Item 1A. Risk Factors Investing in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. You should consider carefully the risks, uncertainties and other factors described below, in addition to the other information set forth in this Form 10-K, before making an investment decision. Any of these risks, uncertainties and other factors could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or prospects. In that case, the market price of our common stock could decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment in our common stock. See also Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements. 17 Risks Related to Upexi Upexi does not anticipate paying any dividends on its common stock. No dividends have been paid on Upexis common stock. Upexi does not intend to pay cash dividends on its common stock in the foreseeable future, and anticipate that profits, if any, received from operations will be reinvested into its business. Any decision to pay dividends will depend upon its financial condition, operating results, and current and anticipated cash needs. You may experience additional dilution in the future. To raise additional capital, Upexi may in the future offer additional securities, including shares of its Common Stock, at prices that may not be the same as the price per share in this offering. Upexi may sell shares or other securities in any other offering at a price per share that is less than the price per share paid by investors in this offering, and investors purchasing shares or other securities in the future could have rights superior to existing stockholders. The price per share at which Upexi sells additional shares of common stock, or securities convertible or exchangeable into common stock, in future transactions may be higher or lower than the price per share paid by investors in prior offerings. Furthermore, sales of a substantial number of shares of Upexis common stock in the public markets, or the perception that such sales could occur, could depress the market price of Upexis common stock. To raise additional capital, Upexi may in the future offer additional securities, including shares of its common stock, at prices that may not be the same as the price per share in this offering. Upexi may sell shares or other securities in any other offering at a price per share that is less than the price per share paid by investors in this offering, and investors purchasing shares or other securities in the future could have rights superior to existing stockholders. The price per share at which Upexi sells additional shares of common stock, or securities convertible or exchangeable into common stock, in future transactions may be higher or lower than the price per share paid by investors in prior offerings. Furthermore, sales of a substantial number of shares of Upexis common stock in the public markets, or the perception that such sales could occur, could depress the market price of Upexis common stock. Shares eligible for future sale may adversely affect the market. From time to time, certain of Upexis stockholders may be eligible to sell all or some of their shares of common stock by means of ordinary brokerage transactions in the open market pursuant to Rule 144, promulgated under the Securities Act, subject to certain limitations. In general, pursuant to recent amendments to Rule 144, a non-affiliate stockholder who has satisfied a six-month holding period may, under certain circumstances, sell its shares, without limitation. Any substantial sale of Upexis common stock pursuant to Rule 144 or pursuant to any resale (including sales by investors of securities purchased in prior offerings) may have a material adverse effect on the market price of the common stock. 15 Our limited operating history makes it difficult for potential investors to evaluate our business prospects and management. The Company was incorporated on September 5, 2018, and only commenced operations thereafter. Accordingly, we have a limited operating history upon which to base an evaluation of our business and prospects. Operating results for future periods are subject to numerous uncertainties, and we cannot assure you that the Company will achieve or sustain profitability in the future. The Companys prospects must be considered in light of the risks encountered by companies in the early stage of development, particularly companies in new and rapidly evolving markets. Future operating results will depend upon many factors, including our success in attracting and retaining motivated and qualified personnel, our ability to establish short term credit lines or obtain financing from other sources, our ability to develop and market new products, our ability to control costs, and general economic conditions. We cannot assure you that the Company will successfully address any of these risks. There can be no assurance that our efforts will be successful or that we will ultimately be able to attain profitability. 18 The Company was incorporated on September 5, 2018, and only commenced operations thereafter. Moreover, the Company only shifted to a digital asset treasury strategy, our principal business, in April 2025. Accordingly, we have a limited operating history upon which to base an evaluation of our business and prospects. Operating results for future periods are subject to numerous uncertainties, and we cannot assure you that the Company will achieve or sustain profitability in the future. The Companys prospects must be considered in light of the risks encountered by companies in the early stage of development, particularly companies in new and rapidly evolving markets. Future operating results will depend upon many factors, including our success in attracting and retaining motivated and qualified personnel, our ability to establish short-term credit lines or obtain financing from other sources, our ability to develop and market new products, our ability to control costs, and general economic conditions. We cannot assure you that the Company will successfully address any of these risks. There can be no assurance that our efforts will be successful or that we will ultimately be able to attain profitability. If we are unable to protect our intellectual property rights, our competitive position could be harmed. Our commercial success will depend in part on our ability to obtain and maintain appropriate intellectual property protection in the United States and foreign countries with respect to our proprietary formulations and products. Our ability to successfully implement our business plan depends on our ability to build and maintain brand recognition using trademarks, service marks, trade dress and other intellectual property. We may rely on trade secrets, trademark, patent and copyright laws, and confidentiality and other agreements with employees and third parties, all of which offer only limited protection. The steps we have taken and the steps we will take to protect our proprietary rights may not be adequate to preclude misappropriation of our proprietary information or infringement of our intellectual property rights. If our efforts to protect our intellectual property are unsuccessful or inadequate, or if any third party misappropriates or infringes on our intellectual property, the value of our brands may be harmed, which could have a material adverse effect on the Companys business and prevent our brands from achieving or maintaining market acceptance. Protecting against unauthorized use of our trademarks and other intellectual property rights may be expensive, difficult and in some cases not possible. In some cases, it may be difficult or impossible to detect third-party infringement or misappropriation of our intellectual property rights and proving any such infringement may be even more difficult. We may not be able to effectively manage growth. As we continue to grow our business and develop products, we expect to need additional research, development, managerial, operational, sales, marketing, financial, accounting, legal and other resources. The Company expects its growth to place a substantial strain on its managerial, operational and financial resources. The Company cannot assure that it will be able to effectively manage the expansion of its operations, or that its facilities, systems, procedures or controls will be adequate to support its operations. The Companys inability to manage future growth effectively would have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition and results of operations. As we continue to grow our business and develop products, we expect to need additional research, development, managerial, operational, sales, marketing, financial, accounting, legal and other resources. The Company expects its growth to place a substantial strain on its managerial, operational, and financial resources. The Company cannot assure that it will be able to effectively manage the expansion of its operations, or that its facilities, systems, procedures, or controls will be adequate to support its operations. The Companys inability to manage future growth effectively would have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition, and results of operations. Our management may not be able to control costs in an effective or timely manner. The Companys management has made reasonable efforts to assess, predict and control costs and expenses. However, the Company only has a brief operating history upon which to base those efforts. Implementing our business plan may require more employees, capital equipment, supplies or other expenditure items than management has predicted. Likewise, the cost of compensating employees and consultants or other operating costs may be higher than managements estimates, which could lead to sustained losses. The Companys management has made reasonable efforts to assess, predict, and control costs and expenses. However, the Company only has a brief operating history upon which to base those efforts. Implementing our business plan may require more employees, capital equipment, supplies or other expenditure items than management has predicted. Likewise, the cost of compensating employees and consultants or other operating costs may be higher than managements estimates, which could lead to sustained losses. 16 We expect our quarterly financial results to fluctuate. We expect our net sales and operating results to vary significantly from quarter to quarter due to a number of factors, including changes in: Demand for our products; Our ability to obtain and retain existing customers or encourage repeat purchases; Our ability to manage our product inventory; General economic conditions, both domestically and in foreign markets; Advertising and other marketing costs; and Costs of creating and expanding product lines. As a result of the variability of these and other factors, our operating results in future quarters may be below the expectations of our stockholders. We are subject to the reporting requirements of U.S. federal securities laws, which can be expensive. We are subject to the information and reporting requirements of the Exchange Act and other federal securities laws, including compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The costs of preparing and filing annual and quarterly reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC and furnishing audited consolidated financial statements to stockholders will cause our expenses to be higher than they would have if we had remained privately held. In addition, it may be time-consuming, difficult and costly for us to develop and implement the corporate governance requirements, internal controls and reporting procedures required by the federal securities laws. This may divert managements attention from other business concerns, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. We may need to hire additional financial reporting, internal controls and other finance personnel in order to develop and implement appropriate internal controls and reporting procedures. 19 We are subject to the information and reporting requirements of the Exchange Act and other federal securities laws, including compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The costs of preparing and filing annual and quarterly reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC and furnishing audited consolidated financial statements to stockholders will cause our expenses to be higher than they would have if we had remained privately held. In addition, it may be time-consuming, difficult, and costly for us to develop and implement the corporate governance requirements, internal controls and reporting procedures required by the federal securities laws. This may divert managements attention from other business concerns, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. We may need to hire additional financial reporting, internal controls, and other finance personnel in order to develop and implement appropriate internal controls and reporting procedures. Cybersecurity breaches of our IT systems could degrade our ability to conduct our business operations and deliver products and services to our customers, delay our ability to recognize revenue, compromise the integrity of our software products, result in significant data losses and the theft of our intellectual property, damage our reputation, expose us to liability to third parties and require us to incur significant additional costs to maintain the security of our networks and data. We increasingly depend upon our IT systems to conduct virtually all of our business operations, ranging from our internal operations and product development activities to our marketing and sales efforts and communications with our customers and business partners. Computer programmers may attempt to penetrate our network security, or that of our website, and misappropriate our proprietary information or cause interruptions of our service. Because the techniques used by such computer programmers to access or sabotage networks change frequently and may not be recognized until launched against a target, we may be unable to anticipate these techniques. In addition, sophisticated hardware and operating system software and applications that we produce or procure from third parties may contain defects in design or manufacture, including bugs and other problems that could unexpectedly interfere with the operation of the system. We have also outsourced a number of our business functions to third-party contractors, including our manufacturers and logistics providers, and our business operations also depend, in part, on the success of our contractors own cybersecurity measures. Similarly, we rely upon distributors, resellers and system integrators to sell our products and our sales operations depend, in part, on the reliability of their cybersecurity measures. Additionally, we depend upon our employees to appropriately handle confidential data and deploy our IT resources in a safe and secure fashion that does not expose our network systems to security breaches and the loss of data. Accordingly, if our cybersecurity systems and those of our contractors fail to protect against unauthorized access, sophisticated cyberattacks and the mishandling of data by our employees and contractors, our ability to conduct our business effectively could be damaged in a number of ways. We increasingly depend upon our IT systems to conduct virtually all of our business operations, ranging from our internal operations and product development activities to our marketing and sales efforts and communications with our customers and business partners. Computer programmers may attempt to penetrate our network security, or that of our website, and misappropriate our proprietary information or cause interruptions of our service. Because the techniques used by such computer programmers to access or sabotage networks change frequently and may not be recognized until launched against a target, we may be unable to anticipate these techniques. In addition, sophisticated hardware and operating system software and applications that we produce or procure from third parties may contain defects in design or manufacture, including bugs and other problems that could unexpectedly interfere with the operation of the system. We have also outsourced a number of our business functions to third-party contractors, including our manufacturers and logistics providers, and our business operations also depend, in part, on the success of our contractors own cybersecurity measures. Similarly, we rely upon distributors, resellers, and system integrators to sell our products and our sales operations depend, in part, on the reliability of their cybersecurity measures. Additionally, we depend upon our employees to appropriately handle confidential data and deploy our IT resources in a safe and secure fashion that does not expose our network systems to security breaches and the loss of data. Accordingly, if our cybersecurity systems and those of our contractors fail to protect against unauthorized access, sophisticated cyberattacks and the mishandling of data by our employees and contractors, our ability to conduct our business effectively could be damaged in a number of ways. We may incur significant costs and require significant management resources to evaluate our internal control over financial reporting as required under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, and any failure to comply or any adverse result from such evaluation may have an adverse effect on our stock price. As a smaller reporting company, as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act, we will be required to evaluate our internal control over financial reporting under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Section 404) and to include an internal control report. This report must include managements assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of the end of the fiscal year. This report must also include disclosure of any material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting that we have identified. Failure to comply, or any adverse results from such an evaluation could result in a loss of investor confidence in our financial reports and have an adverse effect on the trading price of our equity securities. Increases in costs, disruption of supply or shortage of raw materials could harm our business. We may experience increases in the cost or a sustained interruption in the supply or shortage of raw materials. Any such increase or supply interruption could materially negatively impact our business, prospects, financial condition and operating results. We use various raw materials in our business including industrial hemp, pecmate, pectin and other raw materials used in the product manufacturing process. The prices for these raw materials fluctuate depending on market conditions and global demand for these materials and could adversely affect our business and operating results. Substantial increases in the prices for our raw materials increase our operating costs and could reduce our margins if we cannot recoup the increased costs through increased prices for our products. Our failure to meet the continuing listing requirements of the NASDAQ Capital Market could result in a de-listing of our securities. If we fail to satisfy the continuing listing requirements of NASDAQ, such as the corporate governance, stockholders equity or minimum closing bid price requirements, NASDAQ may take steps to delist our Common Stock. Such a delisting would likely have a negative effect on the price of our Common Stock and would impair your ability to sell or purchase our Common Stock when you wish to do so. In the event of a delisting, we would likely take actions to restore our compliance with NASDAQs listing requirements, but we can provide no assurance that any such action taken by us would allow our Common Stock to become listed again, stabilize the market price or improve the liquidity of our securities, prevent our Common Stock from dropping below the NASDAQ minimum bid price requirement or prevent future non-compliance with NASDAQs listing requirements. 20 17 Our failure to meet the continuing listing requirements of the NASDAQ Capital Market could result in a delisting of our securities. If we fail to satisfy the continuing listing requirements of NASDAQ, such as the corporate governance, stockholders equity or minimum closing bid price requirements, NASDAQ may take steps to delist our common stock. Such a delisting would likely have a negative effect on the price of our common stock and would impair your ability to sell or purchase our common stock when you wish to do so. In the event of a delisting, we would likely take actions to restore our compliance with NASDAQs listing requirements, but we can provide no assurance that any such action taken by us would allow our common stock to become listed again, stabilize the market price or improve the liquidity of our securities, prevent our common stock from dropping below the NASDAQ minimum bid price requirement or prevent future non-compliance with NASDAQs listing requirements. Although we do not currently satisfy the stockholders' equity requirement of Rule 5550(b)(1), we believe we are in compliance with Nasdaq's continued listing requirements because we satisfy the alternative Market Value of Listed Securities Standard set forth in Rule 5550(b)(2), which requires a minimum market value of listed securities of at least $35,000,000. As of September 8, 2026, the market value of our listed securities was approximately $85.0 million. A company listed on The Nasdaq Capital Market must meet at least one of the three standards set forth in Rule 5550(b) - the Equity Standard, the Market Value of Listed Securities Standard, or the Net Income Standard - in addition to the other continued listing requirements under Rule 5550(a). We will incur increased costs and demands upon management as a result of complying with the laws and regulations affecting public companies, which could adversely affect our operating results. As a public company, we will incur significant legal, accounting and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company, including costs associated with public company reporting and corporate governance requirements. These requirements include compliance with Section 404 and other provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, as well as rules implemented by the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, and the NASDAQ. In addition, our management team will also have to adapt to the requirements of being a public company. We expect complying with these rules and regulations will substantially increase our legal and financial compliance costs and make some activities more time-consuming and costly. The increased costs associated with operating as a public company will decrease our net income or increase our net loss and may require us to reduce costs in other areas of our business or increase the prices of our products. Additionally, if these requirements divert our managements attention from other business concerns, they could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results. As a public company, we will incur significant legal, accounting, and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company, including costs associated with public company reporting and corporate governance requirements. These requirements include compliance with Section 404 and other provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, as well as rules implemented by the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, and the NASDAQ. In addition, our management team will also have to adapt to the requirements of being a public company. We expect complying with these rules and regulations will substantially increase our legal and financial compliance costs and make some activities more time-consuming and costly. The increased costs associated with operating as a public company will decrease our net income or increase our net loss and may require us to reduce costs in other areas of our business or increase the prices of our products. Additionally, if these requirements divert our managements attention from other business concerns, they could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results. As a public company, we also expect that it may be more difficult and more expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance, and we may be required to accept reduced policy limits and coverage or incur substantially higher costs to obtain the same or similar coverage. As a result, it may be more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified individuals to serve on our board of directors or as our executive officers. We are eligible to be treated as an emerging growth company, as defined in the JOBS Act, and a smaller reporting company within the meaning of the Securities Act, and we cannot be certain if the reduced disclosure requirements applicable to emerging growth companies or smaller reporting companies will make our Common Stock less attractive to investors. We are an emerging growth company, as defined in the JOBS Act. For as long as we continue to be an emerging growth company, we may take advantage of exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not emerging growth companies, including (1) not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, (2) reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in this annual report and our periodic reports and proxy statements and (3) exemptions from the requirements of holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation and stockholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. In addition, as an emerging growth company, we are only required to provide two years of audited consolidated financial statements in this annual report. We could be an emerging growth company for up to five years, although circumstances could cause us to lose that status earlier, including if the market value of our Common Stock held by non-affiliates exceeds $700.0 million as of any December 31 before that time or if we have total annual gross revenue of $1.0 billion or more during any fiscal year before that time, after which, in each case, we would no longer be an emerging growth company as of the following December 31 or, if we issue more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt during any three-year period before that time, we would cease to be an emerging growth company immediately. Additionally, we are a smaller reporting company as defined in Item 10(f)(1) of Regulation S-K. Smaller reporting companies may take advantage of certain reduced disclosure obligations, including, among other things, providing only two years of audited consolidated financial statements. We will remain a smaller reporting company until the last day of the fiscal year in which (1) the market value of our shares of Common Stock held by non-affiliates exceeds $250 million as of the prior the end of our second fiscal quarter ending December 31 of each year, or (2) our annual revenues exceeded $100 million during such completed fiscal year and the market value of our ordinary shares held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the prior to the end of our second fiscal quarter ending December 31 of each year. To the extent we take advantage of such reduced disclosure obligations, it may also make comparison of our consolidated financial statements with other public companies difficult or impossible. After we are no longer an emerging growth company, we expect to incur additional management time and cost to comply with the more stringent reporting requirements applicable to companies that are deemed accelerated filers or large accelerated filers, including complying with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. We cannot predict or estimate the amount of additional costs we may incur or the timing of such costs. 21 We are eligible to be treated as a smaller reporting company within the meaning of the Securities Act, and we cannot be certain if the reduced disclosure requirements applicable to smaller reporting companies will make our common stock less attractive to investors. We are a smaller reporting company as defined in Item 10(f)(1) of Regulation S-K. Smaller reporting companies may take advantage of certain reduced disclosure obligations, including, among other things, providing only two years of audited consolidated financial statements. We will remain a smaller reporting company until the last day of the fiscal year in which (1) the market value of our shares of common stock held by non-affiliates exceeds $250 million as of the prior the end of our second fiscal quarter ending December 31 of each year, or (2) our annual revenues exceeded $100 million during such completed fiscal year and the market value of our ordinary shares held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the prior to the end of our second fiscal quarter ending December 31 of each year. To the extent we take advantage of such reduced disclosure obligations, it may also make comparison of our consolidated financial statements with other public companies difficult or impossible. After we are no longer an smaller reporting company, we expect to incur additional management time and cost to comply with the more stringent reporting requirements applicable to companies that are deemed accelerated filers or large accelerated filers, including complying with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. We cannot predict or estimate the amount of additional costs we may incur or the timing of such costs. 18 Risks Relating to Our Business and Industry We operate in a highly competitive environment, and if we are unable to compete with our competitors, our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and prospects could be materially adversely affected. We operate in a highly competitive environment. Our competition includes all other companies that are in the business of producing or distributing hemp-based products for personal use or consumption. Many of our competitors have greater resources that may enable them to compete more effectively than us in the CBD industry. Some of our competitors have a longer operating history and greater capital resources, facilities and product line diversity, which may enable them to compete more effectively in this market. Our competitors may devote their resources to developing and marketing products that will directly compete with our product lines. The Company expects to face additional competition from existing competitors and new market entrants. If a significant number of new entrants enter the market in the near term, the Company may experience increased competition for market share and may experience downward pricing pressure on the Companys products as new entrants increase production. Such competition may cause us to encounter difficulties in generating revenues and market share, and in positioning our products in the market. If we are unable to successfully compete with existing companies and new entrants to the market, our lack of competitive advantage will have a negative impact on our business and financial condition. We operate in a highly competitive environment. Our competition includes all other companies that are in the business of producing or distributing hemp-based products for personal use or consumption. Many of our competitors have greater resources that may enable them to compete more effectively than us in the CBD industry. Some of our competitors have a longer operating history and greater capital resources, facilities, and product line diversity, which may enable them to compete more effectively in this market. Our competitors may devote their resources to developing and marketing products that will directly compete with our product lines. The Company expects to face additional competition from existing competitors and new market entrants. If a significant number of new entrants enter the market in the near term, the Company may experience increased competition for market share and may experience downward pricing pressure on the Companys products as new entrants increase production. Such competition may cause us to encounter difficulties in generating revenues and market share, and in positioning our products in the market. If we are unable to successfully compete with existing companies and new entrants to the market, our lack of competitive advantage will have a negative impact on our business and financial condition. Unfavorable publicity or consumer perception of our products or similar products developed and distributed by other companies could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, which could result in decreased sales and fluctuations in our business, financial condition and results of operations. We depend on consumer perception regarding the safety and quality of our products, as well as similar products marketed and distributed by other companies. Consumer perception of hemp-based products can be significantly influenced by adverse publicity in the form of published scientific research, national media attention or other publicity, which may associate consumption of our products or other similar products with adverse effects or question the benefits and/or effectiveness of our products or similar products. A new product may initially be received favorably, resulting in high sales of that product, but that level of sales may not be sustainable as consumer preferences change over time. Future scientific research or publicity could be unfavorable to our industry or any of our particular products and may not be consistent with earlier favorable research or publicity. Unfavorable research or publicity could have a material adverse effect on our ability to generate sales. Our failure to appropriately and timely respond to changing consumer preferences and demand for new products could significantly harm our customer relationships and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Our business is subject to changing consumer trends and preferences. Our failure to accurately predict or react to these trends could negatively impact on consumer opinion of us as a source for the latest products, which in turn could harm our customer relationships and cause us to lose market share. The success of our product offerings depends upon a number of factors, including our ability to: Anticipate customer needs; Innovate and develop new products; Successfully introduce new products in a timely manner; Price our products competitively with retail and online competitors; Deliver our products in sufficient volumes and in a timely manner; and Differentiate our product offerings from those of our competitors. If we do not introduce new products or make enhancements to meet the changing needs of our customers in a timely manner, some of our products could be rendered obsolete, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 22 19 Future acquisitions or strategic investments and partnerships could be difficult to identify and integrate with our business, disrupt our business, and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. We may seek to acquire or invest in businesses and product lines that we believe could complement or expand our product offerings or otherwise offer growth opportunities. The pursuit of potential acquisitions may divert the attention of management and cause us to incur various expenses in identifying, investigating, and pursuing suitable acquisitions, whether or not the acquisitions are completed. Future acquisitions could also result in dilutive issuances of equity securities or the incurrence of debt, which could adversely affect our financial position and results of operations. In addition, if an acquired business or product line fails to meet our expectations, our business, financial condition, and results of operations may be adversely affected. Failure to successfully integrate acquired businesses and their products and other assets into our Company, or if integrated, failure to further our business strategy, may result in our inability to realize any benefit from such acquisition. We expect to grow by acquiring relevant businesses. The consummation and integration of any acquired business, product or other assets into our Company may be complex and time consuming and, if such businesses and assets are not successfully integrated, we may not achieve the anticipated benefits, cost-savings or growth opportunities. Furthermore, these acquisitions and other arrangements, even if successfully integrated, may fail to further our business strategy as anticipated, expose our Company to increased competition or other challenges with respect to our products or geographic markets, and expose us to additional liabilities associated with an acquired business, technology or other asset or arrangement. We expect to grow by acquiring relevant businesses. The consummation and integration of any acquired business, product or other assets into our Company may be complex and time consuming and, if such businesses and assets are not successfully integrated, we may not achieve the anticipated benefits, cost-savings, or growth opportunities. Furthermore, these acquisitions and other arrangements, even if successfully integrated, may fail to further our business strategy as anticipated, expose our Company to increased competition or other challenges with respect to our products or geographic markets, and expose us to additional liabilities associated with an acquired business, technology or other asset or arrangement. The failure to attract and retain key employees could hurt our business. Our success also depends upon our ability to attract and retain numerous highly qualified employees. The loss of one or more members of our management team or other key employees or consultants could materially harm our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. We face competition for personnel and consultants from other companies, universities, public and private research institutions, government entities and other organizations. Our failure to attract and retain skilled management and employees may prevent or delay us from pursuing certain opportunities. If we fail to successfully fill many management roles, fail to fully integrate new members of our management team, lose the services of key personnel, or fail to attract additional qualified personnel, it will be significantly more difficult for us to achieve our growth strategies and success. We have limited supply sources, and price increases or supply shortages of key raw materials could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Our products are composed of certain key raw materials. If the prices of such raw materials increase significantly, it could result in a significant increase in our product development costs. If raw material prices increase in the future, we may not be able to pass on such price increases to our customers. A significant increase in the price of raw materials that cannot be passed on to customers could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The Company believes that its continued success will depend upon the availability of raw materials that permit the Company to meet its labeling claims and quality control standards. The supply of our industrial hemp is subject to the same risks normally associated with agricultural production, such as climactic conditions, insect infestations and availability of manual labor or equipment for harvesting. Any significant delay in or disruption of the supply of raw materials could substantially increase the cost of such materials, could require product reformulations, the qualification of new suppliers and repackaging and could result in a substantial reduction or termination by the Company of its sales of certain products, any of which could have a material adverse effect upon the Company. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the disruption of the Companys supply sources will not have a material adverse effect on the Company. 23 Loss of key contracts with our suppliers, renegotiation of such agreements on less favorable terms or other actions these third parties may take could harm our business. Most of our agreements with suppliers of our industrial hemp, including our key supplier contract, are short term. The loss of these agreements, or the renegotiation of these agreements on less favorable economic or other terms, could limit our ability to procure raw material to manufacture our products. This could negatively affect our ability to meet consumer demand for our products. Upon expiration or termination of these agreements, our competitors may be able to secure industrial hemp from our existing suppliers which will put the Company at a competitive disadvantage in the market. There is limited availability of clinical studies. Although hemp plants have a long history of human consumption, there is little long-term experience with human consumption of certain of these innovative product ingredients or combinations thereof in concentrated form. Although the Company performs research and/or tests the formulation and production of its products, there is limited clinical data regarding the safety and benefits of ingesting industrial hemp-based products. Any instance of illness or negative side effects of ingesting industrial hemp-based products would have a material adverse effect on our business and operations. We face substantial risk of product liability claims and potential adverse product publicity. Like any other retailer, distributor or manufacturer of products that are designed to be ingested, we face an inherent risk of exposure to product liability claims, regulatory action and litigation if our products are alleged to have caused loss or injury. In the event we do not have adequate insurance or contractual indemnification, product liability claims could have a material adverse effect on the Company. The Company is not currently a named defendant in any product liability lawsuit; however, other manufacturers and distributors of hemp-based products currently are or have been named as defendants in such lawsuits. The successful assertion or settlement of any uninsured claim, a significant number of insured claims, or a claim exceeding the Companys insurance coverage could have a material adverse effect on the Company. We may be unable to attract and retain independent distributors for our products. As a direct selling company, our revenue depends in part upon the number and productivity of our independent distributors. Like most direct selling companies, we experience high levels of turnover among our independent distributors from year to year, who may terminate their service at any time. Generally, we need to increase the productivity of our independent distributors and/or retain existing independent distributors and attract additional independent distributors to maintain and/or increase product sales. Many factors affect our ability to attract and retain independent distributors, including the following: publicity regarding our Company, our products, our distribution channels and our competitors; public perceptions regarding the value and efficacy of our products; ongoing motivation of our independent distributors; government regulations; general economic conditions; our compensation arrangements, training and support for our independent distributors; and competition in the market. Our results of operations and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected if our independent distributors are unable to maintain their current levels of productivity, or if we are unable to retain existing distributors and attract new distributors in sufficient numbers to maintain present sales levels and sustain future growth. We could incur obligations resulting from the activities of our independent distributors. We sell our products through a network of independent distributors. Independent distributors are independent contractors who operate their own business separately and apart from the Company. We may not be able to control certain aspects of our distributors activities that may impact our business. If local laws and regulations, or the interpretation thereof, change and require us to treat our independent distributors as employees, or if our independent distributors are deemed by local regulatory authorities in one or more of the jurisdictions in which we operate to be our employees rather than independent contractors under existing laws and interpretations, we may be held responsible for a variety of obligations that are imposed upon employers relating to their employees, including employment-related taxes and penalties, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, there is the possibility that some jurisdictions may seek to hold us responsible for false product or earnings-related claims due to the actions of our independent distributors. Liability for any of these issues could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 24 We sell our products through a network of independent distributors. Independent distributors are independent contractors who operate their own business separately and apart from the Company. We may not be able to control certain aspects of our distributors activities that may impact our business. If local laws and regulations, or the interpretation thereof, change and require us to treat our independent distributors as employees, or if our independent distributors are deemed by local regulatory authorities in one or more of the jurisdictions in which we operate to be our employees rather than independent contractors under existing laws and interpretations, we may be held responsible for a variety of obligations that are imposed upon employers relating to their employees, including employment-related taxes and penalties, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, there is the possibility that some jurisdictions may seek to hold us responsible for false product or earnings-related claims due to the actions of our independent distributors. Liability for any of these issues could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. 20 If our independent distributors failure to comply with applicable advertising laws and regulations could adversely affect our financial conditions and results of operations. The advertisement of our products is subject to extensive regulations in the markets in which we do business. Our independent distributors may fail to comply with such regulations governing the advertising of our products. We cannot ensure that all marketing materials used by our independent distributors comply with applicable regulations, including bans on false or misleading product and earnings-related claims. If our independent distributors fail to comply with applicable regulations, we could be subjected to claims of false advertising, misrepresentation, significant financial penalties, and/or costly mandatory product recalls and relabeling requirements with respect to our products, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, reputation, financial condition and results of operations. Risks Related to the CBD Industry Laws and regulations affecting the CBD industry are evolving under the Farm Bill, and changes to applicable regulations may materially affect our future operations in the CBD market. The CBD used by the Company is derived from hemp as defined in the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (United States) (the Farm Bill) and codified at 7 USC 1639o means the plant Cannabis sativa L. and any part of that plant, including the seeds thereof and all derivatives, extracts, cannabinoids, isomers, acids, salts, and salts of isomers, whether growing or not, with a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol concentration of not more than 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis. The Cannabis sativa plant and its derivatives may also be deemed marijuana, depending on certain factors. Marijuana is a Schedule I controlled substance and is defined in the Federal Controlled Substances Act at 21 USC Section 802(16) as all parts of the plant Cannabis sativa L., whether growing or not; the seeds thereof; the resin extracted from any part of such plant; and every compound, manufacture, salt, derivative, mixture, or preparation of such plant, its seeds or resin. Exemptions to that definition provided in 21 USC Section 802(16) include the mature stalks of such plant, fiber produced from such stalks, oil or cake made from the seeds of such plant, any other compound, manufacture, salt, derivative, mixture, or preparation of such mature stalks (except the resin extracted therefrom), fiber, oil, or cake, or the sterilized seed of such plant which is incapable of germination or hemp as defined in 7 USC 1639o. Substances meeting the definition of hemp in the Farm Bill and 7 USC 1639o may be used in clinical studies and research through an Investigational New Drug (IND) application with the Food and Drug Administration (the FDA). Substances scheduled as controlled substances, like marijuana, require more rigorous regulation, including interaction with several agencies including the FDA, the DEA, and the NIDA within the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Accordingly, if the CBD used by the Company is deemed marijuana and, therefore, a Schedule I controlled substance, the Company could be subject to significant additional regulation, as well as enforcement actions and penalties pertaining to the Federal Controlled Substances Act, and any resulting liability could require the Company to modify or cease its operations. Furthermore, in conjunction with the Farm Bill, the FDA released a statement about the status of CBD use in food and dietary supplements, noting that the Farm Bill explicitly preserved the FDAs authority to regulate products containing cannabis or cannabis-derived compounds under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the FDCA) and Section 351 of the Public Health Service Act. Any difficulties we experience in complying with existing and/or new government regulation could increase our operating costs and adversely impact our results of operations in future periods. The FDA has issued guidance titled FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD) pursuant to which the FDA has taken the position that CBD is prohibited from use as an ingredient in a food or beverage or as a dietary ingredient in or as a dietary supplement based on several provisions of the FDCA. In the definition of dietary supplement found in the FDCA at 201(ff), an article authorized for investigation as a new drug, antibiotic, or biological for which substantial clinical investigations have been instituted and for which the existence of such investigations has been made public, is excluded from the definition of dietary supplement. A similar provision in the FDCA 301(ll) makes it a prohibited act to introduce or deliver into commerce any food with a substance that was investigated as a new drug prior to being included in a food. There are no similar exclusions for the use of CBD in non-drug topical products, as long as such products otherwise comply with applicable laws. The FDA created a task force to address the further regulation of CBD and other cannabis-derived products and is currently evaluating the applicable science and pathways for regulating CBD and other cannabis-derived ingredients. 25 As a result of the Farm Bills recent passage, we expect that there will be a constant evolution of laws and regulations affecting the CBD industry which could affect the Companys plan of operations. Local, state and federal hemp laws and regulations may be broad in scope and subject to changing interpretations. These changes may require us to incur substantial costs associated with legal compliance and may ultimately require us to alter our business plan. Furthermore, violations of these laws, or alleged violations, could disrupt our business and result in a material adverse effect on our operations. We cannot predict the nature of any future laws, regulations, interpretations or applications, and it is possible that regulations may be enacted in the future that will be directly applicable to our business. Changes to state laws pertaining to industrial hemp could slow the use of industrial hemp, which could impact our revenues in future periods. Approximately 40 states have authorized industrial hemp programs pursuant to the Farm Bill. Additionally, various states have enacted state-specific laws pertaining to the handling, manufacturing, labeling, and sale of CBD and other hemp products. Compliance with state-specific laws and regulations could impact our operations in those specific states. Continued development of the industrial hemp industry will be dependent upon new legislative authorization of industrial hemp at the state level, and further amendment or supplementation of legislation at the federal level. Any number of events or occurrences could slow or halt progress all together in this space. While progress within the industrial hemp industry is currently encouraging, growth is not assured, and while there appears to be ample public support for favorable legislative action, numerous factors may impact or negatively affect the legislative process(es) within the various states where we have business interests. Unfavorable interpretations of laws governing hemp processing activities could subject us to enforcement or other legal proceedings and limit our business and prospects. There are no express protections in the United States under applicable federal or state law for possessing or processing hemp biomass derived from lawful hemp not exceeding 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis and intended for use in finished product, but that may temporarily exceed 0.3% THC during the interim processing stages. While it is a common occurrence for hemp biomass to have variance in THC content during interim processing stages after cultivation but prior to use in finished products, there is risk that state or federal regulators or law enforcement could take the position that such hemp biomass is a Schedule I controlled substance in violation of the CSA and similar state laws. In the event that the Companys operations are deemed to violate any laws, the Company could be subject to enforcement actions and penalties, and any resulting liability could cause the Company to modify or cease its operations. Costs associated with compliance with various laws and regulations could negatively impact our financial results. The manufacture, labeling and distribution of CBD products is regulated by various federal, state and local agencies. These governmental authorities may commence regulatory or legal proceedings, which could restrict our ability to market CBD-based products in the future. The FDA regulates our products to ensure that the products are not adulterated or misbranded. We may also be subject to regulation by other federal, state and local agencies with respect to our CBD-based products. Our advertising activities are subject to regulation by the FTC under the Federal Trade Commission Act. In recent years, the FTC and state attorneys general have initiated numerous investigations of dietary and nutritional supplement companies and products. Any actions or investigations initiated against the Company by governmental authorities or private litigants could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Any actions or investigations initiated against the Company by governmental authorities or private litigants could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 26 The shifting regulatory environment necessitates building and maintaining robust systems to achieve and maintain compliance in multiple jurisdictions and increases the possibility that we may violate one or more of the legal requirements applicable to our business and products. If our operations are found to be in violation of any applicable laws or regulations, we may be subject to penalties, including, without limitation, civil and criminal penalties, damages, fines, the curtailment or restructuring of our operations, injunctions, or product withdrawals, recalls or seizures, any of which could adversely affect our ability to operate our business, our financial condition and results of operations. Uncertainty caused by potential changes to legal regulations could impact the use and acceptance of CBD products. There is substantial uncertainty and differing interpretations and opinions among federal, state and local regulatory agencies, legislators, academics and businesses as to the scope of operation of Farm Bill-compliant hemp programs relative to the emerging regulation of cannabinoids and the Controlled Substances Act. These different opinions include, but are not limited to, the regulation of cannabinoids by the DEA and/or the FDA, and the extent to which manufacturers of products containing Farm Bill-compliant cultivators and processors may engage in interstate commerce. The existing uncertainties in the CBD regulatory landscape in the United States cannot be resolved without further federal, and perhaps state-level, legislation and regulation or a definitive judicial interpretation of existing laws and regulations. If these uncertainties are not resolved in the near future or are resolved in the manner inconsistent with our business plan, such uncertainties may have an adverse effect upon our plan of operations and the introduction of our CBD-based products in different markets. If we fail to obtain necessary permits, licenses and approvals under applicable laws and regulations, our business and plan of operations may be adversely impacted. We may be required to obtain and maintain certain permits, licenses and regulatory approvals in the jurisdictions where we sell or plan to sell our products. There can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain or maintain any necessary licenses, permits or approvals. Any material delay in obtaining, or inability to obtain, such licenses, permits and approvals is likely to delay and/or inhibit our ability to carry out our plan of operations and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Potential future international expansion of our business could expose us to additional regulatory risks and compliance costs. Although we have no plans to expand internationally for at least two or more years, if the Company intends to expand internationally or engage in the international sale of its products, it will become subject to the laws and regulations of the foreign jurisdictions in which it operates, or in which it imports or exports products or materials, including, but not limited to, customs regulations in the importing and exporting countries. The varying laws and rapidly changing regulations may impact the Companys operations and ability to ensure compliance. In addition, the Company may avail itself of proposed legislative changes in certain jurisdictions to expand its product portfolio, which expansion may include unknown business and regulatory compliance risks. Failure by the Company to comply with the evolving regulatory framework in any jurisdiction could have a material adverse effect on the Companys business, financial condition and results of operations. The market for health and wellness products is highly competitive. If we are unable to compete effectively in the market, our business and operating results could be materially and adversely affected. The market for CBD products is a competitive and rapidly evolving market. There are numerous competitors in the industry, some of whom are more well-established with longer operating histories and greater financial resources than the Company. We expect competition to continue to intensify following the recent passage of the Farm Bill. We believe the Company will be able to compete effectively because of the quality of our products and customer service. However, there can be no assurance that the Company will effectively compete with existing or future competitors. Increased competition may also drive the prices of our products down, which may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations in future periods. 27 Given the rapid changes affecting the global, national and regional economies generally, the Company may experience difficulties in establishing and maintaining a competitive advantage in the marketplace. The Companys success will depend on our ability to keep pace with any changes in such markets, especially legal and regulatory changes. Our success will depend on our ability to respond to, among other things, changes in the economy, market conditions and competitive pressures. Any failure to anticipate or respond adequately to such changes could have a material adverse effect on the Companys business, financial condition and results of operations. Furthermore, sales of a substantial number of shares of our common stock in the public markets, or the perception that such sales could occur, could depress the market price of our common stock. Risks Relating to Investing in Solana The launch of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) may adversely impact our business. The introduction of a government-issued digital currency could eliminate or reduce the need or demand for private-sector issued cryptocurrencies, or significantly limit their utility. National governments around the world could introduce CBDCs, which could in turn limit the size of the market opportunity for cryptocurrencies, including Solana. The introduction of a government-issued digital currency could eliminate or reduce the need or demand for private-sector issued cryptocurrencies or significantly limit their utility. National governments around the world could introduce CBDCs, which could in turn limit the size of the market opportunity for cryptocurrencies, including Solana. Absent federal regulations, there is a possibility that Solana may be classified as a security. Any classification of Solana as a security would subject us to additional regulation and could materially impact the operation of our business. We believe that Solana is not a security but neither the SEC nor any other U.S. federal or state regulator publicly stated whether they agree with our assessment. Despite the Trump Administrations Executive Order titled Strengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology which includes as an objective, protecting and promoting the ability of individual citizens and private sector entities alike to access and to maintain self-custody of digital assets, Solana has not yet been classified with respect to U.S. federal securities laws. Therefore, while (for the reasons discussed below) we have concluded that Solana is not a security within the meaning of the U.S. federal securities laws, and registration of the Company under The Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act) is therefore not required under the applicable securities laws, we acknowledge that a regulatory body or federal court may determine otherwise. Our conclusion, even if reasonable under the circumstances, would not preclude legal or regulatory action based on such a finding that Solana is a security which would require us to register as an investment company under the 1940 Act. We have also adapted our process for analyzing the U.S. federal securities law status of Solana and other cryptocurrencies over time, as guidance and case law have evolved. As part of our U.S. federal securities law analytical process, we take into account a number of factors, including the various definitions of security under U.S. federal securities laws and federal court decisions interpreting the elements of these definitions, such as the U.S. Supreme Courts decisions in the Howey and Reves cases, as well as court rulings, reports, orders, press releases, public statements, and speeches by the SEC Commissioners and SEC Staff providing guidance on when a digital asset or a transaction to which a digital asset may relate may be a security for purposes of U.S. federal securities laws. Our position that Solana is not a security is premised, among other reasons, on our conclusion Solana does not meet the elements of the Howey test. Among the reasons for our conclusion that Solana is not a security is that holders of Solana do not have a reasonable expectation of profits from our efforts in respect of their holding of Solana. Also, Solana ownership does not convey the right to receive any interest, rewards, or other returns We acknowledge, however, that the SEC, a federal court or another relevant entity could take a different view. The regulatory treatment of Solana is such that it has drawn significant attention from legislative and regulatory bodies, in particular the SEC which has previously stated it deemed Solana a security. Application of securities laws to the specific facts and circumstances of digital assets is complex and subject to change. Our conclusion, even if reasonable under the circumstances, would not preclude legal or regulatory action based on a finding that Solana, or any other digital asset we might hold is a security. As such, we are at risk of enforcement proceedings against us, which could result in potential injunctions, cease-and-desist orders, fines, and penalties if Solana was determined to be a security by a regulatory body or a court. Such developments could subject us to fines, penalties, and other damages, and adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition, and prospects. 28 We have also adapted our process for analyzing the U.S. federal securities law status of Solana and other cryptocurrencies over time, as guidance and case law have evolved. As part of our U.S. federal securities law analytical process, we take into account a number of factors, including the various definitions of security under U.S. federal securities laws and federal court decisions interpreting the elements of these definitions, such as the U.S. Supreme Courts decisions in the Howey and Reves cases, as well as court rulings, reports, orders, press releases, public statements, and speeches by the SEC Commissioners and SEC Staff providing guidance on when a digital asset or a transaction to which a digital asset may relate may be a security for purposes of U.S. federal securities laws. Our position that Solana is not a security is premised, among other reasons, on our conclusion Solana does not meet the elements of the Howey test. Among the reasons for our conclusion that Solana is not a security is that holders of Solana do not have a reasonable expectation of profits from our efforts in respect of their holding of Solana. Also, Solana ownership does not convey the right to receive any interest, rewards, or other returns. We acknowledge, however, that the SEC, a federal court, or another relevant entity could take a different view. The regulatory treatment of Solana is such that it has drawn significant attention from legislative and regulatory bodies, in particular the SEC which has previously stated it deemed Solana a security. Application of securities laws to the specific facts and circumstances of digital assets is complex and subject to change. Our conclusion, even if reasonable under the circumstances, would not preclude legal or regulatory action based on a finding that Solana, or any other digital asset we might hold is a security. As such, we are at risk of enforcement proceedings against us, which could result in potential injunctions, cease-and-desist orders, fines, and penalties if Solana was determined to be a security by a regulatory body or a court. Such developments could subject us to fines, penalties, and other damages, and adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition, and prospects. 21 If we were deemed to be an investment company under the 1940 Act, applicable restrictions likely would make it impractical for us to continue segments of our business as currently contemplated. Under Sections 3(a)(1)(A) and (C) of the 1940 Act, a company generally will be deemed to be an investment company if (i) it is, or holds itself out as being, engaged primarily, or proposes to engage primarily, in the business of investing, reinvesting, or trading in securities or (ii) it engages, or proposes to engage, in the business of investing, reinvesting, owning, holding, or trading in securities and it owns or proposes to acquire investment securities having a value exceeding 40% of the value of its total assets (exclusive of U.S. government securities, shares of registered money market funds under Rule 2a-7 of the 1940 Act, and cash items) on an unconsolidated basis. Rule 3a-1 under the 1940 Act generally provides that notwithstanding the Section 3(a)(1)(C) test described in clause (ii) above, an entity will not be deemed to be an investment company for purposes of the 1940 Act if no more than 45% of the value of its assets (exclusive of U.S. government securities, shares of registered money market funds under Rule 2a-7 of the 1940 Act, and cash items) consists of, and no more than 45% of its net income after taxes (for the past four fiscal quarters combined) is derived from, securities other than U.S. government securities, shares of registered money market funds under Rule 2a-7 of the 1940 Act, securities issued by employees securities companies, securities issued by qualifying majority owned subsidiaries of such entity, and securities issued by qualifying companies that are controlled primarily by such entity. We do not believe that we are an investment company as such term is defined in either Section 3(a)(1)(A) or Section 3(a)(1)(C) of the 1940 Act. Since our formation, we have been a brand owner specializing in the development, manufacturing and distribution of consumer products. Recently, we have begun focusing on pursuing opportunities to expand our portfolio into coins, digital assets and MA in the fintech space. With respect to Section 3(a)(1)(A), an amount in excess of 40% of our total assets holds Solana. Since we believe Solana is not an investment security, we do not hold ourselves out as being engaged primarily, or propose to engage primarily, in the business of investing, reinvesting, or trading in securities within the meaning of Section 3(a)(1)(A) of the 1940 Act. Since our formation, we have been a brand owner specializing in the development, manufacturing and distribution of consumer products. Recently, we have begun focusing on pursuing opportunities to expand our portfolio into coins, digital assets and MA in the fintech space. With respect to Section 3(a)(1)(A), we hold an amount of Solana which exceeds 40% of our total assets. Since we believe Solana is not an investment security, we do not hold ourselves out as being engaged primarily, or propose to engage primarily, in the business of investing, reinvesting, or trading in securities within the meaning of Section 3(a)(1)(A) of the 1940 Act. With respect to Section 3(a)(1)(C), we believe we satisfy the elements of Rule 3a-1 and therefore are deemed not to be an investment company under, and we intend to conduct our operations such that we will not be deemed an investment company under, Section 3(a)(1)(C). We believe that we are not an investment company pursuant to Rule 3a-1 under the 1940 Act because, on a consolidated basis with respect to wholly-owned subsidiaries but otherwise on an unconsolidated basis, no more than 45% of the value of the Companys total assets (exclusive of U.S. government securities, shares of registered money market funds under Rule 2a-7 of the 1940 Act, and cash items) consists of, and no more than 45% of the Companys net income after taxes (for the last four fiscal quarters combined) is derived from, securities other than U.S. government securities, shares of registered money market funds under Rule 2a-7 of the 1940 Act, securities issued by employees securities companies, securities issued by qualifying majority owned subsidiaries of the Company, and securities issued by qualifying companies that are controlled primarily by the Company. Solana and other digital assets, as well as new business models and transactions enabled by blockchain technologies, present novel interpretive questions under the 1940 Act. There is a risk that assets or arrangements that we have concluded are not securities could be deemed to be securities by the SEC or another authority for purposes of the 1940 Act, which would increase the percentage of securities held by us for 1940 Act purposes. The SEC has requested information from a number of participants in the digital assets ecosystem, regarding the potential application of the 1940 Act to their businesses. For example, in an action unrelated to the Company, in February 2022, the SEC issued a cease-and-desist order under the 1940 Act to BlockFi Lending LLC, in which the SEC alleged that BlockFi was operating as an unregistered investment company because it issued securities and also held more than 40% of its total assets, excluding cash, in investment securities, including the loans of digital assets made by BlockFi to institutional borrowers. If we were deemed to be an investment company, Rule 3a-2 under the 1940 Act is a safe harbor that provides a one-year grace period for transient investment companies that have a bona fide intent to be engaged primarily, as soon as is reasonably possible (in any event by the termination of such one-year period), in a business other than that of investing, reinvesting, owning, holding, or trading in securities, with such intent evidenced by the companys business activities and an appropriate resolution of its board of directors. The grace period is available not more than once every three years and runs from the earlier of (i) the date on which the issuer owns securities and/or cash having a value exceeding 50% of the issuers total assets on either a consolidated or unconsolidated basis or (ii) the date on which the issuer owns or proposes to acquire investment securities having a value exceeding 40% of the value of such issuers total assets (exclusive of U.S. government securities and cash items) on an unconsolidated basis. Accordingly, the grace period may not be available at the time that we seek to rely on Rule 3a-2; however, Rule 3a-2 is a safe harbor and we may rely on any exemption or exclusion from investment company status available to us under the 1940 Act at any given time. Furthermore, reliance on Rule 3a-2, Section 3(a)(1)(C), or Rule 3a-1 could require us to take actions to dispose of securities, limit our ability to make certain investments or enter into joint ventures, or otherwise limit or change our service offerings and operations. If we were to be deemed an investment company in the future, restrictions imposed by the 1940 Actincluding limitations on our ability to issue different classes of stock and equity compensation to directors, officers, and employees and restrictions on management, operations, and transactions with affiliated personslikely would make it impractical for us to continue our business as contemplated, and could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, and prospects. 29 22 We may be subject to regulatory developments related to crypto assets and crypto asset markets, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. As Solana and other digital assets are relatively novel and the application of state and federal securities laws and other laws and regulations to digital assets is unclear in certain respects, it is possible that regulators in the United States or foreign countries may interpret or apply existing laws and regulations in a manner that adversely affects the price of Solana. The U.S. federal government, states, regulatory agencies, and foreign countries may also enact new laws and regulations, or pursue regulatory, legislative, enforcement or judicial actions, that could materially impact the price of Solana or the ability of individuals or institutions such as us to own or transfer Solana. If Solana is determined to constitute a security for purposes of the federal securities laws, the additional regulatory restrictions imposed by such a determination could adversely affect the market price of Solana and in turn adversely affect the market price of our common stock. Moreover, the risks of us engaging in a Solana treasury strategy have created, and could continue to create complications due to the lack of experience that third parties have with companies engaging in such a strategy, such as increased costs of director and officer liability insurance or the potential inability to obtain such coverage on acceptable terms in the future. Our Management relies upon the advice of an asset manager through an asset management agreement to assist in building a narrowly focused investment strategy and the execution of the Companys strategy and may not yield the desired return. Our management and GSR Strategies, LLC, the asset manager, will have broad discretion in the application of the net proceeds from any offering by the Company and could spend the proceeds in ways that do not improve our results of operations or enhance the value of our common stock. The failure to apply these funds effectively could result in financial losses that could cause the price of our common stock to decline. We may use the net proceeds from any offering by the Company to purchase additional Solana, the price of which has been, and will likely continue to be, highly volatile. We may use the net proceeds from any offering by the Company to purchase additional Solana. Solana is a highly volatile asset. Solana does not pay interest, but if management determines to stake the Solana tokens in treasury, rewards can be earned on Solana. The ability to generate a return on investment from the net proceeds from any offering by the Company will depend on whether there is appreciation in the value of Solana following our purchases of Solana with the net proceeds from any offering by the Company. Future fluctuations in Solanas trading prices may result in our converting Solana purchased with the net proceeds from any offering into cash with a value substantially below the net proceeds from such an offering. Momentum pricing . The value of a single unit of SOL, as represented by various exchanges, may also be subject to momentum pricing due to speculation regarding future appreciation in value, leading to greater volatility that could adversely affect the value of the Shares. Momentum pricing typically is associated with growth stocks and other assets whose valuation, as determined by the investing public, is impacted by appreciation in value. Momentum pricing may result in speculation regarding future appreciation in the value of digital assets, which inflates prices and leads to increased volatility. As a result, SOL may be more likely to fluctuate in value due to changing investor confidence in future appreciation or depreciation in prices, which could adversely affect the price of SOL, and, in turn, our stock price. 30 The trading prices of many digital assets, including SOL, have experienced extreme volatility in recent periods and may continue to do so. Extreme volatility in the future, including declines in the trading prices of SOL, could have a material adverse effect on the value of the Shares and the Shares could lose all or substantially all of their value . The value of a single unit of SOL, as represented by various exchanges, may also be subject to momentum pricing due to speculation regarding future appreciation in value, leading to greater volatility that could adversely affect the value of the shares. Momentum pricing typically is associated with growth stocks and other assets whose valuation, as determined by the investing public, is impacted by appreciation in value. Momentum pricing may result in speculation regarding future appreciation in the value of digital assets, which inflates prices and leads to increased volatility. As a result, SOL may be more likely to fluctuate in value due to changing investor confidence in future appreciation or depreciation in prices, which could adversely affect the price of SOL, and, in turn, our stock price. The trading prices of many digital assets, including SOL, have experienced extreme volatility in recent periods and may continue to do so. Extreme volatility in the future, including declines in the trading prices of SOL, could have a material adverse effect on the value of the shares and the shares could lose all or substantially all of their value . The trading prices of many digital assets, including SOL, have experienced extreme volatility throughout their existence, including in recent periods and may continue to do so. For instance, following significant increases throughout the majority of 2020, digital asset prices, including SOL, experienced significant volatility throughout 2021 and 2022. This volatility became extreme in November 2022 when FTX Trading Ltd. (FTX) halted customer withdrawals. Developments during the last cryptocurrency bear market led to extreme volatility and disruption in digital asset markets, a loss of confidence in participants of the digital asset ecosystem, significant negative publicity surrounding digital assets broadly and market-wide declines in liquidity. Digital asset prices, including SOL, have continued to fluctuate widely. For example, according to Bloomberg, Solanas 90-day realized volatility has generally ranged from 70-100% over the last several months. Extreme volatility in the future, including declines in the trading prices of SOL, could have a material adverse effect on the value of the Shares and the Shares could lose all or substantially all of their value. Furthermore, negative perception, a lack of stability and standardized regulation in the digital asset economy may reduce confidence in the digital asset economy and may result in greater volatility in the price of SOL and other digital assets, including a depreciation in value. Currently, we do not hedge against SOL volatility, as our goal is to benefit shareholders through long-term value appreciation rather than short-term hedging. While we may consider hedging strategies for our treasury or acquisitions in the future, there is no guarantee they will significantly reduce digital asset volatility or increase the treasurys value. Fluctuations in the price of Solana may significantly influence the market price of our common stock. To the extent investors view the value of our common stock as linked to the value or change in the value of our Solana treasury, fluctuations in the price of Solana may significantly influence the market price of our common stock. Solana is a highly volatile asset that has traded as low as $60 and as high as $253 in the 12 months preceding the date of this Annual Report. The impact of our Solana treasury on our financial results and the market price of our common stock is likely to increase as we increase our overall holdings of our Solana treasury in the future. A significant decrease in the market value of our Solana could adversely affect our ability to satisfy our financial obligations. As part of our Solana treasury strategy, we expect to incur or continue to incur additional indebtedness and fixed charges. We do not expect our consumer products business to generate sufficient cash flow from operations to satisfy our financial obligations over the next twelve months. In such a case, we intend to fund our obligations using cash proceeds from equity or debt financings. Our ability to obtain equity or debt financing may in turn depend on, among other factors, the value of our Solana treasury holdings, investor sentiment and the general public perception of Solana, our strategy and our value proposition. Accordingly, a significant decline in the market value of our Solana treasury holdings or a negative shift in these other factors may create liquidity and credit risks, as such a decline or such shifts may adversely impact our ability to secure sufficient equity or debt financing to satisfy our financial obligations, including our debt and cash dividend obligations. These risks could materialize at times when Solana is trading below its value on our most recent balance sheet or our cost basis. As Solana constitutes the vast bulk of assets on our balance sheet, if we are unable to secure equity or debt financing in a timely manner, on favorable terms, or at all, we may be required to sell Solana to satisfy our financial obligations, and we may be required to make such sales at prices below our cost basis or that are otherwise generally unfavorable. Any such sale of Solana may have a material adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition, and could impair our ability to secure additional equity or debt financing in the future. Our inability to secure additional equity or debt financing in a timely manner, on favorable terms or at all, or to sell our Solana holdings in amounts and at prices sufficient to satisfy our financial obligations, including our debt service, could cause us to default under such obligations. Any default on our current or future indebtedness could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition. 23 Extreme volatility in the future, including declines in the trading prices of SOL, could have a material adverse effect on the value of the shares and the shares could lose all or substantially all of their value. Furthermore, negative perception, a lack of stability and standardized regulation in the digital asset economy may reduce confidence in the digital asset economy and may result in greater volatility in the price of SOL and other digital assets, including a depreciation in value. Furthermore, changes in U.S. political leadership and economic policies may create uncertainty that materially affects the price of SOL and the Companys Share Price. For example, on March 6, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order to establish a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and a United States Digital Asset Stockpile. Pursuant to this Executive Order, the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve will be capitalized with Bitcoin owned by the Department of Treasury that was forfeited as part of criminal or civil asset forfeiture proceedings, and the Secretaries of Treasury and Commerce are authorized to develop budget-neutral strategies for acquiring additional Bitcoin, provided that those strategies impose no incremental costs on American taxpayers. There are numerous companies announcing their intention to build a digital asset treasury and specifically SOL treasury. This concentration of SOL holdings within a few treasury companies could cause the price of SOL to rapidly decline based on one or more of these treasury companies liquidating their position and could have a material adverse effect on the value of the Shares and the Shares could lose all or substantially all of their value . There are numerous companies announcing their intention to build a digital asset treasury and specifically SOL treasury. This concentration of SOL holdings within a few treasury companies could cause the price of SOL to rapidly decline based on one or more of these treasury companies liquidating their position and could have a material adverse effect on the value of the shares and the shares could lose all or substantially all of their value . There are currently a number of public companies that have announced intentions to accumulate Solana tokens, in addition to certain public companies that have already amassed Solana tokens as part of digital asset treasury strategies. This pool of buyers or potential buyers can significantly affect volume of transactions that would not otherwise exist and lead to concentrations of Solana tokens. The potential effect of such scale is a concentration of holdings that may lead to a wide range of price movements, whether that be increases to the upside or decreases to the downside. We cannot assure stability of prices of Solana tokens and to the extent the market price of our common stock moves in alignment with the price of Solana, we cannot assure stability with respect to the market price of our common stock. 31 Our Solana holdings are less liquid than our existing cash and cash equivalents and may not be able to serve as a source of liquidity for us to the same extent as cash and cash equivalents. Historically, the crypto markets have been characterized by: significant volatility in price, limited liquidity and trading volumes compared to sovereign currencies markets; relative anonymity; a developing regulatory landscape; potential susceptibility to market abuse and manipulation; compliance and internal control failures at exchanges; and various other risks inherent in its entirely electronic, virtual form and decentralized network. During times of market instability, we may not be able to sell our Solana at favorable prices or at all. Further, Solana which we hold with our custodians does not enjoy the same protections as are available to cash or securities deposited with or transacted by institutions subject to regulation by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the Securities Investor Protection Corporation. Additionally, pursuant to the asset management agreement we entered into with the asset manager, we are currently and may generally be unable to enter into term loans or other capital raising transactions collateralized by our unencumbered Solana or otherwise generate funds using our Solana holdings, including in particular during times of market instability or when the price of Solana has declined significantly. If we are unable to sell our Solana, enter into additional capital raising transactions using Solana as collateral, or otherwise generate funds using our Solana holdings, or if we are forced to sell our Solana at a significant loss, in order to meet our working capital requirements, our business and financial condition could be negatively impacted. Historically, the crypto markets have been characterized by significant volatility in price, limited liquidity and trading volumes compared to sovereign currencies markets; relative anonymity; a developing regulatory landscape; potential susceptibility to market abuse and manipulation; compliance and internal control failures at exchanges; and various other risks inherent in its entirely electronic, virtual form and decentralized network. During times of market instability, we may not be able to sell our Solana at favorable prices or at all. Further, Solana which we hold with our custodians does not enjoy the same protections as are available to cash or securities deposited with or transacted by institutions subject to regulation by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the Securities Investor Protection Corporation. If we are unable to sell our Solana, enter into additional capital raising transactions using Solana as collateral, or otherwise generate funds using our Solana holdings, or if we are forced to sell our Solana at a significant loss, in order to meet our working capital requirements, our business and financial condition could be negatively impacted. We are not subject to legal and regulatory obligations that apply to investment companies such as mutual funds and exchange-traded funds, or to obligations applicable to investment advisers. Mutual funds, exchange-traded funds and their directors and management are subject to extensive regulation as investment companies and investment advisers under U.S. federal and state law; this regulation is intended for the benefit and protection of investors. We are not subject to, and do not otherwise voluntarily comply with, these laws and regulations. This means, among other things, that the execution of or changes to our Treasury Reserve Policy or our Solana strategy, our use of leverage, the manner in which our Solana is custodied, our ability to engage in transactions with affiliated parties and our operating and investment activities generally are not subject to the extensive legal and regulatory requirements and prohibitions that apply to investment companies and investment advisers. Consequently, our board of directors has broad discretion over the investment, leverage and cash management policies it authorizes, whether in respect of our Solana holdings or other activities we may pursue, and has the power to change our current policies, including our strategy of acquiring and holding Solana. 24 If we or our third-party service providers experience a security breach or cyberattack and unauthorized parties obtain access to our Solana, or if our private keys are lost or destroyed, or other similar circumstances or events occur, we may lose some or all of our Solana and our financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. Substantially all of the Solana we own is held in custody accounts at U.S.-based institutional-grade digital asset custodians. Security breaches and cyberattacks are of particular concern with respect to our Solana. Solana and other blockchain-based cryptocurrencies and the entities that provide services to participants in the Solana ecosystem have been, and may in the future be, subject to security breaches, cyberattacks, or other malicious activities. For example, in October 2021 it was reported that hackers exploited a flaw in the account recovery process and stole from the accounts of at least 6,000 customers of the Coinbase exchange, although the flaw was subsequently fixed and Coinbase reimbursed affected customers. Similarly, in November 2022, hackers exploited weaknesses in the security architecture of the FTX Trading digital asset exchange and reportedly stole over $400 million in digital assets from customers. A successful security breach or cyberattack could result in: a partial or total loss of our Solana in a manner that may not be covered by insurance or the liability provisions of the custody agreements with the custodians who hold our Solana; harm to our reputation and brand; improper disclosure of data and violations of applicable data privacy and other laws; or significant regulatory scrutiny, investigations, fines, penalties, and other legal, regulatory, contractual and financial exposure. Further, any actual or perceived data security breach or cybersecurity attack directed at other companies with digital assets or companies that operate digital asset networks, regardless of whether we are directly impacted, could lead to a general loss of confidence in the broader Solana ecosystem or in the use of the Solana network to conduct financial transactions, which could negatively impact us. 32 Attacks upon systems across a variety of industries, including industries related to Solana, are increasing in frequency, persistence, and sophistication, and, in many cases, are being conducted by sophisticated, well-funded and organized groups and individuals, including state actors. The techniques used to obtain unauthorized, improper or illegal access to systems and information (including personal data and digital assets), disable or degrade services, or sabotage systems are constantly evolving, may be difficult to detect quickly, and often are not recognized or detected until after they have been launched against a target. These attacks may occur on our systems or those of our third-party service providers or partners. We may experience breaches of our security measures due to human error, malfeasance, insider threats, system errors or vulnerabilities or other irregularities. In particular, we expect that unauthorized parties will attempt to gain access to our systems and facilities, as well as those of our partners and third-party service providers, through various means, such as hacking, social engineering, phishing and fraud. Threats can come from a variety of sources, including criminal hackers, hacktivists, state-sponsored intrusions, industrial espionage, and insiders. In addition, certain types of attacks could harm us even if our systems are left undisturbed. For example, certain threats are designed to remain dormant or undetectable, sometimes for extended periods of time, or until launched against a target and we may not be able to implement adequate preventative measures. Further, there has been an increase in such activities due to the increase in work-from-home arrangements. The risk of cyberattacks could also be increased by cyberwarfare in connection with the ongoing Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts, or other future conflicts, including potential proliferation of malware into systems unrelated to such conflicts. Any future breach of our operations or those of others in the Solana industry, including third-party services on which we rely, could materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. We have limited history in generating staking revenues from Solana, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results. Until recently, our business focus was as a brand owner specializing in the development, manufacturing, and distribution of consumer products. We reach consumers through our direct-to-consumer network, wholesale partnerships, and major third-party platforms like Amazon. We have recently shifted the focus of our operations to a treasury policy under which the principal holding in its treasury reserve on the balance sheet will be allocated to digital assets, and specifically long term strategy of holding Solana (SOL) by applying a proven public-market treasury model to an asset that we believe is earlier in its lifecycle, structurally reflexive, and vastly underexposed. 25 We have a limited operating history with the current scale of our business, which makes it difficult to forecast our prospects and future results of operations. You should take into account the risks and uncertainties frequently encountered by companies in rapidly evolving markets. Our recent revenue growth should not be considered indicative of our future performance. Further, in future periods, our revenue growth could slow or our revenue could decline for a number of reasons, including unexpected government regulation, any reduction in the value of cryptocurrency generally or Solana specifically, demand for our platform, increased competition, contraction of our overall market, our inability to accurately forecast demand for our platform and plan for capacity constraints or our failure, for any reason, to capitalize on growth opportunities. If our assumptions regarding these risks and uncertainties, which we use to plan our business, are incorrect or change, or if we do not address these risks successfully, our business would be harmed. If the digital asset award or transaction fees for recording transactions on the Solana network are not sufficiently high to incentivize validators may demand high transaction fees, which could negatively impact the value of SOL and the value of the Shares. If the digital asset awards for validating blocks or the transaction fees for recording transactions on the Solana network are not sufficiently high to incentivize validators, or if certain jurisdictions continue to limit or otherwise regulate validating activities, validators may cease expending validating power to validate blocks and confirmations of transactions on the SOL blockchain could be slowed. For example, the realization of one or more of the following risks could materially adversely affect the value of the Shares: Over the past several years, digital asset validating operations have evolved from individual users validating with computer processors, graphics processing units and first-generation application specific integrated circuit machines to professionalized validating operations using proprietary hardware or sophisticated machines. If the profit margins of digital asset validating operations are not sufficiently high, digital asset validators are more likely to immediately sell digital assets earned by validating, resulting in an increase in liquid supply of that digital asset, which would generally tend to reduce that digital assets market price.. 33 If the digital asset award or transaction fees for recording transactions on the Solana network are not sufficiently high to incentivize validators may demand high transaction fees, which could negatively impact the value of SOL and the value of the shares. If the digital asset awards for validating blocks or the transaction fees for recording transactions on the Solana network are not sufficiently high to incentivize validators, or if certain jurisdictions continue to limit or otherwise regulate validating activities, validators may cease expending validating power to validate blocks and confirmations of transactions on the SOL blockchain could be slowed. For example, the realization of one or more of the following risks could materially adversely affect the value of the shares: Over the past several years, digital asset validating operations have evolved from individual users validating with computer processors, graphics processing units and first-generation application specific integrated circuit machines to professionalized validating operations using proprietary hardware or sophisticated machines. If the profit margins of digital asset validating operations are not sufficiently high, digital asset validators are more likely to immediately sell digital assets earned by validating, resulting in an increase in liquid supply of that digital asset, which would generally tend to reduce that digital assets market price. A reduction in the digital assets staked by validators on the Solana network could increase the likelihood of a malicious actor or botnet (a volunteer or hacked collection of computers controlled by networked software coordinating the actions of the computers) obtaining control. Validators have historically accepted relatively low transaction confirmation fees on most digital asset networks. If validators demand higher transaction fees for recording transactions in the Solana blockchain or a software upgrade automatically charges fees for all transactions on the Solana network, the cost of using SOL may increase and the marketplace may be reluctant to accept SOL as a means of payment. Alternatively, validators could collude in an anti-competitive manner to reject low transaction fees on the Solana network and force users to pay higher fees, thus reducing the attractiveness of the Solana network. Higher transaction confirmation fees resulting through collusion or otherwise may adversely affect the attractiveness of the Solana network, the value of SOL and the value of the Shares. Validators have historically accepted relatively low transaction confirmation fees on most digital asset networks. If validators demand higher transaction fees for recording transactions in the Solana blockchain or a software upgrade automatically charges fees for all transactions on the Solana network, the cost of using SOL may increase and the marketplace may be reluctant to accept SOL as a means of payment. Alternatively, validators could collude in an anti-competitive manner to reject low transaction fees on the Solana network and force users to pay higher fees, thus reducing the attractiveness of the Solana network. Higher transaction confirmation fees resulting through collusion or otherwise may adversely affect the attractiveness of the Solana network, the value of SOL and the value of the shares. To the extent that any validators cease to record transactions that do not include the payment of a transaction fee in blocks or do not record a transaction because the transaction fee is too low, such transactions will not be recorded on the Solana blockchain until a block is validated by a validator who does not require the payment of transaction fees or is willing to accept a lower fee. Any widespread delays or disruptions in the recording of transactions could result in a loss of confidence in the Solana network and could prevent the Company from completing transactions associated with the day-to-day operations of the treasury. During the course of the block validation processes, validators exercise the discretion to select bundles of transactions within a block. Beyond the standard block reward and transaction fees, validators have the ability to extract what is known as Maximal Extractable Value (MEV) by strategically selecting bundles of transactions during block production to prioritize transactions associated with higher transaction fees and MEV capture. In blockchain networks that facilitate DeFi protocols in particular, such as the Solana network, users may attempt to gain an advantage over other users by offering additional fees to validators for effecting the order or inclusions of transactions within a block. Certain software solutions, such as Jito, have been developed which facilitate validators and other parties in the ecosystem in capturing MEV. The presence of MEV may incentivize associated practices such as sandwich attacks or front-running that can have negative repercussions on DeFi users. A sandwich attack involves placing two transactionsone before and one aftera large, detected trade to exploit the resulting price movement. Unlike Ethereum, Solana lacks a public mempool, making it harder to detect pending user transactions. However, validators can choose to run clients like Jito or Paladin, which support MEV strategies that may enable sandwich attacks. For instance, searchers can submit bundles of transactions with precise ordering, allowing them to surround a vulnerable trade if detected. In the context of MEV, front-running is said to occur when a user spots an unexecuted transaction and awaiting validation, and then pays a high transaction fee to a validator to have their transaction executed on a priority basis in a manner designed to profit from the pending but unexecuted transaction. Since Solana doesnt have a public mempool (memory pool), validators and bots have limited visibility to unexecuted, or pending, transactions. Combined with Solanas fast block times and parallel execution model, this makes it hard to detect and exploit user trades in real time. However, that doesnt mean front- running is impossible. If a validator colludes with a bot, for example, it could potentially observe and front-run transactions. By running Jito or similar clients, validators have access to structure MEV systems where searchers submit bundles of ordered transactions to validators through an auction system. Validators select the most profitable bundles (based on transaction fees and MEV capture). Considering searchers determine the ordering through their bundles, front-running is possible. As of 2025, up to five transactions can be in a bundle for Jito. The transactions in a bundle must be executed atomically and in sequence, meaning if one transaction fails, the entire bundle does not get processed. Note, these MEV technologies, in this case Jito, can also offer user protections like front-running flags and protected order flow to mitigate risks. MEV may also compromise the predictability of transaction execution, which may deter usage of the network as a whole. Any potential perception of MEV as unfair manipulation may also discourage users and other stakeholders from engaging with DeFi protocols or the Solana network in general. In addition, its possible regulators or legislators could enact rules that restrict practices associated with MEV, which could diminish the popularity of the Solana network among users and validators. Any of these or other outcomes related to MEV may adversely affect the value of SOL and the value of the Shares. 34 During the course of the block validation processes, validators exercise the discretion to select bundles of transactions within a block. Beyond the standard block reward and transaction fees, validators have the ability to extract what is known as Maximal Extractable Value (MEV) by strategically selecting bundles of transactions during block production to prioritize transactions associated with higher transaction fees and MEV capture. In blockchain networks that facilitate DeFi protocols in particular, such as the Solana network, users may attempt to gain an advantage over other users by offering additional fees to validators for effecting the order or inclusions of transactions within a block. Certain software solutions, such as Jito, have been developed which facilitate validators and other parties in the ecosystem in capturing MEV. The presence of MEV may incentivize associated practices such as sandwich attacks or front-running that can have negative repercussions on DeFi users. A sandwich attack involves placing two transactionsone before and one aftera large, detected trade to exploit the resulting price movement. Unlike Ethereum, Solana lacks a public mempool, making it harder to detect pending user transactions. However, validators can choose to run clients like Jito or Paladin, which support MEV strategies that may enable sandwich attacks. For instance, searchers can submit bundles of transactions with precise ordering, allowing them to surround a vulnerable trade if detected. In the context of MEV, front-running is said to occur when a user spots an unexecuted transaction and awaiting validation, and then pays a high transaction fee to a validator to have their transaction executed on a priority basis in a manner designed to profit from the pending but unexecuted transaction. Since Solana doesnt have a public mempool (memory pool), validators and bots have limited visibility to unexecuted, or pending, transactions. Combined with Solanas fast block times and parallel execution model, this makes it hard to detect and exploit user trades in real time. However, that does not mean front-running is impossible. If a validator colludes with a bot, for example, it could potentially observe and front-run transactions. By running Jito or similar clients, validators have access to structure MEV systems where searchers submit bundles of ordered transactions to validators through an auction system. Validators select the most profitable bundles (based on transaction fees and MEV capture). Considering searchers determine the ordering through their bundles, front-running is possible. As of 2026, up to five transactions can be in a bundle for Jito. The transactions in a bundle must be executed atomically and in sequence, meaning if one transaction fails, the entire bundle does not get processed. Note, these MEV technologies, in this case Jito, can also offer user protections like front-running flags and protected order flow to mitigate risks. MEV may also compromise the predictability of transaction execution, which may deter usage of the network as a whole. Any potential perception of MEV as unfair manipulation may also discourage users and other stakeholders from engaging with DeFi protocols or the Solana network in general. In addition, its possible regulators or legislators could enact rules that restrict practices associated with MEV, which could diminish the popularity of the Solana network among users and validators. Any of these or other outcomes related to MEV may adversely affect the value of SOL and the value of the shares. 26 Our trading orders may not be timely executed. Our investment and trading strategies depend on the ability to establish and maintain an overall market position in a combination of financial instruments. Our trading orders may not be executed in a timely and efficient manner because of various circumstances, including, for example, trading volume surges or systems failures attributable to us or our counterparties, brokers, dealers, agents or other service providers. In such an event, we might only be able to acquire or dispose of some, but not all, of the components of our positions, or if the overall positions were to need adjustments, we might not be able to make such adjustments. As a result, we would not be able to achieve our desired market position, which may result in a loss. In addition, we can be expected to rely heavily on electronic execution systems (and may rely on new systems and technology in the future), which may be subject to certain systemic limitations or mistakes, causing the interruption of trading orders made by us. Competition from other companies staking and utilizing Solana in their treasury plans. We expect to contend with other companies also focused on developing digital asset staking operations. Market participants with sufficient knowledge and capital have the ability to acquire tokens on the open market and start staking, which would increase competition. Competition from central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) and emerging payments initiatives involving financial institutions could adversely affect the price of SOL and other digital assets. Central banks in various countries have introduced digital forms of legal tender (CBDCs). Chinas CBDC project, known as Digital Currency Electronic Payment, has reportedly been tested in a live pilot program conducted in multiple cities in China. Central banks representing at least 130 countries have published retail or wholesale CBDC work ranging from research to pilot projects. Whether or not they incorporate blockchain or similar technology, CBDCs, as legal tender in the issuing jurisdiction, could have an advantage in competing with, or replace, SOL and other cryptocurrencies as a medium of exchange or store of value. Central banks and other governmental entities have also announced cooperative initiatives and consortia with private sector entities, with the goal of leveraging blockchain and other technology to reduce friction in cross-border and interbank payments and settlement, and commercial banks and other financial institutions have also recently announced a number of initiatives of their own to incorporate new technologies, including blockchain and similar technologies, into their payments and settlement activities, which could compete with, or reduce the demand for, SOL. As a result of any of the foregoing factors, the price of SOL could decrease, which could adversely affect the value of the Companys Stock Price. Competition from the emergence or expansion of other digital assets may negatively influence the price of SOL and have an adverse impact on the value of the Shares. As of June 30, 2025, SOL ranked as the sixth largest digital asset by market capitalization, according to CoinMarketCap.com. SOL encounters competition from a broad spectrum of digital assets, including Bitcoin and Ether. Additionally, numerous consortiums and financial institutions are investing in private or permissioned blockchain platforms rather than open networks such as the Solana Network. SOL is currently supported by fewer trading platforms compared to more established digital assets like Bitcoin and Ether, which may affect its liquidity. The Solana Network also competes directly with other smart contract platforms, including Ethereum, Polkadot, Avalanche, and Cardano. The emergence or growth of alternative digital assets or other smart contract platforms may diminish demand for, and the price of, SOL, thereby adversely affecting the value of the Shares. 35 Central banks in various countries have introduced digital forms of legal tender (CBDCs). Chinas CBDC project, known as Digital Currency Electronic Payment, has reportedly been tested in a live pilot program conducted in multiple cities in China. Central banks representing at least 130 countries have published retail or wholesale CBDC work ranging from research to pilot projects. Whether or not they incorporate blockchain or similar technology, CBDCs, as legal tender in the issuing jurisdiction, could have an advantage in competing with, or replace, SOL and other cryptocurrencies as a medium of exchange or store of value. Central banks and other governmental entities have also announced cooperative initiatives and consortia with private sector entities, with the goal of leveraging blockchain and other technology to reduce friction in cross-border and interbank payments and settlement, and commercial banks and other financial institutions have also recently announced a number of initiatives of their own to incorporate new technologies, including blockchain and similar technologies, into their payments and settlement activities, which could compete with, or reduce the demand for, SOL. As a result of any of the foregoing factors, the price of SOL could decrease, which could adversely affect the value of the Companys stock price. Competition from the emergence or expansion of other digital assets may negatively influence the price of SOL and have an adverse impact on the value of the shares. As of June 30, 2026, SOL ranked as the seventh largest digital asset by market capitalization, according to CoinMarketCap.com. SOL encounters competition from a broad spectrum of digital assets, including Bitcoin and Ether. Additionally, numerous consortiums and financial institutions are investing in private or permissioned blockchain platforms rather than open networks such as the Solana Network. SOL is currently supported by fewer trading platforms compared to more established digital assets like Bitcoin and Ether, which may affect its liquidity. The Solana Network also competes directly with other smart contract platforms, including Ethereum, Polkadot, Avalanche, and Cardano. The emergence or growth of alternative digital assets or other smart contract platforms may diminish demand for, and the price of, SOL, thereby adversely affecting the value of the shares. Investors have the option to gain exposure to SOL through mechanisms other than the Companys Shares, such as direct investment in SOL or through other financial vehicles, including securities or products backed by or linked to SOL. Specifically, the Company faces competition from other exchange-traded spot SOL products and similar digital asset vehicles, several of which have pending applications before the SEC or have already secured SEC approval. The Companys ability to maintain its scale and achieve its intended competitive positioning may depend on various factors, such as its timing relative to competing products and its ability to raise additional capital. Furthermore, if other financial vehicles tracking SOL constitute a significant portion of overall demand, substantial transactions involving these vehicles or private funds holding SOL could adversely affect the Index Price, NAV, NAV per Share, value of the Shares, Principal Market NAV, and Principal Market NAV per Share. Therefore, there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to preserve its scale or attain its intended competitive position relative to peers, which could negatively affect both the performance of the Company and the value of the Shares. 27 Furthermore, if other financial vehicles tracking SOL constitute a significant portion of overall demand, substantial transactions involving these vehicles or private funds holding SOL could adversely affect the Index Price, NAV, NAV per Share, value of the shares, Principal Market NAV, and Principal Market NAV per Share. Therefore, there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to preserve its scale or attain its intended competitive position relative to peers, which could negatively affect both the performance of the Company and the value of the shares. We may fail to develop and execute successful investment or trading strategies. The success of our investment and trading activities will depend on the ability of our investment team and Asset Manager to identify overvalued and undervalued investment opportunities and to exploit price discrepancies. This process involves a high degree of uncertainty. No assurance can be given that we will be able to identify suitable or profitable investment opportunities in which to deploy our capital. The success of the trading activities also depends on our ability to remain competitive with other over-the-counter traders and liquidity providers. Competition in trading is based on price, offerings, level of service, technology, relationships and market intelligence. The success of investment activities depends on our ability to source deals and obtain favorable terms. Competition in investment activities is based on relationships. The barrier to entry in each of these businesses is very low and competitors can easily and will likely provide similar services in the near future. The success of our venture investments and trading business could suffer if we are not able to remain competitive. The success of our investment and trading activities will depend on the ability of our investment team and any asset manager, should we elect to retain one in the future to identify overvalued and undervalued investment opportunities and to exploit price discrepancies. This process involves a high degree of uncertainty. No assurance can be given that we will be able to identify suitable or profitable investment opportunities in which to deploy our capital. The success of the trading activities also depends on our ability to remain competitive with other over-the-counter traders and liquidity providers. Competition in trading is based on price, offerings, level of service, technology, relationships and market intelligence. The success of investment activities depends on our ability to source deals and obtain favorable terms. Competition in investment activities is based on relationships. The barrier to entry in each of these businesses is very low and competitors can easily and will likely provide similar services in the near future. The success of our venture investments and trading business could suffer if we are not able to remain competitive. We may make, or otherwise be subject to, trade errors. Errors may occur with respect to trades executed on our behalf. Trade errors can result from a variety of situations, including, for example, when the wrong investment is purchased or sold or when the wrong quantity is purchased or sold. Trade errors frequently result in losses, which could be material. To the extent that an error is caused by a third party, we may seek to recover any losses associated with the error, although there may be contractual limitations on any third partys liability with respect to such error. We face other risks related to our Solana treasury strategy. Our Solana treasury strategy exposes us to various risks, including the following: Solana and other digital assets are subject to significant legal, commercial, regulatory, and technical uncertainty, and our Solana strategy subjects us to enhanced regulatory oversight; Regulatory changes could impact our ability to operate validators in the future should we decide to do so or receive rewards; Regulatory scrutiny of the Companys activities may increase, potentially limiting our operations; Potential litigation risks exist related to smart contract vulnerabilities, validator operations, or our business activities; Uncertainty around Solanas regulatory status may impact our ability to list on certain exchanges; Changes in political administration may not guarantee a favorable regulatory environment for Solana; and Increased regulatory focus on Layer-1 blockchains beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum could result in new compliance requirements. The foregoing factors could lead to disruption in the market for Solana, which could adversely affect the value of the Companys stock price. 28 SOL faces unique technical, governance and concentration risks that could materially affect its long-term viability. The Solana Network is a high-throughput Layer-1 blockchain with architectural features that differ significantly from other blockchains, such as Ethereum. While these features allow for rapid processing of transactions, they introduce risks that could adversely impact the value of SOL and the stability of the Solana Network. Historically, the Solana Network has suffered network outages, slow operations and validator coordination failures. If such challenges were to persist, the confidence of the Solana development community and its users will be adversely affected, which could cause a rapid decline in the value of SOL. In addition, Solanas consensus mechanism (PoH combined with PoS) is novel and relatively untested at a large scale over time. Structural flaws could emerge that require a fork, which may have an adverse impact on the Solana Network and our holdings. Solana validators are relatively small in number, which may lead to coordinated censorship. SOL requires high-performing computing hardware and internet connectivity to operate a validator node. These substantial infrastructure demands create a barrier of entry for validators, leading to a high concentration of validators that must be well capitalized. A significant portion of staked SOL tokens may be delegated to a few validators, resulting in a centralized block production environment. This concentration and centralization could lead to the risk of coordinated censorship, which validators or node operators could delay or exclude transactions or blocks from being confirmed and recorded on the blockchain, severely undermining neutrality and causing an erosion of the integrity of the Solana Network. Our Solana validator reward yield is expected to decline over time and could have a material adverse effect on our financial results. Solanas current protocol distributes rewards to validators based on a declining inflation model. This model reduces the total amount of Solana rewards available to distribute to validators by 15% each year until it reaches a long-term rate of 1.5%. A significant reduction in validator reward yield could negatively impact our business and results of operations. Our SOL treasury strategy is dependent on the Solana Foundation and core development team. The Solana Network is more centralized than other blockchain protocols such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. The Solana Foundation and a relatively small group of core developers play a significant role in the governance, maintenance, and technical direction of the Solana protocol. If one or more key individuals that is responsible for the core development or leadership were to depart, become incapacitated or otherwise decide not to participate, the health of the Solana network will be significantly affected and would result in a material adverse impact on the value of SOL. Further, if the Solana Foundation were to become subject to a reputational event, it could lead to reduced developer engagement and adversely affect the functionality and value of the Solana Network.