financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss (“FVTPL”)) are added to or deducted from the fair value of the financial assets or financial liabilities, as appropriate, on initial recognition. Transaction costs directly attributable to the acquisition of financial assets or financial liabilities at FVTPL are recognized immediately in profit or loss.
The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial asset or financial liability and of allocating interest income and interest expense over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts and payments (including all fees and points paid or received that form an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and other premiums or discounts) through the expected life of the financial asset or financial liability, or, where appropriate, a shorter period, to the net carrying amount on initial recognition.
F-18 |
Financial assets
Classification and subsequent measurement of financial assets
Financial assets that meet the following conditions are subsequently measured at amortized cost:
● | the financial asset is held within a business model whose objective is to collect contractual cash flows; and | |
● | the contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding. |
All other financial assets are subsequently measured at FVTPL.
Amortized cost and interest income
Interest income is recognized using the effective interest method for financial assets measured subsequently at amortized cost. Interest income is calculated by applying the effective interest rate to the gross carrying amount of a financial asset, except for financial assets that have subsequently become credit-impaired (see below). For financial assets that have subsequently become credit-impaired, interest income is recognized by applying the effective interest rate to the amortized cost of the financial asset from the next reporting period. If the credit risk on the credit-impaired financial instrument improves so that the financial asset is no longer credit-impaired, interest income is recognized by applying the effective interest rate to the gross carrying amount of the financial asset from the beginning of the reporting period following the determination that the asset is no longer credit-impaired. At the end of the reporting period, trade and other receivables are measured at amortized cost.
Financial assets at FVTPL
Financial assets that do not meet the criteria for being measured at amortized cost or Fair Value Through Other Comprehensive Income (“FVTOCI”) or designated as FVTOCI are measured at FVTPL.
Financial assets at FVTPL are measured at fair value at the end of each reporting period, with any fair value gains or losses recognized in profit or loss. The net gain or loss recognized in profit or loss excludes any dividend or interest earned on the financial asset.
Impairment of financial assets subject to impairment assessment under IFRS 9
The Group performs impairment assessment under expected credit loss (“ECL”) model on financial assets (including trade and other receivables and amounts due from an associate/shareholders/related companies) which are subject to impairment assessment under IFRS 9. The amount of ECL is updated at each reporting date to reflect changes in credit risk since initial recognition.
Lifetime ECL represents the ECL that will result from all possible default events over the expected life of the relevant instrument. In contrast, 12-month ECL (“12m ECL”) represents the portion of lifetime ECL that is expected to result from default events that are possible within 12 months after the reporting date. Assessments are done based on the Group’s historical credit loss experience, adjusted for factors that are specific to the debtors, general economic conditions and an assessment of both the current conditions at the reporting date as well as the forecast of future conditions.
The Group always recognizes lifetime ECL for trade receivables.
For all other instruments, the Group measures the loss allowance equal to 12-month expected credit loss (“ECL”), unless there has been a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, in which case the Group recognizes lifetime ECL. The assessment of whether lifetime ECL should be recognized is based on significant increases in the likelihood or risk of a default occurring since initial recognition.
F-19 |
Derecognition of financial assets
The Group derecognizes a financial asset only when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire, or when it transfers the financial asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the asset to another entity. If the Group neither transfers nor retains substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership and continues to control the transferred asset, the Group recognizes its retained interest in the asset and an associated liability for amounts it may have to pay. If the Group retains substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of a transferred financial asset, the Group continues to recognize the financial asset and also recognizes a collateralized borrowing for the proceeds received.
On derecognition of a financial asset measured at amortized cost, the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the sum of the consideration received and receivable is recognized in profit or loss.
Financial liabilities and equity
Classification as debt or equity
Debt and equity instruments are classified as either financial liabilities or as equity in accordance with the substance of the contractual arrangements and the definitions of a financial liability and an equity instrument.
Equity instruments
An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of an entity after deducting all of its liabilities. Equity instruments issued by the Company are recognized at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.
Financial liabilities at FVTPL
Financial liabilities are classified as at FVTPL when the financial liability is (i) contingent consideration of an acquirer in a business combination to which IFRS 3 applies, (ii) held for trading or (iii) it is designated as at FVTPL.
A financial liability is held for trading if:
● | it has been acquired principally for the purpose of repurchasing it in the near term; or |
● | on initial recognition it is part of a portfolio of identified financial instruments that the Group manages together and has a recent actual pattern of short-term profit-taking; or |
● | it is a derivative, except for a derivative that is a financial guarantee contract or a designated and effective hedging instrument. |
A financial liability other than a financial liability held for trading or contingent consideration of an acquirer in a business combination may be designated as at FVTPL upon initial recognition if:
● | such designation eliminates or significantly reduces a measurement or recognition inconsistency that would otherwise arise; or |
● | the financial liability forms part of a group of financial assets or financial liabilities or both, which is managed, and its performance is evaluated on a fair value basis, in accordance with the Group’s documented risk management or investment strategy, and information about the grouping is provided internally on that basis; or |
● | it forms part of a contract containing one or more embedded derivatives, and IFRS 9 permits the entire combined contract to be designated as at FVTPL. |
For financial liabilities that are designated as at FVTPL, the amount of changes in the fair value of the financial liability that is attributable to changes in the credit risk of that liability is recognized in other comprehensive income, unless the recognition of the effects of changes in the liability’s credit risk in other comprehensive income would create or enlarge an accounting mismatch in profit or loss.
F-20 |
Financial liabilities at amortized cost
Financial liabilities including other payables and amounts due to an associate/related parties/directors are subsequently measured at amortized cost, using the effective interest method.
Preferred shares/ convertible loan notes/redeemable ordinary shares
At the date of issue, preferred shares, convertible loan notes and redeemable ordinary shares are designated as at FVTPL with both the debt component and derivative components recognized at fair value. In subsequent period, changes in fair value are recognized in profit or loss as fair value gain or loss except for changes in the fair value that is attributable to changes in the credit risk (excluding changes in fair value of the derivatives component) is recognized in other comprehensive income, unless the recognition of the effects of changes in the credit risk in other comprehensive income would create or enlarge an accounting mismatch in profit or loss. Changes in fair value attributable to the credit risk that are recognized in other comprehensive income are not subsequently reclassified to profit or loss, they are transferred to retained profits upon derecognition.
Transaction costs relating to the issue of all these instruments are charged to profit or loss immediately.
Derecognition of financial liabilities
The Group derecognizes financial liabilities when, and only when, the Group’s obligations are discharged, cancelled or have expired. The difference between the carrying amount of the financial liability derecognized and the consideration paid and payable is recognized in profit or loss.
Related parties
A related party is a person or entity that is related to the Group.
(a) | A person or a close member of that person’s family is related to the Group if that person: |
i. | has control or joint control over the Group; | |
ii. | has significant influence over the Group; or | |
iii. | is a member of key management personnel of the Group or the Group’s parent. |
(b) | An entity is related to the Group if any of the following conditions apply: |
i. | The entity and the Group are members of the same group (which means that each parent, subsidiary and fellow subsidiary is related to the others). | |
ii. | One entity is an associate or joint venture of the other entity (or an associate or joint venture of a member of a group of which the other entity is a member). | |
iii. | Both entities are joint ventures of the same third party. | |
iv. | One entity is a joint venture of a third entity and the other entity is an associate of the third entity. | |
v. | The entity is a post-employment benefit plan for the benefit of the employees of the Group or an entity related to the Group. | |
vi. | The entity is controlled or jointly controlled by a person identified in (a). | |
vii. | A person identified in (a)(i) has significant influence over the entity or is a member of key management personnel of the entity (or of a parent of the entity). | |
viii. | The entity, or any member of a group of which it is a part, provides key management personnel services to the Group or to the parent of the Group. |
F-21 |
Current versus non-current classification
The Group presents assets and liabilities in the combined statement of financial position based on current/non-current classification. An asset is current when:
● | It is expected to be realized or intended to be sold or consumed in normal operating cycle; | |
● | It is held primarily for the purpose of trading; | |
● | It is expected to be realized within twelve months after the reporting period; or | |
● | It is cash or cash equivalent unless restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period. |
All other assets are classified as non-current.
A liability is current when:
● | It is expected to be settled in normal operating cycle; | |
● | It is held primarily for the purpose of trading; | |
● | It is due to be settled within twelve months after the reporting period; or | |
● | There is no unconditional right to defer the settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period. |
All other liabilities are classified as non-current.
4 Key sources of judgements and estimation uncertainty
In the application of the Group’s accounting policies, which are described in note 3, the management is required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an on-going basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.
Judgements
In the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies, management has made the following judgements which have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in the combined financial statements:
Functional currency
The Company’s revenue contracts, operating expenses and borrowing are primarily in USD, and are expected to remain principally denominated in USD in the future. Management has determined USD as the Company’s functional currency and presented the combined financial statements in USD to meet the requirements of users.
Financial instruments
In the process of classifying a financial instrument, management has made various judgments. Judgment is needed to determine whether a financial instrument, or its component parts, on initial recognition is classified as a financial liability, a financial asset or an equity instrument in accordance with the substance of the contractual arrangement and the definitions of a financial liability, a financial asset and an equity instrument. In making its judgment, management considered the detailed criteria and related guidance for the classification of financial instruments as set out in IFRS 9, in particular, whether the instrument includes a contractual obligation to deliver cash or another financial asset to another entity.
F-22 |
Segmental reporting
Operating segments are defined as components of an entity for which separate financial information is available and that is regularly reviewed by the Chief Operating Decision Maker (the “CODM”) in deciding how to allocate resources to an individual segment and in assessing performance. The Group’s management is considered the Group’s CODM. The CODM reviews financial information presented on a combined basis for purposes of making operating decisions, allocating resources, and evaluating financial performance. While the Group has revenue from multiple services and geographies, the financial position, performance and cashflow of the Group are considered by the CODM on a combined basis, so discrete financial information is not available for each such component. The overall financial performance of the Group is also considered as a whole.
As such, the Group has determined that it operates as one operating segment and one reportable segment. The Group will continue to assess the operating segments reviewed by the CODM and the associated reportable segments per IAS 8.
Estimation uncertainties
The key assumptions concerning the future, and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date, that may have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year, are discussed below:
Fair value measurement of financial instruments
At the end of each reporting period, certain of the Group’s financial liabilities, including preferred shares and convertible loan notes, are measured at fair value with fair value being determined based on significant unobservable inputs using valuation techniques. Judgement and estimation are required in establishing the relevant valuation techniques and the relevant inputs thereof. Changes in assumptions relating to these factors could result in material adjustments to the fair value of these instruments.
Provision of ECL for trade receivables
Trade receivables with significant balances and credit-impaired are assessed for ECL individually. In addition, for trade receivables which are individually insignificant or when the Group does not have reasonable and supportable information that is available without undue cost or effort to measure ECL on individual basis, collective assessment is performed by grouping debtors based on the Group’s internal credit ratings.
The provision of ECL is sensitive to changes in estimates.
Income taxes
The Group is subject to income taxes in several jurisdictions. Significant estimates are required in determining the provision for income taxes. There are many transactions and calculations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain during the ordinary course of business. Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts that were initially recorded, such differences will impact the current and deferred tax exposure in the period in which such determination is made.
Share-based payment expenses – share options awards
The fair value of the share option awards granted that is determined at the date of grant of the respective share options is expensed over the vesting period, with a corresponding adjustment to the Group’s share option reserve. In assessing the fair value of the share option award, discounted cash flows and the equity allocation model were used to calculate the fair value of the share options. The discounted cash flows and the equity allocation model require the input of subjective assumptions, including discount rate, volatility of the Company’s ordinary shares and the expected life of options. Any changes in these assumptions can significantly affect the estimate of the fair value of the share option awards.
Discount rate used for initial measurement of lease liability
The Group, as a lessee, measures the lease liability at the present value of the unpaid lease payments at the commencement date. The lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease, if that rate can be readily determined. If that rate cannot be readily determined, the Group on initial recognition of the lease uses its incremental borrowing rate. Incremental borrowing rate is the rate of interest that the Group would have to pay to borrow over a similar term, and with a similar security, the funds necessary to obtain an asset of a similar value to the right-of-use assets in similar economic environment.
F-23 |
5 REVENUE
An analysis of the Group’s revenue for the reporting periods are as follows:
Year ended | Year ended | |||||||
31 March 2024 | 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
At a point in time: | ||||||||
Customization income | 695,243 | 1,019,064 | ||||||
Advisory service income | 160,085 | - | ||||||
855,328 | 1,019,064 | |||||||
Over time: | ||||||||
Advisory service income | - | 248,497 | ||||||
License fee income | 444,210 | 358,202 | ||||||
444,210 | 606,699 | |||||||
1,299,538 | 1,625,763 |
All service provided by the Group are for periods of one year or less. As permitted under IFRS 15, the transaction price allocated to the remaining performance obligations is not disclosed.
6 GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
Year ended | Year ended | |||||||||
Notes | 31 March 2024 | 31 March 2023 | ||||||||
USD | USD | |||||||||
Employees’ benefits | (a) | 5,043,962 | 5,025,450 | |||||||
IT development and maintenance support | (b) | 2,121,539 | 2,661,511 | |||||||
Audit fee | (c) | 594,224 | 22,294 | |||||||
Professional fee | (d) | 531,245 | 275,234 | |||||||
Travelling expenses | (e) | 514,106 | 28,935 | |||||||
Amortization and depreciation | (f) | 103,276 | 1,007 | |||||||
Write-off of due from a related company | 81,347 | - | ||||||||
Write-off of trade receivables | 21,522 | 14,752 | ||||||||
Impairment loss (reversal)/ recognized in respect of trade receivables | (400 | ) | 5,025 | |||||||
Advertising and marketing expenses | (g) | 43,000 | 479,766 | |||||||
Consultancy fees | (h) | 42,599 | 126,153 | |||||||
Rent | (i) | 35,426 | 83,657 | |||||||
Others | (j) | 231,499 | 176,707 | |||||||
9,363,345 | 8,900,491 |
The by-nature classification of general and administrative expenses for the year ended 31 March 2023 has been represented to conform with the presentation for the year ended 31 March 2024.
(a) | Year ended | Year ended | ||||||
31 March 2024 | 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
Basic salaries, allowances and all benefits-in-kind | 3,581,537 | 4,261,273 | ||||||
Pension costs – defined contribution plans | 109,590 | 176,356 | ||||||
Share-based payments | 1,352,835 | 587,821 | ||||||
5,043,962 | 5,025,450 |
The above includes the cost of both employees and contractors. At 31 March 2024 the Company had 22 employees and 7 contractors (2023: 26 employees and 10 contractors). |
(b) | IT development and maintenance support costs relate, primarily, to those associated with a third party that contributes to researching, developing and maintaining the Group commercial products. The costs also include server expenses for hosting the products. Included in IT development and maintenance support, the Group incurred research and development expenses of $1,334,865 for the year ended 31 March 2024 (2023: $2,089,914). |
F-24 |
(c) | For the year ended 31 March 2024, significant increase in audit fees is due to the fees for the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“PCAOB”) audits of DSL’s consolidated financial statements for each of the years ended 31 March 2022, 2023 and 2024. For the year ended 31 March 2023, audit fees are primarily related to local statutory audits of group entities in different jurisdictions. |
(d) | The increase in professional fees during the year ended 31 March 2024 is primarily due to the legal and professional fees incurred in connection with the preparation of the Form F-1 of the Company and the planned IPO. |
(e) | Travelling expenses increased as the Group met with investors and sought business opportunities |
(f) | The increase is primarily due to amortization expense in connection with the new office lease entered into by the Group in Monaco during the year ended 31 March 2024. |
(g) | Advertising and marketing fees costs reduced during the year ended 31 March 2024 as the Group ceased running a digital marketing campaign with the aid of a third party. |
(h) | Consultancy fees, primarily relate to third party human resources support and other licensing service. Costs relating to human resources support decreased in the year ended 31 March 2024. |
(i) | Rent represents the operating lease of Hong Kong office for both years. During the year ended 31 March 2023, the Group moved to cheaper office space. |
(j) | Other costs include recruitment fees insurance, bank charges, general office expenses and others. |
7 OTHER INCOME, GAINS or (LOSSES)
Year ended | Year ended | |||||||||
Notes | 31 March 2024 | 31 March 2023 | ||||||||
USD | USD | |||||||||
Fair value change | ||||||||||
Preferred shares | (a) | 4,101,000 | (1,841,000 | ) | ||||||
Convertible loan notes | (b) | (374,000 | ) | (19,000 | ) | |||||
Bank interest income | 873 | 576 | ||||||||
Subsidies from government authorities | 19,230 | 67,433 | ||||||||
Other | 6,885 | 29,581 | ||||||||
3,753,988 | (1,762,410 | ) |
(a) | The preferred shares were fair valued, using an equity allocation model at the end of each reporting period, which resulted in a gain of $4,101,000 for the year ended 31 March 2024 (2023: loss of $1,841,000). |
(b) | During the year ended 31 March 2024 and 2023, the Group issued 8% convertible loan notes. At 31 March 2024, there were outstanding notes with aggregate face values of $3,350,000 (2023: $3,250,000). The notes were fair valued at the end of each reporting period, resulting in a loss of $374,000 for the year ended 31 March 2024 (2023: loss of $19,000). |
8 FINANCE COSTS, NET
Year ended | Year ended | |||||||
31 March 2024 | 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
Interest on | ||||||||
Convertible loan notes | 266,520 | 80,822 | ||||||
Loan from immediate holding company | 187,584 | 78,926 | ||||||
Loan from a related company | 80,219 | 60,712 | ||||||
Lease liabilities | 18,328 | - | ||||||
552,651 | 220,460 |
F-25 |
9 INCOME TAXES
During the year ended 31 March 2024, income tax expense of the Group represented under-provision of current tax from 2022 of a subsidiary in United States of America. There was no other current tax expense or deferred tax expense for the year ended 31 March 2024.
There was no current or deferred tax expense for the year ended 31 March 2023.
9.1 Current income taxes
Under the two-tiered profits tax rates regime of Hong Kong Profits Tax, the first HK$2 million (c.$250,000) of profits of the qualifying group entity will be taxed at 8.25%, and profits above HK$2 million (c.$250,000) will be taxed at 16.5%. The profits of group entities not qualifying for the two-tiered profits tax rates regime will continue to be taxed at a flat rate of 16.5%.
Taxes charged on profits assessable elsewhere have been calculated at the rates of tax prevailing in the countries in which the Group operates, based on existing legislation, interpretation and practices in respect thereof.
The income tax expense for the year can be reconciled to the loss for the year from per the combined statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income as follows:
Year ended 31 March 2024 | Year ended 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
Loss before taxation | (4,862,470 | ) | (9,257,598 | ) | ||||
Notional tax calculated at the rates applicable to profits in the tax jurisdictions concerned | (821,825 | ) | (1,555,403 | ) | ||||
Tax effect of expenses that are not deductible | 405,775 | 451,111 | ||||||
Tax effect of income that are not taxable | (676,665 | ) | - | |||||
Tax effect of tax losses not recognized | 1,092,715 | 1,104,292 | ||||||
Under-provision in prior years | 8,917 | - | ||||||
Income tax expense | 8,917 | - |
9.2 Deferred income taxes
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset tax recoverable against current income tax liabilities and when the deferred income taxes relate to the same fiscal authority.
The Group has accumulated tax losses of $21,847,422 at 31 March 2024 (2023: $15,337,860) that are available indefinitely for offsetting against future taxable profits of the respective group companies in which the losses arose.
Deferred tax asset in respect of accumulated tax losses of $Nil (2023: $3,696) has been recognized to offset deferred tax liability arising from accelerated depreciation of the Group’s plant and equipment. No deferred tax asset has been recognized in respect of the remaining tax losses of $21,847,422 (2023: $15,334,164).
The ultimate realization of unused tax losses is dependent upon the generation of sufficient future taxable profits during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. In determining the recognition of a deferred tax asset, management considered the future profitability of the Group. While management expects the Group to return profits in the future, there is still an element of uncertainty and as such, no deferred tax asset has been recognized.
F-26 |
10 LOSS PER SHARE
Year Ended 31 March 2024 | Year Ended 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
Loss for the year | ||||||||
Loss for the year for the purpose of basic loss per share | (4,871,131 | ) | (9,257,598 | ) | ||||
Effect of dilutive potential ordinary shares: | ||||||||
Fair value change of preferred shares | (4,101,000 | ) | NA | |||||
Loss for the year for the purpose of diluted loss per share | (8,972,131 | ) | (9,257,598 | ) | ||||
Number of shares | ||||||||
Weighted average number of ordinary shares for the purpose of basic loss per share – post-recapitalization | 9,514,886 | 9,497,240 | ||||||
Effect of dilutive potential ordinary shares: | ||||||||
Preferred shares – post-recapitalization | 2,460,000 | N/A | ||||||
Weighted average number of ordinary shares for the purpose of diluted loss per share – post-recapitalization | 11,974,886 | 9,497,240 |
Due to the losses during the years ended 31 March 2024 and 2023, some anti-dilutive instruments were excluded from the calculation of diluted loss per share. The excluded instruments (post-recapitalization), which are determined as anti-dilutive, include:
● | Share option awards of 1,934 and 1,545, with Recapitalized amount of shares exercisable from the share option awards of 1,585,880 and 1,266,900, at 31 March 2024 and 31 March 2023, respectively., see note 23; | |
● | Preferred shares of 3,000 shares, with Recapitalized amount of Preferred Shares of 2,460,000, at 31 March 2023, see note 17; and | |
● | Convertible loan notes with aggregate face values of $3,350,000 (2023: $3,250,000), see note 18. |
11 RIGHT-OF-USE ASSETS, NET
Right-of-use assets relate to office space leased by the Group. The amount in respect of lease are as follows:
Properties | ||||
USD | ||||
At 1 April 2023 | - | |||
Additions (a) | 482,619 | |||
Amortisation | (99,580 | ) | ||
Modification adjustment (b) | (25,837 | ) | ||
At 31 March 2024: | 357,202 |
Note:
(a) | In June 2023, the Group entered into a lease agreement in Monaco which expires in January 2027. The lease has an annual break clause. |
(b) | There was rent review in February 2024 and modification adjustment were made to account for the change in monthly rent. |
F-27 |
12 PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Computer equipment | ||||
USD | ||||
Cost: | ||||
At 1 April 2022, 31 March 2023 and 31 March 2024 | 5,038 | |||
Accumulated depreciation: | ||||
At 1 April 2022 | (335 | ) | ||
Charge for the year | (1,007 | ) | ||
At 31 March 2023 | (1,342 | ) | ||
Charge for the year | (3,696 | ) | ||
At 31 March 2024 | (5,038 | ) | ||
Net carrying amount: | ||||
At 31 March 2024 | - | |||
At 31 March 2023 | 3,696 |
13 TRADE RECEIVABLES, CONTRACT ASSETS, PREPAYMENT, DEPOSITS AND OTHER RECEIVABLES
13.1 Trade receivables
At 31 March 2024 | At 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
Trade receivables | 186,966 | 294,820 | ||||||
Less: loss allowance | (4,632 | ) | (5,032 | ) | ||||
Total | 182,334 | 289,788 |
Trade receivables are non-interest bearing and generally have credit terms of 30 days.
An aging analysis of the trade receivables as at the end of the reporting period, based on the invoice date and net of loss provision, is as follows:
At 31 March 2024 | At 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
Less than 1 month | 85,740 | 74,078 | ||||||
Between 1 month and 3 months | 59,905 | 135,691 | ||||||
Over 3 months | 36,689 | 80,019 | ||||||
182,334 | 289,788 |
The movements in the loss allowance for impairment of trade receivables are as follows:
Year ended 31 March 2024 | Year ended 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
At the beginning of the year | 5,032 | - | ||||||
Provision for the year | 2,200 | 5,032 | ||||||
Reversal for the year | (2,600 | ) | - | |||||
At the end of the year | 4,632 | 5,032 |
During the year ended 31 March 2024, trade receivables of $21,522 (2023: $14,752) were written off due to uncollectible as assessed by management. The carrying amounts of trade receivables are approximate their fair values.
F-28 |
13.2 Contract Assets
At 31 March 2024 | At 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
Contract Assets | 69,354 | 26,989 |
Contract assts relates to client contracts that have been complete, revenue recognized but yet to be invoiced.
13.3 Prepayment, deposits and other receivables
At | At | |||||||||
Notes | 31 March 2024 | 31 March 2023 | ||||||||
USD | USD | |||||||||
Current: | ||||||||||
Deposits | (a) | 35,261 | - | |||||||
Prepayments | 34,197 | 43,250 | ||||||||
Other receivables | (b) | 184,018 | 142 | |||||||
253,476 | 43,392 | |||||||||
Non-current: | ||||||||||
Deposit | (a) | 35,431 | - |
(a) | Current deposits represent amounts paid to an employment agency in Germany. Non-current deposit of $35,431 (2023: $Nil) represents a deposit for a long-term lease of office space in Monaco. Deposit of $34,579 was originally paid by a related party and is shown as an amount due to related party of the balance sheet. |
(b) | Other receivables mainly comprised deferred transaction costs in connection with the planned initial public offering of the Group of $142,633 (the “IPO expenses”) and an outstanding balance with payment channel, Stripe, of $41,385. The IPO expenses shall be deducted against equity upon the successful IPO or charged to the statement of profit or loss if the IPO is unsuccessful. |
14 Trade payables, OTHER PAYABLES AND ACCRUALS
At | At | |||||||||
Note | 31 March 2024 | 31 March 2023 | ||||||||
USD | USD | |||||||||
Trade payables | 788,798 | 187,584 | ||||||||
Other payables | 11,057 | 5,081 | ||||||||
Accruals | (a) | 585,813 | 344,116 | |||||||
1,385,668 | 536,781 |
(a) | Accruals include audit fee, salaries and holiday pay accruals for employees, IPO related fees and others associated with the on-going running of the Group. |
15 Deferred REVENUES
At | At | |||||||
31 March 2024 | 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
Advisory service income | 52,950 | 35,533 | ||||||
Customization income | 122,200 | 82,608 | ||||||
License fee income | 147,676 | 217,525 | ||||||
322,826 | 335,666 |
At 1 April 2022, deferred revenues amounted to $316,711.
Deferred revenue relates to revenues that have been invoiced to the client but not yet earned. The deferred revenues are expected to be recognized as revenue in the next 12 months.
F-29 |
16 RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
16.1 Transactions with related parties
In addition to those related party transactions and balances disclosed elsewhere in the combined financial statements, the Group had the following transactions with its related parties during the reporting period:
Year ended | Year ended | |||||||||
Notes | 31 March 2024 | 31 March 2023 | ||||||||
USD | USD | |||||||||
License fee income | (a) | 71,333 | 387,751 | |||||||
Contractor fee | (b) | 250,000 | 250,000 | |||||||
Impairment loss recognized in respect of due from a related company | (c) | 81,347 | - | |||||||
Finance charges on: | ||||||||||
Loan from a related company | (d) | 80,219 | 60,712 | |||||||
Loans from immediate holding company | (e) | 187,584 | 78,926 | |||||||
Convertible loan notes | (f) | 266,520 | 80,822 |
(a) | During the year ended 31 March 2024, the Group entered into sales agreements with certain shareholders amounting to $71,333 in revenue generated (2023: $387,751). |
(b) | During the year ended 31 March 2024, Miles Pelham, controller of Rhino Ventures, engaged as a contractor to provide management services in return for a fee of $250,000 (2023: $250,000). |
(c) | During the year ended 31 March 2024, the Group has fully written off the amount due from a related company, Diginex (Holdings) Limited, a company controlled by Rhino Ventures, of $81,347 (2023: $Nil). |
(d) | The Group has an outstanding loan principal of $1,000,000 due to Diginex (Holdings) Limited. The loan bears an 8% annual interest charge and interest of $80,219 accrued during the year ended 31 March 2024 (2023: $60,712). |
(e) | The Group has a loan outstanding from the immediate holding company, Rhino Ventures Limited, with a principal balance of $1,664,483 at 31 March 2024 (2023: $2,250,000). The loan bears an 8% annual interest charge and interest of $187,584 accrued during the year ended 31 March 2024 (2023: $78,926). |
(f) | During the year ended 31 March 2024 and 2023, the Group issued convertible loan notes to existing shareholders of the Company. There were notes outstanding of $3,743,000 at 31 March 2024 (2023: $3,269,000. The loan note bears an 8% annual interest charge and interest of $266,520 accrued during the year ended 31 March 2024 (2023: $80,822). |
16.2 Amounts due from(to) a related company/ immediate holding company
As of 31 March 2024, the amount due to a related company, Compass Limited, of $34,579 (2023: $Nil) related to the deposit for the office lease in Monaco. Compass Limited is a company controlled by Rhino Ventures. An amount due to immediate holding company, Rhino Ventures, of $5,345,929 (2023: $506) which relates advance deposits relating to the $8 million capital raise of the Company from Rhino Ventures. All amounts are unsecured, interest-free and repayable on demand.
There was no outstanding balance from a related company, Diginex (Holdings) Limited, at 31 March 2024 following the write off of $81,347 during the year. The balance outstanding at 31 March 2023 was $41,532. Balance was unsecured, interest-free and repayable on demand.
F-30 |
16.3 Loans from a related company/ immediate holding company
As of 31 March 2024, loans from immediate holding company, Rhino Ventures, are unsecured, charging at an interest rate of 8% per annum and are repayable on 30 June 2024, the repayment dates has been extended from 31 December 2023, which was the due date at 31 March 2023. At 31 March 2024, the outstanding principal amount was $1,664,483 (2023: $2,250,000) and corresponding accrued interest amounted to $266,510 (2023: $78,926) resulting in a total outstanding of $1,930,993 (2023: $2,328,926). Subsequently in May 2024, maturity date of the loans was extended to 30 September 2024.
As of 31 March 2024, loan from a related company, Diginex (Holdings) Limited, are unsecured, charging at an interest rate of 8% per annum and are repayable on 31 December 2024. At 31 March 2024, the outstanding principal amount was $1,000,000 (2023: $1,000,000). At 31 March 2024, interest accrued on the loan amounted to $140,931 (2023: $60,712) resulting in a total outstanding of $1,140,931 (2023: $1,060,712). At 31 March 2023, the loan was classified as due in more than one year.
16.4 Key management compensation
Year ended | Year ended | |||||||
31 March 2024 | 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
Basic salaries, allowances and all benefits-in-kind | 1,514,495 | 1,304,369 | ||||||
Pension costs - defined contribution plans | 7,308 | 7,885 | ||||||
Share-based payments | 1,324,067 | 410,912 | ||||||
2,845,870 | 1,723,166 |
Key management personnel are considered as senior representatives of the Group.
16.5 Amounts due to key management
At 31 March 2024, expense reimbursement of $23,919 was outstanding to key management personnel (31 March 2023: $12,135).
17 preferred shares
In July 2021, DSL allotted 3,000 Series A Preferred Shares to a new shareholder for a consideration of $6,000,000.
Each Preferred Share carries a number of votes equal to that of the ordinary shares then issuable upon its conversion into ordinary shares at the record date for determination of the shareholders entitled to vote on such matters. The holders of Series A Preferred Shares and ordinary shares shall vote together as a single class unless it is required by applicable law or the Company’s Article of Association that Series A Preferred Shares to vote separately as a class.
Conversion right
Each Preferred Share shall automatically be converted into ordinary shares, at the conversion price (i) immediately upon the closing of a qualified initial public offering or (ii) upon the prior written approval of the holders of majority of Series A Preferred Shares (voting together as a single class).
Unless converted earlier pursuant to above,, each holder of Series A Preferred Shares shall have the right, at such holder’s sole discretion, to convert all or any portion of the Series A Preferred Shares into ordinary shares at any time.
In respective of the conversion price, the conversion rate for Series A Preferred Shares shall be determined by dividing the issue price (US$2,000) per share at the time of its issuance (the “Issue Price”) by the conversion price then in effect at the date of the conversion. The initial conversion price will be the Issue Price on first Series A Preferred Share was issued (i.e., a 1-to-1 initial conversion ratio), and such initial conversion price will be subject to adjustments to reflect stock dividends, stock splits and future capital raises at a price per share lower than the conversion price in effect on the date of and immediately prior to such issuance (the “Applicable Conversion Price”). Upon future capital raises at a price per share lower than the Applicable Conversion Price, anti-dilution adjustment will be applied to reduce the Applicable Conversion Price concurrently.
F-31 |
Dividend right and protection provision
Each holder of Series A Preferred Shares shall be entitled to receive dividends, prior and in preference to any declaration or payment of any dividend on the ordinary shares or any other class or series of shares issued by the Company, at the rate of four percent per annum of the applicable issue price of the Series A Preferred Shares, on a non-cumulative basis, for each Series A Preferred Share held by such holder. As part of the protective provision, certain reserved matters of the Company and its subsidiaries shall require the prior written approval of the holders of a majority of Series A Preferred Shares as provided in the Articles of Association of the Company (the “Articles”).
Redemption right
The preferred shares are redeemable at the request of the holders at earlier of (i) a qualified initial public offering has not been consummated on or before the fifth anniversary of the date on which the first Series A Preferred Share was issued; or (ii) a redemption right has been triggered by a materially breach of certain transaction documents by the Company; or (iii) the Company materially fails to comply with applicable laws and regulations. The redemption price (the “Redemption Price”) for each Series A Preferred Share shall be equal to the higher of (i) 100% of the applicable Issue Price for such Series A Preferred Shares and plus all declared but unpaid dividend, or (ii) the then fair market value of such Preferred Share.
Liquidation preference
The Series A Preferred Shares also provided with liquidation preference to its holders in the event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, either voluntary or involuntary or the consummation of a liquidation event as provided in the Articles to recover one hundred percent (100%) of the corresponding Issue Price per Share (such price may be adjusted as necessary) plus all accrued or declared but unpaid dividends.
As at 31 March 2024, the DSL has issued 3,000 Series A Preferred Shares (2023: 3,000), with Recapitalized amount of 2,460,000 Series A Preferred Shares (2023: 2,460,000) and the carrying amount of preferred shares is $9,359,000 (2023: $13,460,000) with fair value gain of $4,101,000 recognized during the year ended 31 March 2024 (2023: loss of $1,841,000). For details of fair value measurement, please refer to note 26.5 to the combined financial statements.
18 CONVERTIBLE LOAN notes (the “notes”)
At 31 March 2024 | At 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
Fair value of the Notes | 3,743,000 | 3,269,000 | ||||||
Accrued interest | 347,342 | 80,822 | ||||||
4,090,342 | 3,349,822 | |||||||
Classified as: | ||||||||
Current liabilities | 3,975,534 | - | ||||||
Non-current liabilities | 114,808 | 3,349,822 | ||||||
4,090,342 | 3,349,822 |
In January 2023, the Company issued a convertible loan note instrument to create unsecured Notes of up to $10,000,000 in aggregate, bears fixed interest rate of 8% per annum. The Notes have a maturity date on the second anniversary of the effective date of the instrument.
The Notes shall automatically convert into ordinary shares at the conversion price on the earlier of the following events, (i) a relevant fund raising, (ii) change of control, or (iii) an initial public offering (“IPO”). Such senior class of shares to be issued to investors in connection with the relevant fund raising or issued at the completion of the change of control or IPO.
During the year ended 31 March 2024, a Note with a face value of $100,000 was issued resulting in an aggregate face value of $3,350,000 as of 31 March 2024. During the year ended 31 March 2023, Notes with face values of $1,000,000, $1,000,000, $1,000,000 and $250,000 were issued in August 2022, January 2023, March 2023 and March 2023, respectively, with aggregate face value of $3,250,000 issued as of 31 March 2023. Fair value loss of $374,000 was recognized during the year ended 31 March 2024 (2023: loss of 19,000).
For details of fair value measurement, please refer to note 26.5 to the combined financial statements.
F-32 |
19 LEASE LIABILITIES
During the year ended 31 March 2024, the Company entered into a lease that expires on 1 January 2027. The quarterly rent is 31,316 Euros ($34,580). The lease is adjusted annually by an indexation factor and has an annual break clause. The quarterly rent is adjusted and increased to 32,091 Euros ($34,905) from February 2024.
Changes in lease liability is as follows:
At 31 March | At 31 March | |||||||
2024 | 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
At 1 April | - | - | ||||||
Increase in lease liability | 482,619 | - | ||||||
Interest expense (note 8) | 18,328 | - | ||||||
Lease modification adjustment | (25,837 | ) | ||||||
Reduction in lease liability | (109,754 | ) | - | |||||
365,356 | - |
Classified in the combined statements of financial position as follows:
At 31 March | At 31 March | |||||||
2024 | 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
Current | 122,076 | - | ||||||
Non-current | 243,280 | - | ||||||
365,356 | - |
Maturity of lease liabilities is as follows:
At 31 March | At 31 March | |||||||
2024 | 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
Not later than one year | 139,619 | - | ||||||
Later than one year and not later than five years | 255,969 | - | ||||||
395,588 | - | |||||||
Finance costs | (30,232 | ) | - | |||||
Present value of minimum lease payments | 365,356 | - |
The lease commitments have been discounted to calculate a present value of commitments using a cost of capital rate of 5.88%.
F-33 |
20 SHARE CAPITAL
Under a deemed reverse acquisition (as discussed in note 3), the historical shareholders’ equity of DSL, being the accounting acquirer (legal acquiree) prior to the Transaction is retrospectively adjusted to reflect the legal capital structure of the accounting acquiree (legal acquirer) and the Share Subdivision. This is calculated by using the exchange ratio as determined on the completion of the Transaction being 410 shares in the Company for each DSL share and multiplying by 2 for the impact of Share subdivision. The difference in value of the share capital arising from this conversion versus the share capital amount in DSLK is recorded in equity under the capital reserve.
The Shares of the Company have a par value of $0.00005 after the Share Subdivision.
Share capital | ||||||||||||||||||
Share Capital | Capital | net of capital | ||||||||||||||||
Notes | Shares | Amount | reserve | reserve | ||||||||||||||
USD | USD | USD | ||||||||||||||||
Balance at 1 April 2022 and 31 March 2023 pre-capitalized | 11,582 | 3,725,301 | - | 3,725,301 | ||||||||||||||
Share exchange of DSL (1:410 exchange ratio) | (a) | 4,737,038 | (3,724,826 | ) | 3,724,826 | - | ||||||||||||
Sub-total | 4,748,620 | 475 | 3,724,826 | 3,725,301 | ||||||||||||||
Share Subdivision | (b) | 4,748,620 | - | - | - | |||||||||||||
Balance at 31 March 2023 Recapitalized | 9,497,240 | 475 | 3,724,826 | 3,725,301 | ||||||||||||||
Balance at 1 April 2023 | 11,582 | 3,725,301 | - | 3,725,301 | ||||||||||||||
Exercise of share option awards | (c) | 44 | 27,368 | - | 27,368 | |||||||||||||
Balance at 31 March 2024 pre-recapitalized | 11,626 | 3,752,669 | - | 3,752,669 | ||||||||||||||
Share exchange of DSL (1:410 exchange ratio) | (a) | 4,755,034 | (3,752,192 | ) | 3,752,192 | - | ||||||||||||
Sub-total | 4,766,660 | 477 | 3,752,192 | 3,752,669 | ||||||||||||||
Founding share of the Company | 1 | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||
Sub-total | 4,766,661 | 477 | 3,752,192 | 3,752,669 | ||||||||||||||
Share Subdivision | (b) | 4,766,661 | - | - | - | |||||||||||||
Balance at 31 March 2024 Recapitalized | 9,533,322 | 477 | 3,752,192 | 3,752,669 |
Notes: |
(a) | On 15 July 2024, the Company completed a Share Exchange Transaction (the “Transaction”) with DSL and each of the shareholders of DSL. Prior to the Transaction, the Company had issued one founding share with a par value of USD 0.0001 and was a newly incorporated entity without material business activities, while DSL was the parent of the Diginex group of companies (“DSL Group”). The Transaction resulted in the Company becoming the immediate holding company of DSL Group and DSL became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. The Transaction resulted in one share in DSL being exchanged for four hundred and ten (410) shares in the Company. |
(b) | On 26 July 2024, the authorized share capital of the Company changed to USD50,000 divided into 960,000,000 Ordinary Shares of USD0.00005 par value each and 40,000,000 Preferred Shares of USD0.00005 par value each (the “Share Subdivision”). The Share Subdivision resulted in the shareholding of each Company shareholder increasing by a multiple of two. |
(c) | In October 2023, DSL issued 44 shares to an employee via the exercising of vested employee share options. These shares rank pari passu with the existing ordinary shares of DSL in all respects. These shares equate to 36,080 shares post the Recapitalization. |
314 ordinary shares issued by DSL in March 2022, with recapitalized amount of 257,480 ordinary shares, were issued with conditions. The conditions were based on the use of funds and the provision of information by DSL to the shareholder. Should any conditions not be met then there is a 30-day remediation period to resolve the issue. If such issues cannot be resolved the shareholder can demand DSL to buy back the investment at the higher of the fair value of the investment or the initial investment value. Such conditions lapse on an IPO of the Company or DSL. Management considers the possibility of such an outcome to be remote and the fair value of the option to redeem the investment to be immaterial.
F-34 |
21 OTHER RESERVES
Nature and purpose of reserves
21.1 Capital reserve
The capital reserve arises from the recapitalization of the Group with the Company’s share capital issued as part of the Transaction and the impact of the Share Subdivision. This reserve ensures that the total shareholders equity both pre- and post-Transaction and the Share Subdivision remains the same as that of the DSL Group immediately before the Transaction and Share Subdivision.
21.2 Share option reserve
The share option reserve comprises of the fair value of share options that have yet to vest.
21.2 Exchange reserve
Exchange reserve comprises all foreign exchange differences arising from the translation of the financial statement of foreign operation. The reserve is dealt with in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 4.
21.3 Accumulated losses
Accumulated losses are the cumulative net loss of the Group sustained in the business.
22 DIVIDEND
No dividends were declared or paid during each of the years ended 31 March 2024 and 202
23 SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS
The board of directors of DSL (the “Board”) approved and adopted the Share Option Award Scheme (the “Scheme”) which outlines the grant of share option award (the “Award”) to selected employees and/or consultants of the Group (the “Participant”) to subscribe ordinary shares of DSL (the “Share”). The Board may determine the Participant and grant Shares under the Scheme not exceeding 15% of issued shares in DSL on a fully diluted basis. Purpose of the Scheme is to attract and retain the best available talent for the Company to benefit its business operations.
DSL may grant the Participant an Award consisting in the right to acquire or receive a certain number, or a percentage, of Shares (the “Ownership Stake”) determined in the Scheme (each event being an “Award Grant”). The Award Grant shall vest after thirty-six (36) calendar months of continuous employment with, or service to, DSL or of any of its affiliates (the “Vesting Date”). Unless exercised, the Award will lapse and expire after six (6) calendar months from the Vesting Date (“Long Stop Date”).
The number of Shares the Participant is entitled to under an Award Grant shall be determined at the Vesting Date. The vesting of the Award Grant shall confer to the Participant the same shareholding percentage in DSL as the Ownership Stake. Unless determined at the time of the Award Grant, such shareholding shall be calculated based on the total number of Shares issued at the Vesting Date.
Prior to the Long Stop Date, should DSL give notice of: 1) merger or acquisition or similar event involving change of control of the Company; or 2) listing of its shares on a recognized and regulated stock exchange, all Awards, whether vested or unvested, shall be: 1) (i) automatically exchanged for equivalent options over or in relation to shares in the acquirer entity or listed company; or (ii) cancelled in exchange for, and automatically converted to, shares in the acquiring entity or listed company in equivalent value as the value under the Option Grant, which will be locked-up for a period of 15 months from the date of change of control or listing, respectively, (the “Lock-up Period”) and will be released in three (3) equal instalments over a period of six (6) months following the expiration of such Lock-up Period.
The Award Grant shall be forfeited and cancelled if before the Vesting Date: (a) the Participant hands in a notice of resignation; (b) the Participant gives notice of termination of service; or (c) the Participant’s employment or service with the Company is terminated for any reason, unless otherwise determined by the Board in its sole and absolute discretion.
During the year, the Board approved to extend the Long Stop Date to nine (9) calendar months from the Vesting Date and shorten the Lock-up Period to a period twelve (12) months from the change of control or listing in December 2023. In March 2024, the Board further approved to extend the Long Stop Date to twelve (12) calendar months from the Vesting Date.
Details of the Awards granted during the year:
% of share option award | Fair value per option at | |||||||||||||
Grant date | to vest | Vesting period | grant date | |||||||||||
From | To | USD | ||||||||||||
25-Apr-2022 | * | 0.10 | % | 25-Apr-2022 | 31-Mar-2023 | 3,218 | ||||||||
25-May-2022 | 0.10 | % | 25-May-2022 | 5-Nov-2023 | 3,218 | |||||||||
26-Sep-2022 | * | 1.00 | % | 26-Sep-2022 | 25-Sep-2025 | 3,488 | ||||||||
18-Oct-2022 | ** | 0.10 | % | 18-Oct-2022 | 1-Sep-2024 | 3,515 | ||||||||
23-Nov-2022 | ** | 0.20 | % | 23-Nov-2022 | 1-Jul-2023 | 3,570 | ||||||||
12-Jan-2023 | ** | 0.05 | % | 12-Jan-2023 | 1-Jul-2023 | 3,646 | ||||||||
1-May-2023 | *** | 1.00 | % | 1-May-2023 | 30-Apr-2026 | 3,543 | ||||||||
8-Aug-2023 | *** | 2.40 | % | 8-Aug-2023 | 8-Aug-2023 | 2,837 | ||||||||
1-Sep-2023 | *** | 0.20 | % | 1-Sep-2023 | 30-Apr-2026 | 2,666 |
* | Fair value of the Awards as of 25 April 2022 and 26 September 2022 is approximated to that as of 1 April 2022 and 30 September 2022, respectively. |
** | Fair values of the Awards as of 18 October 2022, 23 November 2022 and 12 January 2023 are determined using interpolation method between the fair values determined on 30 September 2022 and 31 March 2023. |
*** | Fair values of the Awards as of 1 May 2023, 8 August 2023 and 1 September 2023 are determined using interpolation method between the fair values determined on 31 March 2023 and 30 September 2023. |
F-35 |
Number of unvested shares (based on number of DSL’s shares-in-issue at the end of each reporting period):
Number of unvested shares | ||||
USD | ||||
At 1 April 2022 | 1,404 | |||
Additions | 141 | |||
At 31 March 2023 | 1,545 | |||
At 31 March 2023 recapitalized | 1,266,900 | |||
At 1 April 2023 | 1,545 | |||
Additions | 389 | |||
Vested | (1,727 | ) | ||
At 31 March 2024 | 207 | |||
At 31 March 2024 recapitalized | 169,749 |
Movement of share option reserve:
Share option reserve | ||||
USD | ||||
At 1 April 2022 | 499,808 | |||
Additions | 584,462 | |||
At 31 March 2023 | 1,084,270 | |||
Additions | 1,352,787 | |||
Exercised | (27,368 | ) | ||
At 31 March 2024 | 2,409,689 |
The fair value of the Awards granted is estimated at the grant date using discounted cash flow (“DCF”) and equity allocation model (“EAM”). The following table lists the inputs to those models at respective grant date:
Dates of fair value | Valuation approach | Discount rate | Terminal growth rate | Lack of marketability discount | Lack of control discount | Volatility | ||||||||||||||||
1-Apr-2022 | DCF & EAM | 17 | % | 3 | % | 15 | % | 20 | % | 41.16 | % | |||||||||||
25-May-2022 | DCF & EAM | 17 | % | 3 | % | 15 | % | 20 | % | 41.16 | % | |||||||||||
30-Sep-2022 | DCF & EAM | 17 | % | 3 | % | 15 | % | 20 | % | 44.16 | % | |||||||||||
31-Mar-2023 | DCF & EAM | 17 | % | 3 | % | 15 | % | 20 | % | 46.62 | % | |||||||||||
30-Sep-2023 | DCF & EAM | 18 | % | 3 | % | 10 | % | 20 | % | 42.41 | % |
The equity value at 100% basis is determined using DCF method based on the estimates of cash flows as of the grant date discounted using an appropriate discount rate, having considered relevant risk factors. Given there are no new grants of the Awards since 30 September 2023, no additional valuation of the Awards is therefore required post this date.
F-36 |
24 RECONCILIATION OF LIABILITIES ARISING FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
The table below details changes in the Group’s liabilities arising from financing activities, including both cash and non-cash changes. Liabilities arising from financing activities are those for which cash flows were, or future cash flows will be, classified in the Group’s combined statement of cash flows as cash flows from financing activities.
Preferred shares | Convertible loan notes | Amount due from immediate holding company | Amount due from a related company | Loan from immediate holding company | Loan from a related company | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
US$ | US$ | US$ | US$ | US$ | US$ | US$ | ||||||||||||||||||||||
At 1 April 2022 | 11,619,000 | - | 506 | - | - | - | 11,619,506 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Financing cash flows | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Additions | - | 3,250,000 | 600,000 | - | 2,250,000 | 1,000,000 | 7,100,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Repayments | - | - | (600,000 | ) | - | - | - | (600,000 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Interest expenses | - | 80,822 | - | - | 78,926 | 60,712 | 220,460 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fair value adjustments | 1,841,000 | 19,000 | - | - | - | - | 1,860,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
At 31 March 2023 | 13,460,000 | 3,349,822 | 506 | - | 2,328,926 | 1,060,712 | 20,199,966 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Financing cash flows | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Additions | - | 100,000 | 5,345,423 | - | 564,483 | - | 6,009,906 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Repayments | - | - | - | - | (1,150,000 | ) | - | (1,150,000 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Non-cash transaction | - | - | - | 34,579 | - | - | 34,579 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Interest expenses | - | 266,520 | - | - | 187,584 | 80,219 | 534,323 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fair value adjustments | (4,101,000 | ) | 374,000 | - | - | - | - | (3,727,000 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
At 31 March 2024 | 9,359,000 | 4,090,342 | 5,345,929 | 34,579 | 1,930,993 | 1,140,931 | 21,901,774 |
25 SUBSIDIARIES
The Group’s subsidiaries on March 31, 2024, from an financial reporting perspective following the Recapitalization, are set out below. Unless otherwise stated, they have share capital consisting solely of ordinary shares that are held directly by the Group. The country of incorporation or registration is also their principal business place of business. Particulars of the subsidiaries as of March 31, 2024 are as follows:
Name of entity | Place of Incorporation and operation | Principal activities | Particulars of issued/registered share capital | Percentage of ownership interest | ||||
Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited* | Hong Kong | Provision of ESG reporting solutions services | 11,626 ordinary shares and 3,000 preferred shares Issued | Direct 100% (2023: 100%) | ||||
Diginex USA, LLC | United States of America | Provision of ESG reporting solutions services | 1,000 Class A Units of $10 each | Indirect 100% (2023: 100%) | ||||
Diginex Services Limited | United Kingdom | Provision of ESG reporting solutions services | Ordinary shares of 1 pence each | Indirect 100% (2023: 100%) |
* Legally became a subsidiary of the Company on 15 July 2024.
F-37 |
26 FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT
26.1 Market risk factors
The Group’s activities expose it to a variety of market risks: foreign currency risk, interest rate risk and liquidation risk. The Group’s overall risk management program focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to minimize potential adverse effects on the Group’s financial performance.
The risks are minimized by the financial management policies and practices described below.
26.1.2 Foreign currency risk
The Group operates primarily in USD and HKD, albeit there is an increasing exposure to GBP and Euro. Given USD and HKD are pegged within a range, the Group had a reduced exposure to foreign currency risk during the year. Given the increasing exposure to other currencies, the Group will formalize a foreign currency hedging policy in respect of foreign currency transactions, assets and liabilities. The Group monitors its foreign currency exposure closely and will consider hedging significant foreign currency exposure to manage the risk. The material balance sheet items are denominated in USD and as such no sensitivity analysis on the impact of foreign exchange movements has been performed.
26.1.3 Interest rate risk
The Group has minimal interest rate risk because there are no significant borrowings at variable interest rates. The Group currently does not have an interest rate hedging policy. However, the management monitors interest rate exposure and will consider other necessary actions when significant interest rate exposure is anticipated. The Group’s cash flow interest rate risk relates primarily to variable-rate bank balances. The exposure to the interest rate risk for variable rate bank balances is insignificant as the bank balances have a short maturity period.
26.2 Credit risk
The Group has exposure to credit risk arising from deposits in banks as well as trade receivables. Credit risk is managed on a Group basis.
The amount of the Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk is the amount of the Group’s carrying value of the related financial assets and liabilities as of the end of the reporting period.
26.2.1 Deposits with bank
With respect to the Group’s deposit with bank, the Group limits its exposure to credit risk by placing deposits with financial institution with high credit rating and no recent history of default. Given the high credit ratings of the banks, management does not expect any counterparty to fail to meet its obligations. Management will continue to monitor the position and will take appropriate action if their ratings are changed. As at 31 March 2024 and 2023, the Group had a concentration of deposits with one bank but does have additional banking relationships to mitigate any concentration risk.
Despite the Group having a banking relationship with Signature Bank, the collapse of the bank in March 2023 did not significantly affect the Group’s finances. This is due to the fact that the Group had a minimal bank balance held at Signature Bank.
F-38 |
26.3 Liquidity risk
26.3.1 Financing arrangement
The Group monitors its cash position on a regular basis and manages cash and cash equivalents to finance the Group’s operations. The Group has been primarily financed via the proceeds from the issuance of equity, issuance of convertible loan notes and access to a shareholder loan.
As of 31 March 2024, the Group’s current liabilities exceeded its current assets by $13,720,318 and the Group was in net liabilities of $23,009,868. Despite the need for the Group to raise additional capital and/or reduced expenses as necessary based on the future cash flow projections over the coming 12 months, as mentioned in note 2.1, management believe that the Group will be able to raise finances and management is able to control or reduce cash outflows by reducing cost base of the Group in order to meet its financial obligations as and when they fall due within the next twelve months from the end of the reporting period.
26.3.2 Maturities of financial liabilities
The table below analyses the Group’s financial liabilities into relevant maturity groupings based on the remaining period at the end of each financial reporting period to the contractual maturity dates. The amounts disclosed in the table are the contractual undiscounted cash flows.
Within 1 year | 1-5 years | Total | ||||||||||
USD | USD | USD | ||||||||||
At 31 March 2024 | ||||||||||||
Accounts payable | 788,798 | - | 788,798 | |||||||||
Other payables and accruals | 596,870 | - | 596,870 | |||||||||
Tax payables | 8,917 | - | 8,917 | |||||||||
Deferred revenue | 322,826 | - | 322,826 | |||||||||
Due to a related company | 34,579 | - | 34,579 | |||||||||
Due to immediate holding company | 5,345,929 | - | 5,345,929 | |||||||||
Loan from immediate holding company | 1,930,993 | - | 1,930,993 | |||||||||
Loan from a related company | 1,140,931 | - | 1,140,931 | |||||||||
Lease liabilities | 122,076 | 243,280 | 365,356 | |||||||||
Preferred shares | - | 9,359,000 | 9,359,000 | |||||||||
Convertible loan notes | 3,975,534 | 114,808 | 4,090,342 | |||||||||
14,267,453 | 9,717,088 | 23,984,541 | ||||||||||
At 31 March 2023 | ||||||||||||
Accounts payable | 187,584 | - | 187,584 | |||||||||
Other payables and accruals | 349,197 | - | 349,197 | |||||||||
Deferred revenue | 335,666 | - | 335,666 | |||||||||
Amount due to immediate holding company | 506 | - | 506 | |||||||||
Loan from immediate holding company | 2,328,926 | - | 2,328,926 | |||||||||
Loan from a related company | - | 1,060,712 | 1,060,712 | |||||||||
Preferred shares | - | 13,460,000 | 13,460,000 | |||||||||
Convertible loan notes | - | 3,349,822 | 3,349,822 | |||||||||
3,201,879 | 17,870,534 | 21,072,413 |
F-39 |
26.4 Capital risk
The Group’s objectives when managing capital are to safeguard the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern and to maximize the return to the shareholders through the optimization of the debt and equity balance.
The Group manages its capital structure and adjusts it in light of changes in economic conditions. To maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Group may issue new shares or other instruments. No changes were made in the objectives, policies or processes for managing capital during the years ended 31 March 2024 and 2023.
26.5 Fair values measurements
26.5.1 Fair value hierarchy
This section explains the judgements and estimates made in determining the fair values of financial instruments in the combined financial statements. To provide an indication about the reliability of the inputs used in determining fair value, the Group has classified its financial instruments and non-financial assets into the three levels prescribed under the accounting standards. An explanation of each level is set out in Note 3. There is no transfer between level 1, 2 or 3 during both years.
Fair value measurements using level 3 | At 31 March 2024 | At 31 March 2023 | ||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
Recurring fair value | ||||||||
Preferred shares | 9,359,000 | 13,460,000 | ||||||
Convertible loan notes | 3,743,000 | 3,269,000 |
26.5.2 Valuation techniques used to determine fair values
Below lists the valuation techniques and key inputs used by the Group to value its Level 3 financial instruments. There has been no change in valuation technique during the year ended 31 March 2024 and 2023.
Financial instruments | Amount as at 31 March 2024 | Amount as at 31 March 2023 | Valuation techniques and key inputs | |||||||
Preferred shares (Note 1) | $ | 9,359,000 | $ | 13,460,000 | The Discounted Cash Flows (“DCF”) method was used to determine the total
equity value of the Group by capturing the present value of the expected cash flows. Equity allocation model was then used to allocate the total equity value of the Group to different classes of shares of the Company. | |||||
Convertible loan notes (Note 2) | $ | 3,743,000 | $ | 3,269,000 | Binomial Option Pricing Model |
Notes:
1. | An increase in the revenue growth rate used in isolation would result in an increase in the fair value measurement of the preferred shares, and vice versa, while a slight increase in the discount rate used in isolation would result in a decrease in the fair value measurement of the preferred shares, and vice versa. A 1% (2023: 1%) increase in the discount rate holding all other variables constant would decrease the carry amount of the preferred shares by $0.9 million (2023: $1.4 million) while a 1% (2023: 1%) decrease in the discount rate holding all other variables constant would increase the carry amount of the preferred shares by $1.1 million (2023: $1.6 million). A 1% (2023: 1%) increase in the revenue growth rate holding all other variables constant would increase the carry amount of the preferred shares by $0.6 million (2023: $1.1 million) while a 1% (2023: 1%) decrease in the discount rate holding all other variables constant would decrease the carry amount of the preferred shares by $0.6 million (2023: $1.1 million). |
2. | A 1% increase in the discount rate used in isolation would result in a minimal decrease in the fair value measurement of the convertible loan notes, and vice versa. |
F-40 |
26.5.3 Reconciliation of Level 3 fair value measurements
At 31 March 2024 | At 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
At 1 April | 16,729,000 | 11,619,000 | ||||||
Additions | 100,000 | 3,250,000 | ||||||
Fair value adjustments | (3,727,000 | ) | 1,860,000 | |||||
At 31 March | 13,102,000 | 16,729,000 |
26.5.4 Financial assets and financial liabilities measured at amortized cost
The financial assets and financial liabilities in the table below are measured at amortized cost. Management believes the carrying amounts of these financial assets and liabilities measured at amortized cost approximate their fair values.
At 31 March 2024 | At 31 March 2023 | |||||||
USD | USD | |||||||
Financial assets | ||||||||
Trade receivables | 182,334 | 289,788 | ||||||
Other receivables | 184,018 | 142 | ||||||
Contract assets | 69,354 | 26,989 | ||||||
Due from a related company | - | 41,532 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 76,620 | 1,183,176 | ||||||
512,326 | 1,541,627 | |||||||
Financial liabilities | ||||||||
Trade payables | 788,798 | 187,584 | ||||||
Other payables | 11,057 | 5,081 | ||||||
Tax payables | 8,917 | - | ||||||
Due to related companies | 34,579 | - | ||||||
Due to immediate holding company | 5,345,929 | 506 | ||||||
Loan from a related company | 1,930,993 | 2,328,926 | ||||||
Loans from immediate holding company | 1,140,931 | 1.060,713 | ||||||
Lease liabilities | 365,356 | - | ||||||
9,626,560 | 3,582,809 |
F-41 |
27 SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
In accordance with IAS 10 “Events after the Reporting Period”, which establishes general standards of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued, the Company has evaluated all events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date, up through the date the Company issued the financial statements.
● | In April 2024, the Company issued 44 shares to an employee via the exercising of vesting employee share options.
| |
● | In May 2024, the Group completed an $8.0 million capital raise with its immediate holding company, Rhino Ventures, which was settled by advances of cash of $6.1 million and the conversion of loans from immediate holding company of $1.9 million. Upon the completion of the capital raise, the Company allotted 5,086 ordinary shares and 10,172 warrants to Rhino Ventures. Both the ordinary shares and warrants are accounted for as equity instruments under IAS 32 and IFRS 9 and recognized by crediting share capital and warrant reserve, respectively. The warrants have a fair value of $6.7 million and $1.3 million being allocated to share capital with a total value recognized in reserves of $8.0 million. This capital raise triggered an anti-dilution clause in the Articles of Association which resulted in 151 preferred shares being issued to HBM IV, Inc.
| |
● | In May 2024, maturity date of the loans from immediate holding company was extended to 30 September 2024. On 29 September 2024, the maturity date was further extended to 30 November 2024.
| |
● | On July 15, 2024, Diginex Limited and Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited (“DSL”) completed a Transaction pursuant to a share exchange agreement (the “Share Exchange Agreement”), whereby the then existing shareholders of DSL (the “Original Shareholders”) transferred all of their shares in DSL to Diginex Limited, in consideration for Diginex Limited’s issuance of substantially the same securities to such shareholders in exchange for the securities of DSL held by Original Shareholders (the “Exchange”). Prior to the Exchange there were 16,756 ordinary shares of DSL issued and outstanding, 3,151 preferred shares of DSL issued and outstanding and 10,172 warrants of DSL issued and outstanding. In the Exchange, each of the securities of DSL were exchanged for substantially the same securities of Diginex Limited at an exchange ratio of one (1) ordinary share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited , one (1) preferred share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Preferred Shares of Diginex Limited and one (1) warrant of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) warrants of Diginex Limited.
In connection with the Exchange, Diginex Limited and security holders of DSL consummated the following transactions (the “Ancillary Transactions”): (i) Diginex Limited issued $4.35 million new convertible loan notes to certain Original Shareholders in consideration for the cancellation of the then existing convertible loan notes issued by DSL and held by such Original Shareholders; (ii) Diginex Limited granted certain share options under the new share option plan that was adopted by Diginex Limited to the holders of the unexercised share options granted by DSL (the “Original Share Options”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Share Options held by such holders. At time of the Exchange there were 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting and (iii) Diginex Limited granted certain warrants to purchase Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited to the holders of the then existing warrants to purchase ordinary shares of DSL (the “Original Warrants”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Warrants held by such holders. The convertible loan notes will automatically convert into Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited upon the effectiveness of this registration statement and whilst there is no automatic vesting of any unvested share options upon completion of this Offering the board of directors, at their discretion, do have the ability to accelerate vesting at any point. At the time of this registration statement there was no confirmation if the board of directors will accelerate vesting. The fair value of all unvested ESOP as of the date of this audit report is $1.8 million of which $0.2 million was recognized in the combined financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2024.
Accordingly, upon consummation of the Exchange and the Ancillary Transactions (collectively the “Restructuring”), DSL became a wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited, and the prior shareholders of DSL became shareholders of Diginex Limited. The remaining DSL security holders became security holders of Diginex Limited, in that they held Diginex Limited convertible loan notes, share options and warrants. Following, the closing of the Restructuring there is 6,869,961 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited issued and outstanding, 1,291,910 preferred shares of Diginex Limited issued and outstanding, 4,179,520 warrants issued and outstanding, $4.35 million new convertible loan notes issued and outstanding and 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting.
Following the Restructuring, on July 26, 2024, the Company completed a share subdivision (the “Share Subdivision”) such that, the authorized share capital of the Company was revised to be US$50,000 divided into 960,000,000 Ordinary Shares of US$0.00005 par value each and 40,000,000 preferred shares (the “Preferred Shares”), par value US$0.00005 per share. Prior to the Share Subdivision there were 6,869,961 ordinary shares and 1,291,910 preferred shares issued and outstanding, and after the Share Subdivision there are 13,739,922 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding.
During the Restructuring, a $1 million loan due from DSL to a related company, Diginex Holdings Limited, a company controlled by Rhino Ventures Limited, was converted into a $1 million convertible loan note of which Rhino Ventures Limited holds $517,535 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note and Working Capital Innovation Fund II L.P. holds $482,465 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note. The loan between DSL and Diginex Holdings Limited charged interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. The terms of the new convertible loan notes also charge interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. This $1 million convertible loan note forms part of the $4.35 million loan notes issued by Diginex Limited post the Restructuring.
On August 6, 2024 certain Employee Share Option Plan (“ESOP”) holders exercised their options and converted their options into Ordinary Shares. 501,840 employee share options were converted into 1,003,680 Ordinary Shares whilst 109,470 employee share options lapsed without being exercised. In addition, 368,826 employee share options were issued on July 31, 2024 with a fair value of $773,723. On August 21, 2024 employee share options were issued to 0.5% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting with a fair value of $182,660 The fair value of the options will be expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, or earlier if the vesting period is accelerated by the board of directors, with a corresponding increase in equity (share option reserve). As of the date of these combined financial statements, the remaining employee share options are 41,945 vested but not exercised, 368,826 unvested employee share options and unvested employee share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.7% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting and the aggregate fair value of all unvested employee share options is $1.8 million of which $0.2 million was recognized in the statement of profit or loss as of March 31, 2024. Prior to the exercise of 501,840 options on August 6, 2024 there were 13,739,922 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding, and after such exercise of 501,840 options there are 14,743,602 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding. | |
On August 3, 2024, Diginex Limited and HBM IV, Inc. entered into a Deed of Amendment to extend the maturity date of a $ 1 million convertible loan noted entered into between the parties on July 15, 2024 that had a maturity date of August 3, 2024. The maturity date has been extended to November 3, 2024. | ||
On 30 September 2024, Rhino Ventures, Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited and Diginex Limited entered into an agreement whereby the outstanding loan between Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited and Rhino Ventures will, upon pricing of the Diginex Limited IPO, convert into ordinary shares of Diginex Limited. The loan will convert into Diginex Limited ordinary shares at the IPO price. |
F-42 |
DIGINEX LIMITED
2,992,180 Ordinary Shares
DIGINEX LIMITED
Ordinary Shares
PROSPECTUS
[ ] , 2024
No dealer, salesperson or any other person is authorized to give any information or make any representations in connection with this Offering other than those contained in this prospectus and, if given or made, the information or representations must not be relied upon as having been authorized by us. This prospectus does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security other than the securities offered by this prospectus, or an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities by anyone in any jurisdiction in which the offer or solicitation is not authorized or is unlawful.
The information in this preliminary prospectus is not complete and may be changed. These securities may not be sold until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This preliminary prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities nor does it seek an offer to buy these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted.
PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS (Subject to Completion)
Dated _______, 2024
DIGINEX LIMITED
2,992,180 Ordinary Shares
This Resale Prospectus relates to the resale of 2,992,180 Ordinary Shares in aggregate by the Selling Shareholder named in this prospectus. We will not receive any of the proceeds from the sale of Ordinary Shares by the Selling Shareholders named in this prospectus.
Any shares sold by the Selling Shareholders covered by this prospectus will only occur after the trading of our Ordinary Shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market, and begins at prevailing market prices or in privately negotiated prices. No sales of the shares covered by this prospectus shall occur until after completion of our initial public offering. The distribution of securities offered hereby may be effected in one or more transactions that may take place in ordinary brokers’ transactions, privately negotiated transactions or through sales to one or more dealers for resale of such securities as principals. The Selling Shareholders will sell their shares at prevailing market prices or in privately negotiated prices. Usual and customary or specifically negotiated brokerage fees or commissions may be paid by the Selling Shareholders. The date of effectiveness of this registration statement is [●], 2024.
The Ordinary Shares registered for resale as part of this Resale Prospectus, once registered, will constitute a considerable percentage of our public float. The sales of a substantial number of registered shares could result in a significant decline in the public trading price of our Ordinary Shares and could impair our ability to raise capital through the sale or issuance of additional Ordinary Shares. We are unable to predict the effect that such sales may have on the prevailing market price of our Ordinary Shares. Despite such a decline in the public trading price, certain Selling Shareholders may still experience a positive rate of return on the Ordinary Shares due to the lower price that they purchased the Ordinary Shares compared to other public investors and may be incentivized to sell their Ordinary Shares when others are not. See “Risk Factors — The future sales of Ordinary Shares by existing shareholders, including the sales pursuant to the Resale Prospectus, may adversely affect the market price of our Ordinary Share.”
Prior to this Offering, there has been no public market for our Ordinary Shares of par value US$0.00005 each (the “Ordinary Shares”). It is currently estimated that the initial public offering price per Ordinary Share will be between $4.00 and $6.00. We have applied to list our Ordinary Shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “DGNX” We cannot guarantee that we will be successful in listing our Ordinary Shares on Nasdaq. This offering is conditioned upon the successful listing of our Ordinary Shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market. If the Nasdaq Capital Market does not approve our listing application this initial public offering will not be consummated.
The Ordinary Shares registered for resale as part of the Resale Prospectus, once registered, will constitute a considerable percentage of our public float. The sales of a substantial number of registered shares could result in a significant decline in the public trading price of our Ordinary Shares and could impair our ability to raise capital through the sale or issuance of additional Ordinary Shares. We are unable to predict the effect that such sales may have on the prevailing market price of our Ordinary Shares. Despite such a decline in the public trading price, certain Selling Shareholders may still experience a positive rate of return on the Ordinary Shares due to the lower price that they purchased the Ordinary Shares compared to other public investors and may be incentivized to sell their Ordinary Shares when others are not. See “Risk Factors — The future sales of Ordinary Shares by existing shareholders, including the sales pursuant to the Resale Prospectus, may adversely affect the market price of our Ordinary Shares.”
Immediately prior to the completion of this offering, our issued and outstanding share capital will consist of Ordinary Shares and Preferred Shares. We will not be considered a “controlled company” under Nasdaq corporate governance rules as we do not currently expect that more than 50% of our voting power will be held by an individual, a group or another company immediately following the consummation of this offering and the sale of our Ordinary Shares by the Selling Shareholders pursuant to the Resale Prospectus filed contemporaneously herewith. Nonetheless, following the consummation of this offering, our directors, officers and principal shareholders will hold in aggregate approximately [ ]% or more of our Ordinary Shares. As a result, these shareholders, if they act together, will be able to control the management and affairs of our Company.
Investing in the Ordinary Shares involves risks. See section titled “Risk Factors” of this prospectus.
We are both an “emerging growth company” and a “foreign private issuer” under applicable U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission rules and will be eligible for reduced public company disclosure requirements. See section titled “Prospectus Summary — Implications of Being an ‘Emerging Growth Company’ and a ‘Foreign Private Issuer’” for additional information.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any other regulatory body has approved or disapproved of these securities or passed upon the adequacy or accuracy of this prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
The date of this Resale Prospectus is , 2024
PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
This summary highlights selected information and does not contain all of the information that is important to you. This summary is qualified in its entirety by the more detailed information included in this prospectus. Before making your investment decision with respect to our securities, you should carefully read this entire prospectus, any applicable prospectus supplement and the documents referred to in “Where You Can Find More Information”.
Unless the context indicates otherwise, the terms the “Company,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to Diginex Limited and its subsidiaries, after giving effect to the Restructuring described elsewhere in this prospectus whereby Diginex Limited owns DSL. “DSL” refers to Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited, a Hong Kong corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries.
The Company
Current Business Lines
DSL is the wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited. Accordingly, Diginex Limited owns 100% of DSL and all of DSL’s business lines and subsidiaries.
DSL is an impact technology business that helps organizations to address the some of the most pressing Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”), climate and sustainability issues, utilizing blockchain, machine learning and data analysis technology to lead change and increase transparency in corporate social responsibility and climate action. Our products and services solutions enable companies to collect, evaluate and share sustainability data through easy-to-use software. DSL’s principal executive office is in Hong Kong where the CEO, CFO and CTO are based. The Hong Kong office is in a co-working shared space facility with 9 seats and the Hong Kong based employees operate under a hybrid model as they work both from the office and from home with the majority of working hours spent working from home. There is also an executive office in Monaco that is used by the Chairman and COO. DSL has subsidiaries in the United Kingdom and United States, however the subsidiary in the United States is inactive. DSL also outsources a component of IT development and maintenance support to engineers in Vietnam.
DSL has built several accessible, affordable and intelligent products to help democratize sustainability and offers multiple supporting services to complement the product suite.
DSL’s suite of products includes the following:
digninexESG: is an accredited Hong Kong Monetary Authority award winning cloud based ESG platform that offers end to end reporting from topic discovery, data collection to collaborative report publishing. Our diginexESG platform is ISO-27001 Certified (an international standard to manage information security), official partner of Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), World Economic Forum and signatory of the United Nations Principles of Responsible Investment (UN PRI).
The diginexESG platform guides companies through the entire ESG journey; from materiality assessment & stakeholder engagement, framework & indicator selection, the data collection and collaboration process, report creation, validation and ultimately report publishing. By leveraging machine learning and data analytics, diginexESG is able to drive material efficiencies in the reporting process, and the blockchain-enabled audit trail, whereby a record of each data activity is created and stored on a blockchain, provides greater transparency in the data thus increasing its value. Originally targeted specially at Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) around the world who are new to ESG reporting and lack the budget or bandwidth to engage with traditional and often expensive consultants, diginexESG has increased its feature set to include functionality that also targets larger companies with more complex organizational structures. diginexESG has also been adopted by global commercial banks like HSBC to help engage with their diverse customer base at scale.
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diginexLUMEN: allows companies to execute comprehensive supply chain risk assessments about working conditions within the supply chain. Supplier information is validated against worker feedback and automated risk calculations enables companies to prioritize issues for mitigation and prevention of adverse impacts and improvement efforts.
diginexLUMEN focuses on broad data collection through complex inter-jurisdictional supply chains with a specific focus on social governance issues such as forced labor due diligence, gender risk and child labor risk. Through the collection of data from suppliers and validation by workers, diginexLUMEN relies on proprietary algorithms to generate risk scores to help companies identify which parts of their supply chain require greater scrutiny. The platform then auto-generates corrective action plans which allow the brands and suppliers to work together to remedy potentially problematic areas and reduce the risk score.
diginexAPPRISE: is a multilingual application that collects standardized, actionable data related to working conditions directly from workers in global supply chains. Through tailored question sets, companies can deploy surveys directly to workers in their supply chain on a variety of topics such as responsible recruitment, gender equality and pulse check living and working conditions. The worker voice tool was initially developed by the United Nations University Institute in Macau (UNU-IIST) in partnership with The Mekong Club – an organization working with the private sector to bring about sustainable practices against modern slavery, and was acquired by DSL on December 14, 2021.
diginexAPPRISE is available both as a standalone tool and also fully integrated into diginexLUMEN.
diginexCLIMATE: is a proprietary carbon footprint calculator based on the GHG protocols that is currently available as an integrated part of the diginexESG platform. This allows companies to seamlessly calculate their Scope 1, 2 and 3 carbon footprint as part of their overall ESG reporting journey. Scope 1 are those direct emissions that are owned or controlled by a company, whereas scopes 2 and 3 indirect emissions are the result of the activities of the company but occur from sources not owned or controlled by it.
DSL also offers the following complementary services:
diginexADVISORY: is a service offered by DSL as a complement to the suite of DSL software license sales. diginexADVISORY provides clients strategy and advisory support at every stage of the sustainability journey, including assurance solutions for credible reporting. We also offer custom framework creation for clients who need more complex reporting templates or who want to set a benchmark for others in their industry. As part of diginexADVISORY we also develop and run one-off or programmatic training sessions covering a range of topics from a general introduction to ESG to complex carbon accounting and emissions.
diginexPARTNERS: is a service whereby DSL develops white label versions of both diginexESG and diginexLUMEN for companies who then want to run either diginexESG or diginexLUMEN as an extension of their own service offering. This service often requires custom technology work up front for our clients that generates initial revenue as well as ongoing service and maintenance licenses which generate ongoing recurring revenue.
In addition, DSL develops custom software platforms as part of a project consortiums for organizations like the United States Department of State, United States Department of Labor, and the United Nations.
diginexMANAGEDSERVICES: is service to be offered by DSL to provide oversight and support to clients in operationalizing the roll out of our software products within their organizational structure or supplier base. This service can include training and education, onboarding, data collection and analysis, as well as general on-going support. We will be offering this kind of vertical integration as a service from 2024 onwards and expect it to become an important part of our overall product and service offering.
As of June, 2024, DSL has a current headcount of 30, among which 21 are employees in Hong Kong and United Kingdom and 9 are contractors based in France, Germany, Spain, USA, Canada, Dubai, Mexico and Australia.
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Foreign Private Issuer Status
We are a foreign private issuer within the meaning of the rules under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (which we refer to as the Exchange Act). The Company is a foreign private issuer as less than 50% of the outstanding voting shares will be held by US residents. As such, we are exempt from certain provisions applicable to United States domestic public companies. For example:
● | we are not required to provide as many Exchange Act reports, or as frequently, as a domestic public company; | |
● | for interim reporting, we are permitted to comply solely with our home country requirements, which are less rigorous than the rules that apply to domestic public companies; | |
● | we are not required to provide the same level of disclosure on certain issues, such as executive compensation; | |
● | we are exempt from provisions of Regulation FD aimed at preventing issuers from making selective disclosures of material information; | |
● | we are not required to comply with the sections of the Exchange Act regulating the solicitation of proxies, consents or authorizations in respect of a security registered under the Exchange Act; and | |
● | we are not required to comply with Section 16 of the Exchange Act requiring insiders to file public reports of their share ownership and trading activities and establishing insider liability for profits realized from any “short-swing” trading transaction. |
Under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5615(a)(3)(A), a foreign private issuer may, in general, follow its home country corporate governance practices in lieu of some of the Nasdaq corporate governance requirements, set forth in the Nasdaq Marketplace Rule 5600 Series (with certain exceptions not relevant here). Diginex Limited has elected to be exempt from the requirement in Nasdaq Marketplace Rule 5635(d) which sets forth the circumstances under which shareholder approval is required prior to an issuance of securities, other than in a public offering, equal to 20% or more of the voting power outstanding at a price less than the lower of: (i) the Nasdaq Official Closing Price (as reflected on Nasdaq.com) immediately preceding the signing of the binding agreement; or (ii) the average Nasdaq Official Closing Price of the common stock (as reflected on Nasdaq.com) for the five trading days immediately preceding the signing of the binding agreement.
Emerging Growth Company Status
We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act (or JOBS Act), and we are eligible to take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting and financial disclosure requirements that are applicable to other public companies, that are not emerging growth companies, including, but not limited to, (1) presenting only two years of audited financial statements and only two years of related management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations in this prospectus, (2) not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”), (3) reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements, and (4) exemptions from the requirements of holding a non-binding advisory vote on executive compensation and shareholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. We intend to take advantage of these exemptions, and investors might find investing in our Ordinary Shares less attractive.
In addition, Section 107 of the JOBS Act also provides that an emerging growth company can take advantage of the extended transition period provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (which we refer to as the Securities Act), for complying with new or revised accounting standards. As a result, an emerging growth company can delay the adoption of certain accounting standards until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies, and we intend to take advantage of this extended transaction period.
We could remain an emerging growth company for up to five years, or until the earliest of (1) the last day of the first fiscal year in which our annual gross revenues exceed $1.235 billion, (2) the date that we become a “large accelerated filer” as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act, which would occur if the market value of our Ordinary Shares that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter and we have been publicly reporting for at least 12 months, or (3) the date on which we have issued more than $1 billion in non-convertible debt during the preceding three-year period.
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Our Corporate Structure
Diginex Limited is a Cayman Islands exempted company, incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands on January 26, 2024. Upon incorporation, one (1) ordinary share of Diginex Limited was issued to Rhino Ventures Limited. On July 15, 2024, Diginex Limited and Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited (“DSL”) completed a restructuring pursuant to a share exchange agreement (the “Share Exchange Agreement”), whereby the then existing shareholders of DSL (the “Original Shareholders”) transferred all of their shares in DSL to Diginex Limited, in consideration for Diginex Limited’s issuance of substantially the same securities to such shareholders in exchange for the securities of DSL held by Original Shareholders (the “Exchange”). Prior to the Exchange there were 16,756 ordinary shares of DSL issued and outstanding, 3,151 preferred shares of DSL issued and outstanding and 10,172 warrants of DSL issued and outstanding. In the Exchange, each of the securities of DSL were exchanged for substantially the same securities of Diginex Limited at an exchange ratio of one (1) ordinary share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited , one (1) preferred share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Preferred Shares of Diginex Limited and one (1) warrant of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) warrants of Diginex Limited.
Prior to the Exchange on May 28, 2023, DSL agreed to an $8,000,000 share subscription agreement with Rhino Ventures Limited and on September 28, 2023 executed a subscription agreement (the “RVL Subscription Agreement”). Pursuant to the RVL Subscription Agreement, DSL issued Rhino Ventures Limited 5,086 ordinary shares and 10,172 warrants in exchange for $8.0 million. The warrants will be exercisable for ordinary shares of DSL for a period of three years from the date they are issued and shall be exercisable at a per warrant price of US$2,512. Post the completion of the Restructuring and Share Subdivision (as defined below), the number of warrants of Diginex Limited issued to Rhino Ventures Limited was adjusted to 4,170,520 from 10,172 with an adjusted price per warrant of US$6.13. The warrants, if fully exercised, will result in the issuance of such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 51% of the total issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of the warrants being exercised. This will be prorated for partial exercise of warrants. Rhino Ventures Limited paid the subscription price by the payment of $6.1 million in cash and the forgiveness of $1.9 million of debt due to Rhino Ventures Limited. The RVL Subscription Agreement also activated an anti-dilution clause in the Articles of Association of DSL which resulted in HBM IV, Inc. being issued 151 preferred shares of DSL for zero consideration. This increased HBM IV, Inc.’s holding to 3,151 preferred shares of DSL.
In connection with the Exchange, Diginex Limited and security holders of DSL consummated the following transactions (the “Ancillary Transactions”): (i) Diginex Limited issued $4.35 million new convertible loan notes to certain Original Shareholders in consideration for the cancellation of the then existing convertible loan notes issued by DSL and held by such Original Shareholders; (ii) Diginex Limited granted certain share options under the new share option plan that was adopted by Diginex Limited to the holders of the unexercised share options granted by DSL (the “Original Share Options”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Share Options held by such holders. At time of the Exchange there were 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting and (iii) Diginex Limited granted certain warrants to purchase Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited to the holders of the then existing warrants to purchase ordinary shares of DSL (the “Original Warrants”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Warrants held by such holders. The convertible loan notes will automatically convert into Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited upon the effectiveness of this registration statement and whilst there is no automatic vesting of any unvested share options upon completion of this Offering the board of directors, at their discretion, do have the ability to accelerate vesting at any point. At the time of this registration statement there was no confirmation if the board of directors will accelerate vesting. The fair value of all unvested ESOP as of the date of this registration statement is $1.8 million of which $0.2 million was recognized in the combined financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2024.
Accordingly, upon consummation of the Exchange and the Ancillary Transactions (collectively the “Restructuring”), DSL became a wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited, and the prior shareholders of DSL became shareholders of Diginex Limited. The remaining DSL security holders became security holders of Diginex Limited, in that they held Diginex Limited convertible loan notes, share options and warrants. Following, the closing of the Restructuring there is 6,869,961 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited issued and outstanding, 1,291,910 preferred shares of Diginex Limited issued and outstanding, 4,179,520 warrants issued and outstanding, $4.35 million new convertible loan notes issued and outstanding and 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting.
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Following the Restructuring, on July 26, 2024, the Company completed a share subdivision (the “Share Subdivision”) such that, the authorized share capital of the Company was revised to be US$50,000 divided into 960,000,000 Ordinary Shares of US$0.00005 par value each and 40,000,000 preferred shares (the “Preferred Shares”), par value US$0.00005 per share. Prior to the Share Subdivision there were 6,869,961 ordinary shares and 1,291,910 preferred shares issued and outstanding, and after the Share Subdivision there are 13,739,922 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding.
During the Restructuring, a $1 million loan due from DSL to a related company, Diginex Holdings Limited, a company controlled by Rhino Ventures Limited, was converted into a $1 million convertible loan note of which Rhino Ventures Limited holds $517,535 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note and Working Capital Innovation Fund II L.P. holds $482,465 of the principal amount of the convertible loan note. The loan between DSL and Diginex Holdings Limited charged interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. The terms of the new convertible loan notes also charge interest at 8% per annum and had a maturity date of December 31, 2024. This $1 million convertible loan note forms part of the $4.35 million loan notes issued by Diginex Limited post the Restructuring.
On August 6, 2024 certain Employee Share Option Plan (“ESOP”) holders exercised their options and converted their options into Ordinary Shares. 501,840 employee share options were converted into 1,003,680 Ordinary Shares whilst 109,470 employee share options lapsed without being exercised. In addition, 368,826 employee share options were issued on July 31, 2024 and on August 21, 2024 employee share options were issued to 0.5% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of vesting. The remaining employee share options as at the time of this registration statement are 41,945 vested but not exercised, 368,826 unvested employee share options and unvested employee share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.7% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at time of vesting. Prior to the exercise of 501,840 options on August 6, 2024 there were 13,739,922 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding, and after such exercise of 501,840 options there are 14,743,602 Ordinary Shares and 2,583,820 Preferred Shares issued and outstanding.
Since 17th November 2023, Rhino Ventures Limited (“RVL”) issued convertible notes (the “Rhino Notes”) to various investors (each a “Rhino Investor” and collectively the “Rhino Investors”). In exchange for a loan from a Rhino Investor, RVL issued the Rhino Investor a Rhino Note. The Rhino Notes are convertible into DSL ordinary shares, or successor securities, that were owned by RVL at a conversion price of between USD2.78 to USD2.99. The Rhino Notes were convertible into RVL’s shares of DSL ordinary shares, or successor securities, (1) at the option of the Rhino Investor or (2) automatically upon F-1 either being effective or having received 2 or below comments. On August 7, 2024, six of the Rhino Investors elected to convert their Rhino Notes and RVL transferred an aggregate amount of 2,992,180 Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited, the successor securities to the DSL ordinary shares, to the six Rhino Investors as follows: (i) Samantha Dolan received 327,189 Ordinary Shares, (ii) Christopher Lord received 418,200 Ordinary Shares, (iii) Dorota Menard received 400,980 Ordinary Shares, (iv) Gildo Plate received 294,380 Ordinary Shares and (v) Natalia Pelham received 1,049,600 Ordinary Shares and (vi) Benjamin Salter received 501,840 Ordinary Shares. Currently, there are eight Rhino Investors that hold Rhino Notes which are collectively convertible into an aggregate amount of 1,775,300 Ordinary Shares. RVL may issue additional Rhino Notes prior to the completion of this Offering. Other than Natalia Pelham, who is our Chairman’s wife, the Rhino Investors are not related to Mr. Pelham nor are they affiliates to the Company. As of the date of this registration statement RVL holds 9,333,242 Ordinary Shares, which does not include the reduction for RVL’s Ordinary Shares that will be issued upon the conversion of the outstanding Rhino Notes.
DSL, Diginex Limited’s wholly owned subsidiary, currently owes RVL $2.4 million under a loan agreement, dated September 29, 2024 (“RVL Loan”), and RVL will continue to fund Diginex Limited, via DSL through the completion of this Offering. Diginex Limited and RVL have agreed that RVL shall convert up to $3 million of the RVL Loan into Ordinary Shares upon the pricing of this Offering at the IPO offering price. Based on the assumed offering price of $5.00 per share, upon the pricing of the Offering, RVL’s loan, assuming loan balance of $3 million, the RVL Loan will convert into 600,000 Ordinary Shares. In exchange for RVL’s conversion of the RVL Loan into Ordinary Shares, Diginex Limited has agreed to provide RVL registration rights with respect to the Ordinary Shares that RVL receives upon conversion of the RVL Loan. The conversion of the RVL Loan is in addition to the conversion of the RVL convertible loan note with a principal balance of $517,535. The RVL Loan is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.9.
Following the consummation Restructuring, DSL became a wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited, and the former shareholders and securityholders of DSL became shareholders and securityholders of Diginex Limited. Following the Restructuring, Diginex Limited has subsidiaries located in Hong Kong, United Kingdom and United States of America. Diginex Limited is the sole owner of DSL, and through DSL the sole owner of (i) Diginex Services Limited, a corporation formed in the United Kingdom and (ii) Diginex USA LLC, a limited liability company formed in the State of Delaware.
The following chart summarizes our corporate legal structure and identifies our subsidiaries as of the date of this prospectus. For more details on our corporate history please refer to “Corporate History” appearing on page 32 of this prospectus.
Corporate Information
Our global headquarters and principal executive office is located at Smart-Space Fintech 2, Room 3, Unit 401-404 Core C, Cyberport, Telegraph Bay, Hong Kong. We also have an office at Avenue des Papalins a Monaco portant le numero D2/D3, Monaco which was used by the Chairman and Chief Operating Officer. Our registered office in the Cayman Islands is located at the offices of Ogier Global (Cayman) Limited, 89 Nexus Way, Camana Bay, Grand Cayman, KY1-9009, Cayman Islands.
Our website is http://www.diginex.com. Information contained on, or that can be accessed through, our websites is not part of, and shall not be incorporated by reference into, this prospectus. Our agent for service of process in the United States is Puglisi & Associates, 850 Library Avenue, Suite 2-4, Newark, Delaware 19711.
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Summary Risk Factors
Risk Related to Diginex Limited’s Business
● | Diginex Limited has a limited operating history and has incurred operating losses since its inception as it has been investing in the build out of its business lines, but they are not assured to be profitable. |
● | Cyberattacks and security breaches of our platform, or those impacting our customers or third parties, could adversely impact our brand and reputation and our business, operating results, and financial condition. |
● | One or more of Diginex Limited’s business lines may not produce sufficient cash flows to fund the capital requirements and expenditures necessary to run the business. |
● | ESG reporting technology may not be widely adopted on blockchain due to association with digital assets. |
● | Diginex Limited’s business lines may require technology certifications and qualifications that Diginex Limited does not currently have and that may be costly and time-consuming to obtain and, even if obtained, may subsequently be revoked. |
● | Our suit of products, services and initiatives, could fail to attract users and partners or generate revenue. |
● | Diginex Limited faces substantial litigation risks. |
● | Diginex Limited may not successfully develop technology to service its business lines. |
● | Cybersecurity incidents and other systems and technology problems may materially and adversely affect Diginex Limited. |
● | Diginex Limited may not be able to keep pace with rapidly changing technology and client requirements. |
● | Diginex Limited may face the risk that one or more competitors have or will obtain patents covering technology critical to the operation of one or more of its business lines and that it may infringe on the intellectual property rights of others. |
● | Managing different business lines could present conflicts of interest. |
● | Economic, political and market conditions in Hong Kong and worldwide, can adversely affect Diginex Limited’s business, results of operations and financial condition. |
● | Diginex Limited’s business lines and its acceptance of currencies other than the U.S. Dollar will subject it to currency risk. |
● | Risks related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the armed conflict between Israel and Hamas. |
● | Diginex Limited’s business may be adversely affected by natural disasters, pandemics, and other catastrophic events, and by man-made problems such as terrorism, that could disrupt the business operations, and the business continuity and disaster recovery plans may not adequately protect it from a serious disaster. |
● | DSL was previously owned by Eqonex Limited, until it was sold to Rhino Ventures Limited in May 2020. Eqonex Limited was focused on crypto currencies and went into liquidation in May 2022. There could be some legacy brand confusion which could impact the business of Diginex Limited and the value of Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares. |
● | The future sales of Ordinary Shares by existing shareholders, including the sales pursuant to the Resale Prospectus, may adversely affect the market price of our Ordinary Shares. |
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Risks Related to Diginex Limited’s incorporation in the Cayman Islands
● | Because Diginex Limited is incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands, you may face difficulties in protecting your interests, and your ability to protect your rights through the U.S. Federal courts may be limited. |
● | It may be difficult to enforce a U.S. judgment against Diginex Limited or its directors and officers outside the United States, or to assert U.S. securities law claims outside of the United States. |
● | As a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands, Diginex Limited is permitted to adopt certain home country practices in relation to corporate governance matters that differ significantly from Nasdaq corporate governance listing standards; these practices may afford less protection to shareholders than they would enjoy if Diginex Limited complied fully with Nasdaq corporate governance listing standards. |
● | Provisions in the Diginex Limited’s governance documents may inhibit a takeover of Diginex Limited, which could limit the price investors might be willing to pay in the future for Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares and could entrench management. |
● | As a foreign private issuer, Diginex Limited will be exempt from a number of U.S. securities laws and rules promulgated thereunder and will be permitted to publicly disclose less information than U.S. public companies must. This may limit the information available to holders of the Diginex Limited’s Ordinary Shares. |
● | You may be unable to present proposals before annual general meetings or extraordinary general meetings not called by shareholders. |
● | Because Diginex Limited is a foreign private issuer and is exempt from certain Nasdaq corporate governance standards applicable to U.S. issuers, you will have less protection than you would have if it were a domestic issuer. |
● | We currently do not expect to pay dividends in the foreseeable future after this Offering and you must rely on price appreciation of our Ordinary Shares for return on your investment. |
Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong
Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited is incorporated under the laws of Hong Kong. Our principal executive offices and a portion of our global operations are located in Hong Kong. We do not operate in the PRC. We are not a mainland Chinese firm and neither us nor any of our subsidiaries is required to obtain permission from the government of the PRC to operate and issue our Ordinary Shares to foreign investors. DSL and our subsidiaries are not covered by permissions requirements from the CSRC, CAC, and no other PRC entity is required to approve of the company’s operations. We do not believe that we are required to obtain any approvals to offer securities to foreign investors. We have evaluated the laws and regulations of the PRC in coming to this conclusion. This conclusion is based on DSL being a Hong Kong company, with no operations in the PRC, and no VIE in our corporate structure. Since our only connection to the PRC is a physical location in Hong Kong, we have not relied on an opinion of counsel to reach this conclusion, relying instead on our internal analysis of the applicable PRC laws and regulations. If we inadvertently conclude that such approvals are not required, or applicable laws, regulations, or interpretations change and we are required to obtain approval in the future, obtaining such approvals could significantly limit or completely hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors and cause the value of our securities, including the Ordinary Shares, to significantly decline or be worthless. If approval by PRC authorities were required, it could result in a material change in our operations, including our ability to continue our current business, and accept foreign investments, and such adverse actions would likely cause the value of our securities to significantly decline or become worthless, make us subject to penalties and sanctions imposed by PRC regulatory agencies, and cause us to be delisted or prohibited from trading.
DSL primarily holds cash in bank accounts located in Hong Kong, we have no bank accounts or cash in PRC. There are no limitations on our ability to transfer cash from Hong Kong to our subsidiaries or investors.
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We face risks and uncertainties relating to doing business in Hong Kong including, but not limited to, the following:
● | The PRC government intervention into business activities by U.S.-listed, Chinese companies may indicate an expansion of the PRC’s authority that could negatively impact our existing and future operations in Hong Kong and PRC. For additional detail on this risk, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong – The PRC government intervention into business activities by U.S.-listed Chinese companies may indicate an expansion of the PRC’s authority that could negatively impact our existing and future operations in Hong Kong and PRC” starting on page 16 of this prospectus. | |
● | Our business, financial condition and results of operations, and/or the value of our Ordinary Shares or our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors may be materially and adversely affected if certain laws and regulations of the PRC become applicable to our company. | |
● | The laws and regulations in the PRC and Hong Kong are evolving, and their enactment timetable, interpretation and implementation involve significant uncertainties. To the extent any PRC laws and regulations (or the equivalent Hong Kong version) become applicable to us, we may be subject to the risks and uncertainties associated with the evolving laws and regulations in the PRC, their interpretation and implementation, and the legal and regulatory system in the PRC more generally, including with respect to the enforcement of laws and the possibility of changes of rules and regulations in Hong Kong. For additional detail on this risk, see “Risk Factors –Interpretation of PRC laws and the implementation of National Security Law in Hong Kong involve uncertainty.” starting on page 19 of this prospectus. | |
● | We expect that to the extent certain laws and regulations of the PRC become applicable to us, we may relocate our principal executive offices, employees, and operations out of Hong Kong. We may also be forced to dissolve our Hong Kong subsidiary and incorporate one or more new entities outside of Hong Kong. While we believe we may be able to relocate and reorganize, as an early-stage enterprise with limited revenue and that is not currently profitable, the costs and expenses related to relocating our offices, employees, and operations, as well as the legal and professional fees associated with reorganizing certain legal entities, would likely have a material impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. There can be no guarantee that Diginex Limited’s business lines, individually or together with our other business lines will be able to produce sufficient cash flows to fund the capital requirements and expenditures necessary to run the business and relocate.
For additional detail on these risks, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong – Our business, financial condition and results of operations, and/or the value of our Ordinary Shares or our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors may be materially and adversely affected if certain laws and regulations of the PRC become applicable to a company. In that case, we may be subject to the risks and uncertainties associated with the evolving laws and regulations in the PRC, their interpretation and implementation, and the legal and regulatory system in the PRC more generally, including with respect to the enforcement of laws and the possibility of changes of rules and regulations, and be forced to relocate our operations outside of Hong Kong” starting on page 16 of this prospectus. | |
● | Legislative actions by the PRC and the Hong Kong legislature have introduced risks and uncertainties concerning the Hong Kong legal system and the enforcement of the PRC’s laws in Hong Kong2. For additional detail on this risk, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong – The Hong Kong legal system embodies uncertainties which could limit the availability of legal protections” and “–There are political risks associated with conducting business in Hong Kong” starting on page 18 of this prospectus. | |
● | Rules and regulations in PRC, including some which may become applicable to Hong Kong, can change quickly with little advance notice, which could limit the legal protections available to the Company and its investors. For additional detail on this risk, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong – The Hong Kong legal system embodies uncertainties which could limit the availability of legal protections” starting on page 18 of this prospectus. |
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● | The PRC government may intervene or influence our operations in Hong Kong at any time or may exert more control over offerings conducted overseas and/or foreign investment in us. For additional detail on this risk, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong – The Hong Kong government may face further restrictive measures from PRC government in the future” starting on page 19 of this prospectus. | |
● | The interpretation of PRC laws and the implementation of the National Security Law in Hong Kong involve uncertainty. For additional detail on this risk, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong – Interpretation of PRC laws and the implementation of National Security Law in Hong Kong involve uncertainty” starting on page 19 of this prospectus. The Hong Kong authorities have announced their plan to enact further national security related legislation in 2024. The contents of these new laws are still unknown but they may have a further impact on foreign organizations and their operations in Hong Kong. | |
● | Our Ordinary Shares may be delisted or prohibited from being traded under the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act (“HFCAA”) if the PCAOB were unable to fully inspect our auditor. The delisting or the cessation of trading of our Ordinary Shares, or the threat of them being delisted or prohibited from being traded “over-the-counter,” may materially and adversely affect the value and/or liquidity of your investment. Additionally, if the PCAOB were unable to conduct full inspections of our auditor, it would deprive our investors of the benefits of such inspections. Our independent registered public accounting firm for the financial statements included in this prospectus, UHY LLP, is also not subject to the determinations announced by the PCAOB on December 16, 2021. UHY LLP are headquartered in Farmington Hills, Michigan. UHY LLP are not headquartered in the PRC or Hong Kong. The PCAOB currently has access to inspect the working papers of UHY LLP. As a result, we do not believe the HFCAA and related regulations will affect our company. If, however, our independent registered public accounting firm, or its affiliates, were denied, even temporarily, the ability to practice before the SEC and PCAOB, and it were determined that our financial statements or audit reports are not in compliance with the requirements of the U.S. Exchange Act, we could be at risk of delisting or become subject to other penalties that would adversely affect our ability to remain listed on the Nasdaq. For additional detail on this risk, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong – Our Ordinary Shares may be delisted or prohibited from being traded under the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act if the PCAOB were unable to fully inspect our auditor. The delisting or the cessation of trading of our Ordinary Shares, or the threat of them being delisted or prohibited from being traded, may materially and adversely affect the value and/or liquidity of your investment. Additionally, if the PCAOB were unable to conduct full inspections of our auditor, it would deprive our investors with the benefits of such inspections” starting on page 19 of this prospectus. |
Risks Related to Our Ordinary Shares and This Offering
We face risks and uncertainties related to our Ordinary Shares and this Offering, including, but not limited to:
● | Our controlling shareholders have a substantial influence over our company and his interests may not be aligned with the interests of our other shareholders; | |
● | Because we are a foreign private issuer and are exempt from certain Nasdaq corporate governance standards applicable to U.S. issuers, you will have less protection than you would have if we were a domestic issuer; | |
● | Although as a foreign private issuer we are exempt from certain corporate governance standards applicable to U.S. issuers, if we cannot satisfy, or continue to satisfy, the initial listing requirements and other rules of Na, our securities may be delisted, which could negatively impact the price of our securities and your ability to sell them; | |
● | If we cease to qualify as a foreign private issuer, we would be required to comply fully with the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act applicable to U.S. domestic issuers, and we would incur significant additional legal, accounting and other expenses that we would not incur as a foreign private issuer; | |
● | We are an “emerging growth company” within the meaning of the Securities Act, and if we take advantage of certain exemptions from disclosure requirements available to emerging growth companies, this could make it more difficult to compare our performance with other public companies; | |
● | We will incur increased costs as a result of being a public company, particularly after we cease to qualify as an “emerging growth company”; | |
● | You may be unable to present proposals before annual general meetings or extraordinary general meetings not called by shareholders; | |
● | Our Ordinary Shares may be thinly traded and you may be unable to sell at or near ask prices or at all if you need to sell your shares to raise money or otherwise desire to liquidate your shares; | |
● | You will experience immediate and substantial dilution in the net tangible book value of Ordinary Shares purchased; | |
● | We do not intend to pay dividends for the foreseeable future; | |
● | Volatility in our Ordinary Shares price may subject us to securities litigation.; and | |
● | We have broad discretion in the use of the net proceeds from this Offering and may not use them effectively. |
If any or all of the foregoing were to occur, this could result in a material change in our Company’s operations and/or the value of our Ordinary Shares and/or significantly limit or completely hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors and cause the value of such securities to significantly decline or be worthless.
For additional detail on these and other risks, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to Doing Business in Hong Kong” starting on page 16 of this prospectus.
Additional Information
Our principal executive offices are located at Smart-Space Fintech 2, Room 3, Unit 401-404, Core C, Cyberport, Telegraph Bay, Hong Kong. Our telephone number is +852 3618 5881. Diginex Limited’s website is located at https://www.diginex.com. The information contained on, or that may be accessed through, our website is not part of, and is not incorporated into, this prospectus or the registration statement of which it forms a part.
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FREQUENTLY USED TERMS
Except as otherwise indicated by the context and for purposes of this prospectus only, references in this prospectus to:
● | “Advisory” is assisting companies define and implement their ESG strategies; | |
● | “Chardan” means Chardan Capital Markets LLC’ | |
● | “Companies Act” means the Companies Act (As Revised) of the Cayman Islands; | |
● | “Customization” is developing bespoke solutions for clients onto of ESG Entity Reporting or Lumen | |
● | “Diginex Limited” or the “Company” means Diginex Limited, an exempted company with limited liability incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands; | |
● | “Diginex Services” means Diginex Services Limited, a direct subsidiary of DSL, incorporated in the United Kingdom; | |
● | “Diginex USA” means Diginex USA LLC, a direct subsidiary of DSL, incorporated in Delaware, USA | |
● | “diginexESG” is end to end reporting from topic discovery, data collection to collaborative report publishing; | |
● | “diginexESG Entity Reporting” is advanced reporting across multiple entities with data comparison and aggregation; | |
● | “diginexLUMEN” is democratizing supply chain risk assessment and monitoring; | |
● | “diginexApprise” gives workers a voice in supply chain due diligence, proving companies with reliable insights for their risk assessment; | |
● | “diginexPartners” is the creation of customized development and /or white label solutions, also referred to as “Customization”; | |
● | “Dominari” means Dominari Securities LLC | |
● | “DSL” means Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited, a Hong Kong corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries; | |
● | “ESG” means Environmental, Social, and Governance. ESG is a framework that helps stakeholders understand how an organization is managing risks and opportunities related to environmental, social and governance criteria; | |
● | “Exchange” means the share exchange contemplated by the Share Exchange Agreement; | |
● | “GHG protocol” is Greenhouse Gas Protocol which provides standards, guidance, tools and training to measure and manage climate warming emissions; | |
● | “Group” means Diginex Limited and its subsidiaries; | |
● | “Licensed software sales” is the sale of diginexESG and/or diginexLUMEN on 12 month recurring subscription agreements; | |
● | “Managed Services” is the collection of data from suppliers on behalf of clients to aid the full visibility of results from supply chain due diligence | |
● | “Memorandum and Articles” is to the Company’s memorandum and articles of association; | |
● | “Nasdaq” means the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC; | |
● | “Offering” means Diginex Limited’s initial public offering of 2,250,000 Ordinary Shares as described in this registration statement on Form F-1; | |
● | “Ordinary Shares” means the ordinary shares of Diginex Limited, with par value of $0.00005 per share; | |
● | “PRC” mean The Peoples Republic of China, including Hong Kong and Macau. Hong Kong is a special administrative region of PRC and operates under a different legal system to the rest of the PRC. However, all legal and operational risks associated with having operations in the PRC may also apply to operations in Hong Kong; | |
● | “Preferred Shares” means the preferred shares of Diginex Limited, with par value of US$0.00005 per share; | |
● | “private placement warrants” or “Warrants” means the warrants issued to certain persons pursuant to certain securities purchase agreements, each exercisable for one Ordinary Share; | |
● | “private placement warrant shares” means the Ordinary Shares to be issued upon exercise of the private placement warrants; | |
● | “Restructuring” means the consummation of the transaction contemplated by the Exchange and the Ancillary Agreements resulting in DSL becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited and involving the (i) transfer of shares of DSL from its then shareholders to the Company in consideration for the issuance of new shares of the Company to such shareholders pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Share Exchange Agreement, (ii) issuance of new convertible loan notes to certain DSL shareholders in consideration for the cancellation of the then existing convertible loan notes issued by DSL, (iii) granting certain share options under the new share option plan that was adopted by Diginex Limited to the holders of the unexercised share options granted by DSL, in consideration for the cancellation of the DSL options held by such holders and (iv) granting certain warrants to purchase Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited to the holders of the then existing warrants to purchase ordinary shares of DSL, in consideration for the cancellation of the DSL warrants. | |
● | “RVL Warrants” means warrants issued to Rhino Ventures Limited on completion of a successful IPO | |
● | “Scope 1, 2 and 3 carbon footprint” is a way of categorizing the different kinds of carbon emissions a company creates from its own operations, and its wider value chain | |
● | “Selling Shareholders” means existing shareholders of the Company that are selling their Ordinary Shares pursuant to the Resale Prospectus | |
● | “Share Exchange Agreement” means the written agreement dated as of July 15, 2024 entered into by and among DSL, the then shareholders of DSL and Diginex Limited, pursuant to which the then existing shareholders of DSL transferred all of their shares in DSL to Diginex Limited, in exchange for Diginex Limited’s issuance of its new shares to such shareholders. Upon the consummation of the Share Exchange Agreement, DSL became a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Diginex Limited, and the existing shareholders of DSL became shareholders of Diginex Limited | |
● | “Share Subdivision” means the authorized share capital of the Company became US$50,000 divided into 960,000,000 Ordinary Shares of US$0.00005 par value each and 40,000 Preferred Shares of US$0.00005 par value each. | |
● | “we,” “us” and “our” refers to Diginex Limited and its subsidiaries. |
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THE OFFERING1
Ordinary Shares offered by the Selling Shareholders: | 2,992,180 Ordinary Shares | |
Offer Price: | $4.00 to $6.002 | |
Number of Ordinary Shares outstanding before this Offering: | 20,942,950 Ordinary Shares | |
Ordinary Shares to be outstanding immediately after this Offering: | 23,192,950 Ordinary Shares. | |
Use of proceeds: | We will not receive any of the proceeds from the sale of the Ordinary Shares by the Selling Shareholders named in this Resale Prospectus. |
(1) | Estimate only. To be finalized at pricing. |
(2) | Any shares sold by the Selling Shareholders covered by this prospectus will only occur after the trading of our Ordinary Shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market, and begins at prevailing market prices or in privately negotiated prices. |
SELLING SHAREHOLDERS
The following table sets forth the name of the Selling Shareholders, the number of Ordinary Shares owned by each Selling Shareholders immediately prior to the date of this Resale Prospectus and the number of shares to be offered by the Selling Shareholders pursuant to this Resale Prospectus. The table also provides information regarding the beneficial ownership of our Ordinary Shares by the Selling Shareholders as adjusted to reflect the assumed sale of all of the shares offered under this Resale Prospectus.
Applicable percentage of ownership is based on 23,192,950 Ordinary Shares outstanding immediately after the offering.
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We have determined beneficial ownership in accordance with the rules of the SEC. These rules generally attribute beneficial ownership of securities to persons who possess sole or shared voting power or investment power with respect to those securities. The person is also deemed to be a beneficial owner of any security of which that person has a right to acquire beneficial ownership within 60 days. Unless otherwise indicated, the person identified in this table has sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares shown as beneficially owned by him, her or it, subject to applicable community property laws.
Name of Selling Shareholder | Ordinary Shares Beneficially Owned Prior to Offering(1) | Percentage Ordinary Shares Ownership Before the Offering (%) | Maximum Number of Ordinary Shares to be Sold Pursuant to this Prospectus | Number of Ordinary Shares Owned after Offering(2) | Percentage Ordinary Shares Ownership After Offering (%) | |||||||||||||||
Natalia Pelham3 | 1,049,600 | 5.0 | % | 1.049,600 | 1,049,600 | 4.5 | % | |||||||||||||
Dorota Menard4 | 400,980 | 1.9 | % | 400,980 | 400,980 | 1.7 | % | |||||||||||||
Benjamin Salter5 | 501,840 | 2.4 | % | 501,840 | 501,840 | 2.2 | % | |||||||||||||
Christopher Lord6 | 418,200 | 2.0 | % | 418,200 | 418,200 | 1.8 | % | |||||||||||||
Samantha Dolan7 | 327,180 | 1.6 | % | 327,180 | 327,180 | 1.4 | % | |||||||||||||
Gildo Plate8 | 294,380 | 1.4 | % | 294,380 | 294,380 | 1.3 | % | |||||||||||||
Total | 2,992,180 | 14.3 | % | 2,992,180 | 2,992,180 | 12.9 | % |
(1) | Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC. In computing the number of shares beneficially owned by a person and the percentage ownership of that person, securities that are currently convertible or exercisable into Ordinary Shares, or convertible or exercisable into our Ordinary Shares within 60 days of the date hereof are deemed outstanding. Such shares, however, are not deemed outstanding for the purposes of computing the percentage ownership of any other person. Except as indicated in the footnotes to the following table, each stockholder named in the table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares set forth opposite such stockholder’s name. |
(2) | Assumes the sale of our Ordinary Shares by the Selling Shareholders pursuant to the Resale Prospectus filed herewith. |
(3) | Natalia Pelham with a registered address of 8 Lung Poon Street, Diamond Hill, Hong Kong |
(4) | Dorota Menard with a registered address of 300 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong |
(5) | Benjamin Salter with a registered address of 76 Hillingdon Road, Bexleyheath, Kent, United Kingdom |
(6) | Christopher Lord with a registered address of 13 The Farthings, Washington, Tyne and Wear, United Kingdom |
(7) | Samantha Dolan with a registered address of Fairoak Lane, Oxshoot, Surrey, United Kingdom |
(8) | Gildo Plate with a registered address of 20 Boulevard Princess Charlotte, Monaco |
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Lock-up Agreements
The Selling Shareholders, with respect to their Ordinary Shares sold pursuant to the Resale Prospectus in this offering, have not entered into Lock-up Agreements. See “Risk Factor — The future sales of Ordinary Shares by existing shareholders, including the sales pursuant to the Resale Prospectus, may adversely affect the market price of our Ordinary Shares.”
SELLING SHAREHOLDERS PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION
The Selling Shareholders and any of their pledgees, donees, assignees and successors-in-interest may, from time to time, sell any or all of their Ordinary Shares being offered under this Resale Prospectus on any stock exchange, market or trading facility on which shares of our Ordinary Shares are traded or in private transactions. These sales may be at fixed or negotiated prices. The Selling Shareholders may use any one or more of the following methods when disposing of shares:
● | ordinary brokerage transactions and transactions in which the broker-dealer solicits purchasers; | |
● | block trades in which the broker-dealer will attempt to sell the shares as agent but may position; and resell a portion of the block as principal to facilitate the transaction; | |
● | purchases by a broker-dealer as principal and resales by the broker-dealer for its account; | |
● | an exchange distribution in accordance with the rules of the applicable exchange; | |
● | privately negotiated transactions; | |
● | to cover short sales made after the date that the registration statement of which this Resale Prospectus is a part is declared effective by the SEC; | |
● | broker-dealers may agree with the Selling Shareholders to sell a specified number of such shares at a stipulated price per share; | |
● | a combination of any of these methods of sale; and | |
● | any other method permitted pursuant to applicable law. |
The shares may also be sold under Rule 144 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, if available for the Selling Shareholders, rather than under this Resale Prospectus. The Selling Shareholders has the sole and absolute discretion not to accept any purchase offer or make any sale of shares if they deem the purchase price to be unsatisfactory at any particular time.
The Selling Shareholders may pledge their shares to their brokers under the margin provisions of customer agreements. If the Selling Shareholders defaults on a margin loan, the broker may, from time to time, offer and sell the pledged shares.
Broker-dealers engaged by the Selling Shareholders may arrange for other broker-dealers to participate in sales. Broker-dealers may receive commissions or discounts from the Selling Shareholders (or, if any broker-dealer acts as agent for the purchaser of shares, from the purchaser) in amounts to be negotiated, which commissions as to a particular broker or dealer may be in excess of customary commissions to the extent permitted by applicable law.
If sales of shares offered under this Resale Prospectus are made to broker-dealers as principals, we would be required to file a post-effective amendment to the registration statement of which this Resale Prospectus is a part. In the post-effective amendment, we would be required to disclose the names of any participating broker-dealers and the compensation arrangements relating to such sales.
The Selling Shareholders and any broker-dealers or agents that are involved in selling the shares offered under this Resale Prospectus may be deemed to be “underwriters” within the meaning of the Securities Act in connection with these sales. Commissions received by these broker-dealers or agents and any profit on the resale of the shares purchased by them may be deemed to be underwriting discount under the Securities Act. Any broker-dealers or agents that are deemed to be underwriters may not sell shares offered under this Resale Prospectus unless and until we set forth the names of the underwriters and the material details of their underwriting arrangements in a supplement to this Resale Prospectus or, if required, in a replacement resale prospectus included in a post-effective amendment to the registration statement of which this Resale Prospectus is a part.
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The Selling Shareholders and any other persons participating in the sale or distribution of the shares offered under this Resale Prospectus will be subject to applicable provisions of the Exchange Act, and the rules and regulations under that act, including Regulation M. These provisions may restrict activities of, and limit the timing of purchases and sales of any of the shares by, the Selling Shareholders or any other person. Furthermore, under Regulation M, persons engaged in a distribution of securities are prohibited from simultaneously engaging in market making and other activities with respect to those securities for a specified period of time prior to the commencement of such distributions, subject to specified exceptions or exemptions. All of these limitations may affect the marketability of the shares.
Rule 2710 requires members firms to satisfy the filing requirements of Rule 2710 in connection with the resale, on behalf of Selling Shareholders, of the securities on a principal or agency basis. NASD Notice to Members 88-101 states that in the event the Selling Shareholders intends to sell any of the shares registered for resale in this Resale Prospectus through a member of FINRA participating in a distribution of our securities, such member is responsible for insuring that a timely filing, if required, is first made with the Corporate Finance Department of FINRA and disclosing to FINRA the following:
● | it intends to take possession of the registered securities or to facilitate the transfer of such certificates; | |
● | the complete details of how the Selling Shareholders’ shares are and will be held, including location of the particular accounts; | |
● | whether the member firm or any direct or indirect affiliates thereof have entered into, will facilitate or otherwise participate in any type of payment transaction with the Selling Shareholders, including details regarding any such transactions; and | |
● | in the event any of the securities offered by the Selling Shareholders are sold, transferred, assigned or hypothecated by any Selling Shareholders in a transaction that directly or indirectly involves a member firm of FINRA or any affiliates thereof, that prior to or at the time of said transaction the member firm will timely file all relevant documents with respect to such transaction(s) with the Corporate Finance Department of FINRA for review. |
No FINRA member firm may receive compensation in excess of that allowable under FINRA rules, including Rule 2710, in connection with the resale of the securities by the Selling Shareholders. If any of the ordinary shares offered for sale pursuant to this Resale Prospectus are transferred other than pursuant to a sale under this Resale Prospectus, then subsequent holders could not use this Resale Prospectus until a post-effective amendment or prospectus supplement is filed, naming such holders. We offer no assurance as to whether any of the Selling Shareholders will sell all or any portion of the shares offered under this Resale Prospectus.
We have agreed to pay all fees and expenses we incur incident to the registration of the shares being offered under this Resale Prospectus. However, each Selling Shareholders and purchaser is responsible for paying any discount, and similar selling expenses they incur.
We and the Selling Shareholders have agreed to indemnify one another against certain losses, damages and liabilities arising in connection with this Resale Prospectus, including liabilities under the Securities Act.
LEGAL MATTERS
Loeb & Loeb LLP is our U.S. and Hong Kong legal counsel. The validity of the Ordinary Shares has been passed upon for us by Ogier our Cayman Islands counsel.
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DIGINEX LIMITED
2,992,180 Ordinary Shares
RESALE PROSPECTUS
You should rely only on the information contained in this Resale Prospectus. No dealer, salesperson or other person is authorized to give information that is not contained in this Resale Prospectus. This Resale Prospectus is not an offer to sell nor is it seeking an offer to buy these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted. The information contained in this Resale Prospectus is correct only as of the date of this prospectus, regardless of the time of the delivery of this prospectus or the sale of these securities.
Until, __________ __, 2024, all dealers that effect transactions in these securities, whether or not participating in this offering, may be required to deliver a prospectus. This is in addition to the dealers’ obligation to deliver a prospectus when acting as underwriter with respect to their unsold subscriptions.
INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
Item 6. Indemnification of Directors and Officers.
Cayman Islands law does not limit the extent to which a company’s memorandum and articles of association may provide for indemnification of officers and directors, except to the extent any such provision may be held by the Cayman Islands courts to be contrary to public policy, such as to provide indemnification against the consequences of committing a crime, or against the indemnified person’s own fraud, dishonesty, willful default or willful neglect. Our Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles provide to the extent permitted by Cayman Islands law, we shall indemnify each existing or former secretary, director (including alternate director), and any of our other officers (including an investment adviser or an administrator or liquidator) and their personal representatives against: (a) all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, expenses, losses, damages or liabilities incurred or sustained by the existing or former director (including alternate director), secretary or officer in or about the conduct of our business or affairs or in the execution or discharge of the existing or former director (including alternate director), secretary’s or officer’s duties, powers, authorities or discretions; and (b) without limitation to paragraph (a) above, all costs, expenses, losses or liabilities incurred by the existing or former director (including alternate director), secretary or officer in defending (whether successfully or otherwise) any civil, criminal, administrative or investigative proceedings (whether threatened, pending or completed) concerning us or our affairs in any court or tribunal, whether in the Cayman Islands or elsewhere. No such existing or former director (including alternate director), secretary or officer, however, shall be indemnified in respect of any matter arising out of his own dishonesty, fraud, willful default or willful neglect.
To the extent permitted by the Companies Act, we may make a payment, or agree to make a payment, whether by way of advance, loan or otherwise, for any legal costs incurred by an existing or former director (including alternate director), secretary or any of our officers in respect of any matter identified in above on condition that the director (including alternate director), secretary or officer must repay the amount paid by us to the extent that it is ultimately found not liable to indemnify the director (including alternate director), the secretary or that officer for those legal costs. Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers or persons controlling the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, the registrant has been informed that in the opinion of the SEC such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is therefore unenforceable.
Item 7. Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities.
Set forth below is information regarding securities issued by Diginex Limited during the last three years and securities issued by DSL during the last three years. None of the below described transactions involved any underwriters, underwriting discounts and commissions or commissions, or any public offering.
Unregistered sales by Diginex Limited:
On August 6, 2024, Diginex Limited issued 294,380 Ordinary Shares to Mark Blick following the exercise of employee share options for consideration of $14.72
On August 6, 2024, Diginex Limited issued 294,380 Ordinary Shares to Miles Pelham following the exercise of employee share options for consideration of $14.72
On August 6, 2024, Diginex Limited issued 180,400 Ordinary Shares to Christian Thierfelder following the exercise of employee share options for consideration of $9.02
On August 6, 2024, Diginex Limited issued 180,400 Ordinary Shares to Graham Bridges following the exercise of employee share options for consideration of $9.02
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On August 6, 2024, Diginex Limited issued 29,520 Ordinary Shares to Arman Fatahi following the exercise of employee share options for consideration of $1.48
On August 6, 2024, Diginex Limited issued 12,300 Ordinary Shares to Ronald Kohn following the exercise of employee share options for consideration of $0.62
On August 6, 2024, Diginex Limited issued 12,300 Ordinary Shares to Josiah Choi following the exercise of employee share options for consideration of $0.62
Unregistered sales by DSL:
On May 28, 2021, DSL issued 1,111 ordinary shares to Nalimz Holding Limited for consideration of $2,222,222
On July 6, 2021, DSL issued 3,000 preferred shares to HBM IV, Inc. for consideration of $6,000,000
On December 14, 2021, DSL issued 157 ordinary shares to Hafnia SG Pte Ltd for consideration of $500,673
On March 21, 2022, DSL issued 314 ordinary shares to Working Capital Innovation Fund, L.P for consideration of $1,001,346
On 5 October 2023, DSL issued 44 ordinary shares to Loretta Wong following the exercise of employee share options for consideration of $0.00
On April 25,2024, DSL issued 44 ordinary shares to Gerard Coenen Gajardo following the exercise of employee share options for consideration of $0.00
On May 28, 2023, DSL agreed to an $8,000,000 share subscription agreement with Rhino Ventures Limited and on September 28, 2023 executed a subscription agreement (the “RVL Subscription Agreement”). Pursuant to the RVL Subscription Agreement, DSL issued Rhino Ventures Limited 5,086 ordinary shares and 10,172 warrants in exchange for $8.0 million dollars. The warrants will be exercisable for ordinary shares of DSL for a period of three years from the date they are issued and shall be exercisable at a per warrant price of US$2,512. Post the completion of the Restructuring and Share Subdivision, the number of warrant issued was adjusted to 4,170,520 with a price per warrant of US$6.13. The warrants, if fully exercised, will result in the issuance of such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 51% of the then total and outstanding shares of the Company at the time of the warrants being exercised. This will be prorated for partial exercise of warrants. Rhino Ventures Limited paid the subscription price by the payment of $6.1 million in cash and the forgiveness of $1.9 million of debt due to Rhino Ventures Limited. The RVL Subscription Agreement also activated an anti-dilution clause in the Articles of Association of DSL which resulted in HBM IV, Inc. being issued 151 Preferred Shares for zero consideration. This increased HBM IV, Inc.’s holding to 3,151 Preferred Shares in DSL.
The Restructuring
On July 15, 2024, Diginex Limited and Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited (“DSL”) completed a restructuring pursuant to a share exchange agreement (the “Share Exchange Agreement”), whereby the then existing shareholders of DSL (the “Original Shareholders”) transferred all of their shares in DSL to Diginex Limited, in consideration for Diginex Limited’s issuance of the same class of securities to such shareholders (the “Exchange”). Prior to the Exchange there were 16,756 ordinary shares of DSL issued and outstanding and 3,151 preferred shares of DSL issued and outstanding and 10,172 warrants issued and outstanding. In the Exchange, each of the securities of DSL were exchanged for securities of Diginex Limited at an exchange ratio of one (1) Ordinary Share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) shares of Diginex Limited , one (1) Preferred Share of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) Preferred Shares of Diginex Limited and one (1) warrant of DSL for four hundred and ten (410) warrants of Diginex Limited.
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In connection with the Exchange, Diginex Limited and security holders of DSL consummated the following transactions (the “Ancillary Transactions”): (i) Diginex Limited issued $4.3 million new convertible loan notes to certain Original Shareholders in consideration for the cancellation of the then existing convertible loan notes issued by DSL and held by such Original Shareholders; (ii) Diginex Limited granted certain share options under the new share option plan that was adopted by Diginex Limited to the holders of the unexercised share options granted by DSL (the “Original Share Options”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Share Options held by such holders. At time of Restructuring there were 629,760 vested but non exercised shares options and unvested share options exercisable for such number of Ordinary Shares equal to 1.3% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company at time of vesting and (iii) Diginex Limited granted certain warrants to purchase Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited to the holders of the then existing warrants to purchase ordinary shares of DSL (the “Original Warrants”), in consideration for the cancellation of the Original Warrants held by such holders. The convertible loan notes will automatically convert into Ordinary Shares of Diginex Limited upon the effectiveness of this registration statement and whilst there is no automatic vesting of any unvested share options upon completion of this Offering the board of directors, at their discretion, do have the ability to accelerate vesting at any point. At the time of this registration statement there was no confirmation if the board of directors will accelerate vesting. The fair value of all unvested ESOP as of the date of this registration statement is $1.8 million of which $0.2 million was recognized in the combined financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2024.
We believe that the offers, sales and issuances of the securities described in the preceding paragraphs were exempt from registration either (a) under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, in that the transactions were between an issuer and sophisticated investors or members of its senior executive management and did not involve any public offering within the meaning of Section 4(a)(2), (b) under Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act in that offers, sales and issuances were not made to persons in the United States and no directed selling efforts were made in the United States, or (c) under Rule 701 promulgated under the Securities Act in that the transactions were underwritten compensatory benefit plans or written compensatory contracts.
Item 8. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.
(a) The following exhibits are included or incorporated by reference in this registration statement on Form F-1:
* Filed herewith.
# Previously filed.
II-3 |
(b) Financial Statement Schedules.
All schedules have been omitted because they are not required, are not applicable or the information is otherwise set forth in the financial statements or notes thereto.
Item 9. Undertakings.
(a) The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes:
(1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to this registration statement:
(i) to include any prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act;
(ii) to reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after the effective date of the registration statement (or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in the registration statement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities offered would not exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of prospectus filed with the SEC pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more than 20 percent change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the “Calculation of Registration Fee” table in the effective registration statement; and
(iii) to include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the registration statement or any material change to such information in the registration statement;
provided, however, that:
Paragraphs (i), (ii) and (iii) do not apply if the information required to be included in a post-effective amendment by those paragraphs is contained in reports filed with or furnished to the SEC by the Registrant pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), that are incorporated by reference in the registration statement, or is contained in a form of prospectus filed pursuant to Rule 424(b) that is part of the registration statement.
(2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering.
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(4) To file a post-effective amendment to the registration statement to include any financial statements required by Item 8.A of Form 20-F at the start of any delayed offering or throughout a continuous offering. Financial statements and information otherwise required by Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933 need not be furnished, provided that the Registrant includes in the prospectus, by means of a post-effective amendment, financial statements required pursuant to this paragraph (a)(4) and other information necessary to ensure that all other information in the prospectus is at least as current as the date of those financial statements. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a post-effective amendment need not be filed to include financial statements and information required by Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933 or Item 8.A of Form 20-F if such financial statements and information are contained in periodic reports filed with or furnished to the SEC by the Registrant pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 that are incorporated by reference in the registration statement.
(5) That, for the purpose of determining liability under the Securities Act to any purchaser:
(i) Each prospectus filed by a Registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3) shall be deemed to be part of the registration statement as of the date the filed prospectus was deemed part of and included in the registration statement; and
(ii) Each prospectus required to be filed pursuant to Rule 424(b)(2), (b)(5) or (b)(7) as part of a registration statement in reliance on Rule 430B relating to an offering made pursuant to Rule 415(a)(1)(i), (vii) or (x) for the purpose of providing the information required by Section 10(a) of the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of and included in the registration statement as of the earlier of the date such form of prospectus is first used after effectiveness or the date of the first contract of sale of securities in the offering described in the prospectus. As provided in Rule 430B, for liability purposes of the issuer and any person that is at that date an underwriter, such date shall be deemed to be a new effective date of the registration statement relating to the securities in the registration statement to which that prospectus relates, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof. Provided, however, that no statement made in a registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement or made in a document incorporated or deemed incorporated by reference into the registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement will, as to a purchaser with a time of contract of sale prior to such effective date, supersede or modify any statement that was made in the registration statement or prospectus that was part of the registration statement or made in any such document immediately prior to such effective date.
(b) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the SEC such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
(c) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:
(i) That for purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act, the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of this registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a form of prospectus filed by the registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of this registration statement as of the time it was declared effective.
(ii) For the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing this Form F-1 and has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in Hong Kong on October 21, 2024.
Diginex Limited | ||
/s/ Mark Blick | ||
Name: | Mark Blick | |
Title: | Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this registration statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities and on the date indicated.
Signature | Title | Date | ||
/s/ Mark Blick | Chief Executive Officer and Director | October 21, 2024 | ||
Mark Blick | (Principal Executive Officer) | |||
/s/ Miles Pelham | Chairman and Director | October 21, 2024 | ||
Miles Pelham | ||||
/s/ Paul Ewing | Chief Financial Officer | October 21, 2024 | ||
Paul Ewing | (Principal Accounting Officer and Principal Financial Officer) |
AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the undersigned has signed this registration statement, solely in its capacity as the duly authorized representative of Diginex Limited, Newark, Delaware, on the 4th day of October 21, 2024.
PUGLISI & ASSOCIATES | ||
By: | /s/ Donald J. Puglisi | |
Name: | Donald J. Puglisi | |
Title: | Authorized Representative |
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Exhibit 3.4
Companies Act (Revised)
Company Limited by Shares
Diginex Limited
AMENDED AND RESTATED
memorandum of association
(Adopted by special resolution passed on […] 2024 and conditional upon and with effect from […])
Companies Act (Revised)
Company Limited by Shares
Amended and Restated
Memorandum of Association
of
Diginex Limited
(Adopted by special resolution passed on […] 2024 and conditional upon and with effect from […])
1 | The name of the Company is Diginex Limited. |
2 | The Company’s registered office will be situated at the office of Ogier Global (Cayman) Limited, 89 Nexus Way, Camana Bay, Grand Cayman, KY1-9009, Cayman Islands or at such other place in the Cayman Islands as the directors may at any time decide. |
3 | The Company’s objects are unrestricted. As provided by section 7(4) of the Companies Act (Revised), the Company has full power and authority to carry out any object not prohibited by any law of the Cayman Islands. |
4 | The Company has unrestricted corporate capacity. Without limitation to the foregoing, as provided by section 27 (2) of the Companies Act (Revised), the Company has and is capable of exercising all the functions of a natural person of full capacity irrespective of any question of corporate benefit. |
5 | Nothing in any of the preceding paragraphs permits the Company to carry on any of the following businesses without being duly licensed, namely: |
(a) | the business of a bank or trust company without being licensed in that behalf under the Banks and Trust Companies Act (Revised); or |
(b) | insurance business from within the Cayman Islands or the business of an insurance manager, agent, sub-agent or broker without being licensed in that behalf under the Insurance Act (Revised);or |
(c) | the business of company management without being licensed in that behalf under the Companies Management Act (Revised). |
6 | Unless licensed to do so, the Company will not trade in the Cayman Islands with any person, firm or corporation except in furtherance of its business carried on outside the Cayman Islands. Despite this, the Company may effect and conclude contracts in the Cayman Islands and exercise in the Cayman Islands any of its powers necessary for the carrying on of its business outside the Cayman Islands. |
7 | The Company is a company limited by shares and accordingly the liability of each member is limited to the amount (if any) unpaid on that member’s shares. |
8 | The share capital of the Company is USD50,000 divided into 960,000,000 Ordinary Shares of USD0.00005 par value each and 40,000,000 Preferred Shares of USD0.00005 par value each. However, subject to the Companies Act (Revised) and the Company’s articles of association, the Company has power to do any one or more of the following: |
(a) | to redeem or repurchase any of its shares; |
(b) | to increase or reduce its capital; |
(c) | to issue any part of its capital (whether original, redeemed, increased or reduced): |
(i) | with or without any preferential, deferred, qualified or special rights, privileges or conditions; or |
(ii) | subject to any limitations or restrictions |
and unless the condition of issue expressly declares otherwise, every issue of shares (whether declared to be ordinary, preference or otherwise) is subject to this power; or
(d) | to alter any of those rights, privileges, conditions, limitations or restrictions. |
9 | The Company has power to register by way of continuation as a body corporate limited by shares under the laws of any jurisdiction outside the Cayman Islands and to be deregistered in the Cayman Islands. |
Companies Act (Revised)
Company Limited By Shares
Diginex Limited
AMENDED AND RESTATED
articles of association
(Adopted by special resolution passed on […] 2024 and conditional upon and with effect from […])
Contents
1 Definitions, interpretation and exclusion of Table A | 1 |
Definitions | 1 |
Interpretation | 4 |
Exclusion of Table A Articles | 5 |
2 Shares | 5 |
Power to issue Shares and options, with or without special rights | 5 |
Power to issue fractions of a Share | 6 |
Power to pay commissions and brokerage fees | 6 |
Trusts not recognised | 6 |
Security interests | 6 |
Power to vary class rights | 6 |
Effect of new Share issue on existing class rights | 7 |
No bearer Shares or warrants | 7 |
Treasury Shares | 7 |
Rights attaching to Treasury Shares and related matters | 7 |
Register of Members | 8 |
Rights of Preferred Shares | 8 |
Annual Return | 9 |
3 Share certificates | 10 |
Issue of share certificates | 10 |
Renewal of lost or damaged share certificates | 10 |
4 Lien on Shares | 11 |
Nature and scope of lien | 11 |
Company may sell Shares to satisfy lien | 11 |
Authority to execute instrument of transfer | 11 |
Consequences of sale of Shares to satisfy lien | 12 |
Application of proceeds of sale | 12 |
5 Calls on Shares and forfeiture | 12 |
Power to make calls and effect of calls | 12 |
Time when call made | 13 |
Liability of joint holders | 13 |
Interest on unpaid calls | 13 |
Deemed calls | 13 |
Power to accept early payment | 13 |
Power to make different arrangements at time of issue of Shares | 13 |
Notice of default | 14 |
Forfeiture or surrender of Shares | 14 |
Disposal of forfeited or surrendered Share and power to cancel forfeiture or surrender | 14 |
Effect of forfeiture or surrender on former Member | 14 |
Evidence of forfeiture or surrender | 15 |
Sale of forfeited or surrendered Shares | 15 |
6 Transfer of Shares | 15 |
Form of Transfer | 15 |
Power to refuse registration for Shares not listed on a Designated Stock Exchange | 15 |
Suspension of transfers | 16 |
Company may retain instrument of transfer | 16 |
Notice of refusal to register | 16 |
7 Transmission of Shares | 17 |
Persons entitled on death of a Member | 17 |
Registration of transfer of a Share following death or bankruptcy | 17 |
Indemnity | 17 |
Rights of person entitled to a Share following death or bankruptcy | 18 |
8 Alteration of capital | 18 |
Increasing, consolidating, converting, dividing and cancelling share capital | 18 |
Dealing with fractions resulting from consolidation of Shares | 18 |
Reducing share capital | 19 |
9 Redemption and purchase of own Shares | 19 |
Power to issue redeemable Shares and to purchase own Shares | 19 |
Power to pay for redemption or purchase in cash or in specie | 19 |
Effect of redemption or purchase of a Share | 20 |
10 Meetings of Members | 20 |
Annual and extraordinary general meetings | 20 |
Power to call meetings | 20 |
Content of notice | 21 |
Period of notice | 22 |
Persons entitled to receive notice | 22 |
Accidental omission to give notice or non-receipt of notice | 22 |
11 Proceedings at meetings of Members | 23 |
Quorum | 23 |
Lack of quorum | 23 |
Chairman | 23 |
Right of a Director to attend and speak | 23 |
Accommodation of Members at Virtual Meeting | 24 |
Security | 24 |
Adjournment, postponement and cancellation | 24 |
Method of voting | 24 |
Taking of a poll | 25 |
Chairman’s casting vote | 25 |
Written resolutions | 25 |
Sole-Member Company | 27 |
12 Voting rights of Members | 27 |
Right to vote | 27 |
Rights of joint holders | 27 |
Representation of corporate Members | 27 |
Member with mental disorder | 28 |
Objections to admissibility of votes | 28 |
Form of proxy | 28 |
How and when proxy is to be delivered | 29 |
Voting by proxy | 30 |
13 Number of Directors | 30 |
14 Appointment, disqualification and removal of Directors | 31 |
First Directors | 31 |
No age limit | 31 |
Corporate Directors | 31 |
No shareholding qualification | 31 |
Appointment of Directors | 31 |
Board’s power to appoint Directors | 31 |
Removal of Directors | 32 |
Resignation of Directors | 32 |
Termination of the office of Director | 32 |
15 Alternate Directors | 33 |
Appointment and removal | 33 |
Notices | 33 |
Rights of alternate Director | 34 |
Appointment ceases when the appointor ceases to be a Director | 34 |
Status of alternate Director | 34 |
Status of the Director making the appointment | 34 |
16 Powers of Directors | 34 |
Powers of Directors | 34 |
Directors below the minimum number | 35 |
Appointments to office | 35 |
Provisions for employees | 36 |
Exercise of voting rights | 36 |
Remuneration | 36 |
Disclosure of information | 36 |
17 Delegation of powers | 37 |
Power to delegate any of the Directors’ powers to a committee | 37 |
Local boards | 37 |
Power to appoint an agent of the Company | 38 |
Power to appoint an attorney or authorised signatory of the Company | 38 |
Borrowing Powers | 38 |
Corporate Governance | 39 |
18 Meetings of Directors | 39 |
Regulation of Directors’ meetings | 39 |
Calling meetings | 39 |
Notice of meetings | 39 |
Use of technology | 39 |
Quorum | 39 |
Chairman or deputy to preside | 39 |
Voting | 40 |
Recording of dissent | 40 |
Written resolutions | 40 |
Validity of acts of Directors in spite of formal defect | 41 |
19 Permissible Directors’ interests and disclosure | 41 |
20 Minutes | 41 |
21 Accounts and audit | 41 |
Auditors | 42 |
22 Record dates | 42 |
23 Dividends | 42 |
Source of dividends | 42 |
Declaration of dividends by Members | 43 |
Payment of interim dividends and declaration of final dividends by Directors | 43 |
Apportionment of dividends | 43 |
Right of set off | 44 |
Power to pay other than in cash | 44 |
How payments may be made | 44 |
Dividends or other monies not to bear interest in absence of special rights | 45 |
Dividends unable to be paid or unclaimed | 45 |
24 Capitalisation of profits | 45 |
Capitalisation of profits or of any share premium account or capital redemption reserve; | 45 |
Applying an amount for the benefit of Members | 46 |
25 Share Premium Account | 46 |
Directors to maintain share premium account | 46 |
Debits to share premium account | 46 |
26 Seal | 46 |
Company seal | 46 |
Duplicate seal | 46 |
When and how seal is to be used | 47 |
If no seal is adopted or used | 47 |
Power to allow non-manual signatures and facsimile printing of seal | 47 |
Validity of execution | 47 |
27 Indemnity | 47 |
Release | 48 |
Insurance | 48 |
28 Notices | 49 |
Form of notices | 49 |
Electronic communications | 49 |
Persons entitled to notices | 50 |
Persons authorised to give notices | 50 |
Delivery of written notices | 50 |
Joint holders | 50 |
Signatures | 51 |
Giving notice to a deceased or bankrupt Member | 51 |
Date of giving notices | 51 |
Saving provision | 52 |
29 Authentication of Electronic Records | 52 |
Application of Articles | 52 |
Authentication of documents sent by Members by Electronic means | 52 |
Authentication of document sent by the Secretary or Officers of the Company by Electronic means | 53 |
Manner of signing | 53 |
Saving provision | 53 |
30 Transfer by way of continuation | 54 |
31 Winding up | 54 |
Distribution of assets in specie | 54 |
No obligation to accept liability | 54 |
32 Amendment of Memorandum and Articles | 54 |
Power to change name or amend Memorandum | 54 |
Power to amend these Articles | 54 |
Companies Act (Revised)
Company Limited by Shares
Amended and Restated Articles of Association
of
Diginex Limited
(Adopted by special resolution passed on […] 2024 and conditional upon and with effect from […])
1 | Definitions, interpretation and exclusion of Table A |
Definitions
1.1 | In these Articles, the following definitions apply: |
Act means the Companies Act (Revised) of the Cayman Islands, including any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof for the time being in force;
Articles means, as appropriate:
(a) | these articles of association as amended from time to time: or |
(b) | two or more particular articles of these Articles; |
and Article refers to a particular article of these Articles;
Auditors means the auditor or auditors for the time being of the Company;
Board means the board of Directors from time to time;
Business Day means a day when banks in Grand Cayman, the Cayman Islands are open for the transaction of normal banking business and for the avoidance of doubt, shall not include a Saturday, Sunday or public holiday in the Cayman Islands;
Cayman Islands means the British Overseas Territory of the Cayman Islands;
Clear Days, in relation to a period of notice, means that period of calendar days excluding:
(a) | the calendar day when the notice is given or deemed to be given; and |
(b) | the calendar day for which it is given or on which it is to take effect; |
Commission means Securities and Exchange Commission of the United States of America or other federal agency for the time being administering the U.S. Securities Act;
1 |
Company means the above-named company;
Default Rate means ten per cent per annum;
Designated Stock Exchanges means Nasdaq Capital Market in the United States of America for so long as any class of the Company’s Shares are there listed and any other stock exchange on which any class of the Company’s Shares are listed for trading;
Designated Stock Exchange Rules means the relevant code, rules and regulations, as amended, from time to time, applicable as a result of the original and continued listing of any Shares on the Designated Stock Exchanges;
Directors means the directors for the time being of the Company and the expression Director shall be construed accordingly;
Electronic has the meaning given to that term in the Electronic Transactions Act (Revised) of the Cayman Islands;
Electronic Communication Facilities means video, video-conferencing, internet or online conferencing applications, telephone or tele-conferencing and/or any other video-communications, internet or online conferencing application or telecommunications facilities by means of which all persons participating in a meeting are capable of hearing and being heard by each other;
Electronic Record has the meaning given to that term in the Electronic Transactions Act (Revised) of the Cayman Islands;
Electronic Signature has the meaning given to that term in the Electronic Transactions Act (Revised) of the Cayman Islands;
Fully Paid Up means:
(a) | in relation to a Share with par value, means that the par value for that Share and any premium payable in respect of the issue of that Share, has been fully paid or credited as paid in money or money’s worth; and |
(b) | in relation to a Share without par value, means that the agreed issue price for that Share has been fully paid or credited as paid in money or money’s worth; |
General Meeting means a general meeting of the Company duly constituted in accordance with the Articles;
Independent Director means a Director who is an independent director as defined in the Designated Stock Exchange Rules as determined by the Board;
Member means any person or persons entered on the register of Members from time to time as the holder of a Share;
2 |
Memorandum means the memorandum of association of the Company as amended from time to time;
month means a calendar month;
Officer means a person appointed to hold an office in the Company including a Director, alternate Director or liquidator and excluding the Secretary;
Ordinary Resolution means a resolution of passed by a simple majority of the votes by Members who (being entitled to do so) vote in person or by proxy, or in the case of corporations, by their duly authorised representatives, at a General Meeting. The expression includes a written resolution signed by the requisite majority in accordance with Article 11.14;
Ordinary Share means an ordinary share in the capital of the Company, having the rights set out in these Articles;
Partly Paid Up means:
(a) | in relation to a Share with par value, that the par value for that Share and any premium payable in respect of the issue of that Share, has not been fully paid or credited as paid in money or money’s worth; and |
(b) | in relation to a Share without par value, means that the agreed issue price for that Share has not been fully paid or credited as paid in money or money’s worth; |
Preferred Share means a preferred share in the capital of the Company, having the rights set out in these Articles;
Secretary means a person appointed to perform the duties of the secretary of the Company, including a joint, assistant or deputy secretary;
Share means a share in the share capital of the Company and the expression:
(a) | includes stock (except where a distinction between shares and stock is expressed or implied); and |
(b) | where the context permits, also includes a fraction of a Share; |
Special Resolution means a resolution of a General Meeting or a resolution of a meeting of the holders of any class of Shares in a class meeting duly constituted in accordance with the Articles in each case passed by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the votes by Members who (being entitled to do so) vote in person or by proxy at that meeting. The expression includes a unanimous written resolution signed by all of the Members entitled to vote at such meeting;
Treasury Shares means Shares held in treasury pursuant to the Act and Article 2.13;
3 |
U.S. Securities Act means the Securities Act of 1933 of the United States of America, as amended, or any similar federal statute and the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder, all as the same shall be in effect at the time; and
Virtual Meeting means any general meeting of the Members at which the Members (and any other permitted participants of such meeting, including without limitation the chairman of the meeting and any Directors) are permitted to attend and participate by means of Electronic Communication Facilities.
Interpretation
1.2 | In the interpretation of these Articles, the following provisions apply unless the context otherwise requires: |
(a) | A reference in these Articles to a statute is a reference to a statute of the Cayman Islands as known by its short title, and includes: |
(i) | any statutory modification, amendment or re-enactment; and |
(ii) | any subordinate legislation or regulations issued under that statute. |
Without limitation to the preceding sentence, a reference to a revised Act of the Cayman Islands is taken to be a reference to the revision of that Act in force from time to time as amended from time to time.
(b) | Headings are inserted for convenience only and do not affect the interpretation of these Articles, unless there is ambiguity. |
(c) | If a day on which any act, matter or thing is to be done under these Articles is not a Business Day, the act, matter or thing must be done on the next Business Day. |
(d) | A word which denotes the singular also denotes the plural, a word which denotes the plural also denotes the singular, and a reference to any gender also denotes the other genders. |
(e) | A reference to a person includes, as appropriate, a company, trust, partnership, joint venture, association, body corporate or government agency. |
(f) | Where a word or phrase is given a defined meaning another part of speech or grammatical form in respect to that word or phrase has a corresponding meaning. |
(g) | All references to time are to be calculated by reference to time in the place where the Company’s registered office is located. |
(h) | The words written and in writing include all modes of representing or reproducing words in a visible form, but do not include an Electronic Record where the distinction between a document in writing and an Electronic Record is expressed or implied. |
4 |
(i) | The words including, include and in particular or any similar expression are to be construed without limitation. |
(j) | The term “present” means, in respect of any person attending a meeting, such person’s presence at a general meeting of Members (or any meeting of the holders of any class of Shares), which may be satisfied by means of such person or, if a corporation or other non-natural person, its duly authorized representative (or, in the case of any Member, a proxy which has been validly appointed by such Member in accordance with these Articles), being: (a) physically present at the meeting; or (b) in the case of any meeting at which Electronic Communication Facilities are permitted in accordance with these Articles, including any Virtual Meeting, connected by means of the use of such Electronic Communication Facilities. |
1.3 | The headings in these Articles are intended for convenience only and shall not affect the interpretation of these Articles. |
Exclusion of Table A Articles
1.4 | The regulations contained in Table A in the First Schedule of the Act and any other regulations contained in any statute or subordinate legislation are expressly excluded and do not apply to the Company. |
2 | Shares |
Power to issue Shares and options, with or without special rights
2.1 | Subject to the provisions of the Act and these Articles about the redemption and purchase of the Shares (and to any direction that may be given by the Company in General Meeting) and, where applicable, the rules and regulations of the Designated Stock Exchange, the Commission and/or any other competent regulatory authority or otherwise under applicable law, the Directors have general and unconditional authority to allot (with or without confirming rights of renunciation), issue, grant options over or otherwise deal with any unissued Shares to such persons, at such times and on such terms and conditions as they may decide. No Share may be issued at a discount except in accordance with the provisions of the Act. |
2.2 | Without limitation to the preceding Article, the Directors may so deal with the unissued Shares: |
(a) | either at a premium or at par; or |
(b) | with or without preferred, deferred or other special rights or restrictions, whether in regard to dividend, voting, return of capital or otherwise. |
2.3 | Without limitation to the two preceding Articles, |
(a) | the Company may issue rights, options, warrants or convertible securities or securities of similar nature conferring the right upon the holders thereof to subscribe for, purchase or receive any class of Shares or other securities in the Company at such times and on such terms and conditions as the Directors may decide; and |
(b) | the Directors may refuse to accept any application for Shares, and may accept any application in whole or in part, for any reason or for no reason. |
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Power to issue fractions of a Share
2.4 | Subject to the Act, the Company may issue fractions of a Share of any class. A fraction of a Share shall be subject to and carry the corresponding fraction of liabilities (whether with respect to calls or otherwise), limitations, preferences, privileges, qualifications, restrictions, rights and other attributes of a Share of that class of Shares. |
Power to pay commissions and brokerage fees
2.5 | The Company may pay a commission to any person in consideration of that person: |
(a) | subscribing or agreeing to subscribe, whether absolutely or conditionally; or |
(b) | procuring or agreeing to procure subscriptions, whether absolute or conditional, |
for any Shares. That commission may be satisfied by the payment of cash or the allotment of Fully Paid Up or Partly Paid Up Shares or partly in one way and partly in another.
2.6 | The Company may employ a broker in the issue of its capital and pay him any proper commission or brokerage. |
Trusts not recognised
2.7 | Except as required by the Act: |
(a) | no person shall be recognised by the Company as holding any Share on any trust; and |
(b) | no person other than the Member shall be recognised by the Company as having any right in a Share. |
Security interests
2.8 | Notwithstanding the preceding Article, the Company may (but shall not be obliged to) recognise a security interest of which it has actual notice over shares. The Company shall not be treated as having recognised any such security interest unless it has so agreed in writing with the secured party. |
Power to vary class rights
2.9 | If the share capital is divided into different classes of Shares then, unless the terms on which a class of Shares was issued state otherwise, the rights attaching to a class of Shares may only be varied if one of the following applies: |
(a) | the Members holding not less than two-thirds of the issued Shares of that class consent in writing to the variation; or |
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(b) | the variation is made with the sanction of a Special Resolution passed at a separate general meeting of the Members holding the issued Shares of that class. |
For the purpose of Article 2.9(b), all the provisions of these Articles relating to general meetings apply, mutatis mutandis, to every such separate meeting except that the necessary quorum shall be one or more persons holding, or representing by proxy, not less than one third of the issued Shares of the class.
2.10 | For the purposes of a separate class meeting, the Directors may treat two or more or all the classes of Shares as forming one class of Shares if the Directors consider that such classes of Shares would be affected in the same way by the proposals under consideration, but in any other case shall treat them as separate classes of Shares. |
Effect of new Share issue on existing class rights
2.11 | Unless the terms on which a class of Shares was issued state otherwise, the rights conferred on the Member holding Shares of any class shall not be deemed to be varied by the creation or issue of further Shares ranking pari passu with the existing Shares of that class. The rights attached to, or otherwise conferred upon the holders of, the Shares of any class shall not be deemed to be materially adversely varied by the creation or issue of Preferred Shares with preferred or other rights prescribed according to Article 2.20 including, without limitation, the creation of Shares with enhanced or weighted voting rights |
No bearer Shares or warrants
2.12 | The Company shall not issue Shares or warrants to bearers. |
Treasury Shares
2.13 | Shares that the Company purchases, redeems or acquires by way of surrender in accordance with the Act shall be held as Treasury Shares and not treated as cancelled if: |
(a) | the Directors so determine prior to the purchase, redemption or surrender of those shares; and |
(b) | the relevant provisions of the Memorandum and Articles and the Act are otherwise complied with. |
Rights attaching to Treasury Shares and related matters
2.14 | No dividend may be declared or paid, and no other distribution (whether in cash or otherwise) of the Company’s assets (including any distribution of assets to Members on a winding up) may be made to the Company in respect of a Treasury Share. |
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2.15 | The Company shall be entered in the register of Members as the holder of the Treasury Shares. However: |
(a) | the Company shall not be treated as a Member for any purpose and shall not exercise any right in respect of the Treasury Shares, and any purported exercise of such a right shall be void; and |
(b) | a Treasury Share shall not be voted, directly or indirectly, at any meeting of the Company and shall not be counted in determining the total number of issued shares at any given time, whether for the purposes of these Articles or the Act. |
2.16 | Nothing in Article 2.15 prevents an allotment of Shares as Fully Paid Up bonus shares in respect of a Treasury Share and Shares allotted as Fully Paid Up bonus shares in respect of a Treasury Share shall be treated as Treasury Shares. |
2.17 | Treasury Shares may be disposed of by the Company in accordance with the Act and otherwise on such terms and conditions as the Directors determine. |
Register of Members
2.18 | The Directors shall keep or cause to be kept a register of Members as required by the Act and may cause the Company to maintain one or more branch registers as contemplated by the Act, provided that where the Company is maintaining one or more branch registers, the Directors shall ensure that a duplicate of each branch register is kept with the Company’s principal register of Members and updated within such number of days of any amendment having been made to such branch register as may be required by the Act. |
2.19 | The title to Shares listed on a Designated Stock Exchange may be evidenced and transferred in accordance with the laws applicable to the rules and regulations of the Designated Stock Exchange and, for these purposes, the register of Members may be maintained in accordance with section 40B of the Act. |
Rights of Preferred Shares
2.20 | Before any Preferred Shares of any series are issued, the Directors shall fix, by resolution or resolutions, the following provisions of such series: |
(a) | the designation of such series and the number of Preferred Shares to constitute such series; |
(b) | whether the shares of such series shall have voting rights, in addition to any voting rights provided by Law, and, if so, the terms of such voting rights, which may be general or limited; |
(c) | the dividends, if any, payable on such series, whether any such dividends shall be cumulative, and, if so, from what dates, the conditions and dates upon which such dividends shall be payable, the preference or relation which such dividends shall bear to the dividends payable on any Shares of any other class of Shares or any other series of Preferred Shares; |
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(d) | whether the Preferred Shares or such series shall be subject to redemption by the Company, and, if so, the times, prices and other conditions of such redemption; |
(e) | the amount or amounts payable upon Preferred Shares of such series upon, and the rights of the holders of such series in, a voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up, or upon any distribution of the assets, of the Company; |
(f) | whether the Preferred Shares of such series shall be subject to the operation of a retirement or sinking fund and, if so, the extent to and manner in which any such retirement or sinking fund shall be applied to the purchase or redemption of the Preferred Shares of such series for retirement or other corporate purposes and the terms and provisions relative to the operation of the retirement or sinking fund; |
(g) | whether the Preferred Shares of such series shall be convertible into, or exchangeable for, Shares of any other class of Shares or any other series of Preferred Shares or any other securities and, if so, the price or prices or the rate or rates of conversion or exchange and the method, if any, of adjusting the same, and any other terms and conditions of conversion or exchange; |
(h) | the limitations and restrictions, if any, to be effective while any Preferred Shares or such series are outstanding upon the payment of dividends or the making of other distributions on, and upon the purchase, redemption or other acquisition by the Company of, the existing Shares or Shares of any other class of Shares or any other series of Preferred Shares; |
(i) | the conditions or restrictions, if any, upon the creation of indebtedness of the Company or upon the issue of any additional Shares, including additional shares of such series or of any other class of Shares or any other series of Preferred Shares; and |
(j) | any other powers, preferences and relative, participating, optional and other special rights, and any qualifications, limitations and restrictions of any other class of Shares or any other series of Preferred Shares. |
Annual Return
2.21 | The Directors in each calendar year shall prepare or cause to be prepared an annual return and declaration setting forth the particulars required by the Act and shall deliver a copy thereof to the registrar of companies for the Cayman Islands. |
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3 | Share certificates |
Issue of share certificates
3.1 | A Member shall only be entitled to a share certificate if the Directors resolve that share certificates shall be issued. Share certificates representing Shares, if any, shall be in such form as the Directors may determine. If the Directors resolve that share certificates shall be issued, upon being entered in the register of Members as the holder of a Share, the Directors may issue to any Member: |
(a) | without payment, one certificate for all the Shares of each class held by that Member (and, upon transferring a part of the Member’s holding of Shares of any class, to a certificate for the balance of that holding); and |
(b) | upon payment of such reasonable sum as the Directors may determine for every certificate after the first, several certificates each for one or more of that Member’s Shares. |
3.2 | Every certificate shall specify the number, class and distinguishing numbers (if any) of the Shares to which it relates and whether they are Fully Paid Up or Partly Paid Up. A certificate may be executed under seal or executed in such other manner as the Directors determine. |
3.3 | Every certificate shall bear legends required under the applicable laws, including the U.S. Securities Act (to the extent applicable). |
3.4 | The Company shall not be bound to issue more than one certificate for Shares held jointly by several persons and delivery of a certificate for a Share to one joint holder shall be a sufficient delivery to all of them. |
Renewal of lost or damaged share certificates
3.5 | If a share certificate is defaced, worn-out, lost or destroyed, it may be renewed on such terms (if any) as to: |
(a) | evidence; |
(b) | indemnity; |
(c) | payment of the expenses reasonably incurred by the Company in investigating the evidence; and |
(d) | payment of a reasonable fee, if any for issuing a replacement share certificate, |
as the Directors may determine, and (in the case of defacement or wearing-out) on delivery to the Company of the old certificate.
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4 | Lien on Shares |
Nature and scope of lien
4.1 | The Company has a first and paramount lien on all Shares (whether Fully Paid Up or not) registered in the name of a Member (whether solely or jointly with others). The lien is for all monies payable to the Company by the Member or the Member’s estate: |
(a) | either alone or jointly with any other person, whether or not that other person is a Member; and |
(b) | whether or not those monies are presently payable. |
4.2 | At any time the Board may declare any Share to be wholly or partly exempt from the provisions of this Article. |
Company may sell Shares to satisfy lien
4.3 | The Company may sell any Shares over which it has a lien if all of the following conditions are met: |
(a) | the sum in respect of which the lien exists is presently payable; |
(b) | the Company gives notice to the Member holding the Share (or to the person entitled to it in consequence of the death or bankruptcy of that Member) demanding payment and stating that if the notice is not complied with the Shares may be sold; and |
(c) | that sum is not paid within fourteen (14) Clear Days after that notice is deemed to be given under these Articles, |
and Shares to which this Article 4.3 applies shall be referred to as Lien Default Shares.
4.4 | The Lien Default Shares may be sold in such manner as the Board determines. |
4.5 | To the maximum extent permitted by law, the Directors shall incur no personal liability to the Member concerned in respect of the sale. |
Authority to execute instrument of transfer
4.6 | To give effect to a sale, the Directors may authorise any person to execute an instrument of transfer of the Lien Default Shares sold to, or in accordance with the directions of, the purchaser. |
4.7 | The title of the transferee of the Lien Default Shares shall not be affected by any irregularity or invalidity in the proceedings in respect of the sale. |
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Consequences of sale of Shares to satisfy lien
4.8 | On a sale pursuant to the preceding Articles: |
(a) | the name of the Member concerned shall be removed from the register of Members as the holder of those Lien Default Shares; and |
(b) | that person shall deliver to the Company for cancellation the certificate (if any) for those Lien Default Shares. |
4.9 | Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 4.8, such person shall remain liable to the Company for all monies which, at the date of sale, were presently payable by him to the Company in respect of those Lien Default Shares. That person shall also be liable to pay interest on those monies from the date of sale until payment at the rate at which interest was payable before that sale or, failing that, at the Default Rate. The Board may waive payment wholly or in part or enforce payment without any allowance for the value of the Lien Default Shares at the time of sale or for any consideration received on their disposal. |
Application of proceeds of sale
4.10 | The net proceeds of the sale, after payment of the costs, shall be applied in payment of so much of the sum for which the lien exists as is presently payable. Any residue shall be paid to the person whose Lien Default Shares have been sold: |
(a) | if no certificate for the Lien Default Shares was issued, at the date of the sale; or |
(b) | if a certificate for the Lien Default Shares was issued, upon surrender to the Company of that certificate for cancellation |
but, in either case, subject to the Company retaining a like lien for all sums not presently payable as existed on the Lien Default Shares before the sale.
5 | Calls on Shares and forfeiture |
Power to make calls and effect of calls
5.1 | Subject to the terms of allotment, the Board may make calls on the Members in respect of any monies unpaid on their Shares including any premium. The call may provide for payment to be by instalments. Subject to receiving at least 14 Clear Days’ notice specifying when and where payment is to be made, each Member shall pay to the Company the amount called on his Shares as required by the notice. |
5.2 | Before receipt by the Company of any sum due under a call, that call may be revoked in whole or in part and payment of a call may be postponed in whole or in part. Where a call is to be paid in instalments, the Company may revoke the call in respect of all or any remaining instalments in whole or in part and may postpone payment of all or any of the remaining instalments in whole or in part. |
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5.3 | A Member on whom a call is made shall remain liable for that call notwithstanding the subsequent transfer of the Shares in respect of which the call was made. He shall not be liable for calls made after he is no longer registered as Member in respect of those Shares. |
Time when call made
5.4 | A call shall be deemed to have been made at the time when the resolution of the Directors authorising the call was passed. |
Liability of joint holders
5.5 | Members registered as the joint holders of a Share shall be jointly and severally liable to pay all calls in respect of the Share. |
Interest on unpaid calls
5.6 | If a call remains unpaid after it has become due and payable the person from whom it is due and payable shall pay interest on the amount unpaid from the day it became due and payable until it is paid: |
(a) | at the rate fixed by the terms of allotment of the Share or in the notice of the call; or |
(b) | if no rate is fixed, at the Default Rate. |
The Directors may waive payment of the interest wholly or in part.
Deemed calls
5.7 | Any amount payable in respect of a Share, whether on allotment or on a fixed date or otherwise, shall be deemed to be payable as a call. If the amount is not paid when due the provisions of these Articles shall apply as if the amount had become due and payable by virtue of a call. |
Power to accept early payment
5.8 | The Company may accept from a Member the whole or a part of the amount remaining unpaid on Shares held by him although no part of that amount has been called up. |
Power to make different arrangements at time of issue of Shares
5.9 | Subject to the terms of allotment, the Directors may make arrangements on the issue of Shares to distinguish between Members in the amounts and times of payment of calls on their Shares. |
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Notice of default
5.10 | If a call remains unpaid after it has become due and payable the Directors may give to the person from whom it is due not less than 14 Clear Days’ notice requiring payment of: |
(a) | the amount unpaid; |
(b) | any interest which may have accrued; and |
(c) | any expenses which have been incurred by the Company due to that person’s default. |
5.11 | The notice shall state the following: |
(a) | the place where payment is to be made; and |
(b) | a warning that if the notice is not complied with the Shares in respect of which the call is made will be liable to be forfeited. |
Forfeiture or surrender of Shares
5.12 | If the notice given pursuant to Article 5.10 is not complied with, the Directors may, before the payment required by the notice has been received, resolve that any Share the subject of that notice be forfeited. The forfeiture shall include all dividends or other monies payable in respect of the forfeited Share and not paid before the forfeiture. Despite the foregoing, the Board may determine that any Share the subject of that notice be accepted by the Company as surrendered by the Member holding that Share in lieu of forfeiture. |
Disposal of forfeited or surrendered Share and power to cancel forfeiture or surrender
5.13 | A forfeited or surrendered Share may be sold, re-allotted or otherwise disposed of on such terms and in such manner as the Board determine either to the former Member who held that Share or to any other person. The forfeiture or surrender may be cancelled on such terms as the Directors think fit at any time before a sale, re-allotment or other disposition. Where, for the purposes of its disposal, a forfeited or surrendered Share is to be transferred to any person, the Directors may authorise some person to execute an instrument of transfer of the Share to the transferee. The Directors may accept the surrender for no consideration of any Share in accordance with the Act. |
Effect of forfeiture or surrender on former Member
5.14 | On forfeiture or surrender: |
(a) | the name of the Member concerned shall be removed from the register of Members as the holder of those Shares and that person shall cease to be a Member in respect of those Shares; and |
(b) | that person shall surrender to the Company for cancellation the certificate (if any) for the forfeited or surrendered Shares. |
5.15 | Despite the forfeiture or surrender of his Shares, that person shall remain liable to the Company for all monies which at the date of forfeiture or surrender were presently payable by him to the Company in respect of those Shares together with: |
(a) | all expenses; and |
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(b) | interest from the date of forfeiture or surrender until payment: |
(i) | at the rate of which interest was payable on those monies before forfeiture; or |
(ii) | if no interest was so payable, at the Default Rate. |
The Directors, however, may waive payment wholly or in part.
Evidence of forfeiture or surrender
5.16 | A declaration, whether statutory or under oath, made by a Director or the Secretary shall be conclusive evidence of the following matters stated in it as against all persons claiming to be entitled to forfeited Shares: |
(a) | that the person making the declaration is a Director or Secretary of the Company, and |
(b) | that the particular Shares have been forfeited or surrendered on a particular date. |
Subject to the execution of an instrument of transfer, if necessary, the declaration shall constitute good title to the Shares.
Sale of forfeited or surrendered Shares
5.17 | Any person to whom the forfeited or surrendered Shares are disposed of shall not be bound to see to the application of the consideration, if any, of those Shares nor shall his title to the Shares be affected by any irregularity in, or invalidity of the proceedings in respect of, the forfeiture, surrender or disposal of those Shares. |
6 | Transfer of Shares |
Form of Transfer
6.1 | Subject to the following Articles about the transfer of Shares, and provided that such transfer complies with applicable rules of the Designated Stock Exchange, a Member may freely transfer Shares to another person by completing an instrument of transfer in a common form or in a form prescribed by the Designated Stock Exchange (if such Shares are listed on the Designated Stock Exchange) or in any other form approved by the Directors, executed: |
(a) | where the Shares are Fully Paid, by or on behalf of that Member; and |
(b) | where the Shares are partly paid, by or on behalf of that Member and the transferee. |
Power to refuse registration for Shares not listed on a Designated Stock Exchange
6.2 | Where the Shares of any class in question are not listed on or subject to the rules of any Designated Stock Exchange, the Directors may in their absolute discretion decline to register any transfer of such Shares which are not Fully Paid Up or on which the Company has a lien. The Directors may also, but are not required to, decline to register any transfer of any such Share, unless: |
(a) | the instrument of transfer is lodged with the Company, accompanied by the certificate (if any) for the Shares to which it relates and such other evidence as the Board may reasonably require to show the right of the transferor to make the transfer; |
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(b) | the instrument of transfer is in respect of only one class of Shares; |
(c) | the instrument of transfer is properly stamped, if required; |
(d) | in the case of a transfer to joint holders, the number of joint holders to whom the Share is to be transferred does not exceed four; |
(e) | the Shares transferred are Fully Paid Up and free of any lien in favour of the Company; and |
(f) | any applicable fee of such maximum sum as the Designated Stock Exchanges may determine to be payable, or such lesser sum as the Board may from time to time require, related to the transfer is paid to the Company. |
Suspension of transfers
6.3 | The registration of transfers may, on fourteen (14) Clear Days’ notice being given by advertisement in such one or more newspapers or by electronic means, be suspended and the register of Members closed at such times and for such periods as the Directors may, in their absolute discretion, from time to time determine, provided always that such registration of transfer shall not be suspended nor the register of Members closed for more than 30 Clear Days in any year. |
Company may retain instrument of transfer
6.4 | All instruments of transfer that are registered shall be retained by the Company. |
Notice of refusal to register
6.5 | If the Directors refuse to register a transfer of any Shares of any class not listed on a Designated Stock Exchange, they shall within one (1) month after the date on which the instrument of transfer was lodged with the Company send to each of the transferor and the transferee notice of the refusal. |
6.6 | The transferor shall be deemed to remain the holder of a Share until the name of the transferee is entered into the Register of Members. |
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7 | Transmission of Shares |
Persons entitled on death of a Member
7.1 | If a Member dies, the only persons recognised by the Company as having any title to the deceased Members’ interest are the following: |
(a) | where the deceased Member was a joint holder, the survivor or survivors; and |
(b) | where the deceased Member was a sole holder, that Member’s personal representative or representatives. |
7.2 | Nothing in these Articles shall release the deceased Member’s estate from any liability in respect of any Share, whether the deceased was a sole holder or a joint holder. |
Registration of transfer of a Share following death or bankruptcy
7.3 | A person becoming entitled to a Share in consequence of the death or bankruptcy of a Member may elect to do either of the following: |
(a) | to become the holder of the Share; or |
(b) | to transfer the Share to another person. |
7.4 | That person must produce such evidence of his entitlement as the Directors may properly require. |
7.5 | If the person elects to become the holder of the Share, he must give notice to the Company to that effect. For the purposes of these Articles, that notice shall be treated as though it were an executed instrument of transfer. |
7.6 | If the person elects to transfer the Share to another person then: |
(a) | if the Share is Fully Paid Up, the transferor must execute an instrument of transfer; and |
(b) | if the Share is nil or Partly Paid Up, the transferor and the transferee must execute an instrument of transfer. |
7.7 | All the Articles relating to the transfer of Shares shall apply to the notice or, as appropriate, the instrument of transfer. |
Indemnity
7.8 | A person registered as a Member by reason of the death or bankruptcy of another Member shall indemnify the Company and the Directors against any loss or damage suffered by the Company or the Directors as a result of that registration. |
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Rights of person entitled to a Share following death or bankruptcy
7.9 | A person becoming entitled to a Share by reason of the death or bankruptcy of a Member shall have the rights to which he would be entitled if he were registered as the holder of the Share. But, until he is registered as Member in respect of the Share, he shall not be entitled to attend or vote at any meeting of the Company or at any separate meeting of the holders of that class of Shares. |
8 | Alteration of capital |
Increasing, consolidating, converting, dividing and cancelling share capital
8.1 | To the fullest extent permitted by the Act, the Company may by Ordinary Resolution do any of the following and amend its Memorandum for that purpose: |
(a) | increase its share capital by new Shares of the amount fixed by that Ordinary Resolution and with the attached rights, priorities and privileges set out in that Ordinary Resolution; |
(b) | consolidate and divide all or any of its share capital into Shares of larger amount than its existing Shares; |
(c) | convert all or any of its Paid Up Shares into stock, and reconvert that stock into Paid Up Shares of any denomination; |
(d) | sub-divide its Shares or any of them into Shares of an amount smaller than that fixed by the Memorandum, so, however, that in the sub-division, the proportion between the amount paid and the amount, if any, unpaid on each reduced Share shall be the same as it was in case of the Share from which the reduced Share is derived; and |
(e) | cancel Shares which, at the date of the passing of that Ordinary Resolution, have not been taken or agreed to be taken by any person, and diminish the amount of its share capital by the amount of the Shares so cancelled or, in the case of Shares without nominal par value, diminish the number of Shares into which its capital is divided. |
Dealing with fractions resulting from consolidation of Shares
8.2 | Whenever, as a result of a consolidation of Shares, any Members would become entitled to fractions of a Share the Directors may on behalf of those Members deal with the fractions as it thinks fit, including (without limitation): |
(a) | either round up or down the fraction to the nearest whole number, such rounding to be determined by the Directors acting in their sole discretion; |
(b) | sell the Shares representing the fractions for the best price reasonably obtainable to any person (including, subject to the provisions of the Act, the Company); or |
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(c) | distribute the net proceeds in due proportion among those Members. |
8.3 | For the purposes of Article 8.2, the Directors may authorise some person to execute an instrument of transfer of the Shares to, in accordance with the directions of, the purchaser. The transferee shall not be bound to see to the application of the purchase money nor shall the transferee’s title to the Shares be affected by any irregularity in, or invalidity of, the proceedings in respect of the sale. |
Reducing share capital
8.4 | Subject to the Act and to any rights for the time being conferred on the Members holding a particular class of Shares, the Company may, by Special Resolution, reduce its share capital in any way. |
9 | Redemption and purchase of own Shares |
Power to issue redeemable Shares and to purchase own Shares
9.1 | Subject to the Act and to any rights for the time being conferred on the Members holding a particular class of Shares, the Company may by its Directors: |
(a) | issue Shares that are to be redeemed or liable to be redeemed, at the option of the Company or the Member holding those redeemable Shares, on the terms and in the manner its Directors determine before the issue of those Shares; |
(b) | with the consent by Special Resolution of the Members holding Shares of a particular class, vary the rights attaching to that class of Shares so as to provide that those Shares are to be redeemed or are liable to be redeemed at the option of the Company on the terms and in the manner which the Directors determine at the time of such variation; and |
(c) | purchase all or any of its own Shares of any class including any redeemable Shares on the terms and in the manner which the Directors determine at the time of such purchase. |
The Company may make a payment in respect of the redemption or purchase of its own Shares in any manner authorised by the Act, including out of any combination of the following: capital, its profits and the proceeds of a fresh issue of Shares.
Power to pay for redemption or purchase in cash or in specie
9.2 | When making a payment in respect of the redemption or purchase of Shares, the Directors may make the payment in cash or in specie (or partly in one and partly in the other) if so authorised by the terms of the allotment of those Shares or by the terms applying to those Shares in accordance with Article 9.1, or otherwise by agreement with the Member holding those Shares. |
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Effect of redemption or purchase of a Share
9.3 | Upon the date of redemption or purchase of a Share: |
(a) | the Member holding that Share shall cease to be entitled to any rights in respect of the Share other than the right to receive: |
(i) | the price for the Share; and |
(ii) | any dividend declared in respect of the Share prior to the date of redemption or purchase; |
(b) | the Member’s name shall be removed from the register of Members with respect to the Share; and |
(c) | the Share shall be cancelled or held as a Treasury Share, as the Directors may determine. |
9.4 | For the purpose of Article 9.3, the date of redemption or purchase is the date when the Member’s name is removed from the register of Members with respect to the Shares the subject of the redemption or purchase. |
10 | Meetings of Members |
Annual and extraordinary general meetings
10.1 | The Company may, but shall not (unless required by the applicable Designated Stock Exchange Rules) be obligated to, in each year hold a general meeting as an annual general meeting, which, if held, shall be convened by the Board, in accordance with these Articles. |
10.2 | All general meetings other than annual general meetings shall be called extraordinary general meetings. |
Power to call meetings
10.3 | The Directors may call a general meeting at any time. |
10.4 | If there are insufficient Directors to constitute a quorum and the remaining Directors are unable to agree on the appointment of additional Directors, the Directors must call a general meeting for the purpose of appointing additional Directors. |
10.5 | The Directors must also call a general meeting if requisitioned in the manner set out in the next two Articles. |
10.6 | The requisition must be in writing and given by one or more Members who together hold at least ten (10) per cent of the rights to vote at such general meeting. |
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10.7 | The requisition must also: |
(a) | specify the purpose of the meeting. |
(b) | be signed by or on behalf of each requisitioner (and for this purpose each joint holder shall be obliged to sign). The requisition may consist of several documents in like form signed by one or more of the requisitioners; and |
(c) | be delivered in accordance with the notice provisions. |
10.8 | Should the Directors fail to call a general meeting within 21 Clear Days’ from the date of receipt of a requisition, the requisitioners or any of them may call a general meeting within three months after the end of that period. |
10.9 | Without limitation to the foregoing, if there are insufficient Directors to constitute a quorum and the remaining Directors are unable to agree on the appointment of additional Directors, any one or more Members who together hold at least five (5) per cent of the rights to vote at a general meeting may call a general meeting for the purpose of considering the business specified in the notice of meeting which shall include as an item of business the appointment of additional Directors. |
10.10 | If the Members call a meeting under the above provisions, the Company shall reimburse their reasonable expenses. |
Content of notice
10.11 | Notice of a general meeting shall specify each of the following: |
(a) | the place, the date and the hour of the meeting; |
(b) | whether the meeting will be held virtually, at a physical place or both; |
(c) | if the meeting is to be held in any part at a physical place, the address of such place; |
(d) | if the meeting is to be held in two or more places, or in any part virtually, the Electronic Communication Facilities that will be used to facilitate the meeting, including the procedures to be followed by any Member or other participant of the meeting who wishes to utilise such Electronic Communication Facilities for the purposes of attending and participating in such meeting; |
(e) | subject to paragraph (f) and the requirements of (to the extent applicable) the Designated Stock Exchange Rules, the general nature of the business to be transacted; and |
(f) | if a resolution is proposed as a Special Resolution, the text of that resolution. |
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10.12 | In each notice there shall appear with reasonable prominence the following statements: |
(a) | that a Member who is entitled to attend and vote is entitled to appoint one or more proxies to attend and vote instead of that Member; and |
(b) | that a proxyholder need not be a Member. |
Period of notice
10.13 | At least five (5) Clear Days’ notice must be given to Members for any general meeting. |
10.14 | Subject to the Act, a meeting may be convened on shorter notice, subject to the Act with the consent of the Member or Members who, individually or collectively, hold at least ninety (90) per cent of the voting rights of all those who have a right to vote at that meeting. |
Persons entitled to receive notice
10.15 | Subject to the provisions of these Articles and to any restrictions imposed on any Shares, the notice shall be given to the following people: |
(a) | the Members; |
(b) | persons entitled to a Share in consequence of the death or bankruptcy of a Member; |
(c) | the Directors; and |
(d) | the Auditors (if appointed). |
10.16 | The Board may determine that the Members entitled to receive notice of, attend and vote at a meeting are those persons entered on the register of Members at the close of business on a day determined by the Board. |
Accidental omission to give notice or non-receipt of notice
10.17 | Proceedings at a meeting shall not be invalidated by the following: |
(a) | an accidental failure to give notice of the meeting to any person entitled to notice; or |
(b) | non-receipt of notice of the meeting by any person entitled to notice. |
10.18 | In addition, where a notice of meeting is published on a website proceedings at the meeting shall not be invalidated merely because it is accidentally published: |
(a) | in a different place on the website; or |
(b) | for part only of the period from the date of the notification until the conclusion of the meeting to which the notice relates. |
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11 | Proceedings at meetings of Members |
Quorum
11.1 | Save as provided in the following Article, no business shall be transacted at any meeting unless a quorum is present in person or by proxy at the meeting. A quorum is as follows: |
(a) | if the Company has only one Member: that Member; or |
(b) | if the Company has more than one Member, one or more Members holding Shares that represent not less than one-third of the outstanding Shares carrying the right to vote at such general meeting. |
Lack of quorum
11.2 | If a quorum is not present at the meeting within fifteen minutes of the time appointed for the meeting, or if at any time during the meeting it becomes inquorate, then the following provisions apply: |
(a) | If the meeting was requisitioned by Members, it shall be cancelled. |
(b) | In any other case, the meeting shall stand adjourned to the same time and place seven (7) days hence, or to such other time or place as is determined by the Directors. If a quorum is not present at the meeting within fifteen minutes of the time appointed for the adjourned meeting, then the Members present in person or by proxy at the meeting shall constitute a quorum. |
Chairman
11.3 | The chairman of a general meeting (including any Virtual Meeting) shall be the chairman of the Board or such other Director as the Directors may determine. Absent any such person being present at the meeting within fifteen minutes of the time appointed for the meeting, the Directors present shall elect one of their number to chair the meeting. The chairman of the meeting shall be entitled to attend and participate at any such general meeting by means of Electronic Communication Facilities, and to act as the chairman of such general meeting, in which event the chairman of the meeting shall be deemed to be present at the meeting. |
11.4 | If no Director is present within fifteen minutes of the time appointed for the meeting, or if no Director is willing to act as chairman, the Members present in person or by proxy and entitled to vote shall choose one of their number to chair the meeting. |
Right of a Director to attend and speak
11.5 | Even if a Director is not a Member, he shall be entitled to attend and speak at any general meeting and at any separate meeting of Members holding a particular class of Shares. |
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Accommodation of Members at Virtual Meeting
11.6 | A Member entitled to receive notice and attend a meeting will be deemed to be in attendance at such meeting despite their attendance being virtual if adequate facilities are available to ensure that the Member is able to: |
(a) | to participate in the business for which the meeting has been convened; and |
(b) | to hear all that happens at the meeting. |
Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Directors may determine that any general meeting may be held as a Virtual Meeting.
Security
11.7 | In addition to any measures which the Board may be required to take due to the location or venue of the meeting, the Board may make any arrangement and impose any restriction it considers appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances to ensure the security of a meeting including, without limitation, the searching of any person attending the meeting and the imposing of restrictions on the items of personal property that may be taken into the meeting place. The Board may refuse entry to, or eject from, a meeting a person who refuses to comply with any such arrangements or restrictions. |
Adjournment, postponement and cancellation
11.8 | A meeting may be: |
(a) | postponed or cancelled prior to the meeting at the discretion of the Directors by written notice provided to all persons entitled to attend the meeting, unless the meeting was requisitioned by Members or otherwise called by Members pursuant to Article 10; or |
(b) | adjourned, with or without an appointed date for resumption, at any time during the meeting at the discretion of the chairman with the consent of the Members constituting a quorum |
The chairman must adjourn the meeting if so directed by the Members constituting a quorum at the meeting. No business, however, can be transacted at an adjourned or postponed meeting other than business which might properly have been transacted at the original meeting.
11.9 | Should a meeting be adjourned for more than seven (7) Clear Days, whether because of a lack of quorum or otherwise, Members shall be given at least seven (7) Clear Days’ notice of the date, time and place of the adjourned meeting and the general nature of the business to be transacted. Otherwise it shall not be necessary to give any notice of the adjournment. |
Method of voting
11.10 | A resolution put to the vote of the meeting shall be decided on a poll. |
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Taking of a poll
11.11 | A poll shall be taken in such manner as the chairman directs. He may appoint scrutineers (who need not be Members) and fix a place and time for declaring the result of the poll. If, through the aid of technology, the meeting is held as a Virtual Meeting or in more than one place, the chairman may appoint scrutineers virtually and in more than one place; but if he considers that the poll cannot be effectively monitored at that meeting, the chairman shall adjourn the holding of the poll to a date, place and time when that can occur. |
Chairman’s casting vote
11.12 | In the case of an equality of votes, the Chairman of the meeting shall not be entitled to a second or casting vote. |
Written resolutions
11.13 | Without limitation to section 60(1) of the Act, Members may pass a Special Resolution in writing without holding a meeting if the following conditions are met: |
(a) | all Members entitled to vote on the resolution are given notice of the resolution as if the same were being proposed at a meeting of Members; |
(b) | all Members entitled so to vote; |
(i) | sign a document; or |
(ii) | sign several documents in the like form each signed by one or more of those Members; and |
(c) | the signed document or documents is or are delivered to the Company, including, if the Company so nominates, by delivery of an Electronic Record by Electronic means to the address specified for that purpose. |
Such written resolution shall be as effective as if it had been passed at a duly convened and held meeting of the Members entitled to vote.
11.14 | Members may pass an Ordinary Resolution in writing without holding a meeting if the following conditions are met: |
(a) | all Members entitled to vote on the resolution are: |
(i) | given notice of the resolution as if the same were being proposed at a meeting of Members; and |
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(ii) | notified in the same or an accompanying notice of the date by which the resolution must be passed if it is not to lapse, being a period of five (5) Clear Days beginning with the date that the notice is first given; |
(b) | the required majority of the Members entitled so to vote: |
(i) | sign a document; or |
(ii) | sign several documents in the like form each signed by one or more of those Members; and |
(c) | the signed document or documents is or are delivered to the Company, including, if the Company so nominates, by delivery of an Electronic Record by Electronic means to the address specified for that purpose. |
Such written resolution, which shall be as effective as if it had been passed at a meeting of the Members entitled to vote duly convened and held, is passed upon the later of these dates: (i) subject to the following Article, the date next immediately following the end of the period of five (5) Clear Days beginning with the date that notice of the resolution is first given and (ii) the date when the required majority have so signified their agreement to the resolution. However, the proposed written resolution lapses if it is not passed before the end of the period of fourteen (14) days beginning with the date that notice of it is first given.
11.15 | If all Members entitled to be given notice of the Ordinary Resolution consent, a written resolution may be passed as soon as the required majority have signified their agreement to the resolution, without any minimum period of time having first elapsed. Save that the consent of the majority may be incorporated in the written resolution, each consent shall be in writing or given by Electronic Record and shall otherwise be given to the Company in accordance with Article 28 (Notices) prior to the written resolution taking effect. |
11.16 | The Directors may determine the manner in which written resolutions shall be put to Members. In particular, they may provide, in the form of any written resolution, for each Member to indicate, out of the number of votes the Member would have been entitled to cast at a meeting to consider the resolution, how many votes he wishes to cast in favour of the resolution and how many against the resolution or to be treated as abstentions. The result of any such written resolution shall be determined on the same basis as on a poll. |
11.17 | If a written resolution is described as a Special Resolution or as an Ordinary Resolution, it has effect accordingly. |
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Sole-Member Company
11.18 | If the Company has only one Member, and the Member records in writing his decision on a question, that record shall constitute both the passing of a resolution and the minute of it. |
12 | Voting rights of Members |
Right to vote
12.1 | Unless their Shares carry no right to vote, or unless a call or other amount presently payable has not been paid, all Members are entitled to vote at a general meeting, and all Members holding Shares of a particular class of Shares are entitled to vote at a meeting of the holders of that class of Shares. |
12.2 | Members may vote in person or by proxy. |
12.3 | On a poll, a Member shall have one (1) vote for each Share he holds, unless any Share carries special voting rights. A fraction of a Share shall entitle its holder to an equivalent fraction of one (1) vote (or a fraction of such number of votes which such Share carries pursuant to its special voting rights). |
12.4 | No Member is bound to vote on his Shares or any of them; nor is he bound to vote each of his Shares in the same way. |
Rights of joint holders
12.5 | If Shares are held jointly, only one of the joint holders may vote. If more than one of the joint holders tenders a vote, the vote of the holder whose name in respect of those Shares appears first in the register of Members shall be accepted to the exclusion of the votes of the other joint holder. |
Representation of corporate Members
12.6 | Save where otherwise provided, a corporate Member must act by a duly authorised representative. |
12.7 | A corporate Member wishing to act by a duly authorised representative must identify that person to the Company by notice in writing. |
12.8 | The authorisation may be for any period of time, and must be delivered to the Company before the commencement of the meeting at which it is first used. |
12.9 | The Directors of the Company may require the production of any evidence which they consider necessary to determine the validity of the notice. |
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12.10 | Where a duly authorised representative is present at a meeting that Member is deemed to be present in person; and the acts of the duly authorised representative are personal acts of that Member. |
12.11 | A corporate Member may revoke the appointment of a duly authorised representative at any time by notice to the Company; but such revocation will not affect the validity of any acts carried out by the duly authorised representative before the Directors of the Company had actual notice of the revocation. |
Member with mental disorder
12.12 | A Member in respect of whom an order has been made by any court having jurisdiction (whether in the Cayman Islands or elsewhere) in matters concerning mental disorder may vote by that Member’s receiver, curator bonis or other person authorised in that behalf appointed by that court. |
12.13 | For the purpose of the preceding Article, evidence to the satisfaction of the Directors of the authority of the person claiming to exercise the right to vote must be received not less than 24 hours before holding the relevant meeting or the adjourned meeting in any manner specified for the delivery of forms of appointment of a proxy, whether in writing or by Electronic means. In default, the right to vote shall not be exercisable. |
Objections to admissibility of votes
12.14 | An objection to the validity of a person’s vote may only be raised at the meeting or at the adjourned meeting at which the vote is sought to be tendered. Any objection duly made shall be referred to the chairman whose decision shall be final and conclusive. |
Form of proxy
12.15 | An instrument appointing a proxy shall be in any common form or in any other form approved by the Directors. |
12.16 | The instrument must be in writing and signed in one of the following ways: |
(a) | by the Member; or |
(b) | by the Member’s authorised attorney; or |
(c) | if the Member is a corporation or other body corporate, under seal or signed by an authorised officer, secretary or attorney. |
If the Directors so resolve, the Company may accept an Electronic Record of that instrument delivered in the manner specified below and otherwise satisfying the Articles about authentication of Electronic Records.
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12.17 | The Directors may require the production of any evidence which they consider necessary to determine the validity of any appointment of a proxy. |
12.18 | A Member may revoke the appointment of a proxy at any time by notice to the Company duly signed in accordance with Article 12.16. |
12.19 | No revocation by a Member of the appointment of a proxy made in accordance with Article 12.18 will affect the validity of any acts carried out by the relevant proxy before the Directors of the Company had actual notice of the revocation. |
How and when proxy is to be delivered
12.20 | Subject to the following Articles, the Directors may, in the notice convening any meeting or adjourned meeting, or in an instrument of proxy sent out by the Company, specify the manner by which the instrument appointing a proxy shall be deposited and the place and the time (being not later than the time appointed for the commencement of the meeting or adjourned meeting to which the proxy relates) at which the instrument appointing a proxy shall be deposited. In the absence of any such direction from the Directors in the notice convening any meeting or adjourned meeting or in an instrument of proxy sent out by the Company, the form of appointment of a proxy and any authority under which it is signed (or a copy of the authority certified notarially or in any other way approved by the Directors) must be delivered so that it is received by the Company before the time for holding the meeting or adjourned meeting at which the person named in the form of appointment of proxy proposes to vote. They must be delivered in either of the following ways: |
(a) | In the case of an instrument in writing, it must be left at or sent by post: |
(i) | to the registered office of the Company; or |
(ii) | to such other place specified in the notice convening the meeting or in any form of appointment of proxy sent out by the Company in relation to the meeting. |
(b) | If, pursuant to the notice provisions, a notice may be given to the Company in an Electronic Record, an Electronic Record of an appointment of a proxy must be sent to the address specified pursuant to those provisions unless another address for that purpose is specified: |
(i) | in the notice convening the meeting; or |
(ii) | in any form of appointment of a proxy sent out by the Company in relation to the meeting; or |
(iii) | in any invitation to appoint a proxy issued by the Company in relation to the meeting. |
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(c) | Notwithstanding Article 12.20(a) and Article 12.20(b), the chairman of the Company may, in any event at his discretion, direct that an instrument of proxy shall be deemed to have been duly deposited. |
12.21 | If the form of appointment of proxy is not delivered on time, it is invalid. |
12.22 | When two or more valid but differing appointments of proxy are delivered or received in respect of the same Share for use at the same meeting and in respect of the same matter, the one which is last validly delivered or received (regardless of its date or of the date of its execution) shall be treated as replacing and revoking the other or others as regards that Share. lf the Company is unable to determine which appointment was last validly delivered or received, none of them shall be treated as valid in respect of that Share. |
12.23 | The Board may at the expense of the Company send forms of appointment of proxy to the Members by post (that is to say, pre-paying and posting a letter), or by Electronic communication or otherwise (with or without provision for their return by pre-paid post) for use at any general meeting or at any separate meeting of the holders of any class of Shares, either blank or nominating as proxy in the alternative any one or more of the Directors or any other person. lf for the purpose of any meeting invitations to appoint as proxy a person or one of a number of persons specified in the invitations are issued at the Company’s expense, they shall be issued to all (and not to some only) of the Members entitled to be sent notice of the meeting and to vote at it. The accidental omission to send such a form of appointment or to give such an invitation to, or the non-receipt of such form of appointment by, any Member entitled to attend and vote at a meeting shall not invalidate the proceedings at that meeting |
Voting by proxy
12.24 | A proxy shall have the same voting rights at a meeting or adjourned meeting as the Member would have had except to the extent that the instrument appointing him limits those rights. Notwithstanding the appointment of a proxy, a Member may attend and vote at a meeting or adjourned meeting. If a Member votes on any resolution a vote by his proxy on the same resolution, unless in respect of different Shares, shall be invalid. |
12.25 | The instrument appointing a proxy to vote at a meeting shall not confer any further right to speak at the meeting, except with the permission of the chairman of the meeting. |
13 | Number of Directors |
13.1 | There shall be a Board consisting of not less than one person provided however that the Company may by Ordinary Resolution increase or reduce the limits in the number of Directors. Unless fixed by Ordinary Resolution, the maximum number of Directors shall be unlimited. |
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14 | Appointment, disqualification and removal of Directors |
First Directors
14.1 | The first Directors shall be appointed in writing by the subscriber or subscribers to the Memorandum, or a majority of them. |
No age limit
14.2 | There is no age limit for Directors save that they must be at least eighteen years of age. |
Corporate Directors
14.3 | Unless prohibited by law, a body corporate may be a Director. If a body corporate is a Director, the Articles about representation of corporate Members at general meetings apply, mutatis mutandis, to the Articles about Directors’ meetings. |
No shareholding qualification
14.4 | Unless a shareholding qualification for Directors is fixed by Ordinary Resolution, no Director shall be required to own Shares as a condition of his appointment. |
Appointment of Directors
14.5 | A Director may be appointed by Ordinary Resolution or by the Directors. Any appointment may be to fill a vacancy or as an additional Director. |
14.6 | The remaining Director(s) may appoint a Director even though there is not a quorum of Directors. |
14.7 | No appointment can cause the number of Directors to exceed the maximum (if one is set); and any such appointment shall be invalid. |
14.8 | For so long as Shares are listed on a Designated Stock Exchange, the Directors shall include at least such number of Independent Directors as applicable law, rules or regulations or the Designated Stock Exchange Rules require as determined by the Board. |
Board’s power to appoint Directors
14.9 | Without prejudice to the Company’s power to appoint a person to be a Director pursuant to these Articles, the Board shall have power at any time to appoint any person who is willing to act as a Director, either to fill a vacancy or as an addition to the existing Board, subject to the total number of Directors not exceeding any maximum number fixed by or in accordance with these Articles. |
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Term of office
14.10 | An appointment of a Director may be on terms that the Director shall automatically retire from office (unless he has sooner vacated office) at the next or a subsequent annual general meeting or upon any specified event or after any specified period in a written agreement between the Company and the Director, if any; but no such term shall be implied in the absence of express provision. Each Director whose term of office expires shall be eligible for re-appointment at a meeting of the Members or re-appointment by the Board. |
Removal of Directors
14.11 | Subject to these Articles, a Director may be removed by Ordinary Resolution. |
Resignation of Directors
14.12 | A Director may at any time resign office by giving to the Company notice in writing or, if permitted pursuant to the notice provisions, in an Electronic Record delivered in either case in accordance with those provisions. |
14.13 | Unless the notice specifies a different date, the Director shall be deemed to have resigned on the date that the notice is delivered to the Company. |
Termination of the office of Director
14.14 | A Director may retire from office as a Director by giving notice in writing to that effect to the Company at the registered office, which notice shall be effective upon such date as may be specified in the notice, failing which upon delivery to the registered office. |
14.15 | Without prejudice to the provisions in these Articles for retirement (by rotation or otherwise), a Director’s office shall be terminated forthwith if: |
(a) | he is prohibited by the law of the Cayman Islands from acting as a Director; or |
(b) | he is made bankrupt or makes an arrangement or composition with his creditors generally; or |
(c) | he resigns his office by notice to the Company; or |
(d) | he only held office as a Director for a fixed term and such term expires; or |
(e) | in the opinion of a registered medical practitioner by whom he is being treated he becomes physically or mentally incapable of acting as a Director; or |
(f) | he is given notice by the majority of the other Directors (not being less than two in number) to vacate office (without prejudice to any claim for damages for breach of any agreement relating to the provision of the services of such Director); or |
(g) | he is made subject to any law relating to mental health or incompetence, whether by court order or otherwise; or |
(h) | without the consent of the other Directors, he is absent from meetings of Directors for a continuous period of six months. |
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15 | Alternate Directors |
Appointment and removal
15.1 | Any Director may appoint any other person, including another Director, to act in his place as an alternate Director. No appointment shall take effect until the Director has given notice of the appointment to the Board. |
15.2 | A Director may revoke his appointment of an alternate at any time. No revocation shall take effect until the Director has given notice of the revocation to the Board. |
15.3 | A notice of appointment or removal of an alternate Director shall be effective only if given to the Company by one or more of the following methods: |
(a) | by notice in writing in accordance with the notice provisions contained in these Articles; |
(b) | if the Company has a facsimile address for the time being, by sending by facsimile transmission to that facsimile address a facsimile copy or, otherwise, by sending by facsimile transmission to the facsimile address of the Company’s registered office a facsimile copy (in either case, the facsimile copy being deemed to be the notice unless Article 29.7 applies), in which event notice shall be taken to be given on the date of an error-free transmission report from the sender’s fax machine; |
(c) | if the Company has an email address for the time being, by emailing to that email address a scanned copy of the notice as a PDF attachment or, otherwise, by emailing to the email address provided by the Company’s registered office a scanned copy of the notice as a PDF attachment (in either case, the PDF version being deemed to be the notice unless Article 29.7 applies), in which event notice shall be taken to be given on the date of receipt by the Company or the Company’s registered office (as appropriate) in readable form; or |
(d) | if permitted pursuant to the notice provisions, in some other form of approved Electronic Record delivered in accordance with those provisions in writing. |
Notices
15.4 | All notices of meetings of Directors shall continue to be given to the appointing Director and not to the alternate. |
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Rights of alternate Director
15.5 | An alternate Director shall be entitled to attend and vote at any Board meeting or meeting of a committee of the Directors at which the appointing Director is not personally present, and generally to perform all the functions of the appointing Director in his absence. An alternate Director, however, is not entitled to receive any remuneration from the Company for services rendered as an alternate Director. |
Appointment ceases when the appointor ceases to be a Director
15.6 | An alternate Director shall cease to be an alternate Director if: |
(a) | the Director who appointed him ceases to be a Director; or |
(b) | the Director who appointed him revokes his appointment by notice delivered to the Board or to the registered office of the Company or in any other manner approved by the Board; or |
(c) | in any event happens in relation to him which, if he were a Director of the Company, would cause his office as Director to be vacated. |
Status of alternate Director
15.7 | An alternate Director shall carry out all functions of the Director who made the appointment. |
15.8 | Save where otherwise expressed, an alternate Director shall be treated as a Director under these Articles. |
15.9 | An alternate Director is not the agent of the Director appointing him. |
15.10 | An alternate Director is not entitled to any remuneration for acting as alternate Director. |
Status of the Director making the appointment
15.11 | A Director who has appointed an alternate is not thereby relieved from the duties which he owes the Company. |
16 | Powers of Directors |
Powers of Directors
16.1 | Subject to the provisions of the Act, the Memorandum and these Articles, the business of the Company shall be managed by the Directors who may for that purpose exercise all the powers of the Company. |
16.2 | No prior act of the Directors shall be invalidated by any subsequent alteration of the Memorandum or these Articles. However, to the extent allowed by the Act, Members may, by Special Resolution, validate any prior or future act of the Directors which would otherwise be in breach of their duties. |
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Directors below the minimum number
16.3 | lf the number of Directors is less than the minimum prescribed in accordance with these Articles, the remaining Director or Directors shall act only for the purposes of appointing an additional Director or Directors to make up such minimum or of convening a general meeting of the Company for the purpose of making such appointment. lf there are no Director or Directors able or willing to act, any two Members may summon a general meeting for the purpose of appointing Directors. Any additional Director so appointed shall hold office (subject to these Articles) only until the dissolution of the annual general meeting next following such appointment unless he is re-elected during such meeting. |
Appointments to office
16.4 | The Directors may appoint a Director: |
(a) | as chairman of the Board; |
(b) | as managing Director; |
(c) | to any other executive office, |
for such period, and on such terms, including as to remuneration as they think fit.
16.5 | The appointee must consent in writing to holding that office. |
16.6 | Where a chairman is appointed he shall, unless unable to do so, preside at every meeting of Directors. |
16.7 | If there is no chairman, or if the chairman is unable to preside at a meeting, that meeting may select its own chairman; or the Directors may nominate one of their number to act in place of the chairman should he ever not be available. |
16.8 | Subject to the provisions of the Act, the Directors may also appoint and remove any person, who need not be a Director: |
(a) | as Secretary; and |
(b) | to any office that may be required |
for such period and on such terms, including as to remuneration, as they think fit. In the case of an Officer, that Officer may be given any title the Directors decide.
16.9 | The Secretary or Officer must consent in writing to holding that office. |
16.10 | A Director, Secretary or other Officer of the Company may not the hold the office, or perform the services, of auditor. |
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Provisions for employees
16.11 | The Board may make provision for the benefit of any persons employed or formerly employed by the Company or any of its subsidiary undertakings (or any member of his family or any person who is dependent on him) in connection with the cessation or the transfer to any person of the whole or part of the undertaking of the Company or any of its subsidiary undertakings. |
Exercise of voting rights
16.12 | The Board may exercise the voting power conferred by the shares in any body corporate held or owned by the Company in such manner in all respects as it thinks fit (including, without limitation, the exercise of that power in favour of any resolution appointing any Director as a Director of such body corporate, or voting or providing for the payment of remuneration to the Directors of such body corporate). |
Remuneration
16.13 | Every Director may be remunerated by the Company for the services he provides for the benefit of the Company, whether as Director, employee or otherwise, and shall be entitled to be paid for the expenses incurred in the Company’s business including attendance at Directors’ meetings. |
16.14 | Until otherwise determined by the Company by Ordinary Resolution, the Directors (other than alternate Directors) shall be entitled to such remuneration by way of fees for their services in the office of Director as the Directors may determine. |
16.15 | Remuneration may take any form and may include arrangements to pay pensions, health insurance, death or sickness benefits, whether to the Director or to any other person connected to or related to him. |
16.16 | Unless his fellow Directors determine otherwise, a Director is not accountable to the Company for remuneration or other benefits received from any other company which is in the same group as the Company or which has common shareholdings. |
Disclosure of information
16.17 | Subject to compliance with applicable laws, including the applicable federal securities laws of the United States, the Directors may release or disclose to a third party any information regarding the affairs of the Company, including any information contained in the register of Members relating to a Member, (and they may authorise any Director, Officer or other authorised agent of the Company to release or disclose to a third party any such information in his possession) if: |
(a) | the Company or that person, as the case may be, is lawfully required to do so under the laws of any jurisdiction to which the Company is subject; or |
(b) | such disclosure is in compliance with the Designated Stock Exchange Rules; or |
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(c) | such disclosure is in accordance with any contract entered into by the Company; or |
(d) | the Directors are of the opinion such disclosure would assist or facilitate the Company’s operations. |
17 | Delegation of powers |
Power to delegate any of the Directors’ powers to a committee
17.1 | The Directors may delegate any of their powers to any committee consisting of one or more persons who need not be Members. Persons on the committee may include non-Directors so long as the majority of those persons are Directors. Any such committee shall be made up of such number of Independent Directors as required from time to time by the Designated Stock Exchange Rules or otherwise required by applicable law. |
17.2 | The delegation may be collateral with, or to the exclusion of, the Directors’ own powers. |
17.3 | The delegation may be on such terms as the Directors think fit, including provision for the committee itself to delegate to a sub-committee; save that any delegation must be capable of being revoked or altered by the Directors at will. |
17.4 | Unless otherwise permitted by the Directors, a committee must follow the procedures prescribed for the taking of decisions by Directors. |
17.5 | The Board shall establish an audit committee, a compensation committee and a nominating and corporate governance committee if so required by the applicable Designated Stock Exchange Rules. Each of these committees shall be empowered to do all things necessary to exercise the rights of such committee set forth in these Articles. Each of the audit committee, compensation committee and nominating and corporate governance committee (if so established) shall be made up of such number of Independent Directors as required from time to time by the Designated Stock Exchange Rules or otherwise required by applicable law, subject to any exemptions permitted under the Designated Stock Exchange Rules and other applicable laws. |
Local boards
17.6 | The Board may establish any local or divisional board or agency for managing any of the affairs of the Company whether in the Cayman Islands or elsewhere and may appoint any persons to be members of a local or divisional Board, or to be managers or agents, and may fix their remuneration. |
17.7 | The Board may delegate to any local or divisional board, manager or agent any of its powers and authorities (with power to sub-delegate) and may authorise the members of any local or divisional board or any of them to fill any vacancies and to act notwithstanding vacancies. |
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17.8 | Any appointment or delegation under this Article 17.8 may be made on such terms and subject to such conditions as the Board thinks fit and the Board may remove any person so appointed, and may revoke or vary any delegation. |
Power to appoint an agent of the Company
17.9 | The Directors may appoint any person, either generally or in respect of any specific matter, to be the agent of the Company with or without authority for that person to delegate all or any of that person’s powers. The Directors may make that appointment: |
(a) | by causing the Company to enter into a power of attorney or agreement; or |
(b) | in any other manner they determine. |
Power to appoint an attorney or authorised signatory of the Company
17.10 | The Directors may appoint any person, whether nominated directly or indirectly by the Directors, to be the attorney or the authorised signatory of the Company. The appointment may be: |
(a) | for any purpose; |
(b) | with the powers, authorities and discretions; |
(c) | for the period; and |
(d) | subject to such conditions |
as they think fit. The powers, authorities and discretions, however, must not exceed those vested in, or exercisable, by the Directors under these Articles. The Directors may do so by power of attorney or any other manner they think fit.
17.11 | Any power of attorney or other appointment may contain such provision for the protection and convenience for persons dealing with the attorney or authorised signatory as the Directors think fit. Any power of attorney or other appointment may also authorise the attorney or authorised signatory to delegate all or any of the powers, authorities and discretions vested in that person. |
17.12 | The Board may remove any person appointed under Article 17.10 and may revoke or vary the delegation. |
Borrowing Powers
17.13 | The Directors may exercise all the powers of the Company to borrow money and to mortgage or charge its undertaking, property and assets both present and future and uncalled capital, or any part thereof, and to issue debentures and other securities, whether outright or as collateral security for any debt, liability or obligation of the Company or its parent undertaking (if any) or any subsidiary undertaking of the Company or of any third party. |
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Corporate Governance
17.14 | The Board may, from time to time, and except as required by applicable law or the Designated Stock Exchange Rules, adopt, institute, amend, modify or revoke the corporate governance policies or initiatives of the Company, which shall be intended to set forth the guiding principles and policies of the Company and the Board on various corporate governance related matters as the Board shall determine by resolution from time to time. |
18 | Meetings of Directors |
Regulation of Directors’ meetings
18.1 | Subject to the provisions of these Articles, the Directors may regulate their proceedings as they think fit. |
Calling meetings
18.2 | Any Director may call a meeting of Directors at any time. The Secretary must call a meeting of the Directors if requested to do so by a Director. |
Notice of meetings
18.3 | Notice of a Board meeting may be given to a Director personally or by word of mouth or given in writing or by Electronic communications at such address as he may from time to time specify for this purpose (or, if he does not specify an address, at his last known address). A Director may waive his right to receive notice of any meeting either prospectively or retrospectively. |
Use of technology
18.4 | A Director may participate in a meeting of Directors through the medium of conference telephone, video or any other form of communications equipment providing all persons participating in the meeting are able to hear and speak to each other throughout the meeting. |
18.5 | A Director participating in this way is deemed to be present in person at the meeting. |
Quorum
18.6 | The quorum for the transaction of business at a meeting of Directors shall be two (2) unless the Directors fix some other number. |
Chairman or deputy to preside
18.7 | The Board may appoint a chairman and one or more deputy chairman or chairmen and may at any time revoke any such appointment. |
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18.8 | The chairman, or failing him any deputy chairman (the longest in office taking precedence if more than one is present), shall preside at all Board meetings. If no chairman or deputy chairman has been appointed, or if he is not present within five minutes after the time fixed for holding the meeting, or is unwilling to act as chairman of the meeting, the Directors present shall choose one of their number to act as chairman of the meeting. |
Voting
18.9 | A question which arises at a Board meeting shall be decided by a majority of votes. If votes are equal the chairman may, if he wishes, exercise a casting vote. |
Recording of dissent
18.10 | A Director present at a meeting of Directors shall be presumed to have assented to any action taken at that meeting unless: |
(a) | his dissent is entered in the minutes of the meeting; or |
(b) | he has filed with the meeting before it is concluded signed dissent from that action; or |
(c) | he has forwarded to the Company as soon as practical following the conclusion of that meeting signed dissent. |
A Director who votes in favour of an action is not entitled to record his dissent to it.
Written resolutions
18.11 | The Directors may pass a resolution in writing without holding a meeting if all Directors sign a document or sign several documents in the like form each signed by one or more of those Directors. |
18.12 | A written resolution signed by a validly appointed alternate Director need not also be signed by the appointing Director. |
18.13 | A written resolution signed personally by the appointing Director need not also be signed by his alternate. |
18.14 | A resolution in writing passed pursuant to Article 18.11, Article 18.12 and/or Article 18.13 shall be as effective as if it had been passed at a meeting of the Directors duly convened and held; and it shall be treated as having been passed on the day and at the time that the last Director signs (and for the avoidance of doubt, such day may or may not be a Business Day). |
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Validity of acts of Directors in spite of formal defect
18.15 | All acts done by a meeting of the Board, or of a committee of the Board, or by any person acting as a Director or an alternate Director, shall, notwithstanding that it is afterwards discovered that there was some defect in the appointment of any Director or alternate Director or member of the committee, or that any of them were disqualified or had vacated office or were not entitled to vote, be as valid as if every such person had been duly appointed and qualified and had continued to be a Director or alternate Director and had been entitled to vote. |
19 | Permissible Directors’ interests and disclosure |
19.1 | A Director who is in any way, whether directly or indirectly, interested in a contract or transaction or proposed contract or transaction with the Company shall declare the nature of his interest at a meeting of the Directors. A general notice given to the Directors by any Director to the effect that he is a member of any specified company or firm and is to be regarded as interested in any contract or transaction which may thereafter be made with that company or firm shall be deemed a sufficient declaration of interest in regard to any contract so made or transaction so consummated. Subject to the Designated Stock Exchange Rules and disqualification by the chairman of the relevant Board meeting, a Director may vote in respect of any contract or transaction or proposed contract or transaction notwithstanding that he may be interested therein provided the Director discloses to his fellow directors the nature and extent of any material interests in respect of any contract or transaction or proposed contract or transaction and if he does so his vote shall be counted and he may be counted in the quorum at any meeting of the Directors at which any such contract or transaction or proposed contract or transaction shall come before the meeting for consideration. |
20 | Minutes |
20.1 | The Company shall cause minutes to be made in books of: |
(a) | all appointments of Officers and committees made by the Board and of any such Officer’s remuneration; and |
(b) | the names of Directors present at every meeting of the Directors, a committee of the Board, the Company or the holders of any class of shares or debentures, and all orders, resolutions and proceedings of such meetings. |
20.2 | Any such minutes, if purporting to be signed by the chairman of the meeting at which the proceedings were held or by the chairman of the next succeeding meeting or the Secretary, shall be prima facie evidence of the matters stated in them. |
21 | Accounts and audit |
21.1 | The Directors must ensure that proper accounting and other records are kept, and that accounts and associated reports are distributed in accordance with the requirements of the Act. |
21.2 | The books of account shall be kept at the registered office of the Company and shall always be open to inspection by the Directors. No Member (other than a Director) shall have any right of inspecting any account or book or document of the Company except as conferred by the Act or as authorised by the Directors or by Ordinary Resolution. |
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21.3 | Unless the Directors otherwise prescribe, the financial year of the Company shall end on 31 March in each year and begin on 1 April in each year. |
Auditors
21.4 | Subject to applicable Designated Stock Exchange Rules, the Directors may appoint or remove an Auditor of the Company who shall hold office on such terms as the Directors determine. |
21.5 | At any general meeting convened and held at any time in accordance with these Articles, the Members may, by Ordinary Resolution, remove the Auditor before the expiration of his term of office. If they do so, the Members shall, by Ordinary Resolution, at that meeting appoint another Auditor in his stead for the remainder of his term. |
21.6 | The Auditors shall examine such books, accounts and vouchers; as may be necessary for the performance of their duties. |
21.7 | The Auditors shall, if so requested by the Directors, make a report on the accounts of the Company during their tenure of office at the next annual general meeting following their appointment, and at any time during their term of office, upon request of the Directors or any general meeting of the Company. |
22 | Record dates |
22.1 | Except to the extent of any conflicting rights attached to Shares, the resolution declaring a dividend on Shares of any class, whether it be an Ordinary Resolution of the Members or a Director’s resolution, may specify that the dividend is payable or distributable to the persons registered as the holders of those Shares at the close of business on a particular date, notwithstanding that the date may be a date prior to that on which the resolution is passed. |
22.2 | If the resolution does so specify, the dividend shall be payable or distributable to the persons registered as the holders of those Shares at the close of business on the specified date in accordance with their respective holdings so registered, but without prejudice to the rights inter se in respect of the dividend of transferors and transferees of any of those Shares. |
22.3 | The provisions of this Article apply, mutatis mutandis, to bonuses, capitalisation issues, distributions of realised capital profits or offers or grants made by the Company to the Members. |
23 | Dividends |
Source of dividends
23.1 | Dividends may be declared and paid out of any funds of the Company lawfully available for distribution. |
23.2 | Subject to the requirements of the Act regarding the application of a company’s Share premium account and with the sanction of an Ordinary Resolution, dividends may also be declared and paid out of any share premium account. |
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Declaration of dividends by Members
23.3 | Subject to the provisions of the Act, the Company may by Ordinary Resolution declare dividends in accordance with the respective rights of the Members but no dividend shall exceed the amount recommended by the Directors. |
Payment of interim dividends and declaration of final dividends by Directors
23.4 | The Directors may declare and pay interim dividends or recommend final dividends in accordance with the respective rights of the Members if it appears to them that they are justified by the financial position of the Company and that such dividends may lawfully be paid. |
23.5 | Subject to the provisions of the Act, in relation to the distinction between interim dividends and final dividends, the following applies: |
(a) | Upon determination to pay a dividend or dividends described as interim by the Directors in the dividend resolution, no debt shall be created by the declaration until such time as payment is made. |
(b) | Upon declaration of a dividend or dividends described as final by the Directors in the dividend resolution, a debt shall be created immediately following the declaration, the due date to be the date the dividend is stated to be payable in the resolution. |
If the resolution fails to specify whether a dividend is final or interim, it shall be assumed to be interim.
23.6 | In relation to Shares carrying differing rights to dividends or rights to dividends at a fixed rate, the following applies: |
(a) | If the share capital is divided into different classes, the Directors may pay dividends on Shares which confer deferred or non-preferred rights with regard to dividends as well as on Shares which confer preferential rights with regard to dividends but no dividend shall be paid on Shares carrying deferred or non-preferred rights if, at the time of payment, any preferential dividend is in arrears. |
(b) | The Directors may also pay, at intervals settled by them, any dividend payable at a fixed rate if it appears to them that there are sufficient funds of the Company lawfully available for distribution to justify the payment. |
(c) | If the Directors act in good faith, they shall not incur any liability to the Members holding Shares conferring preferred rights for any loss those Members may suffer by the lawful payment of the dividend on any Shares having deferred or non-preferred rights. |
Apportionment of dividends
23.7 | Except as otherwise provided by the rights attached to Shares all dividends shall be declared and paid according to the amounts Paid Up on the Shares on which the dividend is paid. All dividends shall be apportioned and paid proportionately to the amount Paid Up on the Shares during the time or part of the time in respect of which the dividend is paid. But if a Share is issued on terms providing that it shall rank for dividend as from a particular date, that Share shall rank for dividend accordingly. |
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Right of set off
23.8 | The Directors may deduct from a dividend or any other amount payable to a person in respect of a Share any amount due by that person to the Company on a call or otherwise in relation to a Share. |
Power to pay other than in cash
23.9 | If the Directors so determine, any resolution declaring a dividend may direct that it shall be satisfied wholly or partly by the distribution of assets. If a difficulty arises in relation to the distribution, the Directors may settle that difficulty in any way they consider appropriate. For example, they may do any one or more of the following: |
(a) | issue fractional Shares; |
(b) | fix the value of assets for distribution and make cash payments to some Members on the footing of the value so fixed in order to adjust the rights of Members; and |
(c) | vest some assets in trustees. |
How payments may be made
23.10 | A dividend or other monies payable on or in respect of a Share may be paid in any of the following ways: |
(a) | if the Member holding that Share or other person entitled to that Share nominates a bank account for that purpose - by wire transfer to that bank account; or |
(b) | by cheque or warrant sent by post to the registered address of the Member holding that Share or other person entitled to that Share. |
23.11 | For the purposes of Article 23.10(a), the nomination may be in writing or in an Electronic Record and the bank account nominated may be the bank account of another person. For the purposes of Article 23.10(b), subject to any applicable law or regulation, the cheque or warrant shall be made to the order of the Member holding that Share or other person entitled to the Share or to his nominee, whether nominated in writing or in an Electronic Record, and payment of the cheque or warrant shall be a good discharge to the Company. |
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23.12 | If two or more persons are registered as the holders of the Share or are jointly entitled to it by reason of the death or bankruptcy of the registered holder (Joint Holders), a dividend (or other amount) payable on or in respect of that Share may be paid as follows: |
(a) | to the registered address of the Joint Holder of the Share who is named first on the register of Members or to the registered address of the deceased or bankrupt holder, as the case may be; or |
(b) | to the address or bank account of another person nominated by the Joint Holders, whether that nomination is in writing or in an Electronic Record. |
23.13 | Any Joint Holder of a Share may give a valid receipt for a dividend (or other amount) payable in respect of that Share. |
Dividends or other monies not to bear interest in absence of special rights
23.14 | Unless provided for by the rights attached to a Share, no dividend or other monies payable by the Company in respect of a Share shall bear interest. |
Dividends unable to be paid or unclaimed
23.15 | If a dividend cannot be paid to a Member or remains unclaimed within six weeks after it was declared or both, the Directors may pay it into a separate account in the Company’s name. If a dividend is paid into a separate account, the Company shall not be constituted trustee in respect of that account and the dividend shall remain a debt due to the Member. |
23.16 | A dividend that remains unclaimed for a period of six years after it became due for payment shall be forfeited to, and shall cease to remain owing by, the Company. |
24 | Capitalisation of profits |
Capitalisation of profits or of any share premium account or capital redemption reserve;
24.1 | The Directors may resolve to capitalise: |
(a) | any part of the Company’s profits not required for paying any preferential dividend (whether or not those profits are available for distribution); or |
(b) | any sum standing to the credit of the Company’s share premium account or capital redemption reserve, if any. |
24.2 | The amount resolved to be capitalised must be appropriated to the Members who would have been entitled to it had it been distributed by way of dividend and in the same proportions. The benefit to each Member so entitled must be given in either or both of the following ways:: |
(a) | by paying up the amounts unpaid on that Member’s Shares; |
(b) | by issuing Fully Paid Up Shares, debentures or other securities of the Company to that Member or as that Member directs. The Directors may resolve that any Shares issued to the Member in respect of Partly Paid Up Shares (Original Shares) rank for dividend only to the extent that the Original Shares rank for dividend while those Original Shares remain Partly Paid Up. |
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Applying an amount for the benefit of Members
24.3 | The amount capitalised must be applied to the benefit of Members in the proportions to which the Members would have been entitled to dividends if the amount capitalised had been distributed as a dividend. |
24.4 | Subject to the Act, if a fraction of a Share, a debenture or other security is allocated to a Member, the Directors may issue a fractional certificate to that Member or pay him the cash equivalent of the fraction. |
25 | Share Premium Account |
Directors to maintain share premium account
25.1 | The Directors shall establish a share premium account in accordance with the Act. They shall carry to the credit of that account from time to time an amount equal to the amount or value of the premium paid on the issue of any Share or capital contributed or such other amounts required by the Act. |
Debits to share premium account
25.2 | The following amounts shall be debited to any share premium account: |
(a) | on the redemption or purchase of a Share, the difference between the nominal value of that Share and the redemption or purchase price; and |
(b) | any other amount paid out of a share premium account as permitted by the Act. |
25.3 | Notwithstanding the preceding Article, on the redemption or purchase of a Share, the Directors may pay the difference between the nominal value of that Share and the redemption purchase price out of the profits of the Company or, as permitted by the Act, out of capital. |
26 | Seal |
Company seal
26.1 | The Company may have a seal if the Directors so determine. |
Duplicate seal
26.2 | Subject to the provisions of the Act, the Company may also have a duplicate seal or seals for use in any place or places outside the Cayman Islands. Each duplicate seal shall be a facsimile of the original seal of the Company. However, if the Directors so determine, a duplicate seal shall have added on its face the name of the place where it is to be used. |
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When and how seal is to be used
26.3 | A seal may only be used by the authority of the Directors. Unless the Directors otherwise determine, a document to which a seal is affixed must be signed in one of the following ways: |
(a) | by a Director (or his alternate) and the Secretary; or |
(b) | by a single Director (or his alternate). |
If no seal is adopted or used
26.4 | If the Directors do not adopt a seal, or a seal is not used, a document may be executed in the following manner: |
(a) | by a Director (or his alternate) and the Secretary; or |
(b) | by a single Director (or his alternate); or |
(c) | in any other manner permitted by the Act. |
Power to allow non-manual signatures and facsimile printing of seal
26.5 | The Directors may determine that either or both of the following applies: |
(a) | that the seal or a duplicate seal need not be affixed manually but may be affixed by some other method or system of reproduction; |
(b) | that a signature required by these Articles need not be manual but may be a mechanical or Electronic Signature. |
Validity of execution
26.6 | If a document is duly executed and delivered by or on behalf of the Company, it shall not be regarded as invalid merely because, at the date of the delivery, the Secretary, or the Director, or other Officer or person who signed the document or affixed the seal for and on behalf of the Company ceased to be the Secretary or hold that office and authority on behalf of the Company. |
27 | Indemnity |
27.1 | To the extent permitted by law, the Company shall indemnify each existing or former Director (including alternate Director), Secretary and other Officer of the Company (including an investment adviser or an administrator or liquidator) and their personal representatives against: |
(a) | all actions, proceedings, costs, charges, expenses, losses, damages or liabilities incurred or sustained by the existing or former Director (including alternate Director), Secretary or Officer in or about the conduct of the Company’s business or affairs or in the execution or discharge of the existing or former Director’s (including alternate Director’s), Secretary’s or Officer’s duties, powers, authorities or discretions; and |
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(b) | without limitation to paragraph (a), all costs, expenses, losses or liabilities incurred by the existing or former Director (including alternate Director), Secretary or Officer in defending (whether successfully or otherwise) any civil, criminal, administrative or investigative proceedings (whether threatened, pending or completed) concerning the Company or its affairs in any court or tribunal, whether in the Cayman Islands or elsewhere. |
No such existing or former Director (including alternate Director), Secretary or Officer, however, shall be indemnified in respect of any matter arising out of his own dishonesty, fraud, wilful default and wilful neglect.
27.2 | To the extent permitted by Act, the Company may make a payment, or agree to make a payment, whether by way of advance, loan or otherwise, for any legal costs incurred by an existing or former Director (including alternate Director), Secretary or Officer of the Company in respect of any matter identified in Article 27.1 on condition that the Director (including alternate Director), Secretary or Officer must repay the amount paid by the Company to the extent that it is ultimately found not liable to indemnify the Director (including alternate Director), Secretary or that Officer for those legal costs. |
Release
27.3 | To the extent permitted by Act, the Company may by Special Resolution release any existing or former Director (including alternate Director), Secretary or other Officer of the Company from liability for any loss or damage or right to compensation which may arise out of or in connection with the execution or discharge of the duties, powers, authorities or discretions of his office; but there may be no release from liability arising out of or in connection with that person’s own dishonesty, fraud, wilful default and wilful neglect. |
Insurance
27.4 | To the extent permitted by Act, the Company may pay, or agree to pay, a premium in respect of a contract insuring each of the following persons against risks determined by the Directors, other than liability arising out of that person’s own dishonesty, fraud, wilful default and wilful neglect: |
(a) | an existing or former Director (including alternate Director), Secretary or Officer or auditor of: |
(i) | the Company; |
(ii) | a company which is or was a subsidiary of the Company; |
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(iii) | a company in which the Company has or had an interest (whether direct or indirect); and |
(b) | a trustee of an employee or retirement benefits scheme or other trust in which any of the persons referred to in paragraph (a) is or was interested. |
28 | Notices |
Form of notices
28.1 | Save where these Articles provide otherwise, and subject to the Designated Stock Exchange Rules, any notice to be given to or by any person pursuant to these Articles shall be: |
(a) | in writing signed by or on behalf of the giver in the manner set out below for written notices; or |
(b) | subject to the next Article, in an Electronic Record signed by or on behalf of the giver by Electronic Signature and authenticated in accordance with Articles about authentication of Electronic Records; or |
(c) | where these Articles expressly permit, by the Company by means of a website. |
Electronic communications
28.2 | A notice may only be given to the Company in an Electronic Record if: |
(a) | the Directors so resolve or otherwise accept the notice; or |
(b) | any Director or Officer provides the giver of the notice an electronic address to which the notice may be sent and a notice is sent to that address within a reasonable period of time. |
28.3 | A notice may not be given by Electronic Record to a person other than the Company unless the recipient has provided the giver of the notice with an Electronic address to which notice may be sent. |
28.4 | Subject to the Act, the Designated Stock Exchange Rules and to any other rules which the Company is bound to follow, the Company may also send any notice or other document pursuant to these Articles to a Member by publishing that notice or other document on a website where: |
(a) | the Company and the Member have agreed to his having access to the notice or document on a website (instead of it being sent to him); |
(b) | the notice or document is one to which that agreement applies; |
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(c) | the Member is notified (in accordance with any requirements laid down by the Act and, in a manner for the time being agreed between him and the Company for the purpose) of: |
(i) | the publication of the notice or document on a website; |
(ii) | the address of that website; and |
(iii) | the place on that website where the notice or document may be accessed, and how it may be accessed; and |
(d) | the notice or document is published on that website throughout the publication period, provided that, if the notice or document is published on that website for a part, but not all of, the publication period, the notice or document shall be treated as being published throughout that period if the failure to publish that notice of document throughout that period is wholly attributable to circumstances which it would not be reasonable to have expected the Company to prevent or avoid. For the purposes of this Article 28.4 “publication period” means a period of not less than twenty-one days, beginning on the day on which the notification referred to in Article 28.4(c) is deemed sent. |
Persons entitled to notices
28.5 | Any notice or other document to be given to a Member may be given by reference to the register of Members as it stands at any time within the period of twenty-one days before the day that the notice is given or (where and as applicable) within any other period permitted by, or in accordance with the requirements of, (to the extent applicable) the Designated Stock Exchange Rules and/or the Designated Stock Exchanges. No change in the register of Members after that time shall invalidate the giving of such notice or document or require the Company to give such item to any other person. |
Persons authorised to give notices
28.6 | A notice by either the Company or a Member pursuant to these Articles may be given on behalf of the Company or a Member by a Director or company secretary of the Company or a Member. |
Delivery of written notices
28.7 | Save where these Articles provide otherwise, a notice in writing may be given personally to the recipient, or left at (as appropriate) the Member’s or Director’s registered address or the Company’s registered office, or posted to that registered address or registered office. |
Joint holders
28.8 | Where Members are joint holders of a Share, all notices shall be given to the Member whose name first appears in the register of Members. |
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Signatures
28.9 | A written notice shall be signed when it is autographed by or on behalf of the giver, or is marked in such a way as to indicate its execution or adoption by the giver. |
28.10 | An Electronic Record may be signed by an Electronic Signature. |
Evidence of transmission
28.11 | A notice given by Electronic Record shall be deemed sent if an Electronic Record is kept demonstrating the time, date and content of the transmission, and if no notification of failure to transmit is received by the giver. |
28.12 | A notice given in writing shall be deemed sent if the giver can provide proof that the envelope containing the notice was properly addressed, pre-paid and posted, or that the written notice was otherwise properly transmitted to the recipient. |
28.13 | A Member present, either in person or by proxy, at any meeting of the Company or of the holders of any class of Shares shall be deemed to have received due notice of the meeting and, where requisite, of the purposes for which it was called. |
Giving notice to a deceased or bankrupt Member
28.14 | A notice may be given by the Company to the persons entitled to a Share in consequence of the death or bankruptcy of a Member by sending or delivering it, in any manner authorised by these Articles for the giving of notice to a Member, addressed to them by name, or by the title of representatives of the deceased, or trustee of the bankrupt or by any like description, at the address, if any, supplied for that purpose by the persons claiming to be so entitled. |
28.15 | Until such an address has been supplied, a notice may be given in any manner in which it might have been given if the death or bankruptcy had not occurred. |
Date of giving notices
28.16 | A notice is given on the date identified in the following table |
Method for giving notices | When taken to be given | |
(A) Personally | At the time and date of delivery | |
(B) By leaving it at the Member’s registered address | At the time and date it was left | |
(C) By posting it by prepaid post to the street or postal address of that recipient | 48 hours after the date it was posted | |
(D) By Electronic Record (other than publication on a website), to recipient’s Electronic address | 48 hours after the date it was sent | |
(E) By publication on a website | 24 hours after the date on which the Member is deemed to have been notified of the publication of the notice or document on the website |
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Saving provision
28.17 | None of the preceding notice provisions shall derogate from the Articles about the delivery of written resolutions of Directors and written resolutions of Members. |
29 | Authentication of Electronic Records |
Application of Articles
29.1 | Without limitation to any other provision of these Articles, any notice, written resolution or other document under these Articles that is sent by Electronic means by a Member, or by the Secretary, or by a Director or other Officer of the Company, shall be deemed to be authentic if either Article 29.2 or Article 29.4 applies. |
Authentication of documents sent by Members by Electronic means
29.2 | An Electronic Record of a notice, written resolution or other document sent by Electronic means by or on behalf of one or more Members shall be deemed to be authentic if the following conditions are satisfied: |
(a) | the Member or each Member, as the case may be, signed the original document, and for this purpose Original Document includes several documents in like form signed by one or more of those Members; and |
(b) | the Electronic Record of the Original Document was sent by Electronic means by, or at the direction of, that Member to an address specified in accordance with these Articles for the purpose for which it was sent; and |
(c) | Article 29.7 does not apply. |
29.3 | For example, where a sole Member signs a resolution and sends the Electronic Record of the original resolution, or causes it to be sent, by facsimile transmission to the address in these Articles specified for that purpose, the facsimile copy shall be deemed to be the written resolution of that Member unless Article 28.7 applies. |
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Authentication of document sent by the Secretary or Officers of the Company by Electronic means
29.4 | An Electronic Record of a notice, written resolution or other document sent by or on behalf of the Secretary or an Officer or Officers of the Company shall be deemed to be authentic if the following conditions are satisfied: |
(a) | the Secretary or the Officer or each Officer, as the case may be, signed the original document, and for this purpose Original Document includes several documents in like form signed by the Secretary or one or more of those Officers; and |
(b) | the Electronic Record of the Original Document was sent by Electronic means by, or at the direction of, the Secretary or that Officer to an address specified in accordance with these Articles for the purpose for which it was sent; and |
(c) | Article 29.7 does not apply. |
This Article 29.4 applies whether the document is sent by or on behalf of the Secretary or Officer in his own right or as a representative of the Company.
29.5 | For example, where a sole Director signs a resolution and scans the resolution, or causes it to be scanned, as a PDF version which is attached to an email sent to the address in these Articles specified for that purpose, the PDF version shall be deemed to be the written resolution of that Director unless Article 29.7 applies. |
Manner of signing
29.6 | For the purposes of these Articles about the authentication of Electronic Records, a document will be taken to be signed if it is signed manually or in any other manner permitted by these Articles. |
Saving provision
29.7 | A notice, written resolution or other document under these Articles will not be deemed to be authentic if the recipient, acting reasonably: |
(a) | believes that the signature of the signatory has been altered after the signatory had signed the original document; or |
(b) | believes that the original document, or the Electronic Record of it, was altered, without the approval of the signatory, after the signatory signed the original document; or |
(c) | otherwise doubts the authenticity of the Electronic Record of the document |
and the recipient promptly gives notice to the sender setting the grounds of its objection. If the recipient invokes this Article, the sender may seek to establish the authenticity of the Electronic Record in any way the sender thinks fit.
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30 | Transfer by way of continuation |
30.1 | The Company may, by Special Resolution, resolve to be registered by way of continuation in a jurisdiction outside: |
(a) | the Cayman Islands; or |
(b) | such other jurisdiction in which it is, for the time being, incorporated, registered or existing. |
30.2 | To give effect to any resolution made pursuant to the preceding Article, the Directors may cause the following: |
(a) | an application be made to the Registrar of Companies of the Cayman Islands to deregister the Company in the Cayman Islands or in the other jurisdiction in which it is for the time being incorporated, registered or existing; and |
(b) | all such further steps as they consider appropriate to be taken to effect the transfer by way of continuation of the Company. |
31 | Winding up |
Distribution of assets in specie
31.1 | If the Company is wound up the Members may, subject to these Articles and any other sanction required by the Act, pass a Special Resolution allowing the liquidator to do either or both of the following: |
(a) | to divide in specie among the Members the whole or any part of the assets of the Company and, for that purpose, to value any assets and to determine how the division shall be carried out as between the Members or different classes of Members; and/or |
(b) | to vest the whole or any part of the assets in trustees for the benefit of Members and those liable to contribute to the winding up. |
No obligation to accept liability
31.2 | No Member shall be compelled to accept any assets if an obligation attaches to them. |
31.3 | The Directors are authorised to present a winding up petition |
31.4 | The Directors have the authority to present a petition for the winding up of the Company to the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands on behalf of the Company without the sanction of a resolution passed at a general meeting. |
32 | Amendment of Memorandum and Articles |
Power to change name or amend Memorandum
32.1 | Subject to the Act, the Company may, by Special Resolution: |
(a) | change its name; or |
(b) | change the provisions of its Memorandum with respect to its objects, powers or any other matter specified in the Memorandum. |
Power to amend these Articles
32.2 | Subject to the Act and as provided in these Articles, the Company may, by Special Resolution, amend these Articles in whole or in part. |
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