ICTS International (ICTSF) 20-F2023 FY Annual report (foreign)

ICTS International N.V. (“ICTS”) was registered at the Department of Justice in Amstelveen, Netherlands on October 9, 1992. ICTS and subsidiaries (collectively referred to as “ICTS” or the “Company”) operate in four reportable segments: (a) corporate (b) airport security (c) other aviation related services and (d) authentication technology. The corporate segment does not generate revenue and contains primarily non-operational expenses. The airport security segment provides security services primarily to airport authorities and airlines predominantly in Europe. The other aviation services segment provides services primarily to airlines and airport authorities in the United States of America. The authentication technology segment provides authentication services to financial and other companies, predominantly in the United States of America.

Selected data set forth below have been derived from the ICTS Consolidated Financial Statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“US GAAP”). The Selected Consolidated Financial Data set forth below should be read in conjunction with Item 5 - Operating and Financial Review and Prospects, the ICTS Consolidated Financial Statements and the Notes to those Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 18 in this Annual Report.

In the Netherlands wage tax, social security and VAT payments for the period March 2020 through September 2021 were postponed and are to be paid in 60 monthly installments beginning October 2022. The debt incurs annual interest starting July 2022 of 1% and increases every six months to a maximum of 4% starting on January 1, 2024 onwards. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company accumulated debt to the Dutch tax authorities of €24.9 million and €31.8 million ($27.3 million and $33.8 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022), respectively to the Dutch tax authorities.

In Germany, our employees were eligible for payroll support up to 60% of the employee’s payroll (on an individual basis) where the employees meet the support plan requirements. The Company applied for this support starting from April 2020 to June 2021.

In July 2019, the Company repaid $30 million to the entity related to the main shareholder, who provided the Company loans as convertible notes.

In November 2019, AU10TIX issued preferred shares to a new investor for a subscription price of $20 million in cash representing 7.401% of the outstanding share capital of AU10TIX and 7.143% of the outstanding share capital of AU10TIX on a fully diluted basis.

On June 28, 2021, TPG, Oak, GF GW LLC (“GF”) and AU10TIX, entered into a Sale and Purchase Agreement (the “SPA”), pursuant to which Oak and GF purchased preferred shares in AU10TIX from TPG.  In connection with the SPA, (i) such parties and ICTS entered into an amended and restated shareholders agreement (the “SHA”) and an amended and restated registration rights agreement (the “RRA”) and (ii) AU10TIX’s Articles of Association (the “Articles”) were amended by a deed of amendment. Following the completion of the sales and purchases contemplated by the SPA: (i) ICTS owns 68.69% of the outstanding share capital of AU10TIX in the form of Class B Ordinary Shares; (ii) Oak owns 12.87% of the outstanding share capital of AU10TIX in the form of New Series A Preferred Shares; (iii)  GF owned 10.93% of the outstanding share capital of AU10TIX in the form of New Series A Preferred Shares; and (iv) TPG owns 7.51% of the outstanding share capital of AU10TIX in the form of New Series A Preferred Shares.  In addition, AU10TIX may issue up to 1,000,000 Ordinary Shares under its existing employee stock option plan.

The following table summarizes certain balance sheet data for the Company at December 31, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020 and 2019:

The following table summarizes certain statement of operations data for the Company for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019:

You should carefully consider the risks described below regarding the business and the ownership of our shares. If any of the risks are realized, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be adversely affected, and the price of our common stock could decline significantly.

Our subsidiaries operate in many different jurisdictions in Europe, the United States of America and Asia and are therefore subject to the different labor laws of such jurisdictions. Any changes in such laws, as an example, the establishment or change of minimum wages, could have an adverse effect on the business of the Company.

In addition, some of our employees are covered by collective bargaining agreements with unions. Such collective agreement detail, inter alia, financial and non-financial entitlements to our employees that effect our financial results. Relationship with unions, including work stoppages or changes in work rules, could have an adverse impact on our financial results.

In some jurisdictions and subject to legislation related to employees’ entitlements during sick leave, increase in employees’ sick rate could have an adverse impact on our financial results. Lack of manpower and/or employees’ turnover may lead to additional costs. As an example, recruitment and training cost, and therefore increase in employees’ turnover rate could have an adverse impact on our financial results.

If any of such changes and/or circumstances have a financial impact on the Company and the Company is not able to fully adjust its fees for its services to accommodate such changes and/or circumstances, of which there is no assurance, there could be a material adverse effect on our business.

Further, escalating costs of providing employee benefits and other labor issues may lead to labor disputes and disruption of our business.

From time to time lawsuits have been commenced against the Company or its subsidiaries usually claiming injury or damage to property. In addition, labor related issues, such as employee dismissal, may lead to labor disputes. Most of these claims are covered by insurance. In the event such claims are not covered by the insurance, there could be an adverse impact on the Company.

Our revenues are primarily provided from services pursuant to contracts, which are cancellable on short notice at any time with or without cause. We cannot assure you that existing clients will decide not to terminate our contracts or that we won’t fail to renew contracts. In some jurisdictions and operations, contracts are subject to a tender detailing, inter alia, participation terms, cap pricing and award criteria. In addition, consolidation in the airline industry could also result in a loss of customers. Any such termination, failure to renew a contract with us and/or failure in tenders could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. If our relationships with our major customers are impaired then there may be a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. Our major customers include airports in Europe and major airlines servicing the United States of America. The aviation industry might encounter difficulties and this may have a material adverse impact on our business.

Our business is affected by numerous factors outside of our control, such as terrorist attacks and acts of war. Future terrorist attacks against the countries where the Company has a presence, rumors or threats of war, actual conflicts involving those countries or their allies, or military or trade disruptions affecting customers may materially adversely affect operations. Our facilities and equipment could be direct targets or indirect casualties of terrorist attacks and acts of war. Strategic targets such as high-technology aviation security assets, passenger terminals or aircrafts may be at greater risk of future terrorist attacks than other targets. It is possible that any, or a combination, of these occurrences could have a material impact on the business of the Company, on cash flows, results of operations, financial condition, business reputation, claims etc. In addition, insurance premiums for some or all of our current coverages could increase dramatically, or certain coverages may not be available to us in the future.

The Company incurred net income (loss) of $10.6 million, $(5.2) million and $41.3 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The 2022 and 2021 profits (losses) include special grants provided by different governments as COVID-19 assistance to the company. The Company has a shareholders’ deficit of $2.6 million and $10.4 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. If we are unable to obtain new service contracts, increase revenues, increase profitability and reduce the Company’s shareholders deficit, our financial condition and results of operations might be affected and our share price may decline.

Our financing activities have consisted in the past of loans from banks and other third parties. Currently, two of the Company’s subsidiaries have a line of credit and a loan facility, while the Company is looking for additional lines of credit for its other subsidiaries. There is no assurance that third parties will provide loans to the Company and even if loans are made, there is no assurance that the terms will be favorable to the Company.

Our success largely depends on the services of our senior management and executive personnel. The loss of the services of one or more of such key personnel could have an adverse impact on our operations. Our success is also dependent upon our ability to hire and retain additional qualified executive personnel. We cannot assure you that we will be able to attract, assimilate and retain personnel with the attributes necessary to execute our strategy. We cannot assure you that one or more of our executives will not leave our employment and either work for a competitor or otherwise compete with us.

As part of our technology business strategy we develop technological solutions and systems for financial and other industries and seek other revenue producing business and business opportunities. We cannot assure you that we will be able to develop new systems or develop systems that are commercially viable. Our success in developing and marketing our systems will also depend on our ability to adapt to rapid technology changes in the industry and to integrate such changes into our systems. We cannot assure you that we will be successful in our attempts to change or implement our business strategy. We may not have the expertise to be successful in developing our business in areas that are not related to the security industry. We compete in a highly competitive industry and our competitors may be more successful in developing new technology and achieving market acceptance of their products.

From time to time, the Company may seek to acquire or invest in other business, which may or may not be related to the business of the Company. No assurance can be given that the Company will acquire or invest in any companies. If the Company decides to acquire or invest, no assurance can be given that such acquisition or investment will be successful.

We rely on computer systems and information technology in our business and have established security programs for protection. We might be the target of attempted cyber and other security threats and despite our security measures, our systems might be vulnerable to interruption or damage from computer hackings, viruses, worms or other destructive or disruptive software, process breakdowns, denial of service attacks, social engineering or other malicious activities or any combination of the foregoing. The Company has in place policies and procedures to identify and manage cybersecurity risks. We must continuously monitor and develop our information technology networks and  infrastructure to prevent, detect, address and mitigate the risk of unauthorized access, misuse, computer viruses and other events that could have a security impact. Insider or employee cyber and security threats are increasingly a concern for all companies including ours. It is not possible to determine the cost to the Company in the event of a cyber security incident because costs are a function of the size and nature of the incident. For more information see item 5 – Operating and Financial Review and Prospects in this 20F report for additional information on cyber security.

Competition in the aviation security and aviation related services industry as well as in the technology industry is intense. Many of our competitors have greater financial, technical and marketing resources. Our competitors might develop and market alternative systems and technologies that may have greater functionality or be more cost effective than the services we provide or the systems that we develop. If our competitors develop such systems, we may not be able to successfully market our systems. Even if we are able to develop systems with greater functionality which are more cost effective than those developed by our competitors, we may not be able to achieve market acceptance of our systems.

The Company is currently engaged in direct operations in numerous countries and is therefore subject to risks associated with international operations (including economic and/or political instability, conflict, trade restrictions, wars and striker). Such risks can cause the Company to have significant difficulties in connection with the sale or provision of its services in international markets and have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Our R&D facility is located in Israel and currently remain largely unaffected following the war declared in Israel and the military activity in the region. However, the duration, severity and global implications of these and other geopolitical conflicts that may arise in the future, cannot be predicted at this time and could have an effect on our business as impact of our employees who are military reservists being called to active military duty, and the impact of the war on the economic, social and political stability of Israel.

Industries on which we operate are subject to extensive governmental regulation, the impact of which is difficult to predict. In the past, the Aviation and Transportation Security Act (the “Security Act”) has had a significant negative impact on our aviation security business in the USA. In addition, our ability to successfully market new systems will be dependent upon government regulations over which we have no control. Any existing or new regulation may cause us to incur increased expenses or impose substantial liability upon the Company. The likelihood of such new legislation is difficult to predict.

From time to time, personal identity databases and technologies utilizing such databases have been the focus of organizations and individuals seeking to curtail or eliminate the use of personal identity information technologies on the grounds that personal information and these technologies may be used to diminish personal privacy rights. In the event that such initiatives result in restrictive legislation, the market for our products may be adversely affected. In addition, in the event that the Company fails as a result of legislation designed to protect privacy rights, the market for our products may be adversely affected.

A license to operate is required from the airport authority in the airports in which we currently operate. The loss of, or failure to obtain, a license to operate in one or more of such airports could result in the loss of or the inability to compete for contracts in the airports in which we have licenses or limit our growth in new airports.

Poor economic conditions could adversely affect our business. Deterioration in the global economic environment may result in decreased demand for our services. Weakening economic conditions could also affect our customers, which may result in redirection of their request for our services.

In the last years, record levels of inflation have resulted in significant volatility and disruptions in the global economy. In response to rising inflation, central banks in the markets in which we operate, including the United States Federal Reserve, have tightened their monetary policies and raised interest rates, and such measures may continue if there is a period of sustained heightened inflation. Higher interest rates and volatility in financial markets could lead to additional economic uncertainty or recession. Increased inflation rates have increased our operating costs, mostly labor costs. There is no assurance that we will be able to promptly increase our pricing to offset our increased costs, or that our operations will not be materially impacted by rising inflation and its broader effects on the markets in which we operate in the future. We have implemented certain measures in response to such inflation pressures, including negotiating with major customers reimbursement for salary increase following the inflation adjustments in the employees’ salaries. There is no assurance that we will be fully or partly successful in those negotiations. In addition, the Company has a loan facility and a line of credit for two of its subsidiaries. The increased interest rates will increase the Company's financing costs. We are continuing to monitor the effects of inflation on our business performance and financial condition. However, we cannot accurately predict whether we will be able to effectively and timely mitigate their impact on our business.

A substantial portion of our revenue is generated in foreign countries. We usually retain our income in local currency at the location the funds are received. Since our financial statements are presented in United States dollars, any significant fluctuation in the currency exchange rate between such currency and the United States dollar would affect our results of operations and financial condition.

The market price of our common stock may from time to time be significantly affected by a large number of factors, including among others, variations in our operating results, the depth and liquidity of the trading market for our shares and differences between actual results of operations and the results anticipated by investors and securities analysts. Many of the factors which affect the market price of our common stock are outside of our control and may not even be directly related to us. The market price of our common stock may be volatile and the volume may be low, which may make it more difficult for you to resell your shares.

As of May 1st, 2024, the MacPherson Trust, its beneficiaries and Mr. M.J. Atzmon, own or control together approximately 76.6% of our issued and outstanding common stock (excluding conversion rights). Mr. Atzmon, the Chairman of the Supervisory Board, disclaims any benefit or interest in the MacPherson Trust. As a result of such ownership and conversion rights, the MacPherson Trust and its beneficiaries together with Mr. Atzmon are able to significantly influence and/or control all matters requiring shareholder approval including the election of directors and approval of significant corporate transactions. Such concentration may also have the effect of delaying or preventing a change in control. Their interests could conflict with yours. In addition, significant sales of shares held by them could have a negative effect on our stock price.

There is no assurance the Company will pay any cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future.

The ability of shareholders of ICTS (Shareholders) to bring actions against ICTS, the members of the management board of ICTS (“Management Board” and its members “Managing Directors”) and the members of the supervisory board of ICTS (“Supervisory Board” and its members “Supervisory Directors”) or to enforce liabilities predicated upon non-Dutch laws may be limited.

The Company is a public company with limited liability (naamloze vennootschap met beperkte aansprakelijkheid) incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands. The corporate affairs of ICTS are governed by the articles of association of ICTS (the Articles of Association) and by the laws governing companies incorporated in the Netherlands. Significant number of ICTS’ assets and activities are located outside the United States of America. In addition, Managing Directors and some of the Supervisory Directors are residents of countries other than the United States of America.

The United States of America and the Netherlands currently do not have a treaty providing for reciprocal recognition and enforcement of judgments, other than arbitration awards, in civil and commercial matters. In addition, the countries of residence of the Managing Directors, the Supervisory Directors and of the Company’s employees may also not have a treaty providing for the reciprocal recognition and enforcement of judgments. Consequently, a final judgment for payment rendered by an US court that is enforceable in the United States of America, whether or not predicated solely upon US securities laws, will not be recognized and enforced by the Dutch courts. In order to obtain a judgment which is enforceable in the Netherlands, the claim must be relitigated before a competent Dutch court. A Dutch court will, under current practice, generally grant the same judgment without relitigating on the merits if the judgment by the US court (i) results from proceedings compatible with the Dutch concept of due process, (ii) does not contravene public policy (openbare orde) of the Netherlands, (iii) has been based on an internationally acceptable ground and (iv) is not incompatible with a judgment rendered between the same parties by a Dutch court, or with an earlier judgment rendered between the same parties by a non-Dutch court in a dispute that concerns the same subject and is based on the same cause, provided that the earlier judgment qualifies for recognition in the Netherlands. Dutch courts may deny the recognition and enforcement of punitive damages or other awards. Moreover, a Dutch court may reduce the amount of damages granted by a US court and recognize damages only to the extent that they are necessary to compensate actual losses or damages. Enforcement and recognition of judgments of US courts in the Netherlands governed exclusively by the Dutch Civil Procedure Code (Wetboek van Burgerlijke Rechtsvordering) and relevant case law.

The rights of Shareholders and the responsibilities of Managing Directors and Supervisory Directors may be different from the rights and obligations of shareholders in companies governed by the laws of US jurisdictions. Such differences include, among others, voting requirements for important shareholder resolutions regarding capital measures, corporate reorganizations and certain shareholder rights, such as assertion of liability claims. In the performance of its duties the Management Board and Supervisory Board are required by Dutch law to solely act in the best interests of the Company, which in principle is determined by the continued success of the company with a view to sustainable long-term value creation. It is generally accepted that, in discharging this duty, the Management Board and Supervisory Board must take into account the reasonable interests of all the company’s stakeholders, including its shareholders, employees and creditors. There will generally not be one prevailing stakeholder interest and so directors will often have discretion in balancing those interests. It is possible that some of these parties will have interests that are different from, or in addition to, the interests of the Shareholders.

ICTS is a public limited liability company organized under the laws of The Netherlands since 1992. Our offices are located at Walaardt Sacréstraat 425-5, 1117 BM Schiphol-Oost, The Netherlands and its telephone number is +31-20-347-1077.

History and Development of the Company:

The Company provides aviation security through its subsidiary I-SEC International Security B.V. and its subsidiaries.

In 2001 and 2002, ICTS sold its European aviation security operations in two stages for an aggregate purchase price of $103 million. As a result of the sale ICTS divested itself at that time from most of its European operations.

In February 2005 the Company decided to re-enter the European aviation security market. In March 2005, the Company established a wholly owned subsidiary, I-SEC International Security B.V. and Subsidiaries (“I-SEC”), under which all the airport security activities provided by ICTS are operated. Thereafter, I-SEC established new subsidiaries throughout Europe and the Far East.

The Company provides other aviation related services in the United States of America through its subsidiary Huntleigh U.S.A. (“Huntleigh”).

Our technology business is primarily involved in the services of authentication security to financial and other companies, mainly in the United States of America and Europe through its subsidiary (68.69%) AU10TIX.

ICTS provides the following services through its subsidiaries as follows:

I-SEC provides mainly aviation security services at airports in Europe and the Far East.

Huntleigh provides for the most part non-security other aviation related services in the United States of America.

AU10TIX develops technological systems and provides authentication solutions for financial and other companies.

We are currently pursuing the following business strategy:

Aviation Security and Critical Infrastructure Operations in Europe and the Far East

Through the I-SEC subsidiaries, we supply aviation and other high-end security services to airports, airlines, governments and critical infrastructure facilities in Europe and the Far East. Currently, I-SEC provides aviation security services to two out of the five largest airports in Europe. I-SEC is focused on the critical infrastructure operations in the countries where we are present, next to our core business (airports, airlines, cargo). I-SEC is continuously looking for ways to extend its operations mostly in existing locations.

Other Aviation Related Services in the U.S.A.

Through Huntleigh we provide limited security services and non-security other aviation related services in the U.S.A. Huntleigh is continuously looking for ways to extend its operations in new and existing locations.

Developing Authentication Technologies

Through AU10TIX, we are focusing on developing authentication technologies in order to provide authentication services to financial and other markets worldwide. AU10TIX is continuously looking for ways to extend the services it provides worldwide both to new and existing customers.

I-SEC specializes in the provision of advanced aviation security services worldwide. These include services in 4 fields: Airports, Airlines, Cargo and General (High-risk) Security. Furthermore, I-SEC offers Consulting, Training, Auditing and Technology in all those fields. 

The Company benefits from the broad know-how and international operational experience it has acquired in more than three decades of intensive activity in the field of aviation security. I-SEC’s management and key personnel are widely recognized in the industry as developers of pioneering aviation security concepts, methods and technologies, focusing on airport security and on high-risk environments. With its highly skilled and experienced professional staff supported by proprietary technological innovations, I-SEC is ideally positioned to deliver cost-effective aviation security solutions and services to airports and airlines with varying operational volumes and needs.

I-SEC has operations in The Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Italy, Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Norway. Additionally, I-SEC currently operates at four major airports in Japan providing airline services such as passenger handling services, secondary screening and training to airlines.

Building on its management’s strong reputation and on its broad know-how and experience, I-SEC is committed to providing its clients with security services at the highest professional level, while offering unprecedented cost savings. The Company constantly upgrades its services, trains its employees and applies a state-of-the-art quality management system in order to ensure that amendments in regulatory requirements as well as changes in the threat environment and developing needs are at all times respected. 

Related to airports, I-SEC offers a wide range of services. They include Security Screening of passengers as well as hold baggage, vehicles and employees performed at the highest level for its clients. The Company trains its staff to perform screening at checkpoints, both efficiently and effectively, fully complying with regulatory and client requirements on the one hand and focusing on hospitality and customer service requirements on the other hand.

Upon clients’ requirements, the services may be extended to cover as well Behavior detection on crowds and queues while maintaining passenger privacy and confidentiality at all times in accordance with all relevant regulations issued by both US and EU regulators. Furthermore, I-SEC is actively engaged in delivering Perimeter guarding, CCTV surveillance and Vehicle marshalling if required.

Airlines:

Delivering services to airlines requires a high proficiency in Security services combined with Hospitality requirements of the client, operational processing and knowledge of regulatory requirements from international authorities (e.g. TSA) and authorities at the location of the operations. I-SEC is well equipped to deliver a wide variety of such integrated services linking security with customer service. I-SEC’s performance is based on numerous years of experience and expertise and fully complies with all local, national and international regulatory requirements. They as well include many customer service functions enabling airlines to improve customer services while reducing manpower needs and operational costs.

General (high-risk) Security:

The requirements especially in the EU for a higher degree of security in so-called Critical Infrastructure has led I-SEC to offer its services in these areas as well. I-SEC delivers a variety of services which are similar to those offered to airports and airlines stemming from a different legal requirement and based on a different regulatory framework. I-SEC’s professionalism and experience in the said fields puts it in an advantageous position to also offer general security services requested by clients all over the world.

I-SEC’s Training Programs are the product of over 30 years of expertise and experience in the development of training materials covering every aspect of airline and airport as well as cargo security operations and their implementation worldwide. They are similarly suitable to be implemented in Critical Infrastructure facilities and for High-End guarding services.

Aviation security and security awareness training courses are offered, which are modular in nature and are adapted to meet the specific needs of each client. The courses are constantly being updated to ensure that they cover all relevant material relating to new regulations, new threats, etc. Many of the courses include simulations, role play, situational exercises, case studies and on-the-job training. Sophisticated training aids are employed to make the training experience more efficient and interesting, thus ensuring optimal results.

The identification of the risks relevant to the particular site or operation, and the grading according to their potential damage and probability enables I-SEC to develop security concepts and design a security system that will effectively deal with these risks. I-SEC security experts possess broad experience in the design and development of modular aviation security systems, customized to meet local needs and complying with international standards. For over three decades I-SEC specialists have been assisting their clients implement and assimilate proven work methods and security solutions designed on the basis of extensive know-how and experience and tailored to meet their specific needs. 

Furthermore, I-SEC’s expert security consultants specialize in the performance of airport security surveys and audits. Surveys can range from individual aspects of airport security to comprehensive, all-encompassing surveys. Special attention is put on the verification of compliance with applicable regulation and the presentation of recommendations regarding any amendments that may be required. As security systems are only effective if they continue to address existing and anticipated threats and to fully comply with international, national and local regulatory requirements, periodical aviation security audits are of vital importance. I-SEC experts possess vast international experience in the performance of such audits and the recommended steps that must be taken to ensure full compliance and suitability of the aviation security system.

In the interest of enabling clients to maintain the required level of security while reducing operational costs, I-SEC utilizes several innovative, proprietary means.

NAPS is a sophisticated IT-system that enables pre-departure analysis of customer information and is designed to help filter airline customers in a faster and more efficient manner. It was developed based on the extensive experience and knowledge accumulated by the Company’s professionals and in accordance with European and US regulations. Furthermore, the tool was updated recently to capture the new privacy regulations.

X-Check and I-Check support airline staff, security or filtering agents with customer processing. Using NAPS to perform automated customer filtering for different reasons, like security vetting, reducing in-admissible and optimizing customer flow by reducing touchpoints. The application turns a tablet or cell phone into an extremely fast and accurate passport and barcode scanner. Once the X-Check tablet app is connected to the X-Check infrastructure, a wide variety of functionalities including NAPS customer filtering, becomes available guiding the airline, security and or filtering agents and supervisors intuitively through the features and functionalities.

As of December 31, 2023 Huntleigh provides limited aviation security services and other aviation related services at approximately 31 airports in 22 states.

The limited security services provided by Huntleigh involve the following:

Each of the non– security services involve one of the following specific job classifications:

Agent Services for Airlines

Agent services include vendor behind counters and baggage service (BSO). Although an agent is a Huntleigh employee, the employee is considered a representative of specific airlines.

Guard services involve guarding secured areas including aircraft. Huntleigh also provides guard services to schools, places of worship, homeowners association, events, etc. In addition, Huntleigh is offering and providing camera security monitoring services.

Queue Monitors

Huntleigh provides queue monitors assisting passengers before the checkpoint.

Aircraft Cleaning

Huntleigh provides employees who perform aircraft cleaning services such as the following:

Huntleigh provides janitorial services to airline airport offices, airline terminal areas, airline gates and office buildings.

Huntleigh provides shuttle services to airline crews between hotel and airport.

A skycap assists passengers with their luggage. Located at the curb side of the check-in at airports, a skycap checks in passengers’ luggage and meets security requirements established by the TSA to screen passengers. A skycap also assists arriving passengers with transporting luggage from the baggage carousel to ground transportation or other designated areas.

A skycap also may transport checked baggage from the curb side check-in to the airline counter. Concierge Service involves a skycap monitoring the baggage carousel to ensure that passengers do not remove luggage not belonging to them.

Wheelchair attendants transport passengers through the airport in airline and/or Company owned wheelchairs and may also operate electric carts for transporting passengers through the airport. Working closely with the attendants are dispatch agents who monitor requests and assignments for wheelchairs and dispatch the attendants as needed utilizing various wheelchair dispatch technologies.

Baggage Handling Services

Huntleigh provides employees who move passengers’ baggage from the check- in counter to screening machines and/or vice versa, as well as moving oversized baggage from check-in to appropriate bag belts as well as in some cases move the baggage which was not collected by passengers to a Baggage Service Office (BSO).

Huntleigh provides VIP meet and greet services of assisting passengers with the transition through the airport on arrival and / or departure.

In December 2019, Aviation Mobility Solutions Inc. a subsidiary of Huntleigh, was formed in order to find, evaluate and deliver new and innovative products for passengers with restricted mobility. Equipment examples are: E-mobby, Multi Mobby and Mobby wheelchairs.

AU10TIX, an identity management company, is on a mission to obliterate fraud and further a more secure and inclusive world. The company provides critical, modular solutions to verify and link physical and digital identities so businesses and their customers can confidently connect. Over the past decade AU10TIX has become the preferred partner of major global brands for customer onboarding and customer verification automation and continues to work on the edge of what’s next for identity’s role in society. AU10TIX’s proprietary technology provides results in less than 8 seconds, enabling businesses to onboard customers faster while preventing fraud, meeting compliance mandates and, importantly, promoting trust and safety.

AU10TIX stands at the forefront of identity management, dedicated to stamping out fraud and building a safer business environment. With decades of mature technology, our award-winning and innovative products offer modular, cutting-edge solutions to verify and link physical and digital identities so businesses and their customers can confidently connect. Our scalable and flexible technology adapts in real-time to the shifting dynamics of fraud, offering a versatile solution for any business, industry, and use case. Delivering an exceptional user experience, AU10TIX's system achieves verification results within seconds, driving higher conversion rates by meeting diverse customer onboarding and verification needs with precision. As a trusted partner for global brands, our commitment to trust, safety, and compliance is unwavering, enabling businesses to grow confidently with the assurance that every identity challenge they face is met.

Product & Technology

AU10TIX’s modular SaaS offering for identity verification and fraud prevention automates the capture,  extraction and validation from physical and digital ID documents. AU10TIX speeds up customer screening and enrollment while enhancing security and identity fraud prevention with fully automated (i.e., no data entry or back-office dependencies) multi-level fraud protection, counterfeiting and risk factor detection and higher conversion rates of borderline quality images. AU10TIX technology, in addition, is data-rich and has fast-response exception reporting and multi-lingual document content support while providing rapid processing (typically 8 seconds or less for the complete verification process).

AU10TIX technology is designed for security-sensitive and business-sensitive environments such as airports, border control, financial services, etc, which require hi-resolution document imaging, auto image optimization, auto-classification of documents up to version level, extraction of readable + encoded content including MRZ lines and barcodes. The automated technology provides real-time verification of both data and visual across , multi-factor identity authentication immediate detailed exception alerts, the ability to integrate with chip readers and barcode readers, integrate with biometric inputs and to query date against databases or watch-lists.

AU10TIX’s core IDV engine along with products like the Identity Verification Suite, KYB solution, and Digital services, automates all essential components of KYC and KYB initiation in regulated markets including ID document authentication, face matching, Proof-Of-Address processing, identity data verification and screening (eIDVS), and business and UBOs verification.

AU10TIX enables fully automated ID image recognition and optimization, pre-screening, content retrieval, forgery, counterfeiting collateral risk flag detection and exception reporting. Customers are also offered SDK packages to improve and control ID and face image capturing by customers.

This portfolio of services enables service providers to rapidly automate customer onboarding and AML/KYC/ KYB processes.

AU10TIX incorporates advanced AI algorithms and advanced neural networks that increase the accuracy of analyzing images at a broad range of image quality levels for various types of official ID documents. The system is designed to handle images that originate from any common imaging device including mobile phones, tablets, computer webcams, etc.

AU10TIX is relevant for a variety of commercial and government global markets many of which are required to comply with KYC/AML regulations. The technology can be integrated with additional Identity Data Verification and Screening (eIDV/eIDVS) as a client or 3rd party augmented service or seamlessly integrated into AU10TIX’s ID authentication and POA handling components, enabling automated submission of customer data to the required person and address verification services, as well as screening services such as PEPs & Sanctions, watchlists, etc, through a single API call.

Key markets for AU10TIX are financial services including banking, insurance, payments, wallets, money transfer, lending, remittance, online investments, trading and forex, cryptocurrency exchanges, rental services, sharing economy, professional services, telecommunications and social media, etc.

As of December 31, 2023, the Company owns less than 1% of the issued and outstanding share capital of Manuka, Inc. (“MNKA”). MNKA is a company incorporated in Israel engaged in developing and manufacturing skincare products based on Manuka honey and bee venom. The market value of the Company’s investment in MNKA as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 is $0.0 million and $0.1 million, respectively. The Company evaluated the stock price of MNKA but as MNKA share price is low, the number of shares that are being traded is low and as MNKA still does not have any material revenue or profitable operations, the Company determined that the value of the investment is impaired and accordingly, valued the investment at zero.

In April 2018, the Company signed a Joint Venture Agreement with a South Korean Company in order to establish a Joint Venture Company (“JVC”) and to provide aviation security and non-security services in South Korea. Each one of the parties held 50% (fifty percent) of the JVC’s equity. In January 1, 2023, the Company sold its part in the JVC to the South Korean Company for an amount of €25 thousand ($27 thousand as of December 31, 2022). At December 31, 2022 the Company wrote off $0.1 million of the investment to match the value of the investment in its books to the sale price.

In January 2019, the Company invested an amount of $0.1 million in Mesh Technologies, Inc. (“Mesh”), a company incorporated in the USA. The investment represents less than 1% of the issued and outstanding share capital of Mesh. Mesh is a technology company providing cross-border payments technology by innovating on the existing payment rails of established card networks available in the market. As Mesh is a private, closely-held company, there is no active market for this investment. Therefore, the Company measures the investment at cost minus impairment. In December 2021, the Company sold approximately 25% of its investment for a total amount of $0.2 million and recognized similar gain from the sale.

In December 2019, the Company invested an amount of $1.8 million in Arrow Ecology & Engineering Overseas (1999) Ltd (“Arrow”), a limited company incorporated in Israel. Arrow develops and operates a sustainable green process to recycle mixed and sorted municipal solid waste. Arrow is in discussions to build plants in various locations. The Company purchased few types of shares representing 22.6% of Arrow’s equity for an amount of $22 thousand and shareholders loans were purchased for a price of $1.7 million ($4.1 million stated value less $2.4 million allowance for credit losses which have not changed since the acquisition). The Company uses the equity method for this investment. During the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company recognized its share in Arrow losses in the amount of $0 million, $0 million and $1.0 million, respectively, from this investment.

The Company suspended its use of the equity method to accounting for this investment in 2023 after its investment balance was reduced to zero.

The Company has an agreement with an entity related to its main shareholder, according to which, if the value of the investment decreases, the related party entity has guaranteed to repurchase this full investment at a minimum amount of $1.8 million. The guarantee is effective immediately as of the date of purchase and terminates on January 1, 2025. Some Directors, managers and shareholders of Arrow are related parties of the Company.

In March 2020, the Company invested an amount of $0.1 million in GreenFox Logistics, LLC. (“GreenFox”), a company incorporated in the USA. The investment was done as SAFE investment (Simple Agreement for Future Equity). GreenFox is an on-demand delivery/moving/transportation company. As GreenFox is a private, closely held company, there is no active market for this investment. Therefore, the Company measures the investment at cost minus impairment.

In August 2020, the Company invested an amount of $0.1 million in SardineAI Corp (“SardineAI”), a company incorporated in the USA. In return, the Company received preferred shares representing less than 1% of SardineAI equity. SardineAI is a Fraud Prevention-as-a-Service (FaaS) platform for Digital businesses to detect frauds and financial crimes. As SardineAI is a private, closely held company, there is no active market for this investment. Therefore, the Company measures the investment at cost minus impairment. In January 2023, the Company sold approximately 85% of its investment for a total amount of $0.8 million.

In December 2021, March 2022 and December 2022, the Company invested a total amount of $38 thousand in Silver Circle One, a capital fund which aims to invest in private emerging companies with focus on consumer, commerce and technology companies. The company committed to invest up to $0.1 million on the pool. As Silver Circle One is a private, closely-held fund, there is no active market for this investment. Therefore, the company measures the investment at cost minus impairment.

In December 2021, the Company invested an amount of $0.1 million in Justt Fintech Ltd (“Justt”), a company incorporated in Israel. As of December 31, 2023, the investment represented less than 1% of the issued and outstanding share capital of Justt Fintech Ltd. Justt is a technology company which fully automated chargeback disputes on behalf of online merchants. As Justt is a private, closely-held company, there is not active market for this investment. Therefore, the Company measures the investment at cost minus impairment.

In March 2022, the Company invested an amount of $25 thousand in Nilus OS Ltd. (“Nilus”), a company incorporated in Israel. As of December 31, 2023, the investment represented less than 1% of the issued and outstanding share capital of Nilus. Nilus is a company that automates payment and financial workflows for platforms that involve transfers of money. As Nilus is a private, closely-held company, there is no active market for this investment. Therefore, the Company measures the investment at cost minus impairment.

Revenue generated from customers by geographical area based on the geographical location of the customers invoicing address is as follows:

Revenue in Germany

Our revenue in Germany during the years 2023, 2022 and 2021 totaled $114.2 million (26% of total revenue), $111.8 million (34% of total revenue) and $126.4 million (39% of total revenue), respectively.

Our revenue in the United States of America during the years 2023, 2022 and 2021 totaled $99.7 million (23% of total revenue), $88.3 million (27% of total revenue) and $94.7 million (29% of total revenue), respectively.

Our revenue in The Netherlands during the years 2023, 2022 and 2021 totaled $101.5 million (24% of total revenue), $63.8 million (20% of total revenue) and $52.2 million (16% of total revenue), respectively.

Our revenue in Spain during the years 2023, 2022 and 2021 totaled $82.2 million (19% of total revenue), $39.4 million (12% of total revenue) and $30.9 million (10% of total revenue), respectively.

Our revenue in other locations during the years 2023, 2022 and 2021 totaled $33.9 million (8% of total revenue), $21.5 million (7% of total revenue) and $20.7 million (6% of total revenue), respectively.

Revenue from two customers represented 34% of total revenue during the year ended December 31, 2023, of which customer A accounted for 20% and customer B accounted for 14% of total revenue. Accounts receivable from these two customers represented 20% of total accounts receivable as of December 31, 2023.

Revenue from two customers represented 52% of total revenue during the year ended December 31, 2022, of which customer A accounted for 34% and customer C accounted for 18% of total revenue. Accounts receivable from these two customers represented 31% of total accounts receivable as of December 31, 2022.

Our aviation security activities are subject to various regulations imposed by authorities and various local and federal agencies having jurisdiction in the serviced area. The Company, on behalf of its clients, is responsible for adherence to such regulations relating to certain security aspects of their activities. The Company is also responsible to prevent passengers without proper travel documentation from boarding a flight, thereby avoiding fines otherwise imposed on its clients by immigration authorities. We are subject to random periodic tests by government authorities with regard to the professional level of its services and training. Any failure to pass such a test may result in the loss of a contract or a license to perform services or a fine or both. In the airports in which we operate, a license to operate is required from the respective airport authority. The Company currently holds the licenses required to operate in such locations.

Our business is not affected directly or indirectly in any way by existing and pending, local, state, regional, federal or international legal requirements and agreements related to climate change.

The following are the active subsidiaries of ICTS as of December 31, 2023:

I-SEC Global Security B.V. (The Netherlands - 100%) and its wholly-owned subsidiaries:

I-SEC Benelux Holdings B.V. (Netherlands - 100%) which holds the shares of:

I-SEC Spain Holdings B.V. (Netherlands - 100%) which holds the shares of:

I-SEC Nordic Holding B.V. (Netherlands – 100%) which holds the shares of:

I-SEC German Holding B.V. (Netherlands – 100%) which holds the shares of:

I-SEC German Special Operations B.V. (Netherlands – 100%)

I-SEC Tech B.V. (Netherlands – 100%)

I-SEC Italia s.r.l. (Italy - 100%), which holds the shares of:

I-SEC Japan K.K. (Japan - 100%)

Huntleigh USA Corporation (Missouri, USA - 100%)

Aviation Mobility Solutions, Inc (Texas, USA – 100%)

AU10TIX Limited (Cyprus – 100%) which holds the shares of:

*I-SEC German Aviation Holdings 1 B.V. is a limited partner (100%) of I-SEC Deutsche Luftsicherheit SE&Co.KG (Germany)

**I-SEC Verwaltungs SE is a general partner (0%) of I-SEC Deutsche Luftsicherheit SE&Co.KG (Germany).

The Company leases certain premises under various operating leases. Maturities of operating lease liabilities as of December 31, 2023 were as follows (in millions):

Lease expenses for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 are $6.5 million, $6.2 million and $6.0 million, respectively.

This section contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 concerning our business, operations and financial condition. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this annual report on Form 20-F regarding ICTS’s strategy, future operations, financial position, costs, prospects, plans and objectives of management are forward-looking statements. When used in this annual report on Form 20-F the words “expect”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “plan”, “believe”, “seek”, “estimate”, and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Because these forward- looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements for a number of important reasons, including those discussed under “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this annual report on Form 20-F.

We cannot guarantee any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. The forward-looking statements contained in this annual report on Form 20-F represent managements’ expectations as of the date of this annual report on Form 20-F and should not be relied upon as representing ICTS’s expectations as of any other date. Subsequent events and developments will cause management’s expectations to change. However, while we may elect to update these forward-looking statements, ICTS specifically disclaims any obligation to do so, even if its expectations change.

The Company operates in four reportable segments (a) corporate (b) airport security (c) other aviation related services and (d) authentication technology. Until December 31, 2021 the Company used to present the results of the airport security and the other aviation related services as one consolidated segment. The corporate segment does not generate revenue and contains primarily non-operational expenses. The airport security segment provides security services primarily to airport authorities and airlines predominantly in Europe. The other aviation related services segment provides services primarily to airlines and airport authorities in the United States of America. The authentication technology provides authentication services to financial and other companies, predominantly in the United States of America. All inter-segment transactions are eliminated in consolidation. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as the accounting policies of the Company as a whole.

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Our critical accounting policies that require the use of judgment and estimates are: (a) valuation allowance of deferred income taxes and (b) determination of the estimated fair value of the AU10TIX preferred shares conversion in 2021. Please refer to Note 2 of ICTS’s consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2023 for a summary of ICTS’s significant accounting policies.

The Company accounts for income taxes using the liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is established when realization of net deferred tax assets is not considered more likely than not.

Uncertain income tax positions are determined based upon the likelihood of the positions being sustained upon examination by taxing authorities. The benefit of a tax position is recognized in the consolidated financial statements in the period during which management believes it is more likely than not that the position will not be sustained. Income tax positions taken are not offset or aggregated with other positions. Income tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold are measured as the largest amount of income tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely of being realized if challenged by the applicable taxing authority. The portion of the benefits associated with income tax positions taken that exceeds the amount measured is reflected as income taxes payable.

When the Company or its subsidiaries issues preferred shares, it considers the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 480 –”Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity” (Topic 480) in order to determine whether the preferred share should be classified as a liability. If the instrument is not within the scope of Topic 480, the Company or its subsidiaries further analyses the instruments characteristics in order to determine whether it should be classified within temporary equity (mezzanine) or within permanent equity in accordance with the provisions of Topic 480-10-S99. AU10TIX redeemable convertible preferred shares are not mandatorily or currently redeemable. However, it includes a liquidation or deemed liquidation events that would constitute a redemption event that is outside of the Company’s control. As such, all shares of redeemable preferred shares have been presented outside of permanent equity. The Company has not adjusted the carrying values of the redeemable preferred shares to the deemed liquidation values of such shares since a liquidation event was not probable at any of the balance sheet dates. Subsequent adjustments to increase or decrease the carrying values to the ultimate liquidation values will be made only if and when it becomes probable that such a liquidation event will occur.

Following the SPA on June 28, 2021, the Company has assessed whether the change in the terms of the AU10TIX Preferred Shares (“Preferred Shares”) following the closing of the 2021 SPA constituted a modification or extinguishment for accounting purposes by comparing the fair value of these Preferred Shares immediately before and immediately after the closing of the 2021 SPA. An extinguishment occurs when the difference in fair value exceeds 10%, while a modification occurs when such fair value difference is lower than 10%.

Additionally, the carrying value of the Series A-1 Shares, which were previously presented among non-controlling interests, were reclassified to redeemable non-controlling interests and initially recognized at their fair value following their re-designation as New Series A Preferred Shares.

Following the modification and extinguishment of the Preferred Shares and the reclassification of the Series A-1 Shares, in 2021 the Company adjusted the carrying value of the redeemable non-controlling interests by $9.1 million, with a corresponding decrease to additional paid-in capital and non-controlling interests in the amounts of $10.1 million and $1.0 million, respectively.

The following table summarizes our results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021. However our discussion of the results of operations excludes the comparison of the results for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021. Refer to item 5, Operating and Financial Review and Prospects-Results of Operations in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2022 which was filed with the SEC on May 10, 2023.

The following table sets forth, for the annual periods indicated, the Company’s revenues generated from customers by geographical area based on the geographical location of the customers invoicing address:

During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 the COVID-19 outbreak developed rapidly. As a result, there was a decrease of travel by flights, reducing the demand for services the Company provide as part of its airport security and other aviation services. Our cumulative revenues during those years were lower than our revenues in previous years. During 2022 we have seen improvement and partial recovery in the aviation industry. However, in some locations, the industry suffered from a shortage in manpower making it difficult to handle the growing demand. The Company has overcome the manpower shortage in most of the locations in which it operates by the end of 2022 so that the revenue of the year ended December 2023 represents a full year of operations on a regular base.

During 2022 and 2021, governments in some of the countries in which we operate implemented the government assistance measures, which mitigated the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on our results and liquidity. In the United States of America, the government has approved a payroll support of $0.0 million and $15.9 million, for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 to the American subsidiary of the Company. The American subsidiary recognized amounts of $0.0 million, $0.0 million and $16.9 million as reduction of labor expenses for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Dutch government has provided financial assistance of €3.7 million and €18.1 million ($3.9 million and $22.6 million as of December 31, 2022 and 2021), respectively. The Dutch government terminated the support program in March, 2022.

In the Netherlands wage tax, social security and VAT payments for the period March 2020 until September 2021 were postponed and have to be paid in 60 monthly installments, starting October 2022. The debt incurs annual interest starting July 2022 of 1% and increases every six months to a maximum of 4% starting on January 1, 2024 onwards. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company accumulated debt of €24.9 million and €31.8 million ($27.3 million and $33.8 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022), respectively to the Dutch tax authorities.

In Germany, the employees are eligible for payroll support up to 60% of the employee’s payroll (on individual basis) in case the employees meet the support plan requirements. The Company pays to its German employees their full salary and the Company is being reimbursed by the German government for the payroll support amount. The Company applied for this support regarding COVID-19 starting from April 2020 to June 2021.

As the majority of the Company’s operations are in Euros, the yearly results are being affected by the movements in exchange rates between the Euros and the US Dollars. The yearly average exchange rate for the year 2023 was 1.09 USD to 1.00 Euro compared to 1.05 USD to 1.00 Euro in 2022, representing a increase of approximately 3.5%.

During 2022 the Crypto market has been volatile and was negatively affected, for the most part by the monetary tightening by central banks around the world to combat inflation. The Company’s authentication technology segment provides services to some customers in this market, adversely impacting the Company’s revenues. The crypto market in 2023 was less volatile and more stable than 2022.

Total revenue in 2023 was $431.5 million compared to $325.0 million in 2022.

Revenue generated in Germany was $114.2 million in 2023 compared to $111.8 million in 2022. As revenue in Germany is in Euro, it is being affected also by exchange rate fluctuations as its being translated to USD. Revenue of 2022 according to the 2023 exchange rate would have been $115.4 million.

Revenue generated in the Netherlands was $101.5 million in 2023 compared to $63.8 million in 2022. The increase in revenue generated in the Netherlands was a result of more services provided to our main customer in the Netherlands (Schiphol Airport) and increases in the hourly rate paid to employees and reimbursed to the Company by Schiphol Airport. As revenue in the Netherlands is in Euro, it is being affected also by exchange rate fluctuations as it is being translated to USD. Revenue of 2022 according to the 2023 exchange rate would have been $65.9 million.

Revenue generated in the United States of America was $99.7 million in 2023, compared to $88.3 million in 2022. The increase in revenue generated in the United States of America was primarily a result of increase of services provided by our other aviation related services segment to its customers. Services provided by our other aviation related services segment to its customers in the United States of America increased from $54.0 million in 2022 to $66.5 million following a recovery in the airline industry in 2023 and increases in minimum wage rates.

Revenue generated in Spain was $82.2 million in 2023 compared to $39.4 million in 2022. The increase in revenue generated in Spain represents new contracts in Spain and an increase of services to existing customers. As revenue in Spain is in Euro, it is being affected also by exchange rate fluctuations as it is being translated to USD. Revenue in 2022 according to the 2023 exchange rate would have been $40.7 million.

Revenue outside Germany, the Netherlands, Spain and the United States of America totaled $33.9 million in 2023 compared to $21.5 million in 2022.

Cost of revenue in 2023 was $351.6 million or 81.5% of revenue, compared to $261.2 million or 80.4% of revenue in 2022. The majority of cost of revenue relates to payroll and related costs. Following the recovery of the airport security and other aviation related services segments in 2023, the cost of revenue increased. Following the COVID-19 crisis the Netherlands provided in 2022 financial assistance to the Company and its subsidiaries at the airport security segment, of €3.7 million ($3.9 million as of December 31, 2022), reducing the Company’s labor costs.

Research and Development Expenses (“R&D”)

Research and development costs in 2023 were $12.3 million or 2.9% of revenue, compared to $13.6 million or 4.2% of revenue in 2022. The authentication technology segment has been restructuring its operations in 2023 resulting in a decrease of the R&D costs, mostly because of less payroll costs.

SG&A expenses in 2023 were $56.9 million or 13.1% of revenue in 2023, compared to $53.8 million or 16.5% of revenue in 2022. The Company’s payroll, related expenses and commissions increased by $5.4 million compared to 2022, mainly because the increase in revenue which required more employees in order to manage the operations as well as increase in payroll costs and commissions relating to the authentication technology segment. The Company’s legal expenses decreased by $2.5 million. The legal costs in 2022 related mostly to legal costs of the authentication technology segment regarding potential changes in the shareholding structure.

Other income (expenses), net, were $1.6 million or 0.4% of revenues in 2023, compared to $0.1 million or 0% of revenues in 2022. The company recognized in 2023 interest expense of $1.2 million to the Dutch tax authorities in relation to the debt following the COVID-19 assistance. In the other hand, interest income increased by $2.1 million in 2023 as a result of increase in the market interest rates which allowed the company to deposit its cash in bank deposits in exchange for higher interest compared to 2022. In 2023 the Company recorded a one-time profit of $0.7 million following the sale of part of its investment in SardiAI. In addition, in 2023 the Company recorded exchange rate income of $0.3 million compared to exchange rate income of $0.7 million in 2022.

Income tax expenses were $1.7 million or 0.5% of revenue in 2023 compared to $1.6 million or 0.5% of revenue in 2022. Income tax expenses relating to the authentication technology segment were $0.9 million in 2023 compared to $0.2 million in 2022. Income tax expenses relating to the airport security were $0.8 million in 2023 compared to $1.3 million in 2022. Income tax expenses relating to the other aviation related services were $0.0 million in 2023 compared to $0.1 million in 2022. Although some of the subsidiaries of the Company were profitable in 2022, previous net operating losses were utilized to reduce the yearly income tax expenses.

The following table sets forth, for the annual periods indicated, certain financial data related to the Company’s reportable segments. However our discussion of the reportable segments excludes the comparison for the year ended December 31, 2021. Refer to item 5, Operating and Financial Review and Prospects – Results of Operations in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2022, which was filed with the SEC on May 10, 2023.

The Company’s loss in the corporate segment increased from $2.9 million in 2022 to $3.3 million in 2023. During 2023 the corporate segment payroll and related costs increased by $0.2 million and audit expenses increased by $0.2 million compared to 2022.

Increase in revenue from the airport security segment from $224.0 million in 2022 to $309.3 million in 2023 relates to the recovery of the aviation industry from the COVID-19 crisis and overcome the shortage in manpower that affected the 2022 operations. As the majority of this segments operations are in Euros, the yearly results are being affected by the movements in exchange rates between the Euros and the US Dollars. The yearly average exchange rate for the year 2023 was 1.09 USD to 1.00 Euro compared to 1.05 USD to 1.00 Euro in 2022, representing an increase of approximately 3.5%.

The Company’s net income from the airport security was $2.6 million in 2023 compared to $1.1 million in 2022. The main reason for the difference between 2023 and 2022 is the recovery of the aviation industry in 2023 which increased the demand for our services which was reflected in increase of revenue and profitability.

Increase in revenue from aviation related services segment from $54.0 million in 2022 to $66.5 million in 2023 relates to the recovery of the aviation industry from the COVID-19 crisis and overcome the shortage in manpower that affected the 2022 operations. In addition, in few states in the United States of America there have been some increases in minimum wages, which increase both our revenues and our labor costs, even though not always by the same amounts.

The Company’s net income (loss) from the other aviation related services was $0.0 million in 2023 compared to $(2.2) million in 2022. The main reasons for the difference between 2023 and 2022 are the recovery of the aviation industry in 2023 which increased the demand for our services, reflected in increase of revenue and profitability, as well as some changes implemented in 2023 in the operations in order to improve efficiency.

Revenue in 2023 from the authentication technology segment was $55.7 million compared to $47.0 million in 2022. The Company has been increasing its customers as well as increasing the services it provides to existing customers. The net profit (loss) from this segment amounted $11.3 million in 2023 compared to $(1.2) million in 2022. Increase in profitability in 2023 was a result of increase in revenue as well as changes in the segment structure and cutting of expenses.

The Company’s most significant expenditures consist of payroll, related costs and professional fees. The Company has historically financed such expenditures through cash flows from operations, funding received from lines of credit, loans with lenders in Europe, the United States of America and borrowings from a convertible note arrangement with a related party.

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company had cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and bank deposits of $101 million and $96.0 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, restricted cash were $11.8 million and $20.5 million which consist of collateral for our letters of credit, derivative instruments and restricted bank accounts in the Netherlands, which are restricted for payments to local tax authorities. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, bank deposits were $34.0 million and $24.6 million, respectively.

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company had a working capital of $96.1 million and $87.2 million, respectively and shareholders’ deficit of $2.6 million and $10.4 million, respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company incurred net income (loss) of $10.6 million, $(5.2) million and $41.3 million, respectively, and net cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities of $4.4 million, $(2.1) million and $53.4 million, respectively.

The Company had a line of credit in the Netherlands up to €12.0 million ($12.7 million as of December 31, 2022), which expired in May 2021 (except the line of credit for guarantees of €2.5 million which was in place until March 2022) and additional line of credit in the United States of America up to $10 million which expired in October 2021. In September 2023 the Company signed a three-year credit facility for its American subsidiary with a maximum borrowing limit of $7.5 million. In addition, the Company has a line of credit in Sweden up to 4,000 SEK ($0.4 million as of December 31, 2023), as well as a loan facility in Spain for short term loans which was used during 2023 by taking loans for periods ranging between three to six months in a total amount of $2.9 million and which were fully repaid during the year.

The Company has an agreement with an entity related to its main shareholder, to provide it with up to $2.0 million in revolving loans through January 2026 with interest rate of 2.5% per annum. The lender can convert up to 3 million shares into the Company’s shares at a price of $0.75 per share.

The Company’s business plan projects profit from operations in 2024. The Company is dependent mostly in Europe and the United States of America for its businesses on the airline industry. ICTS is an employee intensive company.

The decisions taken in previous years by various governments following the COVID 19 situation have affected economic activity and the Company’s business as following:

The below analysis of cash flows excludes discussions relate to year ended December 31, 2021. Refer to items 5, operating and Financial review and Prospects-Liquidity and Capital Resources in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2022, which was filed with the SEC on May 10, 2023.

Our cash flows from operating activities vary significantly from year to year, depending on our operating results, timing of cash receipts and disbursements on accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities.

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $4.4 million. This provided cash resulted primarily from net profit for the year of $10.6 million, decrease of prepaid expenses and other current assets of $2.9 million mostly as the last governmental assistance payment of $4.3 million was paid to the Company during 2023. In addition, cash provided by operating activities was affected by decrease of deposits that were held by customers by $2.1 million following by termination of agreements, accrued expenses increase of $8.3 million and increase of VAT payable of $2.8 million following the increase in revenue. This was offset by increase of accounts receivable of $15.7 million following the increase of revenue, decrease of accounts payable by $2.3 million and decrease of other liabilities of $8.0 million following payments done during 2023 by the Company in order to repay its long-term debt to the Dutch tax authorities which was provided as part of the governmental assistance to the Company during COVID-19. A non-cash charge of $2.7 million for depreciation and amortization was recognized in 2023.

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $(2.1) million. This provided cash resulted primarily from net loss for the year of $5.2 million offset by a decrease in prepaid expenses and other current assets of $5.3 million, mostly as 2021 included $9.1 million receivable from the Dutch tax authorities which was fully received during 2022 and in addition, in 2022, it included $1.8 million VAT receivable compared to $0 million in 2021. Deposits increased by $4.5 million. In 2022 there is an increase in accounts payable of $3.0 million compared to 2021, an increase in accrued expenses and other current liabilities of $3.6 million compared to 2021, mostly following increase in deferred revenue of $1.3 million and increase of accrued vacation of $0.9 million - as the company didn’t have enough manpower to supply the demand and less employees took vacations during the year. VAT payable increased in 2022 by $2.7 million following an increase in the revenue of the Company. Other liabilities decreased by $9.3 million mostly due to payments the Company has been making to cover its long term liabilities to the Dutch tax authorities, following the measures taken by the Dutch government and the postpone of payroll taxes, social security and VAT. A non-cash charge of $2.5 million for depreciation and amortization was recognized in 2022.

Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $0.6 million and consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $1.6 million offset mostly by $0.8 million proceeds received from sale of investments.

Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $2.7 million and consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $1.7 million and capitalization of software costs of $1.4 million.

Net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $0.2 million which consisted of payments under the lines of credit and the convertible notes payable to a related party totaling $0.2 million.

Net cash used in financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $0.2 million which consisted of repayments under the lines of credit, net of $0.1 million and repayment of convertible notes payable to a related party of $0.1 million.

The Company’s U.S subsidiary secured a three-year credit facility with its primary bank in September 2023. The origination fee paid on the credit facility was $0.1 million. The credit facility has a maximum borrowing base limit of $7.5 million. The borrowing base limitation is equivalent to: (i) 85% of eligible non-investment grade receivables and 90% of eligible investment grade receivables, plus (ii) 80% of direct labor payroll for the previous two pay periods plus 20%. The company is required to maintain a fixed charge ratio of 1.00. Borrowings on the credit facility are subject to interest at SOFR plus 2.65% and a minimum annual interest charge of $0.1 million. As of December 31, 2023, there was an unused amount available on the credit facility of $7.5 million. As of December 31, 2023, the Company has not yet borrowed funds under the credit facility.

The Company has a credit arrangement in Sweden to provide it with up to 4 million SEK ($0.4 million as of December 31, 2023) in borrowings. Borrowings under the line of credit bear annual interest of 2.8% and subject to annual extension by the financial institution. The line of credit is secured by accounts receivable of the Swedish subsidiary. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company had 2.1 million SEK and 1.2 million SEK ($0.2 million and $0.1 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022) respectively in outstanding borrowings under the line of credit facility.

 

On November 2023, the Company entered into a loan agreement with a commercial bank in Spain to provide it with up to €1.0 million ($1.1 million as of December 31, 2023). Interest rate will be determined by the bank at the time the loan will be taken. The loan agreement expires in November 2024. As of December 31, 2023 the Company had no outstanding balance under the loan agreement.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2023 the Company has been taking from time to time revolving short term loans from the same commercial bank, of variable amounts. The loans ranged between €0.3 million to €1.4 million ($0.3 million and $1.6 million as of December 31, 2023) with interest rates between 5.25% to 5.90% and for periods between three to six months. On December 2023, an agreement with the commercial bank was extended, to provide loans up to €1.5 million ($1.6 million as of December 31, 2023). These loans can be used only for paying different taxes to the Spanish tax authorities. The interest rate is being determined at the time the loans are being taken. The loan agreement can be terminated by both sides at any time. As of December 31, 2023 there are no outstanding balances regarding those loans.

 

The Company’s weighted average interest rate in Europe during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, was 4.7%, 2.8% and 4.8% respectively.

The Company had an agreement with an entity related to its main shareholder, to provide it with up to $2.0 million in revolving loans through January 2024. The term of the arrangement can be automatically extended for four additional six-month periods at the option of the holder. Loans received under the arrangement bear interest, which is compounded semi-annually and payable at maturity, at the interest rate of 2.5%. In connection with the arrangement, the holder was granted in May 2019 an option to convert up to $2.0 million of the loan into maximum of 5,000,000 shares at a price of $0.4 per share. In October 2020, the entity converted $0.8 million into 2,000,000 shares. In November 2023 the Company and the related party agreed to extend the length of the note until January 2026 and to adjust the terms of the option to convert the loan into maximum 5,000,000 shares at a price of $0.75 per share. As a result, an adjustment was made to the per share price of the 2,000,000 million shares issued in October 2020 conversion, resulting in an amount of $0.7 million of the loan derecognized with a corresponding increase to the additional paid in capital.

 

The Company’s weighted average interest during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 is 2.5%, 2.5% and 7.10%, respectively.

 

Total interest expense related to the note is $21 thousands $28 thousands and $83 thousands for the years ended December 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

 

As of December 31, 2023, and 2022, convertible notes payable to this related party consist of $0.0 million and $1.1 million, respectively.

On July 3, 2019, AU10TIX entered into a Series A Preferred Subscription Agreement (the “Agreement”) with TPG Lux 2018 SC I, S.a.r.l (“TPG”), according to which AU10TIX issued 3,000,000 Series A Preferred Shares (“Series A Shares”) to TPG for a subscription price of US$60.0 million in cash representing approximately 24% of the outstanding share capital of AU10TIX and 23.077% of the fully-diluted share capital of AU10TIX. Transaction costs totaled $4.5 million and were deducted from the redeemable non-controlling interests balance.

On November 7, 2019, AU10TIX entered into a Series A and Series A-1 Preferred Subscription Agreement with Oak HC/FT Partners II, L.P. (“Oak”), according to which AU10TIX issued 1,000,000 Series A Preferred Shares and 23,622 Series A-1 Preferred Shares (“Series A-1 Shares” and together with Series A Shares – “the Preferred Shares”) to Oak for a subscription price of US$20.0 million in cash representing approximately 7.401% of the outstanding share capital of AU10TIX and 7.143% of the fully-diluted share capital of AU10TIX. For accounting purposes, the investment was allocated to the Series A and Series A-1 Preferred Shares on a relative fair value basis: $19.5 million and $0.5 million, respectively. Transaction costs totaled $1.5 million and were deducted from the respective investment amounts.

Following the Oak investment, on November 7, 2019, TPG subscribed for 307,087 Series A-1 Shares at nominal value (US$0.001 per share) (“Bonus Issue Series A-1 Shares”) in order to preserve its 23.077% ownership interest in the fully diluted share capital of AU10TIX.

On June 28, 2021, TPG, Oak, GF GW LLC (“GF”) and the Company, entered into a Sale and Purchase Agreement (the “SPA”), pursuant to which Oak and GF purchased preferred shares in the Company from TPG. In connection with the SPA, (i) such parties and the Registrant entered into an amended and restated shareholders agreement (the “SHA”) and an amended and restated registration rights agreement (the “RRA”) and (ii) The Company’s Articles of Association (the “Articles”) were amended by a deed of amendment (the “Deed of Amendment”). 

Pursuant to the SPA, OAK purchased 755,906 AU10TIX Series A Preferred shares from TPG and GF purchased 1,511,811 AU10TIX Series A preferred Shares from TPG. In connection with such purchases, all outstanding AU10TIX’s Series A Preferred Shares and Series A-1 Preferred Shares were re-designated as New Series A Preferred Shares and the Ordinary Shares owned by ICTS were re-designated as Class B Ordinary Shares, as described below.

Following the completion of the sales and purchases contemplated by the SPA on June 28, 2021: (i) the Registrant owned 68.69% of the outstanding share capital of the Company in the form of Class B Ordinary Shares; (ii) Oak owned 12.87% of the outstanding share capital of A the Company in the form of New Series A Preferred Shares; (iii) GF owned 10.93% of the outstanding share capital of the Company in the form of New Series A Preferred Shares; and (iv) TPG owned 7.51% of the outstanding share capital of the Company in the form of New Series A Preferred Shares. In addition, The Company may issue up to 500,000 Class A Ordinary Shares under its existing employee stock option plan.

The SHA and the Articles (as amended by the Deed of Amendment) provide for the following material matters in respect of the rights attaching to the New Series A Preferred Shares and the Ordinary Shares and the ongoing governance of the Company:

General: The New Series A Preferred Shares are entitled to one vote per share and rank equally with the Ordinary Shares in regards to dividends. The Ordinary Shares are divided into two classes: Class A Ordinary Shares and Class B Ordinary Shares, which rank equally as to dividends. The Class A Ordinary Shares are entitled to one vote per share. The Class B Ordinary Shares are entitled to three votes per share and may only be held by the Registrant and its permitted transferees.

Liquidation Preference: the holders of New Series A Preferred Shares (“Series A Holders”) are entitled to a liquidation preference upon the occurrence of a (i) sale, initial public offering, which term includes certain business combinations with a SPAC (an “IPO”), merger, consolidation or reorganization, which results in change of control of the Company, and (ii) winding-up, dissolution or liquidation of the Company, pursuant to which the Series A Holders are entitled, on the occurrence of such event and in priority to the Ordinary Shares, to receive the greater of: (a) US$26.5 million per share, subject to adjustments for certain events affecting the capital of The Company (the “Starting Price”) plus all accrued but unpaid dividends in respect of the New Series A Preferred Shares, less all dividends previously paid on the New Series A Preferred Shares, and (b) the proceeds distributable in respect of the New Series A Preferred Shares had they been converted into Class A Ordinary Shares. The Ordinary Shares rank equally in liquidation. 

Conversion Rights: The New Series A Preferred Shares are subject to conversion into Class A Ordinary Shares on a 1:1 basis (subject to adjustments for certain events affecting the capital of The Company): (a) upon the written request by any Series A Holder; and (b) immediately prior to a qualifying IPO of the Company (being an IPO where each Class A Ordinary Share is valued at not less than 150% of the Starting Price at the completion of the IPO, subject to adjustments for certain events affecting the capital of The Company) (a “Qualifying IPO”). The Class B Ordinary Shares are convertible into Class A Ordinary Shares at any time upon the written request of a holder of Class B Ordinary Shares on a 1:1 basis, subject to adjustments for certain events affecting the capital of The Company.

Anti-Dilution Protection: The SHA contains customary broad-based weighted average anti-dilution protection whereby, if further shares are issued by The Company at a price per new security that is less than the Starting Price, then the Series A Holders shall be entitled to receive additional Class A Ordinary Shares (at no further cost) on a weighted-average basis, reflecting the value of the equity in The Company, as determined based on the subscription price paid in the new issue of securities.

Transfers: Subject to certain customary exceptions, including a transfer to a permitted transferee, any shareholder (other than TPG, Oak and GF) wishing to transfer any of the shares held by it shall first offer such shares to each shareholder holding 3% or more of The Company’s outstanding share capital at the same price and on the same terms at which the selling shareholder wishes to transfer such shares.

New Issuances: Subject to certain customary exceptions, each shareholder holding 3% or more of The Company’s outstanding share capital has the right to participate in any new issuance of securities by The Company.

Information Rights: Subject to certain exceptions, each shareholder holding 3% or more of The Company’s outstanding share capital is entitled to receive certain financial information regarding The Company including budgets, annual and quarterly accounts and details of any third party offer for the stock or assets of The Company, as well as certain inspection rights.

Exit Rights: At any time from and after July 3, 2026, upon written request by Series A Holders holding at least 60% of the then outstanding New Series A Preferred Shares (the “Preferred Majority”), The Company is required to use reasonable endeavors to facilitate a sale of The Company within six months after such written request, and, thereafter, the Preferred Majority has the right to step-in and require The Company to facilitate a sale or IPO. On the exercise of such step-in right, each other shareholder (including the Registrant) is required to cooperate with the Preferred Majority regarding such sale or IPO and the Preferred Majority has the right to exercise drag rights over the shares held by other shareholders in order to facilitate such exit event.

Board Arrangements: The Shareholders Agreement and Articles provide that the board of directors of The Company shall be constituted by up to six directors: (i) four of whom will be appointed by the holder of a majority of the Class B Ordinary Shares (i.e., currently the Registrant); (ii) one of whom will be appointed by Oak (for so long as Oak holds at least 50% of the New Series A Preferred Shares held on the date of the closing of the transactions contemplated by the SPA, subject to adjustments for certain events affecting the capital of The Company); and (iii) one of whom will be appointed by GF (for so long as GF holds at least 50% of the New Series A Preferred Shares held on the date of the closing of the transactions contemplated by the SPA, subject to adjustments for certain events affecting the capital of The Company). As a general matter, the board of The Company is able to pass resolutions by a simple majority, subject to the consent rights of the Preferred Majority set out below.

Preferred Majority Consent Rights: For as long as the Series A Holders hold, in the aggregate, at least 25% of the New Series A Shares Preferred Shares held on the date of the closing of the transactions contemplated by the SPA, subject to adjustments for certain events affecting the capital of The Company, the consent of the Preferred Majority is required for the following actions (i) amending the SHA or the Articles in a manner that would adversely affect the rights, preferences or privileges of the New Series A Preferred Shares; (ii) issuing new securities ranking senior to or pari passu with the New Series A Preferred Shares; (iii) making of any dividend or distribution other than a dividend or distribution that is pro rata to the Series A Holders and the holders of the Ordinary Shares; (iv) redeeming any Ordinary Shares; (v) incurring debt in excess of 4.0x The Company’s consolidated EBITDA in the 12-month period ending on the last day of the month preceding the month in which the debt was incurred; (vi) consummating an IPO other than a Qualifying IPO; (vii) making certain changes to the size of the Company’s board; (viii) making any fundamental change in the nature of the business of The Company and its subsidiaries; (ix) entering into related party transactions, unless such transaction is commercially reasonable and on an arm’s-length basis; and (x) either amending the Company’s existing stock option plan or creating a new stock option plan to allow for the issuance of more than 500,000 additional Class A Common Shares.

Tag Rights: Following completion of the procedures on transfers set out above, each Series A Holder holding 3% or more of AU10TIX’s outstanding shares will have the right to participate proportionately in any third-party share sale by another shareholder other than a Series A Holder (subject to certain customary exceptions).

Drag Rights: The Company has the right to drag other shareholders into an exit event subject to certain requirements being satisfied (including either (i) holders of New Series A Shares receiving the greater of: (a) the Starting Price and (b) the proceeds distributable in respect of the New Series A Preferred Shares had they been converted into Class A Ordinary Shares, in each case with the approval of the Board, the Preferred Majority and the holders of a majority of the shares or (ii) a minimum value per New Series A Share of 150% of the Starting Price approved by the Board and holders of a majority of the shares, in each case subject to adjustments for certain events affecting the capital of The Company) in relation to such exit transaction.

Termination: The SHA terminates upon (i) the agreement of The Company, the Preferred Majority and a majority of the holders of the Ordinary Shares or (ii) the closing of a Qualifying IPO.

Tax Matters: The Company is required to provide the Series A Holders with certain customary information for U.S. federal tax reporting purposes.

Confidentiality and Public Announcements: The SHA provides for customary confidentiality protections and limitations on public announcements without consent.

The RRA provides the Series A Holders (and in certain cases the holders of the Class B Ordinary Shares) with a limited number of customary long-form and short-form demand registration rights, shelf registration rights and the right to participate under certain conditions if The Company determines to register its shares. In addition, The Company has undertaken to (i) take certain actions to facilitate the rights of the parties under the RRA; (ii) provide customary indemnification; (iii) not agree to further registration rights superior to those granted under the RRA; and (iv) limit issuances of its shares under certain circumstances set out in the RRA.

Pre-emption Rights: The Shareholders Agreement contains a restriction on issuing any securities senior to or pari passu with the New Series A Preferred Shares for so long as the holders of the New Series A Preferred Shares on June 28, 2021 (or their transferees in accordance with the terms of the Shareholders Agreement) continue to collectively hold at least 25% of such number (appropriately adjusted for certain corporate events) of New Series A Preferred Shares. In addition, each shareholder holding in excess of 3% of the Company’s outstanding shares has the right to participate in any new issuance of securities by the Company, subject to customary exceptions.

Research and development costs are expensed as incurred and consist primarily of payroll and related costs. Research and development costs are $12.3 million, $13.6 million and $12.1 million during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Labor market conditions may require the Company to increase its prices when possible according to the contracts with customers. Cost of labor is the main variable in determining any cost increases.

The Company might be affected by a worldwide economic slowdown which might affect the aviation industry. As the Company is a service provider to this industry, such trends can affect the results of the Company. During 2021 and 2020 the company has been materially affected by the COVID-19 crisis.

The Company is a party to an agency agreement, so that in the event that the operations on one of the countries that we operate are sold in the future, the third-party agent is entitled to a payment of €3.0 million ($3.3 million as of December 31, 2023).

In 2022 the Company has signed an employment agreement with a CEO of a subsidiary on which starting in 2023 the CEO is entitled to 10% EBIDA (excluding the applicable taxes) of that subsidiary.

The Company has no unconsolidated special purpose entities.

The following table summarizes our future contractual obligations as of December 31, 2023:

The following table summarizes the Company’s other future commercial obligations as of December 31, 2023:

The following table lists the directors and executive officers of ICTS:

Menachem J. Atzmon is a CPA (Isr). Since 1976 Mr. Atzmon serves as director and chairman of Spencer Corporation. From 1996 until 2012 Mr. Atzmon has been the managing director of Albermale Investment Ltd., an investment company. Since 1998 until 2012 he has served as the Chairman of the Management Board of Seehafen Rostock, Umschlagsgesellschaft GmbH and its Holding Company. Mr. Atzmon has been a member of the Supervisory Board of ICTS since 1999 and acts as the Chairman of the Supervisory Board since 2004. Since 2010 he serves as the Chairman of Arrow Ecology & Engineering Overseas (1999) Ltd, an advance recycling company. During 2014 Mr. Atzmon was appointed in addition to his role of Chairman of the Supervisory Board to CEO of the Arrow Ecology & Engineering Overseas Ltd.

Ron Atzmon is the Managing Director of the AU10TIX Group since September 2008. Mr. Atzmon was the CEO and founder of 1ST2C.com between April 2005 and January 2009. Mr. Atzmon holds an MA in Business Administration from the College of Management Academic, Israel and an MBA from the Imperial College London, UK.

Gil Atzmon is the CEO of Arrow Ecology since February 2017. Mr. Atzmon was a Director of Sales at S. Juwal & Co from 2002 to 2017. Mr. Atzmon holds a BA in Business Administration and Management from IDC Herzliya, Israel and an MBA from the London Metropolitan University, UK.

Philip M. Getter has been managing member of GEMPH Development LLC since 1985. Mr. Getter has more than 30 years of corporate finance experience. From 2000 to 2005 he was president of DAMG Capital, LLC Investment Bankers. Prior thereto he was head of Investment Banking and a member of the board of directors of Prime Charter, Ltd. After graduation from Cornell University he served as Administrative Assistant to the Director of United States Atomic Energy Commission. From 1960 to 1969 he was a partner with Shearson, Hammill and from 1969 to 1975 Senior Partner of Devon Securities, an international investment-banking boutique. From 1975 to 1984 he was Chairman/CEO of Generics Corporation of America, then one of the largest generic drug companies in the United States of America. As President and CEO of Wolins Pharmacal (1977 to 1984) he led the reorganization and restructuring of this distributor of medical supplies. Mr. Getter was Chairman of Inksure Technologies, Inc.a manufacturer of RFID and security inks. He was a founder of KIDSRx an all-natural pharmaceutical company and Chairman of TCI College of Technology. Mr. Getter has been a member of The Broadway League [League of American Theatres and Producers], Vice Chairman of The Kurt Weill Foundation for Music and Trustee of the American Theatre Wing. He has been involved in most aspects of the entertainment industry and has produced for Broadway, television and film. His productions have earned Pulitzer Prize, Tony and Grammy Awards.

David W. Sass for the past 64 years has been a practicing attorney in New York City and is currently a Special Council in the law firm of McLaughlin & Stern, LLP. Mr. Sass is also licensed in the State of Texas. Mr. Sass has been a director of ICTS since 2002 and is also a director of several privately held corporations. Mr. Sass is an Honorary Trustee of Ithaca College.

Gail F. Lieberman is the founder and Managing Partner of Rudder Capital, LLC, which provides financial and strategic advisory services for middle-market companies in the services & technology sectors. Previously, she was the Chief Financial Officer for Thomson Corporation’s Financial & Professional Publishing division, Moody’s Investor Service, Inc. and Scali, McCabe, Sloves, Inc. (Ogilvy Group). Ms. Lieberman is a director of Thesys Group, a private financial technology company and a board member and Chairman of the Audit & Finance Committee of WL Gore & associates. Mrs. Lieberman is a board member and lead director of Equilend, a financial technology company, where she chairs the nominating, governance and compensation committee. Formerly Mrs. Lieberman served as board member for the South-Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority, board member, Compensation Committee Chair and Audit Committee Member for Dara Biosciences (NASDAQ: DARA), board member and Audit Committee Chair for I-Trax Inc. (Amex: DMX), board member and Audit and Governance Committee Member for TriPath Imaging Inc. (NASDAQ: TPTH) and board member and Audit Committee Chair for Breeze-Eastern Corporation (Amex: BZC). She also served on the board of FTEN, a financial technology company. Ms. Lieberman holds a BA in Mathematics and Physics and an MBA in Finance from Temple University.

Gordon Hausmann is the senior partner of his own law firm, founded in London over 35 years ago. He specializes, amongst other things, in corporate and commercial law, including business finance and banking law, litigation and representation of several substantial family offices. Mr. Hausmann holds office as a board member of numerous companies and institutions, including listed companies in the UK Israel and elsewhere, and is a Governor of the Hebrew University. These include an international airline, some Embassies, finance companies (including a company associated with a private Swiss banking group) and other well-known and governmental entities. Mr. Hausmann also holds office and advises a number of charities and philanthropic institutions.

Ilan Nir is the COO of Veloretti B.V., a Dutch based D2C bicycle company that is part of one of the leading family-owned multinationals companies in the Netherlands (Pon Holdings). Mr. Nir has been with Pon Holdings since 2012 in which he led strategic projects and was deeply involved in the M&A practice. Mr. Nir has had leadership roles at different operating companies of Pon Holdings across the Netherlands, USA and Germany. From 2011 to 2012 Mr. Nir worked at PWC in the M&A tax practice. From 2009 to 2010 Mr. Nir worked as a tax lawyer at Loyens & Loeff N.V. in the international tax practice. Mr. Nir holds a Master of Tax Laws (LL.M.), specializing in International & European Tax Law.

Alon Raich is a CPA (Isr). From 2001 to 2002, Mr. Raich worked at the accounting firms Kesselman & Kesselman and PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC). Mr. Raich joined ICTS in September 2005 as Financial Controller and became Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of ICTS in 2008. Since February 2020, Mr. Raich is a Managing Director and CFO of the Company. Mr. Raich holds a BA degree in economics and accounting and a MA degree in law from Bar Ilan University, Israel.

(1) Options granted relate to options of a subsidiary.

Each member of the Supervisory Board who is not an employee of the Company received during 2023 an annual fee of $30 thousand and a fee for each Supervisory Board or committee meeting attended of $2 thousands. The Chairman of the Audit Committee receives an additional $20 thousand per year. The Chairman of the Board receives an annual fix fee of $50 thousand. Managing Directors are being employed by the Company and the total expenses regarding their employment for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $0.9 million.

The following table sets forth information concerning the aggregate compensation paid or accrued on behalf of all of our directors, executive officers, subsidiaries CEOs and Chairmen as a group for the year ended December 31, 2023:

Our Compensation Committee consists of Gail Lieberman, Chairman, Gordon Hausmann and Ilan Nir, all of them independent directors.

The Compensation Committee is to assist and undertake preparatory work for the Supervisory Board in its decision-making in relation the compensation to be paid to members of the Management Board and (other) executive officers based on our financial and operating performance and prospects, the level of compensation paid to similarly situated executives in comparably sized companies, and contributions made by the officers to our success. Each of the named officers will be measured by a series of performance criteria by the Supervisory Board, or the Compensation Committee on a yearly basis. Such criteria will be set forth based on certain objective parameters such as job characteristics, required professionalism, management skills, interpersonal skills, related experience, personal performance and overall corporate performance.

Our Supervisory Board and Compensation Committee have not adopted or established a formal policy or procedure for determining the amount of compensation paid to our executive officers.

 The Compensation Committee makes an independent evaluation of appropriate compensation of key employees, with input from management.

ICTS’ compensation program for our executive officers and all other employees is designed such that it will not incentivize unnecessary risk-taking. The base salary component of our compensation program is usually a fixed amount and does not depend on performance. Our cash incentive program takes into account multiple metrics, thus diversifying the risk associated with any single performance metric, and we believe it does not incentivize our executive officers to focus exclusively on short-term outcomes. Our equity awards are limited by the terms of our equity plans to a fixed maximum specified in the plan, and are subject to vesting to align the long-term interests of our executive officers with those of our stockholders.

We provide our executive officers with a base salary and certain bonuses and commissions as well as equity awards in some cases to compensate them for services rendered during the year. The Compensation Committee determines and recommends the composition and amount of directors and key employees compensation. When the annual award consists of equity purchases, it is only permitted at a price equal or above market.

ICTS has a two tier board system, including a Supervisory Board and a Management Board. The Supervisory Board has the primary responsibility of supervising the policies of the Management Board and the general course of corporate affairs of ICTS and the business connected with it as well as to provide the Management Board with advice.

The Management Board is responsible for the day-to-day operations of ICTS. Members of the Supervisory Board and the Management Board are appointed by the general meeting for a term of one year.

Non-executive officers are appointed by and serve at the satisfaction of the Management Board.

The members of the Supervisory Board as of December 31, 2023 and the initial year they joined the Supervisory Board are as follows: Menachem Atzmon (1999), Ron Atzmon (2018), Gil Atzmon (2018), David W. Sass (2002), Philip M. Getter (2003), Gordon Hausmann (2005), Gail F. Lieberman (2010) and Ilan Nir (2023).

The Audit Committee consists of Philip M. Getter, Chairman, Gail F. Lieberman and Gordon Hausmann, all of whom are independent. Mr. Getter and Ms. Lieberman have financial expertise. The Audit Committee provides assistance and undertakes preparatory work for the Supervisory Board in its decision-making regarding the supervision of ICTS’ accounting and financial reporting processes and audits of the financial statements, in doing so the Audit Committee evaluates ICTS's accounting policies and practices and financial reporting and internal control structures, selection of independent auditors to audit ICTS’ financial statements and confers with the auditors and the officers. The Audit Committee has an Operating Charter as well, most recently adopted on 6 February 2024.

ICTS does not have a Nominating Committee.

The members of the Audit Committee and Compensation Committee are all independent and were never officers or employees of the Company.

The Supervisory Board of the Company has adopted a Code of Ethics for principal executive officers, directors and senior financial officers.

The Articles of Association of ICTS require at least one member of both the Management Board and the Supervisory Board, but do not specify a maximum number of members for such boards. The general meeting determines the exact number of members of both the Management Board and the Supervisory Board. Under the laws of the Netherlands and the Articles of Association, each member of the Supervisory Board and Management Board holds office until such member's resignation, death or dismissal, with or without cause, by the general meeting.

As of December 31, 2023, the Company has 8,263 employees, of which 6,196 employees are located in Europe, Far East and Israel and 2,067 are located in the United States of America.

See tables under Item 7: “Major Shareholders” and “Related Party Transactions” below.

AU10TIX’s Limited, AU10TIX’s subsidiary, had a Stock Option Plan which reserved 500,000 shares of its common stock for its future issuance. Under the stock option plan, stock options may be granted to employees, officers, directors, consultants and service providers of the subsidiary at an exercise price as determined by the subsidiary’s board of directors with expiration terms of not more than ten years after the date such option is granted. Options granted under the plan generally vest over a period of four years.

In August 2020, AU10TIX’s board agreed to transfer the option plan from AU10TIX Limited to AU10TIX Technologies B.V. with the same terms and conditions. On June 24, 2022, the board of AU10TIX Technologies B.V. has adopted the “AU10TIX Technologies B.V. 2022 Stock Option Plan” (the “Plan”). The Plan grants rights to subscribe for up to 500,000 class A ordinary shares (“Ordinary Share”) in the capital of AU10TIX Technologies B.V. to employees, directors, consultants and service providers of AU10TIX Technologies B.V. and / or any related entity (as defined in the plan). By resolution of the board of AU10TIX Technologies B.V., on February 12, 2023, the board resolved to increase the number of options that can be exercised under the option plan from 500,000 to 1,000,000 ordinary shares.

During the year ended December 31, 2023, 584,500 options were granted by AU10TIX. As of December 31, 2023, there are 858,625 options granted and outstanding of which 389,500 options are fully vested and exercisable. The weighted average exercise price is $0.67 and the weighted average remaining contractual term as of December 31, 2022 is 6 years.

In 2024 the Company is working to issue shares to employees that asked to exercise their options. As of May 1, 2024, the Company received requests to exercise 266,750 options into shares.

The following table sets forth certain information regarding ownership of the Company's Shares as of December 31, 2023 with respect to:

Each person who is known by the Company to own beneficially more than 5% of the Company's outstanding Shares.

All directors and officers as a group.

(b)  1. The MacPherson Trust (“Trust”) was created for the benefit of the family of Mr. Menachem J. Atzmon. The Trust owns Spencer Corporation, Limited, which holds together with the Trust and its beneficiaries approximately 63.6% of the issued and outstanding Shares. Mr. Atzmon disclaims any beneficial interest in the MacPherson Trust. Spencer Corporation Limited and the MacPherson Trust and its beneficiaries together with Mr. Atzmon are able to appoint all the directors of ICTS and control the affairs of ICTS.

An entity related to one of the Company’s Supervisory Board members provide legal services to the Company. Legal expense related to these services is $46 thousand, $54 thousand and $59 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The Company engages the services of a related party to provide certain selling and management services to the authentication technology segment. The Company incurred expenses of $0.9 million, $1.3 million and $1.7 million for such services for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, and 2022 the outstanding balances due for these services were $0.4 million and $0.7 million, respectively, included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities. In addition, the related party serves as a board member of the Company and was paid an amount of $36 thousand, $38 thousand and $38 thousand as board fees, for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The Company engages the services of a related party to provide certain selling services to its authentication technology segment. The Company incurred expenses of $0.2 million, $0.2 million and $0.1 million for such services for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The Company engages the services of a related party to provide services as a Managing Director of the Company. The Company incurred expenses of $0.5 million, $0.4 million and $0.3 million for such services for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The Chairman of the board, a related party, receives annual compensation of $50 thousand for his services as Chairman. In addition, in 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company incurred salary expenses of $0.1 million, $0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively for the services he provides to AU10TIX.

The Company engaged the services of a related party to provide certain selling and administrative services to its authentication technology segment. The Company incurred expenses of $0.3 million, $0.3 million and $0.0 million for such services for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. In addition, the related party serves as a board member of the Company, and was paid an amount of $38 thousand, $36 thousand and $38 thousand as board fees, for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The Company engages the services of a related party to provide certain administration services. The Company incurred expenses of $0.1 million, $0.1 million and $0.1 million for such services for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

In May 2019, the Company engaged the services of Arrow to provide some administrative services. The Company incurred expenses of $0.0 million, $0.1 million and $0.3 million for such services for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The Company had an agreement with an entity related to its main shareholder, to provide it with up to $2.0 million in revolving loans through January 2024. The term of the arrangement can be automatically extended for four additional six-month periods at the option of the holder. Loans received under the arrangement bear interest, which is compounded semi-annually and payable at maturity, at the interest rate of 2.5%. In connection with the arrangement, the holder was granted in May 2019 an option to convert up to $2.0 million of the loan into maximum of 5,000,000 shares at a price of $0.4 per share. In October 2020, the entity converted $800 into 2,000,000 shares. In November 2023 the Company and the related party agreed to extend the length of the note until January 2026 and to adjust the terms of the option to convert the loan into maximum 5,000,000 shares at a price of $0.75 per share. As a result, an adjustment was made to the per share price of the 2,000,000 shares issued in October 2020 conversion, resulting in an amount of $0.7 million of the loan derecognize with a corresponding increase to the additional paid in capital.

As of December 31, 2023, the Company included a liability for a purchase of shares from certain directors and officers of the Company in the amount of $1.5 million with a corresponding reduction to shareholders deficiency plus payment of previous issuances

As of December 31, 2023, the Company has $7.2 million in outstanding letters of credit and guarantees. Letters of credit and guarantees are being secured either by the same amounts in restricted cash with commercial banks or with cash deposits provided to customers which serve as cash collateral in order to guarantee the performance and quality of services provided to the customers.

The Company is subject to various investigations, claims and legal proceedings covering a wide range of matters that arise in the ordinary course of its business activities. These claims are primarily related to grievances filed by current and former employees for unfair labor practices or discrimination and for passenger aviation claims. Management recognizes a liability for any matter when the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome is deemed to be probable and the amount is able to be reasonably estimated. Management has concluded that such claims, in the aggregate, would not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

 

In line with these recommendations the Company:

In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2023 the Company has (i) ratified the resolutions on the issuance of shares to directors and certain employees in April 2018 and October 2018, which have been approved by the General Meeting during the 2023 annual general meeting held on 20 December 2023, and (ii) in accordance with Section 2:80(1) of the Dutch Civil Code called in the amounts not yet fully paid in under the share issuances to directors and certain employees in September 2016 and December 2018 from the relevant shareholders. The financial effect of all the above totaling $1.2 million was recorded in 2023 as increase of equity against reduction of debt to related party.

Following the filing of the investigation report with the Enterprise Chamber in November 2023, the relevant minority shareholder has filed three new requests with the court, two of which the Enterprise Chamber already dismissed in full at the end of March 2024. The hearing of the third request, which is a request to establish mismanagement on the basis of the investigation and to order certain definitive measures at the Company is scheduled for mid-September 2024 and the Company has the opportunity to file a written statement of defense beforehand.

Inquiry proceedings revolve around corporate governance disputes and no formal liability can be established or damages can be claimed in such proceedings.

In April 2013, prior to the purchase of one of the current subsidiaries in Europe, the Company entered into an agency agreement with a third party to assist it with this transaction. According to the agreement, in the event that the operations in that country are sold in the future, the third-party agent is entitled to a payment of €3 million ($3.3 million as of December 31, 2023).

In December 2022, the Company entered into an employment agreement with a third party to serve as the CEO of one of the Company’s subsidiaries. According to the agreement the employee is entitled to annual target bonus. The bonus shall be equal to 10% of the EBIDA (excluding the applicable taxes).

Our shares of common stock are currently traded on the OTCQB under the symbol ICTSF.

The reported high and low closing sales prices per shares during the last five years were as follows:

The reported high and low closing sales prices per share during each quarter for the last 3 years were as follows:

ICTS is a public company with limited liability (naamloze vennootschap) incorporated under Dutch law on October 9, 1992. ICTS’ statutory seat is in Amstelveen, the Netherlands, and its registered office address at Walaardt Sacréstraat 425 5th floor, 1117 BM Schiphol, the Netherlands. ICTS is registered with the trade register of the Dutch Chamber of Commerce under number 33279300.

As a Dutch public company with limited liability, ICTS is subject to certain requirements not generally applicable to corporations organized under the laws of jurisdictions within the United States of America. Set forth below is a summary of the material provisions of the articles of association of ICTS as lastly amended on January 25, 2023 (the Articles of Association) and Dutch law, where appropriate. This summary does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Articles of Association. All references in this summary to the Netherlands and Dutch law are to the European part of the Netherlands and its law, respectively, only.

The objectives of ICTS are described in Article 2 of the Articles of Association and include, without limitation, to advice and render services regarding the security of persons and goods and to provide security (or having such security provided) on behalf of companies, government institutions and private individuals; in particular but not exclusively: the installation, management and supervision of security systems for the purpose of crime and terrorism prevention and control on and around premises, buildings, installations, vessels and aircraft, and to manage and finance businesses, extend loans and invest capital.

The shares of ICTS are subject to, and have been created under, the laws of the Netherlands. ICTS’ share capital is divided into common shares (Shares).

The Shares are in registered form (op naam) and are only available in the form of an entry in ICTS’ shareholders’ register.

In accordance with Dutch law, ICTS’ authorized share capital sets out the maximum amount and number of Shares that it may issue without amending its Articles of Association. The Articles of Association provide for an authorized share capital in an amount of EUR 67,500,000 divided into 150,000,000 Shares, each Share with a nominal value of EUR 0.45. As of December 31, 2023, 37,433,333 Shares were issued and outstanding.

The General Meeting is authorized to issue Shares or to grant rights to subscribe for Shares and to restrict and/or exclude statutory pre-emptive rights in relation to the issuance of Shares or the granting of rights to subscribe for Shares. The General Meeting may delegate the authority to issue Shares (or grant rights to subscribe for Shares) to the Supervisory Board. and for a specified period not exceeding five years (which period can be extended from time to time for further periods not exceeding five years) so long as the maximum number of Shares which may be issued is specified. Shares may not be issued at less than their nominal value and must be fully paid-up upon issue. A resolution by the General Meeting to issue Shares (or grant rights to subscribe for Shares) or to delegate to the supervisory board of ICTS the authority as the competent corporate body to issue Shares requires an absolute majority of the votes cast, in a general meeting in which at least half of the issued share capital of ICTS is represented.

Such resolution was adopted in December 2022 for a period of five years until December 2027, in which the Supervisory Board was designated. Designation by resolution of the General Meeting cannot be withdrawn unless determined otherwise at the time of designation. No resolution is required for the issue of Shares pursuant to the exercise of a previously granted right to subscribe for Shares.

Under Dutch law and the Articles of Association, each Shareholder has a pre-emptive right in proportion to the aggregate nominal value of their shareholding upon the issue of Shares (or the granting of rights to subscribe for Shares). Exceptions to this pre-emptive right that follow from Dutch law include the issue of Shares (or the granting of rights to subscribe for Shares): (i) to employees of ICTS or another member of its Group; (ii) against payment-in-kind (contribution other than in cash) and (iii) to persons exercising a previously-granted right to subscribe for Shares. The pre-emptive rights in respect of newly issued Shares or the granting of rights to subscribe for Shares may be restricted or excluded by a resolution of the General Meeting. The General Meeting may delegate the supervisory board of ICTS as another corporate body competent to resolve upon the restriction or exclusion of the pre-emptive rights if the supervisory board has also been delegated as the competent body to resolve upon the issue of Shares for a specified period not exceeding five years (which period can be extended from time to time for further periods not exceeding five years). A resolution of the General Meeting to exclude or restrict pre-emptive rights or to authorize the supervisory board to exclude or restrict pre-emptive rights requires an absolute majority of the votes cast, in a general meeting in which at least half of the issued share capital of ICTS is present or represented. Such resolution of the General Meeting to exclude or restrict pre-emptive rights or to authorize the supervisory board to exclude or restrict pre-emptive rights requires a majority of at least two thirds of the votes cast, if less than half of the issued share capital of ICTS is present or represented.

Such resolution was adopted in December 2022 for a period of five years until December 2027, in which the Supervisory Board was designated. The resolution by which the pre-emptive rights are excluded or limited needs to be filed with the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce within eight days of such resolution. A resolution designating another corporate body to resolve upon the restriction or exclusion of the pre-emptive rights cannot be withdrawn unless provided otherwise in such resolution.

ICTS cannot subscribe for Shares in its own capital at the time Shares are issued. Subject to the certain provisions of the Articles of Association, ICTS may acquire fully paid-up Shares provided no consideration is given or provided, (i) ICTS’s net equity less the payment required to pay the acquisition, does not fall below the sum of called-up and paid-in share capital and any reserves to be maintained by Dutch law and/or the Articles of Association, (ii), (ii) the Management Board has been authorized thereto by the General Meeting and (iii) ICTS is entitled to buy back up to 20% of the issued Shares. Any acquisition by ICTS of Shares that are not fully paid-up shall be null and void.

The General Meeting’s authorization to the Management Board to acquire own Shares is valid for a maximum of 18 months. As part of the authorization, the General Meeting must specify the number of Shares that may be repurchased, the manner in which the Shares may be acquired and the price range within which the Shares may be acquired. The authorization is not required for the acquisition of Shares for employees of ICTS , under a scheme applicable to such employees.

Shares (or depositary receipt issued for such Shares) held by ICTS in its own share capital do not carry a right to any distribution. Furthermore, no voting rights may be exercised for any of the Shares (or depositary receipt issued for such Shares) held by ICTS or its subsidiaries, and unless such Shares are subject to the right of usufruct or to a pledge in favor of a person other than ICTS or its subsidiaries and the voting rights were vested in the pledgee or usufructuary before ICTS or its subsidiaries acquired such Shares. ICTS or its subsidiaries may not exercise voting rights in respect of Shares for which ICTS or its subsidiaries have a right of usufruct or a pledge.

The General Meeting (at the proposal of the supervisory board of ICTS) may resolve to reduce the issued share capital by (i) cancelling Shares or (ii) amending the Articles of Association to reduce the nominal value of the Shares of ICTS. In either case, this reduction would be subject to provisions of Dutch law and the Articles of Association. Only Shares held by ICTS or Shares for which it holds the depositary receipts may be cancelled. Under Dutch law, a resolution of the General Meeting to reduce the number of Shares must designate the shares to which the resolution applies and must lay down rules for the implementation of the resolution. A resolution by the General Meeting to reduce the issued share capital of ICTS must be approved by at least a two third majority of the votes cast, in a meeting in which holders of at least half of ICTS’ issued and outstanding share capital is present or represented. The resolution to reduce the issued share capital needs to be filed with the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce and an announcement in a Dutch daily newspaper needs to be published stating that such filings took place (upon which a two-months creditor opposition period starts).

Pursuant to Dutch law and the Articles of Association, the distribution of profits will take place following the adoption of ICTS’ annual accounts by the General Meeting, from which ICTS will determine whether such distribution is permitted. ICTS may make distributions to the Shareholders, whether from profits or from its freely distributable reserves, only insofar as ICTS’ net equity exceeds the sum of the paid-up and called-up share capital plus the reserves required to be maintained by Dutch law or pursuant to the Articles of Association.

Subject to Dutch law and the Articles of Association, the Supervisory Board may determine which part of ICTS’ profits as per its annual accounts for the relevant financial year will be added to the reserves. The remaining part of the profits will be at the disposal of the General Meeting.

Subject to Dutch law and the Articles of Association, the Management Board, with the prior approval of the Supervisory Board, may resolve to distribute an interim dividend if it determines such interim dividend to be justified by ICTS’ profits. For this purpose, the Management Board must prepare an interim statement of assets and liabilities. Such interim statement shall show the financial position of ICTS not earlier than on the first day of the third month before the month in which the resolution to make the interim distribution is announced and all Management Board members need to sign the interim statement of assets and liabilities and if one of them does not so sign, the reason for this omission must be stated. An interim dividend can only be paid if (a) an interim statement of assets and liabilities is drawn up showing that the funds available for distribution are sufficient, and (b) ICTS’ net equity exceeds the sum of the paid-up and called-up share capital plus the reserves required to be maintained by Dutch law or pursuant to the Articles of Association. The interim statement of assets and liabilities needs to be filed with the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce within 8 days after the date on which the resolution to make the distribution is adopted.

An entitlement to any dividend distribution shall be barred five years after the date on which those dividends were released for payment.

The General Meeting will be held at least once a year and no later than six months from the end of the preceding financial year of ICTS. The purpose of the annual General Meeting is to discuss, among other things, the annual report, the adoption of the annual accounts, allocation of profits (including the proposal to distribute dividends), discharge of the Management Board members from liability for their management and the Supervisory Board members from liability for their supervision thereon, filling of any vacancies and other proposals brought up for discussion by the Management Board and the Supervisory Board.

A General Meeting can be convened by the Management Board or the Supervisory Board by a convening notice. Notices convening a general meeting will be mailed to holders of registered shares at least 15 days before the General Meeting and otherwise in other countries as required pursuant to the relevant laws where ICTS’ Shares have been admitted to trading on a trading facility.

All convocations for the General Meetings and all notifications to shareholders shall take place by means of letters sent to the addresses listed in the register of shareholders. Instead of through notice letters, any shareholder that gives his consent, may be sent notice of the meeting by means of a legible and reproducible message electronically sent to the address stated by him for this purpose to ICTS.

Other General meetings may be held as often as deemed necessary by the Management Board and Supervisory Board and must be held if one or more Shareholders or other persons entitled to attend the general meeting jointly representing at least 10% of ICTS’ issued share capital make a written request to the Management Board or the Supervisory Board that a meeting must be held and specifying in detail the business to be dealt with at such meeting.

Under Dutch law, one or more Shareholders representing solely or jointly at least 3% of the ICTS’ issued and outstanding share capital are entitled to request the Management Board to include items on the agenda of the General Meeting, provided that such request is received by ICTS not later than on the 60^th day in advance of the meeting.

The General Meeting is chaired by the chairman of the Supervisory Board or, in his absence, by the person designated for that purpose by the Supervisory Board from its midst or otherwise. If none of the Supervisory Directors is present, the meeting itself shall provide for its Chairmanship.

Each shareholder and each person to whom the law grants this right shall be entitled, either in person or by written proxy, to attend the General Meeting, to address the meeting and, if the voting rights accrue to him, to exercise his voting rights.

The Management Board may resolve that the powers referred to in the paragraph above may be exercised by means of electronic communication. If a Shareholder and any person with meeting right participates by means of electronic communication, it is required that the electronic communication allows for identification of the Shareholder and any person with meeting right, for such person to directly take notice of the proceedings in the meeting and for the casting of votes (if applicable). Furthermore, it shall be required that the electronic communication allows for the Shareholder and any person with meeting right to participate in discussions in the meeting.

In deviation from the first paragraph under this section ‘admission’, the Management Board may determine that such persons shall be deemed to have the right to vote and the right to attend the General Meeting as at a time to be determined by the Management Board are registered as shareholders in one or more registers designated by the Management Board, regardless of who is entitled to the relevant Shares at the time of the General Meeting. The notice convening the meeting must state the registration date and also indicate the manner in which registration may take place and the manner in which shareholders may exercise their rights. The Management Board determines the manner in which shareholders may have themselves registered and the manner in which they may exercise their rights. The registration date shall be determined with due observance of applicable statutory provisions.

Admission to the General Meeting shall be granted to the Supervisory Board members, the Management Board members and all other persons entitled to admission by law. The General Meeting may grant access to the meeting to persons other than those referred to above. Management board members and Supervisory Board members shall as such have an advisory vote in the General Meeting.

Each Share entitles the holder to cast one vote. Resolutions of the General Meeting are adopted by an absolute majority of the votes cast in a meeting where at least 50% the issued share capital of ICTS is represented, unless Dutch law or the Articles of Association prescribe a larger majority. Resolutions of the General Meeting to amend the Articles of Association, to reduce the issued share capital, to dissolve ICTS or to merge shall be passed by a majority of at least two-thirds of the votes cast representing at least half of the issued share capital.

Blank votes and invalid votes shall be considered votes not cast. They shall count towards the determination of a quorum. Under Dutch law, no votes may be cast at a General Meeting in respect of Shares which are held by ICTS itself.

ICTS has a two-tier board structure comprising of the Management Board (bestuur) and the Supervisory Board (raad van commissarissen).

The Management Board is collectively responsible for ICTS’ general affairs and is in charge of the day-to-day management, formulating strategies and policies, and setting and achieving ICTS’ objectives. The Supervisory Board supervises the Management Board and the general affairs of ICTS and the business connected with it and provides the Management Board with advice.

The Management Board is the executive body of ICTS, collectively responsible for, among other things, defining and attaining ICTS’ objectives, determining ICTS’ strategy and risk management policy, the day-to-day management, the ICTS’ general affairs and ICTS’ representation, subject to the supervision of the Supervisory Board. The Management Board may perform all acts necessary or useful for achieving ICTS’ objectives, with the exception of those acts that are prohibited by law or by the Articles of Association. The Management Board may allocate its responsibilities and powers to its individual members. All Managing Directors remain collectively responsible for proper management regardless of the allocation of tasks. In performing their duties, the Managing Directors must carefully consider and shall act in accordance with the interests of ICTS and the business connected with it, taking into consideration the interests of all corporate stakeholders, such as Shareholders, creditors, employees, customers, patient populations and suppliers.

Subject to certain exceptions following from Dutch law, the Management Board as a whole is authorized to represent ICTS. In addition, should the Management Board be comprised of two or more members, two Management Board members acting jointly are also authorized to represent ICTS.

The Articles of Association provide that the Management Board shall consist of one or more members and that the General Meeting determines the exact number of Management Board members.

The General Meeting appoints the Management Board members. Management Board members are appointed by the General meeting for an indefinite period.

The General Meeting and the Supervisory Board may suspend Management Board members at any time, and the General Meeting may dismiss Management Board members at any time. A General Meeting must be held within three months after a suspension of a Management Board member has taken effect, in which meeting a resolution must be adopted to either terminate or extend the suspension. Provided if such suspension is not terminated, the suspension does not last longer than three months in aggregate. The suspended Management Board member must be given the opportunity to account for his or her actions at that meeting. If neither such resolution is adopted nor the General Meeting has resolved to dismiss the Management Board member, the suspension will cease after the period of suspension has expired.

In the event of a vacant seat or upon inability to act of one or more Management Board members, the remaining Management Board members or the only remaining Management Board member shall temporarily be in charge with the exercise of the duties and powers of the Management Board member(s)in question. In the event all seats are vacant or upon inability to act of all Management Board members, or the sole Management Board member, as the case may be, the Supervisory Board shall have the authority to temporarily entrust the exercise of the duties and powers of the Management Board members to one or more persons (either or not from amongst its mid).

The Management Board decides by majority vote. If there is a tie in voting, the proposal shall be deemed to have been rejected. The Management Board may also pass resolutions outside of a meeting, provided they are in writing, all Management Board members have cast their votes and none of them has objected to this manner of decision making.

A Management Board member shall not participate in deliberations and the decision-making process in the event of a direct or indirect personal conflict of interest between that Management Board member and ICTS and the enterprise connected with it. If there is such personal conflict of interest in respect of all, the decision shall be taken by the Supervisory Board.

The role of the Supervisory Board is to supervise the conduct and policies of the Management Board and the general affairs of ICTS and the business connected with it as well as to provide the Management Board with advice. The Supervisory Board members are not authorized to represent ICTS. In performing their duties, the Supervisory Board members are required to be guided by the interests of ICTS and the business connected with it, and shall consider the interests of the ICTS’ stakeholders, which include but are not limited to its shareholders, creditors, employees, customers and suppliers. The Supervisory Board may, at ICTS’ expense, seek the advice which it deems desirable for the correct performance of its duties. The Supervisory Board has adopted board regulations governing its tasks and responsibilities, addressing (amongst other items) duties and responsibilities, its committees, meetings and its relationship with the Management Board and the General Meeting.

The Articles of Association provide that the Supervisory Board shall consist of one or more members and that the General Meeting determines the exact number of Supervisory Board members. Only individuals can be appointed as Supervisory Board members.

The members of the Supervisory Board are appointed by the General Meeting for a term of one year.

The General Meeting may suspend and dismiss Supervisory Board members at any time. A General Meeting must be held within three months after a suspension of a Supervisory Board member has taken effect, in which meeting a resolution must be adopted to either terminate or extend the suspension, provided that in the case that such suspension is not terminated, the suspension does not last longer than three months in aggregate. The suspended Supervisory Board member must be given the opportunity to account for his or her actions at that meeting. If neither such resolution is adopted nor the General Meeting has resolved to dismiss the Supervisory Board member, the suspension will cease after the period of suspension has expired.

In the event of a vacant seat or upon inability to act of one or more Supervisory Board members, the remaining Supervisory Board members or the only remaining Supervisory Board member shall temporarily be in charge with the exercise of the duties and powers of the Supervisory Board member(s)in question. In the event all seats are vacant or upon inability to act of all Supervisory Board members, or the sole Supervisory Board member, as the case may be, the General Meeting shall have the authority to temporarily entrust the exercise of the duties and powers of the Supervisory Board members to one or more persons.

In a meeting of the Supervisory Board, each Supervisory Board member is entitled to cast one vote. A Supervisory Board member may grant a written proxy to another Supervisory Board member (if in office) to represent him at a meeting. All resolutions by the Supervisory Board are adopted by the favorable vote of a majority of the Supervisory Board members present or represented at the meeting (and in respect of whom no conflict of interest exists). If there is a tie in voting, the proposal is rejected.

The Supervisory Board may also adopt resolutions outside a meeting, in writing, provided that the proposal concerned is submitted to all Supervisory Board members then in office and provided that none of them objects to such decision-making process.

A Supervisory Board member shall not participate in the deliberations and decision-making process in the event of a conflict of interest between that Supervisory Board member and ICTS and the enterprise connected with it. If there is such a personal conflict of interest in respect of all Supervisory Board members, the preceding sentence does not apply and the Supervisory Board shall maintain its authority.

The financial year of ICTS coincides with the calendar year. Annually within five months after the end of the financial year, the Management Board prepares the annual accounts, which can be extend by no more than five months by the General Meeting on the basis of special circumstances. The annual accounts must be accompanied by the Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, an annual report, a report by the Management Board and a report by the Supervisory Board and certain other information required under Dutch law. All Management Board members and Supervisory Board members sign the annual accounts and if one of them does not so sign, the reason for this omission must be stated. The Management Board must make the annual accounts, the annual report and other information required under Dutch law available for inspection by the Shareholders and other persons entitled to attend and address the General Meeting at the offices of ICTS from the day of the notice convening the annual General Meeting. The annual accounts must be adopted by the General Meeting at the annual General Meeting.

With due observance of Article 19 paragraph 4 of the Articles of Association, adoption of the annual accounts by the General Meeting without any caveats constitutes discharge for the Management Board members and the Supervisory Board members from liability for the performance of their respective duties for the past financial year.

In order to discharge the Management Board members and Supervisory Board members from liability a separate resolution thereto needs to be adopted by the General Meeting (which resolution can be adopted by separate resolution in the same meeting in which the annual accounts will be adopted).

Under Dutch law, this discharge is not absolute and will not be effective with respect to matters which are not disclosed to the Shareholders.

Only the General Meeting may resolve to amend the Articles of Association. A proposal to amend the Articles of Association must be included in the notice convening the General Meeting. A copy of the proposal containing the verbatim text of the proposed amendment must be available at ICTS for inspection by every Shareholder of ICTS and every holder of meeting right until the end of the General Meeting.

A resolution by the General Meeting to amend the Articles of Association must be approved by at least a two third majority of the votes cast, in a meeting in which holders of more than half of ICTS’ issued and outstanding share capital is present or represented.

A proposal to dissolve ICTS must be included in the notice convening the General Meeting. A resolution by the General Meeting to dissolve ICTS must be approved by at least a two third majority of the votes cast, representing at least half of ICTS’ issued and outstanding share capital.

If the General Meeting has resolved to dissolve ICTS, the Management Board members will be charged with the liquidation of the business of ICTS in accordance with Dutch law and the Articles of Association under supervision of the Supervisory Board. During liquidation, the provisions of the Articles of Association will remain in force as far as possible.

Any surplus remaining after settlement of all debts and liquidation costs will be distributed to the Shareholders in proportion to the amounts contributed on each Share held by them.

For material contracts See “Item 8 - Financial Information”.

There are no governmental laws, decrees or regulations in The Netherlands, ICTS’ jurisdiction of organization, that restrict ICTS’ export or import of capital in any material respect, including, but not limited to, foreign exchange controls.

There are no limitations imposed by Dutch corporate law or ICTS’ charter documents on the right of non-resident or foreign owners to hold or vote Shares.

The following discussion summarizes the material anticipated U.S. federal income tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of shares by a U.S. Holder (as defined below). This summary deals only with shares held as capital assets and does not deal with the tax consequences applicable to all categories of investors some of which (such as tax-exempt entities, banks, broker-dealers, investors who hold shares as part of hedging or conversion transactions and investors whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar) may be subject to special rules.

The summary does not purport to be a complete analysis or listing of all the potential tax consequences of holding shares, nor does it purport to furnish information in the same detail or with the attention to an investor's specific tax circumstances that would be provided by an investor's own tax adviser. Accordingly, U.S. holders of shares are advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to their particular circumstances and with respect to the effects of U.S. federal, state, local, or other laws to which they may be subject.

As used herein, the term “U.S. Holder” means a beneficial owner of shares that is (i) for United States federal income tax purposes a citizen or resident of the United States of America, (ii) a corporation or other entity created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any political subdivision thereof, (iii) a trust if a court within the United States of America is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of the trust and one or more United States persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust, or (iv) an estate, the income of which is subject to United States federal income taxation regardless of its source.

The summary is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), judicial decisions, administrative pronouncements, and existing and proposed Treasury Department regulations, changes to any of which after the date of this Annual Report on Form 20-F could apply on a retroactive basis and affect the tax consequences described herein.

For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the gross amount of distributions, if any, (including any withholding tax thereon) made by the Company out of its current or accumulated earnings and profits (as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles) will be included in the gross income of a direct U.S. Holder as foreign source dividend income on the date of receipt, but in the case of a U.S. Holder that is a corporation, note that such dividend income generally will not be eligible for a dividends received deduction unless the Company constitutes a so-called “specified 10%-owned foreign corporation” with respect to such a U.S. Holder.

Subject to the discussion below regarding passive foreign investment companies, the Company should be considered to be a “qualified foreign corporation” so that such dividends should be eligible to be taxed as net capital gains (at a maximum U.S. federal rate of 20 percent in the hands of a non-corporate U.S. Holder) plus potentially a net investment income tax (for non-corporate U.S. Holders) at a maximum rate of 3.8%.

Distributions in excess of the earnings and profits of the Company will be treated, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, first as non-taxable to the extent of the U.S. Holder's basis in the shares (resulting in a corresponding reduction in such U.S. Holder’s basis, thereby increasing the amount of any gain and decreasing the amount of any loss realized on the subsequent disposition of such shares) and then as a gain from the sale or exchange of the shares. The amount of any dividend paid in Euros generally will be determined based on the U.S. dollar value of the Euro on the date of receipt regardless of whether the U.S. Holder converts the payment into U.S. dollars.

The declaration of dividends will be at the discretion of the Company’s Supervisory Board of directors and will depend upon the Company’s earnings, capital requirements, financial position, general economic conditions, and other pertinent factors. The Company cannot assure Holders that dividends will be paid in the future.

U.S. Holders will generally be entitled to claim a credit against their United States federal income tax liability for the amount of Netherlands dividend withholding tax imposed on dividends paid to U.S. Holders. See Netherlands Dividend Withholding Tax.

U.S. Holders who are entitled to the benefits of a reduced rate of Netherlands dividend withholding tax under the tax treaty between the United States of America and the Netherlands will be allowed a credit for only the amount of withholding tax provided for under the U.S. Tax Treaty (generally 15%).

However, the full amount of the dividend, including any withheld amounts, generally will be subject to current United States federal income taxation whether or not such Holder is entitled to a tax benefit for the credit of the amount withheld. In the event the Company pays a dividend to a U.S. Holder out of the earnings of a non-Dutch subsidiary, however, it is possible that under certain circumstances that such U.S. Holder would not be entitled to claim a credit for a portion of any Dutch taxes withheld by the Company from such dividend. Based on historic economics, the portion of Dutch withholding tax that may not be creditable in this instance should equal a maximum of 3% of the gross amount of such dividend (or 20% of the Dutch taxes withheld in the case of a U.S. Holder entitled to claim a 15% withholding rate under the U.S. Tax Treaty). This limitation would potentially apply only under circumstances where the Company pays dividends on the shares.

Depending on the particular circumstances of the U.S. Holder, dividends accrued from shares will generally be classified, for foreign tax credit purposes, as passive income. A U.S. Holder who finds it more advantageous because of foreign tax credit limitations to claim the Netherlands dividend withholding tax as a deduction instead of a credit may do so, but only for a year for which such Holder does not claim a credit for any foreign taxes. If the U.S. Holder is a U.S. partnership, trust, or estate, any tax credit is available only to the extent that the income derived by such partnership, trust, or estate is subject to U.S. tax on the income of a resident either in its hands or in the hands of its partners or beneficiaries, as the case may be.

Subject to the discussion below regarding passive foreign investment companies, U.S. Holders will recognize capital gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes on the sale or other disposition of shares in an amount equal to the difference between the U.S. dollar value of the amount realized and the U.S. Holder's adjusted tax basis in the shares. In general, a U.S. Holder's adjusted tax basis in the shares will be equal to the amount paid by the U.S. Holder for such shares reduced (but not below zero) by any distribution in excess of the earnings and profits of the Company. For shares held for one year or less, any such gain or loss will generally be treated as short-term gain or loss. Short-term capital gains are taxed at the same rate as ordinary income.

If the shares have been held for more than a year, any such gain or loss will generally be treated as long-term capital gain or loss. U.S. Holders are advised to consult a competent tax adviser regarding applicable capital gains tax provisions and sourcing of capital gains and losses for foreign tax credit purposes.

An individual U.S. Holder may be subject to U.S. gift and estate taxes on shares in the same manner and to the same extent as on other types of personal property.

Payments in respect of the shares may be subject to information reporting to the IRS and to a 24% U.S. backup withholding tax. Backup withholding generally will not apply, however, to a Holder who furnishes a correct U.S. taxpayer identification number or certificate of foreign status and makes any other required certification or a beneficial owner who is otherwise exempt from backup withholding. Generally, a U.S. Holder will provide such certification on Form W-9 (Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification) and a non-US Holder will provide any required certification on a version of Form W-8 (Certificate of Foreign Status).

Management has determined that the Company has not been a passive foreign investment company (“PFIC”) for United States federal income tax purposes for prior taxable years and believes that the Company will not be treated as a PFIC for the current and future taxable years, but this conclusion is a factual determination made annually and is thus subject to change. The Company would be a PFIC with respect to a U.S. Holder if, for any taxable year in which such U.S. Holder held shares, either (i) at least 75% of the Company’s gross income for the taxable year is passive income, or (ii) at least 50% of the Company’s assets are assets that produce or are held for the production of passive income. Under a “look-through” rule, the Company and its corporate subsidiaries will take into account a pro rata share of the income and the assets of any corporation in which it owns, directly or indirectly, 25% or more of the stock by value.

Passive income generally includes dividends, interest, royalties, rents (other than rents and royalties derived from the active conduct of a trade or business and not derived from a related person), annuities, and gains from assets that produce passive income. The 50% asset test would apply to the Company based on fair market values.

If the Company is a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. Holder holds shares, the U.S. Holder will be subject to special tax rules with respect to any “excess distribution” that the U.S. Holder receives on shares, which will include any gain the U.S. Holder realizes from a sale or other disposition (including a pledge) of the shares unless the U.S. Holder makes a “qualified electing fund” or “mark-to-market” election as discussed below.

With respect to distributions the U.S. Holder receives in a taxable year, the portion of such distributions that are greater than 125% of the average annual distributions the U.S. Holder received during the shorter of the three preceding taxable years or the U.S. Holder’s holding period for the shares will be treated as an excess distribution.

Under these special tax rules relating to excess distributions received from a PFIC:

The tax liability for the amounts of any “excess distribution” allocated to years prior to the year of the distribution of disposition cannot be offset by any net operating losses, and gains (but not losses) realized on the sale of the shares cannot be treated as capital, even if the U.S. Holder holds the shares as capital assets.

If the Company were to become a PFIC, a U.S. Holder may avoid taxation under the excess distribution rules discussed above by making a “qualified electing fund” election to include the U.S. Holder’s share of the Company’s income on a current basis. However, a U.S. Holder may make a qualified electing fund election only if the Company, as a PFIC, furnishes the shareholder annually with certain tax information. Management has not decided whether, or under what circumstances, the Company would prepare or provide such information. Alternatively, if the Company were to become a PFIC, a U.S. Holder might, depending on the volume of trading of our stock, make a mark-to-market election to elect out of the excess distribution rules discussed above.

If a U.S. Holder makes a mark-to-market election for the shares, the U.S. Holder would include in income each year an amount equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the shares as of the close of the U.S. Holder’s taxable year over the U.S. Holder’s adjusted basis in such shares on such date. A U.S. Holder is allowed a deduction for the excess, if any, of the adjusted basis of the shares over their fair market value as of the close of the taxable year only to the extent of any net mark-to-market gains on the shares included in the U.S. Holder’s income for prior taxable years. Amounts included in a U.S. Holder’s income under a mark-to-market election, as well as gain on the actual sale or other dispositions of the shares are treated as ordinary income. Ordinary loss treatment also applies to the deductible portion of any mark-to-market loss on the shares, as well as to any loss realized on the actual sale or disposition of the shares, to the extent that the amount of such loss does not exceed the net mark-to-market gains previously included for such shares. A U.S. Holder’s basis in the shares will be adjusted to reflect any such income or loss amounts.

The mark-to-market election is available only for stock which is regularly traded on a national securities exchange that is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the national market system established pursuant to section 11A of the Exchange Act, or any exchange or market that the IRS has determined has rules sufficient to carry out the purposes of the income tax rules. There can be no assurance that the Company will satisfy the requirements so as to allow the making of a mark-to-market election.

We are subject to the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In accordance with these requirements, the Company files reports and other information with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). These materials may be inspected at the Company’s office in Schiphol-Oost, The Netherlands. Documents filed with the SEC may also be read and copied at the SEC’s public reference room at 100 F Street N.E. Room 1580 Washington, DC 20549 USA. For further information please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. All the SEC filings made electronically by ICTS are available to the public on the SEC web site at http://www.sec.gov (commission file number 0-28542). Those reports are also available free of charge at www.ictsintl.com.

Not applicable

Foreign Currency Exchange Risk - applies to our operations outside the USA. In 2023, approximately 23% of the Company’s revenues were derived in the United States of America, and approximately 77% was derived in Europe and the Far East. The Company is subject to market risks associated with foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. We utilize some derivative instruments to manage the exposure to currency risk relating salaries in Israel. As such, significant foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations can have a material impact of the Company’s financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Interest Rate Risk – As the Company currently doesn’t have in use any line of credit and the interest rate on convertible notes payable to a related party is fix, the Company is not subject to changes in interest rates based on Federal Reserve actions and/or general market conditions. The Company does not utilize derivative instruments to manage exposure to interest rate risk. As of December 31, 2023, an increase of 1% in the interest rate would increase the Company’s interest expense for the Company’s lines of credit with a maximum effect of $0.1 million.

Not applicable.

Not applicable.

(a) Our management, including our Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(d) and 15d-15(d) of the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this annual report (the “Evaluation Date”).

Based on such evaluation, the Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the Evaluation Date, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

(b) Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act. Our management, including our Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework and criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, our management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2023. Notwithstanding the foregoing, there can be no assurance that our internal control over financial reporting will detect or uncover all failures of persons within the Company to comply with our internal procedures, as all internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective may not prevent or detect misstatements.

This annual report does not include an attestation report of our registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by our registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the SEC that permit us to provide only management’s report in this annual report.

(c) On the evaluation conducted by our Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rules 13a-15(d) and 15d-15(d) under the Exchange Act, our management has concluded that there was no change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2023 that materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

The members of the Audit Committee consist of Philip M. Getter, Gordon Hausmann and Gail F. Lieberman. All members are independent, with no relationship with management. Mr. Getter and Ms. Lieberman have financial expertise. Mr. Getter is the Chairman of the Audit Committee.

The Company has adopted a Code of Ethics for principal’s executive officers and senior financial officers.

The following table sets forth the aggregate fees billed by our independent registered public accounting firm, Mazars USA LLP for services rendered to us during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.

The audit committee has considered whether the provision of these services is compatible with maintaining the principal accountant’s independence and has concluded that such services are compatible. All fees were reviewed and pre-approved by the audit committee (U.S. Dollars in thousands).

Not applicable.

Not applicable.

Not applicable.

The Company has adopted Dutch law and the U.S. practices.

In the ordinary course of our business, we collect and store confidential data, including intellectual property, proprietary business information and personally identifiable information (including of our employees, customers, suppliers and business partners). We rely extensively on information technology systems, including some systems that are managed by third-party service providers, to securely process, store and transmit such confidential data in order to conduct our business. These systems include programs and processes relating to internal and external communications, ordering and managing materials from suppliers, collecting, processing and storing data as processing transactions, processing payments to employees and vendors, generating our financial results for each reporting period, summarizing and reporting results of operations, and complying with information technology security compliance and other regulatory, legal or tax requirements.

 

On May 2nd 2022, one of the subsidiaries of ICTS, I-SEC International Security B.V., has experienced a data breach incident. This was a ransomware incident that involved the exposure of information in the Company’s possession including human resources data of current and former employees. The Company has taken steps in an effort to address the incident. The immediate expenses following the incident were approximately $0.8 million. The incident did not affect its relationships with its customers or any third parties.

In the event that we experience a cybersecurity incident, our subsidiaries have a cybersecurity incident response policy that sets forth the applicable processes, roles, engagements, escalations and notifications to be executed in order to promptly respond to such threats. Depending on its nature and scale, a cybersecurity threat may be managed within our CISOs  or escalated to our management, and Board of Directors and Audit Committee, as appropriate.

As part of its overall risk oversight function, our Audit Committee, which is comprised entirely of independent directors, considers cybersecurity risks in connection with overseeing our overall enterprise risk management system. As part of our cybersecurity risk management, we maintain industry standard procedures and policies, which are reviewed and revised from time to time, to proactively assess, identify and manage potential cybersecurity risks and respond to any actual cybersecurity threats and incidents. Such procedures and policies include: actively monitoring our information technology systems to ensure compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements; engaging third-party consultants and other service providers to monitor and, as appropriate, respond to cybersecurity risks; requiring our service providers and our business partners who connect directly to our information technology systems, to comply with our cybersecurity standards, due diligence processes and be subject to our non-disclosure and other confidentiality agreements that include cybersecurity-related terms; providing and analyzing specialized industry sector intelligence on cybersecurity threats; regularly testing our cybersecurity systems and disaster preparedness, including our back-up information technology systems; developing and updating incident response plans to address potential cybersecurity threats; and maintaining and training our personnel on cybersecurity incident reporting procedures."

See Item 18.

The Consolidated Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedule of the Company as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, including the report of our independent registered public accounting firm thereon are set forth on pages F-1 to F-38.

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.