Viragen, Inc.
Filing Pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3)
Registration Statement No. 333-133397
Selling Security Holder Offering Prospectus
Viragen, Inc.
15,770,160 shares of common stock
This prospectus covers the resale of an aggregate of 15,770,160 shares of our common
stock, consisting of 7,301,000 shares issuable upon conversion of Series J 24% Cumulative
Convertible Preferred Stock and 8,469,160 shares issuable upon exercise of outstanding common stock
purchase warrants issued in connection with the sale of our Series J 24% Cumulative Convertible
Preferred Stock. We will not receive any proceeds from the sale of shares by the selling security
holders.
Our common stock is listed on the American Stock Exchange under the symbol VRA. On April
13, 2006, the last reported sale price for our common stock was $0.52 per share.
This investment involves a high degree of risk. You should purchase shares only if you can
afford a complete loss. See Risk Factors beginning at page 9.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or
disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any
representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
The date of this prospectus is May 23, 2006.
No dealer, sales representative or any other person has been authorized to give any information or
to make any representations other than those contained in this prospectus and, if given or made,
such information or representation must not be relied upon as having been authorized by Viragen.
This prospectus does not constitute an offer of any securities other than those to which it relates
or an offer to sell, or a solicitation of any offer to buy, to any person in any jurisdiction where
such an offer or solicitation would be unlawful. Neither the delivery of this prospectus nor any
sale made hereunder shall, under any circumstances, create an implication that the information set
forth herein is correct as of any time subsequent to the date hereof.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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You should rely only on the information provided or incorporated by reference in this
prospectus. We have not authorized anyone to provide you with additional or different information.
This document may only be used where it is legal to sell these securities. You should not assume
that any information in this prospectus is accurate as of any date other than the date of this
prospectus.
2
ABOUT VIRAGEN
Because this is a summary, it does not contain all the information about us that may be
important to you. You should read the more detailed information and the financial statements and
related notes which are incorporated by reference in this prospectus.
Viragen, Inc. is a biotechnology company engaged in the research, development, manufacture and
commercialization of innovative technologies and products used to treat infectious diseases and
cancers in humans. We are pioneering the development of avian transgenics technology whereby we
intend to produce therapeutic proteins and antibodies in the egg whites of transgenic chickens.
Through collaborations with recognized experts, companies and institutions worldwide we are
developing leading-edge science to combat hepatitis, melanoma, ovarian cancer, breast cancer and
other cancers.
We are an international company, with our development and manufacturing operations in Umeå,
Sweden, our research and development activities in Edinburgh, Scotland, and our headquarters in
Plantation, Florida.
Our product and technology portfolio includes,
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Multiferon®, natural leukocyte-derived multi-subtype interferon alpha, used in
the treatment of a number of viral diseases and cancer indications. |
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Avian Transgenics, whereby we intend to develop and use transgenic chickens to
produce therapeutic proteins and antibodies for human use in the whites of eggs. |
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VG101, an antibody to the GD3 antigen, which is over-expressed on malignant
melanoma tumors, thereby preventing the bodys natural immune system from stopping
cancer cell growth and proliferation. |
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VG102, an antibody to the CD55 antigen, which is over-expressed on nearly all
solid cancerous tumors and which prevents the bodys natural immune system from
killing cancer cells. |
Our majority-owned subsidiary, Viragen International, Inc., whose shares are traded on the
over-the-counter Bulletin Board under the symbol VGNI, is a biopharmaceutical company engaged in
the research, development, manufacture and sale of a natural human alpha interferon product
indicated for treatment of a broad range of viral and malignant diseases. We produce our natural
human alpha interferon product under the brand name of Multiferon® from human white
blood cells, also known as leukocytes. Natural interferon-alpha is one of the bodys most
important natural defense mechanisms to foreign substances like viruses, but it also stimulates and
modulates the human immune system.
Our executive offices are located at 865 SW 78th Avenue, Suite 100, Plantation, Florida 33324.
Our telephone number is (954) 233-8746; our facsimile number is (954) 233-1414. Unless otherwise
indicated, references in this prospectus to Viragen, we, us and our are to Viragen, Inc.,
and our wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries.
3
Recent Events
Approval of Multiferon®
On February 17, 2006, Viragen, Inc. and our majority-owned subsidiary, Viragen International,
Inc., were notified that the Swedish Medical Products Agency approved Multiferon® (multi-subtype,
natural human alpha interferon) for the first-line adjuvant treatment of high-risk (Stages IIb-III)
malignant melanoma following dacarbazine (DTIC) after surgical removal of tumors. Approval for
Multiferon® in sequential combination with DTIC was granted based on clinical trial data that
demonstrated a statistically significant advantage over untreated controls in terms of overall
survival.
Series J 24% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock
On March 21, 2006, Viragen completed a private placement of Series J 24% Cumulative
Convertible Preferred Stock and warrants to purchase shares of our common stock. Viragen received
gross proceeds of approximately $5.2 million in connection with this transaction.
A more complete description of this transaction is contained elsewhere in this prospectus.
American Stock Exchange Notice
Viragen received a deficiency letter from the American Stock Exchange (Amex) dated March 1,
2006, advising that, based upon its review of Viragens financial statements included in its
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2005, Viragen does not meet an
additional continued listing standard. Specifically, Viragen is not in compliance with Section
1003(a)(i) of the Amex Company Guide, because Viragens stockholders equity is less than
$2,000,000 and it sustained losses from continuing operations and/or net losses in two of its three
most recent fiscal years.
On September 22, 2005, Viragen disclosed that it had received a deficiency letter from the
Amex dated September 20, 2005, advising that, based upon its review of Viragens financial
statements included in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2005,
Viragen is not in compliance with Amexs continued listing standards. Specifically, Viragen is not
in compliance with Section 1003(a)(ii) of the Amex Company Guide, because Viragens stockholders
equity is less than $4,000,000 and it sustained losses from continuing operations and/or net losses
in three out of its four most recent fiscal years, and Section 1003(a)(iii) of the Amex Company
Guide, because Viragens stockholders equity is less than $6,000,000 and it sustained losses from
continuing operations and/or net losses in its five most recent fiscal years.
In response to the September 20, 2005 letter from Amex, Viragen submitted a compliance plan to
Amex, which outlines Viragens plans to regain compliance with Amexs continued listing standards.
On October 25, 2005, Amex notified Viragen that it accepted Viragens plan of compliance and
granted Viragen an extension of time until March 20, 2007 to regain compliance with Amexs
continued listing standards. Viragen is subject to periodic review by Amex during the extension
period and we have provided quarterly updates to Amex regarding our progress with the plan. Failure
to make progress consistent with the plan or to regain compliance with the continued listing
standards by the end of the extension period could result in Viragens shares being delisted from
Amex.
4
Selected Financial Data
The following selected financial data should be read together with Managements Discussion
and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, the consolidated financial
statements and notes thereto and other financial information included in our Annual Report on Form
10-K for the year ended June 30, 2005, which is incorporated by reference into this prospectus. The
consolidated statements of operations data set forth below of Viragen for the fiscal years ended
June 30, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002 and 2001 and the consolidated balance sheet data as of June 30,
2005, 2004, 2003, 2002 and 2001 have been derived from Viragens audited consolidated financial
statements. The consolidated statement of operations data set forth below for the six months ended
December 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004 and the consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31,
2005 have been derived from Viragens unaudited consolidated financial statements included in our
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2005, which is incorporated by
reference into this prospectus. The following information does not give effect to Viragens
receipt of net proceeds of approximately $4.7 million from the sale of our Series J 24% Cumulative
Convertible Preferred Stock subsequent to December 31, 2005.
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Six months ended |
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December 31, |
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Year Ended June 30, |
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2005 |
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2004 |
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2005 |
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2004 |
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2003 |
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2002 |
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2001 |
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(Unaudited) |
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STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA |
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Product sales |
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$ |
202,159 |
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$ |
82,965 |
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$ |
278,784 |
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$ |
266,137 |
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$ |
630,785 |
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$ |
1,275,264 |
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Interest and other income, net |
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149,041 |
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1,443,858 |
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1,538,067 |
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632,378 |
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535,428 |
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333,130 |
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717,567 |
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Net loss |
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(9,669,313 |
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(7,908,322 |
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(26,207,706 |
)(a) |
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(18,177,164 |
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(17,348,686 |
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(11,088,832 |
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(11,007,809 |
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Net loss attributable to
common stock |
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(9,670,388 |
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(7,909,397 |
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(26,209,856 |
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(18,179,714 |
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(17,351,336 |
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(11,091,482 |
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(11,010,459 |
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Basic and diluted net loss
per common share (b) |
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(0.25 |
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(0.22 |
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(0.71 |
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(0.55 |
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(1.21 |
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(1.10 |
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(1.16 |
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Weighted average common
shares outstanding (b) |
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39,088,457 |
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36,568,385 |
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36,697,852 |
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33,183,832 |
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14,393,803 |
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10,041,571 |
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9,511,691 |
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At June 30, |
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At December 31, |
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2005 |
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2005 |
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2004 |
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2003 |
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2002 |
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2001 |
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(Unaudited) |
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BALANCE SHEET DATA |
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Working capital (deficit) |
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$ |
2,246,992 |
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$ |
(7,300,733 |
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$ |
25,181,900 |
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$ |
4,070,504 |
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$ |
(209,519 |
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$ |
6,178,436 |
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Total assets |
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15,601,395 |
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21,984,792 |
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48,219,996 |
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27,867,417 |
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20,796,604 |
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12,820,951 |
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Convertible notes and
debentures, current (c) |
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401,785 |
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16,104,994 |
(d) |
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2,224,599 |
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711,982 |
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Convertible notes and
debentures, long-term (c) |
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12,682,976 |
(d) |
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12,490,919 |
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1,827,163 |
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Long-term debt |
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636,845 |
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598,104 |
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1,072,087 |
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1,124,335 |
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1,023,948 |
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25,488 |
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Stockholders (deficit) equity |
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(581,789 |
) |
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2,593,617 |
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29,189,581 |
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15,720,208 |
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11,470,620 |
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10,292,409 |
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(a) |
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Net loss for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2005 includes a goodwill impairment charge of
approximately $6.9 million. |
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(b) |
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Outstanding share and per share amounts have been adjusted retroactively to reflect the 1:10
reverse stock split that became effective on June 15, 2004. |
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(c) |
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Net of discounts. |
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(d) |
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Subsequent to June 30, 2005, Viragen entered into agreements to extend the maturity date of
its convertible notes from March 31, 2006 to August 31, 2008. As a result of the extension of
the maturity date, the convertible notes were reclassified from current to long-term. |
5
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We have filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission a registration statement on Form S-3
under the Securities Act covering the resale of the common stock offered by this prospectus. This
prospectus, which is a part of the registration statement, does not contain all of the information
in the registration statement and the exhibits filed with it, portions of which have been omitted
as permitted by the SEC rules and regulations. For further information concerning Viragen and the
securities offered by this prospectus, we refer to the registration statement and the exhibits
filed with it. Statements contained in this prospectus as to the content of any contract or other
document referred to are not necessarily complete. Where a contract or other document is an exhibit
to the registration statement, you should review the provisions of the exhibit to which reference
is made. You may obtain these exhibits from the SEC, as discussed below.
We are required to file annual, quarterly, and current reports, proxy statements and other
information with the SEC. You may read and copy these filings, as well as the registration
statement of which this prospectus forms a part, at the SECs Public Reference Room at 100 F
Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. You may request copies of these documents by writing to the SEC
and paying the required fee for copying. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for more information
about the operation of their public reference rooms. The SEC also maintains an Internet site that
contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information filed electronically with
the SEC. The address of that site is www.sec.gov.
The SEC allows us to incorporate by reference into this prospectus information that we file
with them, which means that we can disclose important information to you by referring you to those
documents. The information incorporated by reference is an important part of this prospectus, and
information that we file with the SEC following the date of this prospectus will automatically
update and supercede this information. We incorporate by reference the documents listed below and
any documents we subsequently file with the SEC, prior to the termination of the offering, under
Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934:
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Our Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 7, 2006 filed with the SEC on April 11,
2006; |
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Our Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 21, 2006 filed with the SEC on March 24,
2006; |
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Our Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 21, 2006 filed with the SEC on March 21,
2006; |
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Our Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 7, 2006 filed with the SEC on March 13,
2006; |
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Our Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 1, 2006 filed with the SEC on March 3,
2006; |
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Our Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 17, 2006 filed with the SEC on
February 23, 2006; |
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Our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2005 filed with
the SEC on February 9, 2006; |
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Our Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 15, 2005 filed with the SEC on
December 20, 2005; |
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Our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2005 filed
with the SEC on November 9, 2005 |
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Our Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 19, 2005 filed with the SEC on October
19, 2005; |
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Our Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 20, 2005 filed with the SEC on
September 22, 2005; |
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Our Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 15, 2005 filed with the SEC on
September 15, 2005; and |
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Our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2005 filed with
the SEC on September 13, 2005. |
6
We will deliver without charge a copy of all of the information incorporated by reference in
this prospectus to each person receiving a copy of this prospectus. If you need an additional copy
of these documents, or if you would like to receive a copy of the other items referenced above, you
may request copies, at no cost, by writing or telephoning us at the following address and number:
Dennis W. Healey
Chief Financial Officer
Viragen, Inc.
865 S.W. 78th Avenue, Suite 100
Plantation, Florida 33324
Telephone Number: (954) 233-8746
Copies of our SEC filings and other information about us are also available free of charge on
our website at www.viragen.com. The information on our website is neither incorporated into, nor a
part of, this prospectus.
7
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This prospectus, and other documents that we have incorporated by reference or included by
attachment, contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements express our expectations
or predictions of future events or results. They are not guarantees and are subject to many risks
and uncertainties. There are a number of factors many beyond our control that could cause
actual events or results to be significantly different from those described in the forward-looking
statement. Any or all of our forward-looking statements in this report or in any other public
statements we make may turn out to be wrong.
Forward-looking statements might include one or more of the following:
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anticipated debt or equity fundings; |
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projections of future revenue; |
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anticipated clinical trial commencement dates, completion timelines or results; |
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anticipated receipt of regulatory approvals; |
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descriptions of plans or objectives of management for future operations,
products or services; |
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forecasts of future economic performance; and |
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descriptions or assumptions underlying or relating to any of the above items. |
Forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to
historical or current facts. They use words such as anticipate, estimate, expect, project,
intend, plan, believe or words of similar meaning. They may also use words such as, would,
should, could or may. Factors that may cause our actual results to differ materially from
those described in forward-looking statements include the risks discussed elsewhere in this
prospectus under the caption Risk Factors.
8
RISK FACTORS
An investment in our common stock is highly speculative. You should be aware you could lose
the entire amount of your investment. Prior to making an investment decision, you should carefully
read this entire prospectus and consider the following risk factors. The risks and uncertainties
described below are not the only ones we face. There may be additional risks and uncertainties that
are not known to us or that we do not consider to be material at this time. If the events described
in these risks occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be
adversely affected. This prospectus contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and
uncertainties. Our actual results may differ significantly from the results discussed in the
forward-looking statements. This section discusses the business risk factors that might cause those
differences.
Risks Related to Our Financial Condition
We have a history of losses due to lack of significant sales and regulatory approvals. If we do not
receive necessary regulatory approvals and develop profitable operations, we will need to terminate
our operations. As a result, investors may lose their entire investment.
Since the organization of Viragen, we have incurred operating losses. Losses have totaled
approximately:
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$9.7 million for the six month period ended December 31, 2005; |
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$26.2 million for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2005; |
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$18.2 million for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2004; and |
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$17.3 million for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2003. |
At December 31, 2005, we had cash on-hand of approximately $1.9 million, working capital of
approximately $2.2 million and an accumulated deficit since organization of approximately $156.4
million.
We presently produce a natural human alpha interferon product under the name
Multiferon®. The product is approved in Sweden for the first-line adjuvant treatment of
high-risk (Stages IIb- III) malignant melanoma following dacarbazine (DTIC) after surgical removal
of tumors. The product is also approved for sale in Bulgaria, Chile, Mexico and Sweden as a
second-line treatment of any and all diseases in which patients show an initial response to
recombinant alpha interferon followed by treatment failure. The product is also approved for sale
in Egypt, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Myanmar and South Africa as a second-line therapy for the treatment
of chronic myelogenous leukemia and hairy cell leukemia. Our natural human alpha interferon is not
approved for sale in the United States or other European Union countries, other than Sweden. We
have not sought the approval of our natural human interferon product from the United States Food
and Drug Administration or its European Union counterparts, except Sweden.
We will not be able to significantly reduce our losses or operate profitably until we obtain
the necessary approvals to manufacture and sell our natural human alpha interferon or other
products on a widely accepted basis. We expect sales of our natural human alpha interferon to be
our primary source of income for the foreseeable future. Investors must understand that our natural
human alpha interferon product may never receive certain approvals sought from regulatory
authorities. In addition, even if approval is received, we may not be able to achieve sufficient
profit from the sale of our natural human alpha interferon. If we do not obtain the required
approvals, or we do not profit from the sale of our natural human alpha interferon or other
products, we will likely cease operations. In that case, investors in Viragen will likely lose
their entire investment.
9
Our business is capital intensive, and we do not currently generate sufficient revenues to
offset our debt service obligations, research and development activities and other operating
expenses. As a result, and due to our recurring losses, accumulated deficit and cash flow
difficulties, our independent registered public accounting firm has expressed substantial doubt
about our ability to continue as a going concern. If we are unable to obtain additional funding,
as and when required, we may have to significantly curtail or completely terminate our operations.
We believe that our cash and cash equivalents are sufficient to meet our operating
requirements through approximately June 30, 2006. As of December 31, 2005, we had approximately
$1.9 million in cash. Subsequent to December 31, 2005, we received net proceeds of approximately
$4.7 million from the sale of our Series J 24% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock and warrants
to purchase shares of our common stock. At our present rate of expenditure and absent significant
revenues from operations, of which there is no assurance, we anticipate that it will be necessary
for us to raise additional funding in order to continue our operating activities beyond
approximately June 30, 2006. In light of our recurring losses, accumulated deficit and cash flow
difficulties, the report of our independent registered public accounting firm on our financial
statements for the year ended June 30, 2005 contains an explanatory paragraph raising substantial
doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. Our financial statements do not include
any adjustments that may be necessary in the event we are unable to continue as a going concern.
Our operating losses and working capital requirements continue to adversely affect cash flow.
Product sales for the six months ended December 31, 2005 and our fiscal years ended June 30, 2005,
2004 and 2003 were approximately $202,000, $279,000, $266,000 and $631,000, respectively, which
were not sufficient to generate positive cash flow from operations. Unless we are able to generate
significant revenues from operations, we will be dependant upon further equity or debt fundings to
meet our debt service obligations, conduct research and development activities and fund other
operating expenses and to otherwise successfully execute our business plan subsequent to June 30,
2006. In the event of our inability to raise sufficient capital, or a lack of expanded revenue from
the sale of our natural human alpha interferon product, we would be required to significantly
curtail or suspend a portion or all of our operations. Further, sufficient funding may not be
available to finance planned future scientific collaborations, planned marketing efforts or planned
capital expenditures. Any failure to raise additional funds in the future may also result in our
inability to successfully promote our brand name, complete existing and/or undertake new research
and development projects, take advantage of business opportunities or respond to competitive
pressures, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results
of operations.
The recent economic and political environment has made raising capital difficult and the financings
that we have consummated are dilutive to stockholders and may adversely affect the market price for
our shares.
As a result of the decline in the capital markets, which began in 2000, and certain world
events, we have experienced a reduction in available investment capital coupled with investors
general reluctance to invest in development companies. Our success in attracting additional
funding has been limited to transactions in which our equity is used as currency. Financing
activities during this period have consisted of sales of our common stock at a discount to the
market price and the issuance of securities convertible into shares of our common stock, sometimes
at a discount to prevailing market prices. In light of the availability of this type of financing,
and the lack of alternative proposals, our board of directors has determined that the continued use
of our equity for these purposes may be necessary if Viragen is to sustain operations. Equity
financings of the type we have been required to pursue are dilutive to our stockholders and may
adversely impact the market price for our shares.
10
Risks Related to this Offering and the Market for our Shares
The issuance of our shares upon conversion of the Series J 24% Cumulative Convertible Preferred
Stock or exercise of the warrants issued in connection with the series J preferred stock and upon
conversion of outstanding convertible notes and debentures and exercise of outstanding options or
warrants to purchase our common stock may cause significant dilution to our stockholders and may
have an adverse impact on the market price of our common stock.
As of the date of this prospectus, there are 45,765,687 shares of our common stock
outstanding. Resales of shares that would be received upon conversion of our Series J 24%
Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock or exercise of the warrants issued in connection with the
series J preferred stock, would increase the number of our publicly traded shares, which could
depress the market price of our common stock. Moreover, as all the shares we might issue upon
conversion of the series J preferred stock or exercise of the warrants issued in connection with
the series J preferred stock will be available for immediate resale as of the date of this
prospectus, the mere prospect of these resales could depress the market price for our common stock.
The perceived risk of dilution may cause our stockholders to sell their shares, which would
contribute to a downward movement in the stock price of our common stock. Moreover, the perceived
risk of dilution and the resulting downward pressure on our stock price could encourage investors
to engage in short sales of our common stock. By increasing the number of shares offered for sale,
material amounts of short selling could further contribute to progressive price declines in our
common stock.
As of the date of this prospectus, there are 34,982,939 shares of our common stock issuable
upon exercise or conversion of the following securities. These securities represent approximately
76.4% of our outstanding shares of common stock as of the date of this prospectus.
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Convertible preferred stock, Series A |
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916 |
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Convertible preferred stock, Series J (convertible at $1.25 per share) |
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4,172,000 |
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Officers, employees, and directors options (exercisable at an average price
of $1.59 per share through March 2014) |
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1,142,283 |
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Consultant warrants (exercisable at an average price of $18.82 per share
through February 2009) |
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100,000 |
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Debt and equity offering warrants (exercisable at an average price of
$1.16 per share through June 2008) |
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16,424,877 |
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Convertible notes or related warrants issued upon redemption of the
notes (convertible/exercisable at $1.05 per share through
August 2008) |
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11,476,194 |
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Convertible debentures (convertible at $1.05 per share through
September 2008) |
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1,666,669 |
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34,982,939 |
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11
We have received deficiency notices from the American Stock Exchange and if we are unable to
satisfy the Amex that we will regain compliance with its continued listing criteria, our shares may
be delisted from Amex, which could accelerate repayment of outstanding indebtedness, adversely
affect investor perception and may result in institutional and other investors refraining from
purchasing our shares.
Viragen received a deficiency letter from the American Stock Exchange (Amex) dated September
20, 2005, advising that, based upon its review of Viragens financial statements included in its
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2005, Viragen is not in compliance
with Amexs continued listing standards. Specifically, Viragen is not in compliance with Section
1003(a)(ii) of the Amex Company Guide, because Viragens stockholders equity is less than
$4,000,000 and it sustained losses from continuing operations and/or net losses in three out of its
four most recent fiscal years, and Section 1003(a)(iii) of the Amex Company Guide, because
Viragens stockholders equity is less than $6,000,000 and it sustained losses from continuing
operations and/or net losses in its five most recent fiscal years. Viragen submitted a plan to
Amex, which outlines Viragens plans to regain compliance with Amexs continued listing
requirements. On October 25, 2005, Amex notified Viragen that it accepted Viragens plan of
compliance and granted Viragen an extension of time until March 20, 2007 to regain compliance with
Amexs continued listing standards.
Subsequently, Viragen received a deficiency letter from the Amex dated March 1, 2006, advising
that, based upon its review of Viragens financial statements included in its Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2005, Viragen does not meet an additional continued
listing standard. Specifically, Viragen is not in compliance with Section 1003(a)(i) of the Amex
Company Guide, because Viragens stockholders equity is less than $2,000,000 and it sustained
losses from continuing operations and/or net losses in two of its three most recent fiscal years.
Viragen will be subject to periodic review by Amex during the extension period granted by
Amex. Failure to make progress consistent with the plan Viragen submitted to Amex or to regain
compliance with the continued listing standards by the end of the extension period could result in
Viragens shares being delisted from Amex. In the event Viragens shares are delisted from Amex,
its shares would be listed on the over-the-counter bulletin board; however, certain institutional
investors have policies against investments in bulletin board companies and other investors may
refrain from purchasing Viragen shares if they are not listing on a national securities exchange.
Viragen is currently evaluating the accounting treatment for the recent sale of its Series J
24% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock and related common stock purchase warrants. Depending
upon the results of this evaluation, all or a portion of, the transaction may be reported as a
liability of Viragen rather than an increase in equity. In addition, if all or a portion of the
transaction is initially recorded as equity, future events could require a reclassification to a
liability at a later date, reducing the amount initially recorded as an increase in equity. In the
event we are required to record the sale of our series J preferred stock and related common stock
purchase warrants as a liability, the transaction will not assist us to overcome the deficiencies
cited by the Amex. Viragen expects to disclose its accounting treatment for the sale of its series
J preferred stock and related common stock purchase warrants in its quarterly report on Form 10-Q
for the period ended March 31, 2006.
In addition, Viragens outstanding convertible debt contains a provision that in the event its
common stock is no longer traded on the Amex, New York Stock Exchange or NASDAQ, the debt holders
have the right to request repayment of their investment with related accrued interest. Given
Viragens current financial position, we would be unable to repay these amounts and would be in
default of these agreements.
12
The conversion and exercise prices of outstanding securities may be reduced, and the number of
shares that we issue on conversion or exercise may be increased, in the event that we issue common
stock or securities convertible into common stock in the future for consideration that is less than
the conversion or exercise prices of the outstanding securities.
The terms of certain of our outstanding convertible debt and warrants provide for a downward
adjustment in the conversion and exercise prices in the event that we subsequently issue shares of
our common stock, or securities convertible into our common stock, for consideration that is less
than the conversion or exercise prices of the previously issued securities. Any reduction of the
conversion or exercise prices of outstanding securities as a result of these adjustment provisions
will require that we issue a greater number of shares upon conversion of convertible debt or
exercise of warrants than we would have issued in the absence of these provisions. Any additional
shares that we issue as a result of the adjustment provisions of these securities will cause
further dilution to our existing shareholders.
We are engaged in the biotechnology industry; as a result, the market price for our common stock
may be subject to extreme volatility.
The market for securities of biotechnology companies, including companies such as ours, has
historically been more volatile than the market for stocks in general. As a result, the price of
our common stock may be subject to wide fluctuations in response to factors, some of which are
beyond our control, including, without limitation:
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quarter-to-quarter variations in our operating results; |
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our announcement of material events; |
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price fluctuations in sympathy to others engaged in our industry; and |
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the effects of media coverage of our business. |
Price volatility may prevent you from selling your shares of common stock when you desire to do so,
and the inability to sell your shares in a rapidly declining market may substantially increase your
risk of loss. Our common stock has traded between a high of $3.50 and a low of $0.42 since January
1, 2004.
We could use preferred stock to fund operations or resist takeovers, and the issuance of preferred
stock may cause additional dilution.
Our Certificate of Incorporation authorizes the issuance of up to 1,000,000 shares of
preferred stock, of which 2,150 shares of series A and 52,150 shares of series J are issued and
outstanding on the date of this prospectus. Our Certificate of Incorporation gives our board of
directors the authority to issue preferred stock without the approval of our stockholders. We may
issue additional shares of preferred stock to raise money to finance our operations. We may
authorize the issuance of the preferred stock in one or more series. In addition, we may set the
terms of preferred stock, including:
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dividend and liquidation preferences; |
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voting rights; |
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conversion privileges; |
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redemption terms; and |
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other privileges and rights of the shares of each authorized series. |
The issuance of large blocks of preferred stock could possibly have a dilutive effect to our
existing stockholders. It can also negatively impact our existing stockholders liquidation
preferences. In addition, while we include preferred stock in our capitalization to improve our
financial flexibility, we could possibly issue our preferred stock to friendly third parties to
preserve control by present management. This could occur if we become subject to a hostile takeover that could ultimately benefit Viragen and
Viragens stockholders.
13
Risks Related to our Business
Competitive conditions in the pharmaceutical industry may force us to terminate operations.
Competition for investment capital and market share in the pharmaceutical industry is very
strong. Our competitors, which include major pharmaceutical companies, have more experience in
research, development and clinical testing of pharmaceutical and biomedical products. We have not
yet developed a pharmaceutical product that can be widely marketed. Our competitors also have
greater financial, marketing and human resources. Some of our competitors, including Hoffmann-La
Roche, Inc. and Schering-Plough Corporation, have received approvals for their synthetic
interferons. They have been marketing their products since 1986 and have received wide acceptance
from the medical community and the patient population for their products. This will make it more
difficult for us to introduce and penetrate the market with our product, if and when we receive the
necessary regulatory approvals. We expect competition to increase in the future.
In addition, technological advances made by our competitors may make synthetic interferon
products more effective, less costly and with less harmful side effects. We may not be able to keep
pace with technological advances by others, either because we do not have sufficient resources or
because we cannot achieve greater improvements in our technology. If we are unable to compete with
our larger, more experienced competitors, we will likely cease operations.
Competition for funding in the pharmaceutical industry is also intense. We have a limited
source of income at this time, and we will require additional funding to conduct the clinical
trials that will be necessary in order to receive regulatory approvals. We must obtain additional
funding from outside sources to conduct these trials. If we are unable to locate funding or obtain
funding on reasonable terms, we may be forced to cease operations. In that case, investors in
Viragen will likely lose their entire investment.
Government regulation may affect Viragens ability to develop and distribute natural interferon.
All pharmaceutical manufacturers are subject to state, federal and foreign rules and
regulations, including those of the United States Food and Drug Administration, Asian markets and
the European Union regulatory authorities. These rules and regulations are constantly changing.
These changes could extend the period of clinical trials, involve costly compliance measures and
may restrict our ability to produce and distribute our natural interferon product based on the
results of testing. It is possible that we may never receive these regulatory approvals for any
specific illness or range of illnesses that we are attempting to treat with our natural interferon
product. Our inability to receive regulatory approvals will limit our revenues and, ultimately,
could require us to cease operations.
If patients have problems receiving third party reimbursements for natural interferon, it will be
more difficult to market our product. In addition, our marketing costs would increase.
Our ability to successfully market our products will depend in part on the availability of
reimbursements from government health administration authorities, private health coverage insurers
and other organizations. The pricing of products similar to ours, or the amount of reimbursement
available to patients, may affect our ability to market our product at a profit. Third party
reimbursement limitations could restrict the patient population that will use our product. If third
party payors decline or otherwise limit reimbursement for our product, sales would likely decline
and we could be required to increase our marketing efforts, which, in turn, will involve greater
expense to us.
14
Our proprietary technology and any future patents that we receive may not provide sufficient
protection to us.
We intend to rely, in part, on technology developed by our scientists for the efficient and
safe production of natural interferon, our avian transgenics technologies and our oncology
technologies. If we are not successful in obtaining patents or demonstrating that our production
processes are proprietary under trade secret law, we will have limited protection against those who
might copy our technology. We are aware of no claims that our patents or other proprietary
technology infringes on the rights of any third party; however any such claims that may arise could
adversely affect us, even if these claims are untrue. We cannot assure you that any of our patent
applications will be approved. Even if granted, we cannot assure you that these patents or any
future patent applications or our other proprietary rights will provide sufficient protection to
us.
If we are unable to produce targeted drugs in egg whites of transgenic chickens in commercially
viable quantities, we will be unable to recoup our research and development expenses and we will be
unable to successfully market these drugs.
Our avian transgenics project, still in the development stage, is designed to enable Viragen
to produce therapeutic proteins and antibodies inside the egg whites of transgenic developed
chickens. Even if we are successful in producing the targeted commercial proteins in egg whites,
we are unable to predict whether this technology will yield commercially viable quantities. Our
inability to produce commercially viable quantities of these protein-based drugs will likely
require us to discontinue our avian transgenics activities.
Technology transfers to third parties may not result in revenue to us and exclusive technology
transfers will preclude us from seeking alternative revenue streams.
One of our proposed marketing strategies is to license our manufacturing technology to third
parties. They, in turn, will use our technology to produce and market our natural interferon
outside the United States of America. We cannot guarantee that these third parties will be able to
successfully market the product or that we will receive revenue from their efforts. To the extent
that we transfer technology to third parties on an exclusive basis, we will be precluded from
granting other parties the opportunity to conduct successful marketing activities.
We may be exposed to product liability claims, and our product liability insurance may not be
sufficient to cover all claims or continue to be available to us.
Persons who claim to be injured from use of our natural interferon, or other products or
processes, may file claims for personal injuries or other damages against us. Directives in the
European Union provide for strict liability and permit compensation claims to be made within a ten
year period from when the product is placed on the market, and three years from the event giving
rise to the claim, thereby creating a 13 year period within which compensation claims could be
asserted. In order to protect ourselves against these claims, we maintain product liability
insurance in the amount of $10,000,000. We cannot be sure that our insurance coverage will be
adequate to insulate us from liabilities that may result from the use of our products. Also, in the
future this type of insurance may not be available, or we may not be able to afford this form of
insurance.
15
Our reliance on foreign third party manufacturers may disrupt operations.
Foreign manufacturing could expose us to risks involved with fluctuations in exchange rates of
foreign currencies. In addition, reliance on international vendors exposes us to all the risks of
dealing with a foreign manufacturing source. These risks include:
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unexpected changes in regulatory requirements; |
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tariffs and other trade barriers, including import and export restrictions; |
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political or economic instability; |
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compliance with foreign laws; |
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transportation delays and interruptions; |
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difficulties in protecting intellectual property rights in foreign countries; and |
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currency exchange risks. |
Foreign manufacturing arrangements may also limit our control, and could disrupt our operations,
which, in turn, could negatively impact upon your investment in us.
We do not expect to pay dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future.
We have never paid cash dividends on our common stock. We do not expect to pay cash dividends
on our common stock any time in the foreseeable future. The future payment of dividends directly
depends upon our future earnings, capital requirements, financial requirements and other factors
that our board of directors will consider. For the foreseeable future, we will use earnings from
operations, if any, to finance our growth, and we will not pay dividends to our common
stockholders. The payment of dividends may also be restricted by the provisions of Delaware law.
You should not rely on an investment in our common stock if you require dividend income. The only
return on your investment in our common stock, if any, would most likely come from any appreciation
of our common stock.
We depend on the continued services of our executive officers and on our ability to attract and
maintain other qualified employees.
While we do not rely upon one specific individual to provide the management and scientific
leadership, the team of executive management in the U.S. and the scientific teams located in
Scotland and Sweden, taken together, are crucial to the future development of the company. Though
competition for qualified scientific and managerial personnel is at times intense in the markets in
which we operate, we have in the past had a high level of success in attracting and retaining such
personnel, and, while we can give you no assurance, we anticipate continued success in such regard
in the future.
16
USE OF PROCEEDS
We will not receive any of the proceeds from the sale of shares by the selling security
holders. To the extent that warrants, the shares issuable upon exercise of which are covered by
this prospectus, are exercised on other than a cashless basis, we could receive gross proceeds of
up to approximately $6.05 million. We intend to use any net proceeds we receive upon the exercise
of warrants for general corporate purposes, including:
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funding of the commercialization of our Multiferon® product: |
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funding collaborative research projects for the development of new technologies; |
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financing capital expenditures; |
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payment of financing obligations; and |
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working capital. |
Pending use of the net proceeds for any of these purposes, we may invest the net proceeds in
short-term, investment grade, interest-bearing securities.
SELLING SECURITY HOLDERS
Series J 24% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock
On March 21, 2006, we completed a private placement of Series J 24% Cumulative Convertible
Preferred Stock and warrants to purchase shares of our common stock. We received gross proceeds of
approximately $5.2 million in connection with this transaction.
Each share of series J preferred stock, par value $1.00 per share, has a stated value of $100.
The holders of outstanding series J preferred stock are entitled to receive preferential dividends
in cash out of any funds of Viragen before any dividend or other distribution will be paid or
declared and set apart for payment on any shares of any Viragen common stock, or other class of
stock presently authorized or to be authorized, except for Viragens series A preferred stock, at
the rate of 24% per annum on the stated value, payable in cash on the earlier of (a) annually in
arrears commencing February 28, 2007 and annually thereafter in cash or (b) upon redemption, as
hereinafter provided, following the closing of any subsequent financing (whether done in one or
more financings of debt or equity) by Viragen with gross proceeds equal to or greater than
$5,000,000. To the extent not prohibited by law, dividends must be paid to the holders not later
than five business days after the end of each period for which dividends are payable.
The series J preferred stock is convertible into Viragen common stock, at the option of the
investors, together with accrued and unpaid dividends if elected by the investors, at a conversion
price or rate of $1.25 per share, subject to adjustment. Viragen and the investors each have the
option at such time as we complete a subsequent financing for gross proceeds of $5,000,000 or more
to have Viragen redeem all or a portion of their series J preferred stock and any accrued and
unpaid dividends, rounded up to the year end of the year of redemption. In addition, under certain
circumstances, we have the right to redeem the series J preferred stock if our common shares trade
at $2.50 or higher for a period of 10 consecutive trading days.
For each share of series J preferred stock purchased, investors received warrants to purchase
80 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $1.25 per share, subject to adjustment, for a
term of five years from the date of issuance. The warrants include a cashless exercise provision.
No redemption rights for the warrants are provided to either Viragen or the investors.
17
We are obligated to file a registration statement to permit the resale of the common shares
underlying the series J preferred stock and warrants on or before April 19, 2006, and to cause the
registration statement to be declared effective on or before July 18, 2006. We are obligated to
pay each investor liquidated damages in cash equal to 1.5% of the stated value of the series J
preferred stock remaining unconverted or 1.5% of the purchase price of shares issued upon
conversion of the series J preferred stock, plus accrued and unpaid dividends, for each 30 days or
part thereof, for any failure to timely file or obtain an effective registration statement. If,
following the effective date of the registration statement, the registration statement ceases to
remain effective for 15 business days or for a period of time which shall not exceed an aggregate
of 20 days per year, we are obligated to pay each investor liquidated damages computed in a similar
manner. Liquidated damages will not accrue nor be payable for times during which the shares covered
by this prospectus are transferable by the holder pursuant to
Rule 144(k) under the Securities Act
of 1933, as amended. If we were unable to obtain or maintain registration of the common shares underlying the series J preferred stock and related warrants, maximum potential liquidated damages would be approximately $1.7 million.
The net proceeds from the offering of approximately $4.7 million will be used for working
capital purposes.
Dawson James Securities, Inc. served as placement agent for the transaction, and received a
placement agent cash fee of 8% of monies raised and a non-accountable expense fee of an additional
2% of monies raised. The placement agent also received warrants to purchase common stock in an
amount equal to 8% of the shares issuable upon conversion of the series J preferred stock and
exercise of the related warrants (an aggregate of 667,520 warrants). The placement agent warrants
are exercisable at $1.25 per warrant share for a 60-month period.
Resale of the 4,172,000 shares of our common stock issuable upon conversion of the series J
preferred stock and 4,172,000 shares of our common stock issuable upon exercise of the related
warrants are covered by this prospectus.
Ownership Table
The following table sets forth:
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the name of each selling security holder; |
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the amount of common stock owned beneficially by each selling security holder; |
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the number of shares that may be offered by each selling security holder pursuant to
this prospectus; |
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the number of shares to be owned by each selling security holder following sale of
the shares covered by this prospectus; and |
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the percentage of our common stock to be owned by each selling security holder
following sale of the shares covered by this prospectus (based on 45,765,687 shares of
common stock of Viragen outstanding as of the date of this prospectus), as adjusted to
give effect to the issuance of shares upon the exercise of the named selling security
holders warrants, but no other persons warrants. |
Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and generally
includes voting or investment power with respect to outstanding voting securities, as well as any
voting securities which the person has the right to acquire within 60 days, through the conversion
or exercise of any security or other right. The information as to the number of shares of our
common stock owned by each selling security holder is based upon our books and records and the
information provided by our transfer agent.
18
We may amend or supplement this prospectus, from time to time, to update the disclosure set
forth in the table. Because the selling security holders identified in the table may sell some or
all of the shares owned by them which are included in this prospectus, and because there are
currently no agreements, arrangements or understandings with respect to the sale of any of the
shares, no estimate can be given as to the number of shares available for resale hereby that will
be held by the selling security holders upon termination of this offering. We have, therefore,
assumed for the purposes of the following table, that the selling security holders will sell all of
the shares owned beneficially by them, which are covered by this prospectus, but will not sell any
other shares of our common stock that they presently own.
The Number of Shares Owned and Number of Shares to be Offered columns include each selling
security holders allocable portion of Viragens contractual obligation to register 175% of the
number of shares issuable upon conversion of the series J preferred stock and exercise of the
warrants issued in connection with the series J preferred stock.
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Number of |
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Number of Shares |
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Number of |
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Percent |
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Shares |
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to be |
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Shares Owned |
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After |
Name of Selling Security Holder |
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Owned |
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Offered |
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After Offering |
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Offering |
George M. Abraham (1) |
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140,000 |
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140,000 |
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John Baleno (1) |
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140,000 |
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140,000 |
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Alan L. Bauer (1) |
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210,000 |
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210,000 |
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Bedrock Capital, L.P. (1) (3) |
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840,000 |
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840,000 |
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Erwin L. Betts (1) |
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140,000 |
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140,000 |
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Lester B. Boelter (1) |
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70,000 |
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70,000 |
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Stephen Boger (1) |
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70,000 |
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70,000 |
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Eric and Betty Borowsky (1) |
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70,000 |
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70,000 |
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Alan Bradeen (1) |
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70,000 |
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70,000 |
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Glenn T. Brown (1) |
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140,000 |
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140,000 |
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Cansco LLC (1) (4) |
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420,000 |
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420,000 |
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John Peter Christensen (1) |
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280,000 |
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280,000 |
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Michael Croci (1) |
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280,000 |
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280,000 |
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Mr. & Mrs. M. Cybalski (1) |
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|
700,000 |
|
|
|
700,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lauren A. Daman, MD PC Pension Plan (1) (5) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dawson James Securities, Inc. (2) (6) |
|
|
384,636 |
|
|
|
384,636 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Michael Dazzo (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
John J. Durian (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Janet L. Eggers (1) |
|
|
56,000 |
|
|
|
56,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wesley Eng (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
James W. Fenner TTEE (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
William Fox (2) |
|
|
15,750 |
|
|
|
15,750 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Phil Giessler (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Robert W. Halprin (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Thom Hands (2) |
|
|
15,750 |
|
|
|
15,750 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mark Hoffbauer (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
IA545 Madison Associates (1) (7) |
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Robert Jorgenson |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
K. A. Steel Chemicals Inc. (1) (8) |
|
|
56,000 |
|
|
|
56,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Douglas Kaiser (2) |
|
|
117,250 |
|
|
|
117,250 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
John Keyser (2) |
|
|
26,208 |
|
|
|
26,208 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Robert D. Keyser Jr. (2) |
|
|
117,250 |
|
|
|
117,250 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Kent Kingman (1) |
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Noel Krantz (1) |
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Michael Krohn (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gregory P. Kusnick (1) |
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Larry O. and Dorothy Lee (1) |
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Russell Libby (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
19
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
Number of Shares |
|
Number of |
|
Percent |
|
|
Shares |
|
to be |
|
Shares Owned |
|
After |
Name of Selling Security Holder |
|
Owned |
|
Offered |
|
After Offering |
|
Offering |
Allan R. Lyons (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
David Maltese (2) |
|
|
52,640 |
|
|
|
52,640 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shane Maxell (1) |
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Brian P. McNamara (1) |
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
James E. Meikrantz (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Salvador and Joan Milazzo (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Edward J. Morrison (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nu Vision Holdings LLC (1) (9) |
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Terrence J. Paul (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Robert A. Payne (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tom Pernice Jr. (1) |
|
|
560,000 |
|
|
|
560,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Craig Pierson (2) |
|
|
3,360 |
|
|
|
3,360 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Albert Poliak (2) |
|
|
117,250 |
|
|
|
117,250 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
James E. Raz (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Leo G. Roos (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Steven Mitchell Sack (1) |
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Frank Salvatore (2) |
|
|
117,250 |
|
|
|
117,250 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sandor Capital Master Fund, L.P. (1) (10) |
|
|
1,120,000 |
|
|
|
1,120,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Karl Scheil (1) |
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Harold Schroeder (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Philip Schiller (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
James & Margaret Sisk (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Jay R. Solan (1) |
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Kenneth A. Steel Jr. (1) |
|
|
1,400,000 |
|
|
|
1,400,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Robert F. and Jennifer Steel (1) |
|
|
700,000 |
|
|
|
700,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stine Family Trust (11) |
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sun West Holdings, Inc. Defined Benefit
Pension Plan c/o Eric Borowsky (1) (12) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ronald Suster (1) |
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sidney N. & Candace Sweet (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
T2 Ltd. (1) (13) |
|
|
840,000 |
|
|
|
840,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
David & Christine Thoman (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
R. van den Toorn (1) |
|
|
210,000 |
|
|
|
210,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liza Torkan (1) |
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Alex Tringas (1) |
|
|
420,000 |
|
|
|
420,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Vincent Vaiano (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Richard I. Weaver (1) |
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Trust U/W Renee Weiss (1) (14) |
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
David Weinstein (2) |
|
|
200,816 |
|
|
|
200,816 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Roland Wheeler (1) |
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Windcrest Fund (1) (15) |
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gary B. Zobel (1) |
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
|
less than 1% |
|
(1) |
|
One-half of the number of shares in the columns consists of shares issuable upon
conversion of the Series J 24% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock and the balance consists of
shares issuable upon exercise of common stock purchase warrants issued in connection with the
Series J 24% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock |
20
|
|
|
(2) |
|
The number of shares in the columns consists of common stock issuable upon exercise of
placement agent warrants. |
|
(3) |
|
The person making investment and voting decisions for the named selling security holder is Jim
Smith, whose address is 25 Highland Park Village, Suite 100-382, Dallas, TX 75205. |
|
(4) |
|
The person making investment and voting decisions for the named selling security holder is Dan
Asher, whose address is 41 Q 002 Industrial State 5126, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. |
|
(5) |
|
The person making investment and voting decisions for the named selling security holder is
Lauren A. Daman MD, whose address is 84 Brainard Road, West Hartford, CT 06117. |
|
(6) |
|
The person making investment and voting decisions for the named selling security holder is
Robert D. Keyser Jr., whose address is 925 S. Federal Highway, 6th Floor, Boca Raton, FL 33432. |
|
(7) |
|
The person making investment and voting decisions for the named selling security holder is
Milton Koffman, whose address is 300 Plaza Drive, Vestal, NY 13850. |
|
(8) |
|
The person making investment and voting decisions for the named selling security holder is
Bernard Ludwig, whose address is 15185 Main Street, P.O. Box 729, Lemont, IL 60439. |
|
(9) |
|
The person making investment and voting decisions for the named selling security holder is
Steven Kevorkian, whose address is 1010 Northern Blvd., Suite 208, Great Neck, NY 11021. |
|
(10) |
|
The person making investment and voting decisions for the named selling security holder is
John S. Lemak, whose address is 2828 Routh Street, Suite 500, Dallas, TX 75201. |
|
(11) |
|
The person making investment and voting decisions for the named selling security holder is
Douglas L. Stine, whose address is 12400 W. 155th Street, Overland Park, KS. |
|
(12) |
|
The person making investment and voting decisions for the named selling security holder is
Eric Borowsky, whose address is 22214 N. La Senda Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85255. |
|
(13) |
|
The person making investment and voting decisions for the named selling security holder is Jim
Smith, whose address is 25 Highland Park Village, Suite 100-382, Dallas, TX 75205. |
|
(14) |
|
The person making investment and voting decisions for the named selling security holder is
Peter H. Weiss, whose address is P.O. Box 1682, Mercer Island, WA, 98040. |
|
(15) |
|
The person making investment and voting decisions for the named selling security holder is
Eric Thor Jager, whose address is 4800 Main Street, Suite 600, Kansas City, MO 64112. |
No selling security holder has held any positions or offices or had material relationships
with us or any of our affiliates within the past three years other than as a result of the
ownership of our common stock.
21
PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION
Each selling security holder and any of their pledgees, assignees and successors-in-interest
may, from time to time, sell any or all of their shares covered by this prospectus on the Amex or
any other stock exchange, market or trading facility on which the shares are traded or in private
transactions. These sales may be at fixed or negotiated prices. A selling security holder may use
any one or more of the following methods when selling shares:
|
|
|
ordinary brokerage transactions and transactions in which the broker-dealer solicits
purchasers; |
|
|
|
|
block trades in which the broker-dealer will attempt to sell the shares as agent but
may position and resell a portion of the block as principal to facilitate the
transaction; |
|
|
|
|
purchases by a broker-dealer as principal and resale by the broker-dealer for its account; |
|
|
|
|
an exchange distribution in accordance with the rules of the applicable exchange; |
|
|
|
|
privately negotiated transactions; |
|
|
|
|
settlement of short sales entered into after the effective date of the registration
statement of which this prospectus is a part; |
|
|
|
|
broker-dealers may agree with the selling security holders to sell a specified
number of such shares at a stipulated price per share; |
|
|
|
|
a combination of any such methods of sale; |
|
|
|
|
through the writing or settlement of options or other hedging transactions, whether
through an options exchange or otherwise; or |
|
|
|
|
any other method permitted pursuant to applicable law. |
The selling security holders may also sell shares under Rule 144 under the Securities Act of
1933, as amended, if available, rather than under this prospectus.
Broker-dealers engaged by the selling security holders may arrange for other broker-dealers to
participate in sales. Broker-dealers may receive commissions or discounts from the selling security
holders (or, if any broker-dealer acts as agent for the purchaser of shares, from the purchaser) in
amounts to be negotiated, but except as set forth in a supplement to this prospectus, in the case
of an agency transaction not in excess of a customary brokerage commission in compliance with NASDR
Rule 2440; and in the case of a principal transaction a markup or markdown in compliance with NASDR
IM-2440.
In connection with the sale of the shares covered by this prospectus or interests therein, the
selling security holders may enter into hedging transactions with broker-dealers or other financial
institutions, which may in turn engage in short sales of Viragen common stock in the course of
hedging the positions they assume. The selling security holders may also sell shares short and
deliver these securities to close out their short positions, or loan or pledge the shares to
broker-dealers that in turn may sell these securities. The selling security holders may also enter
into option or other transactions with broker-dealers or other financial institutions or the
creation of one or more derivative securities which require the delivery to such broker-dealer or
other financial institution of shares offered by this prospectus, which shares such broker-dealer
or other financial institution may resell pursuant to this prospectus (as supplemented or amended
to reflect such transaction).
22
The selling security holders and any broker-dealers or agents that are involved in selling the
shares may be deemed to be underwriters within the meaning of the Securities Act in connection
with such sales. In such event, any commissions received by such broker-dealers or agents and any
profit on the resale of the shares purchased by them may be deemed to be underwriting commissions
or discounts under the Securities Act. Each selling security holder has informed Viragen that it
does not have any written or oral agreement or understanding, directly or indirectly, with any
person to distribute the shares. In no event shall any broker-dealer receive fees, commissions and
markups which, in the aggregate, would exceed eight percent (8%).
Viragen is required to pay the fees and expenses incident to the registration of the shares
covered by this prospectus. Viragen has agreed to indemnify the selling security holders against
certain losses, claims, damages and liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act.
To the extent that selling security holders are deemed to be underwriters within the meaning
of the Securities Act, they may be subject to the prospectus delivery requirements of the
Securities Act. In addition, any securities covered by this prospectus which qualify for sale
pursuant to Rule 144 under the Securities Act may be sold under Rule 144 rather than under this
prospectus. Each selling security holder has advised us that they have not entered into any
written or oral agreements, understandings or arrangements with any underwriter or broker-dealer
regarding the sale of the resale shares. There is no underwriter or coordinating broker acting in
connection with the proposed sale of the resale shares by the selling security holders.
We have agreed to keep this prospectus effective until the earlier of (i) March 21, 2008 or
(ii) all of the shares covered by this prospectus have been resold pursuant to the prospectus or
Rule 144 under the Securities Act. The resale shares will be sold only through registered or
licensed brokers or dealers if required under applicable state securities laws. In addition, in
certain states, the resale shares may not be sold unless they have been registered or qualified for
sale in the applicable state or an exemption from the registration or qualification requirement is
available and is complied with.
Under applicable rules and regulations under the Exchange Act, any person engaged in the
distribution of the resale shares may not simultaneously engage in market making activities with
respect to the shares for the applicable restricted period, as defined in Regulation M, prior to
the commencement of the distribution. In addition, the selling security holders will be subject to
applicable provisions of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder, including
Regulation M, which may limit the timing of purchases and sales of shares covered by this
prospectus by the selling security holders or any other person. We will make copies of this
prospectus available to the selling security holders and have informed them of the need to deliver
a copy of this prospectus to each purchaser at or prior to the time of the sale.
23
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES
Viragen is currently authorized to issue up to 250,000,000 shares of common stock, par value
$.01 per share and 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $1.00 per share. As of the date
of this prospectus, there are 45,765,687 shares of common stock, 2,150 shares of series A preferred
stock and 52,150 shares of series J preferred stock outstanding.
Common Stock
Subject to the dividend rights of preferred stockholders, common stockholders share dividends
on a proportionate basis, as may be declared by the board of directors. Upon liquidation,
dissolution or winding up of Viragen, after payment to creditors and holders of our outstanding
preferred stock, Viragens remaining assets, if any, will be divided proportionately on a per share
basis among the holders of our common stock.
Each share of our common stock has one vote. Holders of our common stock do not have
cumulative voting rights. This means that the holders of a plurality of the shares voting for the
election of directors can elect all of the directors. In that event, the holders of the remaining
shares will not be able to elect any directors. Viragens By-Laws provide that a majority of the
outstanding shares of our common stock constitute a quorum to transact business at a stockholders
meeting. Our common stock has no preemptive, subscription or conversion rights, and our common
stock is not redeemable.
Preferred Stock
Viragen is authorized to issue a total of 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $1.00
per share. Viragens board of directors may issue preferred stock by resolutions, without any
action of the stockholders. These resolutions may authorize issuance of preferred stock in one or
more series. In addition, the board of directors may fix and determine all privileges and rights
of the authorized preferred stock series including:
|
|
|
dividend and liquidation preferences, |
|
|
|
|
voting rights, |
|
|
|
|
conversion privileges, and |
|
|
|
|
redemption terms. |
Viragen includes preferred stock in its capitalization to improve its financial flexibility.
However, Viragen could use preferred stock to preserve control by present management, in the event
of a potential hostile takeover of Viragen. In addition, the issuance of large blocks of preferred
stock could have a dilutive effect to existing holders of Viragens common stock.
Series A Preferred Stock
Viragen established the 10% series A cumulative preferred stock in November 1986. Each share
of series A preferred stock is immediately convertible, at the option of the holder, into .426
shares of our common stock. Dividends on the series A preferred stock are cumulative and have
priority over dividends, if any, paid on our common stock. These dividends are payable in either
cash or common stock, at Viragens option.
24
The series A preferred stock has voting rights only if dividends are in arrears for five
annual dividends. In such event, holder of series A preferred stock have the right to elect two
directors. Voting rights terminate upon payment of the cumulative dividends. Viragen may redeem
the series A preferred stock at any time after expiration of ten consecutive business days during
which the bid or last sale price for our common stock is $60.00 per share or higher. There is no
mandatory redemption or sinking fund obligation for the series A preferred stock.
Owners of the series A preferred stock are entitled to receive $10.00 per share, plus accrued
and unpaid dividends, upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up of Viragen. This obligation must
be satisfied before any distribution or payment is made to holders of the common stock or other
stock of Viragen junior to the series A preferred stock.
Series J Preferred Stock
Viragen established the Series J 24% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock in March 2006.
Each share of series J preferred stock is immediately convertible, at the option of the holder,
into 80 shares of Viragens common stock. Each share of series J preferred stock has a stated
value equal to $100 and $1.00 par value. The owners of outstanding shares of series J preferred
stock shall be entitled to receive preferential dividends in cash out of any funds of Viragen
before any dividend or other distribution will be paid or declared and set apart for payment on any
shares of any common stock, or other class of stock presently authorized or to be authorized,
except for Viragens series A preferred stock, at the rate of 24% per annum on the stated value,
payable in cash on the earlier of (i) annually in arrears commencing February 28, 2007 and annually
thereafter in cash or (ii) upon redemption, as discussed below, following the closing of any
subsequent financing (whether done in one or more financings of debt or equity) by Viragen with
gross proceeds equal to or greater than $5 million.
At such time as Viragen completes a subsequent financing, of either debt or equity, resulting
in the receipt of gross proceeds to Viragen of $5 million or more, owners of the series J preferred
stock may require Viragen to redeem, at the owners sole option, all or a portion of their series J
preferred stock outstanding at such time at the stated value, including any accrued but unpaid
dividends, rounded up to the year-end of the year of redemption. Viragen shall provide notice to
the owners of the series J preferred stock within 5 days of the completion of such subsequent
financing, and the owners of the series J preferred stock shall have 10 days following the issuance
of such notice in order to elect redemption, and payment therefore shall be made within 30 days of
receipt of such written election.
Concomitantly, at such time as Viragen completes a subsequent financing, of either debt or
equity, resulting in the receipt of gross proceeds to Viragen of $5 million or more, Viragen may
redeem, at its sole option, the series J preferred stock outstanding at such time, in their
entirety, at the stated value, including any accrued but unpaid dividend, rounded up to the
year-end of the year of redemption. Viragen shall provide written notice to the owners of the
series J preferred stock within 5 days of the completion of such subsequent financing offering, and
the owners of the series J preferred stock shall have 10 days following the issuance of such notice
to elect to convert their shares of series J preferred stock into common stock of Viragen or accept
redemption, with payment to be made within 40 days of such written notice by Viragen.
Viragen shall also have the right, at its sole option, (i) to require the owners of the series
J preferred stock to convert their series J preferred stock outstanding at such time, in their
entirety, into common stock of Viragen at the $1.25 per share conversion price, or (ii) to redeem
the series J preferred stock outstanding at such time, in their entirety, at the stated value,
including any accrued but unpaid dividend, rounded up to the year-end of the year of redemption,
but in each such option, only in the event the closing price of the common stock of Viragen trades
at $2.50 per share or higher for at least 10 consecutive trading days. In the case of (ii) above,
Viragen shall provide written notice to the owners of the series J preferred stock of
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redemption within 10 days of such trading event, and the owners of the series J preferred
stock shall have 10 days following issuance of such notice to elect to convert their shares of
series J preferred stock into common stock of Viragen or accept redemption, with payment by Viragen
to be made within 40 days of such written notice by Viragen.
The series J preferred stock has no voting rights, except if Viragen should amend its
certificate of incorporation and such amendment would: (i) change the relative seniority rights of
the owners of the series J preferred stock of series J preferred stock as to the payment of
dividends in relation to the holders of any other capital stock of Viragen, or create any other
class or series of capital stock entitled to seniority as to the payment of dividends in relation
to the owners of the series J preferred stock; (ii) reduce the amount payable to the owners of the
series J preferred stock upon the voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up
of Viragen, or change the relative seniority of the liquidation preferences of the owners of the
series J preferred stock to the rights upon liquidation of the holders of other capital stock of
Viragen, or change the dividend rights of the owners of the series J preferred stock; (iii) cancel
or modify the conversion rights of the owners of the series J preferred stock; or (iv) cancel or
modify the rights of the owners of the series J preferred stock.
Owners of the series J preferred stock are entitled to receive $100.00 per share, plus accrued
and unpaid dividends, upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up of Viragen. This obligation must
be satisfied before any distribution or payment is made to holders of the common stock or other
stock of Viragen junior to the series J preferred stock.
Transfer Agent
The transfer agent for the shares of our common stock is Mellon Investor Services LLC, Newport
Office Center VII, 480 Washington Boulevard, Jersey City, New Jersey 07310.
LEGAL MATTERS
Schneider Weinberger & Beilly LLP will review the validity of the issuance of the shares of
common stock, the resale of which is covered by this prospectus. Schneider Weinberger & Beilly LLP
is located at 2200 Corporate Blvd., N.W., Suite 210, Boca Raton, Florida 33431.
EXPERTS
The consolidated financial statements of Viragen, Inc. appearing in Viragen, Inc.s Annual
Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended June 30, 2005 and Viragen, Inc. managements assessment of
the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of June 30, 2005 included
therein, have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, as
set forth in their reports thereon (which contains an explanatory paragraph describing conditions
that raise substantial doubt about the Companys ability to continue as a going concern as
described in Note A to the consolidated financial statements) and incorporated herein by reference.
Such consolidated financial statements and managements assessment are incorporated herein by
reference in reliance upon such reports given on the authority of such firm as experts in
accounting and auditing.
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Viragen, Inc.
Prospectus
May 23, 2006