EXICURE, INC. current report, 16 January 2023

Exicure, Inc. (XCUR) Form 8-K Summary

Business Context and Reporting Period

This Current Report on Form 8-K was filed by Exicure, Inc. on January 20, 2023, covering events occurring on January 16, 2023. The Company is an emerging growth company incorporated in Delaware with its principal executive offices in Chicago, Illinois. Its common stock trades on The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC under the symbol "XCUR."

Key Financial Metrics

This filing does not contain financial statements, revenue, profit, cash flow, margin, debt, or liquidity metrics. The only financial data disclosed relates to a pending capital raise:

  • Private Placement: Agreement to sell 3,400,000 shares of common stock at $1.60 per share to CBI USA, Inc.
  • Expected Proceeds: Approximately $5.44 million (subject to closing conditions).
  • Expected Closing Date: No later than February 10, 2023.

Material Changes

The filing reports two significant corporate governance changes:

  • Nasdaq Non-Compliance: On January 19, 2023, the Company received notice from Nasdaq regarding non-compliance with Listing Rule 5605. The Board currently lacks a majority of independent directors, and the Audit Committee does not consist of three independent directors.
  • Director Departure: On January 16, 2023, Jiyoung Hwang resigned from the Board of Directors effective immediately. The resignation was not due to any disagreement with the Company regarding operations, policies, or practices.

Outlook, Risks, and Management Commentary

Cure Period and Compliance: The Company has been granted a cure period to regain compliance with Nasdaq requirements. This period expires at the earlier of the 2023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders or December 30, 2023. If the Annual Meeting is held before June 28, 2023, compliance must be evidenced by June 28, 2023. Management is actively searching for a qualified independent director to appoint to the Board and Audit Committee.

Risks and Contingencies: Forward-looking statements in the filing highlight risks regarding the ability to regain Nasdaq compliance, identify an independent director, and consummate the Private Placement. Risks include failure to satisfy closing conditions, inability to secure regulatory approvals, and potential litigation.

Investor Verification Checklist

  • Confirm the Company's progress in identifying and appointing a new independent director to satisfy Nasdaq Listing Rule 5605.
  • Verify the status of the Private Placement with CBI USA, Inc., specifically whether the closing occurred by the expected date of February 10, 2023.
  • Monitor subsequent filings for the date of the 2023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to determine the exact deadline for regaining Nasdaq compliance.
  • Review the Company's most recent 10-K or 10-Q for baseline financial health, as this 8-K contains no operational financial data.