As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 15, 2003
Registration No. 333-
================================================================================
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM S-4
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
================================================================================
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
================================================================================
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware 3444 13-3431486
(State or other (Primary Standard Industrial (I.R.S. Employer
jurisdiction of Classification Code Number) Identification Number)
incorporation or
organization)
111 Monument Circle, Suite 4800
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
(317) 237-4122
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code,
of registrant's principal executive offices)
Timothy S. Durham
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES, INC.
111 Monument Circle, Suite 4800
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
(317) 237-4055
(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code,
of agent for service)
Copies to:
Stephen J. Dutton, Esq.
Barnes & Thornburg
11 South Meridian Street
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
(317) 236-1313
Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale of the securities to the
public: As soon as practicable after this registration statement becomes
effective.
If the securities being registered on this Form are being offered in
connection with the formation of a holding company and there is compliance with
General Instruction G, 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, 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. |_|
CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
======================================================================================================================
Proposed maximum Proposed maximum Amount of
Title of each class of securities to be Amount to be offering price aggregate registration
registered(1) registered(2) per unit offering price(3) fee
Common Stock, $0.0001 par value 57,468,776 $0.39 $11,206,411 $906.60
======================================================================================================================
(1) This registration statement relates to securities of Obsidian
Enterprises, Inc., a Delaware corporation, exchangeable for all of the issued
and outstanding shares of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of Net
Perceptions, Inc., a Delaware corporation, in the exchange offer by the
registrant for all of the issued and outstanding shares of Net Perceptions
common stock.
(2) The number of shares registered pursuant to this registration statement
is based upon the approximate number of shares of Net Perceptions common stock
outstanding or reserved for issuance under various plans or otherwise expected
to be issued upon the consummation of the proposed transaction to which this
registration statement relates multiplied by the exchange ratio of 2.0 shares of
Obsidian common stock for each Net Perceptions share. A 1 for 50 reverse stock
split of Obsidian common stock is effective for shareholders of record at
February 16, 2004, which is before the expiration date of this offer.
(3) Estimated solely for purposes of calculating the registration fee. The
registration fee was calculated pursuant to Rules 457(f)(1) and 457(f)(3) under
the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, based on the average of the high and low
prices for shares of Net Perceptions common stock as reported on the Nasdaq
National Market on December 12, 2003 ($0.39) and the maximum number of Net
Perceptions shares (approximately 28,734,388) that may be exchanged for the
securities being registered.
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 which specifically states that this registration
statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of
the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or until this registration statement
shall become effective on such date as the Commission, acting pursuant to said
Section 8(a), may determine.
PROSPECTUS
Subject to Completion,
Preliminary Prospectus dated December 15, 2003
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES, INC.
OFFER TO EXCHANGE
Each Outstanding Share of Common Stock of
Net Perceptions, Inc.
(including associated preferred stock purchase rights)
for Shares of Common Stock of
Obsidian Enterprises, Inc.
by
Obsidian Enterprises, Inc.
in each case subject to the procedures and limitations described
in this prospectus and the related letter of transmittal.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The exchange offer will expire at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on February 20,
2004, unless extended. You may withdraw shares you have tendered pursuant to
this exchange offer at any time prior to the expiration of this offer.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We are offering to exchange two shares of our common stock, par value
$0.0001 per share, (1/25 after the reverse stock split) for each of the issued
and outstanding shares of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of Net
Perceptions, Inc., upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in
this prospectus. Obsidian has effected a 1 for 50 reverse stock split effective
for shareholders of record at February 16, 2004. We have not adjusted the number
of shares and the per share amounts in this prospectus for the reverse stock
split except as expressly stated in this prospectus.
We are making this exchange offer to acquire voting control of, and
ultimately the entire equity interest in, Net Perceptions.
Our obligation to complete this offer is subject to each of the conditions
described in this prospectus.
Our common stock trades on the over the counter bulletin board under the
symbol "OBSD", and the Net Perceptions common stock trades on the Nasdaq
National Market under the symbol "NETP".
All references to Net Perceptions common stock include the associated Net
Perceptions preferred stock purchase rights issued pursuant to the Net
Perceptions Rights Agreement described in this prospectus.
The exchange of your shares of Net Perceptions common stock for shares of
our common stock in this exchange offer is likely to be subject to United States
federal income tax.
See "Risk Factors" beginning on page 25 for a discussion of various factors
that you should consider before making a decision to exchange your shares of Net
Perceptions common stock for shares of our common stock.
We are not asking you for a proxy and we request that you do not send a
proxy. We will make any solicitation of proxies only pursuant to separate proxy
solicitation materials complying with the requirements of Section 14(a) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
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 prospectus is December 15, 2003.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
Summary Term Sheet.............................................................1
Summary........................................................................5
Selected Unaudited Condensed Pro Forma Combined Financial Data................14
Comparative Unaudited Per Share Data..........................................16
Forward-Looking Statements....................................................18
Risk Factors..................................................................19
Background of the Exchange Offer..............................................22
Reasons for the Exchange Offer................................................23
Plans for Net Perceptions After the Proposed Merger...........................24
The Exchange Offer............................................................24
Description Of Obsidian Enterprises Capital Stock.............................43
Comparison Of Rights Of Holders Of Obsidian Enterprises
Common Stock And Net Perceptions Common Stock............................44
Where Can I Find More Information?............................................51
Net Perceptions Information...................................................52
Legal Matters.................................................................53
Experts.......................................................................53
Unaudited Condensed Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements....................1
In this prospectus, "Obsidian Enterprises," "we, "us" and "our" refer to
Obsidian Enterprises, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and, where appropriate, our
subsidiaries. You should rely only on the information contained or incorporated
by reference in this prospectus. We have not authorized anyone to provide you
with different or additional information. We are not offering these securities
in any jurisdiction where the offer is not permitted. The information contained
in this prospectus is accurate only as of the date on the cover page of this
prospectus, and the information contained in any document incorporated by
reference in this prospectus is accurate only as of the date of that document.
We undertake no obligation to update this information in the future. Our
business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have
changed since those dates.
This prospectus incorporates important business and financial information
about Obsidian Enterprises and Net Perceptions and their respective subsidiaries
from documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission that have not
been included in, or delivered with, this prospectus. This information is
available on the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov and from other sources. See
"Where Can I Find More Information?" on page 58.
You may also request copies of these documents from us, without charge,
upon written or oral request to our information agent, Innisfree M&A
Incorprated, toll-free at (888) 750-5834 or by calling collect at (212)
750-5833.
SUMMARY TERM SHEET
Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. is offering to exchange two of our shares of
common stock for each outstanding share of common stock (including associated
preferred stock purchase rights) of Net Perceptions, Inc. on the terms and
subject to the conditions in this Offer to Exchange and the related Letter of
Transmittal. The following are some questions you, as a Net Perceptions
stockholder, may have and the answers to those questions. You should carefully
read this Offer to Exchange and the accompanying Letter of Transmittal in their
entirety because the information in this summary term sheet is not complete and
additional important information is contained in the remainder of this Offer to
Exchange and the Letter of Transmittal.
Who is offering to exchange my Net Perceptions common stock?
We are a holding company headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, and have
historically invested in and acquired small and midcap companies in basic
industries such as manufacturing and transportation. See "Summary - Information
about Obsidian Enterprises" on page 6 and "Summary - Information about Net
Perceptions" on page 7.
What are you proposing?
We are proposing to acquire voting control of, and ultimately the entire
equity interest in, Net Perceptions by offering to exchange all of the
outstanding shares of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, and the
associated preferred stock purchase rights, of Net Perceptions, Inc., for shares
of our common stock. We intend to then have Net Perceptions merge with a
wholly-owned subsidiary of ours as soon as possible after the completion of the
exchange offer. The purpose of the proposed merger would be to acquire all of
the shares of Net Perceptions common stock not exchanged in the exchange offer.
What would I receive in exchange for my Net Perceptions shares?
A 1 for 50 reverse stock split of our common stock is effective for
shareholders of record at February 16, 2004, which is before the expiration date
of this offer.
Under the terms of the exchange offer, you would receive two shares of our
common stock (1/25 of a share after the reverse stock split) in exchange for
each share of Net Perceptions common stock you tender. See "The Exchange
Offer--Consideration to be Paid" on page 31.
Are the shares of Obsidian Enterprises publicly traded?
Our shares are traded on the Over the Counter Bulletin Board. Following the
exchange we intend to apply for inclusion on the NASDAQ SmallCap Market and
believe that we will satisfy the requirements for inclusion.
Is Obsidian Enterprises's financial condition relevant to my decision to tender
shares in the offer?
Yes. If you tender your shares of Net Perceptions common stock, and we
accept your tender, you will receive shares of our common stock. You should
consider our financial condition before you decide to become one of our
shareholders through the exchange offer. In considering our financial condition,
you should review the information contained in this prospectus and the documents
incorporated by reference in this prospectus, because they contain detailed
business, financial and other information about us. See "Where Can I Find More
Information" on page 58.
How long will it take to complete the exchange offer and the proposed merger?
We hope to complete the exchange offer and the proposed merger in the first
quarter of calendar 2004, or as soon thereafter as possible. The proposed merger
must be proposed by the board of directors of Net Perceptions. We expect to
complete the proposed merger shortly after we complete the exchange offer if we
acquire 90% or more of the outstanding shares of Net Perceptions common stock in
the exchange offer. If less than 90% of the shares of Net Perceptions common
stock are tendered in the exchange offer, then the proposed merger will require
approval of Net Perceptions's shareholders. In that case, we would complete the
proposed merger shortly after a special meeting of Net Perceptions's
shareholders is held to approve the proposed merger.
What are the most significant conditions to the completion of the exchange
offer?
Our offer is subject to several material conditions, which must be
satisfied or waived for us to complete the exchange offer. The most significant
of these conditions are:
o there being validly tendered and not withdrawn before the expiration
of the offer a number of shares, which, together with the shares then
owned by us, represents at least 51% of the total number of shares
outstanding on a fully diluted basis (the "Minimum Tender Condition"),
o Net Perceptions's board of directors taking action which would cause
the associated preferred stock purchase rights to be inapplicable to
the offer and the proposed merger or our being satisfied, in our
reasonable discretion, that the rights have been invalidated or are
otherwise inapplicable to the offer and the proposed merger of Net
Perceptions and us (or one of our subsidiaries) as described in this
prospectus (the "Rights Condition"); and
o our being satisfied, in our reasonable discretion, that Section 203 of
the Delaware General Corporation Law is inapplicable to the merger of
Net Perceptions, Inc. and us (or one of our subsidiaries) as described
in this prospectus (the "Section 203 Condition").
See "The Exchange Offer--Conditions to the Exchange Offer" beginning on
page 42.
How long do I have to decide whether to tender my shares?
You have until the expiration date of the offer to tender. The offer is
currently scheduled to expire on February 20, 2004, at 5:00 p.m., New York City
time. We have the option to extend the offer and we currently expect that we
would extend offer until the principal conditions to the offer, described above,
are satisfied. See "The Exchange Offer--Timing of the Exchange Offer" beginning
on page 31.
We may elect to provide a "subsequent offering period" for the offer. A
subsequent offering period, if one is included, will be an additional period of
time beginning after we have acquired shares tendered during the offer during
which stockholders may tender their shares and receive the offer consideration.
During a subsequent offering period, you may not withdraw any shares you tender
and you will receive the offer consideration immediately upon tender of your
shares.
Will I be notified if the offer is extended?
Yes. If we decide to extend or are required to extend the exchange offer,
we will inform the exchange agent of that fact and we will make a public
announcement of the results of the exchange offer and announce the new
expiration date, no later than 9:00 a.m., New York City time, on the next
business day after the day on which the offer was previously scheduled to
expire. See "The Exchange Offer--Extension, Termination and Amendment" beginning
on page 31.
How do I tender my shares in the exchange offer?
To tender your shares, you should do one of the following:
o If you hold shares of Net Perceptions common stock in your own name,
complete and sign the letter of transmittal and return it with your
physical share certificates to StockTrans, Inc., the exchange agent
for the exchange offer, at the appropriate address specified on the
back cover page of this prospectus before the expiration date of the
exchange offer.
o If you hold your shares in "street name" through a broker, instruct
your broker to tender your shares before the expiration date.
o If your Net Perceptions share certificates are not immediately
available or if you cannot deliver your Net Perceptions share
certificates and other documents to the exchange agent prior to the
expiration of the exchange offer, or you cannot complete the procedure
for delivery by book-entry transfer on a timely basis, you may still
tender your shares of Net Perceptions common stock if you comply with
the guaranteed delivery procedures described under "The Exchange
Offer--Procedure for Tendering" beginning on page 33.
Will I have to pay any fees or commissions?
Perhaps. If you are the record owner of your shares of Net Perceptions
common stock and you tender your shares of Net Perceptions common stock directly
to the exchange agent, you will not have to pay brokerage fees or incur similar
expenses. If you own your shares through a broker or other nominee, and your
broker tenders the shares on your behalf, your broker may charge you a fee for
doing so. You should consult with your broker or nominee to determine whether
any charges will apply to you.
How long do I have to withdraw my previously tendered shares?
You may withdraw previously tendered shares of Net Perceptions common stock
any time prior to the expiration of the exchange offer, and, following the
expiration, you may withdraw any tendered shares at any time until we accept
such shares for payment. Once we have accepted shares for exchange pursuant to
the offer, all tenders become irrevocable. See "The Exchange Offer--Withdrawal
Rights" on page 33.
How do I withdraw my previously tendered shares?
To withdraw your previously tendered shares of Net Perceptions common
stock, you must deliver a written or facsimile notice of withdrawal with the
required information to the exchange agent while you still have the right to
withdraw. If you tendered shares by giving instructions to a broker or bank, you
must instruct the broker or bank to arrange for the withdrawal of your shares.
Will the offer be followed by a merger if all the Net Perceptions shares are not
tendered in the offer?
If we accept for exchange and exchange at least 51% of the outstanding
shares of Net Perceptions on a fully diluted basis, we expect to merge Net
Perceptions with a wholly owned subsidiary. If that merger takes place, we will
own all of the shares and all remaining stockholders (other than us and
stockholders properly exercising their appraisal rights) will receive the stock
consideration paid in the offer. See "The Exchange Offer-Dissenters's Appraisal
Rights" on page 40.
Will Net Perceptions common stock continue to be publicly traded after the
exchange offer and the proposed merger?
Probably not. Thus, if you decide not to tender your shares of Net
Perceptions, your shares of Net Perceptions will not be publicly traded. If the
proposed merger occurs, Net Perceptions will no longer be publicly owned and its
common stock will no longer be publicly traded.
Even if the proposed merger does not occur, Net Perceptions may not
continue to be publicly traded. The minimum bid price for shares of Net
Perceptions has been less than $1 since its $1.50 per share distribution to
shareholders as of September 3, 2003. As a result, Net Perceptions is unlikely
to meet the requirements for continued inclusion on Nasdaq. While the shares of
Net Perceptions might trade in the over the counter markets if they are no
longer traded on Nasdaq, if we purchase a large portion of the outstanding
shares of Net Perceptions common stock in the exchange offer, there may be so
few remaining Net Perceptions stockholders that Net Perceptions may cease making
filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission or cease being required to
comply with the SEC rules relating to publicly held companies. As a result,
there may not be a public trading market for shares of Net Perceptions common
stock.
Further, Net Perceptions has also disclosed in its public filings that if
its stockholders approve and adopt the proposed Plan of Liquidation, it expects
to terminate registration of its common stock under the Securities Act of 1934,
which will substantially reduce publicly available information about Net
Perceptions.
If I decide not to tender, how will the offer affect my shares?
If you decide not to tender your shares of Net Perceptions, your shares may
be affected by the offer. If the offer is successful, we expect to conclude a
merger transaction in which all shares of Net Perceptions will be exchanged for
the same stock consideration paid in the offer. If the proposed second-step
merger takes place, stockholders who do not tender in the offer (other than
those properly exercising their appraisal rights) will receive the same stock
consideration that they would have received had they tendered their shares in
the offer. Therefore, if such merger takes place, the only difference between
tendering and not tendering shares in the offer is that tendering stockholders
will receive their shares of our common stock earlier. If, however, the merger
does not take place and the offer is consummated, the number of stockholders and
of shares that are still in the hands of the public may be so small that there
will no longer be an active or liquid public trading market (or, possibly, any
public trading market) for shares held by stockholders other than us, which may
affect the prices at which shares trade. Also, as described above, Net
Perceptions may cease making filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission
or being required to comply with the SEC rules relating to publicly held
companies. See "The Exchange Offer - Effect of the Exchange Offer on the Market
for Net Perceptions Shares; Registration Under the Exchange Act" on page 39.
What is the market value of my shares as of a recent date?
On November 12, 2003, the last full trading day before the announcement of
our intention to commence the offer, the last reported sales price of Net
Perceptions common stock reported on the Nasdaq National Market was $0.36 per
share. On December 12, 2003, the last full trading day before the date of this
prospectus, the last reported sales price of Net Perceptions common stock
reported on the Nasdaq National Market was $0.39 per share. Please obtain a
recent quotation for your shares before deciding whether to tender.
What are the federal income tax consequences of participating in the offer?
In general, your exchange of shares pursuant to the offer, more likely than
not, will be a taxable transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes and may
also be a taxable transaction under applicable state, local or foreign income or
other tax laws. You should consult your tax advisor about the tax consequences
to you of participating in the offer in light of your particular circumstances.
See "The Exchange Offer - Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the
Exchange Offer and the Proposed Merger" on page 37.
Where can I find more information about Obsidian Enterprises and Net
Perceptions?
You can find out information about Obsidian Enterprises and Net Perceptions
from sources described under "Where Can I Find More Information?" on page 58.
Whom can I call if I have questions about the exchange offer and the proposed
merger?
You can contact our information agent using the following contact
information:
Innisfree M&A Incorporated
501 Madison Avenue - 20th Floor
New York, NY 10022
(212) 750-5833 (call collect)
or
(888) 750-5834 (toll-free)
email: info@innisfreema.com
TO THE STOCKHOLDERS OF NET PERCEPTIONS, INC.:
SUMMARY
This summary provides an overview of the key aspects of the exchange offer.
This summary is not complete and does not contain all of the information you
should consider before tendering your shares of common stock. You should
carefully read all of the information contained or incorporated by reference in
this prospectus, including the information set forth in the "Risk Factors"
section and our financial statements and related notes.
THE EXCHANGE OFFER (PAGE 30).
Under the terms of the exchange offer, we are offering to exchange two
shares (on a pre-reverse split basis) of newly issued common stock, par value
$0.0001 per share, of Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. for each issued and outstanding
share of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of Net Perceptions, Inc.
(the "Net Perceptions common stock"). The 1 for 50 reverse stock split of our
common stock will change the exchange ratio to 1/25 of a share for each share of
Net Perceptions common stock. As used in this prospectus, "Net Perceptions
common stock" includes the associated preferred stock purchase rights issued
pursuant to Net Perceptions's Rights Agreement, dated as of June 1, 2001,
between Net Perceptions and Well Fargo Bank Minnesota, N.A. as rights agent (the
"Rights Agreement").
You will not receive any fractional share of our common stock in the
exchange offer. Instead, you will receive cash in an amount equal to the value
of the fractional share of our common stock that you would otherwise have been
entitled to receive.
SUBSEQUENT MERGER.
Promptly after we complete the exchange offer, we intend to seek to have
Net Perceptions complete a merger with a wholly owned subsidiary of ours (the
"proposed merger"). We refer to the exchange offer, together with the proposed
merger, as the Net Perceptions acquisition. In the proposed merger, each share
of Net Perceptions common stock that has not been exchanged in the exchange
offer (except for treasury shares of Net Perceptions and shares we beneficially
own directly or indirectly for our own account (except shares we hold in a
fiduciary capacity)) would be converted into the right to receive the same
acquisition consideration as offered in the exchange offer, subject to
dissenters' appraisal rights under Delaware law. See "The Exchange
Offer--Dissenters' Appraisal Rights" on page 40. Upon completion of the Net
Perceptions acquisition, based on the receipt by Net Perceptions shareholders of
the total stock consideration, the former Net Perceptions shareholders will own
a maximum of 29% of the then outstanding shares of our common stock. See
"Purpose of the Exchange Offer; The Proposed Merger"
YOUR RECEIPT OF OUR COMMON STOCK IN EXCHANGE FOR NET PERCEPTIONS COMMON STOCK
PURSUANT TO THIS EXCHANGE OFFER MAY BE A TAXABLE TRANSACTION TO YOU (PAGE 37).
In the opinion of our counsel, Barnes & Thornburg, the exchange of shares
of Net Perceptions common stock for shares of our common stock pursuant to the
exchange offer and the proposed merger (1) will be treated for federal income
tax purposes as component parts of an integrated transaction pursuant to a plan,
but that (2) the integrated transaction will nevertheless, more likely than not,
fail to qualify as a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Consequently, holders of shares of
Net Perceptions common stock generally will recognize gain or loss for United
States federal income tax purposes on the exchange of their shares of Net
Perceptions common stock for our common stock in the exchange offer and the
proposed merger. The gain or loss you may have to recognize generally will be
measured by the difference between the cash and the fair market value of our
common stock received in the exchange offer and the proposed merger, compared
with the exchanging Net Perceptions shareholder's tax basis for the shares of
Net Perceptions common stock surrendered in the exchange offer and proposed
merger.
OUR OBLIGATION TO COMPLETE THE EXCHANGE OFFER IS SUBJECT TO A NUMBER OF
CONDITIONS (PAGE 42).
Our obligation to exchange shares of our common stock for Net Perceptions
common stock pursuant to this exchange offer is subject to the following
material conditions, any of which we may waive:
o Tender of more than 51% of the shares of Net Perceptions common stock.
Shareholders of Net Perceptions common stock must have tendered enough
shares so that, after the completion of the exchange offer, we own a
number of shares of Net Perceptions common stock which constitutes at
least 51% of the total outstanding shares of Net Perceptions common
stock on a fully diluted basis, as though all options or other
securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for shares
of Net Perceptions common stock had been converted, exercised or
exchanged.
o Rights Inapplicable. The board of directors of Net Perceptions shall
have taken action which would cause the rights issued under the Net
Perceptions Right Agreement to be inapplicable to the offer and the
proposed merger, or the Net Perceptions Rights Agreement shall have
been found inapplicable or illegal so the associated preferred stock
purchase rights would not be triggered by the exchange offer and the
proposed merger.
o Section 203 Inapplicable. We are satisfied, in our reasonable
discretion, that Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law
is inapplicable to the merger of Net Perceptions, Inc. and one of our
subsidiaries as described in this prospectus.
The exchange offer is also subject to other terms and conditions, including
that the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission relating to the securities to be issued in the exchange offer, shall
have become effective. These conditions and the other conditions to the exchange
offer are discussed under "The Exchange Offer--Conditions to the Exchange Offer"
in this prospectus.
INFORMATION ABOUT OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES.
Obsidian Enterprises, Inc.
111 Monument Circle, Suite 4800
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
(317) 237-4122
We are a holding company headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, and have
historically invested in and acquired small and mid cap companies in basic
industries such as manufacturing and transportation. We conduct business through
our subsidiaries:
o Pyramid Coach, Inc., a Tennessee corporation, and Obsidian Leasing,
Inc., a Mississippi corporation (collectively "Pyramid"), providers of
corporate and celebrity entertainer coach leases;
o U.S. Rubber Reclaiming, Inc., an Indiana corporation ("U.S. Rubber"),
a butyl-rubber reclaiming operation;
o United Expressline, Inc., an Indiana corporation, operating as United
Expressline and Southwest Trailers, a manufacturer of steel-framed
cargo, racing ATV and specialty trailers; and
o Danzer Industries, Inc., a Maryland corporation ("Danzer"), a
manufacturer of service and utility truck bodies and accessories and
steel-framed cargo trailers.
A change in control and reorganization of Obsidian Enterprises occurred on
June 21, 2001. On that date, Timothy S. Durham was elected as our Chief
Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, and we acquired from Obsidian
Capital Partners, L.P. ("Obsidian Capital"), Mr. Durham and certain other
shareholders all of the shares of the following companies: Pyramid; Champion
Trailer, Inc., an Indiana corporation ("Champion"), which we sold in January
2003; and U.S. Rubber. On July 31, 2001, we acquired from Obsidian Capital and
Mr. Durham substantially all of the assets of United Acquisition, Inc., an
Indiana corporation ("United Acquisition"), which we now operate as United
Expressline, Inc. We made all of the acquisitions in exchange for shares of our
Series C Preferred Stock ("Series C Preferred Stock") and pursuant to an
Acquisition Agreement and Plan of Reorganization by and among us, Danzer,
Pyramid, Champion, United Acquisition, U.S. Rubber, Obsidian Capital, Timothy S.
Durham and other related parties, dated as of June 21, 2001. Prior to the
reorganization, we had engaged, through our wholly owned subsidiary, Danzer, in
the fabrication of metal parts and truck bodies for the service and utility
markets.
In October 2001, we changed our jurisdiction of incorporation from New York
to Delaware and we changed our name from Danzer Corporation to Obsidian
Enterprises, Inc. We were originally incorporated in New York in 1987 under the
name Affiliated National, Inc. and subsequently changed our name to Global
Environmental Corp. and then to Danzer Corporation. See "Where Can I Find More
Information?" in this prospectus.
INFORMATION ABOUT NET PERCEPTIONS, INC.
We derived the following information from the publicly available documents
of Net Perceptions Inc., a Delaware corporation ("Net Perceptions").
Net Perceptions, Inc.
7700 France Avenue South
Edina, Minnesota 55435
(952) 842-5000
Net Perceptions was incorporated in Delaware in July 1996, and its initial
product was shipped in January 1997. Net Perceptions developed and marketed
software products to customers in the retail industry to enable those customers
to integrate and analyze information about their customers, products and
transaction activity to generate specific actions to take to improve their
marketing, selling and merchandising effectiveness.
Net Perceptions has sustained losses on a quarterly and annual basis since
inception. As of September 30, 2003, Net Perceptions had an accumulated deficit
of $221 million. Its net loss was $1.7 million in the third quarter of 2003.
These losses resulted from significant costs incurred in the development and
marketing of its products and services as well as a decline in its revenues
since the third quarter of 2000.
On October 21, 2003, Net Perceptions announced that its board of directors
had unanimously approved a plan of liquidation (the "Plan of Liquidation"),
which Net Perceptions intended to submit to its stockholders for approval and
adoption at a special meeting of stockholders to be held as soon as reasonably
practicable. Net Perceptions filed a preliminary proxy statement relating to the
Plan of Liquidation on Schedule 14A with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on November 4, 2003. The key features of the Plan of Liquidation are (i) filing
a Certificate of Dissolution with the Secretary of State of Delaware and
thereafter remaining in existence as a non-operating entity for three years;
(ii) winding up its affairs, including selling its remaining non-cash assets,
and taking such action as may be necessary to preserve the value of its assets
and distributing its assets in accordance with the Plan of Liquidation; (iii)
paying its creditors; (iv) terminating any of its remaining commercial
agreements, relationships or outstanding obligations; (v) resolving its
outstanding litigation; (vi) establishing a contingency reserve for payment of
its expenses and liabilities; and (vii) preparing to make distributions to its
stockholders. Although its board of directors has adopted the Plan of
Liquidation and has recommended its approval and adoption by its stockholders,
Net Perceptions stated that its board would continue to consider and evaluate,
consistent with its efforts to maximize stockholder value, viable alternative
transaction proposals which it may receive and which it determines are
reasonably likely to achieve higher returns to stockholders than liquidation and
dissolution in accordance with the Plan of Liquidation, including proposals for
the acquisition of the entire company or all or substantially all of its assets.
Net Perceptions continues to service its existing customers and may
continue to derive a declining level of revenues from software licenses,
software maintenance and professional services relating to existing customers.
However, Net Perceptions is no longer actively marketing its products and has
not retained any employees to do so. Net Perceptions expects that the size of
its customer base will decline and Net Perceptions does not expect that future
product or service revenues, if any, will be significant. Net Perceptions
anticipates that its operating expenses will continue to decline in 2003, but
will continue to constitute a material use of its cash resources. Net
Perceptions expects to incur additional losses and continued negative cash flow
for the foreseeable future. Net Perceptions does not expect to be profitable as
an independent company. See "Where Can I Find More Information?" in this
prospectus.
REASONS FOR THE EXCHANGE OFFER (PAGE 29).
We are proposing the exchange offer and the proposed merger because we
believe that the exchange offer and the proposed merger will benefit our
shareholders, including Net Perceptions shareholders who would become Obsidian
Enterprises shareholders by means of the Net Perceptions acquisition. The
exchange offer will expand our shareholder base and increase our stockholders'
equity. The proposed merger will further expand our shareholder base and further
increase our stockholders' equity and will also provide us with cash for our
operations and additional possible acquisitions. Our board of directors' reasons
for recommending the exchange offer and the proposed merger are set forth in
"Reasons for the Exchange Offer" in this prospectus.
OUR PLANS FOR NET PERCEPTIONS (PAGE 30).
We have not determined whether we will continue to operate the remaining
business of Net Perceptions or whether we would seek to sell that business or
its assets. We plan to use the cash remaining in Net Perceptions after the
merger to fund additional possible acquisitions and for working capital
purposes.
OUR DIVIDEND POLICY.
We have not historically paid regular cash dividends. The holders of our
common stock would receive dividends if and when declared by our board of
directors out of legally available funds. The declaration and payment of
dividends will depend upon business conditions, operating results, capital and
reserve requirements, covenants in our debt instruments and our board of
directors' consideration of other relevant factors. We can give shareholders no
assurance that we will pay dividends on our common stock in the future. See
"Market for the Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters" in
our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2002, which
is incorporated by reference in this prospectus.
DIVIDEND POLICY OF NET PERCEPTIONS.
The following description is based on our understanding of Net
Perceptions's dividend policy as derived from its publicly available documents.
Net Perceptions has not declared or paid any cash dividends on its common
stock since its inception, other than the $1.50 per share cash distribution to
its shareholders of record as of August 18, 2003, and does not intend to pay any
cash dividends in the foreseeable future except in connection with the
liquidation and dissolution proposed by its board of directors. See "Market for
Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters" in the Annual Report
of Net Perceptions on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2002,
which is incorporated by reference in this prospectus.
THE EXCHANGE OFFER IS CURRENTLY SCHEDULED TO EXPIRE ON FEBRUARY 20, 2004, (PAGE
31).
The exchange offer will expire at 5:00 p.m., New York city time, on
February 20, 2004 unless we extend the period of time for which the exchange
offer is open.
THE EXCHANGE OFFER MAY BE EXTENDED, TERMINATED OR AMENDED (PAGE 31).
We expressly reserve the right, in our sole discretion, at any time or from
time to time, to extend the period of time during which the exchange offer
remains open, and we can do so by giving oral or written notice of the extension
to the exchange agent. We are not providing any assurance that we will exercise
this right to extend the exchange offer, although we currently intend to do so
until all conditions have been satisfied or, to the extent permissible, waived.
During any extension, all shares of Net Perceptions common stock previously
tendered and not properly withdrawn will remain subject to the exchange offer,
subject to the right of each shareholder of Net Perceptions to withdraw his or
her shares of Net Perceptions common stock.
Subject to the SEC's applicable rules and regulations, we also reserve the
right, in our sole discretion, at any time or from time to time:
o to delay our acceptance for exchange or the exchange of any shares of
Net Perceptions common stock, or to terminate the exchange offer, upon
the failure of any of the conditions of the exchange offer to be
satisfied prior to the expiration date;
o to waive any condition (other than the conditions that cannot be
waived; or
o to amend the exchange offer in any respect, by giving oral or written
notice of such delay, termination or amendment to the exchange agent
and by making a public announcement.
We will follow any extension, termination, amendment or delay with a public
announcement, as promptly as practicable. In the case of an extension, any
related announcement will be issued no later than 9:00 A.M., New York City time,
on the next business day after the previously scheduled expiration date. Subject
to applicable law (including Rules 14d-4(c) and 14d-6(d) under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which require that any material change in the
information published, sent or given to Net Perceptions's shareholders in
connection with the offer to exchange be promptly sent to those shareholders in
a manner reasonably designed to inform them of that change) and without limiting
the manner in which we may choose to make any public announcement, we assume no
obligation to publish, advertise or otherwise communicate any public
announcement of this type other than by making a release to the Dow Jones News
Service, PR Newswire or some other similar national news service.
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF OBSIDIAN
The name, current principal occupation or employment and material
occupations, positions, offices or employment for the past five years of each
director and executive officer of Obsidian are set forth below. The business
address of each director and officer is 111 Monument Circle, Suite 4800,
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204. None of the directors and officers of the Purchaser
listed below has, during the past five years, (i) been involved in a criminal
proceeding or (ii) been a party to any judicial or administrative proceeding
that resulted in a judgment, decree or final order enjoining the person from
future violations of, or prohibiting activities subject to, U.S. federal or
state securities laws, or a finding or any violation of U.S. federal or state
securities laws. All directors and officers listed below are citizens of the
United States. Directors are identified by an asterisk.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NAME AGE BUSINESS EXPERIENCE AND SERVICE AS A DIRECTOR
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Timothy S. Durham* 41 Mr. Durham has served as the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of
the Board and as a director of Obsidian Enterprises since June 2001.
He has served as a Managing Member and Chief Executive Officer of
Obsidian Capital Company LLC, which is the general partner of
Obsidian Capital Partners LP, since April 2000. Beginning in 1998,
Mr. Durham founded and maintained a controlling interest in several
investment funds, including Durham Capital Corporation, Durham
Hitchcock Whitesell and Company LLC, and Durham Whitesell &
Associates LLC. From 1991 to 1998, Mr. Durham served in various
capacities at Carpenter Industries, Inc., including as Vice Chairman,
President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Durham also serves as a
director of National Lampoon, Inc. Mr. Durham is Mr. Osler's
brother-in-law.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Daniel S. Laikin* 41 Mr. Laikin has served as a director of Obsidian Enterprises since
September 2001. Mr. Laikin is Chief Operating Officer and a
director of National Lampoon, Inc. He has been a Managing Member of
Fourleaf Management LLC, a management company of an investment fund
that invests in technology related entities, since 1999. Mr. Laikin
served as the Chairman of the Board of Biltmore Homes from 1993 to
1998.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
D. Scott McKain* 48 Mr. McKain has been a director of Obsidian Enterprises and Vice
Chairman of the Board since September 2001. He has served as the
Chairman of McKain Performance Group since 1981. Mr. McKain also
has been the Vice Chairman of Durham Capital Corporation since
1999. From 1983 to 1998, Mr. McKain was a broadcast journalist and
television commentator. Mr. McKain also has authored several books
and is a keynote speaker who presents high content workshops across
the nation.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jeffrey W. Osler* 35 Mr. Osler has served as the Executive Vice President, Secretary and
Treasurer and as a director of Obsidian Enterprises since June
2001. He also is a Managing Member of Obsidian Capital Company LLC
and has served as Senior Vice President at Durham Whitesell &
Associates LLC and Durham Capital Corporation since September 1998.
Prior to that time, Mr. Osler served as the General Manager of
Hilton Head National Golf Club. Mr. Osler is Mr. Durham's
brother-in-law.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anthony P. Schlichte* 48
Anthony Schlichte has served as Executive Vice President, Corporate
Finance of Obsidian Enterprises since March 2003. Mr. Schlichte's
responsibilities at Obsidian Enterprises include securing senior and
mezzanine debt for various subsidiary and affiliated companies, as
well as identifying new acquisitions to compliment and/or diversify
existing holdings. Mr. Schlichte has more than 25 years of commercial
lending experience. Past posts include vice president and senior
lending officer positions at First Indiana Bank, Bank One, American
Fletcher National Bank (now Bank One), Indiana National Bank (now
Bank One). Mr. Schlichte holds a B.S. from Indiana University and an
M.B.A from Butler University.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
John A. Schmit* 35 John A. Schmit has been a director since July 2001. Mr. Schmit
joined Renaissance Capital Group, Inc. in 1997 and is Vice
President--Investments. Prior to joining Renaissance Capital Group,
Mr. Schmit practiced law with the law firm of Gibson, Ochsner &
Adkins in Amarillo, Texas from September 1992 to September 1994.
Between August 1994 and May 1996, Mr. Schmit attended Georgetown
University where he earned his L.L.M. in International and
Comparative Law.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Goodhue W. Smith, III* 53 Mr. Smith has been a director of Obsidian Enterprises since 1997.
Mr. Smith founded Duncan-Smith Investments, Co., an investment
banking firm in San Antonio, Texas, in 1978 and since that time has
served as its Secretary and Treasurer. Mr. Smith also is a director
of Citizens National Bank of Milam County.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rick D. Snow 40 Rick Snow has been Executive Vice President and Chief Financial
Officer of Obsidian Enterprises since March 2003. Mr. Snow also
serves as Chief Financial Officer for Fair Finance, a company
located in Akron, Ohio, of which Timothy S. Durham, Chairman and
C.E.O. of Obsidian Enterprises, is C.E.O. At Fair Finance, Mr. Snow
oversees the financial management of the company, including
financial reporting, tax compliance, systems implementation and
strategic planning. Mr. Snow came to Fair Finance in 2002 with
several years of experience at Grant Thornton, a national accounting
firm, and Brockman, Coats, Gedelian & Co., a regional accounting
firm, where he worked as Senior Manager to oversee business and
assurance services and business advisory services. His background
also includes extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Terry G. Whitesell* 64 Mr. Whitesell has served as the President and Chief Operating
Officer and as a director of Obsidian Enterprises since June 2001.
Prior to that time he co-founded several entities with Mr. Durham,
including Obsidian Capital Company, LLC, Durham Hitchcock Whitesell
and Company LLC and Durham Whitesell & Associates LLC. Mr.
Whitesell also is a Managing Member of Obsidian Capital Company
LLC. From April 1992 until September 1998, Mr. Whitesell served as
Executive Vice President of Carpenter Industries, Inc.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
The following table sets forth certain information concerning the
compensation paid or accrued by Obsidian Enterprises for services rendered
during our past three fiscal years ended October 31, 2002 by our Chief Executive
Officer. (No executive officers received a salary and bonus for fiscal 2002 in
excess of $100,000 so as to require their inclusion in the table.)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Compensation Long-Term
Compensation Awards
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name and Year Salary Bonus Securities All Other
Underlying
Principal Position Options/SARs Compensation
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Timothy S. Durham, 2002 $75,000 $0 $0 $0
Chief Executive 2001 $27,404 $0 $0 $0
Officer(1) 2000 N/A N/A N/A N/A
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) Mr. Durham was elected Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board on
June 21, 2001.
OPTION/SAR GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
No grants were made during fiscal 2002 pursuant to Obsidian Enterprises's
1999 Stock Option Plan or the 2001 Long Term Incentive Plan.
Aggregated Option/SAR Exercises in Last Fiscal Year and Fiscal
Year-End Option/SAR Values
No executive officer named in the Summary Compensation Table held
unexercised options or SARs as of October 31, 2002 or exercised options during
fiscal 2002.
EMPLOYMENT AND CONTROL AGREEMENTS
Obsidian Enterprises did not have any employment agreements with any of the
executive officers named in the Summary Compensation Table as of the end of
fiscal 2002.
COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS
Directors who are not employees of the Company are entitled to a board
meeting attendance fee of $750 plus reimbursement of expenses.
THE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE
D. Scott McKain, who served as Chair, and John A. Schmit served as the
members of the Compensation Committee for fiscal 2002. The Compensation
Committee met once in fiscal 2002. The Committee reviews all salary and employee
benefit issues relating to our employees and directors and makes recommendations
to the Board regarding the compensation of executive officers. The Compensation
Committee also is responsible for the administration of the 1999 Stock
Compensation Plan and 2001 Long Term Incentive Plan.
REPORT OF THE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE
October 31, 2002
COMPENSATION POLICIES
In connection with the change of control and reorganization of the Company
that occurred on June 21, 2001 (the "Reorganization"), Timothy S. Durham became
Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of the Company, replacing the
former Chief Executive Officer, who resigned on that date. The other executive
officers of the Company also were replaced in the Reorganization. In addition,
Mr. Durham and the other new executive officers acquired in the Reorganization
beneficial ownership of more than a majority of the voting power of the
Company's capital stock.
Given the Reorganization, his beneficial ownership interest and the
Company's financial concerns, Mr. Durham recommended to the Compensation
Committee that he and the other new executive officers receive only nominal
salaries for the 2001 fiscal year and that no bonuses or other incentive
compensation packages be approved for fiscal 2001. The Compensation Committee
adopted Mr. Durham's recommendations. As a consequence, Mr. Durham's total
compensation for the more than four months that he served during the 2001 fiscal
year was only $27,404 and none of the other new executive officers received
compensation in an amount requiring the compensation to be reported in the
Summary Compensation Table.
Mr. Durham made similar recommendations concerning compensation for fiscal
2002 as he had made for fiscal 2001 and the Compensation Committee again adopted
his recommendations. Consequently, Mr. Durham received a salary of $75,000 and
no bonus for fiscal 2002 and none of the other executive officers received
compensation in an amount that would require their inclusion in the Summary
Compensation Table. The amount of compensation paid to Mr. Durham and the other
executive officers was not based on the Company's performance.
This report is submitted by the members of the Compensation Committee:
D. Scott McKain
John A. Schmit
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND
INSIDER PARTICIPATION
A number of related party transactions occurred in connection with the
Reorganization in 2001. As discussed above, the Reorganization transactions
occurred in two parts:
o On June 21, 2001, we acquired from Obsidian Capital Partners, Mr. Durham
and certain other shareholders all of the shares of Pyramid, Champion and
U.S. Rubber.
o On July 31, 2001, we acquired from Obsidian Capital Partners and Mr. Durham
substantially all of the assets of United.
Prior to these transactions, DW Leasing, LLC ("DW Leasing"), a company
owned by Messrs. Durham and Whitesell, had entered into a number of transactions
with Pyramid whereby coaches owned by DW Leasing were operated by Pyramid and
the debt on these coaches were cross-guaranteed by DW Leasing and Pyramid.
Although we do not own any interest in DW Leasing, the accounts of DW Leasing
are included in our financial statements.
The agreements entered into at the time of the Reorganization contemplated
that the coaches and related debt would be promptly transferred by DW Leasing to
the Company's subsidiary, Obsidian Leasing Co., Inc. ("Obsidian Leasing").
Twenty seven coaches were transferred by DW Leasing to Obsidian Leasing in
November 2001 in consideration of the assumption of the related debt. Pyramid
continues to operate the remaining seven coaches for DW Leasing pursuant to a
management agreement. Prior to the Reorganization described above, DW Leasing
and Pyramid were privately owned and structured in a tax-efficient manner.
Because of the nature of this structure, transfer of the remaining seven coaches
owned by DW Leasing would have adverse tax consequences to the owners of DW
Leasing which had not been contemplated in the Reorganization. Accordingly, we
have agreed to continue to operate these coaches through DW Leasing. During
2002, we received gross revenue of $674,000 from the coaches operated by Pyramid
for DW Leasing and paid fees of $538,000 to DW Leasing for the use of the
coaches.
During 2002 and 2001, Obsidian Capital Partners, LP, the majority
stockholder of the Company, advanced funds to the Company. These funds were
advanced to fund losses of Champion and to fund the professional fees with
respect to the filings with the SEC in connection with the Reorganization in
2001 and closing costs in connection with the Reorganization and the closing of
the purchase of United. The maximum amount outstanding during 2002, related to
funding of Champion losses and funding professional fees was $1,290,000 and
$1,275,000 respectively. On April 25, 2002, $1,290,000 of the amounts advanced
was converted to Series C Preferred Stock. On October 24, 2002, $1,275,000 of
the amounts advanced was converted to Series D Preferred Stock.
Mr. Durham owns a 50% interest in Fair Holdings, Inc. ("Fair Holdings").
During 2002, Fair Holdings advanced funds to the Company to fund a debt
reduction at Champion and to fund certain professional fees with respect to the
filing with the SEC. The maximum amount outstanding in 2002 to Fair Holdings
related to debt restructuring at Champion and funding certain professional fees
was $596,000 and $270,000, respectively. On April 25, 2002, $596,000 of the
amounts advanced was converted to Series C Preferred Stock. On October 24, 2002,
$270,000 of the amounts advanced was converted to Series D Preferred Stock.
In addition to the advances, during the fiscal year ended October 31, 2002,
Fair Holdings provided a $5,000,000 line of credit to Obsidian Enterprises. The
maximum amount outstanding in 2002 was $1,798,000. The line of credit is
unsecured, bears interest at 10% per annum and matures in January 2005.
Fair Holdings also has leased certain computer equipment to us on a
short-term basis commencing on August 1, 2002. The rental paid in 2002 was
$1,000.
Fair Holdings lent Obsidian Leasing an aggregate of $1,588,000 in
connection with the refinancing of coaches. The maximum amount outstanding
during 2002 for this refinancing was $1,588,000. The loans are ten-year,
interest-only loans, subordinate to the bank debt on the coaches and bear
interest at 14% per annum.
We sublease our headquarters space from Fair Holdings under a sublease with
a monthly rental of $3,675. Prior to the sublease with Fair Holdings, we sublet
space from Obsidian Capital Company and paid $56,000 to Obsidian Capital Company
for its space in 2002.
Fair Holdings leased certain computer equipment to Danzer under a twelve
month lease effective August 1, 2002. The aggregate rental due under the twelve
month lease is $8,000.
DW Trailer, LLC, a company owned by Messrs. Durham and Whitesell, has
leased a forklift to Danzer under a 38 month lease at $1,000 per month.
United advanced Obsidian Capital Company $216,000, as a part of the closing
of the purchase of the United transaction. The amount was paid back to United in
2002.
DC Investments, a company controlled by Mr. Durham, lent U.S. Rubber
$700,000 pursuant to a subordinated note which bears interest at 15% per annum
with the principal payable in March 2007. The loan was made to permit us to
complete the elimination of the interest of SerVaas, Inc. in U.S. Rubber.
During 2002, DC Investments purchased the senior secured loans to Champion
from the bank which held them. The maximum amount outstanding to DC Investments
in 2002 was $602,000. The loans bear interest at 5.5%.
On October 30, 2002, we entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with Messrs.
Durham and Whitesell pursuant to which Champion agreed to sell all of its assets
to an entity to be designated by Messrs. Durham and Whitesell subject to the
payment by Messrs. Durham and Whitesell of $1.00 and the assumption by the
entity acquiring the assets of all of the liabilities of Champion except for the
liability of Champion to Markpoint Equity Growth Fund IV, which was settled by
Obsidian Enterprises. This transaction closed on January 30, 2003.
Management believes that the transactions described above were on terms no
less favorable to Obsidian Enterprises and our subsidiaries than would have been
the case for transactions with unrelated third parties.
THE EXCHANGE OFFER SHALL OCCUR PROMPTLY AFTER THE EXPIRATION DATE (PAGE 32).
Upon the terms and subject to the conditions of the exchange offer,
including, if the exchange offer is extended or amended, the terms and
conditions of any extension or amendment, promptly after the expiration date, we
will accept for exchange, and will exchange, shares of Net Perceptions common
stock that you have validly tendered and have not properly withdrawn.
YOU MAY WITHDRAW TENDERED SHARES AT ANY TIME PRIOR TO THE EXCHANGE OF THOSE
SHARES (PAGE 33).
You may withdraw any shares of Net Perceptions common stock that you have
tendered pursuant to the exchange offer at any time prior to the expiration
date. You may also withdraw your shares at any time after the expiration date
until we have accepted your shares pursuant to the exchange offer.
YOU MUST COMPLY WITH THE PROCEDURE FOR TENDERING SHARES (PAGE 33).
For you to validly tender shares of Net Perceptions common stock pursuant
to the exchange offer:
o the exchange agent must receive at one of its addresses set forth on the
back cover of this prospectus (1) a properly completed and duly executed
letter of transmittal, along with any required signature guarantees, or an
agent's message in connection with a book-entry transfer, and any other
required documents, and (2) either certificates for tendered shares of Net
Perceptions common stock or, if you tender those shares of Net Perceptions
common stock pursuant to the procedures for book-entry set forth below,
confirmation of receipt of that tender, in each case before the expiration
date, or
o you must comply with the guaranteed delivery procedures set forth in "The
Exchange Offer; Procedure for Tendering; Guaranteed Delivery" in this
prospectus.
THERE ARE NO DISSENTERS' APPRAISAL RIGHTS IN CONNECTION WITH THE EXCHANGE OFFER.
HOWEVER, DISSENTERS' APPRAISAL RIGHTS WILL EXIST IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED
MERGER (PAGE 40).
No dissenters' rights are available in connection with the exchange offer.
However, if the proposed merger is consummated, Net Perceptions shareholders
would have certain rights under the Delaware General Corporation Law to dissent
and demand appraisal rights and to receive payment in cash of the fair value of
their shares as determined by a Delaware trial court. The procedures for
perfecting such rights are set forth in Section 262 of the Delaware General
Corporation Law and are further described under "The Exchange Offer-Dissenters'
Appraisal Rights" on page 40 in this prospectus.
A copy of Section 262 of the Delaware General Corporation Law is provided
in Annex A.
THERE ARE MATERIAL DIFFERENCES IN THE RIGHTS OF OUR SHAREHOLDERS AND OF NET
PERCEPTIONS SHAREHOLDERS (PAGE 51).
Our governing documents and the governing documents of Net Perceptions
vary, and, to that extent, Net Perceptions shareholders will have different
rights once they become Obsidian Enterprises shareholders. The differences are
described in more detail under "Comparison of Rights of Holders of Obsidian
Enterprises Common Stock and Net Perceptions Common Stock" on page 51 in this
prospectus.
WE WILL ACCOUNT FOR THE PROPOSED MERGER USING THE PURCHASE METHOD (PAGE 48).
We will account for the proposed merger as a purchase for financial
reporting purposes.
REGULATORY APPROVALS (PAGE 48).
We are not aware of any federal or state regulatory approvals, government
license or permit or other regulatory requirements that would be triggered by
the acquisition of shares pursuant to this exchange offer.
RISK FACTORS (PAGE 25).
In evaluating whether to tender your shares of Net Perceptions pursuant to
this exchange offer, you should carefully read this prospectus and the documents
incorporated by reference in the prospectus and, in particular, you should
consider the factors discussed in the section entitled "Risk Factors" beginning
on page 25.
COMPARATIVE MARKET PRICE INFORMATION
The following table lists the closing prices of the stock of Obsidian
Enterprises and Net Perceptions on November 12, 2003, the last trading day
before we announced the offer.
Obsidian Net
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
November 12, 2003 $0.30 $0.39
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The table below sets forth the high and low last sale prices for Obsidian
Enterprises's, and Net Perceptions's common stock for the periods indicated.
Obsidian Enterprises's fiscal year ends October 31 and Net Perceptions's fiscal
year ends December 31.
Obsidian Enterprises Common Net Perceptions
Common
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Quarter Ended High Low High Low
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2001 March 31 $.19 $.19 1.09 .88
June 30 .26 .23 1.88 1.60
September 30 .15 .14 1.05 .98
December 31 .15 .12 1.75 1.67
2002 March 31 .16 .16 1.60 1.53
June 30 .20 .20 1.11 1.08
September 30 .15 .15 .99 .89
December 31 .24 .18 1.38 1.25
2003 March 31 .24 .22 1.42 1.39
June 30 .14 .14 1.62 1.59
September 30 .28 .25 .51 .50
December 31 (through .30 .29 .43 .39
December 12, 2003)
You can obtain current stock price quotations for Obsidian Enterprises and
Net Perceptions from a newspaper, on the Internet or by calling your broker.
SUMMARY FINANCIAL AND OTHER DATA.
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
The following tables set forth certain selected consolidated financial
information concerning Obsidian Enterprises. This information is not covered by
the independent auditor's report. For further information, see the:
o Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of Obsidian
Enterprises, Inc. and subsidiaries as of July 31, 2003 and for the nine
months ended July 31, 2003 and 2002 in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the three months ended July 31, 2003 (the "Quarterly Report") which has
been delivered with and is incorporated by reference in this prospectus,
and the information set forth in Item 2 of the Quarterly Report,
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations," and in Item 1 of the Quarterly Report, "Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements."
o Consolidated Financial Statements of Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. and
subsidiaries for the year ended October 31, 2002, ten-month period ended
October 31, 2001 and the year ended December 31, 2000 in our Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2002 (the "Annual Report"),
which has been delivered with and is incorporated by reference in this
prospectus, and the information set forth in Item 7 of the Annual Report,
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations," and in Item 8 of the Annual Report, "Financial Statements and
Supplementary Data."
The information for the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998 is for
that of U.S. Rubber Reclaiming only, the accounting acquirer in the reverse
merger further described in Items 7 and 8 of the Annual Report.
Selected Consolidated Financial Data
(Amounts in thousands, except per share data)
Operating Data, as restated
Nine Months Ended July 31,
-----------------------------------------
2003 2002
-----------------------------------------
(unaudited) (unaudited)
-----------------------------------------
Net sales $ 42,802 $ 42,302
Income (loss) from operations (872) 1,189
Discontinued operations, net of tax (49) (1,085)
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - (2,015)
Net loss (2,779) (4,404)
Basic and diluted loss per share:
From continuing operations (0.07) (0.03)
Discontinued operations (0.00) (0.03)
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle (0.00) (0.05)
Net loss per share (0.07) (0.11)
Selected Consolidated Financial Data
(Amounts in thousands, except per share data)
Operating Data, as restated
Year Ended Ten Months Ended
October 31, October 31, Year Ended December 31,
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------
2002 2001 2000 1999 1998
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net sales $57,274 $24,689 $12,583 $11,439 $12,575
Income from operations 449 981 184 413 107
Discontinued operations, net of tax (1,040) (3,376) - - -
Cumulative effect of change in
accounting principle (2,015) - - - -
Net income (loss) (6,330) (4,395) 48 216 74
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per
share:
From continuing operations (.09) (.04) - - -
Discontinued operations (.03) (.13) - - -
Cumulative effect of change in
accounting principle (.06) - - - -
Net income (loss) per share (.18) (.17) - - -
Balance Sheet Data
July 31, October 31, October 31, December 31,
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(unaudited)
-------------
Working capital (deficit) $ 1,192 $ 1,591 $ (2,528) $ 864 $ 1,896 $ 2,864
Total assets 46,125 45,923 48,850 9,633 11,633 11,914
Long-term debt, including current
portion and mandatory redeemable
preferred stock 41,686 36,464 35,382 3,846 5,914 6,365
Stockholders' equity (deficit) (1,836) (689) 1,331 4,939 4,890 4,674
No dividends have been declared or paid in any period presented.
NET PERCEPTIONS
The selected historical financial data of Net Perceptions in the tables
below should be read in conjunction with:
o the audited financial statements (the "Net Perceptions Financial
Statements") and the notes to the Net Perceptions Financial Statements and
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations," which are included in Net Perceptions's Annual Report on Form
10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2002 (the "Net Perceptions
Annual Report") incorporated by reference in this prospectus; and
o the unaudited financial statements and the notes to the Net Perceptions
Financial Statements and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations," which are included in Net
Perceptions's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September
30, 2003 incorporated by reference in this prospectus.
The statement of operations data for each of the years in the periods ended
December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, and the balance sheet data at December 31,
2002 and 2001, were derived by Net Perceptions from the Net Perceptions
Financial Statements. The statement of operations data for the years ended
December 31, 1999 and 1998 and the balance sheet data at December 31, 2000, 1999
and 1998 were derived by Net Perceptions from audited financial statements not
included in the Net Perceptions Annual Report, and were reclassified by Net
Perceptions to conform with current period presentation relating to reimbursable
expenses that were previously recorded net to cost of revenue. See "Where Can I
Find More Information?" on page 58 for information on where such documents are
available. You should read this summary selected financial information together
with the Net Perceptions Financial Statements and notes thereto.
Selected Consolidated Financial Data1
(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)
Nine Months Ended Year Ended December 31,
September 30
-------------------------------------------------------------
2003 2002 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998
------------ ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------- ----------- -----------
(unaudited)
Statement of Operations Data
Revenues:
Product $ 576 $ 1,558 $ 1,703 $2,979 $25,087 $11,408 $3,955
Service and maintenance 1,391 2,793 3,541 7,535 12,342 3,922 542
------------ ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total revenues 1,967 4,351 5,244 10,514 37,429 15,330 4,497
------------ ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Cost of revenues:
Product 8 254 292 943 1,807 286 52
Service and maintenance 635 1,782 2,101 5,143 11,532 2,936 393
------------ ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total cost of revenues 643 2,036 2,393 6,086 13,339 3,222 445
------------ ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Gross margin 1,324 2,315 2,851 4,428 24,090 12,108 4,052
------------ ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Operating expenses:
Sales and marketing 1,344 3,610 4,550 15,215 25,589 12,883 5,238
Research and development 1,616 4,797 5,933 10,572 19,354 8,625 2,372
General and administrative 1,280 2,191 2,819 6,198 11,146 4,005 1,474
Lease abandonment expense - 225 1,250 - -
Restructuring related charges2 2,251 768 768 15,551 - - -
Amortization of intangibles - 83 110 9,650 25,394 - -
Impairment of goodwill and other
intangibles3 - - 6,546 75,298 - - -
------------ ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total operating expenses 6,491 11,449 20,726 132,709 82,733 25,513 9,084
------------ ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Loss from operations (5,167) (9,134) (17,875) (128,281) (58,643) (13,405) (5,032)
Other income, net 839 698 1,141 4,483 5,096 1,366 64
Net loss $ (4,328) $ (8,436) $(16,734) $(123,798) $(53,547) $(12,039) $(4,968)
---------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------
Basic and diluted net loss per share $(0.06) $(0.02) $(0.61) $(4.59) $(2.12) $(0.78) $(1.40)
------------ ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Shares used in computing basic and
diluted net loss per share 27,735 27,211 27,216 26,951 25,209 15,402 3,546
------------ ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------- ----------- -----------
1 The selected consolidated financial data for the years ended December 31,
2002, 2001 and 2000 include the effects of the acquisition of Knowledge
Discovery One, Inc. ("KD1") in February 2000, which was accounted for under
the purchase method of accounting. See Note 4 to the Net Perceptions
Financial Statements.
2 In 2001, Net Perceptions incurred a restructuring related charge of $15.6
million, consisting of charges relating to facility consolidation and
employee terminations, losses and estimated losses on the disposal of
assets and other restructuring related charges. In 2002, Net Perceptions
incurred a restructuring related charge of $768,000 consisting primarily of
charges relating to employee terminations. See Note 6 to the Net
Perceptions Financial Statements.
3 At March 31, 2001, Net Perceptions performed an impairment assessment of
the goodwill and other intangible assets recorded in connection with the
acquisition of KD1. As a result of its review, Net Perceptions recorded a
$75.3 million impairment charge to reduce goodwill and other intangible
assets to their estimated fair values. At December 31, 2002, Net
Perceptions performed an additional impairment assessment of the remaining
goodwill and other intangible assets recorded in connection with the
acquisition of KD1. As a result of its review, Net Perceptions recorded a
$6.5 million impairment charge to reduce goodwill and other intangible
assets to zero value. See Note 4 to the Net Perceptions Financial
Statements.
December 31,
September 30 -------------------------------------------------------------
2003 2002 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998
------------ ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------- ----------- -----------
(unaudited)
Balance Sheet Data
Cash, cash equivalents, and short-term
investments $12,187 $62,959 $73,605 $68,880 $36,854 $972
Working capital 12,174 57,031 64,321 66,364 37,372 468
Total assets 13,558 65,796 88,878 211,834 58,748 5,637
Long-term liabilities, net of current
portion - 510 577 1,951 707 538
Redeemable preferred stock - - - - 650
-
Total stockholders' equity 12,600 58,342 75,407 198,518 48,388 421
SELECTED UNAUDITED CONDENSED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL DATA
The following selected unaudited condensed pro forma financial information
combines the historical balance sheet data and statements of operations data of
Obsidian Enterprises and Net Perceptions after the transaction. The financial
information also provides selected unaudited pro forma financial data on the
basis of the continuation and non-continuation of Net Perceptions's operations.
The unaudited condensed pro forma combined balance sheet data at July 31, 2003
reflects Obsidian Enterprises purchase of substantially all of Net Perceptions's
common stock using the purchase method of accounting and assumes the acquisition
was consummated as of July 31, 2003. The following unaudited condensed pro forma
combined statements of operations for nine months ended July 31, 2003 and the
year ended October 31, 2002 give effect to the acquisition of Net Perceptions as
if it occurred at the beginning of the periods presented. The weighted average
shares outstanding reflect the issuance of an estimated 1,149,374 shares
adjusted for the reverse split at the closing of the transaction.
The pro forma adjustments necessary to fairly present the unaudited
condensed pro forma combined financial data have been made based on available
information and in the opinion of Obsidian Enterprises' management are
reasonable. The following financial information should be read in conjunction
with the "Unaudited Condensed Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements" on page
F-1.
Because no determination has been made by Obsidian's management to either
continue operating the remaining business of Net Perceptions or to dispose of
it, two separate pro forma presentations of operating data have been prepared.
Because Obsidian has not been able to perform any due diligence regarding the
fair value of Net Perceptions's operating assets, the pro forma balance sheets
under either course of action are not materially different at this time.
Therefore, only one pro forma balance sheet has been presented. However, upon
completing such due diligence and determining the value of such operating
assets, the pro forma balance sheets for either course of action will most
likely be materially different. Furthermore, once the final determination is
made of the fair values acquired and the final purchase price allocation is
made, the pro forma operating data as presented will change and such change
could be material.
Selected Unaudited Condensed Pro Forma Financial Data Assuming
Continuation of Net Perceptions's Business
(in thousands except per share data)
Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Operations Data
Nine Months Ended Year Ended
July 31, 2003 October 31, 2002
------------------------ ------------------------
Net Sales $ 44,769 $ 62,518
Cost of Sales 38,088 50,234
--------- ----------
Gross Profit 6,681 12,284
Expenses 15,022 32,838
--------- ----------
Loss from continuing operations before tax (8,341) (20,554)
Tax benefit 771 33
Loss from continuing operations $ (7,570) $ (20,521)
========== ==========
Loss per share from continuing operations
Basic and diluted $ (1.82) $ (5.85)
========== ==========
Weighted average common shares outstanding 4,003 3,499
========== ==========
Pro Forma
July 31, 2003 October 31, 2002
------------------ ---------------------
Earnings per share footnote presentation:
Loss from continuing operations $ (7,570) $ (20,521)
Change in fair value of mandatory redeemable preferred stock 275 35
---------- ---------
Loss attributable to common shareholders from
continuing operations $ (7,295) $ (20,486)
Weighted average shares 4,003 3,499
Loss per share from continuing operations
Basic and diluted $ (1.82) $ (5.85)
Selected Unaudited Condensed Pro Forma Financial Data Assuming No Continuation
of Net Perceptions Business
(in thousands except per share data
Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Operations Data
Nine Months Ended Year Ended
July 31, 2003 October 31, 2002
---------------------- --------------------
Net Sales $ 42,802 $ 57,274
Cost of Sales 37,445 47,841
--------- --------
Gross Profit 5,357 9,433
Operating expenses 9,190 13,013
--------- --------
Loss from continuing operations before tax (3,833) (3,580)
Tax benefit $ 771 $ 33
--------- --------
Loss from continuing operations $ (3,062) $ (3,547)
--------- --------
Loss per share from continuing operations
Basic and diluted (0.70) (1.00)
========= ========
Weighted average common shares outstanding 4,003 3,499
========= ========
Pro Forma
July 31, 2003 October 31, 2002
------------------- ----------------------
Earnings per share footnote presentation:
Loss from continuing operations $ (3,062) $(3,547)
Change in fair value of mandatory redeemable preferred stock 275 35
---------- -------
Loss attributable to common shareholders from
continuing operations $ (2,787) $(3,512)
Weighted average shares 4,003 3,499
Loss per share from continuing operations
$ (0.70) $ (1.00)
Basic and diluted
Unaudited Pro Forma Balance Sheet
July 31, 2003
---------------------
Working Capital $ 12,177
Total Assets 63,812
Total Liabilities and Mandatory Redeemable Stock 48,919
Total Equity 14,893
COMPARATIVE UNAUDITED PER SHARE DATA
Set forth below is net income and book value per common share amounts for
Obsidian Enterprises and Net Perceptions on a historical basis and for Obsidian
Enterprises and Net Perceptions on an unaudited pro forma combined basis after
giving effect to the transaction.
The following information should be read in conjunction with (1) the
separate historical financial statements (including the unaudited condensed
financial data for the nine months ended July 31, 2003 for Obsidian Enterprises
and the nine months ended September 30, 2003 for Net Perceptions and related
notes of Obsidian Enterprises and Net Perceptions included in this prospectus
and (2) the unaudited condensed pro forma combined financial information and
related notes commencing on Page F-1 of this prospectus and the selected
consolidated financial data of each of Obsidian Enterprises and Net Perceptions
commencing on pages 16 and 18, respectively, of this prospectus.
The pro forma information is presented for illustrative purposes only, and
is not necessarily indicative of the operating results or financial position
that would have occurred if the transaction had been completed as of the
beginning of the earliest period presented, nor is it necessarily indicative of
the future operating results or financial position of the combined companies.
Comparative Unaudited Per Share Data
Year Ended Nine Months Ended
October 31, 2002 July 31, 2003
--------------------- ------------------------
Historical:
Obsidian Enterprises data, per common share
Loss attributable to common shareholders from continuing
operations -basic and diluted $ (0.09) $(0.07)
Book value at end of period $ (0.02) $(0.05)
Net Perceptions data, per common share
Net loss - basic and diluted $ (0.61) $(0.16)
Book value at end of period $ 2.13 $ 0.45
Unaudited pro forma assuming continuation of Net Perceptions's
business
Obsidian Enterprises and Net Perceptions combined
data, pro forma per common share
Loss from continuing operations - basic and diluted (A) $ (5.85) $(1.82)
Book Value at July 31, 2003 (B) - $ 3.72
Unaudited pro forma assuming no continuation of Net Perception business
Obsidian Enterprises and Net Perceptions combined
data, pro forma per common share
Loss from continuing operations - basic and diluted (C) $ (1.00) $(0.59)
Book Value at July 31, 2003 (B) - 3.72
(A) Pro forma loss per share amounts from continuing operations are based
on the combined historical results of Obsidian and Net Perceptions as well as
pro forma adjustments. Pro forma basic and diluted shares used in the
calculations are Obsidian historical weighted average shares outstanding plus
Obsidian weighted average Series C and Series D preferred shares outstanding on
an as if converted basis plus the pro forma shares assumed to be issued in the
transaction. In addition, all shares in the pro forma calculations have been
adjusted for the Obsidian's reverse split of one new share for each fifty shares
held.
(B) Pro forma book value per common share is computed by dividing the pro
forma shareholders' equity at July 31, 2003 by the pro forma number of common
shares outstanding at July 31, 2003.
(C) This presentation assumes that effective with the acquisition of Net
Perception, Obsidian would no longer operate the ongoing business of Net
Perception. Accordingly the pro forma loss per share amounts are based on the
historical results of Obsidian with pro forma adjustments and include only a
portion of the interest income amounts of Net Perception related to its
investment portfolio. Pro forma basic and diluted shares used in the
calculations are Obsidian historical weighted average shares outstanding plus
Obsidian weighted average Series C and Series D preferred shares outstanding on
an as if converted basis plus the pro forma shares assumed to be issued in the
transaction. In addition, all shares in the pro forma calculations have been
adjusted for the Obsidian's reverse split of one new share for each fifty shares
held.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This prospectus and the documents incorporated by reference in this
prospectus contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section
27A of the Securities Act of 1933. Forward-looking statements are based on
currently available competitive, financial and economic data and management's
views and assumptions regarding future events. Such statements include, but are
not limited to (1) statements about the benefits of the Net Perceptions
acquisition; (2) statements with respect to our plans, objectives, expectations
and intentions and other statements that are not historical facts; and (3) other
statements identified by words such as "believes," "expects," "anticipates,"
"estimates," "intends," "plans," "targets," "projects" and other similar
expressions. Forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain. Because those
statements are based on expectations and not historical facts, actual results
may differ materially from those projected in the particular statements.
Important factors that could cause future results to differ include, but
are not limited to, those listed under "Risk Factors" beginning on page 25 and
the following:
o The board of directors of Net Perceptions may fail to recommend the
proposed merger;
o Net Perceptions's shareholders may fail to approve the proposed
merger;
o Competitive pressures may increase significantly and may have an
effect on pricing, spending, third-party relationships and revenues;
o The U.S. legal and regulatory framework may change;
o Adverse conditions in the stock market, the public debt market and
other capital markets (including changes in interest rate conditions)
may adversely affect the combined company's activities;
o The availability of liquidity under our existing lines of credit may
be limited;
o Integration of other acquired or merged businesses may be difficult,
time-consuming or more costly than expected;
o We may not be able to retain key management and employees;
o We may not be able to meet demand at competitive prices in our coach
leasing segment and our trailer and related transportation equipment
manufacturing segment;
o We may not be able to successfully develop alternative sources of raw
materials in our butyl rubber reclaiming segment; and
o We may not be able to maintain our relationships with certain
significant customers.
These and other matters are difficult to predict, and many are beyond our
control, including those we discuss in this prospectus and our filings with the
SEC. Accordingly, you should not rely on the accuracy of predictions contained
in forward-looking statements. These statements speak only as of the date of
this prospectus or, in the case of documents incorporated by reference, the date
of those documents. We undertake no obligation to update these statements in the
future.
RISK FACTORS
You should carefully read this prospectus as well as the other information
included in or incorporated by reference into this prospectus before deciding
whether to tender shares of Net Perceptions common stock for exchange pursuant
to the exchange offer. You should, in particular, read and consider the
following risk factors, including the risks associated with our business and Net
Perceptions's business, because these risks will also affect the combined
businesses should the proposed merger be completed. Additional risks and
uncertainties not presently known to us or Net Perceptions or that we currently
believe to be immaterial may also adversely affect us.
RISKS RELATED TO THE EXCHANGE OFFER AND THE MERGER
Net Perceptions may have liabilities that are not fully reflected on its balance
sheet.
On November 2, 2001, Timothy J. Fox filed a purported class action lawsuit
against Net Perceptions, FleetBoston Robertson Stephens, Inc., the lead
underwriter of Net Perceptions's April 1999 initial public offering, several
other underwriters who participated in Net Perceptions's initial public
offering, Steven J. Snyder, Net Perceptions's then president and chief executive
officer, and Thomas M. Donnelly, Net Perceptions's then chief financial officer
and currently its president and chief financial officer. The lawsuit was filed
in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and
has been assigned to the judge who is also the pretrial coordinating judge for
substantially similar lawsuits involving more than 300 other issuers. An amended
class action complaint, captioned In re Net Perceptions, Inc. Initial Public
Offering Securities Litigation, 01 Cit. 9675 (SAS), was filed on April 22, 2002,
expanding the basis for the action to include allegations relating to Net
Perceptions's March 2000 follow-on public offering in addition to those relating
to our initial public offering.
The amended complaint generally alleges that the defendants violated
federal securities laws by not disclosing certain actions taken by the
underwriter defendants in connection with Net Perceptions's initial public
offering and its follow-on public offering. The amended complaint alleges
specifically that the underwriter defendants, with Net Perceptions's direct
participation and agreement and without disclosure thereof, conspired to and did
raise and increase their underwriters' compensation and the market prices of Net
Perceptions common stock following Net Perceptions's initial public offering and
in its follow-on public offering by requiring their customers, in exchange for
receiving allocations of shares of Net Perceptions common stock sold in its
initial public offering, to pay excessive commissions on transactions in other
securities, to purchase additional shares of Net Perceptions's common stock in
the initial public offering aftermarket at pre-determined prices above the
initial public offering price, and to purchase shares of Net Perceptions's
common stock in its follow-on public offering. The amended complaint seeks
unspecified monetary damages and certification of a plaintiff class consisting
of all persons who acquired Net Perceptions common stock from April 22, 1999,
through December 6, 2000. The plaintiffs have since agreed to dismiss the claims
against Mr. Snyder and Mr. Donnelly without prejudice, in return for their
agreement to toll any statute of limitations applicable to those claims; and
those claims have been dismissed without prejudice. On July 15, 2002, all of the
issuer defendants filed a joint motion to dismiss the plaintiffs' claims in all
of the related cases. On February 19, 2003, the Court ruled against the Net
Perceptions on this motion.
A special committee of the board of directors of Net Perceptions has
authorized the company to negotiate a settlement of the pending claims
substantially consistent with a memorandum of understanding negotiated among
class plaintiffs, issuer defendants and their insurers. Any such settlement
would be subject to approval by the court.
Net Perceptions has stated that it believes that the allegations against it
are without merit. However, as this litigation is in an initial stage, we are
unable to predict its outcome or its ultimate effect, if any, on Net
Perceptions's financial condition or the financial condition of the combined
companies following the exchange offer and proposed merger.
On October 29, 2003, a class action lawsuit was filed against Net
Perceptions, its current directors and unnamed defendants in the District Court,
Fourth Judicial District, of the State Of Minnesota, County of Hennepin
captioned Don Blakstad, on Behalf of Himself and All others Similarly Situated,
vs. Net Perceptions, Inc., John F. Kennedy, Ann L. Winblad, John T. Riedl and
Does 1-25, inclusive, File No. 03-17820. The complaint alleges, among other
things, that defendants breached their fiduciary duties of loyalty, due care,
independence, good faith and fair dealing and seeks to enjoin the proposed
liquidation of Net Perceptions and to recover reasonable attorneys' and experts'
fees. Net Perceptions has stated that the defendants believe that the claims in
the lawsuit are without merit and intend to vigorously defend them. Any costs
and expenses paid by Net Perceptions in connection with, or as a result of, this
lawsuit may adversely affect Net Perceptions's financial condition or the
financial condition of the combined companies following the exchange offer and
proposed merger.
The exchange offer may reduce the liquidity of Net Perceptions common stock and
may result in its delisting from the Nasdaq National Market.
The tender of shares of Net Perceptions common stock pursuant to the
exchange offer will reduce the number of holders of shares of Net Perceptions
common stock and the number of shares of Net Perceptions common stock that might
otherwise trade publicly, which could adversely affect the liquidity and market
value of the remaining shares of Net Perceptions common stock held by the
public. Shares of Net Perceptions common stock are listed on the Nasdaq National
Market. The minimum bid price for shares of Net Perceptions has been less than
$1 since its $1.50 per share distribution to shareholders as of September 3,
2003. As a result, Net Perceptions is unlikely to meet the requirements for
continued inclusion on Nasdaq. Our acquisition of shares of Net Perceptions in
the exchange offer is likely to reduce the number of round lot holders of Net
Perceptions shares and might reduce that number below 300, the minimum for
continued listing on the Nasdaq SmallCap market.
Resales of our common stock following the offer to exchange may cause the market
price of our stock to fall.
We currently have Series C and Series D preferred stock outstanding.
Immediately following the 1 for 50 reverse stock split which will be effective
February 16, 2004, we anticipate that all of the Series C and Series D preferred
stock will be converted into our common stock. This will increase the shares of
our common stock outstanding by approximately 4 times from approximately 720,000
to approximately 2,830,000 on a post-reverse split basis (on a pre-reverse split
basis from approximately 36.0 million to approximately 141.6 million). The
majority of the shares of our common stock that will be issued on that
conversion will be subject to sale by the holders under Rule 144. The
availability of these shares for sale together with the shares issued in
exchange for the Net Perceptions common stock could have the effect of
depressing the market price for our common stock.
The trading price of our common stock may be affected by factors different from
those affecting the price of Net Perceptions common stock.
Upon completion of the exchange offer and the proposed merger, holders of
Net Perceptions common stock will become holders of our common stock. Our
business differs from that of Net Perceptions, and our results of operations, as
well as the trading price of our common stock, may be affected by factors
different from those affecting Net Perceptions's results of operations and the
price of Net Perceptions common stock.
Actions by the current board of directors and management of Net Perceptions
could substantially increase the costs of the contemplated transactions.
If the current board of directors of Net Perceptions does not voluntarily
take action to satisfy the Rights Condition and the Section 203 Condition, our
options would be to abandon the transaction or to request the Delaware Chancery
Court to mandate that action. That litigation would be expensive for us and for
Net Perceptions and the result would be uncertain.
Further, if we are successful in acquiring 51% or more of the Net
Perceptions common stock in the exchange offer, unless the members of the
current board of directors propose the merger, we would be required to remove
the directors.
These factors and other actions that the current board of directors and
management of Net Perceptions may take could substantially increase the cost to
us of the transaction and could incur substantial expense for Net Perceptions.
Two of the subsidiaries had obtained waivers or otherwise cured the
covenant violations by the close of our fiscal year. We anticipate that we will
resolve the covenant violations for the remaining subsidiary with its lender in
the near future.
RISK FACTORS RELATED TO OUR BUSINESS
We may not be able to obtain credit to operate our business.
We cannot be certain that we will have sufficient liquidity available under
existing lines of credit. Four of our subsidiaries were acquired in highly
leveraged transactions. During the year ended October 31, 2003 three of our
subsidiaries were in violation of certain requirements and covenants in their
debt agreements relating to maintenance of specified minimum ratios and levels
of earnings to funded debt and fixed charge coverage. These violations were
waived or cured by amendment as of July 31, 2003. We cannot be certain whether
we will be able to meet the covenant requirements contained in the debt
agreements. Although we have been able to obtain waivers of previous violations,
we cannot be certain that we will be able to obtain waivers of such covenants if
waivers are needed in the future.
We have relied on borrowing from related parties for a portion of our
working capital needs. There is no assurance that the related parties will
continue to have the capacity to meet those needs.
There is no assurance that lenders will continue to lend to us. Lenders'
criteria for loans change and, if there is a general tightening of credit
standards, we may not qualify for credit. Further, if our financial performance
deteriorates from the manner in which our various operations have historically
performed, our lenders may declare defaults and refuse to advance funds under
revolving credit lines. Under these circumstances we may not be able to obtain
credit on any terms.
An increase in interest rates would increase our interest expense.
We are exposed to market risk related to changes in interest rates on our
debt. Approximately 54% of our primary debt at July 31, 2003, bore interest at a
variable rate. An interest rate increase of one percentage point would increase
our interest expense over a one-year period by approximately $222,000 at current
debt levels.
Strong competition may adversely affect our business prospects, financial
condition and results of operations.
We face strong competitors in our coach leasing segment and our trailer and
related transportation equipment manufacturing segment. Our coach leasing
business competes with a number of other companies that lease luxury coaches.
Our success in the coach leasing segment is dependent upon our ability to meet
demand and match the quality and amenities sought after by our target market at
competitive prices. Our trailer and related transportation equipment
manufacturing segment competes with a number of companies, including a number
who are much larger than us and have equal or greater technical and financial
resources.
Our butyl rubber reclaiming operations may be adversely affected if we are
unable to develop alternative sources of raw materials, or if the price of crude
oil falls.
Our butyl rubber reclaiming segment is highly dependent upon the
availability of raw materials. We are facing increased competition for raw
materials from foreign manufacturers as the supply of the scrap butyl rubber
from inner tubes continues to decline. The success of this segment will depend
in large measure upon our ability to successfully develop alternative sources of
raw materials. The demand for butyl rubber by some of our customers also is
closely tied to the price of crude oil, with demand falling as the price of
crude oil falls.
Decreases in consumer spending during recessionary periods and unavailability of
quality drivers may adversely affect our coach leasing operations.
Our coach leasing segment leases luxury coaches primarily to performers in
the entertainment industry. This segment is highly dependent upon the state of
the general economy and its effect on entertainment spending. Consumer spending
on entertainment tends to decline during recessionary periods when disposable
income is low. The availability of quality contract drivers is another factor
that affects the success of the coach leasing segment. Although customers
generally are responsible for engaging their own drivers, the Company assists
customers by suggesting drivers with whom the Company has had experience.
Competative factors in the trailer business may require continued discounting.
During the year ended October 31, 2003, we were forced to offer discounts
and other incentives to compete for the sales of trailers which adversely
affected our financial results for 2003. While we do not believe that we will be
required to offer incentives at the same level in our current fiscal year, there
is no assurance that the incentives will not be required.
The economic condition of the telecommunications industry and the bankruptcy of
a significant customer has adversely affected our trailer and related
transportation equipment manufacturing operations.
A majority of the truck bodies manufactured by the Company have
historically been used in the telecommunications industry. The success of the
Company's trailer and related transportation equipment manufacturing segment is
dependent upon overall economic conditions and in particular on the state of the
telecommunications industry. Slightly more than one half of the Company's
revenue from the manufacture of service truck bodies, which is part of the
Company's trailer and related transportation equipment manufacturing segment,
was derived from a single customer who is in bankruptcy and has sold its
manufacturing assets to another firm. The loss of this customer has had a
material adverse effect on our truck body business.
We may be unable to retain personnel who are key to our businesses.
The success of our operations is dependent on, among other things, our
ability to attract and retain highly qualified professional personnel.
Competition for key personnel in the various localities and business segments in
which we operate is intense. Our ability to attract and retain key personnel, in
particular senior officers, is dependent on a number of factors, including
prevailing market conditions and compensation packages offered by companies
competing for the same talent.
We may not be successful in executing on our acquisition strategy.
A key element of our business plan is the acquisition of additional
businesses. There is no assurance that businesses will be available for sale at
attractive prices and, once acquired, there is no assurance that we will be
successful in integrating those businesses into our operations and operating
them on a profitable basis.
We may not be successful in being included on the NASDAQ SmallCap Market
While we plan to apply for initial inclusion of our common stock on the
NASDAQ SmallCap Market following the exchange and believe that we satisfy the
conditions for initial inclusion, Nasdaq exercises discretion when determining
whether to include a security in its markets and there is no assurance that
Nasdaq will approve our listing application.
BACKGROUND OF THE EXCHANGE OFFER
From time to time during the past few years, we have considered expanding
our operations through acquisitions of other companies.
During the period from approximately February 2003 through October 15,
2003, and prior to their engagement by us, our strategic advisor had held
various meetings and conversations with and submitted various proposal to Net
Perceptions and its legal and its former financial advisors regarding a possible
strategic transaction. Net Perception's either did not respond to or rejected
each of these proposals. During this period, one of our affiliates held
conversations with our strategic advisor regarding providing financing for our
strategic advisor to complete a transaction with Net Perceptions.
On October 21, 2003, Net Perceptions announced its proposed plan of
liquidation. On November 10, 2003, we held conversations with our strategic
advisor regarding Net Perceptions and engaged them as our strategic advisor on
November 12, 2003.
On November 13, 2003, we sent a letter to the board of directors of Net
Perceptions indicating our interest in a business combination between Obsidian
Enterprises and Net Perceptions. We issued a press release with the text of the
letter and filed the press release with the SEC to ensure that Net Perceptions's
shareholders were aware of the offer.
During the period from November 13, 2003 through November 24, 2003, we
contacted Net Perceptions and were advised that the Board of Directors of Net
Perceptions was unable to evaluate our proposal until, among other things, they
had engaged a financial advisor. In an effort to advance the negotiations, our
Chief Executive Officer proposed meeting with Net Perception's President.
On November 24, 2003, our Chairman met with the President of Net
Perceptions and their financial advisor to discuss our interest and proposed
terms for a transaction.
During the period from November 24, 2003 through November 30, 2003, our
legal and strategic advisors held various conversations with Net Perceptions
legal and financial advisors in an effort to confirm the Net Perception's Board
of Directors willingness to proceed with a transaction and to negotiate a
mutually acceptable transaction structure and definitive documentation.
Initially, based on a series of conversations with Net Perception's President
and financial advisor, we understood that Net Perception's Board of Directors
were prepared to accept an offer that would provide Net Perception's
shareholders the opportunity to receive cash in the range of approximately $0.40
per share or, provided that the cash alternative was also available to the Net
Perception shareholders, the opportunity to alternatively receive a combination
of cash and our stock or just our stock. Our advisors confirmed orally to Net
Perceptions advisors on November 30, 2003, that we were prepared to accept these
pricing terms and that we desired to proceed to definitive documentation.
During the period from November 25, 2003 through December 8, 2003, our
advisors and Net Perceptions advisors held various conversations. Net
Perception's legal and financial advisors stated to our advisors that in order
to proceed with a transaction, Net Perceptions would require that (i) we escrow
the full amount of the potential transaction value in cash (approximately $11.2
million) with an acceptable third party and that a traditional financing
commitment or a transaction structure we viewed as more customary and providing
reasonable certainty as to funding were not acceptable and (ii) that closure of
the transaction be a certainty and there be no conditions to closing. Our
advisors attempted to negotiate what we viewed as customary and reasonable
resolution of these issues, but we were advised by Net Perceptions advisors that
various solutions proposed by us were not acceptable to the Net Perception's
Board of Directors.
On December 8, 2003, we sent another letter to the board of directors of
Net Perceptions with a revised proposal to enter a business combination with Net
Perceptions in which we would exchange two shares of our common stock for each
share of Net Perceptions common stock. We issued a press release with the text
of the letter and filed the press release with the SEC to ensure that Net
Perceptions's shareholders were aware of the offer.
After delivering this letter on December 8, 2003, our advisors were again
informed by Net Perceptions advisors that the solutions we proposed to address
Net Perception's concerns regarding financing and certainty of transaction
closure were not acceptable to the Net Perception's Board of Directors.
On December 11, 2003, we issued a press release announcing our plan to make
our offer for shares of Net Perceptions common stock directly to Net
Perceptions's shareholders.
REASONS FOR THE EXCHANGE OFFER
We believe that the proposed combination of Net Perceptions and Obsidian
Enterprises presents the opportunity to expand our shareholder base and increase
our stockholders' equity. The proposed merger will further expand our
shareholder base and further increase our stockholders' equity and will also
provide us with cash for our operations and additional possible acquisitions.
We believe that the combination of Net Perceptions and Obsidian Enterprises
is in our best interest and in the best interest of our shareholders, Net
Perceptions and its shareholders. Accordingly, our board of directors
unanimously approved the exchange offer and the proposed merger. In reaching its
decision, our board of directors consulted with our management, legal counsel
and strategic advisors. Our board of directors considered a number of factors,
to which relative weights were not assigned, including the following:
o The increase in our stockholders' equity as a result of the proposed
transaction and the effect of that increase on our ability to have our
common stock included for trading on the NASDAQ SmallCap Market,
o The best interests of Obsidian Enterprises, our subsidiaries and our
shareholders including, among other things, the anticipated financial
strength of the combined company,
o The business, operations, financial condition and earnings of Obsidian
Enterprises and Net Perceptions on an historical and a prospective
basis and of the combined company on a pro forma basis, including the
business of the resulting entity and each company's historical stock
performance,
o The financial condition and prospects of Obsidian Enterprises and Net
Perceptions, including but not limited to results of operations,
o Our board's review of Net Perceptions's financial condition,
o The consideration to be paid to Net Perceptions shareholders in
relation to the cash and cash equivalents held by Net Perceptions and
the liabilities of Net Perceptions,
o The consideration to be paid to Net Perceptions shareholders in
relation to the uncertain amount and timing of payment to Net
Perceptions shareholders under the Plan of Liquidation.
In making its determination, our board of directors did not ascribe any
relative or specific weights to the factors that it considered. The foregoing
discussion of the factors considered by our board of directors is not intended
to be exhaustive, but it does include the material factors considered by the
board.
The only information available to us regarding Net Perceptions is
information that they have made publicly available. If we conduct due diligence,
our beliefs about the benefits of the exchange offer and the proposed merger may
change.
There are numerous factors, other than the exchange offer and the proposed
merger, that could cause our results of operations, including, among other
things, earnings per share, to increase or decrease after the exchange offer and
proposed merger. Therefore, we cannot assure you that the anticipated benefits
of the combination of Obsidian Enterprises and Net Perceptions discussed in the
previous paragraphs will happen. You should read "Risk Factors" beginning on
page 25 and "Forward-Looking Statements" beginning on page 24 for a discussion
of some of the other factors that could affect our future operations and
financial condition.
PLANS FOR NET PERCEPTIONS AFTER THE PROPOSED MERGER
We are making the exchange offer in order to acquire voting control of, and
ultimately the entire equity interest in, Net Perceptions. We intend to then
have Net Perceptions merge with our subsidiary as soon as possible after
completion of the exchange offer. The purpose of the proposed merger would be to
acquire all shares of Net Perceptions common stock not exchanged in the exchange
offer. In the proposed merger, each then-outstanding share of Net Perceptions
common stock would be converted into the same consideration per Net Perceptions
share offered in the exchange offer, subject to dissenters' appraisal rights
under Delaware law and subject to proration.
We have not determined whether we will continue to operate the remaining
business of Net Perceptions or whether we would seek to sell that business or
its assets. We plan to use the cash remaining in Net Perceptions after the
merger to fund additional possible acquisitions and for working capital
purposes.
THE EXCHANGE OFFER
GENERAL
We are making the exchange offer in order to acquire voting control of, and
ultimately the entire equity interest in, Net Perceptions. We intend to then
have Net Perceptions merge with our subsidiary as soon as possible after
completion of the exchange offer. The purpose of the proposed merger would be to
acquire all shares of Net Perceptions common stock not exchanged in the exchange
offer. In the proposed merger, each then-outstanding share of Net Perceptions
common stock, except for treasury shares of Net Perceptions and shares
beneficially owned directly or indirectly by us for our own account, would be
converted into the same consideration per Net Perceptions share offered in this
exchange offer, subject to dissenters' appraisal rights under Delaware law. If
we obtain all of the shares of Net Perceptions pursuant to our exchange offer,
former shareholders of Net Perceptions would own approximately 29% of the shares
of common stock of Obsidian Enterprises.
Our obligation to exchange the consideration described in this prospectus
for shares of Net Perceptions common stock pursuant to the exchange offer is
subject to the conditions referred to under "Conditions to the Exchange Offer"
in this prospectus.
Net Perceptions shareholders who tender shares of Net Perceptions common
stock pursuant to the exchange offer will not be obligated to pay any charges or
expenses of the exchange agent. We, or another party on our behalf, will pay
transfer taxes on the exchange of Net Perceptions common stock pursuant to our
exchange offer unless we disclose otherwise in the instructions to the letter of
transmittal.
Our offer to acquire Net Perceptions common stock is also an offer to
acquire the preferred stock purchase rights associated with the Net Perceptions
common stock, as described in the Net Perceptions Rights Agreement. All
references to the shares of Net Perceptions common stock include the associated
preferred stock purchase rights under the Net Perceptions Rights Agreement,
unless we indicate otherwise. In addition, all references to the preferred stock
purchase rights include the benefits to holders of those rights pursuant to the
Net Perceptions Rights Agreement, including the right to receive any payment due
upon redemption of those rights. The procedure for tendering your share purchase
rights is described below under "Procedure for Tendering -- Share Purchase
Rights."
Currently, we are not offering, as part of the exchange offer, to purchase
any Net Perceptions options outstanding and we will not accept tenders of Net
Perceptions options. Holders of exercisable Net Perceptions options who wish to
participate in the exchange offer may exercise their options and purchase shares
of Net Perceptions common stock and then tender the shares in accordance with
the exchange offer. In addition, we do not anticipate converting options to
purchase Net Perceptions common stock into options to purchase our common stock.
The expected treatment of options is subject to change. In particular, if the
transaction becomes negotiated, our anticipated treatment of Net Perceptions
options may change. If you hold any options to purchase Net Perceptions common
stock pursuant to any Net Perceptions Equity Stock Compensation Plan, the terms
of that plan will govern whether any unvested options will become exercisable
prior to the consummation of the exchange offer.
CONSIDERATION TO BE PAID
You will receive two shares of our common stock for each share of Net
Perceptions common stock that you hold that you validly tender and do not
properly withdraw. The 1 for 50 reverse stock split of our common stock will
change the ratio to 1/25 of a share for each share of Net Perceptions common
stock. You will not receive any fractional share of our common stock. Instead,
you will receive cash in an amount equal to the value of the fractional share of
our common stock that you would otherwise have been entitled to receive.
TIMING OF THE EXCHANGE OFFER
Our exchange offer is scheduled to expire at 5:00 p.m., New York City time,
on February 20, 2004. For more information, you should read the discussion below
under the caption "Extension, Termination and Amendment."
The term "expiration date" means 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on February
20, 2004, unless we extend the period of time for which the exchange offer is
open, in which case the term "expiration date" means the latest time and date on
which the exchange offer, as so extended, expires.
EXTENSION, TERMINATION AND AMENDMENT
We expressly reserve the right, in our sole discretion, at any time or from
time to time, to extend the period of time during which the exchange offer
remains open, and we can do so by giving oral or written notice of that
extension to the exchange agent. We cannot assure you that we will exercise our
right to extend the exchange offer, although currently we intend to do so until
all conditions have been satisfied or, where permissible, waived. During any
extension, all shares of Net Perceptions common stock previously tendered and
not withdrawn will remain subject to the exchange offer, subject to each
shareholder's right to withdraw his or her shares of Net Perceptions common
stock. You should read the discussion under the caption "Withdrawal Rights" in
this prospectus for more details.
Subject to the SEC's applicable rules and regulations, we also reserve the
right, in our sole discretion, at any time or from time to time:
o to delay acceptance for exchange or the exchange of any shares of Net
Perceptions common stock pursuant to the exchange offer, or to
terminate the exchange offer and not accept for exchange or exchange
any shares of Net Perceptions common stock not previously accepted for
exchange or exchanged, upon the failure of any of the conditions of
the exchange offer to be satisfied prior to the expiration date,
o to waive any condition, other than the condition relating to the
absence of an order or decree of any court or agency of competent
jurisdiction preventing the completion of the exchange offer, and the
condition relating to the effectiveness of the registration statement
for our shares to be issued in the exchange offer, or
o to amend the exchange offer in any respect, by giving oral or written
notice of such delay, termination or amendment to the exchange agent
and by making a public announcement.
We will follow any extension, termination, amendment or delay, as promptly
as practicable, with a public announcement. In the case of an extension, the
related announcement will be issued no later than 9:00 A.M., New York City time,
on the next business day after the previously scheduled expiration date. Subject
to applicable law, including Rules 14d-4(d) and 14d-6(c) under the Exchange Act,
which require that any material change in the information published, sent or
given to Net Perceptions shareholders in connection with the exchange offer be
promptly sent to shareholders in a manner reasonably designed to inform
shareholders of that change. Without limiting the manner in which we may choose
to make any public announcement, we assume no obligation to publish, advertise
or otherwise communicate any public announcement of the type described in this
paragraph other than by issuing a press release to the Dow Jones News Service,
PR Newswire or some other similar national news service.
If we make a material change in the terms of the exchange offer or the
information concerning the exchange offer, or if we waive a material condition
of the exchange offer, we will extend the exchange offer to the extent required
under the Exchange Act. If, prior to the expiration date, we change the
percentage of shares of Net Perceptions common stock sought in the exchange or
the consideration offered to Net Perceptions shareholders, that change will
apply to all holders whose shares of Net Perceptions common stock are accepted
for exchange pursuant to the exchange offer, whether those shares of Net
Perceptions common stock were accepted for exchange prior to the change. If at
the time notice of such a change is first published, sent or given to Net
Perceptions shareholders, the exchange offer is scheduled to expire at any time
earlier than the tenth business day from and including the date that the related
notice is first so published, sent or given, we will extend the exchange offer
until the expiration of that ten business day period. For purposes of the
exchange offer, a business day means any day other than a Saturday, Sunday or
federal holiday and consists of the time period from 12:01 A.M. through 12:00
midnight, New York City time.
If Net Perceptions agrees upon a negotiated merger with us, we may amend or
terminate the exchange offer without purchasing any shares of Net Perceptions
common stock.
EXCHANGE OF NET PERCEPTIONS SHARES; DELIVERY OF OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES COMMON
STOCK
Upon the terms and subject to the conditions of the exchange offer,
including, if the exchange offer is extended or amended, the terms and
conditions of any extension or amendment, we will accept, and will exchange,
shares of Net Perceptions common stock validly tendered and not properly
withdrawn promptly after the expiration date. In all cases, exchange of shares
of Net Perceptions common stock tendered and accepted for exchange pursuant to
the exchange offer will be made only after timely receipt by the exchange agent
of:
o certificates for those shares of Net Perceptions common stock (or a
confirmation of a book-entry transfer of those shares of Net
Perceptions common stock in the exchange agent's account at The
Depository Trust Company, or DTC),
o a properly completed and duly executed letter of transmittal or a
manually signed facsimile of that document, and
o any other required documents.
For purposes of the exchange offer, we will be deemed to have accepted for
exchange shares of Net Perceptions common stock validly tendered and not
withdrawn if and when we notify the exchange agent of our acceptance for
exchange of those shares of Net Perceptions common stock pursuant to the
exchange offer. As soon as practicable after receipt of that notice, the
exchange agent will deliver the exchange offer consideration to Net Perceptions
shareholders who tendered Net Perceptions common stock. The exchange agent will
act as agent for tendering Net Perceptions shareholders for the purpose of
receiving from us the exchange offer consideration, including our common stock
and any cash to be paid in lieu of fractional shares of our common stock, and
transmitting the exchange offer consideration, if any, to such shareholders. You
will not receive any interest on any cash that we pay you regardless of any
delay in making the exchange.
If we do not accept any tendered shares of Net Perceptions common stock for
exchange pursuant to the terms and conditions of the exchange offer for any
reason, or if certificates are submitted for more shares of Net Perceptions
common stock than are tendered, we will return certificates for such shares of
Net Perceptions common stock without expense to the tendering shareholder. In
the case of shares of Net Perceptions common stock tendered by book-entry
transfer of those shares of Net Perceptions common stock into the exchange
agent's account at DTC pursuant to the procedures set forth below under the
discussion entitled "Procedure for Tendering," those shares of Net Perceptions
common stock will be credited to an account maintained within DTC as soon as
practicable following expiration or termination of the exchange offer.
CASH INSTEAD OF FRACTIONAL SHARES OF OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES COMMON STOCK
We will not issue fractional shares of our common stock pursuant to the
exchange offer. Instead, each tendering Net Perceptions shareholder who would
otherwise be entitled to a fractional share of our common stock will receive
cash in an amount equal to that fraction (expressed as a decimal, rounded to the
nearest 0.01 of a share) multiplied by the average of the closing sale prices
for a share of our common stock for the ten consecutive trading days immediately
preceding the expiration of the exchange offer, as reported in the Over the
Counter Bulletin Board. We will adjust the closing sale prices, if necessary, to
reflect the 1 for 50 reverse stock split effective February 16, 2004.
WITHDRAWAL RIGHTS
You may withdraw any shares of Net Perceptions common stock tendered
pursuant to the exchange offer at any time prior to the expiration date. You may
also withdraw your shares at any time after the expiration date until we have
accepted the shares for payment. Once we accept tendered shares for exchange,
your tender is irrevocable.
For a withdrawal to be effective, the exchange agent must receive from each
withdrawing Net Perceptions shareholder a written notice of withdrawal at one of
its addresses set forth on the back cover of this prospectus, and such notice
must include the Net Perceptions shareholder's name, address, social security
number, the certificate number(s) and the number of shares of Net Perceptions
common stock to be withdrawn as well as the name of the registered holder, if it
is different from that of the person who tendered those shares of Net
Perceptions common stock.
A financial institution must guarantee all signatures on the notice of
withdrawal in order for the exchange agent to release withdrawn securities. Most
banks, savings and loan associations and brokerage houses are able to effect
these signature guarantees for shareholders. The financial institution must be a
participant in the Securities Transfer Agents Medallion Program, unless those
shares of Net Perceptions common stock have been tendered for the account of
such a financial institution.
If shares of Net Perceptions common stock have been tendered pursuant to
the procedures for book-entry tender discussed under the caption entitled
"Procedure for Tendering," any notice of withdrawal must specify the name and
number of the account at DTC to be credited with the withdrawn shares of Net
Perceptions common stock and must otherwise comply with DTC's procedures. If
certificates have been delivered or otherwise identified to the exchange agent,
the name of the registered holder and the serial numbers of the particular
certificates evidencing the withdrawn shares of Net Perceptions common stock
withdrawn must also be furnished to the exchange agent, as stated above, prior
to the physical release of those certificates.
We will decide all questions as to the form and validity, including time of
receipt, of any notice of withdrawal in our sole discretion, and our decision
shall be final and binding. None of Obsidian Enterprises, the exchange agent,
the information agent, or any other person will be under any duty to give
notification of any defects or irregularities in any notice of withdrawal or
will incur any liability for failure to give any notification. Any shares of Net
Perceptions common stock properly withdrawn will be deemed not to have been
validly tendered for purposes of the exchange offer. However, Net Perceptions
shareholders may retender withdrawn shares of Net Perceptions common stock by
following one of the procedures discussed below under the captions entitled
"Procedure for Tendering" or "Guaranteed Delivery" at any time prior to the
expiration date.
If you withdraw any of your Net Perceptions common stock, you automatically
withdraw the associated share purchase rights. You may not withdraw rights
unless you also withdraw the associated Net Perceptions common stock.
PROCEDURE FOR TENDERING
GENERAL
To validly tender shares of Net Perceptions common stock pursuant to the
exchange offer,
o the exchange agent must receive at its addresses set forth on the back
cover of this prospectus (1) a properly completed and duly executed
letter of transmittal, along with any required signature guarantees,
or an agent's message in connection with a book-entry transfer, and
any other required documents, and (2) either certificates for tendered
shares of Net Perceptions common stock or, if those shares of Net
Perceptions common stock are tendered pursuant to the procedures for
book-entry tender set forth below, a book-entry confirmation of
receipt of that tender, in each case before the expiration date, or
o you must comply with the guaranteed delivery procedures set forth
below under "Guaranteed Delivery."
The term "agent's message" means a message, transmitted by DTC to, and
received by, the exchange agent and forming a part of a book-entry confirmation,
that states that DTC has received an express acknowledgment from the DTC
participant tendering the shares of Net Perceptions common stock that are the
subject of that book-entry confirmation, that the participant has received and
agrees to be bound by the terms of the letter of transmittal and that we may
enforce that agreement against the participant.
SHARE PURCHASE RIGHTS
You must tender one share purchase right under the Net Perceptions Rights
Agreement, if you hold such a right, for each share of Net Perceptions common
stock tendered to effect a valid tender of Net Perceptions common stock, unless
the associated share purchase rights have been redeemed or the Net Perceptions
Rights Agreement has been amended so the rights would not be triggered by the
exchange offer or proposed merger. The rights are currently represented by the
certificates for the Net Perceptions common stock and your tender of Net
Perceptions common stock prior to the date the share purchase rights become
exercisable and transferable will also constitute a tender of the associated
share purchase rights. We will not make a separate payment to you for the share
purchase rights. When and if the rights become exercisable and transferable,
separate certificates representing the rights will be mailed to holders of
record of Net Perceptions common stock as soon as practicable, and those
separate rights certificates alone will evidence the rights.
If the rights under the Net Perceptions Rights Agreement become exercisable
and transferable and Net Perceptions or the related rights agent distributes
separate certificates representing the rights to you prior to the time that you
tender your Net Perceptions common stock pursuant to the exchange offer,
certificates representing a number of rights equal to the number of shares of
Net Perceptions common stock tendered must be delivered to the exchange agent,
or, if available, a book-entry confirmation received by the exchange agent with
respect thereto, for your shares of Net Perceptions common stock to be validly
tendered. If the rights become exercisable and transferable and separate
certificates representing the rights are not distributed prior to the time
shares of Net Perceptions common stock are tendered pursuant to our exchange
offer, rights may be tendered prior to the time that you receive the
certificates for rights by use of the guaranteed delivery procedure described
under "Guaranteed Delivery" below.
If rights certificates are distributed but are not available to you before
you tender Net Perceptions common stock pursuant to the exchange offer, a tender
of Net Perceptions common stock constitutes an agreement by you to deliver to
the exchange agent pursuant to the guaranteed delivery procedures described
below, rights certificates representing a number of rights equal to the number
of shares of Net Perceptions common stock tendered prior to the expiration of
the period to be specified in the notice of guaranteed delivery and the related
letter of transmittal for delivery of rights certificates or a book-entry
confirmation for rights. We refer to this period as the rights delivery period.
We reserve the right to require receipt of such rights certificates, or a
book-entry confirmation with respect to such rights, prior to accepting Net
Perceptions common stock for exchange.
Nevertheless, we will be entitled to accept for exchange Net Perceptions
common stock that you tender prior to receipt of the rights certificates
required to be tendered with such Net Perceptions common stock or a book-entry
confirmation with respect to such rights and either (a) subject to complying
with applicable rules and regulations of the SEC, withhold payment for such Net
Perceptions common stock pending receipt of the rights certificates or a
book-entry confirmation for those rights or (b) exchange Net Perceptions common
stock accepted for exchange pending receipt of the rights certificates or a
book-entry confirmation for such rights in reliance upon the guaranteed delivery
procedures described below. In addition, after expiration of the rights delivery
period, we may instead elect to reject as invalid a tender of Net Perceptions
common stock with respect to which rights certificates or a book-entry
confirmation for an equal number of rights have not been received by the
exchange agent. Any determination by us to make payment for Net Perceptions
common stock in reliance upon such guaranteed delivery procedure or, after
expiration of the rights delivery period, to reject a tender as invalid, shall
be made, subject to applicable law, in our sole and absolute discretion.
BOOK-ENTRY DELIVERY
The exchange agent will establish accounts with respect to the shares of
Net Perceptions common stock at DTC for purposes of the exchange offer, and any
financial institution that is a participant in DTC will be able to make
book-entry delivery of the shares of Net Perceptions common stock by causing DTC
to transfer the shares of Net Perceptions common stock into the exchange agent's
account in accordance with DTC's procedure for that transfer. However, although
delivery of shares of Net Perceptions common stock may be effected through
book-entry delivery at DTC, the letter of transmittal, with any required
signature guarantees, or an agent's message in connection with a book-entry
transfer, and any other required documents, must, in any case, be received by
the exchange agent prior to the expiration date, or the guaranteed delivery
procedures described below must be followed. We cannot assure you, however, that
book-entry delivery of rights will be available. If book-entry delivery of
rights is not available, you must tender rights by means of delivery of rights
certificates or pursuant to the guaranteed delivery procedure set forth below.
SIGNATURES
Signatures on all letters of transmittal must be guaranteed by an eligible
institution, except in cases in which shares of Net Perceptions common stock are
tendered either by a registered holder of shares of Net Perceptions common stock
who has not completed the box entitled "Special Issuance Instructions" on the
letter of transmittal or for the account of an eligible institution.
If the certificates for shares of Net Perceptions common stock or rights,
if any, are registered in the name of a person other than the person who signs
the letter of transmittal, or if certificates for unexchanged shares of Net
Perceptions common stock or rights, if any, are to be issued to a person other
than the registered holder(s), the certificates must be endorsed or accompanied
by appropriate stock powers, in either case signed exactly as the name or names
of the registered owner or owners appear on the certificates, with the
signature(s) on the certificates or stock powers guaranteed in the manner we
have described above.
METHOD OF DELIVERY
The method of delivery of share certificates and all other required
documents, including delivery through DTC, is at your option and risk, and the
delivery will be deemed made only when actually received by the exchange agent.
If delivery is by mail, we recommend registered mail with return receipt
requested, properly insured. In all cases, shareholders should allow sufficient
time to ensure timely delivery.
SUBSTITUTE FORM W-9
To prevent backup federal income tax withholding with respect to proceeds
received pursuant to the exchange offer, you must provide the exchange agent
with your correct taxpayer identification number and certify whether you are
subject to backup withholding of federal income tax by completing the substitute
Form W-9 included in the letter of transmittal. Some Net Perceptions
shareholders including, among others, all corporations and some foreign
individuals, are not subject to these backup withholding and reporting
requirements. In order for a foreign individual to qualify as an exempt
recipient, the shareholder must submit a Form W-8, signed under penalty of
perjury, attesting to that individual's exempt status.
GUARANTEED DELIVERY
If you wish to tender shares of Net Perceptions common stock or share
purchase rights, if any, pursuant to the exchange offer and your certificates
are not immediately available or you cannot deliver the certificates and all
other required documents to the exchange agent prior to the expiration date or
cannot complete the procedure for book-entry transfer on a timely basis, your
shares of Net Perceptions common stock or share purchase rights, if any, may
nevertheless be tendered, so long as all of the following conditions are
satisfied:
o you make their tender by or through an eligible institution (see
"Withdrawal Rights" above),
o the exchange agent receives, as provided below, a properly completed
and duly executed notice of guaranteed delivery, substantially in the
form we make available, on or prior to the expiration date, and
o the exchange agent receives, within three Nasdaq National Market
trading days after the date of execution of the notice of guaranteed
delivery, the certificates for all tendered shares of Net Perceptions
common stock, or rights, if any, or a confirmation of a book-entry
transfer of such securities into the exchange agent's account at DTC
as described above, in proper form for transfer, together with a
properly completed and duly executed letter of transmittal with any
required signature guarantees or, in the case of a book-entry
transfer, an agent's message, and all other documents required by the
letter of transmittal.
You may deliver the notice of guaranteed delivery by hand or transmit it by
facsimile transmission or mail to the exchange agent, and you must include a
guarantee by an eligible institution in the form set forth in that notice.
In all cases, we will exchange shares of Net Perceptions common stock
tendered and accepted for exchange pursuant to the exchange offer only after
timely receipt by the exchange agent of certificates for shares of Net
Perceptions common stock or rights, if any, or timely confirmation of a
book-entry transfer of those securities into the exchange agent's account at DTC
as described above, properly completed and duly executed letter(s) of
transmittal, or an agent's message in connection with a book-entry transfer, and
any other required documents.
APPOINTMENT OF PROXIES
By executing a letter of transmittal as set forth above, you irrevocably
appoint our designees as your attorneys-in-fact and proxies, each with full
power of substitution, to the full extent of your rights with respect to your
shares of Net Perceptions common stock tendered and accepted for exchange by us
and with respect to any and all other shares of Net Perceptions common stock and
other securities issued or issuable in respect of the tendered and accepted
shares of Net Perceptions common stock on or after December 15, 2003. That
appointment is effective, and voting rights will be affected, when and only to
the extent that we accept your shares for exchange and deposit with the exchange
agent our common stock and the cash with respect to fractional shares that
comprise the exchange offer consideration with respect to the shares of Net
Perceptions common stock that shareholders have tendered. All proxies shall be
considered coupled with an interest in the tendered shares of Net Perceptions
common stock and therefore shall not be revocable once the appointment is
effective. Upon the effectiveness of the appointment, all prior proxies that you
have given will be revoked, and you may not give any subsequent proxies, and, if
given, they will not be deemed effective. Our designees will, with respect to
the shares of Net Perceptions common stock for which the appointment is
effective, be empowered, among other things, to exercise all of the Net
Perceptions shareholders' voting and other rights as they, in their sole
discretion, deem proper at any annual, special or adjourned meeting of Net
Perceptions's shareholders or otherwise. We reserve the right to require that,
for shares of Net Perceptions common stock to be deemed validly tendered,
immediately upon our acceptance for exchange of those shares of Net Perceptions
common stock, we must be able to exercise full voting rights with respect to
those shares of Net Perceptions common stock. However, prior to acceptance for
exchange by us in accordance with terms of the exchange offer, the appointment
will not be effective, and we will have no voting rights as a result of the
tender of shares of Net Perceptions common stock.
VALIDITY OF TENDERS
We will determine questions as to the validity, form, eligibility,
including time of receipt, and acceptance for exchange of any tender of shares
of Net Perceptions common stock or rights, if any, in our sole discretion, and
our determination shall be final and binding. We reserve the absolute right to
reject any and all tenders of shares of Net Perceptions common stock that we
determine are not in proper form or the acceptance of, or exchange for, which
may, in the opinion of our counsel, be unlawful. We also reserve the absolute
right to waive any of the conditions of our exchange offer, other than the
condition relating to the absence of an injunction and the condition relating to
the effectiveness of the registration statement for our shares to be issued in
the exchange offer, or to waive any defect or irregularity in the tender of any
shares of Net Perceptions common stock. No tender of shares of Net Perceptions
common stock will be deemed to have been validly made until all defects and
irregularities in tenders of shares of Net Perceptions common stock have been
cured or waived. None of Obsidian Enterprises, the exchange agent, the
information agent, or any other person will be under any duty to give
notification of any defects or irregularities in the tender of any shares of Net
Perceptions common stock or rights, if any, or will incur any liability for
failure to give any notification. Our interpretation of the terms and conditions
of the exchange offer, including the letter of transmittal and its instructions,
will be final and binding.
The tender of shares of Net Perceptions common stock and share purchase
rights, if any, pursuant to any of the procedures described above will
constitute a binding agreement between us and the tendering shareholders upon
the terms and subject to the conditions of our exchange offer and the letter of
transmittal.
MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE EXCHANGE OFFER AND THE
PROPOSED MERGER
Our counsel, Barnes & Thornburg, has issued a tax opinion with respect to
the exchange offer and the proposed merger. That opinion has been filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission as an exhibit to the registration statement
on Form S-4 in connection with the exchange offer. That opinion concludes that
the exchange of shares of Net Perceptions common stock for our shares and cash
pursuant to the exchange offer and the proposed merger (1) will be treated for
federal income tax purposes as component parts of an integrated transaction
pursuant to a plan, but that (2) the integrated transaction will nevertheless,
more likely than not, fail to satisfy the requirements of reorganization within
the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code, by reason of the failure to satisfy
the continuity of business enterprise requirements of Treas. Reg. ss.
1.368-1(d). As a result, the consummation of the exchange offer and proposed
merger will be a fully taxable transaction to both the holders of Net
Perceptions common stock and to Net Perceptions itself.
LIMITATIONS OF DISCUSSION
The following discussion summarizes the material U.S. federal income tax
considerations that are generally applicable to holders of Net Perceptions
common stock who exchange their Net Perceptions common stock in the exchange
offer and the proposed merger for shares of our common stock and cash in lieu of
fractional shares. This discussion is based on currently existing provisions of
the Code, existing and proposed Treasury Regulations thereunder and current
administrative rulings and court decisions, all of which are subject to change.
Any such change, which may or may not be retroactive, could alter the tax
consequences of the exchange offer and the merger that are described below. You
should be aware that this discussion does not deal with all federal income tax
considerations that may be relevant to particular Net Perceptions shareholders
in light of their individual circumstances, such as Net Perceptions shareholders
who:
o are dealers in securities,
o are subject to the alternative minimum tax provisions of the Code,
o are foreign persons,
o do not hold their shares of Net Perceptions common stock as capital
assets,
o acquired their shares of Net Perceptions common stock in connection
with stock option or stock purchase plans or in other compensatory
transactions,
o hold their shares of Net Perceptions common stock as part of an
integrated investment (including a "straddle") comprised of shares of
Net Perceptions common stock and one or more other positions, or
o are subject to the constructive sale or constructive ownership
provisions of the Code under Sections 1259 or 1260, respectively, with
respect to their Net Perceptions common stock.
In addition, the following discussion does not address the tax consequences
of the exchange offer and the proposed merger to any person under foreign, state
or local tax laws.
TREATMENT AS AN INTEGRATED TRANSACTION
Steps of an integrated transaction will be aggregated in determining the
overall tax consequences of the transaction. See Revenue Ruling 2001-26 (merger
preceded by a tender offer), Revenue Ruling 2001-46, Revenue Ruling 67-274,
Revenue Ruling 90-95, King Enterprises, Inc. v. United States, 418 F.2d 511 (Ct.
Cl., 1969); J.F. Seagram Corp. v. Commissioner, 104 T.C. 75 (1995).
CONTINUITY OF BUSINESS ENTERPRISE REQUIREMENT
Transactions otherwise satisfying the statutory requirements as to form for
a qualifying reorganization will nevertheless fail to qualify for reorganization
treatment under the Code if the requisite continuity of business enterprise
requirement, described in Treas. Reg. ss. 1.368-1(d), is not satisfied. To meet
the continuity of business enterprise requirement, the issuing corporation, or
members of a qualified group of connected through qualifying ownership to the
issuing corporation, must either continue the target corporation's historic
business or use a significant portion of the target corporation's historic
business assets in a business. If the continuity of business enterprise
requirement is not satisfied, reorganization treatment under Section 368 will
not be accorded to the transaction.
Obsidian Enterprises was unable to represent to Barnes & Thornburg that
either the remaining business of Net Perceptions will be continued or that the
remaining business assets of Net Perceptions will be deployed in a trade or
business following the tender offer and proposed merger. Moreover, based on
disclosures made in Net Perceptions' third quarter 2003 Form 10-Q, it is
unlikely that the remaining activities of Net Perceptions would qualify as its
"historic business" in any event. Under these circumstances the continuity of
business enterprise requirement, more likely than not, will not be satisfied
and, as a result, reorganization treatment under Section 368 will not apply to
the tender offer and proposed merger.
EFFECT OF FAILURE TO QUALIFY AS A REORGANIZATION TO NET PERCEPTIONS SHAREHOLDERS
Because the exchange offer, combined with the proposed merger, will
constitute an integrated transaction, but nevertheless, more likely than not,
will fail to qualify as a reorganization, the exchange offer and proposed merger
will result in the recognition of taxable gain or loss to each exchanging Net
Perceptions shareholder measured by the difference between the cash and the fair
market value of our common stock received in the exchange offer and proposed
merger, compared with the exchanging Net Perceptions shareholder's tax basis for
the shares of Net Perceptions common stock surrendered in the exchange offer and
proposed merger. The shareholder would receive a tax basis for our common stock
received in the exchange offer and proposed merger equal to the fair market
value of the common stock at the time of its receipt and would start a new
holding period for such shares.
EFFECT OF FAILURE TO QUALIFY FOR REORGANIZATION TREATMENT TO NET PERCEPTIONS
Net Perceptions will recognize taxable gain or loss on the transfer of its
assets to either us or our subsidiary measured by the difference between (A) the
sum of the fair market value of our common stock and the value of the
liabilities of Net Perceptions assumed by the acquiring entity and (B) the sum
of the tax basis of the assets and cash transferred by Net Perceptions in the
proposed merger.
Net Perceptions's net operating losses and net operating loss carryforwards
will be able to be used to offset any gain recognized by Net Perceptions in the
proposed merger, but any remaining net operating losses or net operating loss
carryforwards will be extinguished as a result of the exchange offer and
proposed merger.
EFFECT ON OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES OR OUR SUBSIDIARY
Neither we nor our subsidiary will recognize gain or loss. Section 1032 of
the Code; Treas. Reg.ss.1.1032-3.
The foregoing discussion is not a complete analysis or listing of all
potential U.S. federal income tax consequences of the exchange offer and the
proposed merger. You are urged to consult your tax advisors concerning the U.S.
federal, state, local and foreign tax consequences in your particular
circumstances of participation in the exchange offer and/or the proposed merger
to you.
EFFECT OF THE EXCHANGE OFFER ON THE MARKET FOR NET PERCEPTIONS SHARES;
REGISTRATION UNDER THE EXCHANGE ACT
REDUCED LIQUIDITY; POSSIBLE DELISTING
If the proposed merger occurs, Net Perceptions will no longer be publicly
owned and its common stock will no longer be publicly traded.
Even if the proposed merger does not occur, Net Perceptions may not
continue to be publicly traded. The minimum bid price for shares of Net
Perceptions has been less than $1 since its $1.50 per share distribution to
shareholders as of September 3, 2003. As a result, Net Perceptions is unlikely
to meet the requirements for continued inclusion on Nasdaq. While the shares of
Net Perceptions might trade in the over the counter markets if they are no
longer traded on Nasdaq, if we purchase a large portion of the outstanding
shares of Net Perceptions common stock in the exchange offer, there may be so
few remaining Net Perceptions stockholders that Net Perceptions may cease making
filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission or cease being required to
comply with the SEC rules relating to publicly held companies. As a result,
there may not be a public trading market for shares of Net Perceptions common
stock.
Further, Net Perceptions has also disclosed in its public filings that if
its stockholders approve and adopt the proposed Plan of Liquidation, it expects
to terminate registration of its common stock under the Securities Act of 1934,
which will substantially reduce publicly available information about Net
Perceptions.
STATUS AS MARGIN SECURITIES
The shares of Net Perceptions common stock are presently margin securities
under the regulations of the Federal Reserve Board, which has the effect, among
other things, of allowing brokers to extend credit on the collateral of shares
of Net Perceptions common stock. Depending on factors similar to those described
above with respect to listing and market quotations, following completion of the
exchange offer, the shares of Net Perceptions common stock may no longer
constitute margin securities for the purposes of the Federal Reserve Board's
margin regulations, in which event the shares of Net Perceptions common stock
would be ineligible as collateral for margin loans made by brokers.
REGISTRATION UNDER THE EXCHANGE ACT
The shares of Net Perceptions common stock are currently registered under
the Exchange Act. Net Perceptions can terminate that registration upon
application to the SEC if the outstanding shares are not listed on a national
securities exchange and if there are fewer than 300 holders of record of shares
of Net Perceptions common stock. Termination of registration of the shares of
Net Perceptions common stock under the Exchange Act would reduce the information
that Net Perceptions must furnish to its shareholders and to the SEC and would
make some provisions of the Exchange Act, including the short-swing profit
recovery provisions of Section 16(b) and the requirement of furnishing a proxy
statement in connection with shareholders meetings pursuant to Section 14(a) and
the related requirement of furnishing an annual report to shareholders, no
longer applicable with respect to shares of Net Perceptions common stock.
Furthermore, the ability of Net Perceptions affiliates and persons holding
restricted securities of Net Perceptions to dispose of securities pursuant to
Rule 144 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act may
be impaired or eliminated. If registration of the shares of Net Perceptions
common stock under the Exchange Act were terminated, shares of Net Perceptions
common stock would no longer be eligible for Nasdaq National Market listing or
for continued inclusion on the Federal Reserve Board's list of margin
securities.
PURPOSE OF THE EXCHANGE OFFER; THE PROPOSED MERGER
THE PURPOSE OF THE EXCHANGE OFFER IS TO ACQUIRE VOTING CONTROL OF NET
PERCEPTIONS
We are making the exchange offer in order to acquire voting control of, and
ultimately the entire equity interest in, Net Perceptions. The exchange offer is
intended to facilitate the acquisition of all shares of Net Perceptions common
stock. Net Perceptions shareholders will not have dissenters' appraisal rights
as a result of the completion of the exchange offer.
UPON COMPLETION OF THE EXCHANGE OFFER WE INTEND TO PROMPTLY PROCEED WITH THE
PROPOSED MERGER
As soon as practicable after the completion of the exchange offer and
receipt of any additional regulatory approvals that may be required, we intend
to merge Net Perceptions with Obsidian Enterprises or a wholly-owned subsidiary.
The purpose of the proposed merger is to acquire all shares of Net Perceptions
common stock not tendered and exchanged pursuant to the exchange offer. In the
proposed merger, each then-outstanding share of Net Perceptions common stock,
except for treasury shares of Net Perceptions and shares we beneficially own
directly or indirectly for our own account (except for shares we hold in a
fiduciary capacity), will be converted into the same consideration per Net
Perceptions share offered in the exchange offer, subject to dissenters'
appraisal rights under Delaware law.
If we become the owners of at least 90% of the outstanding shares of Net
Perceptions common stock, the proposed merger may be completed pursuant to
Section 253 of the Delaware General Corporation Law. Under Section 253, a parent
corporation owning at least 90% of the outstanding shares of each class of a
domestic subsidiary corporation may merge the subsidiary corporation into itself
without the approval of the shareholders of the subsidiary corporation but with
the approval of the board of directors of the surviving corporation.
DISSENTERS'S APPRAISAL RIGHTS
No dissenters' rights are available in connection with the exchange offer.
Holders of Net Perceptions common stock who do not wish to accept the same
amount of consideration in the proposed merger as was paid in the exchange
offer, and who still hold their shares of Net Perceptions common stock at the
effective time of the proposed merger, will have the right to seek an appraisal
and to be paid the "fair value" of their shares of Net Perceptions common stock
if they properly demand appraisal of their shares. The amount each holder
receives will be judicially determined by the Delaware Court of Chancery and
paid to such holder, provided it complies with the provisions of Section 262
("Section 262") of the Delaware General Corporate Law ("DGCL").
This summary is not intended to be complete. You should read the entire
text of Section 262, which is set forth in Annex B to this prospectus. Any Net
Perceptions stockholder considering demanding appraisal is advised to consult
legal counsel. Appraisal rights, if any, will not be available unless and until
the proposed merger or a similar business combination is consummated. Net
Perceptions stockholders of record who desire to exercise their appraisal rights
must fully satisfy all of the applicable conditions summarized below.
If we acquire at least 90% of Net Perceptions common stock, then the
proposed merger will be effected as a short-form merger pursuant to Section 253
of the DGCL, which does not require any vote by the stockholders. In such a
case, we, as the corporation surviving such merger, must mail a notice of merger
to the Net Perceptions stockholders within ten days after the date such merger
is effective. The notice of merger must specify that the proposed merger has
become effective and that appraisal rights are available, and must include a
copy of Section 262 and any other information required by Section 262. Any
stockholder wishing to exercise appraisal rights must mail a written demand for
appraisal within 20 days after the date on which the notice of merger was sent.
If we fail to acquire at least 90% of Net Perceptions common stock in the
exchange offer, the proposed merger will be effected as a long-form merger,
which requires a stockholder vote on the approval and adoption of the merger
agreement. A stockholder wishing to dissent in a long-form merger must deliver a
written demand for appraisal to the Secretary of Net Perceptions before the
taking of the stockholder vote or within 20 days of receipt of notice of the
taking of such action by written consent. This written demand for appraisal must
be in addition to and separate from any proxy or vote abstaining from or voting
against the approval and adoption of the merger agreement. Merely voting
against, abstaining from voting, or failing to vote on the merger agreement will
not by itself constitute a demand for appraisal within the meaning of Section
262. In the case of a long-form merger, any stockholder seeking appraisal rights
must hold the Net Perceptions common stock for which appraisal is sought on the
date such stockholder makes demand and must continuously hold such Net
Perceptions common stock through the effective time of the proposed merger, and
otherwise comply with the provisions of Section 262.
In the case of both a short-form merger and a long-form merger, a demand
for appraisal must be executed by or for the stockholder of record, fully and
correctly, as such stockholder's name appears on the stock certificates. If
shares of Net Perceptions common stock are owned of record in a fiduciary
capacity, such as by a trustee, guardian or custodian, such demand must be
executed by the fiduciary. If shares of Net Perceptions common stock are owned
of record by more than one person, as in a joint tenancy or tenancy in common,
such demand must be executed by all joint owners. An authorized agent, including
an agent for two or more joint owners, may execute the demand for appraisal for
a stockholder of record; provided, however, the agent must identify the record
owner and expressly disclose the fact that, in exercising the demand, he is
acting as agent for the record owner. A record owner, such as a broker, who
holds Net Perceptions common stock as a nominee for others, may exercise
appraisal rights with respect to the Net Perceptions common stock held for all
or less than all beneficial owners of Net Perceptions common stock as to which
the holder is the record owner. In such case the written demand must set forth
the number of shares of Net Perceptions common stock covered by such demand.
Where the number of shares is not expressly stated, the demand will be presumed
to cover all shares of Net Perceptions common stock outstanding in the name of
such record owner. Beneficial owners who are not record owners and who intend to
exercise appraisal rights should instruct the record owner to comply strictly
with the statutory requirements with respect to the exercise of appraisal rights
before the date of any meeting of stockholders called to approve the proposed
merger in the case of a long-form merger and within 20 days following the
mailing of the notice of the proposed merger in the case of a short-form merger.
Stockholders who elect to exercise appraisal rights must mail or deliver
their written demands to Net Perceptions. The written demand for appraisal
should specify the stockholder's name and mailing address, the number of shares
of Net Perceptions common stock covered by the demand and that the stockholder
is thereby demanding appraisal of such shares. In the case of a short-form
merger, Net Perceptions must, within ten days after the effective time of the
proposed merger, provide notice of the effective time of the proposed merger to
all stockholders who have complied with Section 262 and have not voted for
approval and adoption of the merger agreement. In the case of a long-form
merger, stockholders electing to exercise their appraisal rights under Section
262 must not have voted for the approval and adoption of the merger agreement or
consented thereto in writing. Voting in favor of the approval and adoption of
the merger agreement, or delivering a proxy in connection with the stockholders
meeting called to approve the merger agreement (unless the proxy votes against,
or expressly abstains from the vote on, the approval and adoption of the merger
agreement), will constitute a waiver of the stockholder's right of appraisal and
will nullify any written demand for appraisal submitted by the stockholder.
Regardless of whether the proposed merger is effected as a long-form merger or a
short-form merger, within 120 days after the effective time of the proposed
merger, any Net Perceptions stockholder who has complied with the required
conditions of Section 262 and who is otherwise entitled to appraisal rights may
file a petition in the Delaware Court of Chancery demanding a determination of
the fair value of the shares of the dissenting Net Perceptions stockholders. We
are under no obligation to and have no present intention to file a petition.
Accordingly, it is the obligation of the holders of Net Perceptions common stock
to initiate all action to perfect their appraisal rights in respect of their
shares within the time prescribed in Section 262.
Within 120 days after the effective time of the proposed merger, any holder
of Net Perceptions common stock who has complied with the requirements for
exercise of appraisal rights will be entitled, upon written request, to receive
from the surviving corporation a statement setting forth the aggregate number of
shares not voted in favor of the adoption of the proposed merger and with
respect to which demands for appraisal have been received and the aggregate
number of holders of such shares. The statement must be mailed ten days after a
written request therefor has been received by Net Perceptions or within ten days
after the expiration of the period for delivery of demands for appraisal,
whichever is later.
If a petition for an appraisal is timely filed, and a copy thereof is
served upon it, Net Perceptions will then be obligated within 20 days to file
with the Delaware Register in Chancery a duly verified list containing the names
and addresses of all stockholders who have demanded an appraisal of their shares
and with whom agreements as to the value of their shares have not been reached.
After notice to those stockholders as required by the Court, the Delaware Court
of Chancery is empowered to conduct a hearing on the petition to determine which
stockholders are entitled to appraisal rights. The Court may require the holders
of the shares of Net Perceptions common stock who demanded payment for their
shares to submit their stock certificates to the Register in Chancery for
notation thereon the pendency of the appraisal proceeding; and if any
stockholder fails to comply with that direction, the Court may dismiss the
proceedings as to that stockholder. After determining the holders of Net
Perceptions common stock entitled to appraisal, the Court will appraise the Net
Perceptions common stock owned by such Net Perceptions stockholders, determining
the fair value of such common stock, together with a fair rate of interest to be
paid, if any, upon the amount determined to be the fair value.
In determining fair value, the Delaware Court of Chancery is to take into
account all relevant factors. In Weinberger v. UOP, Inc., et al., 457 A.2d 701,
712-713 (Del. 1983), the Delaware Supreme Court discussed the factors that could
be considered in determining fair value in an appraisal proceeding, stating that
"proof of value by any techniques or methods which are generally considered
acceptable in the financial community and otherwise admissible in court" should
be considered and that a "fair price obviously requires consideration of all
relevant factors involving the value of a company." Further, the Delaware
Supreme Court stated that in making this determination of fair value a court
must consider "market value, asset value, dividends, earnings prospects, the
nature of the enterprise and any other facts which were known or which could be
ascertained as of the date of merger which throw any light on future prospects
of the merged corporation." The Delaware Supreme Court has further construed
Section 262 to mean that "elements of future value, including the nature of the
enterprise, which are known or susceptible of proof as of the date of the merger
and not the product of speculation, may be considered." However, the Court noted
that Section 262 provides that fair value is to be determined "exclusive of any
element of value arising from the accomplishment or expectation of the merger."
Net Perceptions stockholders who in the future consider seeking appraisal
should consider that the fair value of their Net Perceptions common stock
determined under Section 262 could be more than, the same as, or less than the
consideration paid for such stock in the exchange offer if they do seek
appraisal of their Net Perceptions common stock, and that opinions of investment
banking firms as to fairness from a financial point of view are not necessarily
opinions as to fair value under Section 262. Moreover, we may argue in any
appraisal proceeding that, for purposes thereof, the "fair value" of the Net
Perceptions common stock is less than that paid in the exchange offer. The cost
of the appraisal proceeding may be determined by the Delaware Court of Chancery
and taxed upon the parties as the Delaware Court of Chancery deems equitable in
the circumstances. Upon application of a dissenting stockholder, the Delaware
Court of Chancery may order that all or a portion of the expenses incurred by
any dissenting stockholder in connection with the appraisal proceeding,
including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys' fees and the fees and
expenses of experts, be charged pro rata against the value of all Net
Perceptions common stock entitled to appraisal. In the absence of such a
determination or assessment, each party bears its own expenses. Any Net
Perceptions stockholder who has duly demanded appraisal in compliance with
Section 262 will not, after the effective time of the proposed merger, be
entitled to vote for any purpose the Net Perceptions common stock subject to
such demand or to receive payment of dividends or other distributions on such
Net Perceptions common stock, except for dividends or other distributions
payable to stockholders of record at a date prior to the effective time of the
proposed merger.
At any time within 60 days after the effective time of the proposed merger,
any former holder of Net Perceptions common stock will have the right to
withdraw his or her demand for appraisal and to accept the consideration paid
for such Net Perceptions stock in the exchange offer. After this period, such
holder may withdraw his or her demand for appraisal only with our consent as the
corporation surviving the proposed merger. If no petition for appraisal is filed
with the Delaware Court of Chancery within 120 days after the effective time of
the proposed merger, stockholders' rights to appraisal shall cease and all
stockholders shall be entitled to receive the consideration paid for the same
class or series of the exchange offer. Inasmuch as Net Perceptions has no
obligation to file such a petition, and we have no present intention to cause or
permit Net Perceptions to do so, any stockholder who desires such a petition to
be filed is advised to file it on a timely basis. However, no petition timely
filed in the Delaware Court of Chancery demanding appraisal may be dismissed as
to any stockholder without the approval of the Delaware Court of Chancery, and
such approval may be conditioned upon such terms as the Delaware Court of
Chancery deems just. Failure to take any required step in connection with the
exercise of appraisal rights may result in the termination or waiver of such
rights. Appraisal rights cannot be exercised at this time.
The information set forth above is for informational purposes only with
respect to alternatives available to stockholders if the proposed merger is
consummated. Stockholders who will be entitled to appraisal rights in connection
with the proposed merger will receive additional information concerning
appraisal rights and the procedures to be followed in connection therewith
before such stockholders have to take any action relating thereto. Net
Perceptions stockholders who exchange Net Perceptions common stock in the
exchange offer will not be entitled to exercise appraisal rights in connection
with the exchange offer but, rather, will receive the consideration paid in the
exchange offer for such shares. The foregoing summary of appraisal rights of
objecting stockholders under the DGCL does not purport to be a complete
statement of the procedures to be followed by Net Perceptions stockholders
desiring to exercise any available appraisal rights. The foregoing summary is
qualified in its entirety by reference to Section 262. The preservation and
exercise of appraisal rights require strict adherence to the applicable
provisions of the DGCL. See Annex B attached to this prospectus for the full
text of the dissenters' appraisal rights provisions of Delaware law.
CONDITIONS TO THE EXCHANGE OFFER
The exchange offer is also subject to a number of conditions, all of which
must be satisfied or waived by us prior to the expiration of the expiration of
the exchange offer. These conditions are described below:
MINIMUM TENDER CONDITION
We cannot consummate the exchange offer unless, prior to the expiration of
the exchange offer, there have been validly tendered and not withdrawn the
number of shares of Net Perceptions common stock which represent at least 51% of
the total number of outstanding shares of Net Perceptions common stock on a
fully diluted basis. On a fully diluted basis means that the total number of
outstanding shares is determined as though all options or other securities
convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for shares of Net Perceptions
common stock had been so converted, exercised or exchanged as of the date that
we accept the shares of Net Perceptions common stock for exchange pursuant to
the exchange offer.
RIGHTS CONDITION
See "Comparison of Rights of Holders of Obsidian Enterprises Common Stock
and Net Perceptions Common Stock" for a description of the Net Perceptions
Rights Agreement. We cannot consummate the exchange offer unless the board of
directors of Net Perceptions shall have taken action which would cause the share
purchase rights to be inapplicable to the offer and the proposed merger or we
have been satisfied, in our reasonable discretion, that the share purchase
rights have been invalidated or are otherwise inapplicable to the exchange offer
and the proposed merger. This condition may be satisfied in a number of ways,
including the following:
o we could file litigation and be successful in seeking, among other
things, invalidation of the rights or the Rights Agreement, or an
injunction requiring Net Perceptions's board of directors to redeem
the rights. We have not yet filed such litigation.
o Net Perceptions shareholders could demonstrate significant support for
the exchange offer and proposed merger and convince the current board
of Net Perceptions to redeem the rights, or the shareholders could
replace, the Net Perceptions board of directors with new directors who
would, subject to fiduciary duties and successful challenges to the
Rights Agreement, take such actions as may be necessary with respect
to the share purchase rights so that the share purchase rights would
not be triggered by the exchange offer or the proposed merger, or
o the board of Net Perceptions may otherwise determine that the Rights
Agreement is inconsistent with fulfilling their fiduciary duties and
redeem the rights or amend the Net Perceptions Rights Agreement so the
rights would not be triggered by the exchange offer and the proposed
merger.
SECTION 203 CONDITION
Consummation of the exchange offer is conditioned upon our being satisfied,
in our reasonable discretion, that Section 203 of the Delaware General
Corporation Law is inapplicable to the exchange offer and the proposed merger.
In general, Section 203 prevents an "interested stockholder" (generally, a
stockholder owning 15% or more of a corporation's outstanding voting stock or an
affiliate or associate thereof) from engaging in a "business combination"
(defined to include a merger or consolidation and certain other transactions)
with a Delaware corporation for a period of three years following the time on
which such stockholder became an interested stockholder unless (i) prior to such
time the corporation's board of directors approved either the business
combination or the transaction which resulted in such stockholder becoming an
interested stockholder, (ii) upon consummation of the transaction which resulted
in such stockholder becoming an interested stockholder, the interested
stockholder owned at least 85% of the corporation's voting stock outstanding at
the time the transaction commenced (excluding shares owned by certain employee
stock plans and persons who are directors and also officers of the corporation)
or (iii) at or subsequent to such time the business combination is approved by
the corporation's board of directors and authorized at an annual or special
meeting of stockholders, and not by written consent, by the affirmative vote of
at least 66 2/3% of the outstanding voting stock not owned by the interested
stockholder.
The provisions of Section 203 do not apply to a Delaware corporation if,
among other things, (i) such corporation amends its certificate of incorporation
or bylaws to elect not to be governed by Section 203 by (in addition to any
other required vote) the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares entitled
to vote; provided that such amendment would not be effective until 12 months
after its adoption and would not apply to any business combination between such
corporation and any person who became an interested stockholder on or prior to
its adoption, (ii) such corporation does not have a class of voting stock that
is listed on a national securities exchange, authorized for quotation on Nasdaq
or held of record by more than 2,000 stockholders, unless any of the foregoing
results from action taken, directly or indirectly, by an interested stockholder
or from a transaction in which a person becomes an interested stockholder, or
(iii) the business combination is proposed by an interested stockholder prior to
the consummation or abandonment of, and subsequent to the earlier of the public
announcement or the notice required under Section 203 of, any one of certain
proposed transactions which is with or by a person who was not an interested
stockholder during the previous three years or who became an interested
stockholder with the approval of the corporation's board of directors and is
approved or not opposed by a majority of the board of directors then in office
who were directors prior to any person becoming an interested stockholder during
the previous three years or were recommended for election to succeed such
directors by a majority of such directors.
The exchange offer is subject to satisfaction of the Section 203 Condition,
which will be satisfied if, among other things, (i) prior to the acceptance for
exchange of shares of Net Perceptions common stock pursuant to the exchange
offer, the Company Board approves the exchange offer or the proposed merger or
(ii) there are validly tendered prior to the expiration date and not withdrawn a
number of shares of Net Perceptions common stock which, together with any then
owned by us, would represent at least 85% of the shares of Net Perceptions
common stock outstanding on the date hereof (excluding shares of Net Perceptions
common stock owned by certain employee stock plans and persons who are directors
and also officers of the Company).
We reserve the right to waive the Section 203 Condition, although there can
be no assurance that we will do so, and we have not determined whether we would
be willing to do so under any circumstances. If we waive the Section 203
Condition and exchange shares of Net Perceptions common stock pursuant to the
exchange of Net Perceptions common stock or otherwise and Section 203 is
applicable, we may nevertheless seek to consummate a merger or other business
combination with the Company. We believe we would be able to cause the
consummation of such a merger or other business combination if we own a majority
of the outstanding shares of Net Perceptions common stock and (i) such merger or
other business combination is approved by the board of directors of Net
Perceptions and authorized at an annual or special meeting of stockholders of
the Company, and not by written consent, by the affirmative vote of at least 66
2/3% of the outstanding shares of Net Perceptions common stock not owned by us
or our affiliates and associates; or (ii) such merger or other business
combination occurs after the expiration of three years following the date we
became an interested stockholder.
On the other hand, if we waive the Section 203 Condition and exchange
shares of Net Perceptions common stock pursuant to the exchange offer or
otherwise and are prevented by Section 203 from consummating a merger or other
business combination with the Company, we may (i) determine not to seek to
consummate such a merger or other business combination, (ii) seek to acquire
additional shares of Net Perceptions common stock in the open market, pursuant
to privately negotiated transactions or otherwise, at prices that may be higher,
lower or the same as the value of our shares of common stock that we are
offering to exchange or (iii) seek to effect one or more alternative
transactions with or by the Company. We have not determined whether we would
take any of the actions described above under such circumstances.
We are hereby requesting that the board of directors of Net Perceptions
approves the exchange offer and takes any other action necessary to render
Section 203 inapplicable to a merger or other business combination with Net
Perceptions. There can be no assurance that the board of directors of Net
Perceptions will grant such approval or take such other action.
OTHER CONDITIONS TO THE EXCHANGE OFFER
Notwithstanding any other provision of the exchange offer, we shall not be
required to accept for exchange or exchange any tendered shares of Net
Perceptions common stock, may postpone the acceptance for exchange or exchange
of any tendered shares of Net Perceptions common stock, and may, in our sole
discretion, terminate or amend the exchange offer as to any shares of Net
Perceptions common stock not then exchanged, if at the expiration date, any of
the Minimum Tender Condition, the Rights Condition, the Section 203 Condition or
any of the other conditions to the exchange offer set forth in clauses (a)
through (k) below has not been satisfied or, in the case of any condition other
than the conditions set forth in clauses (a) or (b) below, waived.
The other conditions to the exchange offer are as follows:
(a) the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part shall
have become effective under the Securities Act, and no stop order
suspending the effectiveness of the registration statement or a
proceeding seeking a stop order shall have been issued nor shall there
have been proceedings for that purpose initiated or threatened by the
SEC, and we shall have received all necessary state securities law or
blue sky authorizations;
(b) no temporary restraining order, preliminary or permanent injunction or
other order or decree issued by any court or agency of competent
jurisdiction or other legal restraint or prohibition preventing the
completion of the exchange offer, the proposed merger or any of the
other transactions contemplated by the exchange offer shall be in
effect, and no statute, rule, regulation, order, injunction or decree
shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any
court, administrative agency or commission or other governmental
authority or instrumentality which prohibits, restricts or makes
illegal the completion of the exchange offer or the proposed merger;
(c) there shall not be pending or threatened any suit, action or
proceeding by any governmental entity (i) challenging the exchange
offer, seeking to restrain or prohibit the completion of the exchange
offer or seeking to obtain from Net Perceptions or us any damages that
are material in relation to Net Perceptions and its subsidiaries taken
as a whole or us and our subsidiaries taken as a whole, (ii) seeking
to prohibit or limit the ownership or operation by Net Perceptions or
its subsidiaries or us or any of our subsidiaries of any material
portion of the business or assets of Net Perceptions or its
subsidiaries or us or any of our subsidiaries or to compel Net
Perceptions or its subsidiaries or any of our subsidiaries to dispose
of or hold separate any material portion of the business or assets of
Net Perceptions or its subsidiaries or us or any of our subsidiaries
as a result of our exchange offer, (iii) seeking to prohibit us from
effectively controlling in any material respect the business or
operations of Net Perceptions or (iv) which otherwise is reasonably
likely to have a material adverse effect on us or Net Perceptions;
(d) the class action lawsuit filed against against Net Perceptions, its
current directors and unnamed defendants in the District Court, Fourth
Judicial District, of the State Of Minnesota, County of Hennepin
captioned Don Blakstad, on Behalf of Himself and All others Similarly
Situated, vs. Net Perceptions, Inc., John F. Kennedy, Ann L. Winblad,
John T. Riedl and Does 1-25, inclusive, File No. 03-17820 shall have
been resolved to our satisfaction;
(e) no change shall have occurred or been threatened in the business,
properties, assets, liabilities, capitalization, shareholders' equity,
condition (financial or otherwise), operations, licenses or
franchises, results of operations or prospects of Net Perceptions or
any of its subsidiaries that, in our reasonable judgment, is or is
reasonably likely to have a materially adverse effect to Net
Perceptions or any of its subsidiaries, nor shall we have become aware
of any facts that, in its our reasonable judgment, have or are
reasonably likely to have material adverse significance with respect
to either the value of Net Perceptions or any of its subsidiaries or
the value of the common stock of Net Perceptions to us;
(f) there shall not have occurred or been threatened (i) any general
suspension of trading in, or limitation on prices for, securities on
any national securities exchange or in the over-the-counter market in
the United States, (ii) any extraordinary or material adverse change
in the financial markets or major stock exchange indices in the United
States or abroad or in the market price of the shares of Net
Perceptions common stock, (iii) any change in the general political,
market, economic or financial conditions in the U.S. or abroad that
could, in our reasonable judgment, have a material adverse effect upon
the business, properties, assets, liabilities, capitalization,
shareholders equity, condition (financial or otherwise), operations,
licenses or franchises, results of operations or prospects of Net
Perceptions or any of its subsidiaries, (iv) any material change in
U.S. currency exchange rates or any other currency exchange rates or a
suspension of, or limitation on, the markets therefor, (v) a
declaration of a banking moratorium or any suspension of payments in
respect of banks in the United States, (vi) any limitation, whether or
not mandatory, by any government, domestic, foreign or supranational,
or governmental entity on, or other event that, in our sole judgment,
might affect, the extension of credit by banks or other lending
institutions, (vii) a commencement of war or armed hostilities or
other national or international calamity directly or indirectly
involving the U.S., or (viii) in the case of any of the foregoing
existing at the time of the commencement of the exchange offer, a
material acceleration or worsening thereof;
(g) Net Perceptions shall not have entered into or effectuated any other
agreement or transaction with any person or entity having the effect
of impairing our ability to acquire Net Perceptions or otherwise
diminishing the expected economic value to us of the exchange offer
and the proposed merger, including, but not limited to, any material
issuance of new securities of Net Perceptions, the declaration of any
extraordinary dividend, or any other transaction not in the ordinary
course of Net Perceptions's business.
(h) (i) no tender or exchange offer for some or all of the shares of Net
Perceptions common stock has been publicly proposed to be made or has
been made by another person (including Net Perceptions or any of its
subsidiaries or affiliates), or has been publicly disclosed, or we
shall otherwise learn that any person or "group" (as defined in
Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act) has acquired or proposes to
acquire beneficial ownership of more than 5% of any class or series of
capital stock of Net Perceptions (including the Net Perceptions common
stock), through the acquisition of stock, the formation of a group or
otherwise, or is granted any option, right or warrant, conditional or
otherwise, to acquire beneficial ownership of more than 5% of any
class or series of capital stock of Net Perceptions (including the Net
Perceptions common stock) other than acquisitions for bona fide
arbitrage purposes only and other than as disclosed in a Schedule 13D
or 13G on file with the SEC prior to December 15, 2003, (ii) any such
person or group which, prior to December 15, 2003, had filed such a
Schedule with the SEC shall not have acquired or proposes to acquire
beneficial ownership of additional shares of any class or series of
capital stock of Net Perceptions, through the acquisition of stock,
the formation of a group or otherwise, constituting 1% or more of any
such class or series, or is granted any option, right or warrant,
conditional or otherwise, to acquire beneficial ownership of
additional shares of any class or series of capital stock of Net
Perceptions constituting 1% or more of any such class or series, (iii)
no person or group shall have entered into a definitive agreement or
an agreement in principle or made a proposal with respect to a tender
or exchange offer or a merger, consolidation or other business
combination with or involving Net Perceptions or (iv) no person shall
have made a public announcement reflecting an intent to acquire Net
Perceptions or any assets or securities of Net Perceptions;
(i) Neither Net Perceptions nor any of its subsidiaries has (i)
split, combined or otherwise changed, or authorized or proposed
the split, combination or other change of, the shares of Net
Perceptions common stock or its capitalization, (ii) acquired or
otherwise caused a reduction in the number of, or authorized or
proposed the acquisition or other reduction in the number of,
outstanding shares of Net Perceptions common stock or other
securities, (iii) issued or sold, or authorized or proposed the
issuance or sale of, any additional shares of Net Perceptions
common stock, shares of any other class or series of capital
stock, other voting securities or any securities convertible
into, or options, rights or warrants, conditional or otherwise,
to acquire, any of the foregoing (other than the issuance of
shares of Net Perceptions common stock pursuant to and in
accordance with the terms in effect on December 15, 2003, of
employee stock options outstanding prior to such date), or any
other securities or rights in respect of, in lieu of, or in
substitution or exchange for any shares of its capital stock,
(iv) permitted the issuance or sale of any shares of any class of
capital stock or other securities of any subsidiary of Net
Perceptions, (v) declared, paid or proposed to declare or pay any
dividend or other distribution on any shares of capital stock of
Net Perceptions, (vi) altered or proposed to alter any material
term of any outstanding security, issued or sold, or authorized
or proposed the issuance or sale of, any debt securities or
otherwise incurred or authorized or proposed the incurrence of
any debt other than in the ordinary course of business (other
than to amend the Net Perceptions Rights Agreement to make the
share purchase rights inapplicable to the exchange offer and the
proposed merger), (vii) authorized, recommended, proposed,
announced its intent to enter into or entered into an agreement
with respect to or effected any merger, consolidation, business
combination, acquisition of assets, disposition of assets or
relinquishment of any material contract or other right of Net
Perceptions or any of its subsidiaries or any comparable event
not in the ordinary course of business, (viii) authorized,
recommended, proposed, announced its intent to enter into or
entered into any agreement or arrangement with any person or
group that, in our judgment, has or may have material adverse
significance with respect to either the value of Net Perceptions
or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates or the value of the
shares of Net Perceptions common stock to us or any of our
subsidiaries or affiliates, (ix) entered into or amended any
employment, severance or similar agreement, arrangement or plan
with any of its employees other than in the ordinary course of
business or entered into or amended any such agreements,
arrangements or plans so as to provide for increased benefits to
employees as a result of or in connection with the making of the
exchange offer, the acceptance for payment of or payment for some
of or all the shares of Net Perceptions common stock by us or our
consummation of any merger or other similar business combination
involving Net Perceptions, (x) except as may be required by law,
taken any action to terminate or amend any employee benefit plan
(as defined in Section 3(2) of the Employee Retirement Income
Security Act of 1974) of Net Perceptions or any of its
subsidiaries, or we shall have become aware of any such action
which was not previously announced, (xi) taken any action in
connection with the liquidation or dissolution of Net Perceptions
beyond the action of its Board of Directors adopting a plan of
liquidation and the filing of preliminary proxy material on
November 4, 2003, or (xi) amended, or authorized or proposed any
amendment to, its certificate of incorporation or bylaws (or
other similar constituent documents) or we shall become aware
that Net Perceptions or any of its subsidiaries shall have
amended, or authorized or proposed any amendment to, its
certificate of incorporation or bylaws (or other similar
constituent documents) which has not been previously disclosed
(in each case, other than to amend the Net Perceptions Rights
Agreement to make the share purchase rights inapplicable to the
exchange offer and the proposed merger); or
(j) we become aware (i) that any material contractual right of Net
Perceptions or any of its subsidiaries has been impaired or
otherwise adversely affected or that any material amount of
indebtedness of Net Perceptions or any of its subsidiaries has
been accelerated or has otherwise become due or become subject to
acceleration prior to its stated due date, in each case with or
without notice or the lapse of time or both, as a result of or in
connection with the exchange offer or the consummation by us or
any of our subsidiaries or affiliates of a merger or other
similar business combination involving Net Perceptions or (ii) of
any covenant, term or condition in any instrument or agreement of
Net Perceptions or any of its subsidiaries that, in our judgment,
has or may have material adverse significance with respect to
either the value of Net Perceptions or any of its affiliates or
the value of the shares of Net Perceptions common stock to us or
any of our affiliates (including, without limitation, any event
of default that may ensue as a result of or in connection with
the exchange offer, the acceptance for payment of or payment for
some or all of the shares of Net Perceptions common stock by us
or our consummation of a merger or other similar business
combination involving the Net Perceptions); or
(k) Net Perceptions or any of its subsidiaries shall have (i) granted
to any person proposing a merger or other business combination
with or involving Net Perceptions or any of its subsidiaries or
the purchase of securities or assets of Net Perceptions or any of
its subsidiaries any type of option, warrant or right which, in
our judgment, constitutes a "lock-up" device (including, without
limitation, a right to acquire or receive any shares of Net
Perceptions common stock or other securities, assets or business
of Net Perceptions or any of its subsidiaries) or (ii) paid or
agreed to pay any cash or other consideration to any party in
connection with or in any way related to any such business
combination or purchase; which, in our judgment, in any such
case, and regardless of the circumstances (including any action
or omission by us) giving rise to any such condition, makes it
inadvisable to proceed with such acceptance for payment or
payment.
The conditions listed above are solely for our benefit and we may assert
them regardless of the circumstances giving rise to any of the conditions
(including any action or inaction by us). We may waive any of these conditions
in whole or in part (other than the conditions set forth in clauses (a) and (b)
above). The determination as to whether any condition has been satisfied shall
be in our reasonable judgment and will be final and binding on all parties. The
failure by us at any time to exercise any of the foregoing rights shall not be
deemed a waiver of any right and each right shall be deemed a continuing right
which may be asserted at any time and from time to time prior to the expiration
of the exchange offer.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS WITH NET PERCEPTIONS
Except as set forth in this prospectus under "Background of the Exchange
Offer" on page 28, neither we nor, to the best of our knowledge, any of our
directors, executive officers or other affiliates has entered into any contract,
arrangement, understanding or relationship with any other person with respect to
any securities of Net Perceptions, including, but not limited to, any contract,
arrangement, understanding or relationship concerning the transfer or the voting
of any securities, joint ventures, loan or option arrangements, puts or calls,
guarantees of loans, guarantees against loss or the giving or withholding of
proxies, consents or authorizations.
Except as described in this prospectus, there have been no negotiations,
transactions or material contacts since January 1, 2001, and no past, present or
proposed material contracts, arrangements, understandings, relationships,
negotiations or transactions during the past two years, between us or, to the
best of our knowledge, any of our directors, executive officers or other
affiliates on the one hand, and Net Perceptions or its affiliates, on the other
hand, concerning a merger, consolidation or acquisition, a tender offer for or
other acquisition of any Net Perceptions securities, an election of Net
Perceptions's directors, or a sale or other transfer of a material amount of
assets of Net Perceptions. Neither we, nor, to the best of our knowledge, any of
our directors, executive officers or other affiliates has, since January 1,
2001, had any transaction with Net Perceptions or any of its executive officers,
directors or affiliates where the aggregate value of the transaction exceeded
$60,000.
As of the date of this prospectus, neither we nor any of our executive
officers, directors or affiliates beneficially own for our own account any
shares of Net Perceptions common stock outstanding.
Neither we nor any of our subsidiaries, nor, to the best of our knowledge,
any of our executive officers, directors and associates, have been party to any
transactions in Net Perceptions common stock during the past 60 days.
FEES AND EXPENSES
We have retained Acclaim Financial Group Venture III LLC ("AFGIII") to act
as our strategic advisor in connection with the exchange offer and the proposed
merger. AFGIII will receive reasonable and customary compensation for these
services and will be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses, including reasonable
expenses of counsel and other advisors. We have agreed to indemnify AFGIII and
related persons against various liabilities and expenses in connection with its
services as the strategic advisor, including various liabilities and expenses
under the U.S. federal securities laws.
We have retained Innisfree M&A Incorporated as information agent in
connection with our exchange offer. The information agent may contact holders of
shares of Net Perceptions common stock by mail, telephone, telex, telegraph and
personal interview and may request brokers, dealers and other nominee
shareholders to forward material relating to our exchange offer to beneficial
owners of shares of Net Perceptions common stock. We will pay the information
agent reasonable and customary compensation for these services in addition to
reimbursing the information agent for its reasonable out-of- pocket expenses. We
have agreed to indemnify the information agent against various liabilities and
expenses in connection with our exchange offer, including various liabilities
under the U.S. federal securities laws.
In addition, we have retained StockTrans, Inc. as our exchange agent. We
will pay the exchange agent reasonable and customary compensation for its
services in connection with our exchange offer, reimburse the exchange agent for
its reasonable out-of-pocket expenses and indemnify the exchange agent against
various liabilities and expenses, including various liabilities under the U.S.
federal securities laws.
We will not pay any fees or commissions to any broker, dealer or other
person for soliciting tenders of shares of Net Perceptions common stock pursuant
to our exchange. We will reimburse brokers, dealers, commercial banks and trust
companies and other nominees, upon request, for customary clerical and mailing
expenses incurred by them in forwarding offering materials to their customers.
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT
The proposed merger will be accounted for using the "purchase" method of
accounting under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Net Perceptions
will be treated as the acquired corporation for such purposes. Net Perceptions's
assets and liabilities will be adjusted to their estimated fair value on the
closing date of the proposed merger and combined with the historical book values
of our assets and liabilities. Applicable income tax effects of such adjustments
will be included as a component of the combined entity's deferred tax asset or
liability. The difference between the estimated fair value of the assets and
liabilities (adjusted as discussed above) and the purchase price will be
recorded as intangible assets, including goodwill. For further information
concerning the amount of intangible assets to be recorded in connection with the
proposed merger and any applicable amortization thereof, refer to the Notes to
the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Balance Sheets.
REGULATORY APPROVALS.
GENERAL.
Based on our examination of publicly available information filed by Net
Perceptions with the SEC and other publicly available information concerning Net
Perceptions, we are not aware of any governmental license or regulatory permit
that appears to be material to Net Perceptions's business that might be
adversely affected by our acquisition of shares pursuant to the exchange offer
or, except as set forth below, of any approval or other action by any government
or governmental administrative or regulatory authority or agency, domestic or
foreign, that would be required for our acquisition or ownership of shares
pursuant to the exchange offer. Should any such approval or other action be
required or desirable, we currently contemplate that such approval or other
action will be sought. There is, however, no current intent to delay the
purchase of shares tendered pursuant to the exchange offer pending the outcome
of any such matter. There can be no assurance that any such approval or other
action, if needed, would be obtained (with or without substantial conditions) or
that if such approvals were not obtained or such other actions were not taken
adverse consequences might not result to Net Perceptions's business or certain
parts of Net Perceptions's business might not have to be disposed of, any of
which could cause us to elect to terminate the exchange offer without the
purchase of shares thereunder. Our obligation under the offer to accept for
payment and pay for shares is subject to the conditions set forth in "The
Exchange Offer".
STATE TAKEOVER STATUTES
A number of states have adopted laws which purport, to varying degrees, to
apply to attempts to acquire corporations that are incorporated in, or which
have substantial assets, stockholders, principal executive offices or principal
places of business or whose business operations otherwise have substantial
economic effects in, such states. Net Perceptions conducts business in a number
of states throughout the United States, some of which have enacted such laws.
Except a described herein, we do not know whether any of these laws will, by
their terms, apply to the offer or any merger or other business combination
between us or any of our affiliates and Net Perceptions, and we have not
complied with any such laws. To the extent that certain provisions of these laws
purport to apply to the offer or any such merger or other business combination,
we believe that there are reasonable bases for contesting such laws.
In 1982, in Edgar v. MITE Corp., the Supreme Court of the United States
invalidated on constitutional grounds the Illinois Business Takeover Statute
which, as a matter of state securities law, made takeovers of corporations
meeting certain requirements more difficult. However, in 1987 in CTS Corp. v.
Dynamics Corp. of America, the Supreme Court held that the State of Indiana
could, as a matter of corporate law, constitutionally disqualify a potential
acquiror from voting shares of a target corporation without the prior approval
of the remaining stockholders where, among other things, the corporation is
incorporated, and has a substantial number of stockholders, in the state.
Subsequently, in TLX Acquisition Corp. v. Telex Corp., a U.S. federal district
court in Oklahoma ruled that the Oklahoma statutes were unconstitutional as
applied to corporations incorporated outside Oklahoma in that they would subject
such corporations to inconsistent regulations. Similarly, in Tyson Foods, Inc.
v. McReynolds, a U.S. federal district court in Tennessee ruled that four
Tennessee takeover statutes were unconstitutional as applied to corporations
incorporated outside Tennessee. This decision was affirmed by the United States
Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. In December 1988, a U.S. federal
district court in Florida held in Grand Metropolitan PLC v. Butterworth that the
provisions of the Florida Affiliated Transactions Act and the Florida Control
Share Acquisition Act were unconstitutional as applied to corporations
incorporated outside of Florida.
If any government official or third party seeks to apply any state takeover
law to the offer or any merger or other business combination between us or any
of our affiliates and Net Perceptions, we will take such action as then appears
desirable, which action may include challenging the applicability or validity of
such statute in appropriate court proceedings. If it is asserted that one or
more state takeover statutes is applicable to the exchange offer or any such
merger or other business combination and an appropriate court does not determine
that it is inapplicable or invalid as applied to the offer or any such merger or
other business combination, we might be required to file certain information
with, or to receive approvals from, the relevant state authorities or holders of
shares, and we may be unable to accept for payment or pay for shares tendered
pursuant to the exchange offer, or be delayed in continuing or consummating the
offer or any such merger or other business combination. In such case, we may not
be obligated to accept for payment or pay for any tendered shares. See "The
Exchange Offer".
Any merger or other similar business combination that we propose would also
have to comply with any applicable U.S. federal law. In particular, unless the
shares were deregistered under the Exchange Act prior to such transaction, if
such merger or other business combination were consummated more than one year
after termination of the offer or did not provide for stockholders to receive
cash for their shares in an amount at least equal to the price paid in the
offer, we may be required to comply with Rule 13e-3 under the Exchange Act. If
applicable, Rule 13e-3 would require, among other things, that certain financial
information concerning Net Perceptions and certain information relating to the
fairness of the proposed transaction and the consideration offered to minority
stockholders in such a transaction be filed with the SEC and distributed to such
stockholders prior to consummation of the transaction.
OVER THE COUNTER BULLETIN BOARD
Our common stock trades on the Over the Counter Bulletin Board. Following
the exchange we intend to apply for inclusion on the NASDAQ SmallCap Market and
believe that we will satisfy the requirements for inclusion.
DESCRIPTION OF OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES CAPITAL STOCK
The following description of the terms of our capital stock is not meant to
be complete and is qualified by reference to our Certificate of Incorporation
and certain Certificates of the Designations, Preferences, Rights and
Limitations of preferred stock, which are incorporated by reference in this
prospectus. See "Where Can I Find More Information?" beginning on page 58.
Obsidian Enterprises is currently authorized to issue 40,000,000 shares of
common stock, par value $0.0001 per share. As of December 12, 2003, 36,007,925
shares of our common stock were issued and outstanding. Our outstanding shares
of common stock are fully paid and nonassessable, which means that the
stockholders have paid their purchase price in full and we may not ask them for
additional funds.
Obsidian Enterprises is authorized to issue 5,000,000 shares of preferred
stock, par value $0.001 per share, in one or more series. We have issued two
series of preferred stock: Series C Preferred Stock ("Series C Preferred") and
Series D Preferred Stock ("Series D Preferred"). As of October 10, 2003,
4,368,399 shares of our Series C Preferred and 118,688 shares of our Series D
Preferred were issued and outstanding.
As a result of action taken at our recent stockholders meeting and by our
Board of Directors, we will effect a 1 for 50 reverse stock split effective on
February 16, 2004. As a result of the reverse stock split and the amendment to
our Certificate of Incorporation, approximately 720,151 shares of our common
stock will be outstanding and the number of authorized shares of common stock
will be reduced to 10,000,000.
We anticipate that all of the shares of Series C Preferred and Series D
Preferred will be converted to shares of common stock immediately following the
effectiveness of the reverse stock split on February 16, 2004. As a result we
anticipate that immediately after February 16, 2004, we will have 2,832,924
shares of common stock outstanding and no Series C Preferred or Series D
Preferred outstanding.
DIVIDEND RIGHTS
The Delaware General Corporation Law provides that dividends may be paid on
our common stock and on any class of stock entitled to participate with the
common stock as to dividends, but only when and as declared by our board of
directors. Holders of Series C Preferred and Series D Preferred are entitled to
participate in dividends at the same rate as holders of our common stock.
VOTING RIGHTS
The Delaware General Corporation Law entitles each common stockholder to
one vote for each share of common stock held by a stockholder of record. Holders
of our common stock do not have the right of cumulative voting for the election
of directors or for any other purpose.
Except where the Delaware General Corporation Law requires voting by
separate classes, holders of both series of preferred stock and holders of the
common stock vote together as a single class. Holders of Series C Preferred and
Series D Preferred vote their shares as if they had been converted to common
stock, as described below. Accordingly, Series C Preferred has 20 votes per
share and Series D Preferred has 175 votes per share.
LIQUIDATION RIGHTS
Pursuant to the Delaware General Corporation Law, if Obsidian Enterprises
liquidates, dissolves or winds up its business, holders of our common stock are
in equal standing with holders of Series C Preferred and Series D Preferred and
are entitled to receive all remaining assets available for distribution to
shareholders after satisfaction of our liabilities. Holder of Series C Preferred
and Series D Preferred participate in any such event as if their shares had
already been converted to common stock, as described below.
PREEMPTION RIGHT AND SINKING FUND OR REDEMPTION
Holders of common stock have no preemptive rights to purchase or subscribe
for shares of any class, or series thereof, of stock of Obsidian Enterprises.
The common stock and both series of preferred stocks are not entitled to any
sinking fund or redemption provisions.
CONVERSION PROVISIONS
The common stock is not entitled to any conversion rights. Each share of
Series C Preferred Stock is convertible into 20 shares of common stock, at the
option of the holder. Each share of Series D Preferred Stock is convertible into
175 shares of common stock, at the option of the holder.
ANTI-TAKEOVER PROVISIONS
We are subject to the provisions of Section 203 of the Delaware General
Corporation Law. In general, the statute prohibits a publicly held Delaware
corporation from engaging in a business combination with an interested
stockholder for a period of three years after the date of the transaction in
which the person became an interested stockholder, unless the business
combination is approved in a prescribed manner. For purposes of Section 203, a
business combination includes a merger, asset sale or other transaction
resulting in a financial benefit to the interested stockholder. Under Section
203, an interested stockholder generally is defined as a person who, together
with affiliates and associates, owns (or within the three prior years did own)
15% or more of the corporation's outstanding voting stock.
Additionally, our board may, without further actions by our shareholders,
from time to time, direct the issuance of additional preferred stock in series
and may, at the time of issuance, determine the rights, preferences and
limitations of each series. Satisfaction of any dividend preferences of
outstanding preferred stock would reduce the amount of funds available for the
payment of dividends on our common stock. Holders of preferred stock may be
entitled to receive a preference payment in the event of any liquidation,
dissolution or winding up of Obsidian before any payment is made to the holders
of our common stock. The issuance of preferred stock may render more difficult
or tend to discourage a merger, tender offer or proxy contest, the assumption of
control by a holder of a large block of our securities or the removal of
incumbent management. The board, without shareholder approval, may issue
preferred stock with voting and conversion, exchange or other special rights,
which could adversely affect the holders of our common stock.
We currently have two series of preferred stock outstanding. As described
in detail above, we anticipate that all of the shares of Series C Preferred and
Series D Preferred will be converted to shares of common stock immediately
following the effectiveness of the reverse stock split on February 16, 2004. As
a result we anticipate that immediately after February 16, 2004, we will have
2,832,924 shares of common stock outstanding and no Series C Preferred or Series
D Preferred outstanding.
Delaware law and the ability of the board to issue additional preferred
stock may have the effect of deterring hostile takeovers or delaying changes in
control of our management, which could depress the trading price of our common
stock.
COMPARISON OF RIGHTS OF HOLDERS
OF OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES COMMON STOCK AND
NET PERCEPTIONS COMMON STOCK
Upon completion of the exchange offer and proposed merger, Net Perceptions
shareholders will become shareholders of Obsidian Enterprises, rather than
shareholders of Net Perceptions. Since both Obsidian Enterprises and Net
Perceptions are Delaware corporations, the rights of the shareholders of
Obsidian Enterprises and Net Perceptions are governed by the applicable laws of
the State of Delaware, including the Delaware General Corporation Law, and by
each company's respective certificate of incorporation, as amended, and bylaws,
as amended.
The following summary discusses some of the material differences between
the current rights of Obsidian Enterprises shareholders and Net Perceptions
shareholders under our certificate of incorporation and bylaws and Net
Perceptions's certificate of incorporation and Net Perceptions's bylaws. The
statements in this section are qualified in their entirety by reference to, and
are subject to, the detailed provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law,
our certificate of incorporation, our bylaws, Net Perceptions's certificate of
incorporation and Net Perceptions's bylaws. Copies of our certificate of
incorporation and bylaws and Net Perceptions's certificate of incorporation and
bylaws are incorporated by reference in Obsidian Enterprises's and Net
Perceptions's Annual Reports on Form 10-K, which are incorporated by reference
in this prospectus and will be sent to Net Perceptions's shareholders upon
request. See "Where Can I Find More Information?" beginning on page 58.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
The rights of our shareholders are governed by Delaware corporate law and
our certificate of incorporation and bylaws.
NET PERCEPTIONS
The rights of Net Perceptions's shareholders are governed by Delaware
corporate law and Net Perceptions's certificate of incorporation and bylaws.
AUTHORIZED CAPITAL STOCK
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
After February 16, 2004, the authorized capital stock of Obsidian
Enterprises will consist of 15,000,000 shares of capital stock consisting of (i)
10,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share and (ii)
5,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.001 per share.
NET PERCEPTIONS
The authorized capital stock of Net Perceptions currently consists of
105,000,000 shares of capital stock consisting of (i) 100,000,000 shares of
common stock, par value $0.0001 per share and (ii) 5,000,000 shares of preferred
stock, par value $0.0001 per share.
NUMBER, CLASSIFICATION AND ELECTION OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
Our bylaws provide that the board of directors shall have not less than
three members, who shall be elected at the annual meeting of our shareholders,
in the manner described in our bylaws. Our bylaws provide that the maximum
number of directors will be nine. As of December 15, 2003, our board consisted
of 7 directors.
Our certificate of incorporation expressly disallows cumulative voting for
the election of directors.
NET PERCEPTIONS
Net Perceptions's certificate of incorporation and bylaws provide that the
number of directors shall be fixed from time to time by a majority of Net
Perceptions's board.
Neither Net Perceptions's certificate of incorporation nor Net
Perceptions's bylaws provide for or expressly disallow cumulative voting for the
election of directors.
REMOVAL OF DIRECTORS
The Delaware General Corporation Law provides that, where a corporation's
certificate of incorporation and bylaws provide for neither cumulative voting
nor division of a board into classes, any director or the entire board of
directors may be removed, with or without cause, by the holders of a majority of
the shares then entitled to vote at an election of directors.
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
Under our bylaws, directors may be removed with or without cause, by the
shareholders or the board of directors, provided that such director may be
removed by the shareholders only at a meeting of the shareholders and, provided
that there is a quorum present, by the affirmative vote of a majority of shares
of shareholders of record present in person or by proxy.
NET PERCEPTIONS
Under Net Perceptions's bylaws, subject to the rights of the holders of any
series of preferred stock or any other series or class of stock as set forth in
the certificate of incorporation to remove or elect additional directors under
specified circumstances, any director, or the entire Board of Directors, may be
removed from office at any time, with or without cause, by affirmative vote of
the holders of sixty-six and two-thirds (66 2/3%) of the voting power of the
then outstanding voting stock, voting together as a single class.
NEWLY CREATED DIRECTORSHIPS AND VACANCIES
The Delaware General Corporation Law provides that any vacancy occurring in
any office of the corporation by death, resignation, removal or otherwise, shall
be filled as the bylaws provide. In the absence of such provision, the vacancy
shall be filled by the board of directors or other governing body.
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
Our bylaws state that any vacancies caused by removal, resignation, death
or other capacity, or increase in the number of directors may be filled by a
majority vote of the remaining members of the board of directors until the next
annual meeting or special meeting of shareholders at which directors are
elected.
NET PERCEPTIONS
Net Perceptions's bylaws provide that, subject to certain rights of
stockholders set forth in Net Perceptions's certificate of incorporation,
vacancies cause by death, resignation, retirement, disqualification, removal
from office or other cause and newly created directorships resulting from any
increase in the authorized number of directors, may be filled only by
affirmative vote of a majority of the remaining directors, though less than a
quorum of the board. Net Perceptions's bylaws further provide that directors so
elected shall only hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders at
which time such directors' successors shall be duly elected.
QUORUM OF THE BOARD
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
Our bylaws provide that a majority of all the directors of the board shall
constitute a quorum.
NET PERCEPTIONS
Net Perceptions's bylaws provide that a whole number of directors equal to
at least a majority of the board shall constitute a quorum.
VOTING
The Delaware General Corporation Law provides that unless otherwise
provided in the certificate of incorporation, each stockholder shall be entitled
to one vote for each share of capital stock held by such stockholder.
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
Each share of our common stock entitles the holder to one vote which may be
voted in person or by proxy duly executed in writing.
NET PERCEPTIONS
Each share of Net Perceptions common stock entitles the holder to one vote
which may be voted in person or by proxy duly executed in writing.
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF SHAREHOLDERS
The Delaware General Corporation law provides that meetings of stockholders
may be held at such place, either within or without of Delaware, as may be
designated by or in the manner provided in the certificate of incorporation or
bylaws, or if not so designated, as determined by the board of directors.
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
Our bylaws provide that the annual meeting of shareholders shall be held at
the office of the corporation in either the State of Delaware or the State of
Indiana or at such other place within or without the State of Delaware, and on
such date in each fiscal year as may be determined by the board of directors.
NET PERCEPTIONS
Net Perceptions's bylaws provide that the annual meeting of stockholders
shall be held at such date, place and/or time as may be fixed by resolution of
the board of directors, in a place designated by the board of directors, or, if
no such designation is made, at the principal office of the corporation.
SPECIAL MEETINGS OF SHAREHOLDERS
The Delaware General Corporation Law provides that special meetings of the
stockholders may be called by the board of directors or by such person or
persons as may be authorized by the certificate of incorporation or by the
bylaws.
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
Our bylaws provide that special meetings of the shareholders may be called
at any time by the chairman of the board of directors or the president and shall
be called by the chairman of the board or the president upon a written request
to the secretary of a majority of the board of directors, or by shareholders
holding of record at least twenty-five percent (25%) of all the shares of stock
outstanding and entitled to vote.
NET PERCEPTIONS
Net Perceptions's bylaws provide that, unless otherwise required by law, a
special meeting of the stockholders may only be called by (i) the chairman of
the board, (ii) the president, (iii) any vice president, (iv) the secretary, or
(v) any assistant secretary and shall be called by any such officer at the
request in writing of a majority of the board of directors.
QUORUM OF THE SHAREHOLDERS
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
Our bylaws provide that the presence, in person or by proxy, of the holders
of a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote shall constitute a
quorum.
NET PERCEPTIONS
Net Perceptions's bylaws provide that, unless otherwise provided by law or
the certificate of incorporation, the holders of a majority of the voting power
of the outstanding shares of the corporation entitled to vote generally to elect
directors, represented in person or by proxy, shall constitute a quorum;
however, if specified business is to be voted on by a class or series voting
separately as a class or series, the holders of a majority of the voting power
of the shares of such class or series shall constitute a quorum for the purposes
of transacting such business.
SHAREHOLDER ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
Our bylaws provide for action by unanimous written consent of the
shareholders in lieu of a meeting.
NET PERCEPTIONS
Net Perceptions's certificate of incorporation and bylaws specifically
state that, unless otherwise provided by law, any action required or permitted
to be taken by the stockholders must be taken at an annual or special meeting of
such stockholders and may not be effected by any written consent.
SPECIAL VOTING REQUIREMENTS
The Delaware General Corporation Code provides that an agreement of merger
or consolidation shall be submitted to the stockholders of each constituent
corporation at an annual or special meeting for the purpose of acting on the
agreement, and further provides that due notice of the time, place and purpose
of the meeting shall be mailed to each holder of stock, whether voting or
nonvoting, of the corporation at the stockholder's address as it appears on the
records of the corporation, at least 20 days prior to the date of the meeting.
The notice shall contain a copy of the agreement or a brief summary thereof, as
the directors shall deem advisable. At the meeting, the agreement shall be
considered and a vote taken for its adoption or rejection. If a majority of the
outstanding stock of the corporation entitled to vote thereon shall be voted for
the adoption of the agreement, that fact shall be certified on the agreement by
the secretary or assistant secretary of the corporation.
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
Our certificate of incorporation is silent regarding approval of plans of
merger or share exchange.
NET PERCEPTIONS
Net Perceptions's certificate of incorporation is silent regarding approval
by holders of common stock of plans of merger or share exchange.
AMENDMENTS OF CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
The Delaware General Corporation Law provides that after a corporation has
received payment for any of its capital stock, it may amend its certificate of
incorporation, from time to time, in any and as many respects as may be desired,
so long as its certificate of incorporation as amended would contain only such
provisions as it would be lawful and proper to insert in an original certificate
of incorporation filed at the time of the filing of the amendment; and, if a
change in stock or the rights of stockholders, or an exchange, reclassification,
subdivision, combination or cancellation of stock or rights of stockholders is
to be made, such provisions as may be necessary to effect such change, exchange,
reclassification, subdivision, combination or cancellation.
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
Our certificate of incorporation is silent regarding requirements for
amending Obsidian Enterprises' certificate of incorporation.
NET PERCEPTIONS
Net Perceptions's certificate of incorporation requires that the
affirmative vote of the holders of at least 75% of the voting power of all of
the then outstanding shares of the capital stock of Net Perceptions, voting
together as a single class, to amend or repeal any provision of the Net
Perceptions's certificate of incorporation, except that only a majority of
voting power is required to approve an amendment or repeal of the articles of
Net Perceptions certificate of incorporation related to the corporation's name,
address and nature or business purpose.
AMENDMENTS OF BYLAWS
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES
Our certificate of incorporation provides that the board of directors is
authorized to alter amend or repeal the bylaws or to adopt new bylaws. Our
bylaws further provide that shareholders entitled to vote in the election of
directors may amend or repeal the bylaws or adopt new bylaws, and may amend or
repeal any bylaws adopted by the board of directors.
NET PERCEPTIONS
Net Perceptions's bylaws provide that the bylaws may be amended, altered,
added to, rescinded or repealed at any meeting of the board of directors or of
the stockholders, provided that notice of the proposed change was given in the
notice of the meeting and, in the case of a meeting of the board of directors,
in a notice given no less than twenty-four (24) hours prior to the meeting;
provided, however, that notwithstanding any other provisions of the bylaws or
any provision of law which might otherwise permit a lesser vote or a no vote,
but in addition to any affirmative vote of the holders of any particular class
or series of the stock required by the law, the certificate of incorporation or
the bylaws, the affirmative vote of the holders of at least eighty percent (80%)
of the voting power of the then outstanding voting stock, voting together as a
single class, shall be required in order for the stockholders to alter, amend or
repeal any provision of the bylaws or to adopt any additional bylaw.
EXERCISABILITY OF NET PERCEPTIONS'S PREFERRED STOCK PURCHASE RIGHTS
The following description of the Rights is based upon publicly available
documents. This description does not purport to be complete and is qualified in
its entirety by reference to the Rights Agreement which is filed as Exhibit 1 to
Net Perceptions's registration statement on Form 8-A12G, filed with the SEC on
June 6, 2001.
On June 1, 2001, Net Perceptions's Board declared a dividend distribution
of one Right for each outstanding share of common stock of Net Perceptions, par
value $0.0001 per share (the "Common Stock"). The dividend was paid to
stockholders of record at the close of business on June 14, 2001. As described
in the Rights Agreement dated June 1, 2001, between Net Perceptions and Wells
Fargo Bank Minnesota, N.A., as Rights Agent, each Right entitled the registered
holder to purchase from Net Perceptions a unit consisting of one one-thousandth
of a share of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.0001
per share (the "Series A Preferred Stock"). The Rights issued were registered
pursuant to ss.12(g) of the Exchange Act on a Registration Statement Form 8-A12G
filed with the SEC on June 6, 2001.
The Rights will be evidenced by Common Stock certificates and not by
separate certificates ("Rights Certificates") until the earlier of: (i) the
close of business on the tenth business day after the first public announcement
that a person or group of affiliated or associated persons has acquired
beneficial ownership of 15% or more of the outstanding Common Stock (an
"Acquiring Person") or (ii) the close of business on the tenth business day
following the commencement of a tender or exchange offer the consummation of
which would result in a person or group becoming an Acquiring Person. The
earlier of such dates is referred to as the "Distribution Date."
As soon as practicable following the Distribution Date, separate Rights
Certificates will be mailed to holders of record of the Common Stock as of the
close of business on the Distribution Date and such separate Rights Certificates
alone will evidence the Rights as of and after the Distribution Date. The Rights
will expire on the earliest of (i) June 14, 2011 (the "Final Expiration Date"),
(ii) the time at which the Rights are redeemed as described below, or (iii) the
time at which Net Perceptions's Board orders the exchange of the Rights.
Following the Distribution Date, and until one of the further events
described below, holders of the Rights will be entitled to receive, upon
exercise and the payment of $15.00 per Right (adjusted from time to time as
described below, the "Purchase Price"), one one-thousandth of a share of the
Series A Preferred Stock.
Unless the Rights are earlier redeemed, following any person becoming an
Acquiring Person, each holder of a Right which has not theretofore been
exercised (other than Rights beneficially owned by the Acquiring Person, which
will thereafter be void) will thereafter upon exercise at the then-current
Purchase Price have the right to receive, in lieu of one one-thousandth of a
share of the Series A Preferred Stock, Common Stock (or, in certain
circumstances as determined by Net Perceptions's Board, cash, other property or
securities) having a value equal to the then-current Purchase Price multiplied
by the number of one one-thousandths of a share of Series A Preferred Stock to
which that person would have been entitled immediately prior to the occurrence
of a person becoming an Acquiring Person and divided by 50% of the Current
Market Price, calculated by taking the average of the daily closing prices per
share of such Common Stock for the thirty (30) consecutive trading days
immediately prior to such date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Rights shall
not be exercisable, following a person becoming an Acquiring Person, until Net
Perceptions's right of redemption has expired, as described below.
Similarly, unless the Rights are earlier redeemed, in the event that, after
the Share Acquisition Date (as defined below), (i) Net Perceptions is acquired
in a merger or other business combination transaction, or (ii) 50% or more of
Net Perceptions's consolidated assets, cash flow or earning power are sold, Net
Perceptions will make proper provision so that each holder of a Right which has
not theretofore been exercised (other than Rights beneficially owned by the
Acquiring Person, which will thereafter be void) will thereafter have the right
to receive, upon exercise at the then-current Purchase Price, shares of common
stock of the acquiring company having a value equal to the then-current Purchase
Price multiplied by the number of one one-thousandths of a share of Series A
Preferred Stock to which that person would have been entitled immediately prior
to the occurrence of a person becoming an Acquiring Person and divided by 50% of
the Current Market Price, calculated by taking the average of the daily closing
prices per share of such common stock of the acquiring company for the thirty
(30) consecutive trading days immediately prior to such date.
At any time after the acquisition by an Acquiring Person of 15% or more of
Net Perceptions's outstanding Common Stock and prior to the acquisition by such
Acquiring Person of 50% or more of the outstanding Common Stock, Net
Perceptions's Board may exchange the Rights (other than Rights owned by the
Acquiring Person) in whole or in part, at an exchange ratio of one share of
Common Stock per Right.
At any time on or prior to the earlier of (i) the close of business on the
tenth day following the date of the first public announcement that an Acquiring
Person has become such (the "Stock Acquisition Date") or (ii) the Final
Expiration Date, the Company may redeem the Rights in whole, but not in part, at
a redemption price of $0.01 per Right.
The Purchase Price, the number of Rights, and the number of Preferred Stock
or other securities or property issuable upon exercise of the Rights are subject
to adjustment from time to time, in connection with the dilutive issuance by Net
Perceptions as set forth in the Rights Agreement. With certain exceptions, no
adjustment in the Purchase Price will be required until cumulative adjustments
require an adjustment of at least 1% in such Purchase Price.
No fractional portion of less than integral multiples of one share of
Common Stock will be issued upon exercise of a Right and in lieu thereof, an
adjustment in cash will be made based on the market price of the Common Stock on
the last trading date prior to the date of exercise.
Until a Right is exercised, the holder thereof, as such, will have no
rights as a stockholder of Net Perceptions (other than any rights resulting from
such holder's ownership of Common Stock), including, without limitation, the
right to vote or to receive dividends.
The provisions of the Rights Agreement may be supplemented or amended in
any manner prior to the close of business on the Distribution Date without the
approval of the Rights holders. After the Distribution Date, the provisions of
the Rights Agreement may be amended without the approval of Rights holders only
in order to cure any ambiguity, defect or inconsistency, to make changes which
do not adversely affect the interests of the Rights holders (excluding the
interests of any Acquiring Person), or to shorten or lengthen any time period
under the Rights Agreement; provided, however, that no amendment to lengthen the
time period governing redemption shall be made at such time as the Rights are
not redeemable. Notwithstanding anything in the Rights Agreement to the
contrary, the Rights Agreement may not be amended at a time when the Rights are
not redeemable.
Series A Preferred Stock purchasable upon exercise of the Rights will not
be redeemable. Each share of Series A Preferred Stock will be entitled to a
cumulative dividend equal to the greater of $0.01 or 1,000 times the dividend on
Common Stock. In the event of liquidation, the holders of the Series A Preferred
Stock will be entitled to a minimum preferential liquidation payment equal to
$1,000 per share, plus an amount equal to accrued and unpaid dividends and
distributions thereon. Each share of Series A Preferred Stock will have 1,000
votes, voting together with the Common Stock. In the event of any merger,
consolidation or other transaction in which the shares of Common Stock are
charged or exchanged, each share of Series A Preferred Stock will be entitled to
receive 1,000 times the amount received per share of Common Stock.
Because of the nature of the dividend, liquidation and voting rights of the
shares of Series A Preferred Stock, the value of one one-thousandth interest in
a share of Series A Preferred Stock purchasable upon exercise of each Right
should approximate the value of one share of Common Stock.
The exchange offer is conditioned upon, among other things, Net
Perceptions's Board redeeming the Rights prior to the issuance of any Series A
Preferred Stock, or our being satisfied, in our reasonable discretion, that the
Rights have been invalidated or are otherwise inapplicable to the exchange offer
and the merger of Net Perceptions and Obsidian (or one of our subsidiaries) as
described herein.
Unless the Rights Condition is satisfied, Net Perceptions's stockholders
will be required to tender one Right (or, if the Right has been exercised, one
one-thousandth of a share of Series A Preferred Stock) for each share of Common
Stock tendered in order to effect a valid tender of Shares in accordance with
the procedures set forth in Section o. Unless the Distribution Date occurs, a
tender of Common Stock will also constitute a tender of the Rights.
Obsidian believes that, under the circumstances of the exchange offer and
under applicable law, Net Perceptions's Board has a fiduciary obligation to
redeem the Rights (or amend the Rights Agreement such that the exchange offer
will not result in Obsidian becoming an Acquiring Person or otherwise trigger a
Stock Acquisition Date), and Obsidian is hereby requesting that Net
Perceptions's Board do so. However, there can be no assurance that Net
Perceptions's Board will redeem the Rights (or amend the Rights Agreement).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Net Perceptions is subject to the informational requirements of the
Exchange Act and in accordance therewith files periodic reports, proxy
statements and other information with the SEC relating to its business,
financial condition and other matters. Net Perceptions is required to disclose
in such proxy statements certain information, as of particular dates, concerning
Net Perceptions's directors and officers, their remuneration, stock options
granted to them, the principal holders of Net Perceptions's securities and any
material interest of such person in transactions with Net Perceptions. Such
reports, proxy statements and other information may be inspected at the public
reference facility maintained by the SEC at Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. Copies of such material can also be obtained at
prescribed rates from the Public Reference Section of the SEC at Judiciary
Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549, or free of charge at the
website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov.
WHERE CAN I FIND MORE INFORMATION?
We and Net Perceptions file annual, quarterly and special reports, proxy
statements and other information with the SEC. Our commission file number is
0-17430 and Net Perceptions's commission file number is 000-25781. You may read
and copy this information at the SEC's Public Reference Room:
Public Reference Room
450 Fifth Street, N.W.
Room 1024
Washington, D.C. 20549
You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by
calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330.
The SEC also maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy
statements and other information about issuers like us and Net Perceptions that
file electronically with the SEC. The address of that site is
http://www.sec.gov.
We filed a registration statement on Form S-4 with the SEC under the
Securities Act to register our common stock to be issued in this exchange offer
and the proposed merger. This prospectus is a part of that registration
statement. As allowed by SEC rules, this prospectus does not contain all the
information you can find in the registration statement or the exhibits to the
registration statement. Shareholders may obtain copies of the Form S-4 and our
Schedule TO, and any amendments to those documents, in the manner described
above.
The SEC allows us to incorporate by reference information into this
prospectus, which means that we can disclose important information to you by
referring you to another document filed separately with the SEC. The information
incorporated by reference is deemed to be part of this prospectus, except for
any information superseded by information contained directly in this prospectus
or in any subsequently filed document that is deemed to be incorporated by
reference into this document. Any statement so modified or superseded will not
be deemed, except as so modified or superseded, to constitute a part of this
prospectus.
This prospectus incorporates by reference the documents listed below that
we and Net Perceptions have previously filed with the SEC. These documents
contain important information about us and Net Perceptions and their business,
financial condition and results of operations.
The following documents filed by us with the SEC are incorporated by
reference:
o Annual Report on Form 10-K, for the fiscal year ended October 31,
2002, as amended on August 25, 2003;
o Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31,
2003, as amended on August 25, 2003, and for the quarters ended
April 30, 2003 and July 31, 2003;
o Current Reports on Form 8-K filed on November 6, 2002 and
February 11, 2003;
o Proxy Statement for the 2003 Annual Meeting of Shareholders as
filed on November 4, 2003; and
o The description of our common stock set forth in our registration
statement filed by us pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act,
including any amendment or report filed for purposes of updating
the description.
The following documents filed by Net Perceptions with the SEC are
incorporated by reference:
o Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31,
2002;
o Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31,
2003, June 30, 2003, and September 30, 2003;
o Current Reports on Form 8-K filed on April 28, 2003, July 24,
2003, August 6, 2003, September 12, 2003, and October 21, 2003;
o Proxy Statement for the 2003 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, as
filed on April 29, 2003;
o The description of Net Perceptions common stock set forth in Net
Perceptions's registration statement filed by Net Perceptions
pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act, including any
amendment or report filed for purposes of updating the
description; and
o Registration Statement on Form 8-A for the rights issued under
the Net Perceptions Rights Agreement dated as of June 1, 2001, as
filed on June 6, 2001.
All documents filed by us or Net Perceptions pursuant to Section 13(a),
13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act from the date of this prospectus to the
date that the exchange offer expires or is terminated shall also be deemed to be
incorporated by reference in this prospectus.
Documents incorporated by reference are available from us without charge
upon request to our information agent, Innisfree M&A Incorporated, toll-free at
(888) 750-5834. In order to ensure timely delivery, any request should be
submitted no later than January 21, 2004 (5 business days before the initial
scheduled expiration date of our exchange offer). If you request any
incorporated documents from us, we will mail the documents and all exhibits
specifically incorporated by reference in the documents to you by first class
mail, or another equally prompt means, within one business day after we receive
your request.
NET PERCEPTIONS INFORMATION
While we have included in this prospectus information concerning Net
Perceptions known to us based on publicly available information (primarily
filings by Net Perceptions with the SEC), we are not affiliated with Net
Perceptions, and Net Perceptions has not permitted us to have access to their
books and records. Therefore, non-public information concerning Net Perceptions
was not available to us for the purpose of preparing this prospectus, and we
were not involved in the preparation of that information. We have no knowledge
that would indicate that statements relating to Net Perceptions contained or
incorporated by reference in this prospectus are inaccurate or incomplete.
We have requested that Net Perceptions provide us with information required
for complete disclosure regarding the businesses, operations, financial
condition and management of Net Perceptions. We will amend or supplement this
prospectus to provide any and all information we receive from Net Perceptions,
if we receive the information before our exchange offer expires and we consider
it to be material, reliable and appropriate.
We have requested Net Perceptions to permit its auditor to consent to the
use in the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part of the
audit report included in Net Perceptions's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2002. We do not know whether Net Perceptions will permit
its auditor to give that consent. The absence of that consent may limit your
recovery on certain claims. In particular, and without limitation, you will not
be able to assert claims against Net Perceptions's auditors under Section 11 of
the Securities Act for any untrue statement of a material fact contained in Net
Perceptions's consolidated financial statements which appear in its Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002 or any omission to
state a material fact required to be stated therein.
LEGAL MATTERS
The legality of our common stock offered by this exchange offer will be
passed upon by Barnes & Thornburg, Indianapolis, Indiana.
EXPERTS
The consolidated financial statements of Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. and
subsidiaries as of October 31, 2002 and 2001, and for each of the periods in the
three year period ended October 31, 2002, have been incorporated by reference in
this prospectus in reliance upon the reports of McGladrey & Pullen, LLP,
independent auditors, incorporated by reference in this prospectus, and upon the
authority of said firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
Net Perceptions has not permitted its auditor to consent to the use in the
registration statement of which this prospectus is a part of the audit report
included in Net Perceptions's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 2002.
UNAUDITED CONDENSED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following selected unaudited condensed pro forma balance sheet is
derived from the balance sheets of Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. as of July 31,
2003 and Net Perceptions as of September 30, 2003. The unaudited pro forma
balance sheets reflect Obsidian's purchase of Net Perceptions using the purchase
method of accounting and assumes that such acquisition was consummated as of
July 31, 2003. The following unaudited condensed pro forma combined statements
of operations for the nine months ended July 31, 2003 and the year ended
December 31, 2003 give effect to the acquisition of Net Perceptions as if it
occurred at the beginning of the periods presented.
The adjustments necessary to fairly present the unaudited condensed pro
forma combined financial data have been made based on available information and
in the opinion of management are reasonable. Assumptions underlying the pro
forma adjustments are described in the accompanying notes, which should be read
in conjunction with this unaudited condensed pro forma combined financial data.
The unaudited condensed pro forma combined financial data is for
comparative purposes only and does not purport to represent what Obsidian's
financial position or results of operations would actually have been had the
events noted above in fact occurred on the assumed dates or to project the
financial position or results of operations of Obsidian for any future date or
future period. The unaudited condensed pro forma combined financial data should
be read in conjunction with the notes hereto and other information included
elsewhere in this prospectus.
Because no determination has been made by Obsidian's management to either
continue operating the remaining business of Net Perceptions or to dispose of
it, two separate pro forma presentations of operating data have been prepared.
Because Obsidian has not been able to perform any due diligence regarding the
fair value of Net Perceptions's operating assets, the pro forma balance sheets
under either course of action are not materially different at this time.
Therefore, only one pro forma balance sheet has been presented. However, upon
completing such due diligence and determining the value of such operating
assets, the pro forma balance sheets for either course of action will most
likely be materially different. Furthermore, once the final determination is
made of the fair values acquired and the final purchase price allocation is
made, the pro forma operating data as presented will change and such change
could be material.
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES, INC. AND NET PERCEPTIONS, INC.
UNAUDITED CONDENSED PRO FORMA COMBINED BALANCE SHEET
JULY 31, 2003
(in thousands)
Historical
Obsidian Net Pro Forma Pro Forma
Enterprises Perceptions Adjustments Combined
---------------- ---------------- --------------- -------------
September 30,
July 31, 2003 2003
---------------- ----------------
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 329 $ 12,187 $ 173 (A) $ 11,327
(850)(F)
(512)(E)
Marketable Securities 80 - - 80
Accounts receivable, net 4,597 153 - 4,750
Accounts receivable, related parties 229 - - 229
Inventories, net 7,692 - - 7,692
Prepaid expenses & other current assets 903 792 - 1,695
------------- ------------ --------- ---------
Total Current Assets 13,830 13,132 (1,189) 25,773
Plant, Property & Equipment, net 24,271 90 - 24,361
Goodwill and other intangibles 7,996 - 5,318 (D) 13,314
Other Assets 28 336 - 364
------------- ------------ --------- ---------
Total Assets $ 46,125 $ 13,558 $4,129 $ 63,812
============= =========== ========= =========
See page F-3 for Notes to Unaudited Condensed Pro Forma Combined Balance Sheet.
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES, INC. AND NET PERCEPTIONS, INC.
UNAUDITED CONDENSED PRO FORMA COMBINED BALANCE SHEET
JULY 31, 2003
(in thousands)
Historical
Obsidian Net Pro Forma Pro Forma
Enterprises Perceptions Adjustments Combined
---------------- ---------------- --------------- ---------------
September 30,
July 31, 2003 2003
---------------- ----------------
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Current Liabilities:
Current Portion of Long term debt $ 6,889 $ - $ - $ 6,889
Current Portion of Long term debt, related
parties 73 - - 73
Accounts Payable and accrued expenses 4,871 332 - 5,203
Accounts Payable, related parties 805 - - 805
Deferred Revenue - 626 - 626
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total Current Liabilities 12,638 958 - 13,596
Long-term debt, related parties 13,107 - - 13,107
Long-term debt, net of current portion 20,155 - - 20,155
Deferred income tax liabilities 599 - - 599
Mandatory redeemable stock 1,462 - - 1,462
Stockholders' Equity:
Common Stock 3 2 (2)(B) 1
(2)(C)
Preferred stock 5 - (5)(C) -
Additional Paid-in-Capital 11,873 233,760 (233,760)(B) 29,121
17,248 (C)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive
Income (106) - - (106)
Accumulated Deficit (13,611) (221,162) 221,162 (B) (14,123)
(512)(E)
- - - -
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total Stockholders' Equity
(1,836) 12,600 4,129 14,893
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity $ 46,125 $ 13,558 $ 4,129 $ 63,812
=========== =========== =========== ===========
See page F-3 for Notes to Unaudited Condensed Pro Forma Combined Balance Sheet.
OBSIDIAN ENTERPRISES, INC. AND NET PERCEPTIONS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED PRO FORMA COMBINED BALANCE SHEET
JULY 31, 2003
(in thousands)
(A) Represents cash received and issuance of Net Perceptions
shares under existing stock options as follows:
Option shares issued 589
Average exercise price $ 0.29
-------
Cash received $ 173
-------
No tax effect has been recorded on the exercise of the
options based on the historical losses.
(B) Represents the elimination of equity of Net Perceptions in
purchase accounting
(C) Represents the purchase price for Net Perceptions based on
the ten day trading average of Obsidian stock and an
exchange price of 1/25th share of Obsidian for each share of
Net Perceptions
Total shares Net
Perceptions as of
9/30/03 28,145
Option shares assumed exercised 589
-------
Total shares to acquire 28,734
Exchange ratio 2
-------
Shares Obsidian issued 57,469
Average price Obsidian $ .30
-------
$17,241
-------
Prior to the transaction, the Company will complete the
conversion of all Series C and Series D preferred stock to
common and complete a reverse split of its common shares of
one share for each 50 outstanding.
On a pro forma basis, the reverse split will result in
1,149,374 shares being issued to the Net Perceptions
stockholders.
The addition to paid in capital is based on the following:
Market value of stock issued $17,241
Reclassification from common stock to
reflect reverse split 2
Reclassification from preferred stock
to reflect conversion 5
-------
Net addition to paid in capital $17,248
-------
(D) For purposes of this pro forma presentation, the net assets
of Net Perceptions are assumed to reflect the estimated fair
value of the respective assets and liabilities. Accordingly,
the cost of acquisition in excess of net assets acquired is
presented as goodwill. Until Obsidian has opportunity to
complete due diligence and determine the value of the assets
and liabilities, no objective determination can be made
regarding the classification of the excess. Such
determination, when complete, most likely will differ
materially from the pro forma presentation. For purposes of
the pro forma, goodwill has been calculated as follows:
Issuance of shares of Obsidian common $17,241
Estimated transaction costs 850
-------
Estimated purchase price $18,091
Identifiable assets and
liabilities acquired
Current assets (13,132)
Property and equipment (90)
Other assets (336)
Cash from exercise of options (173)
Current liabilities 958
-------
Estimated goodwill $ 5,318
=======
(E) Represents payment of severance costs of Net Perception's
CEO and President of $512.
(F) Represents payment of estimated transaction costs
Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. and Net Perceptions, Inc.
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Statement of Operations
Assuming continuation of Net Perceptions Business
For the Year Ended October 31, 2002
(in thousands, except per share data)
Historical
Obsidian Net Pro Forma Pro Forma
Enterprises Perceptions Adjustments Combined
----------------------------- --------------- ----------------
October 31, December 31,
2002 2002
-----------------------------
Net Sales $ 57,274 $ 5,244 $ - $ 62,518
Cost of Sales 47,841 2,393 - 50,234
----------- ------------ -------------- ----------------
Gross Profit
9,433 2,851 - 12,284
Selling, general & administrative expenses (8,589) (14,180) (512) (A) (23,281)
Loss on asset impairment (720) (6,546) (7,266)
Insurance recovery 325 - - 325
----------- ------------ -------------- ----------------
Loss from operations 449 (17,875) (512) (17,938)
Other income (expense):
Interest expense (3,552) (24) - (3,576)
Interest income 12 2,108 - 2,120
Other income (expense) (217) (943) - (1,160)
----------- ------------ -------------- ----------------
Loss before income taxes from (3,308) (16,734) (512) (20,554)
continuing operations
Income tax benefit from continuing operations 33 - - 33
----------- ------------ -------------- ----------------
Loss from continuing operations $ (3,275) $ (16,734) $ (512) $ (20,521)
=========== ============ ============== ================
Loss per share from continuing operations
Basic and diluted $ (0.09) $ (0.61) $ - $ (5.85)
Weighted average common and common equivalent
shares outstanding
Basic and diluted 36,008 27,216 - 3,499
Pro Forma (loss) per share from continuing
operations assuming reverse stock
split of 50 to 1 and conversion of
Series C and D preferred shares
Basic and diluted $ (1.39) $ - $ - $ (5.85)
Pro Forma weighted average common and common
equivalent shares outstanding 2,350 - - 3,499
See F-10 for Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Statements of Operations.
Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. and Net Perceptions, Inc.
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Statement of Operations
Assuming no Continuation of Net Perception Business
For the Year Ended October 31, 2002
(in thousands, except per share data)
Historical
Obsidian Net Pro Forma Pro Forma
Enterprises Perceptions Adjustments Combined
-------------- -------------- --------------- -----------------
October 31, December 31,
2002 2002
-------------- --------------
Net Sales $ 57,274 $ 5,244 $ (5,244) (B) $ 57,274
Cost of Sales 47,841 2,393 (2,393) (B) 47,841
----------- ------------ -------------- ----------------
Gross Profit 9,433 2,851 (2,851) 9,433
Selling, general & administrative expenses (8,589) (14,180) (512) (A) (9,101)
14,180 (B)
Loss on asset impairment (720) (6,546) 6,546 (B) (720)
Insurance recovery 325 - - 325
----------- ------------ -------------- ----------------
Loss from operations 449 (17,875) 17,363 (63)
Other income (expense):
Interest expense (3,552) (24) 24 (B) (3,552)
Interest income 12 2,108 (1,868) (C) 252
Other income (expense) (217) (943) 943 (B) (217)
----------- ------------ -------------- ----------------
Loss before income taxes from
continuing operations (3,308) (16,734) 16,462 (3,580)
Income tax benefit from continuing operations 33 - - 33
----------- ------------ -------------- ----------------
Loss from continuing operations $ (3,275) $ (16,734) $ 16,462 $ (3,547)
=========== ============ ============== ================
Loss per share from continuing operations
Basic and diluted $ (0.09) $ (0.61) $ - $ (1.00)
Weighted average common and common equivalent
shares outstanding
Basic and diluted 36,008 27,216 - 3,499
Pro Forma (loss) per share from continuing
operations assuming reverse stock
split of 50 to 1 and conversion of
Series C and D preferred shares
Basic and diluted $ (1.39) $ - $ - $ (1.00)
Pro Forma weighted average common and common
equivalent shares outstanding 2,350 - - 3,499
See F-10 for Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Statement of Operations.
Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. and Net Perceptions, Inc.
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Statement of Operations
Assuming Continuation of Net Perception Business
For the Nine Months Ended July 31, 2003
(in thousands, except per share data)
Historical
Obsidian Net Pro Forma Pro Forma
Enterprises Perceptions Adjustments Combined
-------------- -------------- --------------- -------------
July 31, 2003 September
30, 2003
-------------- --------------
Net Sales $ 42,802 $ 1,967 $ - $ 44,769
Cost of Sales 37,445 643 - 38,088
----------- ------------ -------------- ----------------
Gross Profit 5,357 1,324 - 6,681
Selling, general & administrative expenses (6,229) (4,240) (512) (A) (10,981)
Restructuring charges - (2,251) - (2,251)
----------- ------------ -------------- ----------------
Loss from operations (872) (5,167) (512) (6,551)
Other income (expense):
Interest expense (2,577) - - (2,577)
Interest income - 610 - 610
Other income (expense) (52) 229 - 177
----------- ------------ -------------- ----------------
Loss from continuing operations
before income taxes (3,501) (4,328) (512) (8,341)
Income tax benefit from continuing operations 771 - - 771
----------- ------------ -------------- ----------------
Loss from continuing operations $ (2,730) $ (4,328) $ (512) $ (7,570)
=========== ============ ============== ================
Loss per share from continuing operations
Basic and diluted $ (0.07) $ (0.16) $ - $ (1.82)
Weighted average common and common equivalent
shares outstanding
Basic and diluted 36,008 27,735 - 4,003
Pro Forma (loss) per share from continuing
operations assuming reverse stock
split of 50 to 1 and conversion of
Series C and D preferred shares
Basic and diluted $ (.96) $ - $ - $ (1.82)
Pro Forma weighted average common and common
equivalent shares outstanding $ 2,853 $ - $ - $ 4,003
See F-10 for Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Statements of Operations.
Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. and Net Perceptions, Inc.
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Statement of Operations
Assuming No Continuation of Net Perceptions Business
For the Nine Months Ended July 31, 2003
(in thousands, except per share data)
Historical
Obsidian Net Pro Forma Pro Forma
Enterprises Perceptions Adjustments Combined
--------------- -------------- --------------- -------------
July 31, 2003 September
30, 2003
--------------- --------------
Net Sales $ 42,802 $ 1,967 $ (1,967) (B) $ 42,802
Cost of Sales 37,445 643 (643) (B) 37,445
------------- ------------- -------------- ------------
Gross Profit 5,357 1,324 (1,324) 5,357
Selling, general & administrative expenses (6,229) (4,240) (512) (A) (6,741)
4,240 (B)
Restructuring charges - (2,251) 2,251 (B) -
------------- ------------- -------------- ------------
Income (Loss) from operations (872) (5,167) 4,655 (1,384)
Other income (expense):
Interest expense (2,577) - - (2,577)
Interest income - 610 (430) (C) 180
Other income (expense) (52) 229 (229) (B) (52)
------------- ------------- -------------- ------------
Income (loss) from continuing operations
before income taxes (3,501) (4,328) 3,996 (3,833)
Income tax benefit from continuing operations 771 - - 771
------------- ------------- -------------- ------------
Income (loss) from continuing operations $ (2,730) $ (4,328) $ 3,996 $ (3,062)
============= ============= ============== ============
Loss per share from continuing operations
Basic and diluted $ (0.07) $ (0.16) $ - $ (0.70)
Weighted average common and common equivalent
shares outstanding
Basic and diluted 36,008 27,735 - 4,003
Pro Forma (loss) per share from continuing
operations assuming reverse stock split of 50
to 1 and conversion of Series C and D
preferred shares
Basic and diluted $ (.96) $ - $ - $ (0.70)
Pro Forma weighted average common and common
equivalent shares outstanding $ 2,853 $ - $ - $ 4,003
See F-10 for Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Statements of Operations.
Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. and Net Perceptions, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Statements of Operations
(A) Represents payment of bonuses and severance pay to the CEO and
President of Net Perceptions
(B) Represents removal of all Net Perceptions operating activity
under the option that Obsidian would not operate the business of
Net Perceptions on an ongoing basis. Accordingly, all operating
activity with the exception of interest income that is assumed to
be related to the Net Perceptions investment portfolio have been
eliminated.
(C) Represents reduction of interest earned as a result of a
reduction in available cash
Annex A
Dissenters' Appraisal Rights
Delaware General Corporation Law
Section 262 of the Delaware General Corporation Law states:
sec. 262 Appraisal Rights
(a) Any stockholder of a corporation of this State who holds shares
of stock on the date of the making of a demand pursuant to
subsection (d) of this section with respect to such shares, who
continuously holds such shares through the effective date of the
merger or consolidation, who has otherwise complied with
subsection (d) of this section and who has neither voted in favor
of the merger or consolidation nor consented thereto in writing
pursuant to sec. 228 of this title will be entitled to an
appraisal by the Court of Chancery of the fair value of the
stockholder's shares of stock under the circumstances described
in subsections (b) and (c) of this section. As used in this
section, the word "stockholder" means a holder of record of stock
in a stock corporation and also a member of record of a nonstock
corporation; the words "stock" and "share" mean and include what
is ordinarily meant by those words and also membership or
membership interest of a member of a nonstock corporation; and
the words "depository receipt" mean a receipt or other instrument
issued by a depository representing an interest in one or more
shares, or fractions thereof, solely of stock of a corporation,
which stock is deposited with the depository.
(b) Appraisal rights will be available for the shares of any class or
series of stock of a constituent corporation in a merger or
consolidation to be effected pursuant to sec. 251 (other than a
merger effected pursuant to sec. 251(g) of this title), sec. 252,
sec. 254, sec. 257, sec. 258, sec. 263 or sec. 264 of this title:
(1) Provided, however, that no appraisal rights under this
section will be available for the shares of any class or
series of stock, which stock, or depository receipts in
respect thereof, at the record date fixed to determine the
stockholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote at
the meeting of stockholders to act upon the agreement of
merger or consolidation, were either (i) listed on a
national securities exchange or designated as a national
market system security on an interdealer quotation system by
the national Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. or (ii)
held of record by more than 2,000 holders; and further
provided that no appraisal rights will be available for any
shares of stock of the constituent corporation surviving a
merger if the merger did not require for its approval the
vote of the stockholders of the surviving corporation as
provided in subsection (f) of sec. 251 of this title.
(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of this subsection, appraisal
rights under this section will be available for the shares
of any class or series of stock of a constituent corporation
if the holders thereof are required by the terms of an
agreement of merger or consolidation pursuant to sec. 251,
252, 254, 257, 258, 263 and 264 of this title to accept for
such stock anything except:
a. Shares of stock of the corporation surviving or
resulting from such merger or consolidation, or
depository receipts in respect thereof;
b. Shares of stock of any other corporation, or depository
receipts in respect thereof, which shares of stock (or
depository receipts in respect thereof) or depository
receipts at the effective date of the merger or
consolidation will be either listed on a national
securities exchange or designated as a national market
system security on an interdealer quotation system by
the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. or
held of record by more than 2,000 holders;
c. Cash in lieu of fractional shares or fractional
depository receipts described in the foregoing
subparagraphs a. and b. of this paragraph; or
d. Any combination of the shares of stock, depository
receipts and cash in lieu of fractional shares or
fractional depository receipts described in the
foregoing subparagraphs a., b. and c. of this
paragraph.
(3) In the event all of the stock of a subsidiary Delaware
corporation party to a merger effected under sec. 253 of
this title is not owned by the parent corporation
immediately prior to the merger, appraisal rights will be
available for the shares of the subsidiary Delaware
corporation.
(c) Any corporation may provide in its certificate of incorporation
that appraisal rights under this section will be available for
the shares of any class or series of its stock as a result of an
amendment to its certificate of incorporation, any merger or
consolidation in which the corporation is a constituent
corporation or the sale of all or substantially all of the assets
of the corporation. If the certificate of incorporation contains
such a provision, the procedures of this section, including those
set forth in subsections (d) and (e) of this section, shall apply
as nearly as is practicable.
(d) Appraisal rights shall be perfected as follows:
(1) If a proposed merger or consolidation for which
appraisal rights are provided under this section is to
be submitted for approval at a meeting of stockholders,
the corporation, not less than 20 days prior to the
meeting, shall notify each of its stockholders who was
such on the record date for such meeting with respect
to shares for which appraisal rights are available
pursuant to subsection (b) or (c) hereof that appraisal
rights are available for any or all of the shares of
the constituent corporations, and will include in such
notice a copy of this section. Each stockholder
electing to demand the appraisal of such stockholder's
shares shall deliver to the corporation, before the
taking of the vote on the merger or consolidation, a
written demand for appraisal of such stockholder's
shares. Such demand will be sufficient if it reasonably
informs the corporation of the identity of the
stockholder and that the stockholder intends thereby to
demand the appraisal of such stockholder's shares. A
proxy or vote against the merger or consolidation shall
not constitute such a demand. A stockholder electing to
take such action must do so by a separate written
demand as herein provided. Within 10 days after the
effective date of such merger or consolidation, the
surviving or resulting corporation will notify each
stockholder of each constituent corporation who has
complied with this subsection and has not voted in
favor of or consented to the merger or consolidation of
the date that the merger or consolidation has become
effective; or
(2) If the merger or consolidation was approved pursuant to
sec. 228 or sec. 253 of this title, then either a
constituent corporation before the effective date of
the merger or consolidation or the surviving or
resulting corporation within 10 days thereafter shall
notify each of the holders of any class or series of
stock of such constituent corporation who are entitled
to appraisal rights of the approval of the merger or
consolidation and that appraisal rights are available
for any or all shares of such class or series of stock
of such constituent corporation, and shall include in
such notice a copy of this section. Such notice may,
and, if given on or after the effective date of the
merger or consolidation, shall, also notify such
stockholder of the effective date of the merger or
consolidation. Any stockholder entitled to appraisal
rights may, within 20 days after the date of mailing of
such notice, demand in writing from the surviving or
resulting corporation the appraisal of such holder's
shares. Such demand will be sufficient if it reasonably
informs the corporation of the identity of the
stockholder and that the stockholder intends thereby to
demand the appraisal of such holder's shares. If such
notice did not notify stockholders of the effective
date of the merger or consolidation, either (i) each
such constituent corporation shall send a second notice
before the effective date of the merger or
consolidation notifying each of the holders of any
class or series of stock of such constituent
corporation that are entitled to appraisal rights of
the effective date of the merger or consolidation or
(ii) the surviving or resulting corporation shall send
such a second notice to all such holders on or within
10 days after such effective date; provided, however,
that if such second notice is sent more than 20 days
following the sending of the first notice, such second
notice need only be sent to each stockholder who is
entitled to appraisal rights and who has demanded
appraisal of such holder's shares in accordance with
this subsection. An affidavit of the secretary or
assistant secretary or of the transfer agent of the
corporation that is required to give either notice that
such notice has been given shall, in the absence of
fraud, be prima facie evidence of the facts stated
therein. For purposes of determining the stockholders
entitled to receive either notice, each constituent
corporation may fix, in advance, a record date that
shall be not more than 10 days prior to the date the
notice is given, provided, that if the notice is given
on or after the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, the record date shall be such effective
date. If no record date is fixed and the notice is
given prior to the effective date, the record date
shall be the close of business on the day next
preceding the day on which the notice is given.
(e) Within 120 days after the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, the surviving or resulting corporation or any
stockholder who has complied with subsections (a) and (d)
hereof and who is otherwise entitled to appraisal rights,
may file a petition in the Court of Chancery demanding a
determination of the value of the stock of all such
stockholders. Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any time
within 60 days after the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, any stockholder shall have the right to
withdraw such stockholder's demand for appraisal and to
accept the terms offered upon the merger or consolidation.
Within 120 days after the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, any stockholder who has complied with the
requirements of subsections (a) and (d) hereof, upon written
request, shall be entitled to receive from the corporation
surviving the merger or resulting from the consolidation a
statement setting forth the aggregate number of shares not
voted in favor of the merger or consolidation and with
respect to which demands for appraisal have been received
and the aggregate number of holders of such shares. Such
written statement will be mailed to the stockholder within
10 days after such stockholder's written request for such a
statement is received by the surviving or resulting
corporation or within 10 days after expiration of the period
for delivery of demands for appraisal under subsection (d)
hereof, whichever is later.
(f) Upon the filing of any such petition by a stockholder,
service of a copy thereof will be made upon the surviving or
resulting corporation, which shall within 20 days after such
service file in the office of the Register in Chancery in
which the petition was filed a duly verified list containing
the names and addresses of all stockholders who have
demanded payment for their shares and with whom agreements
as to the value of their shares have not been reached by the
surviving or resulting corporation. If the petition shall be
filed by the surviving or resulting corporation, the
petition shall be accompanied by such a duly verified list.
The Register in Chancery, if so ordered by the Court, shall
give notice of the time and place fixed for the hearing of
such petition by registered or certified mail to the
surviving or resulting corporation and to the stockholders
shown on the list at the addresses therein stated. Such
notice shall also be given by one or more publications at
least one week before the day of the hearing, in a newspaper
of general circulation published in the City of Wilmington,
Delaware or such publication as the Court deems advisable.
The forms of the notices by mail and by publication shall be
approved by the Court, and the costs thereof shall be borne
by the surviving or resulting corporation.
(g) At the hearing on such petition, the Court shall determine
the stockholders who have complied with this section and who
have become entitled to appraisal rights. The Court may
require the stockholders who have demanded an appraisal for
their shares and who hold stock represented by certificates
to submit their certificates of stock to the Register in
Chancery for notation thereon of the pendency of the
appraisal proceedings; and if any stockholder fails to
comply with such direction, the Court may dismiss the
proceedings as to such stockholder.
(h) After determining the stockholders entitled to an appraisal,
the Court shall appraise the shares, determining their fair
value exclusive of any element of value arising from the
accomplishment or expectation of the merger or
consolidation, together with a fair rate of interest, if
any, to be paid upon the amount determined to be the fair
value. In determining such fair value, the Court shall take
into account all relevant factors. In determining the fair
rate of interest, the Court may consider all relevant
factors, including the rate of interest which the surviving
or resulting corporation would have had to pay to borrow
money during the pendency of the proceeding. Upon
application by the surviving or resulting corporation or by
any stockholder entitled to participate in the appraisal
proceeding, the Court may, in its discretion, permit
discovery or other pretrial proceedings and may proceed to
trial upon the appraisal prior to the final determination of
the stockholder entitled to an appraisal. Any stockholder
whose name appears on the list filed by the surviving or
resulting corporation pursuant to subsection (f) of this
section and who has submitted such stockholder's
certificates of stock to the Register in Chancery, if such
is required, may participate fully in all proceedings until
it is finally determined that such stockholder is not
entitled to appraisal rights under this section.
(i) The Court shall direct the payment of the fair value of the
shares, together with interest, if any, by the surviving or
resulting corporation to the stockholders entitled thereto.
Interest may be simple or compound, as the Court may direct.
Payment shall be so made to each such stockholder, in the
case of holders of uncertificated stock forthwith, and the
case of holders of shares represented by certificates upon
the surrender to the corporation of the certificates
representing such stock. The Court's decree may be enforced
as other decrees in the Court of Chancery may be enforced,
whether such surviving or resulting corporation be a
corporation of this State or of any state.
(j) The costs of the proceeding may be determined by the Court
and taxed upon the parties as the Court deems equitable in
the circumstances. Upon application of a stockholder, the
Court may order all or a portion of the expenses incurred by
any stockholder in connection with the appraisal proceeding,
including, without limitation, reasonable attorney's fees
and the fees and expenses of experts, to be charged pro rata
against the value of all the shares entitled to an
appraisal.
(k) From and after the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, no stockholder who has demanded appraisal
rights as provided in subsection (d) of this section shall
be entitled to vote such stock for any purpose or to receive
payment of dividends or other distributions on the stock
(except dividends or other distributions payable to
stockholders of record at a date which is prior to the
effective date of the merger or consolidation); provided,
however, that if no petition for an appraisal shall be filed
within the time provided in subsection (e) of this section,
or if such stockholder shall deliver to the surviving or
resulting corporation a written withdrawal of such
stockholder's demand for an appraisal and an acceptance of
the merger or consolidation, either within 60 days after the
effective date of the merger or consolidation as provided in
subsection (e) of this section or thereafter with the
written approval of the corporation, then the right of such
stockholder to an appraisal will cease. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, no appraisal proceeding in the Court of Chancery
will be dismissed as to any stockholder without the approval
of the Court, and such approval may be conditioned upon such
terms as the Court deems just.
(l) The shares of the surviving or resulting corporation to
which the shares of such objecting stockholders would have
been converted had they assented to the merger or
consolidation shall have the status of authorized and
unissued shares of the surviving or resulting corporation.
[Innisfree Graphic Omitted]
The Information Agent for the Offer is:
Innisfree
M&A Incorporated
501 Madison Avenue, 20th Floor
New York, New York 10022
Banks and Brokers Call Collect: (212) 750-5833
All Others Call Toll-Free: (888) 750-5834
Part II. Information Not Required In Prospectus
Item 20. Indemnification Of Directors And Officers.
Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law allows for
indemnification of any person who has been made, or threatened to be made, a
party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding,
whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative by reason of the fact
that he or she is or was serving as a director, officer, employee or agent of
the registrant or by reason of the fact that he or she is or was serving at the
request of the registrant as a director, officer, employee or agent of another
corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise. In certain
circumstances, indemnity may be provided against expenses (including attorneys'
fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement if the person acted in
good faith and in the manner reasonably believed by him to be in, or not opposed
to, the best interests of the registrant and, with respect to any criminal
action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his conduct was
unlawful. In any proceeding by or in the right of the registrant, no
indemnification may be made if the person is found to be liable to the
corporation, unless and only to the extent the court in which the proceeding is
brought or the Delaware Court of Chancery orders such indemnification.
Section 102(b)(7) of the Delaware Corporation Law provides that a
certificate of incorporation may contain a provision eliminating or limiting the
personal liability of a director to the corporation or its stockholders for
monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director provided that such
provision shall not eliminate or limit the liability of a director (i) for any
breach of the director's duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders,
(ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional
misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii) under Section 174 (relating to
liability for unauthorized acquisitions or redemptions of, or dividends on,
capital stock) of the Delaware General Corporation Law, or (iv) for any
transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit.
The Certificate of Incorporation of Obsidian Enterprises provides that we
will, to the fullest extent permitted by the Delaware General Corporation Law,
as the same exists or may hereafter be amended, indemnify any and all persons we
have the power to indemnify under such law from and against any and all of the
expenses, liabilities or other matters referred to in or covered by such law.
Such indemnification may be provided pursuant to any Bylaw, agreement vote of
stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, both as to action in his
director or officer capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding
such office, will continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director,
officer, employee or agent, and will inure to the benefit of the heirs,
executors and administrators of such a person.
If a claim under the preceding paragraph is not paid in full by Obsidian
Enterprises within 30 days after a written claim has been received by us, the
claimant may at any time thereafter bring suit against us to recover the unpaid
amount of the claim and, if successful in whole or in part, the claimant will be
entitled to be paid also the expense of prosecuting such claim. It will be a
defense to any such action (other than an action brought to enforce a claim for
expenses incurred in defending any proceeding in advance of its final
disposition where the required undertaking, if any is required, has been
tendered to us) that the claimant has not met the standards of conduct that make
it permissible under the laws of the State of Delaware for us to indemnify the
claimant for the amount claimed, but the burden of proving such defense will be
on Obsidian Enterprises. Neither our failure (including our Board of Directors,
independent legal counsel, or our stockholders) to have made a determination
prior to the commencement of such action that indemnification of the claimant is
proper in the circumstances because he has met the applicable standard of
conduct set forth in the laws of the State of Delaware nor an actual
determination by us (including our Board of Directors, independent legal
counsel, or our stockholders) that the claimant has not met such applicable
standard of conduct, will be a defense to the action or create a presumption
that the claimant has not met the applicable standard of conduct.
To the fullest extent permitted by the laws of the State of Delaware as the
same exist or may hereafter be amended, a director of Obsidian Enterprises will
not be liable to us or our stockholders for monetary damages for breach of
fiduciary duty as a director.
[The Company has a directors and officers liability insurance policy that
will reimburse the Company for any payments that it shall make to directors and
officers pursuant to law or the indemnification provisions of its Restated
Certificate of Incorporation and that will, subject to certain exclusions
contained in the policy, further pay any other costs, charges and expenses and
settlements and judgments arising from any proceeding involving any director or
officer of the Company in his or her past or present capacity as such, and for
which he may be liable, except as to any liabilities arising from acts that are
deemed to be uninsurable.]
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act
of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the
Company pursuant to the foregoing provisions, the Company has been informed that
in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is
against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933 and is,
therefore, unenforceable.
The foregoing statements are specifically made subject to the detailed
provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law and the Certificate of
Incorporation of Obsidian Enterprises.
Item 21. Exhibits And Financial Statement Schedules.
(a) Exhibits:
Exhibit Incorporated by
No. Description Reference/Attached
--- ----------- ------------------
2.1 Acquisition Agreement and Plan of Reorganization, dated June Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
21, 2001, by and among Registrant, Danzer Industries, Inc., 2.1 to the Registrant's Report on Form
Pyramid Coach, Inc., Champion Trailer, Inc., United 8-K filed on August 15, 2001
Acquisition, Inc., U.S. Rubber Reclaiming, Inc., Obsidian
Capital Partners, L.P. and Timothy S. Durham
2.2 Memorandum of Agreement between Champion Trailer, Inc. and Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Timothy S. Durham and Terry G. Whitesell 2.1 to the Registrant's Report on Form
8-K filed on November 6, 2002
3.1(a) Certificate of Incorporation (filed with Delaware Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Secretary of State on October 4, 2001) 3.1 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
3.1(b) Amended Certificate of Incorporation (Approved on December Attached
3, 2003, but not yet effective)
3.2(a) Certificate of Designations, Preferences, Rights and Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Limitations of Series C Preferred Stock 3.2 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
3.2(b) Amended Certificate of Designations, Preferences, Rights Attached
and Limitations of Series C Preferred Stock (Approved
on December 3, 2003, but not yet effective)
3.3 Bylaws of the Registrant (Restated Effective as of Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
September 27, 2002) 3.3 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K/A for the Year Ended
October 31, 2002
3.4(a) Certificate of Designations, Preferences, Rights and Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Limitations of Series D Preferred Stock 3.4 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K/A for the Year Ended
October 31, 2002
3.4(b) Amended Certificate of Designations, Preferences, Rights Attached
and Limitations of Series D Preferred Stock (Approved
on December 3, 2003, but not yet effective)
4.1 Registration Rights Agreement, dated June 21, 2001 Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
4.1 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
4.2 Amendment and Joinder to Registration Rights Agreement, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
dated July 27, 2001 4.2 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
4.3 8.00% Convertible Debenture Issued by Registrant on July Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2
19, 2001 to HSBC Global Custody Nominee Due July 19, 2008 to Schedule 13D filed September 20,
2001 by Russell Cleveland, Renaissance
Capital Group, Inc.
4.4 8.00% Convertible Debenture Issued by Registrant on July Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3
19, 2001 to Renaissance US Growth & Income Trust PLC Due to Schedule 13D filed September 20,
July 19, 2008 2001 by Russell Cleveland, Renaissance
Capital Group, Inc.
4.5 Convertible Loan Agreement, dated July 19, 2001, Among Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Registrant, BFSUS Special Opportunities Trust PLC, 4.5 to the Registrant's Annual Report
Renaissance US Growth & Income Trust PLC and Renaissance on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
Capital Group, Inc. October 31, 2001
5.1 Legal Opinion of Barnes & Thornburg Attached
8.1 Tax Opinion of Barnes & Thornburg Attached
10.1 2001 Long Term Incentive Plan* Incorporated by reference to Appendix
E to the Registrant's Proxy Statement
filed on September 18, 2001
10.2 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated April 20, 2000, between Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Champion Trailer Company, L.P. and Harold Peck, Mary Peck, 10.2 to the Registrant's Annual Report
Champion Trailer, Ltd. (f/k/a) Champion Trailer, LLC, on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
Champion Collision, Ltd. (f/k/a) Champion Collision, October 31, 2001
L.L.C. and Brandonson, Inc.
10.3 Stock and Asset Purchase Agreement, dated December 20, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
1999, among Timothy S. Durham, Terry Whitesell, DW 10.3 to the Registrant's Annual Report
Leasing, LLC, Bobby Michael, Becky Michael, Jennifer on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
George, Pyramid Coach, Inc., Precision Coach, Inc., October 31, 2001
American Coach Works, Inc., Transport Trailer Service,
Inc., Rent-A-Box, Inc. and LBJ, LLC
10.4 Assumption Agreement and Second Amendment to Credit Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Agreement, dated June 18, 2001, among Bank One, Indiana, 10.4 to the Registrant's Annual Report
N.A., Champion Trailer, Inc. and Champion Trailer Company, on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
L.P. October 31, 2001
10.5 Credit Agreement, dated December 29, 2000, between USRR Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Acquisition Corp. and Bank One, Indiana, N.A. 10.5 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.6 First Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated June 20, 2001, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
between U.S. Rubber Reclaiming, Inc. and Bank One, 10.6 to the Registrant's Annual Report
Indiana, N.A. on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.7 Note Purchase Agreement, dated May 2, 2000, between Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Champion Trailer, Inc. and Markpoint Equity Growth Fund, 10.7 to the Registrant's Annual Report
J.V., and Related Documents on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.8 Warrant, dated May 2, 2000, from Champion Trailer Company, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
LP to Markpoint Equity Growth Fund, J.V. 10.8 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.9 Management Agreement, dated December 29, 2000, between Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Obsidian Capital Company, LLC and USRR Acquisition Corp. 10.9 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.10 Management Agreement, dated June 16, 2001, between Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Pyramid, Inc. and D.W. Leasing 10.10 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.11 Promissory Note, dated June 1, 2001, from Obsidian Capital Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Company, LLC to U.S. Rubber Reclaiming, Inc. 10.11 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.12 Promissory Note, dated June 11, 2001, from Champion Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Trailer, Inc. to Obsidian Capital Partners, LP 10.12 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.13 Purchase Agreement, dated June 5, 2001, between United Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Expressline, Inc., United Acquisition, Inc., J.J.M. 10.13 to the Registrant's Annual
Incorporated and the Shareholders of United Expressline, Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
Inc. and J.J.M. Incorporated October 31, 2001
10.14 Promissory Note, dated July 27, 2001, from United Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Acquisition, Inc. to United Expressline, Inc. 10.14 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.15 Credit Agreement, dated July 27, 2001, between United Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Acquisition, Inc. and First Indiana Bank 10.15 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.16 Loan and Security Agreement, dated January 21, 2000, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
between Danzer Industries, Inc. and Banc of America 10.16 to the Registrant's Annual
Commercial Finance Corp. Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.17 Warrant, dated August 1997, by Danzer Corp. to Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Duncan-Smith Co. and Letter Agreement, dated June 21, 10.17 to the Registrant's Annual
2001, between Danzer Corp. and Duncan-Smith Co. Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.18 Stock Purchase Agreement, dated December 29, 2000, between Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
USRR Acquisition Corp. and SerVaas, Inc. 10.18 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.19 Subordinated Secured Promissory Note, dated December 29, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2000, from USRR Acquisition Corp. to SerVaas, Inc. 10.19 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.20 Supply and Consignment Agreement, dated December 29, 2000, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
between U.S.R.R. Acquisition and SerVaas, Inc. 10.20 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.21 Form of Installment Loan from Edgar County Bank & Trust Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Co. to DW Leasing Company, LLC, Related Documents and 10.21 to the Registrant's Annual
Schedule Identifying Material Details Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.22 Loan Agreement, dated December 10, 1999, between Old Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
National Bank and DW Leasing Company, LLC, and Related 10.22 to the Registrant's Annual
Documents Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.23 Form of Promissory Note from DW Leasing Company, LLC, to Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Former Shareholders of Pyramid Coach, Inc., Related 10.23 to the Registrant's Annual
Security Agreement, and Schedule Identifying Material Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
Details October 31, 2001
10.24 Form of Promissory Note from DW Leasing Company, LLC to Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Star Financial Bank, Related Documents and Schedule 10.24 to the Registrant's Annual
Identifying Material Details Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.25 Form of Lock-Up Agreement, dated July 19, 2001, and Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Schedule Identifying Material Details 10.25 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.26 Master Lease Agreement, dated May 17, 2000, between Old Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
National Bank and DW Leasing Company, LLC, and Related 10.26 to the Registrant's Annual
Documents Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.27 Loan Agreement, dated June 1, 2000, between DW Leasing Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Company LLC and Regions Bank and Security Agreement 10.27 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.28 Business Loan Agreement (Asset Based), dated August 15, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2001, between Danzer Industries, Inc. and Bank of America, 10.28 to the Registrant's Annual
N.A. Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.29 1999 Stock Option Plan* Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.29 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.30 Amendment to Acquisition Agreement and Plan of Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Reorganization, dated December 28, 2001, between 10.30 to the Registrant's Annual
Registrant and Obsidian Leasing Company, Inc. Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.31 Agreement and Plan of Reorganization and Corporate Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Separation, dated December 28, 2001, between DW Leasing 10.31 to the Registrant's Annual
LLC and Obsidian Leasing Company, Inc. Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.32 Assignment and Assumption Agreement, dated February 19, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2002, between Champion Trailer, Inc. and DW Leasing, LLC 10.1 to the Registrant's Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter
Ended April 30, 2002
10.33 Assignment and Assumption Agreement, dated February 20, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2002, between DW Leasing, LLC and Fair Holdings, Inc. 10.2 to the Registrant's Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter
Ended April 30, 2002
10.34 Agreement to Purchase Subordinated Secured Promissory Note Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
and Supply and Consignment Agreement, dated February 26, 10.3 to the Registrant's Quarterly
2002, among SerVaas, Inc., the Beurt SerVaas Revocable Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter
Trust, U.S. Rubber Reclaiming, Inc., Obsidian Enterprises, Ended April 30, 2002
Inc. and DC Investments, LLC
10.35 Replacement Promissory Note, dated February 26, 2002, from Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. to Fair Holdings, Inc. in the 10.35 to the Registrant's Annual
principal amount of $700,000 due March 1, 2007 Report on Form 10-K/Aor the Year Ended
October 31, 2002
10.36 Promissory Note from Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. in favor Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
of Fair Holdings, Inc. in the principal amount of $570,000 10.5 to the Registrant's Quarterly
due February 1, 2007 Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter
Ended April 30, 2002
10.37 Subscription Agreement of Fair Holdings, Inc. for 186,324 Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
shares of Series C Preferred Stock 10.6 to the Registrant's Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter
Ended April 30, 2002
10.38 Subscription Agreement of Obsidian Capital Partners, LP Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
for 402,906 shares of Series C Preferred Stock 10.7 to the Registrant's Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter
Ended April 30, 2002
10.39 Second Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated August 28, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2002, between United Expressline, Inc. and First Indiana 10.1 to the Registrant's Quarterly
Bank, N.A. Report on Form 10-Q filed for the
Quarter Ended July 31, 2002
10.40 Promissory Note, dated January 17, 2002, from DW Leasing Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Company, LLC, to Fair Holdings, Inc. 10.40 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.41 Promissory Note, dated September 3, 2002, from Obsidian Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Enterprises, Inc., to Fair Holdings, Inc. 10.41 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.42 Promissory Note, dated January 9, 2002, from Obsidian Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Enterprises, Inc. to Fair Holdings, Inc. 10.42 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.43 Credit Agreement, dated October 31, 2002, between Obsidian Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Leasing Company, Inc. and Old National Bank, N.A. and 10.43 to the Registrant's Annual
Related Documents Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.44 Stock Purchase Agreement, dated July 27, 2001, between Incorporated by reference to Exhibit A
Danzer Corporation and The Huntington Capital Investment to the Schedule 13G filed by The
Company. Huntington Capital Investment Company
on August 6, 2001.
10.45 Loan Agreement, dated September 24, 2002, between Edgar Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
County Bank & Trust Co. and Obsidian Leasing Company, Inc. 10.45 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.46 Term Promissory Note, dated September 26, 2002, from Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Obsidian Leasing Company, Inc. to Fair Holdings, Inc. 10.46 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.47 Note Purchase Agreement, dated July 27, 2001, between Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
United Acquisition, Inc. and The Huntington Capital 10.47 to the Registrant's Annual
Investment Company. Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.48 Limited Forbearance Agreement, dated October 14, 2002, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
among Danzer Industries, Inc., Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. 10.48 to the Registrant's Annual
and Bank of America, N.A. Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.49 Revolving Credit, Term Loan and Security Agreement, dated Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
October 25, 2002, between PNC Bank, N.A. and U.S. Rubber 10.49 to the Registrant's Annual
Reclaiming, Inc. and Related Documents Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.50 Term Promissory Note, dated October 31, 2002, from DW Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Leasing Company, LLC to Fair Holdings, Inc. 10.50 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.51 Rental Agreement, dated October 1, 2002, between DW Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Trailer, LLC and Danzer Industries, Inc. 10.51 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.52 Commercial Equipment Lease Agreement, dated August 1, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2002, between Fair Holdings, Inc. and Danzer Industries, 10.52 to the Registrant's Annual
Inc. Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.53 Commercial Equipment Lease Agreement, dated August 1, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2002, between Fair Holdings, Inc. and Obsidian 10.53 to the Registrant's Annual
Enterprises, Inc. Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
21 List of Subsidiaries Attached
23 Consent of McGladrey & Pullen, LLP Attached
24 Power of Attorney Attached
* Indicates Exhibits that describe or evidence management contracts or
compensatory plans or arrangements required to be filed as Exhibits to
this S-4 Registration Statement. Item 22. Undertakings.
The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes:
(A)(1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are
being made, a post-effective amendment to this registration
statement:
(i) To include any prospectus required by Section
10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933.
(ii) To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events
arising after the effective date of 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
Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the
aggregate, the changes in volume and price
represent no more than a 20% change in the maximum
aggregate offering price set forth in the
"Calculation of Registration Fee" table in the
effective registration statement.
(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.
(2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the
Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment
shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating
to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such
securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial
bona fide offering thereof.
(3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective
amendment any of the securities being registered which
remain unsold at the termination of the offering.
(B) That, for purposes of determining any liability under the
Securities Act of 1933, each filing of the registrant's
annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (and each filing of an
employee benefit plan's annual report pursuant to Section
15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) that is
incorporated by reference in the registration statement
shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating
to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such
securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial
bona fide offering thereof.
(C) To respond to requests for information that is incorporated
by reference into the prospectus pursuant to Items 4, 10(b),
11, or 13 of this form, within one business day of receipt
of such request, and to send the incorporated documents by
first class mail or other equally prompt means. This
includes information contained in documents filed subsequent
to the effective date of the registration statement through
the date of responding to the request.
(D) To supply by means of a post-effective amendment all
information concerning a transaction, and the company being
acquired involved therein, that was not the subject of and
included in the registration statement when it became
effective.
(E) That prior to any public reoffering of the securities
registered hereunder through use of a prospectus which is a
part of this registration statement, by any person or party
who is deemed to be an underwriter within the meaning of
Rule 145(c), the issuer undertakes that such reoffering
prospectus will contain the information called for by the
applicable registration form with respect to reofferings by
persons who may be deemed underwriters, in addition to the
information called for by the other items of the applicable
form.
(F) That every prospectus: (i) that is filed pursuant to
paragraph (E) immediately preceding, or (ii) that purports
to meet the requirements of Section 10(a)(3) of the
Securities Act of 1933 and is used in connection with an
offering of securities subject to Rule 415, will be filed as
a part of an amendment to the registration statement and
will not be used until such amendment is effective, and
that, for purposes of determining any liability under the
Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment
shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating
to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such
securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial
bona fide offering thereof.
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the
Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling
persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise,
the registrant has been advised that, in the opinion of the Securities and
Exchange Commission, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed
in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a
claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by
the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or
controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action,
suit or proceeding) is asserted by such 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.
Signatures
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as
amended, or the Securities Act, the registrant has duly caused this registration
statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly
authorized, in the City of Indianapolis, State of Indiana, on December 15, 2003.
Obsidian Enterprises, Inc.
By: /s/Timothy S. Durham
--------------------------------------
Timothy S. Durham, President and
Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this registration
statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the
dates indicated.
Signature Title Date
(1) Principal Executive Officer
/s/ Timothy S. Durham
-------------------------------------- Chairman and Chief Executive December 15, 2003
Timothy S. Durham Officer
(2) Principal Financial Officer &
Principal Accounting Officer
-------------------------------------- Executive Vice President &
Rick D. Snow Chief Financial Officer December 15, 2003
(3) Majority of the Board of Directors
/S/ Timothy S. Durham
--------------------------------------
Timothy S. Durham Director December 15, 2003
--------------------------------------
D. Scott McKain Director December 15, 2003
/S/John A. Schmit
--------------------------------------
John A. Schmit Director December 15, 2003
/S/ Terry G. Whitesell
--------------------------------------
Terry G. Whitesell Director December 15, 2003
--------------------------------------
Daniel S. Laikin Director December 15, 2003
/S/ Jeffrey W. Osler
--------------------------------------
Jeffrey W. Osler Director December 15, 2003
/S/ Goodhue W. Smith, III
--------------------------------------
Goodhue W. Smith, III Director December 15, 2003
Exhibit Index
Exhibit Incorporated by
No. Description Reference/Attached
--- ----------- ------------------
2.1 Acquisition Agreement and Plan of Reorganization, dated June Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
21, 2001, by and among Registrant, Danzer Industries, Inc., 2.1 to the Registrant's Report on Form
Pyramid Coach, Inc., Champion Trailer, Inc., United 8-K filed on August 15, 2001
Acquisition, Inc., U.S. Rubber Reclaiming, Inc., Obsidian
Capital Partners, L.P. and Timothy S. Durham
2.2 Memorandum of Agreement between Champion Trailer, Inc. and Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Timothy S. Durham and Terry G. Whitesell 2.1 to the Registrant's Report on Form
8-K filed on November 6, 2002
3.1(a) Certificate of Incorporation (filed with Delaware Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Secretary of State on October 4, 2001) 3.1 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
3.1(b) Amended Certificate of Incorporation (Approved on December Attached
3, 2003, but not yet effective)
3.2(a) Certificate of Designations, Preferences, Rights and Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Limitations of Series C Preferred Stock 3.2 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
3.2(b) Amended Certificate of Designations, Preferences, Rights Attached
and Limitations of Series C Preferred Stock (Approved
on December 3, 2003, but not yet effective)
3.3 Bylaws of the Registrant (Restated Effective as of Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
September 27, 2002) 3.3 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K/A for the Year Ended
October 31, 2002
3.4(a) Certificate of Designations, Preferences, Rights and Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Limitations of Series D Preferred Stock 3.4 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K/A for the Year Ended
October 31, 2002
3.4(b) Amended Certificate of Designations, Preferences, Rights Attached
and Limitations of Series D Preferred Stock (Approved
on December 3, 2003, but not yet effective)
4.1 Registration Rights Agreement, dated June 21, 2001 Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
4.1 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
4.2 Amendment and Joinder to Registration Rights Agreement, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
dated July 27, 2001 4.2 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
4.3 8.00% Convertible Debenture Issued by Registrant on July Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2
19, 2001 to HSBC Global Custody Nominee Due July 19, 2008 to Schedule 13D filed September 20,
2001 by Russell Cleveland, Renaissance
Capital Group, Inc.
4.4 8.00% Convertible Debenture Issued by Registrant on July Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3
19, 2001 to Renaissance US Growth & Income Trust PLC Due to Schedule 13D filed September 20,
July 19, 2008 2001 by Russell Cleveland, Renaissance
Capital Group, Inc.
4.5 Convertible Loan Agreement, dated July 19, 2001, Among Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Registrant, BFSUS Special Opportunities Trust PLC, 4.5 to the Registrant's Annual Report
Renaissance US Growth & Income Trust PLC and Renaissance on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
Capital Group, Inc. October 31, 2001
5.1 Legal Opinion of Barnes & Thornburg Attached
8.1 Tax Opinion of Barnes & Thornburg Attached
10.1 2001 Long Term Incentive Plan* Incorporated by reference to Appendix
E to the Registrant's Proxy Statement
filed on September 18, 2001
10.2 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated April 20, 2000, between Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Champion Trailer Company, L.P. and Harold Peck, Mary Peck, 10.2 to the Registrant's Annual Report
Champion Trailer, Ltd. (f/k/a) Champion Trailer, LLC, on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
Champion Collision, Ltd. (f/k/a) Champion Collision, October 31, 2001
L.L.C. and Brandonson, Inc.
10.3 Stock and Asset Purchase Agreement, dated December 20, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
1999, among Timothy S. Durham, Terry Whitesell, DW 10.3 to the Registrant's Annual Report
Leasing, LLC, Bobby Michael, Becky Michael, Jennifer on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
George, Pyramid Coach, Inc., Precision Coach, Inc., October 31, 2001
American Coach Works, Inc., Transport Trailer Service,
Inc., Rent-A-Box, Inc. and LBJ, LLC
10.4 Assumption Agreement and Second Amendment to Credit Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Agreement, dated June 18, 2001, among Bank One, Indiana, 10.4 to the Registrant's Annual Report
N.A., Champion Trailer, Inc. and Champion Trailer Company, on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
L.P. October 31, 2001
10.5 Credit Agreement, dated December 29, 2000, between USRR Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Acquisition Corp. and Bank One, Indiana, N.A. 10.5 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.6 First Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated June 20, 2001, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
between U.S. Rubber Reclaiming, Inc. and Bank One, 10.6 to the Registrant's Annual Report
Indiana, N.A. on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.7 Note Purchase Agreement, dated May 2, 2000, between Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Champion Trailer, Inc. and Markpoint Equity Growth Fund, 10.7 to the Registrant's Annual Report
J.V., and Related Documents on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.8 Warrant, dated May 2, 2000, from Champion Trailer Company, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
LP to Markpoint Equity Growth Fund, J.V. 10.8 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.9 Management Agreement, dated December 29, 2000, between Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Obsidian Capital Company, LLC and USRR Acquisition Corp. 10.9 to the Registrant's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.10 Management Agreement, dated June 16, 2001, between Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Pyramid, Inc. and D.W. Leasing 10.10 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.11 Promissory Note, dated June 1, 2001, from Obsidian Capital Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Company, LLC to U.S. Rubber Reclaiming, Inc. 10.11 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.12 Promissory Note, dated June 11, 2001, from Champion Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Trailer, Inc. to Obsidian Capital Partners, LP 10.12 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.13 Purchase Agreement, dated June 5, 2001, between United Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Expressline, Inc., United Acquisition, Inc., J.J.M. 10.13 to the Registrant's Annual
Incorporated and the Shareholders of United Expressline, Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
Inc. and J.J.M. Incorporated October 31, 2001
10.14 Promissory Note, dated July 27, 2001, from United Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Acquisition, Inc. to United Expressline, Inc. 10.14 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.15 Credit Agreement, dated July 27, 2001, between United Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Acquisition, Inc. and First Indiana Bank 10.15 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.16 Loan and Security Agreement, dated January 21, 2000, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
between Danzer Industries, Inc. and Banc of America 10.16 to the Registrant's Annual
Commercial Finance Corp. Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.17 Warrant, dated August 1997, by Danzer Corp. to Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Duncan-Smith Co. and Letter Agreement, dated June 21, 10.17 to the Registrant's Annual
2001, between Danzer Corp. and Duncan-Smith Co. Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.18 Stock Purchase Agreement, dated December 29, 2000, between Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
USRR Acquisition Corp. and SerVaas, Inc. 10.18 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.19 Subordinated Secured Promissory Note, dated December 29, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2000, from USRR Acquisition Corp. to SerVaas, Inc. 10.19 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.20 Supply and Consignment Agreement, dated December 29, 2000, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
between U.S.R.R. Acquisition and SerVaas, Inc. 10.20 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.21 Form of Installment Loan from Edgar County Bank & Trust Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Co. to DW Leasing Company, LLC, Related Documents and 10.21 to the Registrant's Annual
Schedule Identifying Material Details Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.22 Loan Agreement, dated December 10, 1999, between Old Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
National Bank and DW Leasing Company, LLC, and Related 10.22 to the Registrant's Annual
Documents Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.23 Form of Promissory Note from DW Leasing Company, LLC, to Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Former Shareholders of Pyramid Coach, Inc., Related 10.23 to the Registrant's Annual
Security Agreement, and Schedule Identifying Material Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
Details October 31, 2001
10.24 Form of Promissory Note from DW Leasing Company, LLC to Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Star Financial Bank, Related Documents and Schedule 10.24 to the Registrant's Annual
Identifying Material Details Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.25 Form of Lock-Up Agreement, dated July 19, 2001, and Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Schedule Identifying Material Details 10.25 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.26 Master Lease Agreement, dated May 17, 2000, between Old Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
National Bank and DW Leasing Company, LLC, and Related 10.26 to the Registrant's Annual
Documents Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.27 Loan Agreement, dated June 1, 2000, between DW Leasing Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Company LLC and Regions Bank and Security Agreement 10.27 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.28 Business Loan Agreement (Asset Based), dated August 15, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2001, between Danzer Industries, Inc. and Bank of America, 10.28 to the Registrant's Annual
N.A. Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.29 1999 Stock Option Plan* Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.29 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.30 Amendment to Acquisition Agreement and Plan of Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Reorganization, dated December 28, 2001, between 10.30 to the Registrant's Annual
Registrant and Obsidian Leasing Company, Inc. Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.31 Agreement and Plan of Reorganization and Corporate Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Separation, dated December 28, 2001, between DW Leasing 10.31 to the Registrant's Annual
LLC and Obsidian Leasing Company, Inc. Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended
October 31, 2001
10.32 Assignment and Assumption Agreement, dated February 19, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2002, between Champion Trailer, Inc. and DW Leasing, LLC 10.1 to the Registrant's Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter
Ended April 30, 2002
10.33 Assignment and Assumption Agreement, dated February 20, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2002, between DW Leasing, LLC and Fair Holdings, Inc. 10.2 to the Registrant's Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter
Ended April 30, 2002
10.34 Agreement to Purchase Subordinated Secured Promissory Note Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
and Supply and Consignment Agreement, dated February 26, 10.3 to the Registrant's Quarterly
2002, among SerVaas, Inc., the Beurt SerVaas Revocable Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter
Trust, U.S. Rubber Reclaiming, Inc., Obsidian Enterprises, Ended April 30, 2002
Inc. and DC Investments, LLC
10.35 Replacement Promissory Note, dated February 26, 2002, from Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. to Fair Holdings, Inc. in the 10.35 to the Registrant's Annual
principal amount of $700,000 due March 1, 2007 Report on Form 10-K/Aor the Year Ended
October 31, 2002
10.36 Promissory Note from Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. in favor Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
of Fair Holdings, Inc. in the principal amount of $570,000 10.5 to the Registrant's Quarterly
due February 1, 2007 Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter
Ended April 30, 2002
10.37 Subscription Agreement of Fair Holdings, Inc. for 186,324 Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
shares of Series C Preferred Stock 10.6 to the Registrant's Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter
Ended April 30, 2002
10.38 Subscription Agreement of Obsidian Capital Partners, LP Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
for 402,906 shares of Series C Preferred Stock 10.7 to the Registrant's Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter
Ended April 30, 2002
10.39 Second Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated August 28, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2002, between United Expressline, Inc. and First Indiana 10.1 to the Registrant's Quarterly
Bank, N.A. Report on Form 10-Q filed for the
Quarter Ended July 31, 2002
10.40 Promissory Note, dated January 17, 2002, from DW Leasing Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Company, LLC, to Fair Holdings, Inc. 10.40 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.41 Promissory Note, dated September 3, 2002, from Obsidian Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Enterprises, Inc., to Fair Holdings, Inc. 10.41 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.42 Promissory Note, dated January 9, 2002, from Obsidian Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Enterprises, Inc. to Fair Holdings, Inc. 10.42 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.43 Credit Agreement, dated October 31, 2002, between Obsidian Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Leasing Company, Inc. and Old National Bank, N.A. and 10.43 to the Registrant's Annual
Related Documents Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.44 Stock Purchase Agreement, dated July 27, 2001, between Incorporated by reference to Exhibit A
Danzer Corporation and The Huntington Capital Investment to the Schedule 13G filed by The
Company. Huntington Capital Investment Company
on August 6, 2001.
10.45 Loan Agreement, dated September 24, 2002, between Edgar Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
County Bank & Trust Co. and Obsidian Leasing Company, Inc. 10.45 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.46 Term Promissory Note, dated September 26, 2002, from Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Obsidian Leasing Company, Inc. to Fair Holdings, Inc. 10.46 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.47 Note Purchase Agreement, dated July 27, 2001, between Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
United Acquisition, Inc. and The Huntington Capital 10.47 to the Registrant's Annual
Investment Company. Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.48 Limited Forbearance Agreement, dated October 14, 2002, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
among Danzer Industries, Inc., Obsidian Enterprises, Inc. 10.48 to the Registrant's Annual
and Bank of America, N.A. Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.49 Revolving Credit, Term Loan and Security Agreement, dated Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
October 25, 2002, between PNC Bank, N.A. and U.S. Rubber 10.49 to the Registrant's Annual
Reclaiming, Inc. and Related Documents Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.50 Term Promissory Note, dated October 31, 2002, from DW Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Leasing Company, LLC to Fair Holdings, Inc. 10.50 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.51 Rental Agreement, dated October 1, 2002, between DW Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
Trailer, LLC and Danzer Industries, Inc. 10.51 to the Registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.52 Commercial Equipment Lease Agreement, dated August 1, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2002, between Fair Holdings, Inc. and Danzer Industries, 10.52 to the Registrant's Annual
Inc. Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
10.53 Commercial Equipment Lease Agreement, dated August 1, Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2002, between Fair Holdings, Inc. and Obsidian 10.53 to the Registrant's Annual
Enterprises, Inc. Report on Form 10-K/A for the Year
Ended October 31, 2002
21 List of Subsidiaries Attached
23 Consent of McGladrey & Pullen, LLP Attached
24 Power of Attorney Attached
99.1 Letter of Transmittal Attached
99.2 Exchange Agent Agreement Attached
99.3 Information Agent Agreement Attached
99.4 Notice of Guaranteed Delivery (included in Exhibit 99.1) Attached
99.5 Form of Letter to Brokers, Dealers, etc. (included in Attached
Exhibit 99.1)
99.6 Form of Letter to Clients (included in Exhibit 99.1) Attached
--------
1 The selected consolidated financial data for the years ended December 31,
2002, 2001 and 2000 include the effects of the acquisition of Knowledge
Discovery One, Inc. ("KD1") in February 2000, which was accounted for under
the purchase method of accounting. See Note 4 to the Net Perceptions
Financial Statements.
2 In 2001, Net Perceptions incurred a restructuring related charge of $15.6
million, consisting of charges relating to facility consolidation and
employee terminations, losses and estimated losses on the disposal of
assets and other restructuring related charges. In 2002, Net Perceptions
incurred a restructuring related charge of $768,000 consisting primarily of
charges relating to employee terminations. See Note 6 to the Net
Perceptions Financial Statements.
3 At March 31, 2001, Net Perceptions performed an impairment assessment of
the goodwill and other intangible assets recorded in connection with the
acquisition of KD1. As a result of its review, Net Perceptions recorded a
$75.3 million impairment charge to reduce goodwill and other intangible
assets to their estimated fair values. At December 31, 2002, Net
Perceptions performed an additional impairment assessment of the remaining
goodwill and other intangible assets recorded in connection with the
acquisition of KD1. As a result of its review, Net Perceptions recorded a
$6.5 million impairment charge to reduce goodwill and other intangible
assets to zero value. See Note 4 to the Net Perceptions Financial
Statements.