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What changed in Trump Media & Technology Group Corp.'s 10-K2022 vs 2023

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Paragraph-level year-over-year comparison of Trump Media & Technology Group Corp.'s 2022 and 2023 10-K annual filings, covering the Business, Risk Factors, Legal Proceedings, Cybersecurity, MD&A and Market Risk sections. Every new, removed and edited paragraph is highlighted side-by-side so you can see exactly what management changed in the 2023 report.

+878 added395 removedSource: 10-K (2024-04-01) vs 10-K (2023-04-26)

Top changes in Trump Media & Technology Group Corp.'s 2023 10-K

878 paragraphs added · 395 removed · 36 edited across 5 sections

Item 1. Business

Business — how the company describes what it does

8 edited+135 added296 removed6 unchanged
Biggest changeWe are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in Section 2(a) of the Securities Act, as modified by the JOBS Act.
Biggest changeMany of these laws and regulations are subject to change and uncertain interpretation, and could result in claims, changes to TMTG’s business practices, increased cost of operations, or declines in user growth or engagement, or otherwise harm TMTG’s business .” 17 Table of Contents Emerging Growth Company We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in Section 2(a) of the Securities Act, as modified by the JOBS Act.
If some investors find our securities less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our securities and the prices of our securities may be more volatile.
If some investors find our securities less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our securities and the prices of our securities may be more volatile.
We will remain an emerging growth company until the earlier of (1) (a) December 31, 2026, (b) the last day of the fiscal year in which we have total annual gross revenue of at least $1.235 billion, or (c) the last day of the fiscal year in which we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer, which means the market value of our Class A common stock that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the prior June 30 th , and (2) the date on which we have issued more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt securities during the prior three-year period.
We will remain an emerging growth company until the earlier of (1) (a) December 31, 2026, (b) the last day of the fiscal year in which we have total annual gross revenue of at least $1.235 billion, or (c) the last day of the fiscal year in which we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer, which means the market value of our common stock that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the prior June 30th, and (2) the date on which we have issued more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt securities during the prior three-year period.
We will remain a smaller reporting company until the last day of the fiscal year in which (1) the market value of our common stock held by non-affiliates equals or exceeds $250 million as of the end of the prior June 30 th , or (2) our annual revenues equaled or exceeded $100 million during such completed fiscal year and the market value of our common stock held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the prior June 30 th .
We will remain a smaller reporting company until the last day of the fiscal year in which (1) the market value of our common stock held by non-affiliates equals or exceeds $250 million as of the end of the prior June 30th, or (2) our annual revenues equaled or exceeded $100 million during such completed fiscal year and the market value of our common stock held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the prior June 30th.
We have no current intention of filing a Form 15 to suspend our reporting or other obligations under the Exchange Act prior or subsequent to the consummation of our initial business combination. We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in Section 2(a) of the Securities Act, as modified by the JOBS Act.
As a result, we are subject to the rules and regulations promulgated under the Exchange Act. We have no current intention of filing a Form 15 to suspend our reporting or other obligations under the Exchange Act. We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in Section 2(a) of the Securities Act, as modified by the JOBS Act.
We do not have an employment agreement with any member of our management team. Periodic Reporting and Financial Information We have registered our units, Class A common stock and warrants under the Exchange Act and have reporting obligations, including the requirement that we file annual, quarterly and current reports with the SEC.
Periodic Reporting and Financial Information We have registered our common stock and warrants under the Exchange Act and have reporting obligations, including the requirement that we file annual, quarterly and current reports with the SEC.
In accordance with the requirements of the Exchange Act, our annual reports will contain financial statements audited and reported on by our independent registered public accountants.
In accordance with the requirements of the Exchange Act, our annual reports will contain financial statements audited and reported on by our independent registered public accountants. We are required to evaluate our internal control procedures for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 as required by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
We are required to evaluate our internal control procedures for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 as required by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Only in the event we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer or an accelerated filer, and no longer qualify as an emerging growth company, will we be required to have our internal control procedures audited.
Only in the event we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer or an accelerated filer, and no longer qualify as an emerging growth company, will we be required to have our internal control procedures audited. We have filed a Registration Statement on Form 8-A with the SEC to register our securities under Section 12 of the Exchange Act.
Removed
Item 1. Business. Overview We are a blank check company incorporated as a Delaware corporation, whose business purpose is to effect a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses, which we refer to as our initial business combination.
Added
Item 1. Business Overview TMTG believes free and open communication, particularly political speech, is essential to self-government and democracy. Free expression allows citizens to keep their government in check and inform themselves as voters. Free speech also enables the discovery of truth through the uninhibited marketplace of ideas.
Removed
Initial Public Offering On September 8, 2021, we consummated our initial public offering of 28,750,000 units, including 3,750,000 units issued to the underwriters upon full exercise of their over-allotment option.
Added
Truth often emerges only when opposing ideas can compete against each other on a level playing field. TMTG further believes that the ability to freely express core political speech is among the inalienable rights affirmed by the Declaration of Independence that underlay America’s system of government.
Removed
Each unit consists of one share of Class A common stock and one-half of one redeemable warrant of the Company, with each warrant entitling the holder thereof to purchase one share of Class A common stock for $11.50 per whole share. The units were sold at a price of $10.00 per unit, generating gross proceeds to the Company of $287,500,000.
Added
TMTG therefore aspires to build a media and technology powerhouse to rival the liberal media consortium and promote free expression. TMTG was founded to fight back against the big tech companies—Meta (Facebook, Instagram and Threads), X (formerly Twitter), Netflix, Alphabet (Google), Amazon and others—that may curtail debate in America and censor voices that contradict their “woke” ideology.
Removed
Simultaneously with the closing of the initial public offering, we completed the private sale of an aggregate of 1,133,484 placement units to our sponsor at a purchase price of $10.00 per placement unit, generating gross proceeds of $11,334,840.
Added
As confirmed by the “Twitter Files” exposés, X has long suppressed conservative speech (including at the behest of U.S. government officials) through various means, including “shadow banning”—a surreptitious process in which users may not even know their posts are being hidden from other users. X also outright banned conservative users such as President Donald J.
Removed
A total of $293,250,000, comprised of $283,906,250 of the proceeds from the initial public offering (which amount includes $10,062,500 of the underwriters’ deferred discount) and $9,343,750 of the proceeds of the sale of the placement units was placed in the trust account maintained by Continental, acting as trustee.
Added
Trump, who was banned for one year and ten months—even while X continued to allow the Taliban to freely post their views to the world. In July 2023, a federal district court judge found that Biden White House personnel likely colluded with big tech companies to violate Americans’ First Amendment rights.
Removed
It is the job of our sponsor and management team to complete our initial business combination. Our management team is led by Eric Swider, our Interim Chief Executive Officer and director. We must complete our initial business combination by June 8, 2023 or seek further extensions.
Added
The opinion expressed that “targeted suppression of conservative ideas is a perfect example of viewpoint discrimination of political speech.” Big tech companies’ transformation into the arbiters of public speech and organs of state-sponsored censorship contradicts American values. Their suppression of dissident speech constitutes the most serious threat today to a free and democratic debate.
Removed
If our initial business combination is not consummated during the Combination Period, then our existence will terminate, and we will distribute all amounts in the trust account after deduction from the interest earned thereon amounts to pay tax obligations and up to $100,000 that may be used for our dissolution expenses.
Added
Thus, TMTG aims to safeguard public debate and open dialogue, and to provide a platform for all users to freely express themselves. TMTG’s first product, Truth Social, is a social media platform aiming to disrupt big tech’s control on free speech by opening up the internet and giving the American people their voices back.
Removed
TMTG Business Combination Merger and PIPE Agreements As previously announced, we entered into the Merger Agreement on October 20, 2021, and an amendment to the Merger Agreement on May 11, 2022. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, the parties agreed, subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, to effect the TMTG Business Combination.
Added
It is a public, real-time platform where any user can create content, follow other users and engage in an open and honest global conversation without fear of being censored or “cancelled” due to their political viewpoints. TMTG does not restrict whom a user can follow, which greatly enhances the breadth and depth of available content.
Removed
On December 4, 2021, in support of the TMTG Business Combination, Digital World entered into SPAs with certain PIPE Investors, pursuant to which the investors agreed to purchase an aggregate of 1,000,000 shares of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, for a purchase price of $1,000 per share of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, for an aggregate commitment of $1,000,000,000 in a PIPE to be consummated concurrently with the closing of the TMTG Business Combination.
Added
Additionally, users can be followed by other users without requiring a reciprocal relationship, enhancing the ability of TMTG users to reach a broad audience. Truth Social was generally made available in the first quarter of 2022. TMTG prides itself on operating its platform, to the best of its ability, without relying on big tech companies.
Removed
The shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock have an initial conversion price per share of $33.60 and are initially convertible into an aggregate of 29,761,905 shares of common stock (subject to downward adjustment).
Added
Partnering with pro-free-speech alternative technology firms, Private TMTG fully launched Truth Social for iOS in April 2022. Private TMTG debuted the Truth Social web application in May 2022, and the Truth Social Android App became available in the Samsung Galaxy and Google Play stores in October 2022.
Removed
The price is subject to further downward adjustment to a 40% discount to Digital World’s volume-weighted average closing price for the ten trading days following the day of the TMTG Business Combination, with a floor price of $10.00.
Added
Private TMTG introduced direct messaging to all versions of Truth Social in 2022, released a “Groups” feature for users in May 2023 and announced the general availability of Truth Social internationally in June 2023.
Removed
The closing of the PIPE is conditioned on the closing of the TMTG Business Combination, effectiveness of an initial resale registration statement (the “Initial Resale Registration Statement”) and other closing conditions.
Added
Since its launch, Truth Social has experienced substantial growth, from zero to an aggregate of approximately 9.0 million signups for Truth Social via iOS, Android and the web as of the date of this Report.
Removed
The PIPE Investors are also entitled to certain registration rights under a Registration Rights Agreement, pursuant to which Digital World is required to file an Initial Resale Registration Statement for all of the shares of 5 Table of Contents common stock issuable upon conversion of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock held by the PIPE Investors within 10 days following the filing of the Form S-4.
Added
However, investors should be aware that since its inception, Private TMTG and, following the Closing, TMTG has not relied on any specific key performance metric to make business or operating decisions. Consequently, it has not been maintaining internal controls and procedures for periodically collecting such information, if any.
Removed
The Registration Rights Agreement also provides that such Initial Resale Registration Statement shall be declared effective as of the closing date of the TMTG Business Combination, subject to certain exceptions, including, but not limited to, that in the event that Digital World has cleared all SEC comments on the Initial Resale Registration Statement but the Initial Resale Registration Statement is not permitted to be declared effective as of the date of the closing of the TMTG Business Combination, the effectiveness date of the Initial Resale Registration Statement may be postponed to the earliest date following the closing of the TMTG Business Combination that the SEC will permit.
Added
While many mature industry peers may gather and analyze certain metrics, given the early development stage of the Truth Social platform, TMTG’s management and board believe that such metrics are not critical in the near future for the business and operation of the platform.
Removed
Thereafter, the combined entity will be required to register and to maintain the registration for all shares underlying the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock until the effective date of the TMTG Business Combination.
Added
This stance is due to TMTG’s long-term commitment to implementing a robust business plan, which may involve introducing innovative features and potentially incorporating new technologies, such as advanced video streaming services on its platform.
Removed
In connection with the PIPE and in accordance with Section 4.3(b)(ii) of DWAC’s charter, the sponsor, as majority holder of DWAC’s Class B common stock, waived certain anti-dilution rights of the holders of Class B common stock (the “Class B Holders”) to any increase in the number of shares of Class A common stock issuable upon conversion of the Class B common stock.
Added
These initiatives may enhance the range of services and experiences TMTG can offer on its Truth Social platform. 10 Table of Contents At this juncture in its development, TMTG believes that adhering to traditional key performance indicators, such as signups, average revenue per user, ad impressions and pricing, or active user accounts including monthly and daily active users, could potentially divert its focus from strategic evaluation with respect to the progress and growth of its business.
Removed
In exchange for such waiver, and in the event that the transactions contemplated by the SPAs are consummated in accordance with their terms, the Class B Holders will be entitled to receive (i) an aggregate of 744,048 shares of Class A common stock (the “Anti-dilution Shares”) and (ii) warrants to purchase an aggregate of 744,048 shares of Class A common stock at an exercise price per share of $33.60 for a term of five years.
Added
TMTG believes that focusing on these KPIs might not align with the best interests of TMTG or its shareholders, as it could lead to short-term decision-making at the expense of long-term innovation and value creation.
Removed
The warrants shall otherwise have terms, including but not limited to registration rights, that are substantially identical to the warrants previously issued to the Class B Holders and shall not contain any anti-dilution or reset provisions, except for standard adjustments for any stock splits, stock dividends, recapitalizations and similar events.
Added
Therefore, TMTG believes that this strategic evaluation is critical and aligns with its commitment to a robust business plan that includes introducing innovative features and new technologies.
Removed
For more information about the PIPE and the terms of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, see our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 6, 2021, and the proxy statement/prospectus included in the Form S-4 filed with the SEC on May 16, 2022, as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time.
Added
See “ Risk Factors — Risk Factors Related to TMTG — TMTG does not currently, and may never, collect, monitor or report certain key operating metrics used by companies in similar industries.” To foster a flourishing digital public forum, TMTG seeks to prevent illegal and other prohibited content from contaminating its platform.
Removed
Status of TMTG Business Combination and PIPE The Merger Agreement is subject to a number of conditions which must be satisfied or waived in order to complete the TMTG Business Combination and the Merger Agreement may be terminated at any time, even prior to the Extensions, under certain customary and limited circumstances, including among other reasons, (i) by mutual consent of TMTG and Digital World, (ii) by either Digital World or TMTG if any of the conditions to the closing of the TMTG Business Combination have not been satisfied or waived by the Outside Date, provided that Digital World may extend the Outside Date if it obtains one or more extensions of the time it has to consummate its initial business combination, and provided further that this termination right shall not be available to Digital World or TMTG if the breach by such party (i.e., either Digital World or DWAC Merger Sub Inc. on one hand, or TMTG, on the other hand) of the Merger Agreement was the cause of, or resulted in, the failure of the closing of the TMTG Business Combination to occur on or before the Outside Date, (iii) by either Digital World or TMTG if a governmental authority of competent jurisdiction shall have issued an order or taken any other action permanently restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting, or if any law is in effect making illegal, the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, (iv) by either Digital World or TMTG for the other party’s uncured breach (subject to certain materiality qualifiers and cure periods), (v) by Digital World if there has been an event after the signing of the Merger Agreement that has a material adverse effect (as defined in the Merger Agreement) on TMTG (but excluding a qualifying settlement of certain litigation in which TMTG is involved) that is uncured and continuing, (vi) by TMTG if there has been an event after the signing of the Merger Agreement that has a material adverse effect on Digital World that is uncured and continuing, (vii) by either Digital World or TMTG if approval for the TMTG Business Combination and the other required stockholder proposals are not obtained at the Digital World’s special meeting of stockholders to approve the TMTG Business Combination, (viii) by either Digital World or TMTG if a special meeting of TMTG’s stockholders is held and TMTG’s stockholder shall not have approved the Merger Agreement and the TMTG Business Combination and 6 Table of Contents related matters and (ix) by the mutual and reasonable written consent of Digital World and TMTG in the event that that any required approval of the SEC or any other governmental authority cannot be obtained by the Outside Date, as such date may be extended.
Added
In accordance with Truth Social’s terms of service, illegal and prohibited content includes, but is not limited to, depictions or threats of violence, harassment, incitement of or threats of physical harm.
Removed
In addition, the SPAs may be terminated, under certain circumstances, among others, upon the earlier to occur of (a) the mutual written agreement of the parties thereto, and (b) the termination (for any reason) of the Merger Agreement by any party to the same, or if the TMTG Business Combination is not consummated by the Outside Date.
Added
Using human moderators and an artificial intelligence vendor known as HIVE, Truth Social has developed what TMTG believes is a robust, fair, and viewpoint-neutral moderation system and that its moderation practices are consistent with, and indeed help facilitate, TMTG’s objective of maintaining “a public, real-time platform where any user can create content, follow other users, and engage in an open and honest global conversation without fear of being censored or cancelled due to their political viewpoints.” See “ Risk Factors — Risks Related to TMTG’s Business — TMTG may be subject to greater risks than typical social media platforms because of the focus of its offerings and the involvement of President Trump.
Removed
The Company have received termination notices from certain PIPE Investors, who originally agreed to purchase up to 251,500 shares of the Company’s Series A Convertible Preferred Stock.
Added
These risks include active discouragement of users, harassment of advertisers or content providers, increased risk of hacking of TMTG’s platform, lesser need for Truth Social if First Amendment speech is no longer believed to be suppressed by other similar platforms, criticism of Truth Social for its moderation practices, and increased stockholder suits. ” Industry Overview Today many people get their news from the internet, including websites operated by newspapers and cable news providers.
Removed
Unless extended, the Merger Agreement may be terminated at any time in accordance with its terms, including by either Digital World or TMTG after September 20, 2022 (or after December 20, 2022 if extended by Digital World following the implementation of the Extension), and the shareholders may not have the chance to vote on the TMTG Business Combination if the Merger Agreement is terminated beforehand.
Added
According to a 2020 Pew Research Center survey, a large majority of Americans read news from digital devices. More than eight-in-ten U.S. adults (86%) say they get news from a smartphone, computer or tablet “often” or “sometimes,” including 60% who say they do so often.
Removed
Additionally, the SPAs with the PIPE Investors may be terminated by the PIPE Investors any time after September 20, 2022 if the TMTG Business Combination has not been consummated by such date.
Added
This is higher than the portion who get news from television, though 68% get news from TV at least sometimes and 40% do so often.
Removed
Furthermore, unless waived by the parties, the Company is required to file and obtain effectiveness of the Initial Resale Registration Statement on or before the closing of the TMTG Business Combination, subject to certain exceptions. The Initial Resale Registration Statement was filed on May 27, 2022 and has not been declared effective by the SEC.
Added
Americans turn to radio and print publications for news far less frequently, with half saying they turn to radio at least sometimes (16% do so often) and about a third (32%) saying the same of print (10% get news from print publications often).
Removed
Digital World believes that the SEC will not declare the Initial Resale Registration Statement effective until after the closing date of the TMTG Business Combination, and in order to close the PIPE as currently contemplated by the SPAs, the PIPE Investors have to waive the closing condition that requires effectiveness of the Initial Resale Registration Statement as of the closing date of the TMTG Business Combination.
Added
Social media sites such as X and Facebook have become popular platforms for public discussions and information gathering. These sites were originally characterized by the free exchange of ideas—in fact, the companies’ founders were often free-speech idealists.
Removed
The closing of the PIPE is conditioned on the closing of the TMTG Business Combination, effectiveness of an Initial Resale Registration Statement and other closing conditions. It is possible that the parties will restructure the PIPE or renegotiate such arrangements in view of the PIPE closing conditions, evolving market and regulatory conditions.
Added
The freewheeling marketplace of ideas they created, however, has been eviscerated by an overbearing censorship regime implemented by the few large, powerful corporations that now dominate the sector.
Removed
We do not have an estimate as to when any such renegotiation or amendment to the existing PIPE arrangements will be concluded. There is no assurance that such terms can be renegotiated on favorable terms, if at all.
Added
Even the founder and former CEO of X has lamented that “centralizing discovery and identity into corporations” has “really damaged the internet.” These corporations increasingly decide which viewpoints can and cannot be expressed on their platforms. No one, not even a sitting President of the United States, is beyond the reach of big tech censorship.
Removed
Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, TMTG is not required to consummate the TMTG Business Combination if the Company does not have at least $60,000,000 in available cash (including proceeds in connection with any private placement or any other alternative financing arrangement mutually agreed upon by the parties and prior to giving effect to the payment of unpaid expenses and liabilities) immediately prior to the consummation of the TMTG Business Combination (after taking into account payments required to satisfy redemptions by the Company’s stockholders) (the “Minimum Cash Condition”).
Added
This dynamic has become—as X’s (formerly Twitter’s) founder predicted it would—“destructive to the noble purpose and ideals of the open internet.” Social media companies employ, rely on, and have largely become captive to an ever-expanding faction of content moderators and so-called “fact checkers” who suppress content and promote so-called “algorithmic justice.” The means of censorship include shadow bans, temporary suspensions, misinformation warnings, removal of offending posts, and outright bans on users and accounts.
Removed
There can be no assurance that we can sustain sufficient PIPE commitments to meet this Minimum Cash Condition or secure an alternative financing transaction to support the TMTG Business Combination, or that we will find an alternative target if we are unable to consummate the TMTG Business Combination.
Added
Alarmingly, viewpoints are frequently suppressed simply for contradicting the prevailing media narrative on topics of public interest.
Removed
For more information about the TMTG Business Combination and the PIPE, see our Current Reports on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 6, 2021, October 21, 2021, October 26, 2021 and May 17, 2022, the proxy statement/prospectus included in the Form S-4 filed with the SEC on May 16, 2022, as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, and the definitive proxy statement filed with the SEC on August 25, 2022.
Added
As a result, users increasingly engage in self-censorship in an attempt to avoid takedowns, suspensions, and bans meted out by anonymous big tech censors. 11 Table of Contents This oppressive censorship creates opportunities for TMTG, which seeks to create a free-speech haven in the social media sphere.
Removed
Regulatory Approvals/Investigations We are the subject of an investigation by the SEC pursuant to Section 8(e) of the Securities Act, with respect to the Form S-4 relating to the TMTG Business Combination.
Added
Moreover, as America and the world have emerged from the isolation of a years-long pandemic, Truth Social intends to provide a global platform to help reconnect people and communities by fostering each individual’s unique and unencumbered free expression.
Removed
We and certain of our directors received subpoenas from the SEC seeking various documents regarding, among other things, our due diligence regarding TMTG, communications regarding and due diligence of potential targets other than TMTG, and relationships and communications between and among us (and/or certain of our officers and directors) and other entities (including 7 Table of Contents the sponsor and certain advisors, including our underwriter and financial advisor in the IPO).
Added
Company Growth Strategy As TMTG seeks to create a fully integrated media and technology company, it is pursuing these growth strategies: Grow Truth Social. TMTG believes that growth in Truth Social’s user base will drive more unique content, which in turn will drive the viral, organic promotion of content on Truth Social, thereby attracting more platform partners and advertisers.
Removed
In addition, we and each member of our Board received grand jury subpoenas seeking certain of the same documents demanded in the above-referenced SEC subpoenas, along with requests relating to our S-1 filings, communications with or about multiple individuals, and information regarding Rocket One Capital.
Added
TMTG also plans to grow Truth Social through the addition and refinement of user-friendly features—including the integration of video—and continued global expansion. As Truth Social attracts more users, the value proposition for advertisers increases, thereby incentivizing advertisers to develop unique and compelling content for the platform. Increase Product Offerings and Services.
Removed
These subpoenas, and the underlying investigations by the Department of Justice and the SEC, can be expected to delay effectiveness of the Form S-4, which could materially delay, materially impede, or prevent the consummation of the TMTG Business Combination.
Added
Organically and/or in partnership with third parties, TMTG intends to develop one or more additional cutting-edge products and/or services to complement the Truth Social platform.
Removed
Additionally, any resolution of the investigation could result in the imposition of significant penalties, injunctions, prohibitions on the conduct of our business, damage to our reputation and other sanctions against us.
Added
TMTG has conducted extensive technological due diligence regarding, and begun testing, a particular, state-of-the-art technology that supports video streaming and provides a “home” for cancelled content creators, and which TMTG is exploring with the aim to incorporate into its product offerings and/or services as soon as practicable. Pursue Strategic Acquisitions and/or Partnerships.

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Item 1A. Risk Factors

Risk Factors — what could go wrong, per management

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Removed
Item 1A. Risk Factors. As a smaller reporting company under Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act, we are not required to include risk factors in this Report.
Added
Item 1A. Risk Factors. Summary of Risk Factors Below is a summary of the principal factors that make an investment in our common stock speculative or risky. This summary does not address all of the risks that we face.
Removed
However, below is a partial list of material risks, uncertainties and other factors that could have a material effect on the Company and its operations: • we are a blank check company with no revenue or basis to evaluate our ability to select a suitable business target; • we may not be able to select an appropriate target business or businesses and complete our initial business combination, including the TMTG Business Combination, in the prescribed time frame; • our expectations around the performance of a prospective target business or businesses, such as TMTG, may not be realized; • since our Board approved the Transactions, we have experienced a number of regulatory delays, and we and TMTG may continue to experience additional delays in the future.
Added
Additional discussion of the risks summarized in this risk factor summary, and other risks that we face, can be found below under the heading “Risk Factors” and should be carefully considered, together with other information in this Form 10-K and our other filings with the SEC before making an investment decision regarding our common stock.
Removed
These delays could cause us to be unable to consummate the Transactions; • the Company was in the past, and continues to be, subject to inquiries, exams, pending investigations, or enforcement matters. We are cooperating with a FINRA inquiry concerning events (specifically, a review of trading) that preceded the public announcement of the Merger Agreement.
Added
Summary Risks Related to TMTG’s Business • TMTG has a limited operating history, making it difficult to evaluate TMTG’s business and prospects and may increase the risks associated with your investment. • TMTG’s actual financial position and results of operations may differ materially from the expectations of TMTG’s management. • If Truth Social fails to develop and maintain followers or a sufficient audience, if adverse trends develop in the social media platforms generally, or if President Trump were to cease to be able to devote substantial time to Truth Social, TMTG’s business would be adversely affected. • Digital World previously identified material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting, and TMTG may identify additional material weaknesses in its previously issued financial statements and in the future, which may cause TMTG to fail to meet its reporting obligations or result in material misstatements of its financial statements. • TMTG’s independent registered public accounting firm has indicated that TMTG’s financial condition raises substantial doubt as to its ability to continue as a going concern. • TMTG’s estimates of market opportunity and forecasts of market growth may be inaccurate. • TMTG’s business is subject to complex and evolving U.S. and foreign laws and regulations regarding privacy, data protection, and other matters. • In the future, TMTG may be involved in numerous class action lawsuits and other lawsuits and disputes. • Computer malware, viruses, hacking, and phishing attacks, and spamming could adversely affect TMTG’s business and results of operations. 22 Table of Contents Risks Related to President Donald J.
Removed
We are also cooperating with investigations by the SEC and the Department of Justice. In addition, we and each member of our Board received grand jury subpoenas seeking certain of the same documents demanded in the SEC subpoenas.
Added
Trump • TMTG’s success depends in part on the popularity of its brand and the reputation and popularity of President Trump. Adverse reactions to publicity relating to President Trump, or the loss of his services, could adversely affect TMTG’s revenues and results of operations. • President Trump is the subject of numerous legal proceedings.
Removed
Any resolution of the inquiry or investigation, as well as proceedings by the SEC, FINRA, or other governmental or regulatory authorities, could result in the imposition of significant fines, penalties, injunctions, prohibitions on the conduct of the Company’s business, damage to the Company’s reputation and other sanctions against it, including restrictions on its activities; • the SEC may delay declaring our S-4 Registration Statement effective or disapprove the Transactions and issue a stop order or similar order with respect to the S-4 Registration Statement, which could materially delay or materially impede the consummation of the TMTG Business Combination; • we may not be successful in retaining or recruiting required officers, key employees or directors following our initial business combination; • our officers and directors may have difficulties allocating their time between the Company and other businesses and may potentially have conflicts of interest with our business or in approving our initial business combination; • we may not be able to obtain additional financing to complete our initial business combination, including the TMTG Business Combination, or reduce the number of stockholders requesting redemption; 28 Table of Contents • unless extended, the Merger Agreement may be terminated at any time in accordance with its terms, including by either Digital World or TMTG after September 20, 2022, the SPAs may be terminated upon the termination of the Merger Agreement, and stockholders not have the chance to vote on the TMTG Business Combination; • during the pendency of the TMTG Business Combination, Digital World will not be able to enter into a business combination with another party because of restrictions in the Merger Agreement.
Added
An adverse outcome in one or more of the ongoing legal could negatively impact TMTG. • The terms of a license agreement with President Trump is not terminable by TMTG when it may be desirable to TMTG.
Removed
Furthermore, certain provisions of the Merger Agreement will discourage third parties from submitting alternative takeover proposals, including proposals that may be superior to the arrangements contemplated by the Merger Agreement.
Added
The license agreement does not require President Trump to use Truth Social in certain circumstances, including in connection with posts that President Trump deems, in his sole discretion, to be politically related. • Because President Trump is a candidate for president, he may divest his interest in Truth Social and may cease any involvement in its management. • TMTG depends on numerous third-parties to operate successfully, and many of these third parties may not want to engage with TMTG to provide any services.
Removed
There can be no assurance that Digital World will find an alternative target if it is unable to consummate the TMTG Business Combination; • it is possible that the parties will restructure the PIPE or renegotiate such arrangements in view of the PIPE closing conditions, evolving market and regulatory conditions.
Added
Risks Related to Ownership of TMTG Common Stock • Nasdaq may delist TMTG’s securities from trading on its exchange, which could subject TMTG to trading restrictions. • The market price of TMTG’s common stock may decline as a result of the Business Combination. • TMTG has discretion in the use of the net proceeds post-Closing and may not use them effectively. • TMTG stockholders may experience dilution in the future. • President Trump holds approximately 57.6% of the outstanding TMTG Common Stock, which limits other stockholders’ ability to influence the outcome of matters submitted to stockholders for approval. 23 Table of Contents Risk Factors We operate in a dynamic and rapidly changing environment that involves numerous risks and uncertainties.
Removed
There is no assurance that such terms can be renegotiated on favorable terms, if at all, that we will be able to secure an alternative financing transaction to support the TMTG Business Combination, or that we will find an alternative target if we are unable to consummate the TMTG Business Combination; • we may issue our shares to investors in connection with our initial business combination at a price that is less than the prevailing market price of our shares at that time; • the shareholders may not be given the opportunity to choose the initial business target or to vote on the initial business combination; • trust account funds may not be protected against third party claims or bankruptcy; • an active market for our public securities may not develop and the shareholders will have limited liquidity and trading; • the availability to us of funds from interest income on the trust account balance may be insufficient to operate our business prior to the business combination; • our financial performance following a business combination with an entity may be negatively affected by their lack of an established record of revenue, cash flows and experienced management; • there may be more competition to find an attractive target for an initial business combination, which could increase the costs associated with completing our business combination; • changes in the market for directors and officers liability insurance could make it more difficult and more expensive for us to negotiate and complete an initial business combination; • we may attempt to simultaneously complete business combinations with multiple prospective targets, which may hinder our ability to complete our initial business combination and give rise to increased costs and risks that could negatively impact our operations and profitability; • we may engage one or more of our underwriters or one of their respective affiliates to provide additional services to us after the initial public offering, which may include acting as a financial advisor in connection with an initial business combination or as placement agent in connection with a related financing transaction.
Added
Certain factors may have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations, and you should carefully consider them.
Removed
Our underwriters are entitled to receive deferred underwriting commissions that will be released from the trust account only upon a completion of an initial business combination.
Added
Accordingly, in evaluating our business, we encourage you to consider the following discussion of risk factors in its entirety, in addition to other information contained in this Form 10-K and our other public filings with the SEC.
Removed
These financial incentives may cause them to have potential conflicts of interest in rendering any such additional services to us after the initial public offering, including, for example, in connection with the sourcing and consummation of an initial business combination; • we may attempt to complete our initial business combination with a private company about which little information is available, which may result in a business combination with a company that is not as profitable as we suspected, if at all; • since our initial stockholders will lose their entire investment in us if our initial business combination is not completed (other than with respect to any public shares they may acquire during or after our initial 29 Table of Contents public offering), and because our sponsor, officers and directors may profit substantially even under circumstances in which our public stockholders would experience losses in connection with their investment, a conflict of interest may arise in determining whether a particular business combination target is appropriate for our initial business combination; • changes in laws or regulations or how such laws or regulations are interpreted or applied, or a failure to comply with any laws or regulations, may adversely affect our business, including our ability to negotiate and complete our initial business combination, and results of operations; • the value of the founder shares following completion of our initial business combination is likely to be substantially higher than the nominal price paid for them, even if the trading price of our common stock at such time is substantially less than $10.00 per share; • resources could be wasted in researching acquisitions that are not completed, which could materially adversely affect subsequent attempts to locate and acquire or merge with another business.
Added
Other events that we do not currently anticipate or that we currently deem immaterial may also affect our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations. Risks Related to TMTG’s Business TMTG has a limited operating history, making it difficult to evaluate TMTG’s business and prospects and may increase the risks associated with your investment.
Removed
If we have not completed our initial business combination within the Combination Period, our public stockholders may receive only approximately $10.45 per share (which represents the amount in the trust account as of December 31, 2021 before deduction of any payment of tax obligations or up to $100,000 to be used for liquidation expenses from interest earned on the funds in the trust account), or less than such amount in certain circumstances, on the liquidation of our trust account and our warrants will expire worthless; • in March 2022, the SEC issued proposed rules relating to certain activities of SPACs.
Added
Private TMTG was formed on February 8, 2021 and started formulating its business plan at that time. Private TMTG did not begin developing the Truth Social platform until June 2021. Private TMTG made Truth Social available for general use in the first quarter of 2022. We pride ourselves on building Truth Social without relying on hostile technology companies.
Removed
Certain of the procedures that we, a potential business combination target, or others may determine to undertake in connection with such proposals may increase our costs and the time needed to complete our initial business combination and may constrain the circumstances under which we could complete an initial business combination.
Added
Working exclusively with alternative technology firms that share our commitment to free speech, Private TMTG fully launched Truth Social for iOS in April 2022. Private TMTG debuted the Truth Social web application in May 2022, and the Truth Social Android App became available in the Samsung Galaxy and Google Play stores in October 2022.
Removed
The need for compliance with such proposals may cause us to liquidate the funds in the trust account or liquidate the Company at an earlier time than we might otherwise choose; • if we are deemed to be an investment company for purposes of the Investment Company Act, we would be required to institute burdensome compliance requirements and our activities would be severely restricted.
Added
Private TMTG introduced direct messaging to all versions of Truth Social in 2022, released a new “Groups” feature for users in May 2023, and announced the general availability of Truth Social internationally in June 2023.
Removed
As a result, in such circumstances, unless we are able to modify our activities so that we would not be deemed an investment company, we may abandon our efforts to complete an initial business combination and instead liquidate the Company; • to mitigate the risk that we might be deemed to be an investment company for purposes of the Investment Company Act, we may at any time instruct the trustee to liquidate the investments held in the trust account and instead to hold the funds in the trust account in an interest bearing demand deposit account until the earlier of the consummation of our initial business combination or our liquidation.
Added
TMTG cannot assure you that it will be able to operate its business successfully or implement its operating policies and strategies as described elsewhere in this Report.
Removed
As a result, following the liquidation of investments in the trust account, we would likely receive less interest on the funds held in the trust account, which would likely reduce the dollar amount our public stockholders would receive upon any redemption or liquidation of the Company; • recent increases in inflation and interest rates in the United States and elsewhere could make it more difficult for us to consummate an initial business combination; • military conflict in Ukraine or elsewhere may lead to increased price volatility for publicly traded securities, which could make it more difficult for us to consummate an initial business combination; • a 1% U.S. federal excise tax may be imposed on us in connection with our redemptions of shares in connection with a business combination or other stockholder vote pursuant to which stockholders would have a right to submit their shares for redemption; • we may be deemed a “foreign person” under the regulations relating to CFIUS and our failure to obtain any required approvals within the requisite time period may require us to liquidate; • there is substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a “going concern”; and • we have identified a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2022.
Added
TMTG may encounter risks and challenges frequently experienced by growing companies in rapidly developing industries, including risks related to its ability to: • build a reputation for providing a superior platform and customer service, and for creating trust and long-term relationships with its potential customers; • implement a revenue model allowing it to develop predictable revenues; • distinguish itself from competitors and navigate political issues; • develop and offer a competitive platform that meets TMTG’s customers’ needs as they change; • improve TMTG’s current operational infrastructure and non-platform technology to support its growth and to respond to the evolution of TMTG’s market and competitors’ developments; • develop, maintain and expand TMTG’s relationships with suppliers of quality advertising; • respond to complex, evolving, stringent, contradictory industry standards and government regulation on an international scale that impact TMTG’s business; • prevent, detect, respond to, or mitigate failures or breaches of privacy and security; and • hire and retain qualified and motivated employees.
Removed
If we are unable to develop and maintain an effective system of internal control 30 Table of Contents over financial reporting, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results in a timely manner, which may adversely affect investor confidence in us and materially and adversely affect our business and operating results.
Added
If TMTG is unable to do so, its business may suffer, its revenue and operating results may decline and TMTG may not be able to achieve further growth or sustain profitability. 24 Table of Contents Since inception, Private TMTG has continuously sought to, and following the Closing TMTG will continue to seek to, improve its business model by developing its technology as an early stage company.
Removed
For the complete list of risks relating to our operations, the TMTG Business Combination and the PIPE, see the section titled “Risk Factors” contained in our (i) Registration Statement, (ii) Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021, as filed with the SEC on April 13, 2022, (iii) Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarterly periods ended March 31, 2022, June 30, 2022 and September 30, 2022, as filed with the SEC on May 19, 2022, August 23, 2022, and November 21, 2022, respectively, (iv) S-4 Registration Statement and (v) the definitive proxy statement filed with the SEC on August 25, 2022.
Added
TMTG expects to incur operating losses for the foreseeable future. Truth Social has been generally available only since the first quarter of 2022. Further, although Private TMTG targeted and assembled certain intellectual property and real or intangible property rights, our business plan is still developing. Accordingly, TMTG has no way to evaluate the likelihood that its business will be successful.
Removed
Any of these factors could result in a significant or material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition. Additional risks could arise that may also affect our business or ability to consummate an initial business combination.
Added
Potential investors should be aware of the difficulties normally encountered by a new social media platform and the high rate of failure for such enterprises. The likelihood of success must be considered in light of the problems, expenses, difficulties, complications and delays encountered in connection with the operations that TMTG plans to undertake.
Removed
We may disclose changes to such risk factors or disclose additional risk factors from time to time in our future filings with the SEC. Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments. Not applicable.
Added
These potential problems include, but are not limited to, unanticipated problems relating to the development of Truth Social, lack of widespread acceptance of Truth Social by users, and challenges attracting potential vendors to participate in Truth Social’s development, and any additional costs and expenses that may exceed current estimates. TMTG expects to incur significant losses into the foreseeable future.
Added
TMTG recognizes that if the effectiveness of its business plan is not forthcoming it will not be able to continue business operations. There is limited operating history upon which to base any assumption as to the likelihood that TMTG will prove successful, and TMTG may never generate sufficient operating revenues to achieve profitable operations.
Added
If TMTG is unsuccessful in addressing these risks, its business will most likely fail. 25 Table of Contents TMTG’s actual financial position and results of operations may differ materially from the expectations of TMTG’s management. TMTG’s actual financial position and results of operations may differ materially from management’s expectations.
Added
As a result, TMTG’s revenue, net income and cash flow may differ materially from TMTG’s expected revenue, net income and cash flow. The process for estimating TMTG’s revenue, net income and cash flow requires the use of judgment in determining the appropriate assumptions and estimates.
Added
These estimates and assumptions may be revised as additional information becomes available and as additional analyses are performed.. TMTG does not currently, and may never, collect, monitor or report certain key operating metrics used by companies in similar industries.
Added
Since its inception, Private TMTG focused on developing Truth Social by enhancing features and user interface rather than relying on traditional performance metrics like average revenue per user, ad impressions and pricing, or active user accounts, including monthly and daily active users.
Added
While many industry peers may gather and report on these or similar metrics, given the early development stage of Truth Social, Private TMTG’s management and board did not rely on, and TMTG’s management and board does not anticipate relying on, any particular key performance metric to make business or operating decisions.
Added
Concurrent with access to new capital and resources following the Business Combination, TMTG is actively evaluating the most relevant, reliable and appropriate key operating metrics that align with its evolving business model.
Added
At this juncture in its development, TMTG believes that adhering to traditional key performance indicators, such as signups, average revenue per user, ad impressions and pricing, or active user accounts including monthly and daily active users, could potentially divert its focus from strategic evaluation with respect to the progress and growth of its business.
Added
TMTG believes that focusing on these KPIs might not align with the best interests of TMTG or its shareholders, as it could lead to short-term decision-making at the expense of long-term innovation and value creation.
Added
Therefore, TMTG believes that this strategic evaluation is critical and aligns with its commitment to a robust business plan that includes introducing innovative features and new technologies.
Added
In connection with such evaluation, and consistent with SEC guidance, TMTG will consider whether it has effective controls and procedures in place to process information related to the disclosure of key performance indicators and metrics to ensure consistency as well as accuracy period over period, or the feasibility of implementing any such controls and procedures.
Added
If so, TMTG may decide to collect and report such metrics if they are deemed to significantly enhance investors’ understanding of TMTG’s financial condition, cash flows, and other aspects of its financial performance.
Added
However, TMTG may find it difficult or resource-prohibitive to implement such effective controls and procedures and may never collect, monitor or report any or certain key operating metrics, which is likely to make it difficult it for stockholders in TMTG to evaluate and compare TMTG’s performance to that of companies in similar industries. 26 Table of Contents If the use of third-party cookies or other tracking technology is restricted by third parties outside of TMTG’s control, rejected by Truth Social’s users, or otherwise subject to unfavorable regulation, TMTG’s ability to tailor, improve and provide a consistent experience to Truth Social’s users would be negatively impacted, which could materially and adversely affect TMTG’s growth prospects and financial performance.
Added
TMTG’s Truth Social platform is still in an early development stage, however, as other similar companies in the space, TMTG expects to generate substantial revenue from advertisements. Accordingly, Truth Social’s ability to use third-party cookies to provide advertising companies relevant data for their advertisements is critical to its revenue generation potential.
Added
However, with increasing restrictions on third party cookies, Truth Social may lose the ability to track user behavior across its platform, which could negatively affect its ability to retain advertisers on its platform and effectively advertise their services.
Added
Truth Social’s use of cookies aids its development and ability to improve its services in response to user preferences and to provide its users with relevant offers from advertisers.
Added
Recently, web and mobile browser developers, such as Apple, Microsoft or Google, have implemented and may continue to implement changes, including requiring additional user permissions, in their browsers or device operating systems that impair Truth Social’s ability to track cookies and improve the effectiveness of advertising on its platform.
Added
Such changes include limiting the use of first-party and third-party cookies and related tracking technologies, such as mobile advertising identifiers, and other changes that limit Truth Social’s ability to collect information that allows it to attribute members’ actions on advertisers’ websites to the effectiveness of advertising campaigns run on the platform.
Added
For example, Apple launched its Intelligent Tracking Prevention (“ITP”) feature in its Safari browser. ITP blocks some or all third-party cookies by default on mobile and desktop and ITP has become increasingly restrictive over time.
Added
Similarly, on January 4, 2024, Google began testing a new feature on its Chrome browser called “Tracking Protection.” This feature limits cross-site tracking by restricting website access to third-party cookies by default.
Added
Google is expected to implement the Tracking Protection Tool in all Chrome browsers by the end of the second quarter of 2024, essentially no longer supporting third-party cookies in its Google Chrome browser. Third-party cookies have been a fundamental part of the web for nearly three decades, aiding platforms in generating relevant ads, among other functions.
Added
These web and mobile browser developers have also implemented and may continue to implement changes and restrictions in browser or device functionality that limit TMTG’s ability to communicate with or understand its business and users.
Added
As such, the implementation of these changes could significantly impair TMTG’s ability to tailor, improve and provide a consistent experience to its users, which in turn could materially and adversely affect its growth prospects and financial performance.
Added
In addition, federal, state and international governmental authorities continue to evaluate the privacy implications inherent in the use of proprietary or third-party cookies and other methods of online tracking for behavioral advertising and other purposes.
Added
U.S. and foreign governments have enacted, have considered or are considering legislation or regulations that could significantly restrict the ability of companies and individuals to engage in these activities, such as by regulating the level of consumer notice and consent required before a company can employ cookies or other electronic tracking tools or the use of data gathered with such tools.
Added
Additionally, some providers of consumer devices and web browsers have implemented, or announced plans to implement, means to make it easier for internet users to prevent the placement of cookies or to block other tracking technologies, which could if widely adopted significantly reduce the effectiveness of such practices and technologies.
Added
The regulation of the use of cookies and other current online tracking and advertising practices or a loss in TMTG’s ability to make effective use of services that employ such technologies could increase its costs of operations and limit its ability to acquire new customers on cost-effective terms and consequently, materially adversely affect its business, financial condition and operating results. 27 Table of Contents TMTG’s reputation, competitive advantage, financial position and relationships with its users could be materially harmed if TMTG is unable to comply with complex and evolving data protection and privacy, security, and breach of notification laws and regulations, and the costs and resources required to achieve compliance may have a materially adverse impact.
Added
TMTG’s reputation, competitive advantage, financial position and relationships with its users could be materially harmed if TMTG is accused of a violation or is unable to comply with complex and evolving data protection and privacy, security, and breach of notification laws and regulations, and the costs and resources required to achieve compliance on an international scale may have a materially adverse impact on its business.
Added
In the course of delivering TMTG’s product(s), TMTG expects to use, disclose, control, process, collect, transmit and store information that is related to and seeks to correlate internet-connected devices, user activity and the advertisements it places.
Added
Federal, state, and international laws and regulations govern the protection, collection, use, processing, retention, sharing, privacy, and security of data that TMTG may access, use, disclose, transfer, store, and collect across TMTG’s operational and advertising solutions.
Added
TMTG strives to comply with all applicable laws, regulations, policies and legal obligations relating to privacy, security, and data protection, collection, processing use, disclosure, transmission, and storage.
Added
However, the applicability of specific laws may be unclear in some cases and domestic and foreign government laws, regulations, and enforcement of data practices and data tracking technologies is expansive, poorly defined and rapidly evolving.
Added
In addition, it is possible that these requirements may be interpreted and applied in a manner that is new or inconsistent from one jurisdiction to another and may conflict with other laws, regulations, or rules or TMTG’s practices.
Added
Any actual or perceived failure by TMTG to comply with U.S. federal, state or international laws, including laws and regulations regulating data privacy, security or consumer protection, or use, disclosure or unauthorized access to or by third parties to this information, could result in proceedings or actions against TMTG by government entities, competitors, private parties or others.
Added
Any proceedings or actions against TMTG alleging violations of consumer or data protection laws or asserting privacy-related or security-related theories could hurt TMTG’s reputation, force TMTG to cease operations or force TMTG to spend significant amounts in defense of these proceedings, distract its management, increase its costs of doing business, adversely affect the demand for its solutions and ultimately result in the imposition of monetary liability.
Added
TMTG may also be contractually liable to indemnify and hold harmless TMTG’s customers, vendors or third parties from the costs or consequences of litigation resulting from using TMTG’s solutions or from the disclosure of confidential information, which could damage TMTG’s reputation among its current and potential customers, and may require significant expenditures of capital and other resources that could cause it to lose significant business and revenue.
Added
The collection, protection and use of personal information, personally identifiable information and/or personal data (collectively referred to as “personal data” for ease of reference) is governed by data protection, privacy, security and breach laws and regulations enacted in the United States and other jurisdictions around the world in which TMTG operates or plans to operate.
Added
These laws and regulations continue to evolve and may be inconsistent from one jurisdiction to another. Compliance with applicable privacy, security and breach laws and regulations may increase TMTG’s costs of doing business and adversely impact its ability to conduct its business and market its solutions, products and services to its users and potential users.
Added
In the U.S., there is not one comprehensive data protection, consumer protection, data privacy, security, or breach notification law. Rather, numerous state and federal laws must be complied with by TMTG simultaneously across U.S. jurisdictions. Various types of companies and their data are regulated by stringent industry specific regulations and standards based on data type and sensitivity.
Added
All fifty (50) states and four U.S. territories have enacted consumer protection laws that require notice of data breaches. Many U.S. states (at least 27) require comprehensive data protection, privacy and/or security compliance programs.
Added
These include, but are not limited to, the California Consumer Privacy Act, as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act, the Arkansas Social Media Safety Act, and the Utah Social Media Regulation Act may affect TMTG. There are also a number of legislative proposals pending before the U.S.
Added
Congress, various state legislative bodies, and foreign governments concerning data protection that could affect TMTG. At this time some states have laws restricting the use and disclosure of minor’s user data, biometric data and/or health information without notice and/or express consent of a natural person of the age of majority with appropriate legal authority to consent.

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Item 3. Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings — active lawsuits and investigations

2 edited+63 added12 removed1 unchanged
Biggest changeItem 3. Legal Proceedings. Except as indicated below, to the knowledge of our management team, except as disclosed below, there is no litigation currently pending or contemplated against us, any of our officers or directors in their capacity as such or against any of our property.
Biggest changeItem 3. Legal Proceedings. Except as indicated below, to the knowledge of our management team, there is no litigation currently pending or contemplated against us, or against any of our property.
We are cooperating with a FINRA inquiry concerning events (specifically, a review of trading) that preceded the public announcement of the Merger Agreement.
We have cooperated with a FINRA inquiry concerning events (specifically, a review of trading) that preceded the public announcement of the Merger Agreement and the consummation of the Business Combination.
Removed
We are also cooperating with an SEC investigation, including responding to several document requests and subpoenas from the SEC to us and certain of our directors seeking various documents and information regarding, among other things, meetings of our board of directors; communications with and the evaluation of potential targets, including TMTG; communications relating to TMTG; agreements with and payments made to certain advisors; investors, including investor meetings and agreements; the appointment of certain of our officers and directors; policies and procedures relating to trading; and documents sufficient to identify banking, telephone, and email addresses; our due diligence regarding TMTG, communications regarding and due diligence of potential targets other than TMTG; and relationships between and among the Company (and/or certain of the Company’s officers and directors) and other entities (including the sponsor and certain advisors, including the 31 Table of Contents Company’s underwriter and financial advisor in its initial public offering).
Added
Settlement in Principle Digital World was the subject of an investigation by the SEC with respect to certain statements, agreements and the timing thereof included in Digital World’s registration statements on Form S-1 in connection with its IPO and Form S-4 relating to the Business Combination (the “Investigation”).
Removed
According to the SEC’s request and subpoena, the investigation does not mean that the SEC has concluded that anyone violated the law or that the SEC has a negative opinion of us or any person, entity, or security.
Added
On July 3, 2023, Digital World reached an agreement in principle (the “Settlement in Principle”) in connection with the Investigation. The Settlement in Principle was subject to approval by the SEC.
Removed
Any resolution of the inquiry or investigation, as well as proceedings by the SEC, FINRA, or other governmental or regulatory authorities, could result in the imposition of significant fines, penalties, injunctions, prohibitions on the conduct of our business, damage to our reputation and other sanctions against us, including restrictions on our activities.
Added
On July 20, 2023, the SEC approved the Settlement in Principle, announcing it settled its dispute with Digital World and entered an order (the “Order”) finding that Digital World violated certain antifraud provisions of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act, in connection with Digital World’s IPO filings on Form S-1 and the Form S-4 concerning certain statements, agreements and omissions relating to the timing and discussions Digital World had with TMTG regarding the proposed business combination.
Removed
The SEC also issued an order of examination pursuant to Section 8(e) of the Securities Act, with respect to the S-4 Registration Statement relating to the Transactions with TMTG, and a further subpoena in support thereof.
Added
In the Order, Digital World agreed (i) that any amended Form S-4 filed by Digital World would be materially complete and accurate with respect to certain statements, agreements and omissions relating to the timing and discussions that Digital World had with TMTG regarding the proposed business combination and (ii) to pay a civil money penalty in an amount of $18 million to the SEC promptly after the closing of any merger or a comparable business combination or transaction, whether with TMTG or any other entity.
Removed
This subpoena seeks additional documents and information with respect to, among other things, communications regarding and due diligence of potential targets other than TMTG, relationships between and among the Company (and/or certain of the Company’s officers and directors) and other entities (including the sponsor) and certain advisors, including the Company’s underwriter and financial advisor in its initial public offering), the holders of ownership interests in the sponsor, certain elements of the transaction history for equity in the sponsor, and certain forward-looking information about TMTG referenced in the S-4 Registration Statement.
Added
In connection with the consummation of the Business Combination, on March 25, 2024, Digital World paid the $18 million civil penalty to the SEC pursuant to the Order. Section 16 Claim On October 20, 2023, Robert Lowinger (the “Plaintiff”) filed a complaint against Rocket One Capital, LLC (“Rocket One”), Michael Shvartsman, Bruce Garelick, and Digital World in the U.S.
Removed
Any resolution of the investigation could result in the imposition of significant penalties, injunctions, prohibitions on the conduct of the Company’s business, damage to its reputation and other sanctions against the Company.
Added
District Court for the Southern District of New York. According to the complaint, Digital World was named as a party in the lawsuit because the Plaintiff is seeking relief for the benefit of Digital World. In the complaint, the Plaintiff contends that, in 2021, Mr.
Removed
In addition, the Section 8(e) order of examination of the S-4 Registration Statement can be expected to delay effectiveness of the S-4 Registration Statement, which could materially delay, materially impede, or prevent the consummation of the Transactions.
Added
Garelick and Rocket One were directors of Digital World and that they purchased securities of Digital World. The Plaintiff further alleges that within a six-month period from the date of their purchases, both Mr. Garelick and Rocket One sold securities in Digital World and realized profits from those sales. Additionally, the Plaintiff alleges that Mr.
Removed
In addition, the Company and each member of its board of directors received grand jury subpoenas seeking certain of the same documents demanded in the above-referenced SEC subpoenas, along with requests relating to the Company’s S-1 filings, communications with or about multiple individuals, and information regarding Rocket One Capital.
Added
Shvartsman had a financial interest in the profits resulting from Rocket One’s purchases and sales of Digital World’s securities. According to the Plaintiff, under Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act (15 U.S.C. §78p(b)), Rocket One, Mr. Shvartsman, and Mr. Garelick are each required to disgorge certain trading profits to Digital World.
Removed
The Company has been informed that on June 27, 2022 TMTG received a subpoena from the SEC seeking documents relating to, among other things, the Company and other potential counterparties for a business transaction involving TMTG.
Added
On January 11, 2024, Digital World filed a pre-motion letter with the court, indicating Digital World’s intention to file a motion to dismiss in relation to the matter. This pre-motion letter was subsequently endorsed by the court on January 17, 2024. The court provided a deadline of January 22, 2024 for the Plaintiff to respond to Digital World’s pre-motion letter.
Removed
The Company has also been informed that on June 30, 2022, TMTG was served with a subpoena, issued by a federal grand jury sitting in the Southern District of New York, seeking a subset of the same or similar documents demanded in subpoenas to the Company and its directors.
Added
On March 1, 2024, Digital world filed a motion to dismiss the claims against Digital World. On March 15, 2024, Plaintiff Robert Lowinger filed an opposition to Digital World’s motion to dismiss. On March 22, 2024, Digital World filed a reply in support of its motion to dismiss the claims against Digital World. The case is Lowinger v.
Removed
Certain current and former TMTG personnel have also recently received individual grand jury subpoenas. These subpoenas, and the underlying investigations by the SEC and the U.S. Department of Justice, can be expected to delay effectiveness of the S-4 Registration Statement, which could materially delay, materially impede, or prevent the consummation of the Transactions. Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.
Added
Rocket One Capital, LLC, et al., No. 1:23-cv-9243 (S.D.N.Y.
Removed
Not applicable. 32 Table of Contents PART II
Added
Oct. 20, 2023). 70 Table of Contents Litigation with United Atlantic Ventures (“UAV”) in Delaware On July 30, 2021, an attorney for the Trump Organization, on behalf of President Trump, declared void ab initio a services agreement that had granted TMTG, among other things, extensive intellectual property and digital media rights related to President Trump for purposes of commercializing the various Private TMTG initiatives (the “Services Agreement”).
Added
Neither Private TMTG nor Digital World was a party to such agreement. On each of January 18, 2024 and February 9, 2024, Digital World received letters from counsel to UAV, a party to the Services Agreement.
Added
The letters contained certain assertions and enclosed a copy of the Services Agreement that had been declared void by an attorney of President Donald J. Trump nearly two and a half years prior.
Added
Specifically, counsel for UAV claims that the Services Agreement grants UAV rights to (1) appoint two directors to TMTG and its successors ( i.e. , TMTG after the Business Combination), (2) approve or disapprove of the creation of additional TMTG shares or share classes and anti-dilution protection for future issuances and (3) a $1.0 million expense reimbursement claim.
Added
In addition, UAV asserts that the Services Agreement is not void ab initio and claims that certain events following the July 30, 2021 notification support its assertion that such Services Agreement was not void.
Added
On February 6, 2024, a representative of UAV sent a text message to a representative of a noteholder of TMTG suggesting that UAV might seek to enjoin the Business Combination.
Added
On February 9, 2024, Private TMTG received from counsel to UAV a letter similar to those received by Digital World, which also threatened Private TMTG with legal action regarding UAV’s alleged rights in Private TMTG, including, if necessary, an action to enjoin consummation of the Business Combination.
Added
On February 28, 2024, UAV filed a verified complaint against Private TMTG in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware seeking declaratory and injunctive relief relating to the authorization, issuance, and ownership of stock in Private TMTG and filed a motion for expedited proceedings.
Added
On March 6, 2024, Private TMTG filed an opposition to UAV’s motion to expedite, and UAV filed its response on March 8, 2024. On March 9, 2024, the Chancery Court held a hearing to decide UAV’s motion to expedite proceedings.
Added
During the oral argument, Private TMTG agreed that any additional shares of Private TMTG issued prior to or upon the consummation of the Business Combination would be placed in escrow pending a resolution of the dispute between the parties.
Added
The court issued a written order consistent with the foregoing on March 15, 2024, and scheduled a status conference for April 1, 2024. Bradford Cohen On January 22, 2024, Private TMTG received a letter from a counsel to Mr. Cohen, who purportedly represented President Donald J. Trump in connection with the Services Agreement, but was not a party thereto.
Added
The letter sought to inspect Private TMTG’s books and records pursuant to Delaware and Florida law and requested that Private TMTG preserve records for the last three years. Private TMTG responded via counsel on January 29, 2024. Since January 22, 2024, Mr. Cohen has reached out to TMTG on several occasions. Mr.
Added
Cohen asserts that the Services Agreement, declared void by Mr. Cohen’s ostensible client on July 30, 2021, confers certain rights upon Mr. Cohen with respect to the capitalization of Private TMTG.
Added
As the potential claims described above were recently asserted, and the potential disputes arising therefrom are in their early stages, TMTG is not able to assess the impact of such claims on their respective businesses and stockholders, or those of the TMTG following the Business Combination.
Added
As a general matter, the defense of such potential claims may be costly and time consuming and could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s reputation and its existing stockholders.
Added
Lawsuit Against ARC and Patrick Orlando On February 26, 2024, representatives of ARC claimed to Digital World that after a “more comprehensive” review, the conversion ratio for Digital World Class B common stock into Digital World Class A common stock upon the completion of the Business Combination was approximately 1.8:1. ARC’s new claim also contradicted the previous assertion by Mr.
Added
Patrick Orlando, the managing member of ARC, that the conversion ratio was 1.68:1. Digital World’s board of directors viewed these claims as an attempt by Mr. Orlando to secure personal benefits, breaching his fiduciary duty to Digital World and its shareholders.
Added
Digital World and Private TMTG initiated a lawsuit against ARC (Case No. 192862534) in the Civil Division for the Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court in Sarasota County, Florida, on February 27, 2024.
Added
The complaint sought a declaratory judgment affirming the appropriate conversion ratio as 1.34:1, as previously disclosed, damages for tortious interference with the contractual and business relationship between Private TMTG and Digital World, and damages for conspiracy with unnamed co-conspirators to interfere with the same. It also sought damages for Mr.
Added
Orlando’s breach of fiduciary duty, which exposed Digital World to regulatory liability and resulted in an $18 million penalty, and for his continuous obstruction of Digital World’s merger with Private TMTG to extort various concessions that benefited only him and harmed Digital World and its shareholders.
Added
Furthermore, it sought damages for the wrongful assertion of dominion over Digital World’s assets inconsistent with Digital World’s possessory rights over those assets. On March 8, 2024, Digital World voluntarily dismissed its declaratory judgment claim against ARC.
Added
On March 17, 2024, Digital World and Private TMTG filed an amended complaint, adding a claim for violation of Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act. Digital World further alleged breach of fiduciary duty of loyalty, breach of fiduciary duty of care, and conversion claims against Patrick Orlando.
Added
With respect to ARC, Digital World alleged aiding and abetting a breach of fiduciary duty. 71 Table of Contents On the afternoon of February 28, 2024, ARC’s registered agent in Wilmington, Delaware, and Mr. Orlando were served with the complaint filed by Digital World and Private TMTG.
Added
Later that day, ARC’s counsel electronically mailed Digital World’s counsel a lawsuit, filed in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, alleging an impending violation of the Digital World Charter for failure to commit to issue the number of conversion shares to ARC that ARC claims it is owed upon the consummation of the Business Combination.
Added
The complaint claims a new conversion ratio of 1.78:1 and seeks specific performance and damages for the alleged breach of the Digital World Charter, a declaratory judgment that the certain derivative securities of Digital World should be included in the calculation of the conversion ratio, a finding that the directors of Digital World breached their fiduciary duties, and a preliminary injunction to enjoin the Business Combination until Digital World “corrected” the conversion ratio.
Added
We do not believe ARC’s 1.78:1 conversion ratio and related claims are supported by the terms of the Digital World Charter. As a result, we intend to vigorously defend Digital World’s calculation of the conversion ratio and related rights.
Added
In addition to its complaint filed on February 28, 2024, ARC also filed a motion with the Chancery Court requesting that the case schedule be expedited to enable the Chancery Court to conduct an injunction hearing prior to the March 22, 2024 shareholder vote.
Added
On March 3, 2024, Digital World filed an opposition to ARC’s motion to expedite, and ARC filed a reply on March 4, 2024. On March 5, 2024, the Chancery Court conducted a hearing to consider ARC’s request to expedite the case schedule.
Added
After hearing arguments from both sides, the Vice Chancellor denied ARC’s motion, stating that the court would not conduct a merits or injunction hearing before March 22, 2024. Consequently, ARC’s request to postpone the vote until after a merits hearing was also denied.
Added
The Chancery Court ruled that Digital World’s proposal to deposit disputed shares into an escrow account at the close of the Business Combination was adequate to prevent potential irreparable harm related to ARC’s share conversion.
Added
The court also found that Digital World’s public disclosures about ARC’s claims and possible conversion scenarios at the close of the Business Combination further mitigated the risk of irreparable harm due to insufficient disclosure for the March 22, 2024 vote.
Added
In its ruling, the Chancery Court ordered ARC and Digital World to propose a schedule by March 8, 2024, for resolving the action within 150 days following the Business Combination.
Added
The court also asked the parties to provide a stipulation by March 8, 2024, regarding ARC’s ability to maintain standing over its claim after voting in favor of the Business Combination.
Added
The court further requested the parties to agree to the creation of an escrow account for the deposit of disputed shares after the Business Combination, to be held until the action concludes.
Added
Lastly, the court asked Digital World’s counsel to submit a letter by March 8, 2024, outlining how this litigation will proceed alongside the Florida litigation filed by Digital World on February 27, 2024, in the Circuit Court of Sarasota County, Florida.
Added
On March 8, 2024, Digital World submitted a letter to the Chancery Court, stating that it had voluntarily dismissed its claim for declaratory judgment in the Circuit Court of Sarasota County, Florida. On March 22, 2024, the Chancery Court entered a Scheduling Order setting the case for a single-day trial on June 26, 2024.
Added
In relation to the Delaware Lawsuit, Digital World notified its shareholders on March 14, 2024, of its intention to apply a conversion ratio to all Digital World Class B common stock shares to ensure that the Sponsor and the Non-ARC Class B Shareholders receive an equal number of common stock shares in the Company per share of Digital World Class B common stock.
Added
Accordingly, on March 21, 2024, Digital World entered into the Disputed Shares Escrow Agreements with the Escrow Agent, pursuant to which TMTG deposited into escrow the number of shares of TMTG Common Stock representing the difference between the actual conversion ratio, determined by Digital World’s board of directors upon closing of the Business Combination (which was determined to be 1.348:1), and a conversion ratio of 2.00.
Added
Any release of shares is subject to the terms and conditions of the Disputed Shares Escrow Agreements, which are filed with and incorporated by reference into this Report. The ultimate resolution as to whether none, a portion or all of the disputed conversion shares will be issued is not determinable at this time.
Added
As a general matter, the pursuit of the claims may be costly and time consuming and could have a material adverse effect on TMTG’s reputation and its existing stockholders and may result in counterclaims.
Added
Lawsuit Against Patrick Orlando in Delaware On March 15, 2024, Plaintiff Patrick Orlando brought a lawsuit against Digital World in the Chancery Court seeking advancement of legal fees associated with Mr. Orlando’s involvement in civil litigation against Digital World in Florida and certain other matters (the “Advancement Lawsuit”). Mr.
Added
Orlando’s allegations relate to certain provisions in Digital World’s Charter, Digital World’s bylaws, and an indemnity agreement allegedly entered into between Mr. Orlando and Digital World. Mr. Orlando alleges that those certain provisions require Digital World to pay the legal fees Mr.
Added
Orlando incurred and will incur in connection with legal proceedings in which he is involved by reason of the fact that he is or was a director or officer of Digital World. Mr.
Added
Orlando seeks a court order that (i) declares that he is entitled to legal fees for certain proceedings described in the complaint, (ii) requires Digital World to pay for legal fees incurred and future legal fees to be incurred for those proceedings, (iii) requires Digital World to pay the fees incurred to bring the Advancement Lawsuit, and (iv) requires Digital World to pay pre- and post-judgment interest on the amounts owed to Mr.
Added
Orlando. 72 Table of Contents Lawsuit Against ARC in New York On March 19, 2024, Plaintiff Digital World filed a lawsuit against ARC in New York state court alleging breach of contract and seeking injunctive relief.
Added
Digital World’s claims related to an agreement between Digital World and ARC entered into in September 2021 (the “Letter Agreement”), whereby ARC promised to vote in favor of any merger agreement presented to Digital World shareholders for a vote.
Added
Digital World alleged that it presented a merger agreement to its shareholders, but ARC withheld its vote in favor of the merger in advance of the March 22, 2024 shareholder vote.
Added
Digital World’s suit requested that the court declare ARC’s obligation to vote its shares in favor of the merger, per the Letter Agreement, and an order compelling ARC to specifically perform its obligations under the Letter Agreement. Digital World also sought an award of consequential damages for breach of contract.
Added
On March 22, 2024, Digital World voluntarily discontinued its action without prejudice after ARC cast its vote in favor of the Business Combination at the Special Meeting.
Added
Lawsuit Against UAV, Litinksy, Moss, and Orlando in Florida On March 24, 2024, Private TMTG filed a lawsuit in the Circuit Court of the Twelfth Judicial Circuit for Sarasota County, Florida (Case No. 2024 CA 001545 NC) against UAV, Andrew Litinsky, Wesley Moss, and Patrick Orlando.
Added
In view of UAV’s repeated demands concerning its alleged stock ownership and director appointment rights, the complaint alleges claims for a declaratory judgment against UAV determining that the Services Agreement is unenforceable against Private TMTG. It also asserts a claim for unjust enrichment against UAV based on its failure to competently provide services to the company.
Added
Finally, it asserts claims for damages for (a) breach of the fiduciary duty of loyalty against Litinsky and Moss based on their dealings with Orlando, (b) aiding and abetting and conspiracy to breach fiduciary duty against Orlando based on the same events, and (c) breach of the fiduciary duty of care against Moss and Litinsky for their gross negligence in managing the company.

Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity

Market for Common Equity — stock, dividends, buybacks

3 edited+5 added9 removed0 unchanged
Biggest change(c) Dividends We have not paid any cash dividends on our common stock to date and do not intend to pay cash dividends prior to the completion of our initial business combination.
Biggest changeWe currently intend to retain all available funds and future earnings, if any, to fund the development and growth of the business, and therefore, do not anticipate declaring or paying any cash dividends on our Common Stock in the foreseeable future.
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities. (a) Market Information Our units, public shares and public warrants are each traded on The Nasdaq Global Market under the symbols DWACU, DWAC and DWACW, respectively.
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities (a) Market Information Our Common Stock and Public Warrants are each traded on The Nasdaq Global Market under the symbols DJT and DJTWW, respectively. Our Common Stock and Public Warrants commenced public trading on March 26, 2024.
(b) Holders On April 17, 2023, there were 9 holders of record of our units, 100 holders of record of shares of our Class A common stock 24 holders of record of shares of our Class B common stock and 28 holders of record of our warrants.
(b) Holders On March 28, 2024, there were 289 holders of record of shares of our Common Stock and 61 holders of record of our Public Warrants. (c) Dividends We have never declared or paid dividends on our capital stock.
Removed
Our units commenced public trading on September 3, 2021, and our public shares and public warrants commenced separate public trading on September 30, 2021.
Added
Any future determination related to our dividend policy will be made at the discretion of our Board after considering our business prospects, results of operations, financial condition, cash requirements and availability debt repayment obligations, capital expenditure needs, contractual restrictions, covenants in the agreements governing current and future indebtedness, industry trends, the provisions of Delaware law affecting the payment of dividends and distributions to stockholders and any other factors or considerations the Board deems relevant.
Removed
The payment of cash dividends in the future will be dependent upon our revenues and earnings, if any, capital requirements and general financial condition subsequent to completion of our initial business combination. The payment of any cash dividends subsequent to our initial business combination will be within the discretion of our board of directors at such time.
Added
(d) Performance Graph Not Applicable. (e) Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities During the covered period, Digital World issued $2,832,000 in non-interest-bearing convertible promissory notes, payable upon the stockholders’ approval of the Business Combination. The payment could be made in either (i) units or (ii) cash or units, at the holder's election.
Removed
In addition, our board of directors is not currently contemplating and does not anticipate declaring any stock dividends in the foreseeable future. Further, if we incur any indebtedness in connection with our initial business combination, our ability to declare dividends may be limited by restrictive covenants we may agree to in connection therewith.
Added
Any units issuable pursuant to the convertible promissory notes were to consist of one share of Digital World common stock and one-half of a warrant, with an exercise price ranging between $8 and $10.
Removed
(d) Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans None. (e) Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities None.
Added
Upon the consummation of the Business Combination, the number of shares of TMTG Common Stock issued to holders of such convertible promissory notes is equal to 303,200 and the number of private warrants issued is equal to 149,099. The convertible promissory notes were issued pursuant to the exemption from registration contained in Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act.
Removed
(f) Use of Proceeds from the Initial Public Offering For a description of the use of proceeds generated in our initial public offering and private placement, see Part II, Item 2 of our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2021, as filed with the SEC on November 22, 2021.
Added
Further information about additional unregistered sales of our equity securities in connection with the Business Combination is set forth under Items 2.01 and 3.02 of our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 1, 2024. (f) Recent Purchase of Unregistered Securities None. Item 6. [Reserved]
Removed
There has been no material change in the planned use of proceeds from our initial public offering and private placement as described in the Registration Statement.
Removed
(g) Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers On November 22, 2022, we held the Extension Meeting and our stockholders approved, among other things, an amendment to our amended and restated certificate of incorporation to extend the period of time for the Company to consummate an initial business combination up to four times, each by an additional three months, for an aggregate of 12 additional months (which is from September 8, 2022 up to September 8, 2023) or such earlier date as determined by the Board.
Removed
In connection with the Extension Meeting, stockholders holding 5,658 public shares exercised their right to redeem their shares for a pro rata portion of the funds in our trust account. As a result, approximately $58,916 (approximately $10.41 per share) was removed from the trust account to pay such holders.
Removed
Following redemptions, we have 28,745,952 public shares outstanding. 33 Table of Contents The following table contains monthly information about the repurchases of our equity securities for the three months ended December 31, 2022: Period (a) Total number of shares (or units) purchased (b) Average price paid per share (or unit) (c) Total number of shares (or units) purchased as part of publicly announced plans or programs (d) Maximum number (or approximate dollar value) of shares (or units) that may yet be purchased under the plans or programs October 1 – October 31, 2022 — — — — November 1 – November 30, 2022 5,658 $ 10.41 — — December 1 – December 31, 2022 — — — — Item 6. [Reserved]

Item 7. Management's Discussion & Analysis

Management's Discussion & Analysis (MD&A) — revenue / margin commentary

23 edited+15 added23 removed0 unchanged
Biggest changeFor the year ended December 31, 2022, we had a net loss of $15,221,263, which consists of formation and operating expenses of $18,499,257 and income taxes of $979,475, partially offset by income on the trust assets of $4,257,469. For the year ended December 31, 2021, we had a net loss of $1,391,593, which consists primarily of formation and operating expenses.
Biggest changeThe increase in income on the trust assets is due to the increase in interest rates. 75 Table of Contents For the year ended December 31, 2022, Digital World had a net loss of $15,642,548, which consists of formation and operating expenses of $8,916,023, legal investigations expense of $10,004,519 and income taxes of 979,475, partially offset by income on the trust assets of $4,257,469.
Derivative assets and liabilities are classified in the balance sheet as current or non-current based on whether or not net-cash settlement or conversion of the instrument could be required within 12 months of the balance sheet date. The Company accounts for the warrants in accordance with the guidance contained in ASC 815-40.
Derivative assets and liabilities are classified in the balance sheet as current or non-current based on whether or not net-cash settlement or conversion of the instrument could be required within 12 months of the balance sheet date. Digital World accounts for the Warrants in accordance with the guidance contained in ASC 815-40.
Conditionally redeemable common stock (including common stock that features redemption rights that is either within the control of the holder or subject to redemption upon the occurrence of uncertain events not solely within our control) is classified as temporary equity. At all other times, shares of common stock are classified as stockholders’ equity.
Conditionally redeemable common stock (including common stock that features Redemption Rights that is either within the control of the holder or subject to Redemption upon the occurrence of uncertain events not solely within Digital World's control) is classified as temporary equity. At all other times, shares of common stock are classified as stockholders’ equity.
At the election of the sponsor and subject to certain conditions, all of the unpaid principal amount of each of the two notes may be converted into units of the Company (the “Conversion Units”) immediately prior to the consummation of an initial business combination with the total Conversion Units so issued equal to: (x) the portion of the principal amount of the respective note being converted divided by (y) the conversion price of ten dollars ($10.00), rounded up to the nearest whole number of units.
At the election of the Sponsor and subject to certain conditions, all of the unpaid principal amount of each of the two notes may be converted into Units of Digital World (the “Conversion Units”) immediately prior to the consummation of the Business Combination with the total Conversion Units so issued equal to: (x) the portion of the principal amount of the respective note being converted divided by (y) the conversion price of ten dollars ($10.00), rounded up to the nearest whole number of Units.
Our shares of Class A common stock feature certain redemption rights that are considered to be outside of our control and subject to occurrence of uncertain future events. Accordingly, Class A common stock subject to possible redemption is presented as temporary equity, outside of the stockholders’ equity section of our condensed interim balance sheets.
Shares of Digital World Class A common stock feature certain Redemption Rights that are considered to be outside of Digital World's control and subject to occurrence of uncertain future events. Accordingly, Digital World Class A common stock subject to possible Redemption is presented as temporary equity, outside of the stockholders’ equity section of Digital World's condensed interim balance sheets.
Each of the two notes bears no interest and is repayable in full upon the earlier of (i) the date on which the Company consummates its initial business combination and (ii) the date that the winding up of the Company is effective.
Each of the two notes bears no interest and is repayable in full upon the earlier of (i) the date on which Digital World consummates its Business Combination and (ii) the date that the winding up of Digital World is effective.
On April 21, 2023, the Company issued two promissory notes (one for $625,700 and the other for $500,000) in the aggregate principal amount of $1,125,700 to the sponsor to pay costs and expenses in connection with completing an initial business combination.
On April 21, 2023, Digital World issued two promissory notes (one for $625,700 and the other for $500,000) in the aggregate principal amount of $1,125,700 to the Sponsor to pay costs and expenses in connection with completing the Business Combination.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates Class A Common Stock Subject to Possible Redemption We account for our Class A common stock subject to possible redemption in accordance with the guidance in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 480 “Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity.” Class A common stock subject to mandatory redemption is classified as a liability instrument and is measured at fair value.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates Digital World Class A Common Stock Subject to Possible Redemption Digital World accounted for Digital World Class A common stock subject to possible Redemption in accordance with the guidance in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 480 “Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity.” Digital World Class A common stock subject to mandatory Redemption is classified as a liability instrument and is measured at fair value.
Liquidity and Capital Resources Until the consummation of the initial public offering, our only source of liquidity was an initial purchase of Class B common stock by our sponsor and loans from our sponsor. On September 8, 2021, we consummated the initial public offering of 28,750,000 units, at a price of $10.00 per unit, generating gross proceeds of $287,500,000.
Liquidity and Capital Resources Until Digital World’s IPO, Digital World’s only source of liquidity was an initial purchase of Class B common stock by the Sponsor and loans from the Sponsor. On September 8, 2021, Digital World consummated the IPO of 28,750,000 Units, at a price of $10.00 per Unit, generating gross proceeds of $287,500,000.
We intend to effectuate our business combination using cash from the proceeds of our initial public offering and the sale of the placement units, our capital stock, debt or a combination of cash, stock and debt.
Digital World intended to effectuate its initial business combination using cash from the proceeds of its initial public offering and the sale of the Placement Units, our capital stock, debt or a combination of cash, stock and debt.
To the extent that our capital stock or debt is used, in whole or in part, as consideration to complete our initial business combination, the remaining proceeds held in the trust account will be used as working capital to finance the operations of the target business or businesses, make other acquisitions and pursue our growth strategies.
To the extent that Digital World capital stock or debt was used, in whole or in part, as consideration to complete the Business Combination, the remaining proceeds held in the Trust Account will be used as working capital to finance TMTG's business, make other acquisitions and pursue our growth strategies.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes thereto contained elsewhere in this Report.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. The following discussion and analysis of Digital World’s financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with Digital World’s financial statements and related notes that appear elsewhere in this Report.
We intend to use substantially all of the funds held in the trust account, including any amounts representing interest earned on the trust account to complete our initial business combination. We may withdraw interest to pay taxes.
Digital World intended to use substantially all of the funds held in the Trust Account, including any amounts representing interest earned on the Trust Account, to complete its initial business combination and to withdraw cash to pay taxes.
Simultaneously with the closing of the initial public offering, we consummated the sale of 1,133,484 placement units at a price of $10.00 per placement unit in a private placement to our sponsor, generating gross proceeds of $11,334,840.
Simultaneously with the closing of the IPO, Digital World consummated the sale of 1,133,484 Placement Units at a price of $10.00 per Placement Unit in a Private Placement to our Sponsor, generating gross proceeds of $11,334,840. Following the IPO and the sale of the Placement Units, a total of $293,250,000 was placed in the Trust Account.
We incur expenses as a result of being a public company (for legal, financial reporting, accounting and auditing compliance), as well as for due diligence in connection with our search for targets for our initial business combination.
Digital World generated non-operating income in the form of interest income on marketable securities held. Digital World incurred expenses as a result of being a public company (for legal, financial reporting, accounting and auditing compliance), as well as for due diligence in connection with its search for targets for its initial business combination.
The Company has determined that the warrants qualify for equity treatment in the Company’s financial statements. 37 Table of Contents
Digital World has determined that the Warrants qualify for equity treatment in Digital World’s financial statements.
Overview We are a blank check company formed under the laws of the State of Delaware on December 11, 2020, for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or other similar business combination with one or more businesses.
Unless otherwise indicated or the context otherwise requires, references in this section to “we,” “our,” “us” and other similar terms refer to Digital World before the Business Combination. 74 Table of Contents Overview Digital World was formed as a blank check company under the laws of the State of Delaware on December 11, 2020 for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or other similar initial business combination with one or more businesses.
Derivative Financial Instruments The Company evaluates its financial instruments to determine if such instruments are derivatives or contain features that qualify as embedded derivatives in accordance with ASC Topic 815, “Derivatives and Hedging”.
Derivative Financial Instruments Digital World evaluated its financial instruments to determine if such instruments are derivatives or contain features that qualify as embedded derivatives in accordance with ASC Topic 815, “Derivatives and Hedging.” Derivative instruments are initially recorded at fair value on the grant date and re-valued at each reporting date, with changes in the fair value reported in the statements of operations.
Following the initial public offering and the sale of the placement units, a total of $293,250,000 was placed in a U.S.-based trust account, maintained by Continental, acting as trustee. We incurred $15,668,029 in transaction costs, including $3,593,750 of underwriting fees, $10,062,500 of deferred underwriting fees, fair value of representative shares of $1,437,500 and $574,279 of other offering costs.
Digital World incurred $15,668,029 in transaction costs, including $3,593,750 of underwriting fees, $10,062,500 of deferred underwriting fees, fair value of representative shares of $1,437,500 and $574,279 of other offering costs.
Results of Operations We have neither engaged in any operations nor generated any revenues to date. Our only activities from inception through December 31, 2022 were organizational activities and those necessary to prepare for the initial public offering and the search for targets for our initial business combination, including the proposed Merger with TMTG.
Its activities from inception through December 31, 2023 were organizational activities and those necessary to prepare for Digital World’s IPO and the search for targets for the Business Combination, including the Merger with TMTG. Digital World did not expect to generate any operating revenues until after the completion of the Business Combination.
For the year ended December 31, 2022, cash used in operating activities was $1,378,277, which was primarily comprised of a net loss of $15,221,263 and income on the trust assets of $4,257,469, partially offset by a net change in operating liabilities of $8,100,455.
For the year ended December 31, 2022, cash used in operating activities was $1,455,883, which was primarily comprised of a net loss of $19,900,017 (excluding cash interest earned on the Trust Account), partially offset by a net increase in operating liabilities of $18,444,134. As of December 31, 2023, Digital World had cash of $310,623,083 held in the Trust Account.
The issuances of the two notes were made pursuant to the exemption from registration contained in Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act. As of December 31, 2022, we had cash of $989 outside of the trust account.
The issuances of the two notes were made pursuant to the exemption from registration contained in Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act. On June 2, 2023, Digital World issued two convertible notes to Renatus in the aggregate principal amounts of (a) $2,000,000 and (b) $10,000,000.
For the year ended December 31, 2021, cash used in operating activities was $1,114,081 and was primarily comprised of a net loss of $1,391,593. As of December 31, 2022, we had cash of $300,330,651 held in the trust account.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, cash used in operating activities was $5,135,588, which was primarily comprised of a net loss of $35,722,601 (excluding cash interest earned on the Trust Account), partially offset by a net increase in operating liabilities of $30,587,013.
Removed
Certain information contained in the discussion and analysis set forth below includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties.
Added
In addition to historical information, this discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those made, projected or implied in the forward-looking statements.
Removed
Recent Development On October 20, 2021, we entered into a Merger Agreement with Merger Sub, TMTG, our sponsor, in the capacity as our representative for certain stockholders, and TMTG’s Chief Legal Officer, in the capacity as the representative for stockholders of TMTG.
Added
Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed below and elsewhere, particularly in the “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” sections of this Report.
Removed
Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, subject to the terms and conditions set forth therein, (i) upon the Closing, Merger Sub will merge with and into TMTG, with TMTG continuing as the surviving corporation in the Merger and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company.
Added
Recent Development In February 2024, Digital World issued Digital World Convertible Notes to certain accredited investors in the aggregate principal amount of up to $770,000. The proceeds of the promissory notes are expected to be used to pay costs and expenses in connection with completing the Business Combination.
Removed
In the Merger, (i) all shares of TMTG Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (other than those properly exercising any applicable dissenters rights under Delaware law) will be converted into the right to receive the Merger consideration; (ii) each outstanding option to acquire shares of TMTG Stock (whether vested or unvested) will be assumed by the Company and automatically converted into an option to acquire shares of the Company’s common stock, with its price and number of shares equitably adjusted based on the conversion ratio of the shares of TMTG Stock into the Merger consideration and (iii) each outstanding restricted stock unit of TMTG shall be converted into a restricted stock unit relating to shares of the Company’s common stock.
Added
Of such Digital World Convertible Notes (i) $620,000 have a conversion price of $10.00 per Working Capital Unit and (ii) $150,000 have a conversion price of $8.00 per Working Capital Unit. The issuances were made pursuant to the exemption from registration contained in Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act.
Removed
At the Closing, the Company will change its name to “Trump Media & Technology Group Corp.” Consummation of the TMTG Business Combination is subject to customary conditions of the respective parties, including regulatory approval and the approval of the Merger by our stockholders in accordance with our 34 Table of Contents amended and restated certificate of incorporation and the completion of a redemption offer whereby we will be providing our public stockholders with the opportunity to redeem their shares of our Class A common stock for cash equal to their pro rata share of the aggregate amount on deposit in our trust account.
Added
On February 7, 2024, Digital World entered into warrant subscription agreements with certain institutional investors for the issuance of the Digital World Alternative Warrants in settlement of the terminated PIPE Investment. Each such warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one share of Digital World Class A common stock for $11.50 per share.
Removed
The Merger Agreement can be terminated by either party if any of the closing conditions have not been satisfied or waived by September 20, 2022, which has been extended to June 8, 2023 (the “Outside Date”), provided that the Company shall have the right to extend the Outside Date if it obtains an extension of the deadline by which it must complete its business combination (an “Extension”) for the shortest of (i) three months, (ii) the period ending on the last day for the Company to consummate a business combination after such Extension and (iii) such period as determined by the Company.
Added
Digital World issued the Digital World Alternative Warrants concurrently with the closing of the Business Combination, and such warrants had substantially the same terms as the Public Warrants issued by Digital World in connection with its IPO, except that such Digital World Alternative Warrants may only be transferred to the applicable holder’s.
Removed
On December 4, 2021, in support of the TMTG Business Combination, the Company entered into certain SPAs with certain PIPE Investors, pursuant to which the PIPE Investors agreed to purchase up to an aggregate of 1,000,000 shares of the Company’s Series A Convertible Preferred Stock for a purchase price of $1,000 per share for an aggregate commitment of up to $1,000,000,000 in a PIPE to be consummated concurrently with the TMTG Business Combination.
Added
On February 8, 2024, Digital World entered into a subscription agreement with certain institutional investors for the issuance of the Digital World Alternative Financing Notes, issuing $10,000,000 in Digital World Alternative Financing Notes to such institutional investors.
Removed
The shares are currently convertible into 29,761,905 shares of the Company’s common stock, subject to upward adjustment. The PIPE is conditioned on the concurrent closing of the TMTG Business Combination and other customary closing conditions and is terminable by the PIPE Investors if the TMTG Business Combination has not closed by the Outside Date.
Added
Digital World issued the remaining up to $40,000,000 of such Digital World Alternative Financing Notes concurrently with the Closing of the Business Combination on March 25, 2024.
Removed
Pursuant to the SPA, each of the PIPE Investors may terminate its respective SPA, among other things, if the closing of the PIPE has not occurred on or prior to September 20, 2022.
Added
The Digital World Alternative Financing Notes: (a) are initially drawable for 20% of the applicable investor’s commitment amount and a final drawdown for the remaining 80% to occur upon the closing of the Business Combination, with the proceeds of such final drawdown to be deposited into a control account as indicated by Digital World (the “Control Account”).
Removed
As a result, the Company received termination notices from certain PIPE Investors, who originally agreed to purchase up to 251,500 shares of the Company’s Series A Convertible Preferred Stock. For more information on the TMTG Business Combination and the PIPE Investment, see “Item 1.
Added
The proceeds from such final drawdown deposited into the Control Account shall remain therein and may not be withdrawn by Digital World until such time as (i) Digital World exercises the Alternative Notes Redemption Right using the proceeds in the Control Account, (ii) any portion of the applicable Digital World Alternative Financing Note has been converted, at which time such portion shall be released from the Control Account or (iii) if prior to the conversion, a resale registration statement of Digital World covering all common stock issued pursuant to the Digital World Alternative Financing Notes has been declared effective by the SEC; (b) are subject to specified events of default; and (c) have registration rights pursuant to the registration rights agreement entered into by Digital World and the parties thereto as of September 2, 2021.
Removed
Business.” As indicated in the accompanying financial statements, on December 31, 2022, we had approximately $989 in cash. We have incurred and continue to incur significant costs in the pursuit of our initial business combination. We cannot assure shareholders that our plans to complete our initial business combination will be successful.
Added
As of December 31, 2023, Digital World had approximately $395,011 in cash. Digital World incurred significant costs in the pursuit of the Business Combination. On March 25, 2024 the Business Combination was consummated. Results of Operations Digital World neither engaged in any operations nor generated any revenues through the Closing Date.
Removed
We do not expect to generate any operating revenues until after the completion of our initial business combination. We generate non-operating income in the form of interest income on marketable securities held.
Added
For the year ended December 31, 2023, Digital World had a net loss of $21,890,641, which consists primarily of formation and operating expenses of $12,523,232, legal investigations expense of $19,671,581 and income taxes of $3,548,603, partially offset by income on the trust assets of $13,852,774.
Removed
Factors That May Adversely Affect Our Results of Operations Our results of operations and our ability to complete an initial business combination may be adversely affected by various factors that could cause economic uncertainty and volatility in the financial markets, many of which are beyond our control.
Added
The increase in legal investigations expense is primarily due to the $18.0 million settlement with SEC.
Removed
Our business could be impacted by, among other things, the pending legal proceedings against us, downturns in the financial markets or in economic conditions, increases in oil prices, inflation, increases in interest rates, supply chain disruptions, declines in consumer confidence and spending, the 35 Table of Contents ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, including resurgences and the emergence of new variants, and geopolitical instability, such as the military conflict in the Ukraine.
Added
The proceeds of the Notes were used to pay costs and expenses in connection with completing an initial business combination. Mr. Swider, a current director of TMTG, is a founder and partner of Renatus. 76 Table of Contents Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements Digital World did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements as of December 31, 2023.
Removed
We cannot at this time fully predict the likelihood of one or more of the above events, their duration or magnitude or the extent to which they may negatively impact our business and our ability to complete an initial business combination.
Added
Contractual Obligations Digital World did not have any long-term debt, capital lease obligations, operating lease obligations or long-term liabilities as of December 31, 2023.
Removed
We intend to use the funds held outside the trust account primarily to complete the TMTG Business Combination, or if the TMTG Business is not consummated, identify and evaluate target businesses, perform business due diligence on prospective target businesses, travel to and from the offices, plants or similar locations of prospective target businesses or their representatives or owners, review corporate documents and material agreements of prospective target businesses, and structure, negotiate and complete a business combination. 36 Table of Contents In connection with the Company’s assessment of going concern considerations in accordance with Financial Accounting Standard Board’s Account Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-15, “Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern” as stated above, the Company has until June 8, 2023 (or up to September 8, 2023 if the Company extends the maximum time to complete a Business Combination) to consummate a Business Combination.
Removed
It is uncertain that the Company will be able to consummate a Business Combination by this time. If a Business Combination is not consummated by this date, there will be a mandatory liquidation and subsequent dissolution of the Company. Additionally, the Company has incurred and expects to incur significant costs in pursuit of its acquisition plans.
Removed
The Company lacks the financial resources it needs to sustain operations for a reasonable period of time, which is considered to be one year from the date of the issuance of the financial statements. As a result, these factors raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.
Removed
The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of these uncertainties. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements We did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements as of December 31, 2022.
Removed
Contractual Obligations We do not have any long-term debt, capital lease obligations, operating lease obligations or long-term liabilities, other than an agreement to pay the Working Capital Loans, and each of Renatus and an affiliate of our sponsor a monthly fee of $15,000 for office space, administrative and support services to us.
Removed
We will incur these fees monthly until the earlier of the completion of our initial business combination and our liquidation. The underwriters are entitled to a deferred fee of $0.35 per unit, or $10,062,500 in the aggregate.
Removed
The deferred fee will become payable to the underwriters solely in the event that the Company completes a business combination, subject to the terms of the underwriting agreement.
Removed
Derivative instruments are initially recorded at fair value on the grant date and re-valued at each reporting date, with changes in the fair value reported in the statements of operations.

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