Table of Contents
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 20-F
(Mark One)
☐ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR 12(g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT
OF 1934
☒ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023.
OR
☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
☐ SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF
OR
1934
Date of event requiring this shell company report
For the transition period from to
Commission file number: 001-39173
I-MAB
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
N/A
(Translation of Registrant’s Name Into English)
Cayman Islands
(Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)
2440 Research Boulevard, Suite 400
Rockville, MD 20850
United States
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
Joseph Skelton, Chief Financial Officer
2440 Research Boulevard, Suite 400
Rockville, MD 20850
United States
Phone: (240) 745-6330
(Name, Telephone, and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class
American depositary shares, each ten
(10) American depositary shares representing
twenty-three (23) ordinary shares
Ordinary shares, par value US$0.0001 per share*
Trading Symbol
IMAB
Name of Each Exchange
On Which Registered
The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC
(The Nasdaq Global Market)
The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC
(The Nasdaq Global Market)
*
Not for trading, but only in connection with the listing on the Nasdaq Global Market of American depositary shares.
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
(Title of Class)
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Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:
None
(Title of Class)
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report:
185,613,662 ordinary shares outstanding, par value of US$0.0001 per share, excluding 660,200 ordinary shares issued to our depositary bank for bulk issuance of ADSs
reserved for future issuances upon the exercising or vesting of awards granted under our share incentive plans and 7,799,867 treasury shares in the form of ADSs that we
repurchased under our share repurchase programs, as of December 31, 2023.
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. ☐ Yes ☒ No
If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934. ☐ Yes ☒ No
Note – Checking the box above will not relieve any registrant required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 from their
obligations under those Sections.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the
preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past
90 days. ☒ Yes ☐ No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T
(§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). ☒ Yes ☐ No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or an emerging growth company. See definition of
“large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ☐
Accelerated filer ☒
Non-accelerated filer ☐
Emerging growth company
☐
If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the
extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards† provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
† The term “new or revised financial accounting standard” refers to any update issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board to its Accounting Standards
Codification after April 5, 2012.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial
reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☒
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the
correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the
registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). ☐
Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
U.S. GAAP ☒
International Financial Reporting Standards as issued
by the International Accounting Standards Board
☐
Other ☐
If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.
☐ Item 17 ☐ Item 18
If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). ☐ Yes ☒ No
(APPLICABLE ONLY TO ISSUERS INVOLVED IN BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDINGS DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed all documents and reports required to be filed by Sections 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 subsequent to the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court. ☐ Yes ☐ No
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
PART I
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1
IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS
OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
KEY INFORMATION
INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES
MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
THE OFFER AND LISTING
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES
DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF
PROCEEDS
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT
CODE OF ETHICS
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES
PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS
CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE
DISCLOSURE REGARDING FOREIGN JURISDICTIONS THAT PREVENT INSPECTIONS
INSIDER TRADING POLICIES
CYBERSECURITY
ITEM 1.
ITEM 2.
ITEM 3.
ITEM 4.
ITEM 4A.
ITEM 5.
ITEM 6.
ITEM 7.
ITEM 8.
ITEM 9.
ITEM 10.
ITEM 11.
ITEM 12.
PART II
ITEM 13.
ITEM 14.
ITEM 15.
ITEM 16A.
ITEM 16B.
ITEM 16C.
ITEM 16D.
ITEM 16E.
ITEM 16F.
ITEM 16G.
ITEM 16H.
ITEM 16I.
ITEM 16J.
ITEM 16K.
PART III
ITEM 17.
ITEM 18.
ITEM 19.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
EXHIBITS
SIGNATURES
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2
4
4
4
4
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112
128
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150
150
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Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION
Unless otherwise indicated and except where the context otherwise requires, references in this annual report on Form 20-F to:
● “ADRs” refer to the American depositary receipts that evidence our ADSs;
● “ADSs” refer to our American depositary shares, each ten (10) ADSs represent twenty-three (23) ordinary shares;
● “China” or “the PRC” refers to the People’s Republic of China, excluding, for the purposes of this annual report only, Hong
Kong, Macau and Taiwan, and “Greater China” does not exclude Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan;
● “CRO” refers to a contract research organization;
● “FDA” refers to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration;
● “divested PRC subsidiaries” refer to I-Mab Biopharma Co., Ltd., which was divested along with the Greater China assets and
business operations in 2024, and Zhejiang Tianli Pharmaceutical Sales Co., Ltd., which was separately divested in 2023;
● “Greater China assets and business operations” refer to the 100% equity interest in I-Mab Biopharma Co., Ltd., or I-Mab
Shanghai, our divested PRC subsidiary that operated our company’s business in China, including (i) the Greater China portfolio
and (ii) the operations of the research & development center of I-Mab Shanghai;
● “Greater China portfolio” refers to the investigational drugs with Greater China rights that we divested, including (i) drug
candidates we in-licensed from reputable global biopharmaceutical companies and (ii) drug candidates we developed or co-
developed in-house;
● “Global portfolio” refers to our own in-house developed or co-developed novel or differentiated drug candidates, for most of
which we own ex-Greater China rights;
● “I-Mab,” “we,” “us,” “our company” and “our” refer to I-Mab, a Cayman Islands exempted company, and its subsidiaries, and,
in the context of describing the operations and consolidated financial information prior to the completion of the divestiture
transaction of business operation in China, the divested PRC subsidiaries;
● “IND” refers to investigational new drug;
● “RMB” refers to the legal currency of China;
● “SEC” refers to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission;
● “shares” or “ordinary shares” refer to our ordinary shares, par value US$0.0001 per share;
● “US$,” “U.S. dollars,” “$,” and “dollars” refer to the legal currency of the United States; and
● “HK$” refers to the legal currency of Hong Kong.
In April 2024, we closed the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations. Among other transaction components,
we transferred all of the outstanding equity interest in I-Mab Biopharma Co., Ltd. to I-Mab Biopharma (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd., or I-Mab
Hangzhou, an unconsolidated investee, on a cash-free and debt-free basis, for an aggregate consideration of the RMB equivalent of up to
US$80 million, contingent on I-Mab Hangzhou group’s achievement of certain future regulatory and sales-based milestone events. As a
result of the divestiture transaction closing, from the second quarter of 2024, we have ceased to consolidate the divested entities, assets
and businesses as well as their corresponding financial results, which includes the future development costs of the divested Greater China
assets and business operations.
Unless otherwise specifically stated, the information relating to the business operations is disclosed on a continuing operations basis,
which excludes the divested Greater China assets and business operations. The audited consolidated financial information presented in
this annual report did not take into account the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations that was closed in April
2024. For the year ending December 31, 2024, we expect that our financial condition and results of operations will be materially affected
by the divestiture and our historical results will not be indicative of future financial condition or results of operations.
For the years presented in our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report, our reporting
currency is Renminbi. Unless otherwise noted, all translations from RMB to U.S. dollars and from U.S. dollars to RMB in this annual
report are made at a rate of RMB7.0999 to US$1.00, the exchange rate in effect as of December 29, 2023 as set forth in the H.10
statistical release of The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. We make no representation that any RMB or U.S. dollar
amounts could have been, or could be, converted into U.S. dollars or RMB, as the case may be, at any particular rate, or at all.
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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This annual report on Form 20-F contains forward-looking statements that relate to our current expectations and views of future
events. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results,
performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These
statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigations Reform Act of 1995.
You can identify some of these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,”
“estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “potential,” “continue” or other similar expressions. We have based these
forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events that we believe may affect our
financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. These forward-looking statements include statements
relating to:
● the timing of initiation and completion, and the progress of our drug discovery and research programs;
● the timing and likelihood of regulatory filings and approvals;
● our ability to advance our drug candidates into drugs, and the successful completion of clinical trials;
● the approval, pricing and reimbursement of our drug candidates;
● the commercialization of our drug candidates;
● the market opportunities and competitive landscape of our drug candidates;
● the payment, receipt and timing of any milestone payments in relation to the licensing agreements;
● estimates of our costs, expenses, future revenues, capital expenditures and our needs for additional financing;
● our ability to attract and retain senior management and key employees;
● our future business development, financial condition and results of operations;
● future developments, trends, conditions and competitive landscape in the industry and markets in which we operate;
● our strategies, plans, objectives and goals and our ability to successfully implement these strategies, plans, objectives and goals;
● our ability to obtain and maintain protection of intellectual property for our technology and drug candidates;
● our ability to continue to maintain our market position in the biopharmaceutical and biotechnology industries;
● our ability to identify and integrate suitable acquisition targets;
● changes to regulatory and operating conditions in our industry and markets;
● the expected aggregate consideration for the divestiture of I-Mab Shanghai and the total amount of potential repurchase
obligations owed by I-Mab Biopharma Hong Kong Limited, or I-Mab Hong Kong, and our company to the non-participating
shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou; and
● the expected decrease of our research and development expenses and administrative expenses in the near future due to the
divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations.
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You should read this annual report and the documents that we refer to in this annual report and have filed as exhibits to this annual
report completely and with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from what we expect. Other
sections of this annual report discuss factors which could adversely impact our business and financial performance. Moreover, we
operate in an evolving environment. New risk factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible for our management to predict all
risk factors, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may
cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. We qualify all of our forward-looking
statements by these cautionary statements.
You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. The forward-looking statements made in this
annual report relate only to events or information as of the date on which the statements are made in this annual report. Except as
required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated
events.
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PART I
ITEM 1.
IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS
Not applicable.
ITEM 2.
OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
Not applicable.
ITEM 3.
KEY INFORMATION
Our Holding Company Structure
I-Mab is not an operating company but a Cayman Islands holding company with its current business operations primarily conducted
by its subsidiary based in the United States. Investors in our ADSs are purchasing equity interest in a holding company incorporated in
the Cayman Islands instead of equity interest in our operating subsidiaries. This structure involves unique risks to investors who hold our
ADSs.
Historically, we conducted business operations in China through I-Mab Biopharma Co., Ltd., or I-Mab Shanghai, to advance the
Greater China portfolio. In February 2024, we entered into definitive agreements with I-Mab Biopharma (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd., or I-Mab
Hangzhou, an unconsolidated investee of ours, and a group of China-based investors to divest the Greater China assets and business
operations. In April 2024, we closed the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations. Following these transactions, we
currently conduct our business operations primarily through our U.S. subsidiary, and only a small portion of business operations relating
to research and development activities via potential collaboration with I-Mab Shanghai, through our PRC subsidiary. However, any
operations that we may conduct through our PRC subsidiary are subject to complex and evolving PRC laws and regulations. For
example, the PRC government has issued statements and regulatory actions relating to areas such as the regulatory approvals on offshore
offerings and listings by, and foreign investment in, companies with operations in China, and implemented industry-wide regulations,
including cybersecurity and data privacy related regulations. The PRC government has significant authority in regulating any operations
that we may conduct through our PRC subsidiary and may influence any operations that we may conduct through our PRC subsidiary. It
may exert more oversight and control over offerings conducted overseas by, and foreign investment in, issuers with operations in China,
which could significantly limit or completely hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors. Implementation of
industry-wide regulations, including data security or anti-monopoly related regulations, in this nature may cause the value of such
securities to significantly decline.
In addition, we also face risks arising from the prospective uncertainties associated with the ability of the Public Company
Accounting Oversight Board (United States), or the PCAOB, to completely inspect registered public accounting firms headquartered in
China (including our independent auditor). These risks and uncertainties may impact our ability to conduct certain businesses, accept
foreign investments, or list or conduct offerings on a United States or other foreign exchange, and could result in a material adverse
change in our operations and the value of our ADSs, significantly limit or completely hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer
securities to investors, or cause such securities to significantly decline in value. For a detailed description of risks related to doing
business in China, see “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China.”
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Permissions Required from the PRC Authorities for the Offering of Our Securities
The PRC government has promulgated certain regulations and rules to exert more oversight and control over offerings that are
conducted overseas and/or foreign investment in China-based issuers. In connection with the nature and scale of data processed or
handled by us in our business operations and our historical issuance of securities to foreign investors, under the current PRC laws,
regulations and regulatory rules, as of the date of this annual report, we and our PRC subsidiary, (i) are not required to go through the
filing procedures with regard to the listing and historical issuance of securities by our company to foreign investors with the China
Securities Regulatory Commission, or the CSRC, under the Trial Administrative Measures of the Overseas Securities Offering and
Listing by Domestic Companies, (ii) are not required by the Cyberspace Administration of China, or the CAC, or any of its local
counterparts, to go through the cybersecurity review under the Cybersecurity Review Measures, and (iii) have not received or were
denied such permissions by the CSRC or the CAC. Nevertheless, in the event that we conduct any securities offerings in the future that
will be captured by the trial administrative measures, we will have to go through the filing procedures with the CSRC within three
business days following the closing of the securities issuance or offering. For more detailed information, see “Item 3. Key Information—
D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Financial Position and Need for Additional Capital—The approval of and filing with PRC
government authorities may be required in connection with our offshore offerings under PRC law, and, if required, we cannot predict
whether or for how long we will be able to obtain such approval or complete such filing.”
The Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act
Pursuant to the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act, which was enacted on December 18, 2020 and further amended by
the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 signed into law on December 29, 2022, or the HFCAA, if the SEC determines that we have
filed audit reports issued by a registered public accounting firm that has not been subject to inspections by the PCAOB for two
consecutive years, the SEC will prohibit our shares or the ADSs from being traded on a national securities exchange or in the over-the-
counter trading market in the United States. On December 16, 2021, the PCAOB issued a report to notify the SEC of its determination
that the PCAOB was unable to inspect or investigate completely registered public accounting firms headquartered in mainland China and
Hong Kong, including our auditor. In May 2022, the SEC conclusively listed us as a Commission-Identified Issuer under the HFCAA
following the filing of this annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021. On December 15, 2022, the PCAOB
issued a report that vacated its December 16, 2021 determination and removed mainland China and Hong Kong from the list of
jurisdictions where it is unable to inspect or investigate completely registered public accounting firms. For this reason, we were not
identified as a Commission-Identified Issuer under the HFCAA after we filed our annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended
December 31, 2022, and do not expect to be so identified after we file this annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended
December 31, 2023. Each year, the PCAOB will determine whether it can inspect and investigate completely audit firms in mainland
China and Hong Kong, among other jurisdictions. If the PCAOB determines in the future that it no longer has full access to inspect and
investigate completely accounting firms in mainland China and Hong Kong and we continue to use an accounting firm headquartered in
one of these jurisdictions to issue an audit report on our financial statements filed with the SEC, we would be identified as a
Commission-Identified Issuer following the filing of the annual report on Form 20-F for the relevant fiscal year. There can be no
assurance that we would not be identified as a Commission-Identified Issuer for any future fiscal year, and if we were so identified for
two consecutive years, we would become subject to the prohibition on trading under the HFCAA. For more details, see “Item 3. Key
Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—The PCAOB had historically been unable to inspect our
auditor in relation to their audit work performed for our financial statements and the inability of the PCAOB to conduct inspections of
our auditor in the past has deprived our investors with the benefits of such inspections” and “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors
—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—Our ADSs may be prohibited from trading in the United States under the HFCAA in the
future if the PCAOB is unable to inspect or investigate completely auditors located in China. The delisting of the ADSs, or the threat of
their being delisted, may materially and adversely affect the value of your investment.” In the future, we may consider changing our
auditor to a public accounting firm headquartered in the United States.
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Cash and Asset Flows through Our Organization
I-Mab is a holding company with no operations of its own. We primarily conduct our business through our subsidiary in the United
States. As a result, although other means are available for us to obtain financing at the holding company level, our ability to pay
dividends to the shareholders and investors of the ADSs and to service any debt it may incur may depend upon dividends paid by our
subsidiaries. If any of our subsidiaries incur debt on its own behalf in the future, the instruments governing such debt may restrict its
ability to pay dividends to I-Mab. In addition, our PRC subsidiary is permitted to pay dividends to I-Mab only out of its retained
earnings, if any, as determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. Further, our PRC subsidiary is required to
make appropriations to certain statutory reserve funds or may make appropriations to certain discretionary funds, which are not
distributable as cash dividends except in the event of a solvent liquidation of the companies. For more details, see “Item 5. Operating and
Financial Review and Prospects—B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Holding Company Structure.”
Under PRC laws and regulations, our PRC subsidiary is subject to certain restrictions with respect to paying dividends or otherwise
transferring any of their net assets to us. Remittance of dividends by a wholly foreign-owned enterprise out of China is also subject to
examination by the banks designated by SAFE. The amounts restricted include the paid-up capital and the statutory reserve funds of our
existing and divested PRC subsidiaries, totaling RMB486.9 million, RMB490.0 million and RMB492.6 million (US$69.6 million) as of
December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. Furthermore, cash transfers from our PRC subsidiary to entities outside of China are
subject to PRC government control of currency conversion. Shortages in the availability of foreign currency may temporarily delay the
ability of our PRC subsidiary to remit sufficient foreign currency to pay dividends or other payments to us, or otherwise satisfy their
foreign currency denominated obligations. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, no dividends or distributions were
made to I-Mab by our existing subsidiaries and divested PRC subsidiaries.
Under PRC law, I-Mab may provide funding to our PRC subsidiary only through capital contributions or loans, subject to
satisfaction of applicable government registration and approval requirements. In the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, I-
Mab extended loans with outstanding principal amount of RMB1,079.6 million, RMB898.6 million and RMB116.4 million (US$16.4
million), respectively, to our existing intermediate holding companies and subsidiaries and divested PRC subsidiaries.
I-Mab has not declared or paid any cash dividends, nor does it have any present plan to pay any cash dividends on our ordinary
shares in the foreseeable future. We currently intend to retain most, if not all, of our available funds and any future earnings to operate
and develop our business. See “Item 8. Financial Information—A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Dividend
Policy.” For PRC and United States federal income tax considerations of an investment in our ADSs, see “Item 10. Additional
Information—E. Taxation.”
Selected Financial Data
As of December 31, 2023, we had cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments of RMB2.3 billion (US$321.8 million),
compared with RMB3.5 billion as of December 31, 2022. Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations,
we ceased to fund the Greater China portfolio and our cash balance is expected to provide us with adequate near-term funding to support
our focused pipeline of three clinical stage assets.
The following selected consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) data for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022
and 2023, selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 and selected consolidated statements of cash flow
data for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements
included elsewhere in this annual report. The selected consolidated statements of comprehensive loss data for the years ended December
31, 2019 and 2020, selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2019, 2020 and 2021, and selected consolidated
statements of cash flow data for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial
statements that are not included in this annual report. Our consolidated financial statements are prepared and presented in accordance
with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, or U.S. GAAP.
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Our historical results do not necessarily indicate results expected for any future periods. The selected consolidated financial data
should be read in conjunction with, and are qualified in their entirety by reference to, our audited consolidated financial statements and
related notes and “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” below.
For the Year Ended December 31,
Selected Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
2019
RMB
2020
RMB
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
RMB
(in thousands, except for share and per share data)
2023
US$
Data:
Revenues
Licensing and collaboration revenue(1)
Supply of investigational products
Total revenues
Cost of revenues
Expenses
Research and development expenses(2)
Administrative expenses(2)
Impairment of goodwill(3)
(Loss) income from operations
Interest income
Interest expense
Other (expenses) income, net
Equity in loss of affiliates(2)
Fair value change of warrants
(Loss) income before income tax expense
Income tax (expense) benefit
Net (loss) income attributable to I-Mab
Deemed dividend
to Series C-1 preferred
shareholders
at
extinguishment of Series C-1 Preferred Shares
Deemed dividend to Series B-1, B-2 and C preferred shareholders at
modification of Series B-1, B-2 and C Preferred Shares
Net (loss) income attributable to ordinary shareholders
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of nil tax
Total comprehensive (loss) income attributable to I-Mab
Net (loss) income attributable to ordinary shareholders
Weighted-average number of ordinary shares used in calculating
net income (loss) per share(3)
Basic
Diluted
Net (loss) income per share attributable to ordinary shareholders(3)
Basic
Diluted
Net (loss) income per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders(3)
Basic
Diluted
Notes:
30,000
—
30,000
—
1,542,668
—
1,542,668
—
40,115
47,911
88,026
(46,432)
(840,415)
(654,553)
—
(1,464,968)
30,570
(2,991)
(20,205)
—
5,644
(1,451,950)
—
(1,451,950)
(984,689)
(402,409)
(1,212,958)
(899,943)
—
155,570
24,228
(957)
412,892
(108,587)
—
483,146
(12,231)
470,915
—
(2,071,307)
21,333
—
83,162
(367,883)
—
(2,334,695)
3,154
(2,331,541)
(249,665)
28,102
(221,563)
(27,237)
(904,901)
(815,766)
—
(1,969,467)
26,908
(9)
(126,587)
(437,465)
—
(2,506,620)
(697)
(2,507,317)
16,814
10,830
27,644
—
(810,646)
(453,017)
(162,574)
(1,398,593)
51,749
(722)
(38,109)
(80,019)
—
(1,465,694)
—
(1,465,694)
2,368
1,525
3,893
—
(114,177)
(63,806)
(22,898)
(196,988)
7,289
(102)
(5,368)
(11,270)
—
(206,439)
—
(206,439)
(5,283)
—
—
—
—
—
(27,768)
(1,485,001)
10,747
(1,441,203)
(1,485,001)
—
470,915
—
(2,331,541)
—
(2,507,317)
—
(1,465,694)
(120,920)
349,995
470,915
(135,717)
(2,467,258)
(2,331,541)
400,304
(2,107,013)
(2,507,317)
84,497
(1,381,197)
(1,465,694)
—
(206,439)
11,901
(194,538)
(206,439)
7,381,230
7,381,230
134,158,824
157,231,652
174,707,055
174,707,055
189,787,292
189,787,292
191,423,850
191,423,850
191,423,850
141,423,850
(201.19)
(201.19)
(462.74)
(462.74)
3.51
3.00
8.07
6.90
(13.35)
(13.35)
(30.71)
(30.71)
(13.21)
(13.21)
(30.38)
(30.38)
(7.66)
(7.66)
(17.62)
(17.62)
(1.08)
(1.08)
(2.48)
(2.48)
(1) The licensing and collaboration revenue of RMB-249.7 million (US$-36.2 million) was primarily due to a non-cash adjustment of
US$-48.0 million (equivalent to RMB-314.2 million) recorded in the second half of 2022 following the amendment to the original
license and the overall collaboration arrangement with AbbVie Ireland Unlimited Company in August 2022. This overall
amendment led to a lowered probability of achieving a key milestone that was included in the consideration of revenue recognition
in prior years. For more details, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects.”
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(2) Share-based compensation expenses were allocated as follows:
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses
Equity in loss of affiliates
Total
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
RMB RMB RMB RMB RMB US$
For the Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
470
514,733
—
515,203
284,431
209,033
32,707
526,171
201,926
406,683
13,267
621,876
117,876
239,272
13,852
371,000
66,758
126,244
4,815
197,817
9,403
17,781
678
27,862
(3)
In the course of preparing our audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023, We corrected the net
loss per share attributable to ordinary shareholders and net loss per ADS attributable to ordinary sharesholders information
contained in the earnings release reporting our unaudited financial results for the full year ended December 31, 2023, which was
publicly announced and furnished with the SEC through our current report on Form 6-K in March 2024. The amounts reported in
the earnings release were understated by RMB0.47 (US$0.07) and RMB1.08 (US$0.15), respectively. We also reclassified
impairment of goodwill amounted to RMB162.6 million (US$22.9 million) for the year ended December 31, 2023 to loss from
operations, as compared to that reported in the same earnings release.
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The following table presents our selected consolidated statements of balance sheet data as of the dates indicated:
Selected Consolidated Statements of Balance
2019
RMB
2020
RMB
As of December 31,
2022
RMB
2021
RMB
(in thousands)
2023
RMB
US$
Sheet Data:
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
Short-term restricted cash
Accounts receivable
Contract assets
Short-term investments
Inventories
Prepayments and other receivables
Total current assets
Long-term restricted cash
Property, equipment and software
Operating lease right-of-use assets
Intangible assets
Goodwill
Investment accounted for using the equity method
Other non-current assets
Total assets
Total liabilities
Total mezzanine equity
Shareholders’ (deficit)/equity
Ordinary shares(1)
Treasury stock(1)
Additional paid-in capital(1)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Accumulated deficit
Total shareholders’ (deficit)/equity
Total
liabilities, mezzanine
equity
and
1,137,473
55,810
—
—
32,000
—
136,036
1,361,319
—
30,069
16,435
148,844
162,574
—
18,331
1,737,572
668,090
3,104,177
4,758,778
3,523,632
—
130,498
227,391
31,530
—
195,467
5,343,664
—
25,272
14,997
120,444
162,574
664,832
2,010
6,333,793
706,648
—
—
33,081
253,780
753,164
27,237
190,824
4,781,718
—
45,716
112,781
119,666
162,574
352,106
26,634
5,601,195
1,041,635
—
3,214,005
96,764
—
—
235,429
—
80,278
3,626,476
—
60,841
63,125
118,888
162,574
30,850
10,911
4,073,665
1,163,763
—
2,141,445
—
—
—
143,221
—
52,003
2,336,669
58,913
36,511
46,400
118,110
—
12,082
4,282
2,612,967
894,811
—
301,616
—
—
—
20,172
—
7,325
329,113
8,298
5,142
6,535
16,635
—
1,702
603
368,028
126,031
—
6
—
389,379
70,127
(2,494,207)
(2,034,695)
114
—
7,701,116
(50,793)
(2,023,292)
5,627,145
126
—
9,100,777
(186,510)
(4,354,833)
4,559,560
132
(21,249)
9,579,375
213,794
(6,862,150)
2,909,902
133
(56,803)
9,804,379
298,291
(8,327,844)
1,718,156
19
(8,001)
1,380,918
42,013
(1,172,952)
241,997
shareholders’ equity/(deficit)
1,737,572
6,333,793
5,601,195
4,073,665
2,612,967
368,028
Note:
(1)
In the course of preparing our audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023, we corrected the
shareholders’ (deficit)/equity balances of ordinary shares, treasury stock and additional paid-in capital contained in the earnings
release reporting our unaudited financial results for the full year ended December 31, 2023, which was publicly announced and
furnished with the SEC through our current report on Form 6-K in March 2024. The amounts reported in the earnings release were
overstated by RMB2.8 thousand (US$0.4 thousand), RMB25.7 million (US$3.6 million) and RMB25.7 million (US$3.6 million),
respectively.
9
Table of Contents
The following table presents our selected consolidated statements of cash flow data for the years indicated:
Selected Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow
Data:
Net cash (used in) generated from operating activities
Net cash generated from (used in) investing activities
Net cash generated from financing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash
2019
RMB
2020
RMB
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
US$
For the Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
(867,982)
212,462
152,709
433,558
(201,901)
3,440,481
(973,093)
(727,206)
593,924
(1,102,805)
458,382
42,357
(1,304,950)
102,515
7,572
(183,798)
14,439
1,066
equivalents and restricted cash
15,163
(106,643)
(128,771)
389,203
84,452
11,896
Net (decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents and
restricted cash
(487,648)
3,565,495
(1,235,146)
(212,863)
(1,110,411)
(156,397)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning
of the year
1,680,931
1,193,283
4,758,778
3,523,632
3,310,769
466,311
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of the
1,193,283
4,758,778
3,523,632
3,310,769
2,200,358
309,914
year
A. Reserved
B. Capitalization and Indebtedness
Not applicable.
C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds
Not applicable.
D. Risk Factors
Summary of Risk Factors
An investment in our ADSs or ordinary shares involves significant risks. Below is a summary of material risks we face, organized
under relevant headings. These risks are discussed more fully in “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors.”
Risks Related to Our Financial Position and Need for Additional Capital
● We have a limited operating history, which may make it difficult to evaluate our current business and predict our future
performance.
● We have incurred net losses in the past and we may not be able to maintain profitability in the future.
● We recorded net cash outflow from operating activities in the past. We may need to obtain additional financing to fund our
operations. If we are unable to obtain such financing, we may be unable to complete the development and commercialization of
our major drug candidates.
Risks Related to Clinical Development of Our Drug Candidates
● Clinical development involves a lengthy and expensive process with an uncertain outcome, and results of earlier studies and
trials may not be predictive of future trial results.
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● We depend substantially on the success of our drug candidates, all of which are in pre-clinical or clinical development, and our
ability to identify additional drug candidates. If we are unable to successfully identify new drug candidates, complete clinical
development, obtain regulatory approval and commercialize our drug candidates, or experience significant delays in doing so,
our business will be materially harmed.
● We may not be able to identify, discover or in-license new drug candidates, and may allocate our limited resources to pursue a
particular drug candidate or indication and fail to capitalize on drug candidates or indications that may later prove to be more
profitable, or for which there is a greater likelihood of success.
Risks Related to Obtaining Regulatory Approval for Our Drug Candidates
● All material aspects of the research, development and commercialization of pharmaceutical products are heavily regulated.
● The regulatory approval processes of the FDA and other comparable regulatory authorities are time-consuming and may evolve
over time, and if we are ultimately unable to obtain regulatory approval for our drug candidates, our business will be
substantially harmed.
● The failure to obtain a patent term extension and data exclusivity for any product candidates we may develop could increase the
risk of generic competition with our products.
Risks Related to Commercialization of Our Drug Candidates
● Our drug candidates may fail to achieve the degree of market acceptance by physicians, patients, third-party payors and others
in the medical community necessary for commercial success.
● We face intense competition and rapid technological change and the possibility that our competitors may develop therapies that
are similar, more advanced, or more effective than ours, which may adversely affect our financial condition and our ability to
successfully commercialize our drug candidates.
● The manufacture of biopharmaceutical products is a complex process which requires significant expertise and capital
investment, and if we encounter problems in sourcing manufacturing capabilities or manufacturing our future products, our
business could suffer.
Risks Related to Our Reliance on Third Parties
● As we rely on third parties to conduct our pre-clinical studies and clinical trials, if we lose our relationships with these third
parties or if they do not successfully carry out their contractual duties or meet expected deadlines, we may not be able to obtain
regulatory approval for or commercialize our drug candidates and our business could be substantially harmed.
● We plan to continue to rely on third parties to manufacture our drug candidate supplies, and we intend to rely on third parties
for the manufacturing process of our drug candidates, if approved. Our business could be harmed if those third parties fail to
provide us with sufficient quantities of product or fail to do so at acceptable quality levels or prices.
Risks Related to Our Intellectual Property
● If we are unable to obtain and maintain patent and other intellectual property protection for our drug candidates, or if the scope
of such intellectual property rights obtained is not sufficiently broad, third parties could develop and commercialize products
and technologies similar or identical to ours and compete directly against us, and our ability to successfully commercialize any
product or technology may be adversely affected.
● We enjoy only limited geographical protection with respect to certain patents and may not be able to protect our intellectual
property rights throughout the world.
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● Obtaining and maintaining our patent protection depends on compliance with various procedural, document submission, fee
payment, and other requirements imposed by governmental patent agencies, and our patent protection could be reduced or
eliminated for non-compliance with these requirements.
Risks Related to Our Industry, Business and Operations
● We face significant risks related to the transition of our business focus to the U.S. market and our business and prospects may
be materially and adversely affected.
● Our future success depends on our ability to attract, retain and motivate senior management and qualified scientific employees.
● We will need to increase the size and capabilities of our organization, and we may experience difficulties in managing our
development.
● The data and information that we gather in our research and development process could be inaccurate or incomplete, which
could harm our business, reputation, financial condition and results of operations.
Risks Related to Doing Business in China
Although we divested the Greater China assets and business operations, to the extent that we conduct our remaining business
operations in China, we are subject to risks associated with having operations in China.
● We are subject to China’s data privacy and cybersecurity laws, regulations and guidelines and any other future laws and
regulations, which may entail significant compliance costs and adversely affect our business.
● Uncertainties with respect to the PRC legal system could materially and adversely affect us.
● The ability of U.S. authorities to bring actions for violations of U.S. securities law and regulations against us or our directors
may be limited. Therefore, you may not be afforded the same protection as provided to investors in U.S. domestic companies.
General Risks Related to Our ADSs
● The trading price of our ADSs may be volatile, which could result in substantial losses to you.
● We may face an increased risk of securities class action litigation.
Risks Related to Our Financial Position and Need for Additional Capital
We have a limited operating history, which may make it difficult to evaluate our current business and predict our future performance.
We are a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company with a limited operating history. Our operations to date have focused on
organizing and staffing our operations, business planning, raising capital, establishing our intellectual property portfolio and conducting
pre-clinical and clinical trials of our drug candidates. We have not yet demonstrated an ability to successfully manufacture, obtain
marketing approvals for or commercialize our drug candidates. We have no products approved for commercial sale and have not
generated any revenue from the sales of our commercial products. Consequently, any predictions about our future success or viability
may not be as accurate as they could be if we had a longer operating history.
We are focused on the development and potential commercialization of highly differentiated immunotherapies for the treatment of
cancer. Our limited operating history, particularly in light of the rapidly evolving drug research and development industry in which we
operate and the changing regulatory and market environments we encounter, may make it difficult to evaluate our prospects for future
performance. As a result, any assessment of our future performance or viability is subject to significant uncertainty. We will encounter
risks and difficulties frequently experienced by early-stage companies in rapidly evolving fields as we seek to transition to a company
capable of supporting commercial activities. If we do not address these risks and difficulties successfully, our business will suffer.
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We have incurred net losses in the past and we may not be able to maintain profitability in the future.
Investment in the development of biopharmaceutical products is highly speculative as it entails substantial upfront capital
expenditures and significant risks that a drug candidate may fail to demonstrate efficacy and/or safety to gain regulatory or marketing
approvals or become commercially viable. To date, we have financed our activities primarily through public and private placements.
Additionally, we have generated revenue from licensing and collaboration deals, and have started to generate revenue from supply of
investigational products since 2021. We have incurred significant research and development expenses and other expenses related to our
ongoing operations. As a result, we incurred net losses of RMB2,331.5 million in 2021, RMB2,507.3 million in 2022 and RMB1,465.7
million (US$206.4 million) in 2023. Substantially all of our net losses have resulted from costs incurred in connection with our research
and development programs and from general and administrative costs associated with our operations.
We cannot assure you that we will be able to generate net profits in the future. Our ability to achieve and maintain profitability
depends in large part on our ability to out-license some of our commercialization rights and execute our product commercialization
strategies as our business further develops. Accordingly, we intend to continue to invest for the foreseeable future in certain activities
relating to our development, including, but not limited to, the following:
● conducting clinical trials of our drug candidates;
● manufacturing clinical trial materials through contract manufacturing organizations;
● seeking regulatory approvals for our drug candidates;
● commercializing any of our drug candidates for which we have obtained marketing approval;
● hiring additional clinical, operational, financial, quality control and scientific personnel;
● establishing a sales, marketing and commercialization team for any future products that have obtained regulatory approval;
● seeking to identify additional drug candidates;
● obtaining, maintaining, developing and protecting our intellectual property portfolio;
● enforcing and defending any intellectual property-related claims; and
● acquiring or in-licensing other drug candidates, intellectual property and technologies.
Typically, it takes many years to develop one new drug from the time it is discovered to when it becomes available for treating
patients. During the process, we may encounter unforeseen expenses, difficulties, complications, delays and other unknown factors that
may adversely affect our business. The size of our future net losses will depend partially on the rate of the future growth of our expenses,
our ability to generate revenues and the timing and amount of milestone payments and other payments that we receive from or pay to
third parties. If any of our drug candidates fails during clinical trials or does not gain regulatory approval, or, even if approved, fails to
achieve market acceptance, our business may not become profitable. Even if we achieve profitability in the future, we may not be able to
sustain profitability in subsequent periods thereafter. Our prior losses and expected future losses have had, and will continue to have, an
adverse effect on our working capital and shareholders’ equity.
We recorded net cash outflow from operating activities in the past. We may need to obtain additional financing to fund our
operations. If we are unable to obtain such financing, we may be unable to complete the development and commercialization of our
major drug candidates.
Since our inception, our operations have consumed substantial amounts of cash. We had raised over US$400 million in pre-IPO
financing. In the past, we received total net proceeds of approximately US$105.3 million, US$397.2 million and US$105.6 million from
our initial public offering, subsequent private placement, and warrants issued and subsequently exercised in connection with the private
placement, respectively. We spent RMB973.1 million, RMB1,102.8 million and RMB1,305.0 million (US$183.8 million) in net cash to
finance our operations in 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
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Despite the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, we expect to continue to incur significant expenses in
connection with our ongoing activities, particularly as we advance the clinical development of our clinical-stage drug candidates, and
initiate additional clinical trials of, and seek regulatory approval for, these and other future drug candidates.
In addition, if we obtain regulatory approvals for any of our drug candidates, we expect to incur significant commercialization
expenses relating to product manufacturing, marketing, sales and distribution and post-approval commitments to continue monitoring the
efficacy and safety data of our future products on the market. In particular, costs that may be required for the manufacture of any drug
candidate that has received regulatory approval may be substantial. We have incurred and may continue to incur expenses as we create
additional infrastructure to support our operations as a public company. Accordingly, we will need to obtain substantial additional
funding in connection with our continuing operations through public or private equity offerings, debt financing, collaborations or
licensing arrangements or other sources. If we are unable to raise capital when needed or on acceptable terms, we could be forced to
delay, limit, reduce or terminate our research and development programs or any future commercialization efforts.
There have been uncertainties and interruptions to global economy and significant volatility across the financial markets, which had
a cooling effect on the financing and investing activities in general. We believe that our current cash and cash equivalents, together with
our cash generated from operating activities, financing activities, our initial public offering and private placement(s), will be sufficient to
meet our present anticipated working capital requirements and capital expenditures. However, if the volatility in the financial markets
continues, our financing activities in future to raise additional capital may be materially and adversely affected, which may in turn have
an adverse effect on our ability to meet our working capital requirement and our liquidity.
Raising additional capital may cause dilution to the interests to the holders of our ADSs and our shareholders, restrict our operations
or require us to relinquish rights to our technologies or drug candidates.
We may seek additional funding through a combination of asset sales, equity offerings, debt financings, collaborations, licensing
arrangements, strategic alliances or partnerships and government grants or subsidies. To the extent that we raise capital through asset
sales, we can provide no assurance as to the timing of any asset sales or the proceeds that could be realized by us from any such asset
sale.
To the extent that we raise additional capital through the sale of equity or convertible debt securities, your ownership interest will be
diluted, and the terms may include liquidation or other preferences that adversely affect your rights as a holder of our ADSs. The
incurrence of additional indebtedness or the issuance of certain equity securities could give rise to increased fixed payment obligations
and also result in certain additional restrictive covenants, such as limitations on our ability to incur additional debt or issue additional
equity, limitations on our ability to acquire or license intellectual property rights and other operating restrictions that could adversely
impact our ability to conduct our business. In addition, the issuance of additional equity securities, or the possibility of such issuance,
may cause the market price of our ADSs to decline.
In the event we enter into collaborations or licensing arrangements in order to raise capital, we may be required to accept
unfavorable terms, including relinquishing or licensing to a third party our rights to technologies or drug candidates on unfavorable
terms, which we would have otherwise sought to develop or commercialize on our own or reserve for future potential arrangements when
we are more likely to achieve more favorable terms.
The approval of and filing with PRC government authorities may be required in connection with our offshore offerings under PRC
law, and, if required, we cannot predict whether or for how long we will be able to obtain such approval or complete such filing.
The Regulations on Mergers and Acquisitions of Domestic Enterprises by Foreign Investors adopted by six PRC regulatory agencies
in 2006 and amended in 2009, require an overseas special purpose vehicle formed for listing purposes through acquisitions of PRC
domestic companies and controlled by PRC persons or entities to obtain the approval of the CSRC prior to the listing and trading of such
special purpose vehicle’s securities on an overseas stock exchange. The interpretation and application of the regulations remain unclear,
and our offshore offerings may ultimately require approval of the CSRC. If the CSRC approval is required, it is uncertain whether we can
or how long it will take us to obtain the approval and, even if we obtain such CSRC approval, the approval could be rescinded. Any
failure to obtain or delay in obtaining the CSRC approval for any of our offshore offerings, or a rescission of such approval if obtained
by us, may subject us to sanctions imposed by the CSRC or other PRC regulatory authorities, which may include fines and penalties on
our operations in China, restrictions or limitations on our ability to pay dividends outside of China, and other forms of sanctions that may
materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
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On February 17, 2023, the CSRC promulgated the Trial Administrative Measures of the Overseas Securities Offering and Listing by
Domestic Companies along with five relevant guidelines, which came into effect on March 31, 2023. The trial administrative measures
comprehensively improve and reform the existing regulatory regime for overseas offering and listing of PRC domestic companies’
securities and regulate both direct and indirect overseas offering and listing of PRC domestic companies’ securities by adopting a filing-
based regulatory regime. Pursuant to these trial administrative measures, an overseas offering and listing by a domestic company,
whether directly or indirectly, must be filed with the CSRC. Specifically, the examination and determination of an indirect overseas
offering and listing shall be conducted on a substance-over-form basis, and an offering and listing will be considered as an indirect
overseas offering and listing by a domestic company if the issuer meets the following both conditions: (i) the operating income, gross
profit, total assets or net assets of such domestic company in the most recent fiscal year was more than 50% of the relevant line items in
the issuer’s audited consolidated financial statements for that year; and (ii) the main part of operating activities is conducted in the PRC
or the main place of business is located in the PRC, or the senior management personnel responsible for business operations and
management are mostly PRC citizens or are ordinarily resident in the PRC. Following the completion of the divestiture of the Greater
China assets and business operations in April 2024, we conduct a majority of our business outside of China and only conduct a small
portion of our research and development activities in China as of the date of this annual report. However, the majority of our results of
operations for the year ended December 31, 2023 were related to our historical business operations in China. Given the circumstances,
uncertainties remain as to whether the trial administrative measures will apply to us to the extent we propose to conduct any offering or
listing outside China in 2024. As advised by our PRC legal counsel, JunHe LLP, there is a possibility that we will not be subject to the
CSRC filing requirements in connection with our proposed offering and listing outside China. However, the CSRC and other authorities
may take a view that is contrary to the opinion of our PRC legal counsel, and there is no assurance that we may not be required to file the
relevant documents with the CSRC in connection with our proposed offerings and listings outside mainland China in the future.
Following the issuance of the trial administrative measures, the CSRC subsequently issued several rules and regulations on overseas
offering and listing, providing further guidance on the filing requirements in connection with overseas securities issuance and listing by
domestic companies. We cannot assure you that any new rules or regulations promulgated in the future will not impose additional
requirements on us. If it is determined in the future that approval or filing from any regulatory authorities or other procedures are
required for our offshore offerings, it is uncertain whether we can or how long it will take us to obtain such approval or complete such
filing procedures and any such approval or filing could be rescinded or rejected. Any failure to obtain or delay in obtaining such approval
or completing such filing procedures for our offshore offerings, or a rescission of any such approval or filing if obtained by us, may
subject us to sanctions by the regulatory authorities. These regulatory authorities may impose fines and penalties on our operations in
China, limit our ability to pay dividends outside of China, limit our operating privileges in China, delay or restrict the repatriation of the
proceeds from our offshore offerings into China or take other actions that could materially and adversely affect our business, financial
condition, results of operations, and prospects, as well as the trading price of our listed securities. These regulatory authorities also may
take actions requiring us, or making it advisable for us, to halt our offshore offerings before settlement and delivery of the shares offered.
Consequently, if investors engage in market trading or other activities in anticipation of and prior to settlement and delivery, they do so at
the risk that settlement and delivery may not occur. In addition, if any regulatory authorities later promulgate new rules or explanations
requiring that we obtain their approvals or accomplish the required filing or other regulatory procedures for our prior offshore offerings,
we may be unable to obtain a waiver of such approval requirements, if and when procedures are established to obtain such a waiver. Any
uncertainties or negative publicity regarding such approval requirement could materially and adversely affect our business, prospects,
financial condition, reputation, and the trading price of our listed securities.
15
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We have granted, and may continue to grant, options and other types of awards under our share incentive plans, which may result in
increased share-based compensation expenses.
We have adopted the Second Amended and Restated 2017 Employee Stock Option Plan, or the 2017 Plan, the Second Amended and
Restated 2018 Employee Stock Option Plan, or the 2018 Plan, the 2019 Share Incentive Plan, or the 2019 Plan, the 2020 Share Incentive
Plan, or the 2020 Plan, the 2021 Share Incentive Plan, or the 2021 Plan, and the 2022 Share Incentive Plan, or the 2022 Plan, or for the
purpose of granting share-based compensation awards to employees, directors and consultants to incentivize their performance and align
their interests with ours. We recognize expenses in our consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP. As of April 15,
2024, the awards that had been granted to our directors, officers, employees and consultants and remained outstanding included (i)
options to purchase an aggregate of 1,108,636 ordinary shares, 598,388 ordinary shares, 0 ordinary shares, 2,054,670 ordinary shares,
2,175,326 ordinary shares, and 2,695,271 ordinary shares under the 2017 Plan, the 2018 Plan, the 2019 Plan, the 2020 Plan, the 2021
Plan and the 2022 Plan, respectively, excluding options that were forfeited, cancelled, or exercised after the grant date; and (ii) restricted
share units to receive an aggregate of 23,580 ordinary shares under the 2020 Plan, an aggregate of 390,655 ordinary shares under the
2021 Plan and an aggregate of 446,262 ordinary shares under the 2022 Plan, excluding restricted share units that were forfeited,
cancelled, or vested after the grant date. See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—B. Compensation—Share
Incentive Plans.”
We believe the granting of share-based compensation is of significant importance to our ability to attract and retain key personnel
and employees, and we will continue to grant share-based compensation to employees in the future. As a result, our expenses associated
with share-based compensation may increase, which may have an adverse effect on our results of operations. We may re-evaluate the
vesting schedules, lock-up period, exercise price or other key terms applicable to the grants under our currently effective share incentive
plans from time to time. If we choose to do so, we may experience substantial change in our share-based compensation charges.
Risks Related to Clinical Development of Our Drug Candidates
Clinical development involves a lengthy and expensive process with an uncertain outcome, and results of earlier studies and trials
may not be predictive of future trial results.
Clinical testing is expensive and can take many years to complete, and its outcome is inherently uncertain. While our exclusive focus
is to develop drug candidates with the potential to become novel or highly differentiated drugs globally, we cannot guarantee that we are
able to achieve this for any of our drug candidates. Failure can occur at any time during the clinical development process. The results of
pre-clinical studies and early clinical trials of our drug candidates may not be predictive of the results of later-stage clinical trials. Drug
candidates during later stages of clinical trials may fail to show the desired results in safety and efficacy despite having progressed
through pre-clinical studies and initial clinical trials and despite the level of scientific rigor in the study, design and adequacy of
execution. For example, in July 2022, due to an unexpectedly high incidence of fatal bleeding, MacroGenics terminated a phase 2 study
of enoblituzumab as a combination therapy with PD-1 antibody or PD-1/LAG3 bispecific antibody in patients with head and neck
cancers. As a result of such incident, we exercised our right to terminate the collaboration agreement with MacroGenics by serving a
termination notice on August 29, 2022, and the termination came into effect in February 2023. In addition, there can be significant
variability in safety and/or efficacy results among different trials of the same drug candidate due to numerous factors, including, but not
limited to, differences in individual patient conditions, including genetic differences, and other compounding factors, such as other
medications or pre-existing medical conditions.
In the case of any trials we conduct, results may differ from earlier trials due to the larger number of clinical trial sites and additional
countries and languages involved in such trials. A number of companies in the biopharmaceutical industry have suffered significant
setbacks in advanced clinical trials due to a lack of efficacy or adverse safety profiles, notwithstanding promising results in earlier trials.
We cannot guarantee that our future clinical trial results will be favorable based on currently available clinical and pre-clinical data.
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We depend substantially on the success of our drug candidates, all of which are in pre-clinical or clinical development, and our
ability to identify additional drug candidates. If we are unable to successfully identify new drug candidates, complete clinical
development, obtain regulatory approval and commercialize our drug candidates, or experience significant delays in doing so, our
business will be materially harmed.
Our business will depend on the successful development, regulatory approval and commercialization of our drug candidates for the
treatment of patients with our targeted indications, all of which are still in pre-clinical or clinical development, and other new drug
candidates that we may identify and develop. As of the date of this annual report, we have obtained IND approvals from the FDA for
three of our drug candidates, lemzoparlimab, uliledlimab, and givastomig. However, we cannot guarantee that we are able to obtain
regulatory approvals for our other existing drug candidates in a timely manner, or at all. In addition, none of our drug candidates has been
approved for marketing in any jurisdiction. Each of our drug candidates will require additional pre-clinical and/or clinical development,
regulatory approvals in multiple jurisdictions, development of manufacturing supply and capacity, substantial investment and significant
marketing efforts before we generate any revenue from product sales.
The success of our drug candidates will depend on several factors, including, but not limited to, the successful completion of pre-
clinical and/or clinical trials or studies, receipt of regulatory approvals from applicable regulatory authorities for planned clinical trials,
future clinical trials or drug registrations, successful manufacturing and commercialization of our existing drug candidates, hiring
sufficient technical experts to oversee all development and regulatory activities and license renewal and meeting of the safety
requirements.
If we do not achieve one or more of these in a timely manner or at all, we could experience significant delays in our ability to obtain
approval for our drug candidates, which would materially harm our business and we may not be able to generate sufficient revenues and
cash flows to continue our operations. As a result, our financial condition, results of operations and prospects will be materially and
adversely harmed.
We may not be able to identify, discover or in-license new drug candidates, and may allocate our limited resources to pursue a
particular drug candidate or indication and fail to capitalize on drug candidates or indications that may later prove to be more
profitable, or for which there is a greater likelihood of success.
Although a substantial amount of our effort will focus on the continued clinical testing, potential approval, and commercialization of
our existing drug candidates, the success of our business depends in part upon our ability to identify, license, discover, develop, or
commercialize additional drug candidates. Research programs to identify new drug candidates require substantial technical, financial,
and human resources. We may focus our efforts and resources on potential programs or drug candidates that ultimately prove to be
unsuccessful. Our research programs or licensing efforts may fail to identify, discover or in-license new drug candidates for clinical
development and commercialization for a number of reasons, including, without limitation, the following:
● our research or business development methodology or search criteria and process may be unsuccessful in identifying potential
drug candidates;
● our potential drug candidates may be shown to have harmful side effects or may have other characteristics that may make the
products unmarketable or unlikely to receive marketing approval; and
● it may take greater human and financial resources to identify additional therapeutic opportunities for our drug candidates or to
develop suitable potential drug candidates through internal research programs than we possess, thereby limiting our ability to
diversify and expand our drug portfolio.
Because we have limited financial and managerial resources, we focus on research programs and drug candidates for specific
indications. As a result, we may forgo or delay pursuit of opportunities with other drug candidates or for other indications that later may
prove to have greater commercial potential or a greater likelihood of success. Our resource allocation decisions may cause us to fail to
capitalize on viable commercial products or profitable market opportunities.
Accordingly, there can be no assurance that we will ever be able to identify additional therapeutic opportunities for our drug
candidates or to develop suitable potential drug candidates through internal research programs, which could materially adversely affect
our future growth and prospects.
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If we encounter delays or difficulties enrolling patients in our clinical trials, our clinical development progress could be delayed or
otherwise adversely affected.
We may not be able to initiate or continue clinical trials for our drug candidates if we are unable to locate and enroll a sufficient
number of eligible patients to participate in these trials as required by the FDA, or similar regulatory authorities, or if there are delays in
the enrollment of eligible patients as a result of the competitive clinical enrollment environment. The inability to enroll a sufficient
number of patients who meet the applicable criteria for our clinical trials would result in significant delays. As of the date of this annual
report, we have initiated clinical trials for uliledlimab and givastomig in the United States.
In addition, some of our competitors have ongoing clinical trials for drug candidates that treat the same indications as our drug
candidates, and patients who would otherwise be eligible for our clinical trials may instead enroll in the clinical trials of our competitors’
drug candidates, which may further delay our clinical trial enrollments.
Patient enrollment for our clinical trials may be affected by other factors, including, but not limited to, the following:
● severity of the disease under investigation;
● total size and nature of the patient population;
● design and eligibility criteria for the clinical trial in question;
● perceived risks and benefits of the drug candidate under study;
● our resources to facilitate timely enrollment in clinical trials;
● patient referral practices of physicians;
● availability of competing therapies also undergoing clinical trials;
● our investigators’ or clinical trial sites’ efforts to screen and recruit eligible patients; and
● proximity and availability of clinical trial sites for prospective patients.
Even if we are able to enroll a sufficient number of patients in our clinical trials, delays in patient enrollment may result in increased
costs or may affect the timing or outcome of the planned clinical trials, which could prevent completion of these trials and adversely
affect our ability to advance the development of our drug candidates.
If clinical trials of our drug candidates fail to demonstrate safety and efficacy to the satisfaction of regulatory authorities or do not
otherwise produce positive results, we may incur additional costs or experience delays in completing, or ultimately be unable to
complete, the development and commercialization of our drug candidates.
Before obtaining regulatory approval for the sale of our drug candidates, we must conduct extensive clinical trials to demonstrate the
safety and efficacy of our drug candidates in humans. We may experience numerous unexpected events during, or as a result of, clinical
trials that could delay or prevent our ability to receive regulatory approval or commercialize our drug candidates, including, without
limitation:
● regulators, institutional review boards, or ethics committees may not authorize us or our investigators to commence a clinical
trial or conduct a clinical trial at a prospective trial site;
● our inability to reach agreements on acceptable terms with prospective CROs and trial sites, the terms of which can be subject
to extensive negotiation and may vary significantly among different CROs and trial sites;
● manufacturing issues, including problems with manufacturing, supply quality, compliance with good manufacturing practice or
obtaining sufficient quantities of a drug candidate from third parties for use in a clinical trial;
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● our partners identify safety concerns in the clinical assets that we licensed, which lead to the termination of the collaboration
and development of the underlying clinical assets with our partners;
● clinical trials of our drug candidates may produce negative or inconclusive results, and we may decide to conduct additional
clinical trials or abandon drug development programs, or regulators may require us to do so;
● the number of patients required for clinical trials of our drug candidates may be larger than we anticipate, enrollment may be
insufficient or slower than we anticipate or patients may drop out at a higher rate than we anticipate;
● our third-party contractors, including clinical investigators, may fail to comply with regulatory requirements or meet their
contractual obligations to us in a timely manner, or at all;
● we might have to suspend or terminate clinical trials of our drug candidates for various reasons, including a finding of a lack of
clinical response or other unexpected characteristics or a finding that participants are being exposed to unacceptable health
risks;
● regulators, institutional review boards or ethics committees may require that we or our investigators suspend or terminate
clinical research or not rely on the results of clinical research for various reasons, including non-compliance with regulatory
requirements;
● the cost of clinical trials of our drug candidates may be greater than we anticipate; and
● the supply or quality of our drug candidates, companion diagnostics or other materials necessary to conduct clinical trials of our
drug candidates may be insufficient or inadequate.
If we fail to timely and effectively address the above challenges, we may (i) be delayed in obtaining regulatory approval for our drug
candidates; (ii) obtain approval for indications that are not as broad as intended; (iii) not obtain regulatory approval at all; (iv) have the
drug removed from the market after obtaining regulatory approval; (v) be subject to additional post-marketing testing requirements; (vi)
be subject to restrictions on how the drug is distributed or used; or (vii) be unable to obtain reimbursement for use of the drug.
Significant clinical trial delays may also increase our development costs and could shorten any periods during which we have the
exclusive right to commercialize our drug candidates or allow our competitors to bring drugs to market before we do. This could impair
our ability to commercialize our drug candidates and may harm our business and results of operations.
Risks Related to Obtaining Regulatory Approval for Our Drug Candidates
All material aspects of the research, development and commercialization of pharmaceutical products are heavily regulated.
All jurisdictions in which we intend to conduct our pharmaceutical-industry activities regulate these activities in great depth and
detail. We intend to focus our activities in the major markets outside of Greater China, including the United States. These jurisdictions
strictly regulate the pharmaceutical industry, and in doing so they employ broadly similar regulatory strategies, including regulation of
product development and approval, manufacturing, and marketing, sales and distribution of products. However, there are differences in
the regulatory regimes that make for a more complex and costly regulatory compliance burden for a company like us that plans to
operate in these regions.
The process of obtaining regulatory approvals and compliance with appropriate laws and regulations requires the expenditure of
substantial time and financial resources. Failure to comply with the applicable requirements at any time during the product development
process and approval process, or after approval, may subject an applicant to administrative or judicial sanctions. These sanctions could
include refusal to approve pending applications, withdrawal of an approval, license revocation, clinical hold, voluntary or mandatory
product recalls, product seizures; total or partial suspension of production or distribution, injunctions, fines, refusals of government
contracts, providing restitution, undergoing disgorgement, or other civil or criminal penalties. Failure to comply with these regulations
could have a material adverse effect on our business.
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The regulatory approval processes of the FDA and other comparable regulatory authorities are time-consuming and may evolve over
time, and if we are ultimately unable to obtain regulatory approval for our drug candidates, our business will be substantially
harmed.
The time required to obtain the approval of the FDA and other comparable regulatory authorities is inherently uncertain and depends
on numerous factors, including the substantial discretion of the regulatory authorities. Generally, such approvals take many years to
obtain following the commencement of pre-clinical studies and clinical trials, although they are typically provided within 12 to 18
months after clinical trials are completed. In addition, approval policies, regulations or the type and amount of clinical data necessary to
gain approval may change during the course of a drug candidate’s clinical development and may vary among jurisdictions. As of the date
of this annual report, we have obtained IND approvals from the FDA for three of our drug candidates, lemzoparlimab, uliledlimab and
givastomig. However, we cannot guarantee that we are able to obtain regulatory approvals for our other existing drug candidates or any
drug candidates we may discover, in-license or acquire and seek to develop in the future.
Our drug candidates could fail to receive the regulatory approval of the FDA or a comparable regulatory authority for many reasons,
including, without limitation:
● disagreement with the design or implementation of our clinical trials;
● failure to demonstrate that a drug candidate is safe and effective and potent for its proposed indication;
● failure of our clinical trial results to meet the level of statistical significance required for approval;
● failure of our clinical trial process to pass good clinical practice inspections;
● failure to demonstrate that a drug candidate’s clinical and other benefits outweigh its safety risks;
● disagreement with our interpretation of data from pre-clinical studies or clinical trials;
● insufficient data collected from the clinical trials of our drug candidates to support the submission and filing of a new drug
application, or other submissions or to obtain regulatory approval;
● failure of our drug candidates to pass current good manufacturing practice, inspections during the regulatory review process or
across the production cycle of our drug;
● failure of our clinical sites to pass audits carried out by the FDA or comparable regulatory authorities, resulting in a potential
invalidation of our research data;
● findings by the FDA or comparable regulatory authorities of deficiencies related to our manufacturing processes or the facilities
of third-party manufacturers with whom we contract for clinical and commercial supplies;
● changes in approval policies or regulations that render our pre-clinical and clinical data insufficient for approval; and
● failure of our clinical trial process to keep up with any scientific or technological advancements required by approval policies or
regulations.
The FDA or a comparable regulatory authority may require more information, including additional pre-clinical or clinical data, to
support approval, which may delay or prevent approval and our commercialization plans. Even if we were to obtain approval, regulatory
authorities may approve any of our drug candidates for fewer or more limited indications than we request, grant approval contingent on
the performance of costly post-marketing clinical trials, or approve a drug candidate with an indication that is not desirable for the
successful commercialization of that drug candidate. Any of the foregoing scenarios could materially harm the commercial prospects of
our drug candidates.
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The failure to obtain a patent term extension and data exclusivity for any product candidates we may develop could increase the risk
of generic competition with our products.
In the United States, the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act provides the opportunity for patent-term restoration, meaning a
patent term extension of up to five years to reflect patent term lost during clinical trials and the FDA regulatory review process. A patent
term extension cannot extend the remaining term of a patent beyond a total of 14 years from the date of drug approval, only one patent
may be extended and only those claims covering the approved drug, a method for using it, or a method for manufacturing it may be
extended. Depending upon the timing, duration and specifics of any FDA marketing approval process for any drug candidates we may
develop, one or more of our U.S. patents, if issued, may be eligible for limited patent term extension. However, we may not be granted an
extension because of, for example, failing to exercise due diligence during the testing phase or regulatory review process, failing to apply
within applicable deadlines, failing to apply prior to expiration of relevant patents, or otherwise failing to satisfy applicable requirements.
Furthermore, the applicable time period or the scope of patent protection afforded could be less than we request.
In addition, the Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act of 2009 created an abbreviated pathway for the approval of
biosimilar and interchangeable biologic products. Under this act, an application for a highly similar or “biosimilar” product may not be
submitted to the FDA until four years following the date that the original branded product was first approved by the FDA. In addition, an
application for a biosimilar product cannot be approved by the FDA until 12 years after the original branded product was approved under
a biologics license application, or a BLA. The law is complex and is still being interpreted and implemented by the FDA. As a result, its
ultimate impact, implementation, and meaning are subject to uncertainty.
In other jurisdictions where we seek patents protection for our product candidates, patent term compensation and patent linkage
system may be available to us. However, there is no assurance that we may be granted a patent term extension as we request or our
pending or future patent applications may qualify for patent linkage. If we are unable to obtain patent term extension or the term of any
such extension is less than we request, or our pending or future patent applications do not qualify for patent linkage, our competitors may
obtain approval of competing products following our patent expiration, and our business, financial condition, results of operations, and
prospects could be materially harmed.
Our drug candidates may cause undesirable adverse events or have other properties that could delay or prevent their regulatory
approval, limit the commercial profile of an approved label, or result in significant negative consequences following regulatory
approval.
Undesirable adverse events caused by our drug candidates could cause us or regulatory authorities to interrupt, delay or halt clinical
trials and may result in a more restrictive label, a delay or denial of regulatory approval by the FDA or other comparable regulatory
authorities, or a significant change in our clinical protocol or even our development plan. In particular, as is the case with drugs treating
cancers and autoimmune diseases, it is likely that there may be side effects, such as nausea, fatigue and infusion-related reactions,
associated with the use of certain of our drug candidates. Results of our trials could reveal a high and unacceptable severity or prevalence
of certain adverse events. In such an event, our trials could be suspended or terminated and the FDA or other comparable regulatory
authorities could order us to cease further development of, or deny approval of, our drug candidates for any or all targeted indications.
Adverse events related to our drug candidates may affect patient recruitment or the ability of enrolled subjects to complete the trial, and
could result in potential liability claims. Any of these occurrences may significantly harm our reputation, business, financial condition
and prospects.
Additionally, if we or others identify undesirable side effects caused by those of our existing drug candidates that have received
regulatory approval, or our other drug candidates after having received regulatory approval, this may lead to potentially significant
negative consequences which include, but are not limited to, the following:
● we may suspend marketing of the drug candidate;
● regulatory authorities may withdraw their approvals of or revoke the licenses for the drug candidate;
● regulatory authorities may require additional warnings on the label;
● the FDA may require the establishment of a risk evaluation and mitigation strategy or a comparable regulatory authority may
require the establishment of a similar strategy that may, for instance, restrict distribution of our drugs and impose burdensome
implementation requirements on us;
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● we may be required to conduct specific post-marketing studies;
● we could be subjected to litigation proceedings and held liable for harm caused to subjects or patients; and
● our reputation may suffer.
Any of these events could prevent us from achieving or maintaining market acceptance of any particular drug candidate that is
approved and could significantly harm our business, results of operations and prospects.
Further, combination therapy, such as using our wholly-owned drug candidates as well as third-party agents, may involve unique
adverse events that could be exacerbated compared with adverse events from monotherapies. Results of our trials could reveal a high and
unacceptable severity or prevalence of adverse events. These types of adverse events could be caused by our drug candidates and could
cause us or regulatory authorities to interrupt, delay or halt clinical trials and may result in a more restrictive indication or the delay or
denial of regulatory approval by the FDA or other comparable regulatory authority.
Even if we receive regulatory approval for our drug candidates, we will be subject to ongoing regulatory obligations and continued
regulatory review, which may result in significant additional expenses and we may be subject to penalties if we fail to comply with
regulatory requirements or experience unanticipated problems with our drug candidates.
If the FDA or a comparable regulatory authority approves any of our drug candidates, the manufacturing processes, labeling,
packaging, distribution, adverse event reporting, storage, advertising, promotion and recordkeeping for the drug will be subject to
extensive and ongoing regulatory requirements on pharmacovigilance. These requirements include submissions of safety and other post-
marketing information and reports, registration, random quality control testing, adherence to any chemistry, manufacturing and controls,
variations, continued compliance with current good manufacturing practice, and good clinical practices and potential post-approval
studies for the purposes of license renewal.
Any regulatory approvals that we receive for our drug candidates may also be subject to limitations on the approved indicated uses
for which the drug may be marketed or to the conditions of approval, or contain requirements for potentially costly post-marketing
studies, including Phase 4 studies for the surveillance and monitoring of the safety and efficacy of the drug.
In addition, once a drug is approved by the FDA or a comparable regulatory authority for marketing, it is possible that there could be
a subsequent discovery of previously unknown problems with the drug, including problems with third-party manufacturers or
manufacturing processes, or failure to comply with regulatory requirements. If any of the foregoing occurs with respect to our drug
products, it may result in, among other things:
● restrictions on the marketing or manufacturing of the drug, withdrawal of the drug from the market, or voluntary or mandatory
drug recalls;
● fines, warning letters or holds on our clinical trials;
● refusal by the FDA or comparable regulatory authorities to approve pending applications or supplements to approved
applications filed by us, or suspension or revocation of drug license approvals;
● refusal by the FDA or comparable regulatory authorities to accept any of our other IND approvals, new drug applications or
biologics license applications;
● drug seizure or detention, or refusal to permit the import or export of drugs; and
● injunctions or the imposition of civil, administrative or criminal penalties.
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Any government investigation of alleged violations of law could require us to expend significant time and resources and could
generate negative publicity. Moreover, regulatory policies may change or additional government regulations may be enacted that could
prevent, limit or delay regulatory approval of our drug candidates. If we are not able to maintain regulatory compliance, we may lose the
regulatory approvals that we have already obtained and may not achieve or sustain profitability, which in turn could significantly harm
our business, financial condition and prospects.
Risks Related to Commercialization of Our Drug Candidates
Our drug candidates may fail to achieve the degree of market acceptance by physicians, patients, third-party payors and others in the
medical community necessary for commercial success.
Even if our drug candidates receive regulatory approval, they may nonetheless fail to gain sufficient market acceptance by
physicians and patients and others in the medical community. Physicians and patients may prefer other drugs or drug candidates to ours.
If our drug candidates do not achieve an adequate level of acceptance, we may not generate significant revenue from sales of our drugs or
drug candidates and may not become profitable.
The degree of market acceptance of our drug candidates, if and only when they are approved for commercial sale, will depend on a
number of factors, including, but not limited to:
● the clinical indications for which our drug candidates are approved;
● physicians, hospitals and patients considering our drug candidates as a safe and effective treatment;
● whether our drug candidates have achieved the perceived advantages of our drug candidates over alternative treatments;
● the prevalence and severity of any side effects;
● product labeling or package insert requirements of the FDA or other comparable regulatory authorities;
● limitations or warnings contained in the labeling approved by the FDA or other comparable regulatory authorities;
● timing of market introduction of our drug candidates as well as competitive drugs;
● cost of treatment in relation to alternative treatments;
● availability of adequate coverage and reimbursement from third-party payors and government authorities in the United States or
any other jurisdictions;
● willingness of patients to pay any out-of-pocket expenses in the absence of coverage and reimbursement by third-party payors
and government authorities;
● relative convenience and ease of administration, including as compared with alternative treatments and competitive therapies;
and
● the effectiveness of our sales and marketing efforts.
If our drug candidates are approved but fail to achieve market acceptance among physicians, patients, hospitals or others in the
medical community, we will not be able to generate significant revenue or become profitable. Even if our drugs achieve market
acceptance, we may not be able to maintain such market acceptance over time if new products or technologies are introduced which are
more favorably received than our drugs, are more cost effective or render our drugs obsolete.
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We face intense competition and rapid technological change and the possibility that our competitors may develop therapies that are
similar, more advanced, or more effective than ours, which may adversely affect our financial condition and our ability to
successfully commercialize our drug candidates.
The biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries are intensely competitive and subject to rapid and significant technological change.
While our exclusive focus is to develop drug candidates with potential to become novel or highly differentiated drugs, we continue to
face competition with respect to our current drug candidates, and will face competition with respect to any drug candidates that we may
seek to develop or commercialize in the future. Our competitors include major pharmaceutical companies, specialty pharmaceutical
companies and biotechnology companies worldwide. We are developing our drug candidates for the treatment of cancer in competition
with a number of large biopharmaceutical companies that currently market and sell drugs or are pursuing the development of drugs also
for the treatment of cancer. Some of these competitive drugs and therapies are based on scientific approaches that are the same as or
similar to our approach, and others are based on entirely different approaches. For details, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—B.
Business Overview—Our Drug Pipeline.” Potential competitors further include academic institutions, government agencies and other
public and private research organizations that conduct research, seek patent protection and establish collaborative arrangements for
research, development, manufacturing and commercialization.
Many of our competitors have substantially greater financial, technical, and other resources, such as larger research and development
staff and experienced marketing and manufacturing organizations. Additional mergers and acquisitions in the biotechnology and
pharmaceutical industries may result in even more resources being concentrated in our competitors. As a result, these companies may
obtain regulatory approval from the FDA or other comparable regulatory authorities more rapidly than we are able to and may be more
effective in selling and marketing their products as well.
Smaller or early-stage companies may also prove to be significant competitors, particularly through collaborative arrangements with
large, established companies. Competition may increase further as a result of advances in the commercial applicability of technologies
and greater availability of capital for investment in these industries. Our competitors may succeed in developing, acquiring, or licensing
on an exclusive basis, products that are more effective or less costly than any drug candidate that we may develop, or achieve earlier
patent protection, regulatory approval, product commercialization, and market penetration than we do. Additionally, technologies
developed by our competitors may render our potential drug candidates uneconomical or obsolete, and we may not be successful in
marketing our drug candidates against competitors.
The manufacture of biopharmaceutical products is a complex process which requires significant expertise and capital investment,
and if we encounter problems in sourcing manufacturing capabilities or manufacturing our future products, our business could
suffer.
We have limited experience in managing the manufacturing process. The manufacture of biopharmaceutical products is a complex
process, in part due to strict regulatory requirements. We previously were the largest shareholder of I-Mab Hangzhou, which has been
constructing a comprehensive biologics manufacturing facility in Hangzhou, China. In connection with the divestiture of the Greater
China assets and business operations, we have transferred the equity interests we held in I-Mab Hangzhou to certain participating
shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou in exchange for extinguishment of the existing repurchase obligations owed by us to those shareholders
in the amount of approximately US$183 million. As a result, we have ceased to be the largest shareholder of I-Mab Hangzhou, and I-
Mab Hangzhou has remained an unconsolidated investee of our company. We may seek to contract with I-Mab Hangzhou or other
manufacturing facilities or build our own manufacturing capacities to manufacture our product candidates in the future, which would add
to our cost and divert management attention.
In addition, problems may arise during the manufacturing process for a variety of reasons, including equipment malfunction, failure
to follow specific protocols and procedures, problems with raw materials, delays related to the construction of new facilities or expansion
of any future manufacturing facilities, including changes in manufacturing production sites and limits to manufacturing capacity due to
regulatory requirements, changes in the types of products produced, increases in the prices of raw materials, physical limitations that
could inhibit continuous supply, man-made or natural disasters and environmental factors. If problems arise during the production of a
batch of future products, that batch of future products may have to be discarded and we may experience product shortages or incur added
expenses. This could, among other things, lead to increased costs, lost revenue, damage to customer relationships, time and expense
spent investigating the cause and, depending on the cause, similar losses with respect to other batches or products. If problems are not
discovered before such product is released to the market, recall and product liability costs may also be incurred.
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We have no experience in launching and marketing drug candidates. We may not be able to effectively build and manage our sales
network, or benefit from third-party collaborators’ sales network.
We currently have no sales, marketing or commercial product distribution capabilities and have no experience in marketing drugs.
We and our third-party collaborators will have to compete with other biopharmaceutical companies to recruit, hire, train and retain
marketing and sales personnel.
If we are unable or decide not to establish internal sales, marketing and commercial distribution capabilities for any or all of the
drugs we develop, we will likely pursue collaborative arrangements regarding the sales and marketing of our drugs. However, there can
be no assurance that we will be able to establish or maintain such collaborative arrangements, or, if we are able to do so, that they will
have effective sales forces. Any revenue we receive will depend on the efforts of such third parties, which may not be successful. We
may have little or no control over the marketing and sales efforts of such third parties, and our revenue from product sales may be lower
than if we had commercialized our drug candidates ourselves. We will also face competition in our search for third parties to assist us
with the sales and marketing efforts of our drug candidates.
There can be no assurance that we will be able to develop in-house sales and commercial distribution capabilities or establish or
maintain relationships with third-party collaborators to successfully commercialize any product, and as a result, we may not be able to
generate product sales revenue.
Even if we are able to commercialize any approved drug candidates, reimbursement may be limited or unavailable in certain market
segments for our drug candidates, and we may be subject to unfavorable pricing regulations, which could harm our business.
The regulations that govern regulatory approvals, pricing and reimbursement for new therapeutic products vary widely from country
to country. Some countries require approval of the sale price of a drug before it can be marketed. In many countries, the pricing review
period begins after marketing or licensing approval is granted. In some non-U.S. markets, prescription pharmaceutical pricing remains
subject to continuing governmental control even after initial approval is granted. As a result, we might obtain regulatory approval for a
drug in a particular country, but then be subject to price regulations that delay our commercial launch of the drug and negatively impact
the revenues we are able to generate from the sale of the drug in that country. Adverse pricing limitations may hinder our ability to
recoup our investment in one or more drug candidates, even if our drug candidates obtain regulatory approval.
Our ability to commercialize any drugs successfully will also depend in part on the extent to which reimbursement for these drugs
and related treatments will be available from government health administration authorities, private health insurers and other
organizations. Government authorities and third-party payors, such as private health insurers and health maintenance organizations,
decide which medications they will pay for and establish reimbursement levels. A primary trend in the global healthcare industry is cost
containment. Government authorities and these third-party payors have attempted to control costs by limiting coverage and the amount of
reimbursement for particular medications. Increasingly, third-party payors are requiring that companies provide them with predetermined
discounts from list prices and are challenging the prices charged for medical products. We cannot be sure that reimbursement will be
available for any drug that we commercialize and, if reimbursement is available, what the level of reimbursement will be.
Reimbursement may impact the demand for, or the price of, any drug for which we obtain regulatory approval. Obtaining reimbursement
for our drugs may be particularly difficult because of the higher prices often associated with drugs administered under the supervision of
a physician. If reimbursement is not available or is available only to limited levels, we may not be able to successfully commercialize
any drug candidate that we successfully develop.
There may be significant delays in obtaining reimbursement for approved drug candidates, and coverage may be more limited than
the purposes for which the drug candidates are approved by the FDA or other comparable regulatory authorities. Moreover, eligibility for
reimbursement does not imply that any drug will be paid for in all cases or at a rate that covers our costs, including research,
development, manufacture, sale and distribution. Interim payments for new drugs, if applicable, may also not be sufficient to cover our
costs and may not be made permanent. Payment rates may vary according to the use of the drug and the clinical setting in which it is
used, may be based on payments allowed for lower cost drugs that are already reimbursed, and may be incorporated into existing
payments for other services. Net prices for drugs may be reduced by mandatory discounts or rebates required by government healthcare
programs or private payors and by any future weakening of laws that presently restrict imports of drugs from countries where they may
be sold at lower prices than in the United States. Our inability to promptly obtain coverage and profitable payment rates from both
government-funded and private payors for any future approved drug candidates and any new drugs that we develop could have a material
adverse effect on our business, our operating results, and our overall financial condition.
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Current and future legislation may increase the difficulty and cost for us to obtain marketing approval of and commercialize our
drug candidates and affect the prices we may obtain.
In the United States and certain other jurisdictions, there have been a number of legislative and regulatory changes and proposed
changes regarding the healthcare system that could prevent or delay marketing approval of our drug candidates, restrict post-approval
activities and affect our ability to sell profitably any drug candidates for which we obtain marketing approval.
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, became
effective. This act is a sweeping law intended to broaden access to health insurance, reduce or constrain the growth of healthcare
spending, enhance remedies against fraud and abuse, add new transparency requirements for the healthcare and health insurance
industries, impose new taxes and fees on the health industry and impose additional health policy reforms. The following sets forth the
major provisions of this act that may affect our drug candidates:
● an annual, nondeductible fee on any entity that manufactures or imports specified branded prescription drugs and biologic
products;
● an increase in the statutory minimum rebates a manufacturer must pay under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program;
● expansion of healthcare fraud and abuse laws, including the False Claims Act and the Anti-Kickback Statute, new government
investigative powers, and enhanced penalties for noncompliance;
● a new Medicare Part D coverage gap discount program, in which manufacturers must agree to offer 50% point-of-sale discounts
off negotiated prices;
● extension of manufacturers’ Medicaid rebate liability;
● expansion of eligibility criteria for Medicaid programs;
● expansion of the entities eligible for discounts under the Public Health Service Act’s pharmaceutical pricing program;
● new requirements to report financial arrangements with physicians and teaching hospitals with Centers for Medicare and
Medicaid Services;
● a new requirement to annually report to the FDA drug samples that manufacturers and distributors provide to physicians; and
● a new Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute to oversee, identify priorities in, and conduct comparative clinical
effectiveness research, along with funding for such research.
Legislative and regulatory proposals have been made to expand post-approval requirements and restrict sales and promotional
activities for pharmaceutical products. We cannot be sure whether additional legislative changes will be enacted, or whether the FDA
regulations, guidance or interpretations will be changed, or what the impact of such changes on the marketing approvals, if any, of our
drug candidates may be. In addition, increased scrutiny by the U.S. Congress of the FDA’s approval process may significantly delay or
prevent marketing approval, as well as subject us to more stringent product labeling and post-marketing conditions and other
requirements.
As we engage in collaborations worldwide, including conducting clinical trials globally, we may be exposed to specific risks of
conducting our business and operations in international markets.
Markets outside of the U.S. form an important component of our growth strategy, as we conduct certain of our clinical trials outside
of the U.S. If we fail to obtain applicable licenses or fail to enter into strategic collaboration arrangements with third parties in these
markets, or if these collaboration arrangements turn out unsuccessful, our revenue-generating growth potential will be adversely affected.
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Moreover, international business relationships subject us to additional risks that may materially adversely affect our ability to attain
or sustain profitable operations, including:
● efforts to enter into collaboration or licensing arrangements with third parties in connection with our international sales,
marketing and distribution efforts may increase our expenses or divert our management’s attention from the acquisition or
development of drug candidates;
● changes in a specific country’s or region’s political and cultural climate or economic condition;
● differing regulatory requirements for drug approvals and marketing internationally;
● difficulty of effective enforcement of contractual provisions in local jurisdictions;
● potentially reduced protection for intellectual property rights;
● potential third-party patent rights;
● unexpected changes in tariffs, trade barriers and regulatory requirements;
● economic weakness, including inflation or political instability;
● compliance with tax, employment, immigration and labor laws for employees traveling abroad;
● the effects of applicable local tax structures and potentially adverse tax consequences;
● currency fluctuations, which could result in increased operating expenses and reduced revenue, and other obligations incidental
to doing business in another country;
● workforce uncertainty and labor unrest;
● the potential for so-called parallel importing, which is what happens when a local seller, faced with high or higher local prices,
opts to import goods from an international market with low or lower prices rather than buying them locally;
● failure of our employees and contracted third parties to comply with Office of Foreign Assets Control rules and regulations and
the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of the United States, and other applicable rules and regulations;
● production shortages resulting from any events affecting raw material supply or manufacturing capabilities abroad; and
● business interruptions resulting from geo-political actions, including war and terrorism, or natural disasters, including
earthquakes, volcanoes, typhoons, floods, hurricanes and fires.
These and other risks may materially adversely affect our ability to attain or sustain revenue from international markets.
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If safety, efficacy, or other issues arise with any medical product that is used in combination with our drug candidates, we may be
unable to market such drug candidate or may experience significant regulatory delays or supply shortages, and our business could be
materially harmed.
We plan to develop certain of our drug candidates for use as a combination therapy. If the FDA or another comparable regulatory
agency revokes its approval of another therapeutic we use in combination with our drug candidates, we will not be able to market our
drug candidates in combination with such revoked therapeutic. If safety or efficacy issues arise with these or other therapeutics that we
seek to combine with our drug candidates in the future, we may experience significant regulatory delays, and we may be required to
redesign or terminate the applicable clinical trials. In addition, if manufacturing or other issues result in a supply shortage of any
component of our combination drug candidates or if we cannot secure supply of any component of our drug candidates at commercially
reasonable or acceptable prices, we may not be able to complete clinical development of our drug candidates on our current timeline or
within our current budget, or at all.
Lack of third-party combination drugs may materially and adversely affect demand for our drugs.
Our drug candidates may be administered in combination with drugs of other pharmaceutical companies as one regimen. In addition,
we often use such third-party drugs in our development and clinical trials as controls for our studies. As a result, both the results of our
clinical trials and the sales of our drugs may be affected by the availability of these third-party drugs. If other pharmaceutical companies
discontinue these combination drugs, regimens that use these combination drugs may no longer be prescribed, and we may not be able to
introduce or find an alternative drug to be used in combination with our drugs at all or in a timely manner and on a cost-effective basis.
As a result, demand for our drugs may be lowered, which would in turn materially and adversely affect our business and results of
operations.
Risks Related to Our Reliance on Third Parties
As we rely on third parties to conduct our pre-clinical studies and clinical trials, if we lose our relationships with these third parties or
if they do not successfully carry out their contractual duties or meet expected deadlines, we may not be able to obtain regulatory
approval for or commercialize our drug candidates and our business could be substantially harmed.
We have relied on and plan to continue to rely on third-party CROs to monitor and manage data for some of our ongoing pre-clinical
and clinical programs. We rely on these parties for the execution of our pre-clinical and clinical trials, and control only certain aspects of
their activities. Nevertheless, we are responsible for ensuring that each of our studies is conducted in accordance with the applicable
protocol and legal, regulatory and scientific standards, and our reliance on the CROs does not relieve us of our regulatory
responsibilities.
We also rely on third parties to assist in conducting our pre-clinical studies in accordance with good laboratory practices. We and our
CROs are required to comply with good clinical practice, good laboratory practice and other regulatory regulations and guidelines
enforced by the FDA and comparable foreign regulatory authorities for all of our drug candidates in clinical development. Regulatory
authorities enforce these regulatory requirements of good clinical practice, good laboratory practice or other regulatory requirements
through periodic inspections of trial sponsors, investigators and trial sites. If we or any of our CROs fail to comply with applicable good
clinical practice, good laboratory practice or other regulatory requirements, the data generated in our clinical trials may be deemed
unreliable and the FDA or other comparable regulatory authorities may require us to perform additional clinical studies before approving
our marketing applications. There can be no assurance that upon inspection by a given regulatory authority, such regulatory authority will
determine that any of our clinical trials complies with requirements of good clinical practice. In addition, our clinical trials must be
conducted with drug candidates or products produced under current good manufacturing practice requirements. Failure to comply with
these regulations may require us to repeat pre-clinical and clinical trials, which would delay the regulatory approval process.
Our CROs have the right to terminate their agreements with us in the event of an unrectified material breach. If any of our
relationships with our third-party CROs is terminated, we may not be able to (i) enter into arrangements with alternative CROs or do so
on commercially reasonable terms or (ii) meet our desired clinical development timelines. In addition, there is a natural transition period
when a new CRO commences work, and the new CRO may not provide the same type or level of services as the original provider and
data from our clinical trials may be compromised as a result. There is also a need for relevant technology to be transferred to the new
CRO, which may take time and further delay our development timelines.
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Except for remedies available to us under our agreements with our CROs, we cannot control whether or not our CROs devote
sufficient time and resources to our ongoing clinical, nonclinical and pre-clinical programs. If our CROs do not successfully carry out
their contractual duties or obligations or meet expected deadlines or if the quality or accuracy of the clinical data they obtain is
compromised due to their failure to adhere to our clinical protocols, regulatory requirements or for other reasons, our clinical trials may
be extended, delayed or terminated and we may not be able to obtain regulatory approval for or successfully commercialize our drug
candidates. As a result, our results of operations and the commercial prospects for our drug candidates would be harmed and our costs
could increase. In turn, our ability to generate revenues could be delayed or compromised.
Because we rely on third parties, our internal capacity to perform these functions is limited. Outsourcing these functions involves
certain risks that third parties may not perform to our standards, may not produce results in a timely manner or may fail to perform at all.
In addition, the use of third-party service providers requires us to disclose our proprietary information to these third parties, which could
increase the risk that such information will be misappropriated. We currently have a small number of employees, which limits the
internal resources we could utilize to identify and monitor our third-party service providers. To the extent we are unable to identify and
successfully manage the performance of third-party service providers in the future, our business may be adversely affected. Though we
carefully manage our relationships with our CROs, there can be no assurance that we will not encounter similar challenges or delays in
the future or that these delays or challenges will not have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and prospects.
We plan to continue to rely on third parties to manufacture our drug candidate supplies, and we intend to rely on third parties for the
manufacturing process of our drug candidates, if approved. Our business could be harmed if those third parties fail to provide us
with sufficient quantities of product or fail to do so at acceptable quality levels or prices.
We have relied on and plan to continue to rely on third-party vendors to manufacture supplies and process our drug candidates. We
have not yet manufactured or processed our drug candidates on a commercial scale and may not be able to do so for any of our drug
candidates. We have limited experience in managing the manufacturing process, and our process may be more difficult or expensive than
the approaches currently in use.
Our reliance on third-party manufacturers exposes us to certain risks, including, but not limited to, the following:
● we may be unable to identify manufacturers on acceptable terms or at all because the number of potential manufacturers is
limited and the NMPA, the FDA or other comparable regulatory authorities must approve any manufacturers as part of their
regulatory oversight of our drug candidates. This approval would require new testing and compliance inspections of current
good manufacturing practice by the NMPA, the FDA or other comparable regulatory authorities. In addition, a new
manufacturer would have to be educated in, or develop substantially equivalent processes for, production of our drugs;
● our contract manufacturers may have little or no experience with manufacturing our drug candidates, and therefore may require
a significant amount of support from us in order to implement and maintain the infrastructure and processes required to
manufacture our drug candidates;
● our contract manufacturers may have limited capacity or limited manufacturing slots, which may affect the timeline for the
production of our drugs;
● our contract manufacturers might be unable to timely manufacture our drug candidates or produce the quantity and quality
required to meet our clinical and commercial needs, if any;
● contract manufacturers may not be able to execute our manufacturing procedures and other logistical support requirements
appropriately;
● our future contract manufacturers may not perform as agreed, may not devote sufficient resources to our drugs, or may not
remain in the contract manufacturing business for the time required to supply our clinical trials or to successfully produce, store
and distribute our drugs;
● our contract manufacturers are subject to ongoing periodic unannounced inspections by the NMPA and the FDA to ensure strict
compliance with current good manufacturing practice and other government regulations in the PRC and the United States,
respectively, and by other comparable regulatory authorities for corresponding regulatory requirements. We do not have control
over third-party manufacturers’ compliance with these regulations and requirements;
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● we may not own, or may have to share, the intellectual property rights to any improvements made by our third-party
manufacturers in the manufacturing process for our drugs;
● our contract manufacturers could breach or terminate their agreements with us;
● our contract manufacturers may be unable to sustain their business and become bankrupt as a result;
● raw materials and components used in the manufacturing process, particularly those for which we have no other source or
supplier, may not be available or may not be suitable or acceptable for use due to material or component defects;
● products and components from our third-party manufacturers may be subject to additional customs and import charges, which
may cause us to incur delays or additional costs as a result;
● our contract manufacturers and critical reagent suppliers may be subject to inclement weather, as well as natural or man-made
disasters; and
● our contract manufacturers may have unacceptable or inconsistent product quality success rates and yields.
Each of these risks could delay or prevent the completion of our clinical trials or the approval of any of our drug candidates by the
FDA or other comparable regulatory authorities, result in higher costs or adversely impact the commercialization of our drug candidates.
In addition, we rely on third parties to perform certain specification tests on our drug candidates prior to delivery to patients. If these tests
are not appropriately done and test data is not reliable, patients could be put at risk of serious harm and the FDA or other comparable
regulatory authorities could place significant restrictions on our company until deficiencies are remedied.
The manufacture of biopharmaceutical products is complex and requires significant expertise and capital investment, including the
development of advanced manufacturing techniques and process controls. Currently, our drug raw materials for our manufacturing
activities are supplied by multiple source suppliers. We have agreements for the supply of drug materials with manufacturers or suppliers
that we believe have sufficient capacity to meet our demands. In addition, we believe that adequate alternative sources for such supplies
exist. However, there is a risk that, if supplies are interrupted, our business would be materially harmed.
Manufacturers of biopharmaceutical products often encounter difficulties in production, particularly in scaling up or out, validating
the production process, and assuring high reliability of the manufacturing process, including the absence of contamination. These
problems include logistics and shipping, difficulties with production costs and yields, quality control, including stability of the product,
product testing, operator error and availability of qualified personnel, as well as compliance with strictly enforced regulations in the
United States and other applicable jurisdictions. Further, if contaminants are discovered in the supply of our drug candidates or in the
manufacturing facilities, such manufacturing facilities may need to be closed for an extended period of time for us to investigate and
remedy the contamination. There can be no assurance that any stability failures or other issues relating to the manufacture of our drug
candidates will not occur in the future. Additionally, our contract manufacturers may experience manufacturing difficulties due to
resource constraints or as a result of labor disputes or unstable political environment. If our contract manufacturers were to encounter any
of these difficulties, or otherwise fail to comply with their contractual obligations, our ability to provide our drug candidate to patients in
clinical trials would be jeopardized. Any delay or interruption in the supply of clinical trial supplies could delay the completion of our
clinical trials, increase the costs associated with maintaining clinical trial programs and, depending upon the period of delay, require us to
begin new clinical trials at additional expense or terminate clinical trials completely.
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We have entered into collaborations and may form or seek collaborations or strategic alliances or enter into additional licensing
arrangements in the future, and we may not realize the benefits of such alliances or licensing arrangements.
We may form or seek strategic alliances, create joint ventures or collaborations, or enter into additional licensing arrangements with
third parties that we believe will complement or augment our development and commercialization efforts with respect to our drug
candidates and any future drug candidates that we may develop. Any of these relationships may require us to incur recurring or non-
recurring expenses and other charges, increase our near and long-term expenditures, issue securities that dilute the value of our ADSs, or
disrupt our management and business. In addition, we face significant competition in seeking appropriate strategic partners and the
negotiation process is time-consuming and complex. Moreover, we may not be successful in our efforts to establish a strategic
partnership or other alternative arrangements for our drug candidates because they may be deemed to be at too early a stage of
development for collaborative effort and third parties may not view our drug candidates as having the requisite potential to demonstrate
safety and efficacy. If and when we collaborate with a third party for the development and commercialization of a drug candidate, we can
expect to relinquish some or all of the control over the future success of that drug candidate to the third party.
Further, collaborations involving our drug candidates are subject to specific risks, which include, but are not limited to, the
following:
● collaborators have significant discretion in determining the efforts and resources that they will apply to a collaboration;
● collaborators may not pursue the development and commercialization of our drug candidates or may elect not to continue or
renew the development or commercialization programs based on clinical trial results, change in their strategic focus due to the
acquisition of competitive drugs, availability of funding, or other external factors, such as a business combination that diverts
resources or creates competing priorities;
● collaborators may delay clinical trials, provide insufficient funding for a clinical trial, discontinue a clinical trial, repeat or
conduct new clinical trials, or require a new formulation of a drug candidate for clinical testing;
● collaborators could independently develop, or develop with third parties, drugs that compete directly or indirectly with our drug
candidates or future drugs;
● collaborators with marketing and distribution rights to one or more of our drug candidates or future drugs may not commit
sufficient resources to their marketing and distribution;
● collaborators may not properly maintain or defend our intellectual property rights or may use our intellectual property or
proprietary information in a way that gives rise to actual or threatened litigation that could jeopardize or invalidate our
intellectual property or proprietary information or expose us to potential liability;
● collaborators may not always be cooperative or responsive in providing their services in a clinical trial;
● disputes may arise between us and a collaborator that cause a delay or termination of the research, development or
commercialization of our drug candidates, or that result in costly litigation or arbitration that diverts management attention and
resources;
● collaborations may be terminated and, if terminated, may result in a need for additional capital to pursue further development or
commercialization of the applicable drug candidates; and
● collaborators may own or co-own intellectual property covering our drug candidates or future drugs that results from our
collaborating with them, and in such cases, we would not have the exclusive right to commercialize such intellectual property.
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As a result, for any ongoing collaborations or any collaboration or license agreements and strategic partnerships we may enter into in
the future, we may not be able to realize the benefit of such transactions if we are unable to address the risks mentioned above and
successfully integrate these agreements or partnerships with our existing operations and company culture, which could delay our
timelines or otherwise adversely affect our business. For example, in September 2020, we granted AbbVie Ireland Unlimited Company,
or AbbVie, a global license, excluding mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, to develop and commercialize lemzoparlimab (as well as
certain other compounds directed against CD47). On August 15, 2022, we and AbbVie Global Enterprises Ltd. (as an assignee of
AbbVie) entered into an amendment to the original licensing and collaboration agreement. This amended agreement is referred to as the
AbbVie Collaboration Agreement. AbbVie discontinued certain clinical studies of lemzoparlimab, and such discontinuations were not
related to any specific or unexpected safety concerns. This change led to a lowered probability of achieving a key milestone that was
included in the consideration of revenue recognition in prior years. Accordingly, we recorded a reduction in the revenue of approximately
US$48.0 million in the second half of 2022. On September 21, 2023, we received a notice from AbbVie, terminating the AbbVie
Collaboration Agreement in its entirety. As a result, we recognized an impairment of goodwill of RMB162.6 million (US$22.9 million)
in 2023. Following the effectiveness of the termination and the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, we
currently own the ex-Greater China rights to develop and commercialize certain CD47 compounds and products, including
lemzoparlimab. For a more detailed discussion, please see “Item 4. Information on the Company—A. History and Development of the
Company” and “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects.”
In addition, we may even face disputes, litigations or other proceedings in relation to our collaboration relationship with other
parties. For example, disputes have arisen between Tracon Pharmaceuticals, Inc., or Tracon, and us in relation to the collaboration
agreements to co-develop our proprietary CD73 antibody, TJD5 and to co-develop up to five bispecific antibodies. These disputes were
presented to a binding arbitration proceeding under the Rules of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce before an
arbitration tribunal. On April 25, 2023, the arbitration award determined that the agreement in relation to TJD5 has been terminated for a
pre-agreed termination fee of US$9.0 million plus interest payable pursuant to the original agreement, and therefore Tracon has no rights
to share any future economics with I-Mab. The arbitration award completely denied Tracon’s damages claim of over US$200 million for
any breach and awarded no damages to Tracon. The tribunal also confirmed the termination of the agreement in relation to bispecific
antibodies. Based on the arbitration award, I-Mab bears a portion of Tracon’s legal fees and costs, totaling approximately US$13.5
million. As of the date of this annual report, we have paid the pre-agreed termination fee in relation to TJD5 and the agreed-upon portion
of Tracon’s legal fees and costs to Tracon. See “Item 8. Financial Information—A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial
Information—Legal Proceedings” for details. We cannot assure you that similar disputes will not occur again and we cannot assure you
that no lawsuits will be initiated by other companies in the future. Also, these legal proceedings may be expensive, time-consuming and
disruptive to our operations and divert our management’s attention. We cannot predict the possible outcome of the legal proceedings of
such nature in the future and there can also be no assurance that we will prevail in those legal proceedings.
Neither can we be certain that, following a strategic transaction or license, we will be able to achieve the revenue or specific net
income that justifies such transaction. If we are unable to reach agreements with suitable collaborators on a timely basis, on acceptable
terms, or at all, we may have to curtail the development of a drug candidate, reduce or delay its development program or one or more of
our other development programs, delay its potential commercialization or reduce the scope of any sales or marketing activities, or
increase our expenditures and undertake development or commercialization activities at our own expense. If we elect to fund and
undertake development or commercialization activities on our own, we may need to obtain additional expertise and additional capital,
which may not be available to us on acceptable terms or at all. If we fail to enter into collaborations and do not have sufficient funds or
expertise to undertake the necessary development and commercialization activities, we may not be able to further develop our drug
candidates or bring them to market and generate product sales revenue, which would harm our business, financial condition, results of
operations and prospects.
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Risks Related to Our Intellectual Property
If we are unable to obtain and maintain patent and other intellectual property protection for our drug candidates, or if the scope of
such intellectual property rights obtained is not sufficiently broad, third parties could develop and commercialize products and
technologies similar or identical to ours and compete directly against us, and our ability to successfully commercialize any product or
technology may be adversely affected.
Our success depends in large part on our ability to protect our proprietary technology and drug candidates from competition by
obtaining, maintaining, defending and enforcing our intellectual property rights, including patent rights. Following the divestiture of the
Greater China assets and business operations and as of the date of this annual report, our owned patent portfolio consists of 58 issued
patents and 82 patent applications primarily in connection with the drug candidates in our Global portfolio, including 8 Patent
Cooperation Treaty patent applications, 10 U.S. patent applications, one PRC patent application and 121 patent applications in other
jurisdictions. We seek to protect the drug candidates and technology that we consider commercially important by filing patent
applications in the United States and other countries or regions, relying on trade secrets or pharmaceutical regulatory protection or
employing a combination of these methods. This process is expensive and time-consuming, and we or our licensors may not be able to
file and prosecute all necessary or desirable patent applications in all jurisdictions at a reasonable cost or in a timely manner. It is also
possible that we or our licensors will fail to identify patentable aspects of our research and development output before it is too late to
obtain patent protection.
The patent position of biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies generally is highly uncertain, involves complex legal and
factual questions and has in recent years been the subject of much litigation. As a result, the issuance, scope, validity, enforceability and
commercial value of our patent rights are highly uncertain. Our pending and future patent applications may not result in patents being
issued which protect our technology or drug candidates or which effectively prevent others from commercializing competitive
technologies and drug candidates. The patent examination process may require us or our licensors to narrow the scope of the claims of
our or our licensors’ pending and future patent applications, which may limit the scope of patent protection that may be obtained. We
cannot assure that all of the potentially relevant prior art relating to our patents and patent applications has been found. If such prior art
exists, it can invalidate a patent or prevent a patent application from being issued as a patent.
Even if patents do issue on any of these applications, there can be no assurance that a third party will not challenge their validity,
enforceability, or scope, which may result in the patent claims being narrowed or invalidated, or that we will obtain sufficient claim
scope in those patents to prevent a third party from competing successfully with our drug candidates. We may become involved in
interference, inter partes review, post grant review, ex parte reexamination, derivation, opposition or similar other proceedings
challenging our patent rights or the patent rights of others. An adverse determination in any such proceeding could reduce the scope of,
or invalidate, our patent rights, allow third parties to commercialize our technology or drug candidates and compete directly with us, or
result in our inability to manufacture or commercialize drug candidates without infringing third-party patent rights. Thus, even if our
patent applications issue as patents, they may not issue in a form that will provide us with any meaningful protection, prevent
competitors from competing with us or otherwise provide us with any competitive advantage.
Our competitors may be able to circumvent our patents by developing similar or alternative technologies or drug candidates in a
non-infringing manner. The issuance of a patent is not conclusive as to its scope, validity or enforceability, and our owned and licensed
patents may be challenged in the courts or patent offices in the United States and other countries. Such challenges may result in patent
claims being narrowed, invalidated or held unenforceable, which could limit our ability to stop or prevent us from stopping others from
using or commercializing similar or identical technology and drug candidates, or limit the duration of the patent protection of our
technology and drug candidates. Given the amount of time required for the development, testing and regulatory review of new drug
candidates, patents protecting such assets might expire before or shortly after such assets are commercialized. As a result, our patent
portfolio may not provide us with sufficient rights to exclude others from commercializing drug candidates similar or identical to ours.
Changes in either the patent laws or interpretation of the patent laws in the United States and other countries may diminish the value
of our patents or narrow the scope of our patent protection. Under the America Invents Act enacted in 2011, the United States moved to
this first-to-file system in early 2013 from the previous system under which the first to make the claimed invention was entitled to the
patent. Assuming the other requirements for patentability are met, the first to file a patent application is entitled to the patent.
Publications of discoveries in the scientific literature often lag behind the actual discoveries, and patent applications in the United States
and other jurisdictions are typically not published until 18 months after filing, or in some cases not at all. Therefore, we cannot be certain
that we were the first to make the inventions claimed in our patents or pending patent applications, or that we were the first to file for
patent protection of such inventions.
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We enjoy only limited geographical protection with respect to certain patents and may not be able to protect our intellectual property
rights throughout the world.
Filing and prosecuting patent applications and defending patents covering our drug candidates in all countries throughout the world
could be prohibitively expensive. Competitors may use our and our licensors’ technologies in jurisdictions where we have not obtained
patent protection to develop their own drug candidates and, further, may export otherwise infringing drug candidates to territories, where
we and our licensors have patent protection, but enforcement rights are not as strong as that in the United States or Europe. These drug
candidates may compete with our drug candidates, and our and our licensors’ patents or other intellectual property rights may not be
effective or sufficient to prevent them from competing.
The laws of some jurisdictions do not protect intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws or rules and regulations in the
United States and Europe, and many companies have encountered significant difficulties in protecting and defending such rights in such
jurisdictions. The legal systems of certain countries, particularly certain developing countries, do not favor the enforcement of patents,
trade secrets and other intellectual property protection, which could make it difficult for us to stop the infringement of our patents or
marketing of competing drug candidates in violation of our proprietary rights generally. Proceedings to enforce our patent rights in other
jurisdictions, whether or not successful, could result in substantial costs and divert our efforts and attention from other aspects of our
business, could put our patents at risk of being invalidated or interpreted narrowly and our patent applications at risk of not issuing as
patents, and could provoke third parties to assert claims against us. We may not prevail in any lawsuits that we initiate and the damages
or other remedies awarded, if any, may not be commercially meaningful. Accordingly, our efforts to enforce our intellectual property
rights around the world may be inadequate to obtain a significant commercial advantage from the intellectual property that we develop or
license. Furthermore, while we intend to protect our intellectual property rights in our expected significant markets, we cannot ensure
that we will be able to initiate or maintain similar efforts in all jurisdictions in which we may wish to market our drug candidates.
Accordingly, our efforts to protect our intellectual property rights in such countries may be inadequate, which may have an adverse effect
on our ability to successfully commercialize our drug candidates in all of our expected significant foreign markets. If we or our licensors
encounter difficulties in protecting, or are otherwise precluded from effectively protecting, the intellectual property rights important for
our business in such jurisdictions, the value of these rights may be diminished and we may face additional competition from others in
those jurisdictions.
Some countries also have compulsory licensing laws under which a patent owner may be compelled to grant licenses to third parties.
In addition, some countries limit the enforceability of patents against government agencies or government contractors. In those countries,
the patent owner may have limited remedies, which could materially diminish the value of such patents. If we or any of our licensors is
forced to grant a license to third parties with respect to any patents relevant to our business, our competitive position may be impaired.
Obtaining and maintaining our patent protection depends on compliance with various procedural, document submission, fee
payment, and other requirements imposed by governmental patent agencies, and our patent protection could be reduced or eliminated
for non-compliance with these requirements.
Periodic maintenance and annuity fees on any issued patent are due to be paid to the United States Patent and Trademark Office and
foreign patent agencies over the lifetime of a patent. In addition, the United States Patent and Trademark Office and other foreign patent
agencies require compliance with a number of procedural, documentary, fee payment, and other similar provisions during the patent
application process. While an inadvertent failure to make payment of such fees or to comply with such provisions can in many cases be
cured by payment of a late fee or by other means in accordance with the applicable rules, there are situations in which such non-
compliance will result in the abandonment or lapse of the patent or patent application, and the partial or complete loss of patent rights in
the relevant jurisdiction.
Non-compliance events that could result in abandonment or lapse of a patent or patent application include failure to respond to
official actions within prescribed time limits, and non-payment of fees and failure to properly legalize and submit formal documents
within prescribed time limits. If we or our licensors fail to maintain the patents and patent applications covering our drug candidates or if
we or our licensors otherwise allow our patents or patent applications to be abandoned or lapse, our competitors might be able to enter
the market, which would hurt our competitive position and could impair our ability to successfully commercialize our drug candidates in
any indication for which they are approved.
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Our owned and in-licensed patents and other intellectual property may be subject to further priority disputes or to inventorship
disputes and similar proceedings. If we or our future licensors are unsuccessful in any of these proceedings, we may be required to
obtain licenses from third parties, which may not be available on commercially reasonable terms or at all, or to modify or cease the
development, manufacture and commercialization of one or more of the drug candidates we may develop, which could have a
material adverse impact on our business.
We may license in patents from other parties from time to time. We or our future licensors may be subject to claims that former
employees, collaborators or other third parties have an interest in our owned or future in-licensed patents or other intellectual property as
an inventor or co-inventor. If we or our future licensors are unsuccessful in any interference proceedings or other priority or validity
disputes (including any patent oppositions) to which we or they are subject, we may lose valuable intellectual property rights through the
loss of one or more patents owned or licensed or our owned or licensed patent claims may be narrowed, invalidated, or held
unenforceable. In addition, if we or our future licensors are unsuccessful in any inventorship disputes to which we or they are subject, we
may lose valuable intellectual property rights, such as exclusive ownership of, or the exclusive right to use, our owned or future in-
licensed patents. If we or our future licensors are unsuccessful in any interference proceeding or other priority or inventorship dispute,
we may be required to obtain and maintain licenses from third parties, including parties involved in any such interference proceedings or
other priority or inventorship disputes. Such licenses may not be available on commercially reasonable terms or at all, or may be non-
exclusive. If we are unable to obtain and maintain such licenses, we may need to modify or cease the development, manufacture, and
commercialization of one or more of our drug candidates. The loss of exclusivity or the narrowing of our owned and licensed patent
claims could limit our ability to stop others from using or commercializing similar or identical drug products. Any of the foregoing could
result in a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or prospects. Even if we are successful in an
interference proceeding or other similar priority or inventorship disputes, it could result in substantial costs and be a distraction to our
management and other employees.
Claims that our drug candidates or the sale or use of our future products infringe, misappropriate or otherwise violate the patents or
other intellectual property rights of third parties could result in costly litigation or could require substantial time and money to
resolve, even if litigation is avoided.
We cannot guarantee that our drug candidates or the sale or use of our future products do not and will not in the future infringe,
misappropriate or otherwise violate third-party patents or other intellectual property rights. Third parties might allege that we are
infringing their patent rights or that we have misappropriated their trade secrets, or that we are otherwise violating their intellectual
property rights, whether with respect to the manner in which we have conducted our research, or with respect to the use or manufacture
of the compounds we have developed or are developing. Litigation relating to patents and other intellectual property rights in the
biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical industries is common, including patent infringement lawsuits. The various markets in which we
plan to operate are subject to frequent and extensive litigation regarding patents and other intellectual property rights. Some claimants
may have substantially greater resources than we have and may be able to sustain the costs of complex intellectual property litigation to a
greater degree and for longer periods of time than we could. Third parties might resort to litigation against us or other parties we have
agreed to indemnify, which litigation could be based on either existing intellectual property or intellectual property that arises in the
future.
It is also possible that we failed to identify, or may in the future fail to identify, patents or patent applications held by third parties
that cover our drug candidates. Publication of discoveries in the scientific or patent literature often lags behind actual discoveries.
Therefore, we cannot be certain that we were the first to invent, or the first to file patent applications on, our drug candidates or for their
uses, or that our drug candidates will not infringe patents that are currently issued or that are issued in the future. In the event that a third
party has also filed a patent application covering one of our drug candidates or a similar invention, our patent application may be
regarded as a competing application and may not be approved in the end. Additionally, pending patent applications that have been
published can, subject to certain limitations, be later amended in a manner that could cover our products or their use.
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If a third party were to assert claims of patent infringement against us, even if we believe such third-party claims are without merit, a
court of competent jurisdiction could hold that these third-party patents are valid, enforceable and infringed, and the holders of any such
patents may be able to block our ability to commercialize the applicable product unless we obtained a license under the applicable
patents, or until such patents expire or are finally determined to be invalid or unenforceable. Similarly, if any third-party patents were
held by a court of competent jurisdiction to cover aspects of our compositions, formulations, or methods of treatment, prevention, or use,
the holders of any such patents may be able to block our ability to develop and commercialize the applicable product unless we obtained
a license or until such patent expires or is finally determined to be invalid or unenforceable. In addition, defending such claims would
cause us to incur substantial expenses and could cause us to pay substantial damages, if we are found to be infringing a third party’s
patent rights. These damages potentially include increased damages and attorneys’ fees if we are found to have infringed such rights
willfully. In order to avoid or settle potential claims with respect to any patent or other intellectual property rights of third parties, we
may choose or be required to seek a license from a third party and be required to pay license fees or royalties or both, which could be
substantial. These licenses may not be available on acceptable terms, or at all. Even if we were able to obtain a license, the rights may be
nonexclusive, which could result in our competitors gaining access to the same intellectual property. Ultimately, we could be prevented
from commercializing a drug candidate, or be forced, by court order or otherwise, to modify or cease some or all aspects of our business
operations, if, as a result of actual or threatened patent or other intellectual property claims, we are unable to enter into licenses on
acceptable terms. Further, we could be found liable for significant monetary damages as a result of claims of intellectual property
infringement.
Defending against claims of patent infringement, misappropriation of trade secrets or other violations of intellectual property rights
could be costly and time-consuming, regardless of the outcome. Furthermore, because of the substantial amount of discovery required in
connection with intellectual property litigation, there is a risk that some of our confidential information could be compromised by
disclosure during this type of litigation. Thus, even if we were to ultimately prevail, or to settle at an early stage, such litigation could
burden us with substantial unanticipated costs.
Evolvement in the U.S. patent law could diminish the value of patents in general, thereby impairing our ability to protect our drug
candidates.
Changes in either the patent laws or interpretation of the patent laws in the United States could increase the uncertainties and costs
surrounding the prosecution of patent applications and the enforcement or defense of issued patents. Under the Leahy-Smith America
Invents Act enacted in 2011, the United States moved to a first-to-file system in early 2013, from the previous system under which the
first to make a claimed invention was entitled to the patent. Publications of discoveries in the scientific and academic literature often lag
behind the actual discoveries, and patent applications in the United States and other jurisdictions are typically not published until 18
months after filing, or in some cases not at all. Therefore, we cannot be certain that we were the first to file for patent protection on the
inventions claimed in our patents or pending patent applications.
Furthermore, the patent positions of pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies are generally uncertain. Recent U.S. Supreme
Court rulings have narrowed the scope of patent protection available in certain circumstances and weakened the rights of patent owners
in certain situations. For example, in Amgen Inc. v. Sanofi, 598 U.S. 594, 143 S. Ct. 1243 (2023), the U.S. Supreme Court held that
Amgen’s patent claims to a class of antibodies functionally defined by their ability to bind a particular antigen were invalid for lack of
enablement where the patent specification provided twenty-six exemplary antibodies, but the claimed class of antibodies covered a “vast
number” of additional antibodies not disclosed in the specification. The U.S. Supreme Court stated that if patent claims are directed to an
entire class of compositions of matter, then the patent specification must enable a person skilled in the art to make and use the entire class
of compositions. As such, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to obtain patents covering our drug candidates. This decision and
other recent rulings have created uncertainty with respect to the validity and enforceability of patents, once obtained. Depending on
future actions by the U.S. Congress, the federal courts and the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the laws and regulations
governing patents could change in unpredictable ways. In addition, the complexity and uncertainty of European patent laws have also
increased in recent years. Any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our owned and in-licensed patent portfolio and
our ability to protect and enforce our intellectual property in the future.
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Issued patents covering one or more of our drug candidates could be found invalid or unenforceable if challenged in court.
Despite measures we take to obtain and maintain patent and other intellectual property rights with respect to our drug candidates, our
intellectual property rights could be challenged or invalidated. For example, if we were to initiate legal proceedings against a third party
to enforce a patent covering one of our drug candidates, the defendant could counterclaim that our patent is invalid and/or unenforceable.
Grounds for a validity challenge could be an alleged failure to meet any of several statutory requirements, for example, lack of novelty,
obviousness or non-enablement. Grounds for an unenforceability assertion could be an allegation that someone connected with
prosecution of the patent withheld relevant information from the United States Patent and Trademark Office, or the applicable foreign
counterpart, or made a misleading statement, during prosecution. Although we believe that we have conducted our patent prosecution in
accordance with a duty of candor and in good faith, the outcome following legal assertions of invalidity and unenforceability during
patent litigation is unpredictable. If a defendant were to prevail on a legal assertion of invalidity and/or unenforceability, we would lose
at least part, and perhaps all, of the patent protection on a drug candidate. Even if a defendant does not prevail on a legal assertion of
invalidity and/or unenforceability, our patent claims may be construed in a manner that would limit our ability to enforce such claims
against the defendant and others. Even if we establish infringement, the court may decide not to grant an injunction against further
infringing activity and instead award only monetary damages, which may not be an adequate remedy. In addition, if the breadth or
strength of protection provided by our patents is threatened, it could dissuade companies from collaborating with us to license, develop,
or commercialize our current or future drug candidates. Any loss of patent protection could have a material adverse impact on one or
more of our drug candidates and our business.
Enforcing our intellectual property rights against third parties may also cause such third parties to file other counterclaims against us,
which could be costly to defend and could require us to pay substantial damages, cease the sale of certain drugs or enter into a license
agreement and pay royalties (which may not be possible on commercially reasonable terms or at all).
Intellectual property litigation may lead to unfavorable publicity which may harm our reputation and cause the market price of our
ADSs to decline, and any unfavorable outcome from such litigation could limit our research and development activities and/or our
ability to commercialize our drug candidates.
During the course of any intellectual property litigation, there could be public announcements of the results of hearings, rulings on
motions, and other interim proceedings in the litigation. If securities analysts or investors regard these announcements as negative, the
perceived value of our drug candidates, future drugs, programs or intellectual property could be diminished. Accordingly, the market
price of our ADSs may decline. Such announcements could also harm our reputation or the market for our drug candidates, which could
have a material adverse effect on our business.
In the event of intellectual property litigation, there can be no assurance that we would prevail, even if the case against us is weak or
flawed. If third parties successfully assert their intellectual property rights against us, prohibitions against using certain technologies, or
prohibitions against commercializing our drug candidates, could be imposed by a court or by a settlement agreement between us and a
plaintiff. In addition, if we are unsuccessful in defending against allegations that we have infringed, misappropriated or otherwise
violated the patent or other intellectual property rights of others, we may be forced to pay substantial damage awards to the plaintiff.
Additionally, we may be required to obtain a license from the intellectual property owner in order to continue our research and
development programs or to commercialize any resulting product. It is possible that the necessary license will not be available to us on
commercially acceptable terms, or at all. This may not be technically or commercially feasible, may render our products less competitive,
or may delay or prevent the launch of our products to the market. Any of the foregoing could limit our research and development
activities, our ability to commercialize one or more drug candidates, or both.
Most of our competitors are larger than we are and have substantially greater resources. They are, therefore, likely to be able to
sustain the costs of complex intellectual property litigation longer than we could. In addition, the uncertainties associated with litigation
could have a material adverse effect on our ability to raise the funds necessary to conduct our clinical trials, continue our internal
research programs, in-license needed technology, or enter into strategic partnerships that would help us bring our drug candidates to
market.
In addition, any future intellectual property litigation, interference or other administrative proceedings will result in additional
expense and distraction of our personnel. An adverse outcome in such litigation or proceedings may expose us or any future strategic
partners to loss of our proprietary position, expose us to significant liabilities, or require us to seek licenses that may not be available on
commercially acceptable terms, if at all, each of which could have a material adverse effect on our business.
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Changes in patent law could diminish the value of patents in general, thereby impairing our ability to protect our drug candidates.
As is the case with other biopharmaceutical companies, our success is heavily dependent on intellectual property, particularly patent
rights. Obtaining and enforcing patents in the biopharmaceutical industry involves both technological and legal complexity, and is
therefore costly, time-consuming, and inherently uncertain. In addition, the United States has enacted and implemented wide-ranging
patent reform legislation. The U.S. Supreme Court rulings have narrowed the scope of patent protection available in certain
circumstances and weakened the rights of patent owners in certain situations. In addition to increasing uncertainty with regard to our
ability to obtain patents in the future, this combination of events has created uncertainty with respect to the value of patents once
obtained, if any. Depending on decisions by the U.S. Congress, the federal courts and the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the
laws and regulations governing patents could change in unpredictable ways that would weaken our ability to obtain new patents or to
enforce our existing patents and patents that we might obtain in the future. For example, in Assoc. for Molecular Pathology v. Myriad
Genetics, Inc., the U.S. Supreme Court held that certain claims to naturally-occurring substances are not patentable. Although we do not
believe that our currently issued patents and any patents that may issue from our pending patent applications directed to our drug
candidates if issued in their currently pending forms, as well as patent rights licensed by us, will be found invalid based on this decision,
we cannot predict how future decisions by the courts, the U.S. Congress or the United States Patent and Trademark Office may impact
the value of our patent rights. There could be similar changes in the laws of foreign jurisdictions that may impact the value of our patent
rights or our other intellectual property rights.
If we are unable to protect the confidentiality of our trade secrets, our business and competitive position would be harmed. We also
may be subject to claims that our employees, consultants, or advisers have wrongfully used or disclosed alleged trade secrets of their
former employers or claims asserting ownership of what we regard as our own intellectual property.
In addition to our issued patents and pending patent applications, we rely on trade secret and confidential information, including
unpatented know-how, technology and other proprietary information, to maintain our competitive position and to protect our drug
candidates. We seek to protect this trade secret and confidential information, in part, by entering into non-disclosure and confidentiality
agreements with parties that have access to them, such as our employees, corporate collaborators, outside scientific collaborators,
sponsored researchers, contract manufacturers, consultants, advisers and other third parties. We also enter into confidentiality and
invention or patent assignment agreements with our employees and consultants. However, any of these parties may breach such
agreements and disclose our proprietary information, and we may not be able to obtain adequate remedies for such breaches. For
example, due to Tracon’s wrong-doing during the confidential arbitration process, we are pursuing a trade secret misappropriation
lawsuit case against a competitor of us and seeking remedies, including potentially substantial monetary damages. Regardless of the
outcome, litigations or arbitrations can have an adverse impact on us because of defense and settlement costs, diversion of management
resources and other factors. Enforcing a claim that a party illegally disclosed or misappropriated a trade secret can be difficult, expensive
and time-consuming, and the outcome is unpredictable. If any of our trade secrets were to be lawfully obtained or independently
developed by a competitor or other third party, we would have no right to prevent them from using that technology or information to
compete with us and our competitive position would be harmed.
Furthermore, many of our employees, consultants, and advisers, including our senior management, were previously employed at
other biotechnology or pharmaceutical companies, including our competitors or potential competitors. Some of these employees,
consultants, and advisers, including members of our senior management, executed proprietary rights, non-disclosure and non-
competition agreements in connection with such previous employment. Although we try to ensure that our employees do not use the
proprietary information or know-how of others in their work for us, we may be subject to claims that we or these employees have used or
disclosed intellectual property, including trade secrets or other proprietary information, of any such individual’s former employer. We are
not aware of any threatened or pending claims related to these matters or concerning the agreements with our senior management, but in
the future litigation may be necessary to defend against such claims. If we fail in defending any such claims, in addition to paying
monetary damages, we may lose valuable intellectual property rights or personnel. Even if we are successful in defending against such
claims, litigation could result in substantial costs and be a distraction to management. In addition, while we typically require our
employees, consultants and contractors who may be involved in the development of intellectual property to execute agreements assigning
such intellectual property to us, we may be unsuccessful in executing such an agreement with each party who in fact develops intellectual
property that we regard as our own, and furthermore, the assignment of intellectual property rights may not be self-executing, or the
assignment agreements may be breached, each of which may result in claims by or against us related to the ownership of such intellectual
property. If we fail in prosecuting or defending any such claims, in addition to paying monetary damages, we may lose valuable
intellectual property rights. Even if we are successful in prosecuting or defending against such claims, litigation could result in
substantial costs, be a distraction to our management and scientific personnel and have a material adverse effect on our business,
financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
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We may not be successful in obtaining or maintaining necessary rights for our development pipeline through acquisitions and in-
licenses.
Because our programs may involve additional drug candidates that may require the use of proprietary rights held by third parties, the
growth of our business may depend in part on our ability to acquire and maintain licenses or other rights to use these proprietary rights.
We may be unable to acquire or in-license any compositions, methods of use, or other intellectual property rights from third parties that
we identify. The licensing and acquisition of third-party intellectual property rights is a competitive area, and a number of more
established companies are also pursuing strategies to license or acquire third-party intellectual property rights that we may consider
attractive or necessary. These established companies may have a competitive advantage over us due to their size, cash resources and
greater clinical development and commercialization capabilities. In addition, companies that perceive us to be a competitor may be
unwilling to assign or license rights to us. We also may be unable to license or acquire third-party intellectual property rights on terms
that would allow us to make an appropriate return on our investment or at all. If we are unable to successfully obtain rights to required
third-party intellectual property rights or maintain the existing intellectual property rights we have, we may have to abandon
development of relevant programs or drug candidates, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition,
results of operations and prospects for growth.
Our rights to develop and commercialize our drug candidates are subject, in part, to the terms and conditions of licenses granted to us
by others.
We rely on licenses to certain patent rights and other intellectual property from third parties that are important or necessary to the
development of our drug candidates. These and other licenses may not provide exclusive rights to use such intellectual property in all
relevant fields of use and in all territories in which we may wish to develop or commercialize our drug products. As a result, we may not
be able to prevent competitors from developing and commercializing competitive drug products in territories included in all of our
licenses.
We may not have the right to control the preparation, filing, prosecution, maintenance, enforcement, and defense of patents and
patent applications covering the drug candidates that we license from third parties. Moreover, we have not had and do not have primary
control over these activities for certain of our patents or patent applications and other intellectual property rights that we jointly own with
certain of our licensors and sub-licensors. Therefore, we cannot be certain that these patents and patent applications will be prepared,
filed, prosecuted, maintained, enforced, and defended in a manner consistent with the best interests of our business. If our licensors fail
to prosecute, maintain, enforce and defend such patents, or lose rights to those patents or patent applications, the rights we have licensed
may be reduced or eliminated, and our right to develop and commercialize any of our drugs that are subject of such licensed rights could
be adversely affected.
Pursuant to the terms of the license agreements with some of our licensors, the licensors may have the first right to control
enforcement of our licensed patents or defense of any claims asserting the invalidity or unenforceability of these patents. Even if we are
permitted to pursue the enforcement or defense of our licensed patents, we will require the cooperation of our licensors and any
applicable patent owners and such cooperation may not be provided to us. We cannot be certain that our licensors will allocate sufficient
resources or prioritize their or our enforcement of such patents or defense of such claims to protect our interests in the licensed patents.
Even if we are not a party to these legal actions, an adverse outcome could harm our business because it might prevent us from
continuing to license intellectual property that we may need to operate our business. If we lose any of our licensed intellectual property,
our right to develop and commercialize any of our drug candidates that are subject of such licensed rights could be adversely affected.
In addition, our licensors may have relied on third-party consultants or collaborators or on funds from third parties such that our
licensors are not the sole and exclusive owners of the patents we in-license. This could have a material adverse effect on our competitive
position, business, financial conditions, results of operations, and prospects.
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In spite of our best efforts, our licensors might conclude that we have materially breached our license agreements and might
therefore terminate the license agreements, thereby removing our ability to develop and commercialize drug products covered by these
license agreements. If such licenses are terminated, we may be required seek alternative in-license arrangements, which may not be
available on commercially reasonable terms or at all, or may be non-exclusive. If these in-licenses are terminated, or if the underlying
patents fail to provide the intended exclusivity, we may need to modify or cease the development, manufacture, and commercialization of
one or more of our drug candidates and competitors would have the freedom to seek regulatory approval of, and to market, products
identical to ours. In addition, we may seek to obtain additional licenses from our licensors and, in connection with obtaining such
licenses, we may agree to amend our existing licenses in a manner that may be more favorable to the licensors, including by agreeing to
terms that could enable third parties (potentially including our competitors) to receive licenses to a portion of the intellectual property
that is subject to our existing licenses. Any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our competitive position, business,
financial conditions, results of operations, and prospects.
If we fail to comply with our obligations in the agreements under which we license intellectual property rights from third parties or
otherwise experience disruptions to our business relationships with our licensors, we could be required to pay monetary damages or
could lose license rights that are important to our business.
Our business relies partially on our ability to develop and commercialize drug candidates we have licensed from third parties, and
we have entered into license agreements with third parties providing us with rights to various third-party intellectual property, including
rights in patents and patent applications. Our licenses may not encumber all intellectual property rights owned or controlled by the
affiliates of our licensors and relevant to our drug candidates, and we may need to obtain additional licenses from our existing licensors
and others to advance our research or allow commercialization of drug candidates we may develop. In such case, we may need to obtain
additional licenses which may not be available on an exclusive basis, on commercially reasonable terms or at a reasonable cost, if at all.
In that event, we may be required to expend significant time and resources to redesign our drug candidates or the methods for
manufacturing them or to develop or license replacement technology, all of which may not be feasible on a technical or commercial
basis. If we are unable to do so, we may be unable to develop or commercialize the affected drug candidates, which could harm our
business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects significantly.
In addition, if our licensors breach the license agreements, we may not be able to enforce such agreements against our licensors’
parent entity or affiliates. Under each of our license and intellectual property-related agreements, in exchange for licensing or
sublicensing us the right to develop and commercialize the applicable drug candidates, our licensors will be eligible to receive from us
milestone payments, tiered royalties from commercial sales of such drug candidates, assuming applicable approvals from government
authorities are obtained, or other payments. Our license and intellectual property-related agreements also require us to comply with other
obligations including development and diligence obligations, providing certain information regarding our activities with respect to such
drug candidates and/or maintaining the confidentiality of information we receive from our licensors.
If we fail to comply with our obligations under our current or future license agreements, our counterparties may have the right to
terminate these agreements and, upon the effective date of such termination, have the right to re-obtain the licensed and sub-licensed
technology and intellectual property. If any of our licensors terminate any of our licenses, we might not be able to develop, manufacture
or market any drug or drug candidate that is covered by the licenses provided for under these agreements and other third parties may be
able to market drug candidates similar or identical to ours. In such case, we may have to negotiate new or reinstated agreements with less
favorable terms, and may be required to provide a grant back license to the licensors under our own intellectual property with respect to
the terminated products. We may also face claims for monetary damages or other penalties under these agreements. While we would
expect to exercise all rights and remedies available to us, including seeking to cure any breach by us, and otherwise seek to preserve our
rights under the intellectual property rights licensed and sublicensed to us, we may not be able to do so in a timely manner, at an
acceptable cost or at all. In particular, some of the milestone payments are payable upon our drug candidates reaching development
milestones before we have commercialized, or received any revenue from, sales of such drug candidate, and we cannot guarantee that we
will have sufficient resources to make such milestone payments. Any uncured, material breach under the license agreements could result
in our loss of exclusive rights and may lead to a complete termination of our rights to the applicable drug candidate. Any of the foregoing
could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial conditions, results of operations, and prospects.
It is possible that we may be unable to obtain any additional licenses at a reasonable cost or on reasonable terms, if at all. Certain
license agreements may also require us to meet development thresholds to maintain the license, including establishing a set timeline for
developing and commercializing products. Disputes may arise regarding intellectual property subject to a license agreement, including:
● the scope of rights granted under the license agreement and other interpretation-related issues;
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● the extent to which our technology and processes infringe, misappropriate or violate intellectual property of the licensor that is
not subject to the license agreement;
● the sublicensing of patent and other rights under our collaborative development relationships;
● our diligence obligations under the license agreement and what activities satisfy those diligence obligations;
● the inventorship and ownership of inventions and know-how resulting from the joint creation or use of intellectual property by
our licensors and us and our partners; and
● the priority of invention of patented technology.
In addition, the agreements under which we license intellectual property or technology from third parties are complex, and certain
provisions in such agreements may be susceptible to multiple interpretations. The resolution of any contract interpretation disagreement
that may arise could narrow what we believe to be the scope of our rights to the intellectual property or technology, or increase what we
believe to be our financial or other obligations under the agreements, either of which could have a material adverse effect on our
business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects. Moreover, if disputes over intellectual property that we have licensed
prevent or impair our ability to maintain our current licensing arrangements on commercially acceptable terms, we may be unable to
successfully develop and commercialize the affected drug candidates, which could have a material adverse effect on our business,
financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Intellectual property rights do not necessarily protect us from all potential threats to our competitive advantage.
The degree of future protection afforded by our intellectual property rights is uncertain because intellectual property rights have
limitations, and may not adequately protect our business, or permit us to maintain our competitive advantage. The following examples
are illustrative:
● others may be able to make compounds that are similar to our drug candidates but that are not covered by the claims of the
patents that we own or have exclusively licensed;
● we might not have been the first to make the inventions covered by the issued patents or pending patent applications that we
own or may in the future exclusively license, which could result in the patents applied for not being issued or being invalidated
after issuing;
● we might not have been the first to file patent applications covering certain of our inventions, which could result in the patents
applied for not being issued or being invalidated after issuing;
● others may independently develop similar or alternative technologies or duplicate any of our technologies without infringing
our intellectual property rights;
● it is possible that our pending patent applications will not lead to issued patents;
● issued patents that we own or have exclusively licensed may not provide us with any competitive advantages, or may be held
invalid or unenforceable, as a result of legal challenges by our competitors or other third parties;
● we may obtain patents for certain compounds many years before we receive regulatory approval for drugs containing such
compounds, and because patents have a limited life, which may begin to run prior to the commercial sale of the related drugs,
the commercial value of our patents may be limited;
● our competitors might conduct research and development activities in countries where we do not have patent rights and then use
the information learned from such activities to develop competitive drugs for commercialization in our major markets;
● we may fail to develop additional proprietary technologies that are patentable;
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● we may fail to apply for or obtain adequate intellectual property protection in all the jurisdictions in which we operate;
● third parties may gain unauthorized access to our intellectual property due to potential lapses in our information systems; and
● the patents of others may have an adverse effect on our business, for example by preventing us from commercializing one or
more of our drug candidates for one or more indications.
Any of the aforementioned threats to our competitive advantage could have a material adverse effect on our business and future
prospects.
If our trademarks and trade names are not adequately protected, we may not be able to build name recognition in our markets of
interest and our competitive position may be adversely affected.
We own registered trademarks. We may not be able to obtain trademark protection in territories that we consider of significant
importance to us. In addition, any of our trademarks or trade names, whether registered or unregistered, may be challenged, opposed,
infringed, cancelled, circumvented or declared generic, or determined to be infringing on other marks, as applicable. We may not be able
to protect our rights to these trademarks and trade names, which we will need to build name recognition by potential collaborators or
customers in our markets of interest. Over the long term, if we are unable to establish name recognition based on our trademarks and
trade names, we may not be able to compete effectively and our business may be adversely affected.
Terms of our future patents may not be sufficient to effectively protect our drug candidates and business.
In many countries where we file applications for patents, the term of an issued patent is generally 20 years from the earliest claimed
filing date of a non-provisional patent application in the applicable country. Although various extensions may be available, the life of a
patent and the protection it affords are limited. Even if we obtain patents covering our drug candidates, we may still be open to
competition from other companies, as well as generic medications once the patent life has expired for a drug.
If we are unable to obtain patent term extensions or if such extensions are less than requested for, our competitors may obtain
approval of competing products following our patent expirations and our business, financial condition, results of operations and
prospects could be materially harmed as a result.
If we do not obtain additional protection under the Hatch-Waxman Amendments and similar legislation in other countries extending
the terms of our patents, if issued, relating to our drug candidates, our business may be materially harmed.
Depending upon the timing, duration and specifics of FDA regulatory approval for our drug candidates, one or more of our U.S.
patents, if issued, may be eligible for limited patent term restoration under the Drug Price Competition and Patent Term Restoration Act
of 1984, or the Hatch-Waxman Amendments. The Hatch-Waxman Amendments permit a patent term extension of up to five years as
compensation for patent term lost during drug development and the FDA regulatory review process. Patent term extensions, however,
cannot extend the remaining term of a patent beyond a total of 14 years from the date of drug approval by the FDA, and only one patent
can be extended for a particular drug.
The application for patent term extension is subject to approval by the United States Patent and Trademark Office, in conjunction
with the FDA. We may not be granted an extension because of, for example, failing to apply within applicable deadlines, failing to apply
prior to expiration of patents or otherwise failing to satisfy applicable requirements. Moreover, the applicable time period or the scope of
patent protection afforded could be less than we request. If we are unable to obtain a patent term extension for a given patent or the term
of any such extension is less than we request, the period during which we will have the right to exclusively market our drug will be
shortened and our competitors may obtain earlier approval of competing drugs, and our ability to generate revenues could be materially
adversely affected.
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Risks Related to Our Industry, Business and Operations
We face significant risks related to the transition of our business focus to the U.S. market and our business and prospects may be
materially and adversely affected.
With the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, our business has been focused on the development and
commercialization of drug candidates with ex-Greater China rights. Following the completion of the divestiture, we ceased to own the
Greater China portfolio and the number of drug candidates in our pipeline was significantly reduced. Moreover, we have recently
experienced significant changes in our management. See “—Our future success depends on our ability to attract, retain and motivate
senior management and qualified scientific employees.”
As we are going through the transition period, there is no guarantee that we may successfully advance our existing drug candidates
in our pipeline towards clinical development or successfully executing our business strategies. We may also in the future adjust our
business focus or seek other business opportunities. Any such changes may have a material adverse impact on our business operations,
financial position and our reputation.
Our future success depends on our ability to attract, retain and motivate senior management and qualified scientific employees.
We are highly dependent on the expertise of the members of our research and development team, as well as the principal members of
our management. We have entered into employment agreements with our executive officers, but each of them may terminate their
employment with us at any time with prior written notice. In addition, we currently do not have “key-man” insurance for any of our
executive officers or other key personnel.
Recruiting, retaining and motivating qualified management, scientific, clinical, manufacturing and sales and marketing personnel
will also be critical to our success. We have recently experienced significant changes in our management and board of directors. For
example, in June 2023, Raj Kannan joined us as our Chief Executive Officer. In February 2024, Andrew Zhu stepped down from the
board of directors and resigned from his executive position with our company, and in the same month, Joseph Skelton joined us as our
Chief Financial Officer. The loss of the services of our executive officers or other key employees could impede the achievement of our
research, development and commercialization objectives and seriously harm our ability to successfully implement our business strategy.
Further, replacing executive officers and key employees may be difficult and may take an extended period of time because of the limited
number of individuals in our industry with the breadth of skills and experience required to successfully develop, gain regulatory approval
of and commercialize drugs. Competition to hire from this limited pool is intense, and we may be unable to hire, train, retain or motivate
these key personnel on acceptable terms given the competition among numerous biopharmaceutical companies for similar personnel. We
also experience competition for the hiring of scientific and clinical personnel from universities and research institutions. In addition, our
management may need to devote additional time to compliance initiatives stemming from our status as a public company, potentially
necessitating the recruitment of more management personnel. These changes in our management may be disruptive to our business and,
during the transition period, there may be uncertainty among investors, employees and others concerning our future direction and
performance. Any such disruption or uncertainty could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of
operations and our reputation.
We will need to increase the size and capabilities of our organization, and we may experience difficulties in managing our
development.
Although we expect to experience a sizable decrease in the number of our employees and consultants and the scope of our operations
in the short term, particularly in the areas of clinical development, regulatory affairs and business development, in connection with the
divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, we expect to experience growth in the size and capabilities of our
company in the long term. To manage our future development, we must continue to implement and improve our managerial, operational
and financial systems, expand our facilities and continue to recruit and train additional qualified personnel. Due to our limited financial
resources, we may not be able to effectively manage our operations or recruit and train additional qualified personnel. The expansion of
our operations may lead to significant costs and may divert our management and business development resources. Any inability to
manage growth could delay the execution of our business plans or disrupt our operations, and have a material adverse effect on our
business.
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The data and information that we gather in our research and development process could be inaccurate or incomplete, which could
harm our business, reputation, financial condition and results of operations.
We collect, aggregate, process, and analyze data and information from our pre-clinical studies, manufacturing technology
development programs and clinical programs. We also engage in substantial information gathering following the identification of a
promising drug candidate. Because data in the healthcare industry is fragmented in origin, inconsistent in format, and often incomplete,
the overall quality of data collected or accessed in the healthcare industry is often subject to challenge, the degree or amount of data
which is knowingly or unknowingly absent or omitted can be material, and we often discover data issues and errors when monitoring and
auditing the quality of our data. If we make mistakes in the capture, input, or analysis of these data, our ability to advance the
development of our drug candidates may be materially harmed and our business, prospects and reputation may suffer.
We also engage in the procurement of regulatory approvals necessary for the development and commercialization of our products
under development, for which we manage and submit data to governmental entities. These processes and submissions are governed by
complex data processing and validation policies and regulations. Notwithstanding such policies and regulations, interim, top-line or
preliminary data from our clinical trials that we announce or publish from time to time may change as more patient data become
available and are subject to audit and verification procedures that could result in material changes in the final data, in which case we may
be exposed to liability to a customer, court or government agency that concludes that our storage, handling, submission, delivery, or
display of health information or other data was wrongful or erroneous.
Although we maintain insurance coverage for clinical trials, this coverage may prove to be inadequate or could cease to be available
to us on acceptable terms, if at all. Even unsuccessful claims could result in substantial costs and diversion of management time,
attention, and resources. A claim brought against us that is uninsured or under-insured could harm our business, financial condition and
results of operations.
In addition, we rely on CROs, our partners and other third parties to monitor and manage data for some of our ongoing pre-clinical
and clinical programs and control only certain aspects of their activities. If any of our CROs, our partners or other third parties do not
perform to our standards in terms of data accuracy or completeness, data from those pre-clinical and clinical trials may be compromised
as a result, and our reliance on these parties does not relieve us of our regulatory responsibilities. For a detailed discussion, see “—Risks
Related to Our Reliance on Third Parties—As we rely on third parties to conduct our pre-clinical studies and clinical trials, if we lose our
relationships with these third parties or if they do not successfully carry out their contractual duties or meet expected deadlines, we may
not be able to obtain regulatory approval for or commercialize our drug candidates and our business could be substantially harmed.”
We may be subject to liability lawsuits arising from our clinical trials.
We currently carry liability insurance covering our clinical trials. Although we maintain such insurance, any claim that may be
brought against us could result in a court judgment or settlement in an amount that is not covered, in whole or in part, by our insurance or
which is in excess of the limits of our insurance coverage. Our insurance policies also contain various exclusions, and we may be subject
to particular liability claims for which we have no coverage. We will have to pay any amount awarded by a court or negotiated in a
settlement that exceed our coverage limitations or that are not covered by our insurance, and we may not have, or be able to obtain,
sufficient capital to pay such amounts. In addition, if we cannot successfully defend ourselves against such claims, we may incur
substantial liabilities and be required to suspend or delay our ongoing clinical trials. Even a successful defense would require significant
financial and management resources.
Regardless of the merits or eventual outcome, liability claims may result in significant negative consequences to our business and
prospects, including, but not limited to:
● decreased demand for our drug candidates or any resulting products;
● injury to our reputation;
● withdrawal of other clinical trial participants;
● costs to defend the related litigation;
● a diversion of our management’s time and resources;
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● substantial monetary awards to trial participants or patients;
● inability to commercialize our drug candidates; and
● a decline in the market price of our ADSs.
We have limited insurance coverage, and any claims beyond our insurance coverage may result in our incurring substantial costs and
a diversion of resources.
We maintain insurance policies that are required under PRC laws and regulations as well as insurance based on our assessment of
our operational needs and industry practice. We also maintain liability insurance covering our clinical trials. In line with industry
practice, we have elected not to maintain certain types of insurances, such as business interruption insurance or key-man insurance. Our
insurance coverage may be insufficient to cover any claim for product liability, damage to our fixed assets or employee injuries. Any
liability or damage to, or caused by, our facilities or our personnel beyond our insurance coverage may result in our incurring substantial
costs and a diversion of resources.
Disruptions in the financial markets and economic conditions could affect our ability to raise capital.
Global economies could suffer dramatic downturns as a result of a deterioration in the credit markets and related financial crisis as
well as a variety of other factors including, extreme volatility in security prices, severely diminished liquidity and credit availability,
ratings downgrades of certain investments and declining valuations of others. In the past, governments have taken unprecedented actions
in an attempt to address and rectify these extreme market and economic conditions by providing liquidity and stability to the financial
markets. If these actions are not successful, the return of adverse economic conditions may cause a significant impact on our ability to
raise capital, if needed, on a timely basis and on acceptable terms, or at all.
In addition, there is considerable uncertainty over the long-term effects of the expansionary monetary and fiscal policies adopted by
the central banks and financial authorities of some of the world’s leading economies, including the United States and China. There have
been concerns over unrest and terrorist threats in the Middle East, Europe and Africa and over the conflicts involving Ukraine, Syria,
North Korea and the Gaza Strip. There have also been concerns on the relationship among China and other Asian countries, which may
result in or intensify potential conflicts in relation to territorial disputes or the trade related disputes between the United States and China.
It is unclear whether these challenges and uncertainties will be contained or resolved, and what effects they may have on the global
political and economic conditions in the long term.
Our employees, independent contractors, consultants, commercial partners and vendors may engage in misconduct or other improper
activities, including non-compliance with regulatory standards and requirements.
We are exposed to the risk of fraud, misconduct or other illegal activities by our employees, independent contractors, consultants,
commercial partners and vendors. Misconduct by these parties could include intentional, reckless and negligent conduct that fails to:
● comply with the laws of the FDA and other comparable regulatory authorities;
● provide true, complete and accurate information to the FDA and other comparable regulatory authorities;
● comply with manufacturing standards we have established;
● comply with healthcare fraud and abuse laws in the United States and similar fraudulent misconduct laws in other applicable
jurisdictions; or
● report financial information or data accurately or to disclose unauthorized activities to us.
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If we obtain approval of any of our drug candidates and begin commercializing those drugs in the United States or other applicable
jurisdictions, our potential exposure under the laws of such jurisdictions will increase significantly and our costs associated with
compliance with such laws are also likely to increase. These laws may impact, among other things, our current activities with principal
investigators and research patients, as well as future sales, marketing and education programs. In particular, the promotion, sales and
marketing of healthcare items and services, as well as certain business arrangements in the healthcare industry, are subject to extensive
laws designed to prevent fraud, kickbacks, self-dealing and other abusive practices. These laws and regulations may restrict or prohibit a
wide range of pricing, discounting, marketing and promotion, structuring and commission(s), certain customer incentive programs and
other business arrangements generally. Activities subject to these laws also involve the improper use of information obtained in the
course of patient recruitment for clinical trials, which could result in regulatory sanctions and cause serious harm to our reputation.
It is not always possible to identify and deter misconduct by employees and other parties, and the precautions we take to detect and
prevent this activity may not be effective in controlling unknown or unmanaged risks or losses or in protecting us from governmental
investigations or other actions or lawsuits stemming from a failure to comply with these laws or regulations. If any such actions are
instituted against us, and we are not successful in defending ourselves or asserting our rights, those actions could have a significant
impact on our business, including the imposition of significant fines or other sanctions.
If we engage in future acquisitions or strategic partnerships, this may increase our capital requirements, dilute the value of your
investment in our ADSs, cause us to incur debt or assume contingent liabilities, and subject us to other risks.
We may evaluate various acquisitions and strategic partnerships, including licensing or acquiring complementary products,
intellectual property rights, technologies or businesses. Any potential acquisition or strategic partnership may entail numerous risks,
including, but not limited to:
● increased operating expenses and cash requirements;
● the assumption of additional indebtedness or contingent liabilities;
● the issuance of our equity securities;
● assimilation of operations, intellectual property and products of an acquired company, including difficulties associated with
integrating new personnel;
● the diversion of our management’s attention from our existing product programs and initiatives in pursuing such a strategic
merger or acquisition;
● retention of key employees, the loss of key personnel, and uncertainties in our ability to maintain key business relationships;
● risks and uncertainties associated with the assimilation of operations, corporate culture and personnel of the acquired business;
● risks and uncertainties associated with the other party to such a transaction, including the prospects of that party and its existing
drugs or drug candidates and regulatory approvals;
● our inability to generate revenue from acquired technology and/or products sufficient to meet our objectives in undertaking the
acquisition or even to offset the associated acquisition and maintenance costs; and
● changes in accounting principles relating to recognition and measurement of our investments that may have a significant impact
on our financial results.
In addition, if we undertake acquisitions, we may issue dilutive securities, assume or incur debt obligations, incur large one-time
expenses and acquire intangible assets that could result in significant future amortization expense. Moreover, we may not be able to
locate suitable acquisition opportunities and this inability could impair our ability to develop or obtain access to technology or products
that may be important to the development of our business.
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If we fail to comply with applicable anti-bribery laws, our reputation may be harmed and we could be subject to penalties and
significant expenses that have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We are subject to the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which generally prohibits us from making improper payments to non-U.S.
officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. Although we have policies and procedures designed to ensure that we, our
employees and our agents comply with applicable anti-bribery laws, there is no assurance that such policies or procedures will prevent
our agents, employees and intermediaries from engaging in bribery activities. Failure to comply with anti-bribery laws could disrupt our
business and lead to severe criminal and civil penalties, including imprisonment, criminal and civil fines, loss of our export licenses,
suspension of our ability to do business with the government, denial of government reimbursement for our products and/or exclusion
from participation in government healthcare programs. Other remedial measures could include further changes or enhancements to our
procedures, policies, and controls and potential personnel changes and/or disciplinary actions, any of which could have a material
adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and liquidity. We could also be adversely affected by any
allegation that we violated such laws.
Any failure to comply with applicable regulations and industry standards or obtain various licenses and permits could harm our
reputation and our business, results of operations and prospects.
A number of governmental agencies or industry regulatory bodies in the United States and other applicable jurisdictions impose
strict rules, regulations and industry standards governing biopharmaceutical research and development activities, which apply to us. Our
or our CROs’ failure to comply with such regulations could result in the termination of ongoing research, administrative penalties
imposed by regulatory bodies or the disqualification of data for submission to regulatory authorities. This could harm our business,
reputation, prospects for future work and results of operations. For example, if we or our CROs were to treat research animals
inhumanely or in violation of international standards set out by the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal
Care, it could revoke any such accreditation and the accuracy of our animal research data could be questioned.
If we or our CROs or other contractors or consultants fail to comply with environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, we
could become subject to fines or penalties or incur costs that could have a material adverse effect on the success of our business.
We and third parties, such as our CROs or other contractors or consultants, are subject to numerous environmental, health and safety
laws and regulations, including those governing laboratory procedures and the handling, use, storage, treatment and disposal of
hazardous materials and wastes. Our operations involve the use of hazardous and flammable materials, including chemicals and
radioactive and biological materials. Our operations also produce hazardous waste products. We generally contract with third parties for
the disposal of these materials and wastes. We cannot eliminate the risk of contamination or injury from these materials. In the event of
contamination or injury resulting from our use of hazardous materials, we could be held liable for any resulting damages, and any
liability could exceed our resources. We also could incur significant costs associated with civil or criminal fines and penalties.
Although we maintain workers’ compensation insurance to cover us for costs and expenses we may incur due to injuries to our
employees resulting from the use of or exposure to hazardous materials, this insurance may not provide adequate coverage against
potential liabilities. We do not maintain insurance for environmental liability or toxic tort claims that may be asserted against us in
connection with our storage, use or disposal of biological, hazardous or radioactive materials.
In addition, we may be required to incur substantial costs to comply with current or future environmental, health and safety laws and
regulations. These current or future laws and regulations may impair our research, development or production efforts. Failure to comply
with these laws and regulations also may result in substantial fines, penalties or other sanctions.
If we face allegations of non-compliance with laws and encounter sanctions, our reputation, revenues and liquidity may suffer, and
our drug candidates and future drugs could be subject to restrictions or withdrawal from the market.
Any government investigation of alleged violations of laws could require us to expend significant time and resources in response,
and could generate negative publicity. Any failure to comply with ongoing regulatory requirements may significantly and adversely
affect our ability to commercialize and generate revenues from our drugs. If regulatory sanctions are applied or if regulatory approval is
withdrawn, the value of our company and our operating results will be adversely affected. Additionally, if we are unable to generate
revenues from our product sales, our potential for achieving profitability will be diminished and the capital necessary to fund our
operations will be increased.
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Our internal computer systems, or those used by our CROs or other contractors or consultants, may fail or suffer security breaches.
Although to our knowledge we have not experienced any material system failure or security breach to date, if such an event were to
occur and cause interruptions in our operations, it could result in a material disruption of our development programs and our business
operations. For example, the loss of clinical trial data from completed or future clinical trials could result in delays in our regulatory
approval efforts and significantly increase our costs to recover or reproduce the data. Likewise, we partially rely on our third-party
research institution collaborators for research and development of our drug candidates and other third parties for the manufacture of our
drug candidates and to conduct clinical trials, and similar events relating to their computer systems could also have a material adverse
effect on our business.
To the extent that any disruption or security breach were to result in a loss of, or damage to, our data or applications, or inappropriate
disclosure of confidential or proprietary information, we could incur liability and the further development and commercialization of our
drug candidates could be delayed.
Any failure to comply with the various applicable laws and regulations related to data security, cybersecurity and personal
information and privacy protection could affect our offshore offerings and lead to liabilities, penalties or other regulatory actions,
which could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The regulatory framework for the collection, use, safeguarding, sharing, transfer and other processing of personal information
worldwide is rapidly evolving and is likely to remain uncertain for the foreseeable future. Regulatory authorities in virtually every
jurisdiction in which we operate have implemented and are considering a number of legislative and regulatory proposals concerning
personal data protection.
In the United States, we are subject to laws and regulations that address privacy, personal information protection and data security at
both the federal and state levels. Numerous laws and regulations, including security breach notification laws, health information privacy
laws, and consumer protection laws, govern the collection, use, disclosure and protection of health-related and other personal
information. Given the variability and evolving state of these laws, we face uncertainty as to the exact interpretation of the new
requirements, and we may be unsuccessful in implementing all measures required by regulators or courts in their interpretation. For
example, the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, as amended by the Health Information Technology for
Economic and Clinical Health Act, and their respective implementing regulations, imposes requirements relating to the privacy, security
and transmission of individually identifiable health information. Among other things, the Health Information Technology for Economic
and Clinical Health Act, through its implementing regulations, makes certain of privacy and security standards under the Health
Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 directly applicable to business associates, defined as a person or organization, other
than a member of a covered entity’s workforce, that creates, receives, maintains or transmits protected health information for or on behalf
of a covered entity for a function or activity regulated by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 as well as their
covered subcontractors.
In Europe, regulatory authorities have implemented and are considering a number of legislative and regulatory proposals concerning
data protection. For example, the General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679, which became effective in May 2018, imposes a
broad range of strict requirements on companies, such as us, including, but not limited to, requirements relating to having legal bases for
processing personal information relating to identifiable individuals and transferring such information outside the European Economic
Area (including to the United States) and providing details to those individuals regarding the processing of their personal information,
keeping personal information secure. The General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679 substantially increases the penalties to
which we could be subject in the event of any non-compliance, including fines of up to 10,000,000 Euros or up to 2% of our total
worldwide annual turnover for certain comparatively minor offenses, or up to 20,000,000 Euros or up to 4% of our total worldwide
annual turnover for more serious offenses. Given the new law, we face uncertainty as to the exact interpretation of the new requirements,
and we may be unsuccessful in implementing all measures required by data protection authorities or courts in interpretation of the new
law. National laws of member states of the European Union are in the process of being adapted to the requirements under the General
Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679. Because the General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679 specifically gives member
states flexibility with respect to certain matters, national laws may partially deviate from this regulation and impose different obligations
from country to country, leading to additional complexity and uncertainty.
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We expect that we will continue to face uncertainty as to whether our efforts to comply with evolving obligations under global data
protection, privacy and security laws will be sufficient. Any failure or perceived failure by us to comply with applicable laws and
regulations could result in reputational damage or proceedings or actions against us by governmental entities, individuals or others.
These proceedings or actions could subject us to significant civil or criminal penalties and negative publicity, result in the delayed or
halted transfer or confiscation of certain personal information, require us to change our business practices, increase our costs and
materially harm our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, our current and future relationships
with customers, vendors, pharmaceutical partners and other third parties could be negatively affected by any proceedings or actions
against us or current or future data protection obligations imposed on them under applicable laws, including the General Data Protection
Regulation (EU) 2016/679. In addition, a data breach affecting personal information, including health information, could result in
significant legal and financial exposure and reputational damage that could potentially have an adverse effect on our business.
A severe or prolonged downturn in the United States or global economy could materially and adversely affect our business and
financial condition.
COVID-19 had a severe and negative impact on the United States and the global economy from 2020 through 2022, and the global
macroeconomic environment still faces numerous challenges. The Federal Reserve and other central banks have raised interest rates. The
Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Hamas-Israel conflict and the attacks on shipping in the Red Sea have heightened geopolitical tensions
across the world. The impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on Ukraine food exports has contributed to increases in food prices and thus
to inflation more generally. There have also been concerns about the relationship between the United States and other countries which
may potentially have economic effects. Economic conditions in the United States are sensitive to global economic conditions, as well as
changes in domestic economic and political policies and the expected or perceived overall economic growth rate in the United States.
Any severe or prolonged slowdown in the global or the United States economy may materially and adversely affect our business, results
of operations and financial condition.
Any of these factors and other factors beyond our control could have an adverse effect on the overall business sentiment and
environment, cause uncertainties in the regions where we conduct business, cause our business to suffer in ways that we cannot predict
and materially and adversely impact our business, financial conditions and results of operations.
Our business and results of operations could be adversely affected by public health crisis and natural catastrophes or other disasters
outside of our control in the locations in which we, our suppliers, CROs, contract manufacturing organizations and other contractors
operate.
Natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, health epidemics, or other factors beyond our control may adversely affect the economy,
infrastructure and livelihood of the people in the regions where we conduct our business. In addition to the impact of COVID-19, global
pandemics in the locations in which we, our suppliers, CROs, contract manufacturing organizations and other contractors operate, or fear
of spread of contagious diseases, such as avian influenza, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), influenza A (H1N1), Ebola or
another epidemic could disrupt the business operations of our company, our suppliers, CROs, contract manufacturing organizations and
other contractors. Our operations may also be under the threat of floods, earthquakes, sandstorms, snowstorms, fire or drought, power,
water or fuel shortages, failures, malfunction and breakdown of information management systems, unexpected maintenance or technical
problems, or may be susceptible to potential wars or terrorist attacks. Serious natural disasters may result in loss of lives, injury,
destruction of assets and disruption of our business and operations. Acts of war or terrorism may also injure our employees, cause loss of
lives, disrupt our business network and destroy our markets.
The occurrence of any of the foregoing events is beyond our control but may result in regional or global economic distress, which
may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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If we fail to implement and maintain an effective system of internal controls over financial reporting, we may be unable to accurately
report our results of operations, meet our reporting obligations or prevent fraud.
We are a public company in the United States subject to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-
Oxley Act, we are required to include a report by our management on our internal control over financial reporting and our independent
registered public accounting firm must include an attestation report on internal control over financial reporting in our annual reports. Our
management may conclude that our internal control over financial reporting is not effective. Moreover, even if our management
concludes that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, our independent registered public accounting firm, after
conducting its own independent testing, may issue an adverse report if it is not satisfied with our internal controls or the level at which
our controls are documented, designed, operated or reviewed, or if it interprets the applicable requirements differently from us. In
addition, as a public company, our reporting obligations may place a significant strain on our management, operational and financial
resources and systems for the foreseeable future. We may be unable to timely complete our evaluation testing and any required
remediation. Our management, with the participation of our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, and our independent
registered public accounting firm evaluated the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting and concluded that our
internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2023. See also “Item 15. Controls and Procedures” for a
detailed description.
If we fail to maintain the adequacy of our internal control over financial reporting, as these standards are modified, supplemented or
amended from time to time, we may not be able to conclude on an ongoing basis that we have effective internal control over financial
reporting in accordance with Section 404. If we fail to establish and maintain adequate internal controls, we could suffer material
misstatements in our financial statements and fail to meet our reporting obligations, which would likely cause investors to lose
confidence in our reported financial information. This could limit our access to capital markets, adversely affect our results of operations
and lead to a decline in the trading price of the ADSs. Additionally, ineffective internal controls could expose us to an increased risk of
fraud or misuse of corporate assets and subject us to potential delisting from the stock exchange on which we list or to other regulatory
investigations and civil or criminal sanctions. We could also be required to restate our historical financial statements.
We may be subject to material litigation and regulatory proceedings.
We may be subject to litigation relating to securities law class actions, third-party and principal intellectual property infringement
claims, claims relating to data and privacy protection, contractual agreements, employment related cases and other matters in the
ordinary course of our business. For details of the material legal proceedings that we are subject to, see “Item 8. Financial Information—
A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.” Laws, rules and regulations may vary in their scope
and laws and regulations outside the U.S. may impose requirements that are more stringent than, or which conflict with, those in the U.S.
We have acquired and may acquire companies that may become subject to litigation, as well as regulatory proceedings. In connection
with our prior investment in I-Mab Hangzhou, we through I-Mab Hong Kong were obligated to repurchase the equity held by any then-
existing shareholder in I-Mab Hangzhou by cash upon the occurrence of certain triggering events. In connection with the divestiture of
the Greater China assets and business operations, we have transferred the equity interests we held in I-Mab Hangzhou to certain
participating shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou in exchange for extinguishment of the existing repurchase obligations owed by I-Mab
Hong Kong to those shareholders in the amount of approximately US$183 million. However, the non-participating shareholders of I-Mab
Hangzhou have initiated legal proceedings against I-Mab Hong Kong and our company in connection with the aforementioned
transaction. On January 31, 2024, the non-participating shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou, commenced arbitration against I-Mab Hong
Kong before China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission Zhejiang Sub-Commission. These non-participating
shareholders seek monetary relief amounting to US$17.36 million as of January 29, 2024 in total and an order that I-Mab Hong Kong
pay all arbitration fees and property preservation fees incurred by them. The arbitration proceeding before the Zhejiang arbitration sub-
commission is still pending. We have not yet received the notice of hearing and are currently unable to predict the outcome of the
arbitration. In addition, in connection with litigation or regulatory proceedings we may be subject to in various jurisdictions, we may be
prohibited by laws, regulations or government authorities in one jurisdiction from complying with subpoenas, orders or other requests
from courts or regulators of other jurisdictions, including those relating to data held in or with respect to persons in these jurisdictions.
Our failure or inability to comply with the subpoenas, orders or requests could subject us to fines, penalties or other legal liability, which
could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, results of operations and the trading price of our ADSs.
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As a publicly listed company, we and certain of our subsidiaries face additional exposure to claims and lawsuits. We will need to
defend against these lawsuits, including any appeals should our initial defense be successful. The litigation process may utilize a material
portion of our cash resources and divert management’s attention away from the day-to-day operations of our company, all of which could
harm our business. There can be no assurance that we will prevail in any of these cases, and any adverse outcome of these cases could
have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business and results of operations. In addition, although we have obtained directors’ and
officers’ liability insurance, the insurance coverage may not be adequate to cover our obligations to indemnify our directors and officers,
fund a settlement of litigation in excess of insurance coverage or pay an adverse judgment in litigation.
The existence of litigation, claims, investigations and proceedings may harm our reputation, limit our ability to conduct our business
in the affected areas and adversely affect the trading price of our ADSs. The outcome of any claims, investigations and proceedings is
inherently uncertain, and in any event defending against these claims could be both costly and time-consuming, and could significantly
divert the efforts and resources of our management and other personnel. An adverse determination in any litigation, investigation or
proceeding could cause us to pay damages, incur legal and other costs, limit our ability to conduct business or require us to change the
manner in which we operate.
Negative publicity with respect to us, our management, employees, business partners, affiliates, or our industry, may materially and
adversely affect our reputation, business, results of operations and prospect.
Our reputation is vulnerable to many threats that can be difficult or impossible to control, and costly or impossible to remediate.
Negative publicity about us, such as alleged misconduct or improper activities, or negative rumors relating to us, our management,
employees, business partners or affiliates, can harm our business and results of operations, even if they are unsubstantiated or are
satisfactorily addressed. Any regulatory inquiries or investigations or other actions against our management, any perceived unethical,
fraudulent, or inappropriate business conduct by us or perceived wrong-doing by any key member of our management team or other
employees, our business partners or our affiliates, could harm our reputation and materially adversely affect our business. Regardless of
the merits or final outcome of any such regulatory inquiries or investigations or other actions, our reputation may be substantially
damaged, which may impede our ability to attract and retain talents and business partners and develop our business.
Any negative publicity concerning us, our affiliates or any entity that shares the “I-Mab” name, including the divested PRC
subsidiaries, even if untrue, could adversely affect our reputation and business prospects. There can be no assurance that negative
publicity about us or any of our affiliates or any entity that shares the “I-Mab” name would not damage our brand image or have a
material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Moreover, any negative media publicity about the biopharmaceutical industry in general or product or service quality problems of
other companies in the industry, including our peers, may also negatively impact our reputation. If we are unable to maintain a good
reputation, our ability to attract and retain key employees and business partners could be harmed which in turn may materially and
adversely affect our business, results of operations and prospect.
We face risks associated with the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations to I-Mab Hangzhou.
On February 6, 2024, we entered into definitive agreements to divest the Greater China assets and business operations, including the
rights to the Greater China portfolio, to I-Mab Hangzhou for an aggregate consideration of the RMB equivalent of up to US$80 million,
contingent on the achievement of certain future regulatory and sales-based milestone events. The divestiture transaction was closed in
April 2024. After the completion of the divestiture, we do not own any rights to the Greater China portfolio, including the Greater China
rights for eftansomatropin alfa, felzartamab, uliledlimab, and givastomig. We no longer bear future development costs of the Greater
China assets and business operations. As a result of the divestiture, we have ceased to consolidate the divested entities, assets and
businesses as well as their corresponding financial results from the second quarter of 2024. In light of that, our financial condition and
results of operations will be materially affected and our historical results will not be indicative of future financial condition or results of
operations.
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There is no assurance that we may achieve anticipated strategic benefits through the divestiture. We may experience negative
reactions as a result of the divestiture. In addition, as credit enhancement measures for payment of the consideration, I-Mab Hangzhou
will secure a bank facility or a loan with the amount no less than US$20 million. However, I-Mab Hangzhou may not be able to achieve
some or any of the future regulatory or sales-based milestone events. There also is no assurance that such credit enhancement measures
would be effective, and we may not be able to collect part or all of the consideration upon the occurrence of triggering events. Moreover,
we cannot assure you that the divestiture will not be challenged by governmental authorities or private parties. We may be subject to
litigation or other proceedings in connection with, or as a result of the divestiture, which may divert resources and management attention
and harm our reputation, and may subject us to significant consequences, including fines, indemnification of the buyers and reversal of
the divestiture.
Furthermore, we previously were the largest shareholder of I-Mab Hangzhou and were obligated to repurchase the equity held by
any then-existing shareholder in I-Mab Hangzhou by cash upon the occurrence of certain triggering events. The divestiture of the Greater
China assets and business operations extinguished the existing repurchase obligations owed by us in the amount of approximately
US$183 million to certain participating shareholders involved in the transaction. However, the non-participating shareholders of I-Mab
Hangzhou have initiated legal proceedings against I-Mab Hong Kong and our company in relation to our repurchase obligations owed to
them. The total amount of potential repurchase obligations owed to the non-participating shareholders upon the closing of the transaction
is expected to range from US$30 million to US$35 million. We are not able to predict the final outcome of such litigation, and there
might be other litigations or regulatory enforcement actions in connection with such litigation. Any adverse outcome or any other
litigation or regulatory enforcement action in connection thereof, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial
condition, results of operation, cash flows, and reputation.
We are subject to changing law and regulations regarding regulatory matters, corporate governance and public disclosure that have
increased both our costs and the risk of non-compliance.
We are or will be subject to rules and regulations by various governing bodies, including, for example, the SEC, which is charged
with the protection of investors and the oversight of companies whose securities are publicly traded, and the various regulatory
authorities in the U.S., the Cayman Islands and China, and to new and evolving regulatory measures under applicable law. Our efforts to
comply with new and changing laws and regulations have resulted in and are likely to continue to result in, increased general and
administrative expenses and a diversion of management time and attention from revenue-generating activities to compliance activities.
Moreover, because these laws, regulations and standards are subject to varying interpretations, their application in practice may
evolve over time as new guidance becomes available. This evolution may result in continuing uncertainty regarding compliance matters
and additional costs necessitated by ongoing revisions to our disclosure and governance practices. If we fail to address and comply with
these regulations and any subsequent changes, we may be subject to penalty and our business may be harmed.
Risks Related to Doing Business in China
We are subject to China’s data privacy and cybersecurity laws, regulations and guidelines and any other future laws and regulations,
which may entail significant compliance costs and adversely affect our business.
Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, we use a limited number of third-party data centers in
China to host our servers. As a result, we are subject to China’s data privacy and cybersecurity laws, regulations and guidelines. In
China, regulatory authorities have implemented and are considering a number of legislative and regulatory proposals concerning data
protection. For example, China’s Cyber Security Law, which became effective in June 2017, created China’s first national-level data
protection for “network operators,” which may include all organizations in China that provide services over the internet or another
information network. The Data Security Law, which became effective in September 2021, among other things, provides for a security
review procedure for the data activities that may affect national security. In addition, the Civil Code of the PRC, which became effective
on January 1, 2021, expressly provides the right of privacy and personal information protection. The PRC Cyber Security Law, the Data
Security Law and Civil Code are relatively new and subject to interpretation by the regulators. Although we only gain access to user
information that is necessary for, and relevant to, the businesses conducted, the data we obtain and use may include information that is
deemed as “personal information” or “important data” under the PRC Cyber Security Law, the Civil Code and related data privacy and
protection laws and regulations.
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In addition, certain industry-specific laws and regulations affect the collection and transfer of personal data in China. For example,
Regulations on the Administration of Human Genetic Resources, effective in July 2019, the latest amended edition of which will come
into effect on May 1, 2024, require approval from the Science and Technology Administration Department of the State Council where
human genetic resources are involved in any international collaborative project and additional approval for any export or cross-border
transfer of the samples of human genetic resources or associated data. It is possible that these laws may be interpreted and applied in a
manner that is inconsistent with our practices, potentially resulting in confiscation of samples of human genetic resources and associated
data, administrative fines and criminal liabilities.
Furthermore, in December 2021, the CAC and several other authorities jointly promulgated the revised Cybersecurity Review
Measures, which came into effect in February 2022. Pursuant to the Cybersecurity Review Measures, a critical information infrastructure
operator that purchases network products and services, or an internet platform operator that conducts data processing activities, shall be
subject to cybersecurity review if it affects or may affect national security. In addition, internet platform operators processing personal
information of more than one million users seeking to be listed on foreign stock markets must apply for a cybersecurity review. As of the
date of this annual report, (i) no detailed rules or implementation relating to the Cybersecurity Review Measures has been issued by any
PRC regulatory authorities, (ii) we have not been informed of being identified as a critical information infrastructure operator or an
internet platform operator, nor have we been required to go through the cybersecurity review procedures, by any PRC governmental
authorities, and (iii) we have not been involved in any investigations on cybersecurity review on such basis, nor have we received any
inquiry, notice, warning, or sanctions in such respect, by any PRC governmental authorities. Taking into consideration the above and that
(i) the preclinical and clinical data processed or handled by us in our business operations, either by its nature or in scale, do not and will
not directly or indirectly affect or potentially affect national security in any respect, and (ii) we have not possessed, and do not anticipate
to possess, in the foreseeable future, personal information of more than one million users or persons, based on our understanding of the
Cybersecurity Review Measures, we do not expect that we will be subject to cybersecurity review by the CAC in connection with our
offering of securities to foreign investors and listing on the Nasdaq. Nevertheless, the exact scope of critical information infrastructure
operator and “internet platform operator” under the current regulatory regime remains unclear, and the PRC governmental authorities
may have wide discretion to decide the identification of critical information infrastructure operator as well as in the interpretation and
enforcement of the Cybersecurity Review Measures and other laws, regulations and implementation rules. Therefore, it is uncertain
whether we would be deemed as a critical information infrastructure operator or an internet platform operator thereunder.
Since 2022, the CAC also promulgated a series of rules and regulations on outbound data transfer, outlining the regulatory
framework and providing detailed guidance. A data processor is subject to different regulatory requirements, depending on the nature,
sensitivity and volume of the data to be transferred. See “Item 4.—Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Regulation—
PRC Regulation.”
The PRC laws and regulations concerning data privacy and cybersecurity are continually evolving and not always clear, and the
measures we take to comply with these laws, regulations and industry standards may not always be effective. We cannot assure you that
we will comply with such laws and regulations regarding cybersecurity, information security, privacy and data protection in all respects
and any failure or perceived failure to comply with these laws, regulations or policy may result in inquiries, penalties and other
proceedings or actions against us by governmental authorities, such as warnings, fines, making certain required rectification, service
suspension and/or other sanctions, as well as negative publicity and damage to our reputation. It also remains uncertain whether the
future regulatory changes would impose additional restrictions on companies like us. We cannot predict the impact of the future
regulatory changes, including impact of any draft measures, at this stage, and we will closely monitor and assess any development in the
rule-making process. If additional requirements are imposed to companies like us, such as the clearance of cybersecurity review, we face
uncertainties as to whether we can fulfill those requirements in a timely manner, or at all. If we are not able to comply with the
cybersecurity and data privacy requirements in a timely manner, or at all, we may be subject to government enforcement actions and
investigations, fines, penalties or suspension of our non-compliant operations, which could materially and adversely affect our business
and results of operations.
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Uncertainties with respect to the PRC legal system could materially and adversely affect us.
The PRC legal system is a civil law system based on written statutes. Unlike the common law system, prior court decisions under the
civil law system may be cited for reference but have limited precedential value. The overall effect of legislation over the past four
decades has significantly enhanced the protections afforded to various forms of foreign investments in China. However, China has not
developed a fully integrated legal system, and currently effective laws and regulations may not sufficiently cover all aspects of economic
activities in China. Since these laws and regulations are relatively new and may be amended from time to time, and the PRC legal system
continues to rapidly evolve, and because of the limited number of published decisions and the nonbinding nature of such decisions, and
because the laws and regulations often give the regulator significant discretion in how to enforce them, the interpretations of many laws,
regulations and rules may not be uniform and enforcement of these laws, regulations and rules involves uncertainties. These uncertainties
may affect our judgment on the relevance of legal requirements and our ability to enforce our contractual rights or tort claims. Besides,
the PRC is geographically large and divided into various provinces and municipalities and, as such, different laws, rules, regulations and
policies may have different and varying applications and interpretations in different parts of the PRC. Legislation or regulations,
particularly in local applications, may be enacted without sufficient prior notice or announcement to the public. In addition, the
regulatory uncertainties may be exploited through unmerited or frivolous legal actions or threats in attempts to extract payments or
benefits from us. Furthermore, the PRC legal system is based in part on government policies and internal rules, some of which are not
published on a timely basis, or at all, and may have a retroactive effect. As a result, we may not be aware of our violation of any of these
policies and rules until sometime after the violation. Agreements that are governed by PRC laws may be more difficult to enforce by
legal or arbitral proceedings in the PRC than that in other countries with different legal systems. In addition, any administrative and court
proceedings in China may be protracted, resulting in substantial costs and diversion of resources and management attention.
The ability of U.S. authorities to bring actions for violations of U.S. securities law and regulations against us or our directors may be
limited. Therefore, you may not be afforded the same protection as provided to investors in U.S. domestic companies.
The SEC, the U.S. Department of Justice and other U.S. authorities often have substantial difficulties in bringing and enforcing
actions against non-U.S. companies and non-U.S. persons. Due to jurisdictional limitations, matters of comity and various other factors,
the SEC, the U.S. Department of Justice and other U.S. authorities may be limited in their ability to pursue bad actors, including in
instances of fraud, in emerging markets such as China. Some of our directors reside within China. There are significant legal and other
obstacles for U.S. authorities to obtain information needed for investigations or litigation against us or our directors in case we or any of
these individuals engage in fraud or other wrongdoing. In addition, local authorities in China may be constrained in their ability to assist
U.S. authorities and overseas investors in connection with legal proceedings. As a result, if we or our directors commit any securities law
violation, fraud or other financial misconduct, the U.S. authorities may not be able to conduct effective investigations or bring and
enforce actions against us, our directors or other gatekeepers. Therefore, you may not be able to enjoy the same protection provided by
various U.S. authorities as it is provided to investors in U.S. domestic companies.
The PCAOB had historically been unable to inspect our auditor in relation to their audit work performed for our financial statements
and the inability of the PCAOB to conduct inspections of our auditor in the past has deprived our investors with the benefits of such
inspections.
Our auditor, the independent registered public accounting firm that issues the audit report included elsewhere in this annual report,
as an auditor of companies that are traded publicly in the United States and a firm registered with the PCAOB, is subject to laws in the
United States pursuant to which the PCAOB conducts regular inspections to assess its compliance with the applicable professional
standards. The auditor is located in mainland China, a jurisdiction where the PCAOB was historically unable to conduct inspections and
investigations completely before 2022.
As a result, we and investors in the ADSs were deprived of the benefits of such PCAOB inspections. The inability of the PCAOB to
conduct inspections of auditors in China in the past has made it more difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of our independent registered
public accounting firm’s audit procedures or quality control procedures as compared to auditors outside of China that are subject to the
PCAOB inspections. On December 15, 2022, the PCAOB issued a report that vacated its December 16, 2021 determination and removed
mainland China and Hong Kong from the list of jurisdictions where it is unable to inspect or investigate completely registered public
accounting firms. However, if the PCAOB determines in the future that it no longer has full access to inspect and investigate completely
accounting firms in mainland China and Hong Kong, and we use an accounting firm headquartered in one of these jurisdictions to issue
an audit report on our financial statements filed with the SEC, we and investors in our ADSs would be deprived of the benefits of such
PCAOB inspections again, which could cause investors and potential investors in the ADSs to lose confidence in our audit procedures
and reported financial information and the quality of our financial statements.
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Our ADSs may be prohibited from trading in the United States under the HFCAA in the future if the PCAOB is unable to inspect or
investigate completely auditors located in China. The delisting of the ADSs, or the threat of their being delisted, may materially and
adversely affect the value of your investment.
Pursuant to the HFCAA, if the SEC determines that we have filed audit reports issued by a registered public accounting firm that has
not been subject to inspections by the PCAOB for two consecutive years, the SEC will prohibit our shares or ADSs from being traded on
a national securities exchange or in the over-the-counter trading market in the United States.
On December 16, 2021, the PCAOB issued a report to notify the SEC of its determination that the PCAOB was unable to inspect or
investigate completely registered public accounting firms headquartered in mainland China and Hong Kong and our auditor was subject
to that determination. In May 2022, the SEC conclusively listed us as a Commission-Identified Issuer under the HFCAA following the
filing of our annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021. On December 15, 2022, the PCAOB removed
mainland China and Hong Kong from the list of jurisdictions where it is unable to inspect or investigate completely registered public
accounting firms. For this reason, we were not identified as a “Commission Identified Issuer” under the HFCAA after we filed our
annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 and do not expect to be so identified after we file this annual
report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023.
Each year, the PCAOB will determine whether it can inspect and investigate completely audit firms in mainland China and Hong
Kong, among other jurisdictions. If the PCAOB determines in the future that it no longer has full access to inspect and investigate
completely accounting firms in mainland China and Hong Kong and we use an accounting firm headquartered in one of these
jurisdictions to issue an audit report on our financial statements filed with the SEC, we would be identified as a Commission-Identified
Issuer following the filing of the annual report on Form 20-F for the relevant fiscal year. In accordance with the HFCAA, our securities
would be prohibited from being traded on a national securities exchange or in the over-the-counter trading market in the United States if
we are identified as a Commission-Identified Issuer for two consecutive years in the future. If our shares and ADSs are prohibited from
trading in the United States, there is no certainty that we will be able to list on a non-U.S. exchange or that a market for our shares will
develop outside of the United States. A prohibition of being able to trade in the United States would substantially impair your ability to
sell or purchase our ADSs when you wish to do so, and the risk and uncertainty associated with delisting would have a negative impact
on the price of our ADSs. Also, such a prohibition would significantly affect our ability to raise capital on terms acceptable to us, or at
all, which would have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition, and prospects.
We may be restricted from transferring our scientific data abroad.
On March 17, 2018, the General Office of the PRC State Council promulgated the Measures for the Management of Scientific Data,
which provide a broad definition of scientific data and rules for the management of scientific data. According to these measures,
enterprises in China must seek governmental approval before any scientific data involving a state secret may be transferred abroad or to
foreign parties. Further, any researcher conducting research funded, at least in part, by the PRC government is required to submit
scientific data for management by the entity to which such researcher is affiliated before the data may be published in any foreign
academic journal. Currently, as the term “state secret” is not clearly defined, there is no assurance that we can always obtain approvals
for sending scientific data (such as the results of our clinical trials conducted within China) abroad, or to our foreign partners in China.
If we are unable to obtain the necessary approvals in a timely manner, or at all, our research and development of drug candidates
may be hindered, which may materially and adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial conditions and prospects. If the
government authorities consider the transmission of our scientific data to be in violation of the requirements under the measures, we may
be subject to specific administrative penalties imposed by those government authorities.
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Changes in international trade policies and rising political tensions, particularly between the U.S. and China, may adversely impact
our business and operating results.
The U.S. government has made statements and taken certain actions that may lead to potential changes to U.S. and international
trade policies towards China. While the “Phase One” agreement was signed between the United States and China on trade matters, it
remains unclear what additional actions, if any, will be taken by the U.S. or other governments with respect to international trade, tax
policy related to international commerce, or other trade matters. The situation is further complicated by the political tensions between the
United States and China that escalated recently and in the wake of the PRC National People’s Congress’ decision on Hong Kong national
security legislation, sanctions imposed by the U.S. Department of Treasury on certain officials of the Hong Kong Special Administrative
Region and the central government of the PRC and the executive orders issued by the then U.S. President in August 2020 that prohibit
certain transactions with certain China-based companies and their respective subsidiaries. Rising trade and political tensions could reduce
levels of trades, investments, technological exchanges and other economic activities between China and other countries, which would
have an adverse effect on global economic conditions, the stability of global financial markets, and international trade policies.
While we have not started the commercialization of our drug candidates, any rising trade and political tensions or unfavorable
government policies on international trade, such as capital controls or tariffs, may affect the demand for our drug products, the
competitive position of our drug products, the hiring of scientists and other research and development personnel, and import or export of
raw materials in relation to drug development, or prevent us from selling our drug products in certain countries. In particular, if any new
tariffs, legislation and/or regulations are implemented, or if existing trade agreements are renegotiated or, especially, if the U.S.
government takes retaliatory trade actions due to the recent U.S.-China trade and political tension, such changes could have an adverse
effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, our results of operations could be adversely affected if
any such tensions or unfavorable government trade policies harm the Chinese economy or the global economy in general.
Recent litigation and negative publicity surrounding companies with operations in China that are listed in the U.S. may result in
increased regulatory scrutiny of us and negatively impact the trading price of the ADSs and could have a material adverse effect upon
our business, including our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows and prospects.
We believe that litigation and negative publicity surrounding companies with operations in China that are listed in the U.S. have
negatively impacted stock prices for such companies. Various equity-based research organizations have published reports on China-based
companies after examining, among other things, their corporate governance practices, related party transactions, sales practices and
financial statements that have led to special investigations and stock suspensions on national exchanges. Any similar scrutiny of us,
regardless of its lack of merit, could result in a diversion of management resources and energy, potential costs to defend ourselves against
rumors, decreases and volatility in the ADS trading price, and increased directors and officers insurance premiums and could have a
material adverse effect upon our business, including our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows and prospects.
General Risks Related to Our ADSs
The trading price of our ADSs may be volatile, which could result in substantial losses to you.
For the period from January 1, 2023 to the date of this annual report, the trading price of our ADSs ranged from US$1.16 to
US$7.67 per ADS. The trading price of our ADSs can be volatile and fluctuate widely in response to a variety of factors, many of which
are beyond our control. In addition, the performance and fluctuation of the market prices of other companies with operations in the same
industry that have listed their securities in the United States may affect the volatility in the price of and trading volumes for our ADSs.
Some of these companies have experienced significant volatility. The trading performances of these companies’ securities may affect the
overall investor sentiment towards other companies listed in the United States and consequently may impact the trading performance of
our ADSs.
In addition to market and industry factors, the price and trading volume for our ADSs may be highly volatile for specific business
reasons, including:
● announcements of regulatory approval or a complete response letter, or specific label indications or patient populations for a
drug’s use, or changes or delays in the regulatory review process;
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● announcements of therapeutic innovations, new products, acquisitions, strategic relationships, joint ventures or capital
commitments by us or our competitors;
● adverse actions taken by regulatory agencies with respect to our clinical trials, manufacturing supply chain or sales and
marketing activities;
● any adverse changes to our relationship with manufacturers or suppliers;
● the results of our testing and clinical trials;
● the results of our efforts to acquire or license additional drug candidates;
● variations in the level of expenses related to our existing drugs and drug candidates or pre-clinical, clinical development and
commercialization programs;
● any intellectual property infringement actions in which we may become involved;
● announcements concerning our competitors or the pharmaceutical industry in general;
● fluctuations in product revenue, sales and marketing expenses and profitability; manufacture, supply or distribution shortages;
● variations in our results of operations;
● announcements about our results of operations that are not in line with analyst expectations, the risk of which is enhanced
because it is our policy not to give guidance on results of operations;
● publication of operating or industry metrics by third parties, including government statistical agencies, that differ from
expectations of industry or financial analysts;
● changes in financial estimates by securities research analysts;
● media reports, whether or not true, about our business, our competitors or our industry;
● additions to or departures of our management;
● fluctuations of exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the RMB or other currencies of the jurisdiction where our
contractors are located;
● release or expiry of lock-up or other transfer restrictions on our outstanding ordinary shares or ADSs;
● sales or perceived potential sales of additional ordinary shares or ADSs by us, our executive officers and directors or our
shareholders;
● any share repurchase programs;
● general economic and market conditions and overall fluctuations in the U.S. equity markets;
● changes in accounting principles; and
● changes or developments in the U.S., PRC or global regulatory environment.
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In addition, the stock market, in general, and pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies have experienced extreme price and
volume fluctuations that have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of these companies. Broad market
and industry factors may negatively affect the market price of our ADSs, regardless of our actual operating performance. Further, the
current volatility in the financial markets and related factors beyond our control may cause the market price of our ADSs to decline
rapidly and unexpectedly.
We may face an increased risk of securities class action litigation.
Historically, securities class action litigation has often been brought against a company following a significant decline in the market
price of its securities. This risk is especially relevant for us because biotechnology and biopharmaceutical companies have experienced
significant share price volatilities in recent years. If we were to face lawsuits, it could lead to substantial costs and a distraction of
management’s attention and resources, which could harm our business.
In the past, shareholders of a public company often brought securities class action suits against the company following periods of
instability in the market price of that company’s securities. If we were involved in a class action suit, it could divert a significant amount
of our management’s attention and other resources from our business and operations, which could harm our results of operations and
require us to incur significant expenses to defend the suit. Any such class action suit, whether or not successful, could harm our
reputation and restrict our ability to raise capital in the future. In addition, if a claim is successfully made against us, we may be required
to pay significant damages, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
We cannot guarantee that any share repurchase programs will be fully consummated or that any share repurchase programs will
enhance long-term shareholder value, and share repurchases could increase the volatility of the price of our ADSs and could
diminish our cash reserves.
Our board of directors has authorized share repurchase programs, pursuant to which we were authorized to repurchase our own
ordinary shares, in the form of ADSs, with an aggregate value of up to a maximum amount during a given period. We implemented share
repurchases pursuant to those authorized share repurchase programs from time to time. Our board of directors reviews the
implementation of share repurchases periodically and may authorize adjustment of the terms and size of the share repurchase programs.
For details of the purchase of equity securities by us and affiliated purchasers, see “Item 16E. Purchases of Equity Securities by the
Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers.” The timing and dollar amount of share repurchases could affect the price of our ADSs and increase
volatility. Nevertheless, there can be no assurance that any of our share repurchase programs will be fully consummated or that such
share repurchase programs could enhance long-term shareholder value. For example, of the US$40 million that we were authorized to
use in repurchasing ADSs under the share repurchase program that was in effect from September 12, 2022 through September 11, 2023,
we only used approximately US$6.8 million. Of the US$40 million that we are currently authorized to use in repurchasing ADSs under
the share repurchase program that is in effect from August 15, 2023 through August 14, 2024, we had used approximately US$4.8
million as of December 31, 2023.
If securities or industry analysts do not publish research or publish inaccurate or unfavorable research about our business, or if they
adversely change their recommendations regarding our ADSs, the market price for our ADSs and trading volume could decline.
The trading market for our ADSs will depend in part on the research and reports that securities or industry analysts publish about us
or our business. If research analysts do not establish and maintain adequate research coverage or if one or more of the analysts who
covers us downgrades our ADSs or publishes inaccurate or unfavorable research about our business, the market price for our ADSs
would likely decline. If one or more of these analysts cease coverage of our company or fail to publish reports on us regularly, we could
lose visibility in the financial markets, which, in turn, could cause the market price or trading volume for our ADSs to decline.
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Because we do not expect to pay dividends in the foreseeable future, you must rely on price appreciation of our ADSs for return on
your investment.
We currently intend to retain most, if not all, of our available funds and any future earnings to fund the development and
development of our business. As a result, we do not expect to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Therefore, you should not
rely on an investment in our ADSs as a source for any future dividend income.
Our board of directors has complete discretion as to whether to distribute dividends, subject to our memorandum and articles of
association and certain requirements of Cayman Islands law. In addition, our shareholders may by ordinary resolution declare a dividend,
but no dividend may exceed the amount recommended by our directors. Under Cayman Islands law, a Cayman Islands company may pay
a dividend out of either profit or share premium account of the company, provided that in no circumstances may a dividend be paid out of
share premium if this would result in the company being unable to pay its debts as they fall due in the ordinary course of business. Even
if our board of directors decides to declare and pay dividends, the timing, amount and form of future dividends, if any, will depend on our
future results of operations and cash flow, our capital requirements and surplus, the amount of distributions, if any, received by us from
our subsidiaries, our financial condition, contractual restrictions and other factors deemed relevant by our board of directors.
Accordingly, the return on your investment in our ADSs will likely depend entirely upon any future price appreciation of our ADSs.
There is no guarantee that our ADSs will appreciate in value or even maintain the price at which you purchased the ADSs. You may not
realize a return on your investment in our ADSs and you may even lose your entire investment in our ADSs.
Substantial future sales or perceived potential sales of our ADSs in the public market could cause the price of our ADSs to decline.
Sales of substantial amounts of our ADSs in the public market, or the perception that these sales could occur, could adversely affect
the market price of our ADSs and could materially impair our ability to raise capital through equity offerings in the future. Certain
holders of our ordinary shares may cause us to register the sale of their shares under the Securities Act. Registration of these shares under
the Securities Act would result in ADSs representing these shares becoming freely tradable without restriction under the Securities Act
immediately upon the effectiveness of the registration. Sales of these registered shares in the form of ADSs in the public market, or sales
of securities held by our significant shareholders or any other shareholder or the availability of these securities for future sale could cause
the price of our ADSs to decline.
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The voting rights of holders of ADSs are limited by the terms of the deposit agreement, and you may not be able to exercise the same
rights as our shareholders.
Holders of ADSs do not have the same rights as our shareholders. As a holder of our ADSs, you will not have any direct right to
attend general meetings of our shareholders or to cast any votes at such meetings. As an ADS holder, you will only be able to exercise
the voting rights carried by the underlying ordinary shares indirectly by giving voting instructions to the depositary in accordance with
the provisions of the deposit agreement. Under the deposit agreement, you may vote only by giving voting instructions to the depositary.
Upon receipt of your voting instructions, the depositary will try, as far as is practicable, to vote the ordinary shares underlying your ADSs
in accordance with your instructions. If we ask for your instructions, then upon receipt of your voting instructions, the depositary will try
to vote the underlying ordinary shares in accordance with these instructions. If we do not instruct the depositary to ask for your
instructions, the depositary may still vote in accordance with instructions you give, but it is not required to do so. You will not be able to
directly exercise your right to vote with respect to the underlying ordinary shares unless you withdraw the shares, and become the
registered holder of such shares prior to the record date for the general meeting. When a general meeting is convened, you may not
receive sufficient advance notice of the meeting to withdraw the shares underlying your ADSs and become the registered holder of such
shares to allow you to attend the general meeting and to vote directly with respect to any specific matter or resolution to be considered
and voted upon at the general meeting. In addition, under our memorandum and articles of association, for the purposes of determining
those shareholders who are entitled to attend and vote at any general meeting, our directors may close our register of members and/or fix
in advance a record date for such meeting, and such closure of our register of members or the setting of such a record date may prevent
you from withdrawing the ordinary shares underlying your ADSs and becoming the registered holder of such shares prior to the record
date, so that you would not be able to attend the general meeting or to vote directly. If we ask for your instructions, the depositary will
notify you of the upcoming vote and will arrange to deliver our voting materials to you. We have agreed to give the depositary notice of
shareholder meetings sufficiently in advance of such meetings. Nevertheless, we cannot assure you that you will receive the voting
materials in time to ensure that you can instruct the depositary to vote the underlying ordinary shares represented by your ADSs. In
addition, the depositary and its agents are not responsible for failing to carry out voting instructions or for their manner of carrying out
your voting instructions. This means that you may not be able to exercise your right to direct how the shares underlying your ADSs are
voted, and you may have no legal remedy if the shares underlying your ADSs are not voted as you requested. In addition, in your
capacity as an ADS holder, you will not be able to call a shareholders’ meeting. Except in limited circumstances, the depositary for our
ADSs will give us a discretionary proxy to vote the ordinary shares underlying your ADSs if you do not vote at shareholders’ meetings,
which could adversely affect your interests.
Under the deposit agreement for the ADSs, if you do not vote, the depositary will give us a discretionary proxy to vote the ordinary
shares underlying your ADSs at shareholders’ meetings unless:
● we have instructed the depositary that we do not wish a discretionary proxy to be given;
● we have informed the depositary that there is substantial opposition as to a matter to be voted on at the meeting;
● a matter to be voted on at the meeting would have an adverse impact on shareholders; or
● the voting at the meeting is to be made on a show of hands.
The effect of this discretionary proxy is that you cannot prevent our ordinary shares underlying your ADSs from being voted, except
under the circumstances described above. This may make it more difficult for shareholders to influence the management of our company.
Holders of our ordinary shares are not subject to this discretionary proxy.
Your right to participate in any future rights offerings may be limited, which may cause dilution to your holdings.
We may from time to time distribute rights to our shareholders, including rights to acquire our securities. However, we cannot make
rights available to you in the United States unless we register both the rights and the securities to which the rights relate under the
Securities Act or an exemption from the registration requirements is available. Under the deposit agreement, the depositary will not make
rights available to you unless both the rights and the underlying securities to be distributed to ADS holders are either registered under the
Securities Act or exempt from registration under the Securities Act. We are under no obligation to file a registration statement with
respect to any such rights or securities or to endeavor to cause such a registration statement to be declared effective and we may not be
able to establish a necessary exemption from registration under the Securities Act. Accordingly, you may be unable to participate in our
rights offerings and may experience dilution in your holdings.
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You may not receive cash dividends if the depositary decides it is impractical to make them available to you.
The depositary will pay cash dividends on the ADSs only to the extent that we decide to distribute dividends on our ordinary shares
or other deposited securities, and we do not have any present plan to pay any cash dividends on our ordinary shares in the foreseeable
future. To the extent that there is a distribution, the depositary of our ADSs has agreed to pay to you the cash dividends or other
distributions it or the custodian receives on our ordinary shares or other deposited securities after deducting its fees and expenses
pursuant to the deposit agreement. You will receive these distributions in proportion to the number of ordinary shares your ADSs
represent. However, the depositary may, at its discretion, decide that it is inequitable or impractical to make a distribution available to
any holders of ADSs. For example, the depositary may determine that it is not practicable to distribute certain property through the mail,
or that the value of certain distributions may be less than the cost of mailing them. In these cases, the depositary may decide not to
distribute such property to you.
You may be subject to limitations on transfer of your ADSs.
Your ADSs are transferable on the books of the depositary. However, the depositary may close its transfer books at any time or from
time to time when it deems expedient in connection with the performance of its duties. The depositary may close its books from time to
time for a number of reasons, including in connection with corporate events such as a rights offering, during which time the depositary
needs to maintain an exact number of ADS holders on its books for a specified period. The depositary may also close its books in
emergencies, and on weekends and public holidays. In addition, the depositary may refuse to deliver, transfer or register transfers of
ADSs generally when our books or the books of the depositary are closed, or at any time if we or the depositary deems it advisable to do
so because of any requirement of law or of any government or governmental body, or under any provision of the deposit agreement, or
for any other reason.
ADSs holders may not be entitled to a jury trial with respect to claims arising under the deposit agreement, which could result in less
favorable outcomes to the plaintiff(s) in any such action.
The deposit agreement governing the ADSs representing our ordinary shares provides that, subject to the depositary’s right to
require a claim to be submitted to the federal or state courts in the City of New York have jurisdiction to hear and determine claims
arising under the deposit agreement and in that regard, to the fullest extent permitted by law, ADS holders waive the right to a jury trial
of any claim they may have against us or the depositary arising out of or relating to our shares, the ADSs or the deposit agreement,
including any claim under the U.S. federal securities laws. Also, we may amend or terminate the deposit agreement without your
consent. If you continue to hold your ADSs after an amendment to the deposit agreement, you agree to be bound by the deposit
agreement as amended.
If we or the depositary were to oppose a jury trial demand based on such waiver, the court would determine whether the waiver was
enforceable in the facts and circumstances of that case in accordance with applicable state and federal law, including whether a party
knowingly, intelligently and voluntarily waived the right to a jury trial. The waiver to right to a jury trial of the deposit agreement is not
intended to be deemed a waiver by any holder or beneficial owner of ADSs of our or the depositary’s compliance with the U.S. federal
securities laws and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
If you or any other holders or beneficial owners of ADSs bring a claim against us or the depositary in connection with matters
arising under the deposit agreement or the ADSs, including claims under U.S. federal securities laws, you or such other holder or
beneficial owner may not be entitled to a jury trial with respect to such claims, which may have the effect of limiting and discouraging
lawsuits against us and/or the depositary. If a lawsuit is brought against us and/or the depositary under the deposit agreement, it may be
heard only by a judge or justice of the applicable trial court, in which the trial would be conducted according to different civil procedures
and may result in different outcomes than a trial by jury would have had, including results that could be less favorable to the
plaintiff(s) in any such action.
Nevertheless, if this jury trial waiver provision is not enforced, to the extent a court action proceeds, it would proceed under the
terms of the deposit agreement with a jury trial. No condition, stipulation or provision of the deposit agreement or ADSs serves as a
waiver by any holder or beneficial owner of ADSs or by us or the depositary of compliance with any substantive provision of the U.S.
federal securities laws and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
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You may face difficulties in protecting your interests, and your ability to protect your rights through U.S. courts may be limited,
because we are incorporated under Cayman Islands law.
We are an exempted company incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands with limited liability. Our corporate affairs are
governed by our memorandum and articles of association, the Companies Act, Cap. 22 (Act 3 of 1961, as consolidated and revised) of
the Cayman Islands, which we refer to as the Companies Act, and the common law of the Cayman Islands. The rights of shareholders to
take action against our directors, actions by our minority shareholders and the fiduciary duties of our directors to us under Cayman
Islands law are to a large extent governed by the common law of the Cayman Islands. The common law of the Cayman Islands is derived
in part from comparatively limited judicial precedent in the Cayman Islands as well as from the common law of England, the decisions of
whose courts are of persuasive authority, but are not binding, on a court in the Cayman Islands. The rights of our shareholders and the
fiduciary duties of our directors under Cayman Islands law are not as clearly established as they would be under statutes or judicial
precedent in some jurisdictions in the United States. In particular, the Cayman Islands has a less developed body of securities laws than
the United States. Some U.S. states, such as Delaware, have more fully developed and judicially interpreted bodies of corporate law than
the Cayman Islands. In addition, with respect to Cayman Islands companies, plaintiffs may face special obstacles, including but not
limited to those relating to jurisdiction and standing, in attempting to assert derivative claims in state or federal courts of the United
States.
Shareholders of Cayman Islands exempted companies like us have no general rights under Cayman Islands law to inspect corporate
records (except for our memorandum and articles of association and our register of mortgages and charges) or to obtain copies of lists of
shareholders of these companies. Our directors have discretion under our articles of association to determine whether or not, and under
what conditions, our corporate records may be inspected by our shareholders, but are not obliged to make them available to our
shareholders. This may make it more difficult for you to obtain the information needed to establish any facts necessary for a shareholder
motion or to solicit proxies from other shareholders in connection with a proxy contest.
As a result of all of the above, our public shareholders may have more difficulty in protecting their interests in the face of actions
taken by management, members of the board of directors or controlling shareholders than they would as public shareholders of a
company incorporated in the United States.
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We have been advised by Harney Westwood & Riegels that although there is no statutory enforcement in the Cayman Islands of
judgments obtained in the federal or state courts of the United States (and the Cayman Islands are not a party to any treaties for the
reciprocal enforcement or recognition of such judgments), the Cayman Islands Grand Court will at common law enforce final and
conclusive in personam judgments of state and/or federal courts of the United States of America (the Foreign Court) of a debt or definite
sum of money against the Company (other than a sum of money payable in respect of taxes or other charges of a like nature, a fine or
other penalty (which may include a multiple damages judgment in an anti-trust action) or where enforcement would be contrary to public
policy). The Grand Court of the Cayman Islands will also at common law enforce final and conclusive in personam judgments of the
Foreign Court that are non-monetary against the Company, for example, declaratory judgments ruling upon the true legal owner of shares
in a Cayman Islands company. The Grand Court will exercise its discretion in the enforcement of non-money judgments by having
regard to the circumstances, such as considering whether the principles of comity apply. To be treated as final and conclusive, any
relevant judgment must be regarded as res judicata by the Foreign Court. A debt claim on a foreign judgment must be brought within six
years of the date of the judgment, and arrears of interest on a judgment debt cannot be recovered after six years from the date on which
the interest was due. The Cayman Islands courts are unlikely to enforce a judgment obtained from the Foreign Court under civil liability
provisions of U.S. federal securities law if such a judgment is found by the courts of the Cayman Islands to give rise to obligations to
make payments that are penal or punitive in nature. Such a determination has not yet been made by the Grand Court of the Cayman
Islands. A Cayman Islands court may stay enforcement proceedings if concurrent proceedings are being brought elsewhere. A judgment
entered in default of appearance by a defendant who has had notice of the Foreign Court’s intention to proceed may be final and
conclusive notwithstanding that the Foreign Court has power to set aside its own judgment and despite the fact that it may be subject to
an appeal the time-limit for which has not yet expired. The Grand Court may safeguard the defendant’s rights by granting a stay of
execution pending any such appeal and may also grant interim injunctive relief as appropriate for the purpose of enforcement.
Our memorandum and articles of association contains anti-takeover provisions that could discourage a third party from acquiring us
and adversely affect the rights of holders of our ordinary shares and the ADSs.
Our memorandum and articles of association contains provisions to limit the ability of others to acquire control of our company or
cause us to engage in change of control transactions. These provisions could have the effect of depriving our shareholders of an
opportunity to sell their shares at a premium over prevailing market prices by discouraging third parties from seeking to obtain control of
our company in a tender offer or similar transaction. Our board of directors has the authority to issue preferred shares in one or more
series and to fix their designations, powers, preferences, privileges, and relative participating, optional or special rights and the
qualifications, limitations or restrictions, including dividend rights, conversion rights, voting rights, terms of redemption and liquidation
preferences, any or all of which may be greater than the rights associated with our ordinary shares, in the form of ADS or otherwise.
Preferred shares could be issued with terms calculated to delay or prevent a change in control of our company or make removal of
management more difficult. If our board of directors decides to issue preferred shares, the price of our ADSs may fall and the voting and
other rights of the holders of our ordinary shares and ADSs may be materially and adversely affected.
We are a foreign private issuer within the meaning of the rules under the Exchange Act, and as such we are exempt from certain
provisions applicable to U.S. domestic public companies.
Because we qualify as a foreign private issuer under the Exchange Act, we are exempt from certain provisions of the securities
rules and regulations in the United States that are applicable to U.S. domestic issuers, including:
● the rules under the Exchange Act requiring the filing with the SEC of quarterly reports on Form 10-Q or current reports on
Form 8-K;
● the sections of the Exchange Act regulating the solicitation of proxies, consents, or authorizations in respect of a security
registered under the Exchange Act;
● the sections of the Exchange Act requiring insiders to file public reports of their stock ownership and trading activities and
liability for insiders who profit from trades made in a short period of time; and
● the selective disclosure rules by issuers of material nonpublic information under Regulation FD promulgated by SEC.
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We are required to file an annual report on Form 20-F within four months of the end of each fiscal year. In addition, we intend to
publish our mid-year results as press releases, distributed pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Nasdaq Stock Market. Press
releases relating to financial results and material events will also be furnished to the SEC on Form 6-K. However, the information we are
required to file with or furnish to the SEC will be less extensive and less timely compared to that required to be filed with the SEC by
U.S. domestic issuers. As a result, you may not be afforded the same protections or information that would be made available to you
were you investing in a U.S. domestic issuer. However, if we determine that we no longer meet the definition of a foreign private issuer
in the future, we would become subject to the reporting requirements for a domestic company.
As an exempted company incorporated in the Cayman Islands, we are permitted to adopt certain home country practices in relation to
corporate governance matters that differ significantly from the Nasdaq Stock Market’s corporate governance requirements; these
practices may afford less protection to shareholders than they would enjoy if we complied fully with the Nasdaq Stock Market’s
corporate governance requirements.
As a Cayman Islands company listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, we are subject to the Nasdaq Stock Market’s corporate
governance requirements. However, the Nasdaq Stock Market rules permit a foreign private issuer like us to follow the corporate
governance practices of its home country. Certain corporate governance practices in the Cayman Islands, which is our home country, may
differ significantly from the Nasdaq Stock Market’s corporate governance requirements. For example, neither the Companies Act nor our
memorandum and articles of association requires a majority of our directors to be independent and we could include non-independent
directors as members of our compensation committee and nominating committee, and our independent directors would not necessarily
hold regularly scheduled meetings at which only independent directors are present. Additionally, our home country practices provide that
shareholder approval may not be required when a plan or other equity compensation arrangement is established or materially amended
and that we are not required to hold an annual general meeting of shareholders no later than one year after the end of its fiscal year-end.
As we have chosen, or may from time to time to choose, to follow home country practice exemptions with respect to certain corporate
matters, such as the ones mentioned above, our shareholders may be afforded less protection than they otherwise would under the Nasdaq
Stock Market’s corporate governance requirements applicable to U.S. domestic issuers. See also “Item 16G. Corporate Governance.”
We believe that we were a passive foreign investment company for U.S. federal income tax purposes for the taxable year ended
December 31, 2023, which could subject U.S. investors in our ADSs or ordinary shares to significant adverse U.S. federal income tax
consequences.
We will be classified as a passive foreign investment company, or PFIC, for any taxable year if either (i) 75% or more of our gross
income for such year consists of certain types of “passive” income or (ii) 50% or more of the value of our assets (generally determined
on the basis of quarterly average) during such year produce or are held for the production of passive income. Based upon the nature and
composition of our assets (in particular, the retention of substantial amounts of cash and investments), and the market price of our ADSs,
we believe that we were a PFIC for the taxable year ended December 31, 2023 and we will likely be a PFIC for our current taxable year
unless the market price of our ADSs significantly increases and/or we invest a substantial amount of the cash and other passive assets we
hold in assets that produce or are held for the production of active income.
If we are a PFIC in any taxable year, a U.S. Holder (as defined in “Item 10. Additional Information—E. Taxation—United States
Federal Income Tax Considerations”) will generally be subject to reporting requirements and may incur significantly increased U.S.
federal income tax on gain recognized on the sale or other disposition of the ADSs or ordinary shares and on the receipt of distributions
on the ADSs or ordinary shares to the extent such gain or distribution is treated as an “excess distribution” under the U.S. federal income
tax rules and such U.S. Holder may be subject to burdensome reporting requirements. Further, if we are a PFIC for any year during
which a U.S. Holder holds our ADSs or ordinary shares, we generally will continue to be treated as a PFIC for all succeeding years
during which such U.S. Holder holds our ADSs or ordinary shares, unless we were to cease to be a PFIC and the U.S. Holder were to
make a “deemed sale” election with respect to the ADSs or ordinary shares. For more information see “Item 10. Additional Information
—E. Taxation—United States Federal Income Tax Considerations—Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations” and “Item 10.
Additional Information—E. Taxation—United States Federal Income Tax Considerations—Passive Foreign Investment Company
Rules.”
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ITEM 4.
INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
A. History and Development of the Company
We commenced our operations in November 2014, when our predecessor Third Venture Biopharma (Nanjing) Co., Ltd was
established.
I-Mab was established in June 2016 under the laws of the Cayman Islands as our offshore holding company. In July 2016, I-Mab
established I-Mab Biopharma Hong Kong Limited, or I-Mab Hong Kong, as its intermediary holding company. In August 2016, I-Mab
Hong Kong established a wholly-owned PRC subsidiary, I-Mab Biopharma Co., Ltd., or I-Mab Shanghai. In September 2016, the assets
and operations of Third Venture Biopharma (Nanjing) Co., Ltd were consolidated into I-Mab Shanghai.
In July 2017, I-Mab Hong Kong acquired a controlling interest in I-Mab Bio-tech (Tianjin) Co., Ltd., or I-Mab Tianjin, formerly
known as Tasgen Bio-tech (Tianjin) Co., Ltd., a company focused on the chemistry, manufacturing and controls of biologics in China.
Through an internal corporate restructuring, I-Mab Tianjin became the 100% owner of I-Mab Shanghai in September 2017 and I-Mab
Hong Kong acquired the remaining interest in I-Mab Tianjin in May 2018, becoming the 100% owner of I-Mab Tianjin.
In February 2018, I-Mab Hong Kong established in Maryland, United States, a wholly-owned subsidiary I-Mab Biopharma US
Limited, or I-Mab US, as the hub for the discovery and development of the drug candidates in our Global portfolio.
On January 17, 2020, our ADSs commenced trading on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “IMAB.”
In 2020, we invested in a comprehensive biologics manufacturing facility in Hangzhou, China as part of our strategic plan to become
a specialty biopharma company. The construction of this facility commenced in April 2021. This facility established a pilot capacity of
two production lines. The project was financed by a combination of internal and external sources. In September 2020, a group of
domestic investors in China invested a total of US$120 million (in RMB equivalent) in cash. Upon the closing of this project, we,
through our wholly-owned subsidiary and parties acting in concert, were a majority shareholder of I-Mab Biopharma (Hangzhou) Co.,
Ltd., or I-Mab Hangzhou, the entity holding the facility in Hangzhou. On July 16, 2022, I-Mab Hangzhou entered into a definitive
financing agreement with a group of domestic investors in China to raise approximately US$46 million (in RMB equivalent). Upon the
closing of the financing, we, through our wholly-owned subsidiary, became the largest shareholder of I-Mab Hangzhou. Upon the
occurrence of certain triggering events as specified in the shareholders agreement among I-Mab Hangzhou, we, through our wholly-
owned subsidiary, and other domestic investors, including but not limited to, I-Mab Hangzhou’s failure to accomplish certain public
offering condition, may be obligated to repurchase the equity held by other domestic investors in cash or in our securities in the period
beyond 12 months. On February 6, 2024, in connection with the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, we
transferred the equity interests we held, through our wholly-owned subsidiary, in I-Mab Hangzhou to certain participating shareholders
of I-Mab Hangzhou in exchange for extinguishment of the existing repurchase obligations owed by I-Mab Hong Kong to those
shareholders in the amount of approximately US$183 million. However, the non-participating shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou have
initiated legal proceedings against I-Mab Hong Kong and our company in connection with the aforementioned transaction. See “Item 8.
Financial Information—A. Consolidated Statements of Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.” The total amount of potential
repurchase obligations owed to the non-participating shareholders upon the closing of the transaction is expected to range from US$30
million to US$35 million. Concurrently with the divestiture, we also participated in the Series C fundraising of I-Mab Hangzhou. See
Note 8 and Note 22 to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report for additional information of our
investment in I-Mab Hangzhou.
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In September 2020, we, through I-Mab Shanghai and I-Mab US, entered into a broad global collaboration with AbbVie Ireland
Unlimited Company, or AbbVie, a leading global, research-based biopharmaceutical company. Pursuant to this collaboration, we grant
AbbVie a global license, excluding mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, to develop and commercialize lemzoparlimab. In August
2022, we and AbbVie Global Enterprises Ltd., the assignee of AbbVie, entered into an amendment to the original collaboration
agreement. This amended agreement is referred as the AbbVie Collaboration Agreement. Pursuant to the AbbVie Collaboration
Agreement, the parties collaborated on the global development of anti-CD47 antibody therapy, and we regained the exclusive right to
develop and commercialize all licensed products under the amended collaboration agreement in Greater China. AbbVie discontinued the
global Phase 1b study of lemzoparlimab combination therapy with azacitidine and venetoclax, in patients with myelodysplastic
syndromes and acute myeloid leukemia, and a Phase 1b study of lemzoparlimab in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma.
These discontinuations were not related to any specific or unexpected safety concerns. On September 21, 2023, we received a notice
from AbbVie, terminating the AbbVie Collaboration Agreement in its entirety. Such termination by AbbVie, which took effect on
November 20, 2023, is based on the previous program discontinuation and AbbVie’s strategic decision and did not and will not affect the
upfront and milestone payments of US$200 million that we have received from AbbVie. Upon the termination, we regained the full
global rights to develop and commercialize certain CD47 compounds and products under the AbbVie Collaboration Agreement,
including lemzoparlimab. As of the date of this annual report, AbbVie has paid us an upfront payment of US$180 million and milestone
payment of US$20 million. On February 6, 2024, we entered into definitive agreements with I-Mab Hangzhou and a group of China-
based investors to divest the Greater China assets and business operations. Upon the completion of such divestiture, we own the ex-
Greater China rights to develop and commercialize certain CD47 compounds and products, including lemzoparlimab.
In October 2023, we divested the 51% equity interest in Zhejiang Tianli Pharmaceutical Sales Co., Ltd. previously held by I-Mab
Biopharma Co., Ltd.
On February 6, 2024, we entered into definitive agreements with I-Mab Hangzhou and a group of China-based investors to divest
the Greater China assets and business operations. Pursuant to the definitive agreements, we transferred 100% of the outstanding equity
interest in I-Mab Biopharma Co., Ltd., or I-Mab Shanghai, that operates our business in China, on a cash-free and debt-free basis, to I-
Mab Hangzhou for an aggregate consideration of the RMB equivalent of up to US$80 million, contingent on I-Mab Hangzhou’s
achievement of certain future regulatory and sales-based milestone events. We also retain a right of first negotiation outside of Greater
China related to three future investigational new drug candidates. In addition, as credit enhancement measures for payment of the
consideration, I-Mab Hangzhou will secure a bank facility or a loan with the amount no less than US$20 million. In connection with the
divestiture, we have transferred the equity interests we held through our wholly-owned subsidiary in I-Mab Hangzhou to certain
participating shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou in exchange for extinguishment of the existing repurchase obligations owed by I-Mab
Hong Kong to those shareholders in the amount of approximately US$183 million. However, the non-participating shareholders of I-Mab
Hangzhou have initiated legal proceedings against I-Mab Hong Kong and our company in connection with the aforementioned
transaction. The total amount of potential repurchase obligations owed to the non-participating shareholders upon the closing of the
transaction is expected to range from US$30 million to US$35 million. In light of the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business
operations, we are no longer considering listing our shares in Shanghai or Hong Kong as previously announced in 2021.
Our principal executive offices are located at 2440 Research Boulevard, Suite 400, Rockville, MD 20850, the United States. Our
telephone number at this address is (240) 745-6330.
Our registered office in the Cayman Islands is located at Vistra (Cayman) Limited, P.O. Box 31119 Grand Pavilion, Hibiscus Way,
802 West Bay Road, Grand Cayman, KY1-1205, Cayman Islands.
All information filed with the SEC can be obtained over the internet at SEC’s website at https://www.sec.gov. You can also find
information on our website ir.i-mabbiopharma.com. The information contained on our website is not a part of this annual report.
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B. Business Overview
Executive Summary
In 2023, we faced a series of risks, including macroeconomic and geopolitical headwinds, which prompted us to re-position our
overall business in response to these challenges, while focusing on re-prioritizing the pipeline development to deliver on key clinical
milestones. The execution of these strategies resulted in a streamlined workforce and development activities focusing on key clinical
stage pipeline assets. On February 6, 2024, we entered into definitive agreements with I-Mab Hangzhou and a group of China-based
investors to divest the Greater China assets and business operations. Pursuant to the definitive agreements, we have transferred 100% of
the outstanding equity interest in I-Mab Biopharma Co., Ltd. that operates our business in China, on a cash-free and debt-free basis, to I-
Mab Hangzhou for an aggregate consideration of the RMB equivalent of up to US$80 million, contingent on I-Mab Hangzhou’s
achievement of certain future regulatory and sales-based milestone events. Following the completion of the divestiture, we do not own
any rights to the Greater China portfolio. Collectively, we are now in a solid position to continue to deliver the expected key catalysts and
value through clinical stage pipeline assets and global partnerships with a more prudent expenditure strategy to support our key business
operations.
More specifically, we made significant progress in our pipeline development by focusing on our global oncology clinical assets:
uliledlimab, givastomig (TJ-CD4B) and ragistomig (TJ-L14B). Substantial achievements in 2023 included: (1) completed enrollment of
over 200 patients to ongoing Phase 2 study of uliledlimab in combination with toripalimab (a PD-1 inhibitor); (2) presentation of
uliledlimab Phase 2 data at American Society of Clinical Oncology for patients with newly diagnosed, metastatic NSCLC achieving a
31% objective response rate with the chemotherapy-free regimen and a 63% objective response rate amongst patients with PD-L1 and
CD73 high expressing tumors; (3) presentation of givastomig monotherapy dose escalation data at European Society of Medical
Oncology reporting efficacy and a potentially differentiated safety profile without severe vomiting; (4) completed enrollment of the
planned expansion cohort of givastomig monotherapy for patients with previously treated Claudin18.2 expressing gastric or esophageal
cancer and amended the study to add patient cohorts with newly diagnosed Claudin18.2 expressing gastric or esophageal cancer in
combination with chemotherapy and an immune checkpoint inhibitor to begin enrollment in the first half of 2024; and (5) reported signs
of monotherapy efficacy with ragistomig amongst patients with previously treated solid tumors, including patients previously treated
with immune checkpoint inhibitors with plans for academic presentation in the first half of 2024.
Our Drug Pipeline
Uliledlimab (TJD5): A Highly Differentiated CD73 Antibody for Solid Tumors
Summary
Uliledlimab is a CD73 neutralizing antibody with potential to block nearly 100% enzymatic activity. CD73 is a homodimeric
enzyme widely expressed in multiple tumors and plays a critical role in the generation of adenosine, contributing to an immuno-
suppressive tumor microenvironment. The key differentiation of uliledlimab, when compared to some of the other clinical-stage CD73
antibodies, is related to its novel epitope, which works through a unique intra-dimer binding mode, resulting in complete inhibition of the
enzymatic activity and avoiding the aberrant pharmacological property known as the “hook effect.” In addition, uliledlimab has a non-
competitive inhibitory effect that is not blunted by high levels of CD73 enzyme substrates, which may be seen with small-molecule
competitive blockers. Preclinical studies have shown that uliledlimab can completely reverse the adenosine-mediated suppression of T
cells in vitro. When combined with a PD-(L)1 antibody in vivo, uliledlimab exhibited a superior and synergistic inhibitory effect on
tumor growth compared to PD-(L)1 monotherapy.
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In the U.S., we have completed the initial assessment of a Phase 1 clinical study where uliledlimab was evaluated as a monotherapy
lead-in and followed by combining with atezolizumab (Tecentriq®) in patients with solid tumors. Topline results from this study showed
that uliledlimab is safe and well-tolerated across all the dose cohorts evaluated. The data demonstrated a favorable linear
pharmacokinetic and steep pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationship with complete receptor occupancy as expected based upon
the normal dose-response property of uliledlimab without the hook effect. Furthermore, encouraging clinical efficacy signals from this
study were observed in non-small cell lung cancer and ovarian cancer patients with higher CD73 and PD-L1 co-expression in the tumor,
indicating a potential correlation between the clinical activity of uliledlimab and tumor CD73 expression as a potential predictive
biomarker that warrants further investigation.
Supported by the results of the Phase 1 study, our Phase 2 studies further evaluated the efficacy and safety of uliledlimab in
combination with checkpoint inhibitors in Stage IV NSCLC and other select tumor types. The Phase 2 cohort data of uliledlimab in
combination with toripalimab (TUOYI®), a programmed cell death protein (PD-1) inhibitor, in patients with Stage IV NSCLC were
presented in June 2023 at the 2023 ASCO annual meeting. Results from an ongoing Phase 2 study of uliledlimab in combination with
toripalimab showed a favorable safety profile and an encouraging objective response rate of 31% (21/67) in the overall population
regardless of CD73 and programmed cell death ligand (PD-L1) expression. In this study, without concomitant chemotherapy, in patients
whose tumors expressed higher levels of CD73 and had a PD-L1 tumor proportion score of >1%, the observed complete response rate
was 63% (10/16).
Competitive Landscape
The most advanced CD73 antibody currently
(MEDI-9447) sponsored by
Medimmune/AstraZeneca, which has initiated a Phase 3, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, randomized study of durvalumab plus
oleclumab in patients with locally advanced (Stage III), unresectable NSCLC who have not progressed following definitive, platinum-
based concurrent chemoradiation therapy. Data from the COAST Phase 2 trial and NeoCOAST Phase 2 trials showed that the addition of
oleclumab to durvalumab enhanced anti-tumor immune responses in patients with NSCLC. AK119 (from AkesoBio) was in Phase 1
clinical development for solid tumors. Arcus Biosciences had also reported encouraging results in their Phase 1b/2 trial of quemliclustat,
a small molecule CD73 inhibitor, in combination with zimberelimab plus chemotherapy in patients with pancreatic cancer.
in clinical development
is oleclumab
Molecular Differentiation of Uliledlimab
Extracellular AMP can be generated from ATP, cyclic AMP, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide through separate biochemical
pathways, all of which converge to CD73 as a rate-limiting enzyme to generate adenosine. Thus, the CD73 antibody is expected to block
adenosine generation more completely than other upstream targets in the adenosine pathway. The key advantages of uliledlimab when
compared with other CD73 antibodies or small molecule inhibitors can be summarized as follows: (1) uliledlimab exhibits a typical dose-
response curve without the “hook effect” to achieve the complete inhibition of both soluble and surface-bound CD73; and (2) uliledlimab
has a non-competitive inhibitory effect that is not blunted by high levels of CD73 enzyme substrates, which may occur with small-
molecule competitive blockers. These pharmacological properties may translate into efficient target inhibition in tumors and superior
anti-tumor activity, especially in an adenosine-rich micro-environment.
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Biochemically, uliledlimab displayed complete inhibition of soluble CD73 enzymatic activity (IC50 = 0.22 n M) without the “hook
effect” in contrast to the comparator molecules, which at higher concentrations caused a paradoxical rebound of enzymatic activity
presumably due to its inter-dimer binding mode. The recent structural data revealed by cryo-EM showed that uliledlimab binds to a
unique epitope located at the C-terminus of CD73 dimer distinct from other CD73 antibodies, including oleclumab, all of which bind to
the N-terminus of CD73. With this unique epitope, uliledlimab adopts a differentiated intra-dimer binding mode to prevent the
conformational change of CD73 from inactive to the active form, resulting in the complete inhibition of CD73 enzymatic activity without
causing a “hook effect.”
Figure: Inhibition of soluble CD73 enzymatic activity and the binding epitope of CD73 antibodies.
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Immunologically, AMP inhibited interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) production by CD4 or CD8 T cells through adenosine generation,
mimicking the suppressive tumor micro-environment where AMP is abundantly produced. However, this suppression is reversed by
uliledlimab in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, in an experimental system where CD73 high human ovarian cell line SK-
OV-3 and human T cells were co-cultured, the addition of uliledlimab restored T cell activity as measured by IFN-γ production in a
concentration-dependent manner. In addition to the reversal of AMP-mediated T cell suppression, uliledlimab treatment activates human
B cells, as evidenced by the up-regulation of activation markers CD69 and CD83, as well as antigen presentation markers CD86 and
HLA-DR. Compared with T cells, the effects of uliledlimab on B cells were adenosine independent.
Consistent with the in vitro results, in vivo monotherapy of uliledlimab dose-dependently inhibited in situ tumor-derived CD73
activity, leading to the anti-tumor effect in a mouse xenograft model bearing A375 melanoma cells. To examine whether uliledlimab
could enhance the anti-tumor activity of PD-1 or PD-L1 antibodies, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of uliledlimab in combination
with a PD-1 antibody in the MC38 model using CD73 humanized mouse and PD-L1 antibody in the A375 xenograft model, respectively.
The combination treatments resulted in more potent inhibition of tumor growth than monotherapy of PD-(L)1 antibody or uliledlimab.
Figure: Inhibition of tumor growth and in situ CD73 activity by uliledlimab alone or in combination with a PD-1 or PD-L1 antibody.
Summary of Clinical Results
Phase 1 dose-escalation study in combination with atezolizumab
Data from the U.S. Phase 1 dose-escalation study of uliledlimab in combination with atezolizumab, which were presented at the
2021 ASCO annual meeting, showed that uliledlimab is safe and well-tolerated with no dose-limiting toxicity across all the dose cohorts
in combination with atezolizumab. All treatment-related adverse events were either Grade 1 or Grade 2. Uliledlimab demonstrated a
linear pharmacokinetic profile and reached full receptor occupancy on B cells at the middle and high dose levels with no “hook effect,”
confirming a normal pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationship and sigmoid dose-activity response.
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Patients who participated in the study had advanced cancers and had exhausted other cancer therapies. Among the 13 efficacy-
evaluable patients dosed at 10 mg/kg or higher, three patients had complete or partial responses (complete response rate = 23%) and three
had stable disease (disease control rate = 46%). The range of time on treatment for the six patients with a response and stable disease was
from 187 to 485 days. The clinical activity was observed in both PD-(L)1 treatment naïve and refractory cancer patients, including one
partial response patient who previously failed nivolumab. All three responders were identified to exhibit higher co-expression of tumor
CD73 and PD-L1 as compared to non-responders, indicating a correlation between higher CD73 expression and clinical activity of
uliledlimab and a potential role of CD73 as a predictive biomarker to warrant further investigation.
Figure: Treatment duration for the combination therapy of uliledlimab and atezolizumab. Baseline expression of PD-L1 and CD73 in
the tumor as measured by immunohistochemistry in responders (n=3) and non-responders (n=10).
Phase 2 clinical study of uliledlimab in combination with PD-1 antibody (toripalimab) in advanced NSCLC
In June 2023, we presented the encouraging clinical results of Phase 1b/2 study (NCT04322006) evaluating uliledlimab in
combination with toripalimab (TUOYI®) in patients with NSCLC at the 2023 ASCO annual meeting. The data are part of a dose
expansion portion of a Phase 1b/2 trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of the combination therapy and investigating the potential
correlation between tumor CD73 expression and clinical response for patients with advanced cancer.
As of April 14, 2023, 70 patients had been enrolled in the Phase 1b/2 cohort of uliledlimab and PD-1 combination therapy for
patients with Stage IV NSCLC who were ineligible for chemotherapy. Results from an ongoing Phase 2 study of uliledlimab in
combination with toripalimab, a PD-1 inhibitor, showed a favorable safety profile and an encouraging objective response rate of 31%
(21/67) in the overall population regardless of CD73 and PD-L1 expression. In this study, without concomitant chemotherapy, in patients
whose tumors expressed higher levels of CD73 and had a PD-L1 tumor proportion score of >1%, the observed complete response rate
was 63% (10/16).
Clinical Development Plan
Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, we are now focused on advancing innovative therapies
involving uliledlimab outside Greater China. In the U.S., we plan to submit an IND for uliledlimab in combination with chemotherapy
and checkpoint inhibitors in newly diagnosed patients with advanced NSCLC in the first half of 2024.
Givastomig (TJ-CD4B): A Novel, Tumor-Dependent T Cell Engager for Gastric and Other Cancers
Summary
Givastomig is a bi-specific antibody targeting Claudin18.2 (CLDN18.2), a tumor antigen preferentially expressed in gastric,
esophageal, and pancreatic cancers, and then bind to 4-1BB, a co-stimulatory molecule on T cells, on cells adjacent to CLDN18.2
positive cells. CLDN18.2 is a tight junction molecule normally restricted to epithelial cells of the gastric mucosa, but becomes widely
expressed in select tumors, such as gastric, esophageal, and pancreatic cancers, making it a highly attractive tumor target.
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In collaboration with ABL Bio, we developed givastomig, also known as ABL111, which provides two key advantages over current
CLDN18.2 antibodies and 4-1BB agonistic antibodies. Firstly, givastomig, also known as TJ033721, can bind to tumor cells even with
low levels of CLDN18.2 expression, making it potentially for a broader patient population with various expression levels of CLDN18.2.
Secondly, only upon tumor cell engagement by givastomig are T cells stimulated by the 4-1BB antibody moiety, making the 4-1BB
antibody arm only active at the tumor site. This localized T cell activation is conditional upon CLDN18.2 engagement and is expected to
exert strong anti-tumor activity while minimizing systemic side effects such as liver toxicity seen with 4-1BB agents in previous clinical
studies. Givastomig appears to effectively maintain a strong tumor binding property and anti-tumor activity attributable to a synergistic
effect of both CLDN18.2 antibody and 4-1BB antibody while avoiding or minimizing liver toxicity and systemic immunotoxicity
commonly seen with 4-1BB antibodies as a drug class.
In November 2021, we and ABL Bio jointly announced the pharmacodynamic data and safety of givastomig/ABL111 in animal
models and cell cultures at the 2021 SITC annual meeting. The data are summarized as below: (1) Potent anti-tumor activity was
observed with the proliferation of immune cells within the tumor microenvironment as well as an increase in memory T cells in the
peripheral blood, suggesting long-term immunity against the tumor; (2) Givastomig was well tolerated in non-human primates and did
not induce a systemic immune response or liver toxicity up to levels of 100 mg/kg; and (3) Activation of immune pathways by
givastomig was demonstrated by a pro-inflammatory profile and increased gamma interferon-regulated gene expression in primary
human CD8+ T cells co-cultured with CLDN18.2 expressing cells. In March 2022, we announced that the U.S. FDA granted givastomig
Orphan Drug Designation for the treatment of gastric cancer, including gastroesophageal junction carcinoma.
In October 2023, we presented the topline Phase 1 data of givastomig with promising early efficacy signals, including patients with
low levels of CLDN18.2 tumor expression, at the ESMO annual meeting. Phase 1 dose escalation has reached the highest planned dose
level. Most treatment-related adverse events were low-grade. In this study, encouraging findings of monotherapy efficacy were observed,
including in tumors with lower levels of CLDN18.2 expression, in patients with previously treated cancer that has relapsed or progressed
after prior standard treatments.
Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, we no longer own the rights to develop and
commercialize givastomig in Greater China. We expect to continue to sponsor a Phase 1 study of givastomig in combination with
chemotherapy and a PD-1 inhibitor in patients with treatment-naïve gastric, gastro-esophageal junction and esophageal cancer at both the
U.S. and China investigational sites. In parallel, we are developing a CLDN18.2 immunohistochemistry assay for patient selection,
which we expect to use in our future clinical studies. Furthermore, we are in the process of exploring potential global partnership
opportunities for givastomig.
Therapeutic Indications
Gastric cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Treatment for advanced gastric, gastro-esophageal
junction, or esophageal adenocarcinoma often involves a combination of chemotherapy and now, immune therapies. However, the
clinical benefit remains modest with the current therapies. Therefore, there is a significant unmet medical need as most patients with
metastatic cancer will die as a result of the cancer. While CLDN18.2 is a recently recognized tumor marker, clinical data indicated that
over 70% of GC patients in Asia and Europe have tumors expressing CLDN18.2, although the levels of CLDN18.2 expression may be
lower for many patients than what earlier generations of CLDN18.2 targeting therapies were designed to treat.
Potential Advantages of Givastomig
Givastomig is a novel bi-specific antibody, with one arm targeting CLDN18.2 and the other targeting 4-1BB through conditional or
local activation. The key differentiation of givastomig is two-fold. Firstly, it binds to tumors with a wide range of CLDN18.2 expression
levels, including lower expression, as demonstrated in pre-clinical animal models. Secondly, the 4-1BB arm of givastomig is designed to
function upon local tumor engagement as a mechanism of conditional activation. This feature makes givastomig a unique T cell activator
only localized at the tumor site without relevant systemic toxicities, e.g. liver toxicity and systemic cytokine release, that are typically
associated with 4-1BB. In addition, givastomig exhibits less gastrointestinal toxicity than what is commonly observed for other
CLDN18.2 targeted therapeutics.
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Moreover, unlike previous generations of 4-1BB agonist antibodies with hepatotoxicity issues, givastomig binds to a distinct 4-1BB
epitope that only triggers 4-1BB signaling upon CLDN18.2 target engagement but not Fc receptor interaction. This unique tumor-
associated antigen-dependent property is expected to drastically reduce peripheral T cell activation and hepatic and systemic
immunotoxicity without compromising anti-tumor activity. If proven in the clinic, these properties enable givastomig to be highly
differentiated from other CLDN18.2-based compounds.
Figure: Schematic diagram of the overall structure of givastomig and its components. The 4-1BB agonistic antibody is a single-chain Fv
connected to the C-terminus of a disabled Fc in a full anti-CLDNJ8.2 antibody via a flexible linker. The design allows the
molecule to fit in the immune synapse (left) and trans-activate T cells only upon tumor cell binding.
Molecular Differentiation of Givastomig
Broad and potent binding to CLDN18.2 positive cells by givastomig. As shown in the figure below, givastomig consistently
exhibited stronger binding than the reference antibody zolbetuximab in cells with high, moderate, and even low levels of CLDN18.2.
Figure: More potent binding by givastomig than zolbetuximab to cells expressing various levels of CLDN18.2.
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CLDN18.2-dependent 4-1BB Activation and T Cell Activity by givastomig. The ability of givastomig to ligate 4-1BB and activate
downstream signaling was tested in a co-culture of CLDN18.2-positive or negative target cells with T cells as effectors. The results in the
figure show that givastomig elicited by far the strongest 4-1BB-mediated NF-kB reporter activity, only in the presence of CLDN18.2+
cells but not CLDN18.2-cells. In contrast, urelumab (first generation 4-1BB antibody) induced NF-kB reporter activity regardless of
target cell CLDN18.2 expression. In another experiment where human PBMCs were co-cultured with gastric cancer cells derived from
patient biopsies, givastomig was found to increase IL-2 production in a dose-dependent and CLDN18.2 expression-dependent manner.
Figure: Dose-dependent CLDN18.2-restricted T cell activity by givastomig but not urelumab in T cell and target cell co-culture system.
Left, co-culture scheme; Middle, NF-kB reporter activity; Right, IL-2 production.
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Superior in vivo Anti-tumor Efficacy of Givastomig. In mice grafted with tumor cells expressing human CLDN18.2, givastomig
treatment twice a week for three weeks completely suppressed tumor cell growth in six out of seven mice, delivering far better efficacy
than equimolar doses of single agent drugs targeting CLDN18.2 or 4-1BB alone or in combination. Remarkably, when these tumor-free
mice were re-challenged with a second tumor implant a month after drug cessation, they remained totally protected from tumor
implantation, indicating that givastomig produced a durable anti-tumor response. Immune cell analysis revealed a significant increase in
CD45+ and CD8+ T cells that infiltrated the tumor tissue after givastomig treatment, but there were no changes in the periphery,
suggesting that givastomig could turn a cold tumor into a hot tumor, and the effect was localized. The anti-tumor efficacy of givastomig
was dose-dependent, with a minimal efficacious dose of 0.4 mg/kg.
Figure: Potent in vivo anti-tumor activity of givastomig in a mouse tumor model. Mice transgenic for humanized 4-1BB were grafted
with MC38 cells expressing human CLDN18.2. Mice were treated with IgG or zolbetuximab as control, or with parental
CLDN18.2 mAb, parental 4-1BB mAb, or both, and with givastomig (4 mg/kg) twice a week for 3 weeks. All mAbs were dosed at
the molar equivalent of 3 mg/kg.
Preclinical Pharmacodynamics and Safety. The pharmacodynamic data and safety of givastomig in animal models and cell cultures
were jointly announced by I-Mab and ABL Bio, Inc. at the 2021 SITC annual meeting. Analysis of the data found: (1) Potent anti-tumor
activity was observed with the proliferation of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment as well as an increase in memory T cells in
the peripheral blood, suggesting long-term immunity against the tumor; (2) Givastomig was well tolerated in non-human primates and
did not induce a systemic immune response or liver toxicity up to levels of 100mg/kg; and (3) Activation of immune pathways by
givastomig/ABL111 was demonstrated by a pro-inflammatory profile and increased gamma interferon-regulated gene expression in
primary human CD8+ T cells co-cultured with CLDN18.2 expressing cells. In the four-week good laboratory practice monkey toxicity
study, givastomig was well tolerated with no major findings. There was no liver toxicity noted, nor was there evidence of systemic
immune activation. There were mild stomach changes that were considered on-target but non-adverse and were reversible. NOAEL was
determined to be 100 mg/kg with a sufficient therapeutic window.
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Summary of Clinical Results
Phase 1 clinical trial of givastomig in patients with advanced or metastatic solid tumors:
The dose escalation part of the study reached 15 mg/kg without encountering dose limiting toxicity. By the end of 2022, eight dose
cohorts had been completed, with 38 subjects dosed. Givastomig was well tolerated, most of the treatment-related adverse events were
grade 1 or 2 and no dose limiting toxicity was reported. There is a dose-dependent increase of drug exposure and soluble 4-1BB in
serum, suggestive of a favorable pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic profile with durable T cell activation and the potential to test a
longer dosing interval in the future. Partial response and stable disease signals of givastomig monotherapy efficacy were observed across
efficacious dose levels in patients with gastric and esophageal cancer whose cancer had progressed after multiple lines of prior therapies,
including PD-1 therapy. Encouragingly, efficacy signals were also observed in patients with low CLDN18.2 expression, indicating its
potential to treat CLDN18.2 low-expressing tumors where other CLDN18.2 targeted agents have shown a limited treatment effect. In
October 2023, we presented the topline Phase 1 data of givastomig with promising early efficacy signals, including patients with low
levels of CLDN18.2 tumor expression, at the ESMO annual meeting. Phase 1 dose escalation has reached the highest planned dose level.
Most treatment-related adverse events have been low-grade. In this study, encouraging findings of monotherapy efficacy were observed,
including in tumors with lower levels of CLDN18.2 expression, in patients with previously treated cancer that has relapsed or progressed
after prior standard treatments.
Clinical Development Plan
Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, we do not own the rights to develop and
commercialize givastomig in Greater China. The Phase 1 study, which was still ongoing at the time of divestiture, is a global study with
sites and patients enrolled in both the U.S. and China. We expect to continue to sponsor this study in both the U.S. and China territories.
More data from the ongoing study are anticipated in the first half of 2024, with potential for presentation at academic meetings in the
second half of 2024. In addition, dose escalation in combination with standard chemotherapy and immunotherapy regimens for patients
with treatment naïve gastric, gastro-esophageal junction, and esophageal cancer began in the first quarter of 2024. In parallel, we are
developing a CLDN18.2 immunohistochemistry assay for patient selection, which we expect to use in our future clinical studies.
Furthermore, we are in the process of exploring potential global partnership opportunities for givastomig.
Ragistomig (TJ-L14B): A PD-L1-Based Tumor-Dependent T-Cell Engager for Solid Tumors
Summary
Ragistomig, also known as TJ-L14B or ABL503, is a bi-specific antibody targeting both PD-L1 and 4-1BB and was developed in
collaboration with ABL Bio. It was designed to improve the efficacy of anti-PD-(L)1 therapies while mitigating the potential toxicity
associated with earlier 4-1BB-directed therapies. Similar to givastomig, 4-1BB-stimulated T cell activity only occurs upon tumor cell
binding by the anti-PD-L1 part of ragistomig. This localized T cell activation is expected to exert strong anti-tumor activity while
reducing systemic side effects such as liver toxicity. In a humanized mouse tumor model, a short course of ragistomig treatment
displayed greater anti-tumor efficacy than anti-PD-L1 or anti-4-1BB antibodies alone or in combination and showed evidence of
immunological memory response that resisted tumor re-challenge. We share the global rights with ABL Bio for ragistomig, except for in
Greater China and South Korea where ABL Bio has sole rights. In September 2023, ragistomig successfully obtained patent registration
in eight Eurasian countries. The patent, officially named “Anti-PD-L1/Anti-4-1BB Bispecific Antibody and Its Applications,” secures
patent rights extending through 2039. Furthermore, this patent has already been granted in Chile, South Africa and Japan. Patent
examinations are currently underway in over 20 countries, including the U.S., China and countries in Europe.
Therapeutic Indications
New therapeutic options are urgently needed for cancers that are refractory to or relapse after PD-(L)1 treatment. The approach of
ragistomig is to maximize T cell activity by simultaneously blocking the inhibitory pathways via PD-L1 binding and turning on co-
stimulatory 4-1BB pathway. In addition to I-Mab, other companies are developing PD-L1 x 4-1BB bi-specific antibodies, including
Genmab and Inhibrx.
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Advantages of Ragistomig
We believe that based on publicly available information and preclinical studies, ragistomig has the potential to be a highly
differentiated PD-L1 and 4-1BB bispecific antibody. In terms of format, some of the leading compounds are monovalent heterodimers
which may affect the potency of each arm and increase the complexity of chemistry, manufacturing and controls. In addition, as detailed
earlier, the anti-4-1BB moiety of ragistomig binds to a novel epitope that only triggers 4-1BB signaling upon tumor binding leading to a
reduced cytokine release and hepatic and systemic immunotoxicity without compromising anti-tumor activity. Ragistomig is also more
specific than certain competitor molecules in terms of 4-1BB binding relative to other TNFR families of co-stimulatory molecules. If
proven in clinical trials, these potential advantages could differentiate ragistomig from other competing compounds.
Summary of Preclinical Results
PD-L1 level-dependent 4-1BB Agonism and T cell Activity. The ability of ragistomig to ligate 4-1BB and activate downstream
signaling was tested in a co-culture of PD-L1+ target cells with T cells as effectors. The results in the figure show that the level of NF-kB
reporter activity elicited by ragistomig correlated with the level of PD-L1 expression on the target cells. In contrast, urelumab induced
NF-kB reporter activity regardless of target cell PD-L1 expression. Importantly, ragistomig promoted the proliferation of CD8+ tumor-
infiltrating lymphocytes obtained from human tumor samples in a similar extent to urelumab, while the parental anti-PD-L1 and anti-4-
1BB antibodies, either alone or in combination, had no effect, confirming a strict PD-L1-dependence on T cell stimulation by ragistomig.
Figure: Dose-dependent PD-L1-restricted T cell activity by ragistomig/ABL503 but not urelumab in a co-culture system of T cells and
target cells expressing different levels of PD-L1 (as represented by mean fluorescent intensity (MFJ) values).
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Superior in vivo Anti-tumor Efficacy of ragistomig. In mice grafted with tumor cells expressing human PD-L1, ragistomig treatment
every three days for four cycles suppressed tumor cell growth in a dose-dependent manner, delivering far better efficacy than equimolar
doses of single agents alone or in combination. Remarkably, when the treated tumor-free mice were re-challenged with a second tumor
graft after drug cessation, they remained resistant, indicating that ragistomig produced a durable anti-tumor response.
Figure: Potent in vivo anti-tumor activity of ragistomig in a mouse tumor model. Mice transgenic for humanized 4-1BB were grafted
with MC38 cells expressing human PD-L1. Mice were treated with the indicated antibodies every three days for four times.
Tumor-free animals were re-challenged with a second dose of the tumor on day 40 with treatment-naïve animals as a control.
Ragistomig is also known as ABL503.
Preclinical Safety. In contrast to certain competitor PD-L1 x 4-1BB bispecific antibodies, ragistomig did not induce cytokine release
(including IL-6 and TNF-α) up to 0.83 mg/ml, which corresponded to a human equivalent dose of 15 mg/kg. Animal pharmacokinetic
and toxicity studies have also been completed. Results of these studies indicate that the NOAEL was 15 mg/kg/dose. This dose was also
considered the highest non-severely toxic dose. A starting dose of 0.7 mg is proposed for the first-in-human study. There is a >3000-fold
safety margin between the proposed first-in-human dose and the nonclinical safety assessment studies including in vitro cytokine release
assays and good laboratory practice toxicology studies.
Summary of Clinical Results
Phase 1 dose-escalation study is underway in patients with progressive, locally advanced or metastatic solid tumors who are relapsed
or refractory following prior lines of treatment. The dose expansion portion of the Phase 1 study is actively underway in the U.S. and
South Korea. While preliminary efficacy signals have emerged, the maximally tolerated dose has not yet been reached.
Clinical Development Plan
Our partner ABL Bio will present the top-line Phase 1 clinical data at a major medical conference in the first half of 2024. More data
will be generated and reported as the trial progresses.
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Lemzoparlimab (TJC4): A Novel CD47 Antibody for Immuno-Oncology
Summary
Lemzoparlimab is a fully human CD47 monoclonal antibody discovered and developed internally by our company for cancer
immunotherapy. Development of CD47 antibodies has been challenging due to their on-target binding to CD47 expressed on red blood
cells (RBCs). Therefore, various CD47 antibodies in their clinical development may potentially cause severe hemolytic anemia and other
hematologic side effects. As a result, many CD47 antibody programs have either been terminated or faced drug safety challenges in
clinical trials.
Lemzoparlimab is a novel CD47 antibody by design. It was originally selected from antibody screen campaigns designed to identify
CD47 antibody leads with minimal binding to RBCs while maintaining strong binding to tumor cells.
In September 2020, we granted AbbVie Ireland Unlimited Company, or AbbVie, an ex-Greater China license to develop and
commercialize lemzoparlimab (as well as certain other compounds directed against CD47). On August 15, 2022, we and AbbVie Global
Enterprises Ltd. (as an assignee of AbbVie) entered into an amendment to the original licensing and collaboration agreement. This
amended agreement is referred to as the “AbbVie Collaboration Agreement.” AbbVie discontinued certain clinical studies of
lemzoparlimab, and such discontinuations were not related to any specific or unexpected safety concerns. On September 21, 2023, we
received a notice from AbbVie, terminating the AbbVie Collaboration Agreement in its entirety. Such termination is based on the
previous program discontinuation and AbbVie’s strategic decision.
In terms of lemzoparlimab’s differentiation in drug safety, the preclinical, Phase 1, and Phase 2 clinical studies we previously
conducted in China have supported a good safety profile without the need for a priming dosing regimen. In terms of treatment efficacy,
the Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical trials have demonstrated encouraging efficacy signals, mostly in hematologic malignancies. We
previously initiated a Phase 3 clinical trial for first-line myelodysplastic syndromes combination therapy in China in April 2023,
however, following the termination of the AbbVie Collaboration Agreement and the completion of the divestiture of the Greater China
assets and business operations, we ceased to sponsor this Phase 3 clinical trial of lemzoparlimab. We will continue to evaluate
opportunities to further develop lemzoparlimab and related drugs, as well as potential business partnership with other global
pharmaceutical and bio-tech companies in the future. Those decisions may be informed by additional insights gained from
lemzoparlimab clinical data, non-clinical data, or updated knowledge of the asset class.
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The Underlying Mechanism for Lemzoparlimab’s Differentiation
We set forth to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the minimal binding of lemzoparlimab to RBCs. The crystal
structure of the CD47 antibody binding complex revealed that lemzoparlimab binds to a unique epitope of CD47 situated in a heavily
glycosylated site on RBCs. More specifically, the results of crystal structure analysis identified an N-glycosylation site located near the
epitope residues. Additional experiments were carried out to address the hypothesis of whether this glycosylation site near the epitope
may hinder lemzoparlimab from fully binding to its epitope on RBCs. The data showed that PNGase treatment of RBCs to remove the N-
linked oligosaccharides from glycoproteins significantly increased the binding of lemzoparlimab as compared with a control antibody,
providing the evidence that removal of glycosylation site(s) on RBC effectively restores binding of lemzoparlimab to RBCs.
Figure: The left. Crystal structure of the complex of the Fab of lemzoparlimab (TJC4, Cyan) binding with the extracellular domain of
human CD47 (Green). The right. In a representative experiment, human RBCs were treated with PNGase for 1 hr, followed by
the addition of lemzoparlimab (TJC4) ore comparator CD47 antibody that binds strongly to RBC at the indicated
concentrations. The binding of CD47 antibodies to the treated (de-glycosylated) or untreated RBCs was analyzed by flow
cytometry.
In summary, the underlying mechanism is attributable to a unique binding site of lemzoparlimab or so-called glyco-epitope on
RBCs. That is, the unique glycosylation integrated with the binding site of lemzoparlimab serves as a natural molecular barrier to prevent
lemzoparlimab from engaging RBCs. Therefore, RBCs are only minimally accessible by lemzoparlimab. In contrast, the binding site on
tumor cells does not have the same glycosylation pattern and is fully exposed to and accessible by lemzoparlimab. Therefore,
lemzoparlimab can uniquely distinguish tumor cells from RBCs to avoid severe anemia that is commonly observed with other CD47
antibodies while retaining strong anti-tumor activity. Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, the
aforementioned Phase 3 clinical trial for first-line myelodysplastic syndromes combination therapy in China is now sponsored by our
divested PRC subsidiaries.
Licensing and Collaboration Arrangements
A. In-Licensing Arrangements
Licensing Agreement with MorphoSys (Felzartamab)
In November 2017, we entered into a license and collaboration agreement with MorphoSys AG, or MorphoSys, with respect to the
development and commercialization of felzartamab (MOR202/TJ202), MorphoSys’s proprietary investigational antibody against CD38,
or the CD38 product.
Under this agreement, MorphoSys granted to us an exclusive, royalty-bearing, sublicensable license to exploit MOR202/TJ202 for
any human therapeutic or diagnostic purpose in the licensed territory, namely Greater China.
Pursuant to this agreement, we granted to MorphoSys an exclusive license to our rights in any inventions that we make while
exploiting MOR202/TJ202 under this agreement, solely to exploit MOR202/TJ202 outside of Greater China.
We also received the right to sublicense to affiliates and third parties acting as contract manufacturers, CROs, distributors or
wholesalers without prior written consent, as well as the right to sublicense to other third parties with the prior written consent of
MorphoSys, not to be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned.
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We are solely responsible for the development and commercialization of MOR202/TJ202 in Greater China, and must use commercially
reasonable efforts as we develop and commercialize MOR202/TJ202.
Pursuant to this agreement, we paid to MorphoSys an upfront license fee of US$20.0 million. We also agreed to make milestone payments
to MorphoSys, conditioned upon the achievement of certain development, regulatory and commercial milestones, in the aggregate amount of
US$98.5 million. Such milestones include first patient dosed in human clinical trials, marketing approval, and first annual net sales of CD38
products covered by the agreement in excess of a certain amount. As of the date of this annual report, we have made milestone payments of
US$8.0 million to MorphoSys.
Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations and as of the date of this annual report, we are no longer a
contracting party of the license and collaboration agreement with MorphoSys with respect to felzartamab and will no longer assume any rights,
title, interest and obligations thereof.
Assignment and License Agreement with Genexine
In October 2015, I-Mab Bio-tech Tianjin Co., Ltd., formerly known as Tasgen Bio-tech (Tianjin) Co., Ltd., or I-Mab Tianjin, which
subsequently became our subsidiary following our acquisition of a controlling interest in it in 2017, entered into an intellectual property
assignment and license agreement with Genexine, Inc., or Genexine, further amended in December 2017, with respect to four licensed products,
namely GX-H9 (TJ101), GX-G3 (TJ102), GX-G8 and GX-P2 and one assigned product, GX-G6 (TJ103). Under this agreement, Genexine (i)
granted to I-Mab Tianjin an exclusive, non-transferable, sublicensable license to use and otherwise exploit certain intellectual property to engage
in pre-clinical and clinical development, manufacturing, sale and distribution of the above-mentioned licensed products for (A) the treatment of
any disease with respect to GX-H9 and GX-G3 in China (which, for clarity excludes, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan), (B) the treatment of
chemically induced diarrhea, with respect to GX-G8 anywhere in the world and (C) the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and lupus (not
including psoriasis) with respect to GX-P2 anywhere in the world and further (ii) assigned to I-Mab Tianjin a certain Chinese patent and related
know-how related to the assigned product (TJ103) and granted I-Mab Tianjin an exclusive license to exploit the assigned intellectual property to
engage in pre-clinical and clinical development, manufacturing, sale and distribution of the assigned product (TJ103) for the treatment of any
disease in China (which, for clarity, excludes Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan). I-Mab Tianjin also receives an exclusive license to any
improvements that Genexine develops or acquires related to any of the aforementioned products.
Under this agreement, I-Mab Tianjin paid an aggregate upfront license fee of US$13.0 million in relation to the patents, patent applications,
know-how, data and information in connection with the four licensed products and a purchase fee of US$7.0 million in connection with the
assigned product (TJ103). I-Mab Tianjin also agreed to make certain milestone payments, including milestone payments in the aggregate
amount of US$40.0 million for GX-H9, US$25.0 million for TJ103 and US$15.0 million for GX-G3, conditioned upon the achievement of
certain net sales targets.
In November 2018, we entered into an intellectual property license agreement with Genexine with respect to GX-G3 (TJ102). Under
this agreement, Genexine granted to us an exclusive, non-transferable, sublicensable license to use and otherwise exploit certain
intellectual property to engage in pre-clinical and clinical development, manufacturing, sale and distribution of GX-G3 for the treatment
of any disease in Taiwan and Hong Kong. We also received an exclusive license to use any improvements related to GX-G3 that
Genexine develops or acquires free of charge in Taiwan and Hong Kong. Under this agreement, the scope of improvements is limited to
GX-G3 and does not include the hyFc platform. We paid an upfront license fee of US$0.1 million and milestone payments of US$0.9
million to Genexine. No other milestone payments are due under this agreement. Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets
and business operations and as of the date of this annual report, we are no longer a contracting party of the intellectual property
assignment and license agreement with Genexine with respect to GX-H9 (TJ101), GX-G3 (TJ102), GX-G8, GX-P2 and GX-G6 (TJ103)
and will no longer assume any rights, title, interest and obligations thereof.
Licensing Agreement with Genexine (Efineptakin alfa)
In December 2017, we entered into an intellectual property license agreement with Genexine with respect to GX-I7, a long-acting
IL-7 cytokine. Under this agreement, Genexine granted to us an exclusive, sublicensable and transferable license to use and otherwise
exploit certain intellectual property (including improvements subsequently developed or acquired by Genexine) in connection with the
pre-clinical and clinical development, manufacturing, sale and distribution of GX-I7 to treat cancers in the field of oncology in mainland
China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.
Under this agreement, we paid an upfront license fee of US$12.0 million to Genexine. We also agreed to make milestone payments
in the aggregate amount of US$23.0 million, conditioned upon the achievement of certain development milestones, including completion
of Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical studies and approval of a new drug application or biologics license application in any of mainland China,
Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan.
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Further, we agreed to make milestone payments in the aggregate amount of US$525.0 million, conditioned upon the achievement of
certain cumulative net sales of GX-I7 up to US$2,000 million. We also are required to pay Genexine a low-single-digit percentage
royalty in respect of the total annual net sales of GX-I7. The aforesaid milestones and royalties (other than the upfront payment) will be
reduced by 50% following the entry of a generic version of GX-I7 in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan without the
consent or authorization of us or any of our sublicensees. As of the date of this annual report, no milestone payments or royalties are due
under this agreement.
Unless terminated earlier in accordance with the terms thereof, this agreement will remain in effect until the later of (i) the expiry of
the last to expire patent of the licensed intellectual property that includes a valid claim for mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau or
Taiwan and that covers the composition of GX-I7; and (ii) 15 years from the date of the first commercial sale of GX-I7. This agreement
may be terminated by either party for the other party’s uncured material breach, bankruptcy or insolvency, in the event of force majeure
or regulatory requirement to make material alteration or modification to the contractual rights or obligations of this agreement which has
the effect of preventing the parties from achieving their business objectives, or by mutual agreement of both parties. Genexine has the
right to terminate the agreement under specific circumstances, including if we fail to use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain
regulatory approvals or other registrations necessary for commercializing the licensed product in the agreed period due to our fault and if
we cease to pursue clinical development or product registration or to conduct licensed activities on a reasonable scale as agreed. This
agreement expressly states that these termination circumstances include our failure to achieve certain development milestones or
commercially launch the licensed product in the agreed period. To the extent that we terminate as a result of a regulatory requirement to
make material alteration or modification to the contractual rights or obligations of this agreement or Genexine terminates for our material
breach, bankruptcy or insolvency, force majeure, or the specific termination circumstances as mentioned above, we cannot develop,
manufacture, market, promote, sell, offer for sale, distribute or otherwise make available any competing product for a certain period after
such termination.
During the term of this agreement, if we develop or acquire any improvement, modification or alteration to the licensed product, we
will own such improvements, modifications or alterations and provide Genexine details thereof, whether patentable or not. Additionally,
we should grant to Genexine a fully paid up, royalty-free, exclusive license (with a right to sublicense) to use any such improvements,
modifications or alterations anywhere outside of mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.
In May 2020, we and Genexine entered into an amendment to this agreement, whereby both parties desire to establish a
collaboration on TJ107 GBM Study in Greater China. Under the expanded collaboration, we are mainly responsible for using
commercially reasonable efforts to conduct the Phase 2 GBM clinical trial in Greater China, and Genexine will share the development
strategies, data and costs for success of this clinical trial. As of December 31, 2023, the costs incurred for the development of this new
indication was RMB1.7 million (US$0.25 million) and thus RMB1.2 million (US$0.17 million) was recorded in our audited consolidated
financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations and as of the date of this annual report, we have not
completed the assignment of the intellectual property license agreement with Genexine with respect to efineptakin alfa.
Licensing Agreement with Ferring (Olamkicept)
In November 2016, we entered into a license and sublicense agreement with Ferring International Center SA, or Ferring, with
respect to (i) FE301, an interleukin-6 inhibitor, and (ii) all pharmaceutical formulations in finished packaged form containing FE301
covered by certain patents or patent applications. Under this agreement, Ferring granted to us an exclusive, sublicensable license
(excluding any non-exclusive license that Ferring granted to Conaris Research Institute AG under a licensing agreement entered into in
November 2008) under certain Ferring intellectual property to research, develop, make, have made, import, use, sell and offer to sell
FE301 (and the licensed products containing FE301) in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan and South Korea. We also have an
option to receive an exclusive, sublicensable license under certain Ferring intellectual property to research, develop, make, have made,
import, use, sell and offer to sell FE301 (and the licensed products containing FE301) in countries in North America, the European Union
and Japan that are mutually agreed upon by the parties.
We are required to use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain approval of FE301 and to promote, market, distribute and sell it in
mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and South Korea. Such activities are to be at our own cost and expense.
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Under this agreement, we paid to Ferring an upfront license fee of US$2.0 million. We also agreed to make milestone payments to
Ferring, in the aggregate amount of US$14.5 million, conditioned on the achievement of certain development milestones in the licensed
territory, including completion of Phase 1b and Phase 2a clinical studies and the submission and approval of the new drug application.
Further, if we exercise our option to receive a license in any of the mutually agreed upon countries in North America, the European
Union and Japan, we are required to pay to Ferring an additional US$3.0 million as an upfront license fee (upon the exercise of the
option), and milestone fees up to the aggregate amount of US$30.0 million, conditioned upon the licensed product achieving certain
development milestones in certain countries in the option territory.
In addition, we agreed to pay Ferring tiered royalties ranging from the mid-single-digit to high-single-digit percentages of annual net
sales for countries in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and South Korea, and from the high-single-digits to 10% of annual
net sales for the mutually agreed upon countries in North America, the European Union and Japan. To date, we have not paid any
royalties to Ferring.
The royalty term commences with the first commercial sale of the licensed product in the relevant country and ends upon the later of
(i) 15 years from the date of launch, and (ii) the expiry of the last to expire patent of Ferring that includes a valid claim covering the
development, making, using or selling of the licensed compound or licensed product in the licensed territory and/or option territory.
Unless terminated earlier in accordance with the terms thereof, this agreement will remain in effect until the later of the expiry of the
royalty term, and the first date on which we are not conducting any necessary and outstanding clinical study with respect to the licensed
product or seeking to obtain any necessary and pending regulatory approval for the licensed product, if applicable. This agreement may
be terminated by either party for the other party’s uncured material breach, bankruptcy or insolvency. In addition, in the event that the
original licensor terminates its license to Ferring governing any of the intellectual property sublicensed to us under this agreement,
Ferring has the right to terminate this agreement with respect to such sublicenses in which case both parties will discuss in good faith
how to resolve and mitigate to mutual satisfaction. To the extent that Ferring terminates for our material breach, bankruptcy or
insolvency, among other things, all licenses and rights granted by Ferring to us will automatically terminate and the licenses and rights
we granted to Ferring will survive and automatically become irrevocable with the right to sublicense.
During the term of the licensing agreement, if we develop or acquire any improvement, modification, enhancement or addition to the
licensed product, we will own and retain all rights, title and interest therein, and grant to Ferring a non-exclusive, fully paid, royalty-free,
worldwide license thereto.
In September 2020, we entered into a sublicense agreement with I-Mab Hangzhou, under which we sublicensed to I-Mab Hangzhou
an exclusive, sublicensable license to develop, manufacture and commercialize olamkicept in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau,
Taiwan and South Korea. In December 2021, we entered into a supplementary sublicensing agreement with I-Mab Hangzhou, pursuant
to which I-Mab Hangzhou, as a sub-licensee of olamkicept (TJ301) in Greater China and Korea, agreed to pay US$3.0 million to us for
the completion of olamkicept (TJ301) Phase 2a study report. After receiving the milestone payment of RMB19.1 million (US$3.0
million) from I-Mab Hangzhou, we made the payment of US$3.0 million to Ferring, as of December 31, 2023.
In May 2022, we entered into an amended and restated license and sublicense agreement and a cell line and manufacturing
collaboration agreement with Ferring, under which we granted to Ferring an exclusive, perpetual and transferrable sublicense, with the
right to grant further sublicenses to sublicensees, under all of the intellectual properties licensed to us by our business partner, to
research, develop, make, import, use and sell olamkicept as expressed by or produced by cell lines created by our business partner and its
affiliates in any human indications in the territories other than Greater China and Korea. We also granted to Ferring an exclusive,
perpetual and royalty-free license, with right of sublicense to sublicensees, under the intellectual property owned or controlled by our
company which relates to cell lines created by our business partner and its affiliates, for the research, development, making, using or
selling of olamkicept, including prespecified patents and know-how and improvements thereto. As of December 31, 2023, Ferring paid
to us the milestone payment as specified in the agreement. Ferring also agreed to make milestone payments to us, conditioned on the
achievement of certain development milestones in Ferring’s licensed territory.
License and Collaboration Agreement with MacroGenics (enoblituzumab)
In July 2019, we entered into a license and collaboration agreement with MacroGenics, Inc. for development and commercialization
of an Fc-optimized antibody known as enoblituzumab that targets B7-H3, including in combination with other agents, such as the anti-
PD-1 antibody known as retifanlimab (formerly MGA012), in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.
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Under this agreement, MacroGenics granted to us an exclusive, sublicensable, royalty-bearing license to MacroGenics’ patents and
know-how to develop and commercialize the enoblituzumab product, and a combination regimen of enoblituzumab and retifanlimab, in
Greater China during the term of the agreement.
In exchange for these rights, in addition to certain financial consideration, we grant to MacroGenics a royalty-free, sublicensable,
license outside of Greater China, to our patents and know-how that are related to the enoblituzumab product or useful or necessary for
MacroGenics to develop or commercialize the enoblituzumab product or a product containing retifanlimab, and combinations thereof.
The license is (i) non-exclusive with respect to the enoblituzumab product, and (ii) exclusive with regard to retifanlimab.
Unless prohibited by applicable laws and regulations, which include all international, national, federal, state, regional, provincial,
municipal and local government laws, rules, and regulations that apply to either us or MacroGenics or to the conduct of the collaboration
under this agreement (including Good Manufacturing Practice, Good Clinical Practices, General Biological Products Standards, and the
laws, rules and regulations of the International Conference on Harmonisation, the United States, mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau,
and Taiwan, each as may be then in effect, as applicable and amended from time to time), we co-own all clinical data generated pursuant
to this agreement in any clinical trial conducted solely in Greater China, and, to the extent that such joint ownership is not legally
permitted, MacroGenics is the sole and exclusive owner of such clinical data. MacroGenics solely and exclusively owns all other clinical
data generated pursuant to this agreement. We are not aware of any applicable laws or regulations that would prohibit us from jointly
owning such clinical data and, to our knowledge, we currently qualify for such joint ownership with MacroGenics under this agreement.
Pursuant to this agreement, we paid MacroGenics an upfront payment of US$15.0 million. We also agreed to pay MacroGenics
development and regulatory milestone fees of up to US$135.0 million and tiered double-digit royalties (ranging from mid-teens to twenty
percent) based on annual net sales in the territories. As of the date of this annual report, we have made a milestone payment of US$4.5
million to MacroGenics. In July 2022, due to an unexpected high incidence of fatal bleeding, MacroGenics terminated a phase 2 study of
enoblituzumab as a combination therapy with PD-1 antibody or PD-1/LAG3 bispecific antibody in patients with head and neck cancers.
We exercised our right to terminate the license and collaboration agreement with MacroGenics by serving a termination notice on August
29, 2022 and the termination came into effect in February 2023.
Other In-Licensing Arrangements
In November 2018, we entered into a license and collaboration agreement with MorphoSys for MorphoSys’s proprietary antibody
(MOR210/TJ210) directed against C5aR. Under this agreement, MorphoSys granted to us an exclusive, royalty-bearing license to
explore, develop and commercialize MOR210/TJ210 in Greater China and South Korea and allowed us to share certain economics upon
certain clinical milestones in the U.S. As of the date of this annual report, we have received the economics sharing of US$0.9 million
from MorphoSys. I-Mab agreed to perform and fund all global development activities related to the development of MOR210/TJ210 in
Greater China and South Korea, including all clinical trials (including in the U.S. and China) and all development activities required for
IND filing in the U.S. as well as the development of chemistry, manufacturing and controls. As of the date of this annual report, we have
made an upfront payment of US$3.5 million and milestone payment of US$2.5 million to MorphoSys. No other milestone payments or
royalties are due under this agreement in the reporting period. MorphoSys retains rights in respect of development and commercialization
of MOR210/TJ210 in the rest of the world. Additionally, MorphoSys maintains the right to conduct activities in Greater China and South
Korea that enable MorphoSys to exploit MOR210/TJ210 outside of those countries. Pursuant to the license and collaboration agreement
we entered into with MorphoSys in relation to MOR210/TJ210, we are required to use commercially reasonable efforts as we develop
and commercialize MOR210/TJ210 in Greater China and South Korea. This agreement may be terminated by either party for the other
party’s uncured material breach, bankruptcy or insolvency. In addition, we have the right to terminate the agreement for convenience at
any time after a certain specified time period upon a notice period that varies based upon the stage of development and for safety reasons.
MorphoSys has the right to terminate the agreement if we challenge its patents. To the extent that we terminate for convenience or
MorphoSys terminates for our material breach, bankruptcy, insolvency or patent challenge, among other things, all licenses and rights
granted by MorphoSys to us will automatically terminate and the licenses and rights granted by us to MorphoSys will survive. In the
event of such termination, in addition to other obligations, we must grant to MorphoSys an exclusive, royalty-bearing, sublicensable
license under certain of our intellectual property relating to the licensed product to exploit MOR210/TJ210 in Greater China and South
Korea. Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations and as of the date of this annual report, we are no
longer a contracting party of the license and collaboration agreement with MorphoSys with respect to MOR210/TJ210 and will no longer
assume any rights, title, interest and obligations thereof.
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B. Out-Licensing Arrangements
Licensing Agreement with ABL Bio
In July 2018, we entered into a license and collaboration agreement with ABL Bio, or the ABL Bio License, as amended from time
to time. Under the ABL Bio License, we granted to ABL Bio exclusive, worldwide (excluding Greater China), royalty-bearing rights to
develop and commercialize a bispecific antibody, or the BsAb, using certain of our monoclonal antibody sequences. ABL Bio has
developed expertise in the area of bispecific antibodies for all indications and has developed proprietary intellectual property around the
BsAb technology, and the license allows ABL Bio to further develop and commercialize the BsAb based on monoclonal antibodies
licensed from us under the ABL Bio License. ABL Bio granted to us an exclusive, royalty-free, sublicensable license under its interest in
the BsAb and related know-how (including improvements thereto) to exploit the licensed BsAb in Greater China.
Under the ABL Bio License, we and ABL Bio each are responsible for using commercially reasonable efforts to develop the
licensed products through the completion of in vivo studies, and ABL Bio is responsible for using commercially reasonable efforts
thereafter. We agreed to split costs fifty-fifty (50:50) with ABL Bio through the completion of in vivo studies, with ABL Bio responsible
for all costs and activities following that time. ABL Bio is responsible for all development and commercialization activities in its own
territories, subject to our input through a joint committee comprised of an equal number of our and ABL Bio’s representatives (though
ABL Bio has final decision-making authority).
In consideration of the license, ABL Bio paid us an upfront fee of US$2.5 million and agrees to make milestone payments in the
aggregate amount of US$97.5 million conditioned upon achieving certain clinical development and sales milestones. Further, ABL Bio
agreed to pay us royalties of mid-single-digit percentages on the total annual net sales of the licensed BsAb product.
In addition, ABL Bio granted to us an exclusive, royalty-free, sublicensable license to use its BsAb technology solely to exploit the
licensed BsAb product for all indications in Greater China.
We also agreed that, during the term of the ABL Bio License, neither we nor ABL Bio would develop independently from the other
a bispecific antibody that uses the same pair of antibodies as the bispecific antibody molecules created under the ABL Bio License.
The ABL Bio License will continue to be in effect until expiration of the last payment obligation thereunder, unless earlier
terminated according to its terms. The ABL Bio License may be terminated by either party for the other party’s uncured material breach
or in the event that the other party challenges its patents. In addition, after a certain specified time period, ABL Bio may terminate the
ABL Bio License upon a notice period that varies based upon the stage of development.
Upon expiration (but not termination) of the ABL Bio License, we and ABL Bio will each retain our respective licenses granted
under the ABL Bio License. If the ABL Bio License is terminated pursuant to ABL Bio’s right to terminate at will or due to ABL Bio’s
material breach, all rights and obligations (including all licenses granted) shall terminate and upon our request, we and ABL Bio will
negotiate in good faith regarding our takeover of the exploitation of the BsAb product outside of Greater China in exchange for
reasonable compensation. Such negotiation will include, among other things, ABL Bio’s assignment of assets related to the licensed
BsAb product and the continuation of the licenses granted to us under the ABL Bio License.
In September 2020, we assigned and transferred all our rights and obligations under the ABL Bio License to I-Mag Hangzhou.
Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations and as of the date of this annual report, we will no longer
assume any rights, title, interest and obligations thereof.
Licensing Agreement with CSPC Entity
In December 2018, we entered into a product development agreement with an entity controlled by CSPC Pharmaceutical Group
Limited (HKEX: 1093), or CSPC Entity. Under this agreement, we granted to CSPC Entity exclusive, non-transferable, non-irrevocable
and sublicensable rights under our patent rights in China to develop and commercialize TJ103 for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus and
any other potential therapeutic applications. CSPC Entity’s right to sublicense is conditioned on our prior written consent, which we
cannot unreasonably withhold, other than sublicense to CSPC Entity’s affiliates. CSPC Entity is a comprehensive pharmaceutical and
drug manufacturing company, with an increasing focus on its research and development of new products focusing the therapeutic area of
oncology, among others.
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Under this agreement, CSPC Entity is responsible for using commercially reasonable efforts to develop, obtain market approval and
commercialize the licensed products, while we are responsible for using commercially reasonable efforts to transfer the manufacturing
technology of the licensed products to CSPC Entity and assist or guide CSPC Entity in the continued optimization of such manufacturing
technology thereafter. CSPC Entity has final decision-making authority with respect to product development (though the research plan
should be jointly developed by both parties and any changes to the plan should be discussed and approved by the joint development
committee) and commercialization.
We also agreed that, during the term of this agreement, we should not develop, either for ourselves or for third parties, any other
hyFc platform technology-based long-acting recombinant GLP-1 Fc fusion proteins that may be in a competitive position with TJ103.
In consideration of the license, CSPC Entity paid us an upfront fee of RMB15.0 million and milestone payment of RMB15.0
million. Further, CSPC agreed to make milestone payments in an aggregate amount of RMB118.5 million conditioned upon achieving
certain clinical development and regulatory approval milestones, including completion of Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical studies and
obtaining approval of a new drug application or market approval. Further, we are also entitled to tiered royalties ranging from mid-
single-digit percentages to 10 percent in respect of the total annual net sales of the products after their commercialization in China. The
royalty term will terminate at the later of: (i) the expiry date of the underlying patents of the licensed products with application numbers
201410851771.1 and 201580071643.8 (final grant of rights requested relating to GLP-1) in China, whichever is later; and (ii) the ten-
year anniversary of the initial commercialization of the product developed under this agreement. We expect any patents that may issue
under the aforementioned patent application numbers 201410851771.1 and 201580071643.8 will expire between 2034 and 2035, before
taking into account any extension that may be obtained through patent term extensions or adjustments, or term reduction due to filing of
terminal disclaimers.
Unless terminated earlier in accordance with the terms thereof, this agreement will remain in effect until the termination of the
royalty term. This agreement may be terminated by either party for the other party’s uncured material breach, bankruptcy or insolvency
or force majeure. We have the right to terminate the agreement if CSPC Entity fails to use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain
regulatory approvals for commercializing the licensed product in the period stipulated by its board of directors due to its own fault or if
CSPC Entity ceases to pursue clinical development or product registration as determined by its board of directors. CSPC Entity has the
right to terminate the agreement if we fail to resolve certain intellectual property disputes relating to TJ103 within six months after
signing.
During the term of this agreement, CSPC Entity has exclusive, royalty-free rights in China to any work product generated by us, and
be responsible for any patent application and maintenance costs of such work product. CSPC Entity has all rights to any work product
generated by itself under this agreement.
Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations and as of the date of this annual report, we are no
longer a contracting party of the product development agreement with CSPC Entity with respect to TJ103 and will no longer assume any
rights, title, interest and obligations thereof.
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Other Out-Licensing Arrangements
In April 2017, our subsidiary I-Mab Shanghai entered into a technology transfer agreement with Ningbo Hou De Yi Min Information
Technology Co., Ltd., or HDYM, and Hangzhou HealSun Biopharm Co., Ltd., or HealSun, with respect to PD-L1 humanized
monoclonal antibodies. HealSun is a portfolio company of Lepu Biotech. Under this agreement, I-Mab Shanghai agreed to grant to
HDYM exclusive (even to I-Mab Shanghai itself), worldwide and sublicensable rights to develop, manufacture, have manufactured, use,
sell, have sold, import, or otherwise exploit certain PD-L1 related patents, patent applications, know-hows, data and information of I-
Mab Shanghai, relevant cell lines as well as any PD-L1 monoclonal antibody arising from such cell lines for the treatment of diseases.
Further, I-Mab Shanghai and its cooperative party HealSun agreed to provide subsequent research and development services on such
intellectual property to HDYM, including the selection and examination of innovative PD-L1 humanized monoclonal antibodies,
cultivation and selection of stable cell lines, establishment of cell bank, research and development of manufacturing processes and
preparation of samples, toxicological and pharmacological testing, pre-clinical pharmaceutical experiment report drafting, and
application for and registration of clinical trials. If any party breaches the agreement and fails to cure, the non-breaching parties may
terminate this agreement. In addition, in the event that the development of the licensed product encounters insurmountable technical
difficulties, this agreement may be terminated by mutual agreement of all parties. To the extent that the agreement is terminated for
HDYM’s breach, all licenses and rights granted by us to HDYM will automatically terminate and be re-assigned to us. To the extent that
the agreement is terminated due to material difficulty, HDYM will have all rights to dispose of any development data and technology
held by HealSun and us under this agreement and neither HealSun or us may use such development data and technology without
HDYM’s consent. Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations and as of the date of this annual report,
we are no longer a contracting party of the technology transfer agreement with HDYM and Healsun with respect to PD-L1 humanized
monoclonal antibodies and will no longer assume any rights, title, interest and obligations thereof.
In March 2020, we entered into a strategic partnership with Kalbe Genexine Biologics, or KG, a joint venture of Kalbe Farma Tbk,
or Kalbe, and Genexine. Under the terms of the agreement, KG has a right of first negotiation for an exclusive license for the
commercialization of two I-Mab-discovered product candidates: uliledlimab, a differentiated anti-CD73 antibody in Phase 1
development for advanced solid tumors, and an I-Mab product candidate to be agreed upon by both parties. With the agreement, KG has
a right of first negotiation for exclusive rights to commercialize these two product candidates in the ASEAN (Brunei Darussalam,
Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam) and MENA (Algeria, Bahrain, Djibouti,
Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Malta, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, and Palestine)
regions, as well as Sri Lanka. If and when we and KG enter into the definitive licensing agreement for uliledlimab, we will be eligible to
receive from KG an aggregate amount of up to approximately US$340 million, including an upfront payment and subsequent payments
conditional upon achieving certain development and commercial milestones. KG will pay us tiered royalties in the low to mid-teen
percentages on net sales from the ASEAN and MENA regions, as well as Sri Lanka. In June 2023, we terminated the first negotiation
agreement with KG, pursuant to which, KG no longer has a right of first negotiation for the exclusive right to commercialize uliledlimab
in Southeast Asia and other regions.
C. Collaboration Arrangements
In July 2018, we entered into a collaboration agreement with ABL Bio, further amended in November 2018, May 2019, December
2019, June 2020, September 2021, respectively, whereby both parties agreed to collaborate to develop two bispecific antibodies by using
ABL Bio’s proprietary BsAb technology and commercialize them in their respective territories, which, collectively, include Greater
China and South Korea, and other territories throughout the rest of the world if both parties agree to do so in such other territories during
the performance of the agreement. This agreement may be terminated by either party for the other party’s uncured material breach or in
the event that the other party challenges its patents. Also, if a party encounters insurmountable technical difficulties and risks, which
cannot be resolved by such party within a certain period thereafter despite all reasonable efforts, such party will have the right to
terminate this agreement and will no longer have the right to develop the licensed product. Following the divestiture of the Greater China
assets and business operations and as of the date of this annual report, we have not completed the assignment of the collaboration
agreement with ABL Bio with respect to the two bispecific antibodies.
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In September 2018, we entered into a collaboration and platform technology license agreement with WuXi Biologics Ireland
Limited, or WuXi Biologics, whereby both parties agreed to collaborate in the research and development of at least three bispecific
antibodies for our company to commercialize them worldwide. Such bispecific antibodies will be created using our proprietary
monoclonal antibodies and WuXi Biologics’ proprietary WuXiBody platform technology for generating bispecific antibodies, will be
developed and manufactured through the exclusive service of WuXi Biologics. This agreement may be terminated by either party for the
other party’s uncured material breach, bankruptcy or insolvency. WuXi Biologics has the right to terminate this agreement if we
challenge its patents. We have the right to terminate this agreement if we decide to end the development and commercialization of the
licensed product in the licensed territory due to scientific, technical, or commercial reasons. As of the date of this annual report, we have
made an up-front payment of US$1.0 million to Wuxi Biologics and no milestone payments or royalties are due under this agreement. In
April 2019, we extended our existing partnership with WuXi Biologics (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.. We entered into a long-term, strategic
collaboration agreement with WuXi Biologics (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. to facilitate the development of chemistry, manufacturing and
controls and good manufacturing practice-compliant manufacturing of both clinical and commercial supplies of certain of our
monoclonal and bispecific antibodies and fusion products, leveraging WuXi Biologics’ and its affiliates’ expertise in this area and
supporting our pre-existing collaboration and platform technology license agreement with WuXi Biologics.
In November 2018, we entered into collaboration agreements with Tracon Pharmaceuticals, Inc., or Tracon, whereby we and Tracon
agreed to (i) co-develop our proprietary CD73 antibody, TJD5, and (ii) collaborate to co-develop up to five bispecific antibodies. Both
agreements may be terminated by either party for the other party’s uncured material breach, bankruptcy or insolvency or for other
reasons. In April 2020, Tracon issued a notice of disputes with respect to these agreements. In February 2021, we sent Tracon a notice to
terminate the agreement we entered into with Tracon to co-develop TJD5, which would result in a prespecified termination fee of US$9.0
million owing to Tracon. The disputes were presented to a binding arbitration proceeding under the Rules of Arbitration of the
International Chamber of Commerce before an arbitration tribunal. On April 25, 2023, the arbitration award determined that the
agreement in relation to TJD5 has been terminated for a pre-agreed termination fee of $9.0 million plus interest payable pursuant to the
original agreement, and, therefore Tracon has no rights to share any future economics with I-Mab. The arbitration award completely
denied Tracon’s damages claim of over US$200 million for any breach and awarded no damages to Tracon. The tribunal also confirmed
the termination of the agreement in relation to bispecific antibodies. Based on the arbitration award, I-Mab bears a portion of Tracon’s
legal fees and costs, totaling approximately US$13.5 million. In July 2023, we paid the pre-agreed termination fee in relation to TJD5
and the agreed-upon portion of Tracon’s legal fees and costs to Tracon.
In March 2021, we entered into two collaboration agreements with Complix, an EU-based biotech company, and Affinity, a
Shanghai-based biotech company, respectively, allowing us to access cutting-edge technology platforms to create next generation of
novel and highly differentiated drug candidates, including Cell Penetrating Alphabodies for otherwise intractable intracellular drug
targets and masked antibodies for targeted tumor-site activation. Under the agreement we entered into with Complix, both parties
collaborate to discover, develop and commercialize novel therapeutics for mutually agreed targets based on Complix’s proprietary
technology. Under the agreement we entered into with Affinity, both parties collaborate to develop lead compounds for mutually agreed
targets based on Affinity’s Tumor MicroEnvironment Activated body platform technology. Following the divestiture of the Greater
China assets and business operations and as of the date of this annual report, we are no longer a contracting party of the collaboration
agreement with Affinity and will no longer assume any rights, title, interest and obligations thereof. As of the date of this annual report,
we have not completed the assignment of the collaboration agreement with Complix.
In July 2021, we entered into a collaboration agreement with Immorna, an mRNA biotech company, to discover and develop self-
replicating mRNA for in vivo synthesized therapeutic biologics. In the same month, we entered into a collaboration agreement with neoX
Biotech, an AI-enabled R&D biotech company, to accelerate the R&D process of novel targets and modalities. In March 2023, we
terminated the collaboration agreement with Immorna.
In October 2021, to strengthen our commercial capabilities and support our commercialization transformation, we entered into a
strategic partnership with Sinopharm, pursuant to which, we authorize more than 300 of Sinopharm’s subsidiaries as distributors across
China to support distribution and retail allocation to terminal markets while we lead the overall commercial activities. The partnership
also includes alliance on key projects, to jointly support the commercialization and go-to-market process of our differentiated and novel
products. Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations and as of the date of this annual report, we are no
longer a contracting party of the strategic partnership agreement with Sinopharm and will no longer assume any rights, title, interest and
obligations thereof.
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In November 2021, we entered into a strategic collaboration agreement with Jumpcan, a leading China pharmaceutical company
specialized in and committed to pediatric medicines, for the development, manufacturing and commercialization of our highly
differentiated long-acting recombinant human growth hormone, eftansomatropin alfa (TJ101) in mainland China. Under the collaboration
agreement, we continue to lead the ongoing registrational Phase 3 clinical trial of eftansomatropin alfa in pediatric growth hormone
deficiency. The two companies share costs of manufacturing tech transfer, process optimization and new formulation development. We
are the marketing authorization holder of the product and supply the product at agreed cost to Jumpcan. Jumpcan is responsible for
commercializing the product and developing new indications in collaboration with us in mainland China. We provide clinical,
manufacturing and academic support. According to the collaboration agreement, Jumpcan agreed to make an upfront payment of
RMB224 million to I-Mab and, upon achievement of development, registration and sales milestones, certain milestone payments of up to
RMB1.792 billion, making the non-royalty payments a total of up to RMB2.016 billion. In addition, we and Jumpcan will share profits
generated from commercialization of the product in mainland China on a 50/50 basis, pursuant to which we are entitled to receive tiered
low double-digit royalties on net sales. Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations and as of the date of
this annual report, we have not completed the assignment of the strategic collaboration agreement with Jumpcan with respect to
eftansomatropin alfa (TJ101).
In November 2021, we also entered into a strategic collaboration with Roche Diagnostics, a global leader in in vitro diagnostics
industry, to co-develop companion diagnostics solutions for our innovative pipeline, at the Fourth China International Import Expo in
Shanghai. Under this collaboration, we and Roche Diagnostics jointly develop companion diagnostics solutions for the innovative assets
under development by us to accelerate the research and development process of innovative biologics with cutting-edge diagnosis and
treatment technologies. Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations and as of the date of this annual
report, we are no longer a contracting party of the strategic collaboration with Roche Diagnostics and will no longer assume any rights,
title, interest and obligations thereof.
Competition
Our industry is highly competitive and subject to rapid and significant change. While we believe that our management’s research,
development and commercialization experience provide us with competitive advantages, we face competition from global
biopharmaceutical companies, including specialty pharmaceutical companies, generic drug companies, biologics drug companies,
academic institutions, government agencies and research institutions.
For our Global portfolio drug candidates, we expect to face competition from a broad range of global and local pharmaceutical
companies. Many of our competitors have significantly greater financial, technical and human resources than we have, and mergers and
acquisitions in the biopharmaceutical industry may result in even more resources being concentrated among a smaller number of our
competitors. Our commercial opportunity could be reduced or eliminated if our competitors develop or market products or other novel
therapies that are more effective, safer or less costly than our current or future drug candidates, or obtain regulatory approval for their
products more rapidly than we may obtain approval for our drug candidates.
Intellectual Property
Our success will depend significantly on our ability to obtain and maintain patent and other proprietary protection for our drug
candidates and other commercially important products, technologies, inventions and know-how, as well as on our ability to defend and
enforce our patents including any patent that we have or may issue from our patent applications, preserve the confidentiality of our trade
secrets and operate without infringing the valid and enforceable patents and proprietary rights of other parties.
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As of the date of this annual report, our owned patent portfolio consists of (i) 58 issued patents, including three issued in the U.S.,
three issued in Korea and 52 issued in other jurisdictions; and (ii) 82 pending patent applications, including eight Patent Cooperation
Treaty, or PCT patent applications, seven U.S. patent applications, one PRC patent application and 66 patent applications in other
jurisdictions. Our owned patents and patent applications primarily relate to the drug candidates in our Global portfolio.
Lemzoparlimab
Uliledlimab
As of the date of this annual report, we owned seven PCT patent applications, four of which have entered
national phases including in the United States and additional jurisdictions. We expect that any patents that may
issue under these applications will expire between 2037 and 2044, before taking into account any extension
that may be obtained through patent term extension or adjustment, or term reduction due to filing of terminal
disclaimers.
As of the date of this annual report, we owned five PCT patent applications, two of which have entered
national phases including in the United States, and additional jurisdictions. We expect that any patent that may
issue under these applications will expire between 2038 and 2043, before taking into account any extension
that may be obtained through patent term extension or adjustment, or term reduction due to filing of terminal
disclaimers.
Givastomig (TJ-CD4B) As of the date of this annual report, we co-owned three PCT patent application with ABL Bio Inc., one of
which has entered national phases including in the United States, and additional jurisdictions. We expect that
any patent that may issue under this application will expire between 2040 and 2043, before taking into account
any extension that may be obtained through patent term extension or adjustment, or term reduction due to
filing of terminal disclaimers.
Ragistomig (TJ-L14B) As of the date of this annual report, we co-owned one PCT patent application with ABL Bio Inc., which has
entered national phases including in the PRC, the Europe, the United States and additional jurisdictions. We
expect that any patent that may issue under this application will expire between 2039 and 2044, before taking
into account any extension that may be obtained through patent term extension or adjustment, or term
reduction due to filing of terminal disclaimers.
The term of a patent depends upon the laws of the country in which it is issued. In most jurisdictions, a patent term is 20 years from
the earliest filing date of a non-provisional patent application. Patents relating to inventions are effective for twenty years, utility models
are effective for ten years and designs are effective for fifteen years from the date of application.
In addition to patents, we rely upon unpatented trade secrets and know-how and continuing technological innovation to develop and
maintain our competitive position. However, trade secrets and know-how can be difficult to protect. We seek to protect our proprietary
information, in part, by executing confidentiality agreements with our partners, collaborators, scientific advisors, employees, consultants
and other third parties, and invention assignment agreements with our consultants and employees. We have also executed agreements
requiring assignment of inventions with selected scientific advisors and collaborators. The confidentiality agreements we enter into are
designed to protect our proprietary information and the agreements or clauses requiring assignment of inventions to us are designed to
grant us ownership of technologies that are developed through our relationship with the respective counterparty. We cannot guarantee
that we have entered into such agreements with each party that may have or have had access to our trade secrets or proprietary
technology and processes or that these agreements will afford us adequate protection of our intellectual property and proprietary
information rights. If any of the partners, collaborators, scientific advisors, employees and consultants who are parties to these
agreements breaches or violates the terms of any of these agreements or otherwise discloses our proprietary information, we may not
have adequate remedies for any such breach or violation, and we could lose our trade secrets as a result.
Additionally, as of the date of this annual report, we had (i) two registered trademarks in Hong Kong, 59 registered trademarks in the
PRC, six registered trademarks in the United States, and one trademark application in the PRC; and (ii) seven domain names in Hong
Kong and one domain name in the Cayman Islands.
For more information on these and other risks related to intellectual property, see “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—
Risks Related to Our Intellectual Property.”
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Environmental, Health and Safety Matters
In August 2021, we established an environmental, social and governance (ESG) committee. The committee consists of two
independent directors, Mr. Chun Kwok Alan Au and Dr. Rong Shao. Mr. Chun Kwok Alan Au chairs the committee. As the oversight
body for our ESG practices, the committee is responsible for supervising our ESG strategies, policies, long-term sustainability objectives
and risks. In addition, we also set up an ESG working group to address daily ESG workflows. In May 2022, we published our 2021 ESG
report to summarize highlights and progress of our ESG practices. In February 2023, we were granted “A” rating by MSCI
Environmental, Social and Governance, following its annual review, and such rating outperforms approximately 66% peers among global
biotech companies.
With the current state of business operations, we have no significant environmental impact due to no large-scale manufacturing
operations. We abide by local laws and regulations on environmental protection and only discharge a small amount of waste gas and
wastewater after proper treatment. A small amount of hazardous wastewater produced during the research and development process is
carefully collected and handed over to qualified third-party professionals for proper treatment before discharged to the sewage treatment
plant. A small amount of harmless waste gas is emitted at a high altitude after filtration by activated carbon. Any hazardous waste
generated during the research and development process is carefully collected by laboratory technicians daily and placed in a temporary
storage facility, and transported to qualified professionals once a month, in accordance with strict local environmental guidelines. We
also provided employee trainings, set up standard operation procedures and contingency plans for of potential accidents of
environmental, health and safety.
At present, energy and resources consumed in our daily operations are mainly municipal electricity and domestic water. We assigned
a dedicated team to regularly inspect and maintain the equipment, measure total consumption, and train employees on water and energy
saving measures.
Safety and health are the foundation of our operational activities. We have created a comprehensive internal safety management
system to ensure compliance, strengthen risk assessment and management. In addition, we provide employees with annual physical
check-ups to ensure the health of the employees. We offered standard operation procedures to ensure employees are aware of any
potential hazards, including providing emergency training, treatment facilities, and personal protection equipment to all employees.
Regulation
We are subject to a variety of U.S. and PRC laws, rules and regulations affecting many aspects of our business. This section
summarizes the principal laws and regulations in the U.S. and China that we believe are relevant to our business and operations.
PRC Regulation
We are subject to a variety of PRC laws, rules and regulations affecting many aspects of our business. This section summarizes the
principal PRC laws, rules and regulations that we believe are relevant to our business and operations.
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Regulations on Company Establishment and Foreign Investment
Company Law
The establishment, operation and management of companies in China is governed by the PRC Company Law, the latest amended
edition of which will come into effect on July 1, 2024. In light of the PRC Company Law, companies established in the PRC are either in
the form of a limited liability company or a joint stock company. The PRC Company Law applies to both PRC domestic companies and
foreign-invested companies, unless otherwise provided in the foreign investment laws and regulations.
Foreign Investment Law
On March 15, 2019, the National People’s Congress approved the PRC Foreign Investment Law, which became effective on January
1, 2020. The Foreign Investment Law establishes the basic framework for the access to, and the promotion, protection and administration
of foreign investments in view of investment protection and fair competition. According to the Foreign Investment Law, “foreign
investment” refer to investment activities directly or indirectly conducted by one or more natural persons, business entities, or other
organizations of a foreign country (collectively referred to as “foreign investor”) within China, and “investment activities” include the
following activities: (i) a foreign investor, individually or together with other investors, establishes a foreign-invested enterprise within
China; (ii) a foreign investor acquires stock shares, equity shares, shares in assets, or other similar rights and interests of an enterprise
within China; (iii) a foreign investor, individually or together with other investors, invests in a new construction project within China;
and (iv) investments in other means as provided by the laws, administrative regulations or the State Council.
Regulations Relating to Foreign Investment
On December 26, 2019, the State Council promulgated the Implementation Rules to the Foreign Investment Law, which became
effective on January 1, 2020. The implementation rules further clarified that the state encourages and promotes foreign investment,
protects the lawful rights and interests of foreign investors, regulates foreign investment administration, continues to optimize foreign
investment environment, and advances a higher-level opening.
Furthermore, PRC-based investments by foreign investors are currently regulated by the Special Management Measures (Negative
List) for the Access of Foreign Investment (2021) issued on December 1, 2021 and effective from January 1, 2022, and the Catalogue of
Industries for Encouraging Foreign Investment (2022 Version) issued on October 26, 2022 and effective from January 27, 2023.
According to the aforesaid catalogue and management measures, foreign-invested industries fall into four categories, namely,
“encouraged” “permitted” “restricted” and “prohibited” and certain ownership requirements, requirements for senior executives and
other special management measures should apply to foreign investors with regard to the access of foreign investments in certain
categories.
On December 30, 2019, the Ministry of Commerce and the State Administration for Market Regulation jointly promulgated
Measures for Information Reporting on Foreign Investment, which became effective on January 1, 2020. Pursuant to the Measures for
Information Reporting on Foreign Investment, where a foreign investor carries out investment activities in China directly or indirectly,
the foreign investor or the foreign-invested enterprise should submit the investment information to the competent commerce department.
M&A Rules
According to the Provisions on the Merger or Acquisition of Domestic Enterprises by Foreign Investors jointly issued by the
Ministry of Commerce, the State Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council, the State Administration of
Taxation, the State Administration for Industry and Commerce (now known as the State Administration for Market Regulation), the
China Securities Regulatory Commission and the State Administration of Foreign Exchange, or the SAFE, on August 8, 2006 and
amended by the Ministry of Commerce on June 22, 2009, among other things, (i) the purchase of an equity interest or subscription to the
increase in the registered capital of non-foreign-invested enterprises, (ii) the establishment of foreign-invested enterprises to purchase
and operate the assets of non-foreign-invested enterprises, or (iii) the purchase of the assets of non-foreign-invested enterprises and the
use of such assets to establish foreign-invested enterprises to operate such assets, in each case, by foreign investors is subject to the
Provisions on the Merger or Acquisition of Domestic Enterprises by Foreign Investors. Particularly, application should be made for
examination and approval of the acquisition of any company in China affiliating to a domestic company, enterprise or natural person,
which is made in the name of an oversea company established or controlled by such domestic company, enterprise or natural person.
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PRC Drug Regulation
The Drug Administration Law of the PRC promulgated by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress on September
20, 1984 and effective from July 1, 1985 and amended on February 28, 2001, December 28, 2013, April 24, 2015 and August 26, 2019,
respectively, and the Implementing Measures of the Drug Administration Law promulgated by the State Council on August 4, 2002 and
effective from September 15, 2002 and amended on February 6, 2016 and March 2, 2019, respectively, have jointly established the legal
framework for the administration of pharmaceutical products in China, including the research, development and manufacturing of new
drugs. The Drug Administration Law applies to entities and individuals engaged in the development, production, trade, application,
supervision and administration of pharmaceutical products, which regulates and provides for a framework for the administration of
pharmaceutical manufacturers, pharmaceutical trading companies and medicinal preparations of medical institutions, and the
development, research, manufacturing, distribution, packaging, pricing and advertisements of pharmaceutical products. The
Implementing Measures of the Drug Administration Law, on the other hand, provides detailed implementation regulations for the Drug
Administration Law.
The amendment to the Drug Administration Law in 2019 brought a series of changes to the drug supervision and administration
system, including, but not limited to, the clarification of the drug marketing authorization holder system, pursuant to which the marketing
authorization holder should assume responsibilities for non-clinical studies, clinical trials, manufacturing and marketing, post-marketing
studies, monitoring, reporting and handling of adverse reactions of the drug. The amendment also stipulates that the State supports the
innovation of drugs with clinical value and specific or special effects on human diseases, encourages the development of drugs with new
therapeutic mechanisms and have multi-targeted, systematic regulatory and intervention functions on human body and promotes the
technological advancement of drugs.
Regulatory Authorities
Pharmaceutical products and medical devices and equipment in China are monitored and supervised on a national scale by the
National Medical Products Administration, or the NMPA, while the local provincial medical products administrative authorities are
responsible for the supervision and administration of drugs within their respective administrative regions.
The NMPA is the chief drug regulatory agency and the NMPA regulates almost all of the key stages of the life cycle of
pharmaceutical products, including non-clinical studies, clinical trials, marketing approvals, manufacturing, advertising and promotion,
distribution, and pharmacovigilance (i.e., post-marketing safety reporting obligations). The Center for Drug Evaluation, which remains
under the NMPA, conducts the technical evaluation of each drug and biologic application for safety and effectiveness.
The National Health Commission is China’s chief healthcare regulator. It is primarily responsible for overseeing the operation of
medical institutions, which also serve as clinical trial sites, and regulating the licensure of hospitals and medical personnel. The National
Health Commission plays a significant role in drug reimbursement. Furthermore, the National Health Commission and its local
counterparts at or below provincial-level local governments also oversee and organize public medical institutions’ centralized bidding
and procurement process for pharmaceutical products, which is the chief means through which public hospitals and their internal
pharmacies acquire drugs.
Manufacturing and Distribution
According to the Drug Administration Law, all facilities that manufacture drugs in China must receive a drug manufacturing license
from the local drug regulatory authority. Each drug manufacturing license issued to a pharmaceutical manufacturing enterprise is
effective for a period of five years. Any enterprise holding a drug manufacturing license is subject to review by the regulatory authorities
on an annual basis.
Similarly, for sales, importation, shipping and storage businesses, a company must obtain a Drug Distribution License from the local
drug regulatory authority, subject to renewal every five years.
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China has implemented a “Two-Invoice System” to control the distribution of prescription drugs. The “Two-Invoice System”
generally requires that no more than two invoices be issued throughout the distribution chain: one from the manufacturer to a distributor
and another from the distributor to the end-user hospital. This excludes the sale of products invoiced from the manufacturer to its wholly-
owned or controlled distributors, or for imported drugs, to its exclusive distributor, or from a distributor to its wholly-owned or
controlled subsidiary (or between its wholly-owned or controlled subsidiaries). However, the system still significantly limits the options
for companies to use multiple distributors to reach a larger geographic area in China. Compliance with the Two-Invoice System is a
prerequisite for pharmaceutical companies to participate in the procurement processes of public hospitals, which currently provide most
of China’s healthcare services. Manufacturers and distributors that fail to implement the Two-Invoice System may lose their
qualifications to participate in the bidding process. Non-compliant manufacturers may also be blacklisted from engaging in drug sales to
public hospitals in a locality.
The Two-Invoice System was first implemented in 11 provinces involved in pilot comprehensive medical reforms, and the program
has been expanded to nearly all provinces, each with its own individual rules for the program.
New Drug Application
Pursuant to the Administrative Measures for Drug Registration, upon completion of research and other preparation work, the
applicant may apply to the NMPA for approval of a new drug application. The NMPA will then determine whether to approve the
application according to the comprehensive evaluation opinion issued by the Center for Drug Evaluation of the NMPA.
At the stage of new drug application, depending on the characteristics of the drug and the corresponding conditions, applicants may
apply for adoption of special procedures, including the Priority Review Procedure and the Special Review Procedure. Such procedures
may be applied for innovative drugs for severe infectious diseases or rare diseases, breakthrough drugs and other eligible drugs stipulated
in the Administrative Measures for Drug Registration. Extra policy support, including less review period, may be given to applicants in
such special procedures.
Marketing Authorization Holder System
Pursuant to the Drug Administration Law, under the drug marketing authorization holder mechanism, an enterprise or a research and
development institution, which has obtained a drug registration certificate is eligible to be a drug marketing authorization holder and the
drug marketing authorization holder should be responsible for nonclinical laboratory studies, clinical trials, production and distribution,
post-market studies, and the monitoring, reporting, and handling of adverse reactions in connection with pharmaceuticals in accordance
with the provisions of the Drug Administration Law. The drug marketing authorization holder may engage contract manufacturers for
manufacturing, provided that the contract manufacturers are licensed and may engage pharmaceutical distribution enterprises with drug
distribution license for sales, importation, shipping and storage businesses. Upon the approval of the medical products administrative
department under the State Council, a drug marketing authorization holder may transfer the drug marketing license and the transferee
should have the capability of quality management, risk prevention and control, and liability compensation to ensure the safety,
effectiveness and quality controllability of drugs, and fulfill the obligations of the drug marketing license holder.
Intellectual Property Rights
China became a member of the World Trade Organization and a party to the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual
Property Rights on December 11, 2001. China has also entered into several international conventions on intellectual property rights,
including, but not limited to, the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property, the Madrid Agreement Concerning the
International Registration of Marks, and the Patent Cooperation Treaty.
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Patents
Pursuant to the PRC Patent Law promulgated by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress on March 12, 1984 and
amended on September 4, 1992, August 25, 2000, December 27, 2008 and October 17, 2020, respectively, and the latest revision thereto
became effective from June 1, 2021, and the Implementation Rules of the Patent Law of the PRC promulgated by the State Council on
June 15, 2001 and amended on December 28, 2002 and January 9, 2010 and December 11, 2023, respectively and the latest revision
thereto became effective from January 20, 2024, patents in China fall into three categories: invention, utility model and design. An
invention patent is granted to a new technical solution proposed in respect of a product or method or an improvement of a product or
method. A utility model is granted to a new technical solution that is practicable for application and proposed in respect of the shape,
structure or a combination of both of a product. A design patent is granted to the new design of a certain product in shape, pattern or a
combination of both and in color, shape and pattern combinations aesthetically suitable for industrial application. Under the PRC Patent
Law, the term of patent protection starts from the date of application. Patents relating to invention are effective for twenty years, patents
relating to utility models are effective for ten years, and patents relating to designs are effective for fifteen years, from the date of
application. The PRC Patent Law adopts the principle of “first-to-file” system, which provides that if there is more than one person files
a patent application for the same invention, a patent will be granted to the person who files the application first.
In China, a patent must have novelty, creativity and practical applicability. Under the PRC Patent Law, novelty means that before a
patent application is filed, no identical invention or utility model has been publicly disclosed in any publication in China or overseas or
has been publicly used or made known to the public by any other means, whether in or outside of China, nor has any other person filed
with the patent authority an application that describes an identical invention or utility model and is recorded in patent application
documents or patent documents published after the filing date. Creativity means that, compared with existing technology, an invention
has prominent substantial features and represents notable progress, and a utility model has substantial features and represents any
progress. Practical applicability means an invention or utility model can be manufactured or used and may produce positive results.
Patents in China are filed with the CNIPA. Normally, the CNIPA publishes an application for an invention patent within 18 months after
the filing date, which may be shortened at the request of applicant. The applicant must apply to the CNIPA for a substantive examination
within three years from the date of application.
Article 19 of the PRC Patent Law provides that, for an invention or utility model completed in China, any applicant (not just Chinese
companies and individuals), before filing a patent application outside of China, must first submit it to the CNIPA for a confidential
examination. Any failure to comply with this requirement would result in the denial of any Chinese patent for the invention or utility
model.
Meanwhile, the Patent Law implements a “compensation for patent term” measure. In the event that an invention patent is granted
after the fourth anniversary of the date of application and the third anniversary of the date of the request for substantive examination, the
Patent Administration Department of the State Council should, at the request of the patentee, provide the compensation for patent term
for the unreasonable delay in the process of granting the patent, except for the unreasonable delay caused by the applicant. In particular,
in order to compensate the time taken for the review and approval of new drugs, if the new drug-related invention patents are approved
for marketing in China, the Patent Administration Department of the State Council should provide the compensation for patent term to
the patentee, for the duration of patent rights at the request of the patentee. The compensation for patent term should not exceed five
years, and the total effective patent right period after the new drug is approved for marketing should not exceed fourteen years.
Patent Enforcement
Unauthorized use of patents without consent from owners of patents, forgery of the patents belonging to other persons, or
engagement in other patent infringement acts, will subject the infringers to infringement liability. Serious offenses such as forgery of
patents may be subject to criminal penalties.
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When a dispute arises out of infringement of the patent owner’s patent right, Chinese law requires that the parties first attempt to
settle the dispute through mutual consultation. However, if the dispute cannot be settled through mutual consultation, the patent owner, or
an interested party who believes the patent is being infringed, may either file a civil legal suit or file an administrative complaint with the
patent administration authority. A Chinese court may issue a preliminary injunction upon the patent owner’s or an interested party’s
request before instituting any legal proceedings or during the proceedings. Damages for infringement are calculated as the loss suffered
by the patent holder arising from the infringement, and if the loss suffered by the patent holder arising from the infringement cannot be
determined, the damages for infringement should be calculated as the benefit gained by the infringer from the infringement. If it is
difficult to ascertain damages in this manner, damages may be determined by using a reasonable multiple of the license fee under a
contractual license. Statutory damages may be awarded in the circumstances where the damages cannot be determined by the above-
mentioned calculation standards. The damage calculation methods should be applied in the aforementioned order. Generally, the patent
owner has the burden of proving that the patent is being infringed. However, if the owner of an invention patent for manufacturing
process of a new product alleges infringement of its patent, the alleged infringer has the burden of proof.
Medical Patent Compulsory License
According to the PRC Patent Law, for the purpose of public health, the CNIPA may grant a compulsory license for manufacturing
patented drugs and exporting them to countries or regions covered under international treaties to which the PRC has acceded.
Trade Secrets
Pursuant to the PRC Anti-Unfair Competition Law promulgated by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress on
September 2, 1993 and amended on November 4, 2017 and April 23, 2019, respectively, the term “trade secrets” refers to technical and
business information that is unknown to the public, has utility, may create business interests or profits for its legal owners or holders, and
is maintained as a secret by its legal owners or holders. Under the PRC Anti-Unfair Competition Law, business persons are prohibited
from infringing others’ trade secrets by (1) obtaining the trade secrets from the legal owners or holders by any unfair methods, such as
theft, bribery, fraud, coercion, electronic intrusion, or any other illicit means; (2) disclosing, using or permitting others to use the trade
secrets obtained illegally under item (1) above; (3) disclosing, using or permitting others to use the trade secrets, in violation of any
contractual agreements or any requirements of the legal owners or holders to keep such trade secrets in confidence; or (4) instigating,
inducing or assisting others to disclose, use or permit others to use the trade secrets, in violation of any contractual agreements or any
requirement of the legal owners or holders to keep such trade secret in confidence. If a third party knows or should have known of the
above-mentioned illegal conduct but nevertheless obtains, uses or discloses trade secrets of others, the third party may be deemed to have
committed a misappropriation of the others’ trade secrets. The parties whose trade secrets are being misappropriated may petition for
administrative corrections, and regulatory authorities may terminate any illegal activities and impose fines on the infringing parties.
Regulation of Commercial Bribery
Pharmaceutical companies involved in a criminal investigation or administrative proceedings related to bribery are listed in the
Adverse Records of Commercial Briberies by their respective provincial health and family planning administrative department. Pursuant
to the Provisions on the Establishment of Adverse Records of Commercial Briberies in the Medicine Purchase and Sales Industry which
became effective on March 1, 2014, provincial health and family planning administrative departments formulate the implementing
measures for establishment of Adverse Records of Commercial Briberies. Where a pharmaceutical company or its agent is listed in the
Adverse Records of Commercial Briberies on one occasion, it will be prohibited from participating in the procurement bidding process
or selling its products to public medical institutions located in the local provincial-level region for two years from the publication of the
adverse records. The evaluation points of such pharmaceutical company or agent in respect of the procurement bidding process and
procurement by public medical institutions must be credited by public medical institutions in the other provincial-level regions for two
years from the publication of the adverse records. Where a pharmaceutical company or its agent is listed in the Adverse Records of
Commercial Briberies on two or more occasions within five years, it will be prohibited from participating in the procurement bidding
process or selling its products to all public medical institutions in the PRC for two years from the publication of these adverse records.
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Regulations Relating to Employee Stock Incentive Plan
In February 2012, the SAFE promulgated the Notices on Issues Concerning the Foreign Exchange Administration for Domestic
Individuals Participating in Stock Incentive Plans of Overseas Publicly Listed Companies. In accordance with this regulation and
applicable rules and regulations, PRC citizens or non-PRC citizens residing in China for a continuous period of not less than one year,
who participate in any stock incentive plan of an overseas publicly listed company, subject to a few exceptions, are required to register
with the SAFE through a domestic qualified agent, which could be a PRC subsidiary of such overseas listed company, and complete
certain procedures. We and our employees who are PRC citizens or who reside in China for a continuous period of not less than one year
and who participate in our stock incentive plan will be subject to such regulation. In addition, the State Administration of Taxation has
issued circulars concerning employee share options or restricted shares. Under these circulars, employees working in the PRC who
exercise share options, or whose restricted shares vest, will be subject to PRC individual income tax. The PRC subsidiaries of an
overseas listed company have obligations to file documents related to employee share options or restricted shares with the tax authorities
and to withhold individual income tax of those employees related to their share options or restricted shares. If the employees fail to pay,
or the PRC subsidiaries fail to withhold, their individual income tax according to the laws, rules and regulations, the PRC subsidiaries
may face sanctions imposed by the tax authorities or other PRC government authorities.
Regulations Relating to Foreign Exchange and the Dividend Distribution
Foreign Exchange Control
The State Council promulgated the PRC Regulation for the Foreign Exchange on January 29, 1996, which was amended on
January 14, 1997 and August 5, 2008, respectively. On June 20, 1996, the People’s Bank of China promulgated the Regulation on the
Administration of the Foreign Exchange Settlement, Sales and Payment, which came into effect on July 1, 1996. Pursuant to the above-
mentioned regulations, foreign exchanges required for distribution of profits and payment of dividends may be purchased from
designated foreign exchange banks in the PRC upon presentation of a board resolution authorizing the distribution of profits or payment
of dividends. The Regulation on the Administration of the Foreign Exchange Settlement, Sales and Payment removed the previous
restrictions on convertibility of foreign exchange in respect of current account items, including the distribution of dividends, interest and
royalty payments, trade and service-related foreign exchange transactions, while foreign exchange transactions in respect of capital
account items, such as direct investment, loan, securities investment and repatriation of investment, remain subject to the approval of the
SAFE.
On November 19, 2012, the SAFE issued the Operating Rules for Foreign Exchange Issues with Regard to Direct Investment
under Capital Account as an appendix to the Circular of the SAFE on Further Improving and Adjusting the Foreign Exchange Policies on
Direct Investment, which was issued on November 19, 2012 and amended on May 4, 2015, October 10, 2018 and December 30, 2019,
respectively. According to the Circular of the SAFE on Further Improving and Adjusting the Foreign Exchange Policies on Direct
Investment, (i) the opening of and payment into foreign exchange accounts under direct investment accounts are no longer subject to
approval by the SAFE; (ii) reinvestment with the legal income of foreign investors in China is no longer subject to approval by the
SAFE; (iii) the procedures for capital verification and confirmation that foreign-funded enterprises need to go through are simplified; (iv)
the purchase and external payment of foreign exchange under direct investment accounts are no longer subject to approval by the SAFE;
(v) domestic transfer of foreign exchange under direct investment accounts is no longer subject to approval by the SAFE; and (vi) the
administration over the conversion of foreign exchange capital of foreign-funded enterprises is improved. On February 13, 2015, the
SAFE issued the Circular on Further Simplifying and Improving Foreign Exchange Administration Policies in Respect of Direct
Investment, which came into effect on June 1, 2015 and was amended on December 30, 2019, providing that the banks, instead of the
SAFE, can directly handle the foreign exchange registration and approval under foreign direct investment, while the SAFE and its
branches indirectly supervise the foreign exchange registration and approval under foreign direct investment through the banks.
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On March 30, 2015, the SAFE released the Circular on the Reform of the Management Method for the Settlement of Foreign
Exchange Capital of Foreign-invested Enterprises, which came into effect on June 1, 2015 and was amended on December 30, 2019 and
March 23, 2023, respectively, and superseded the Notice on the Relevant Operating Issues Concerning the Improvement of the
Administration of Payment and Settlement of Foreign Currency Capital of Foreign-funded Enterprises issued by the SAFE on August 29,
2008. The Circular on the Reform of the Management Method for the Settlement of Foreign Exchange Capital of Foreign-invested
Enterprises has made certain adjustments to some regulatory requirements on the settlement of foreign exchange capital of foreign-
invested enterprises, and some foreign exchange restrictions provided in the Notice on the Relevant Operating Issues Concerning the
Improvement of the Administration of Payment and Settlement of Foreign Currency Capital of Foreign-funded Enterprises. On June 9,
2016, the SAFE issued the Circular on the Reform and Standardization of the Management Policy of the Settlement of Capital Projects,
which was amended on December 4, 2023. Under the Circular on the Reform and Standardization of the Management Policy of the
Settlement of Capital Projects and the Circular on the Reform of the Management Method for the Settlement of Foreign Exchange
Capital of Foreign-invested Enterprises, the settlement of foreign exchange by foreign-invested enterprises should be governed by the
policy of foreign exchange settlement on a discretionary basis. However, the aforementioned circulars also reiterate that the settlement of
foreign exchange should only be used for its own operation purposes within the business scope of the foreign-invested enterprises and
following the principles of authenticity.
The SAFE promulgated the Circular on Relevant Issues Concerning Foreign Exchange Control on Domestic Residents’ Offshore
Investment and Financing and Roundtrip Investment through Special Purpose Vehicles on July 4, 2014, which requires PRC residents to
register with local branches of the SAFE in connection with their direct establishment or indirect control of an offshore entity for the
purpose of overseas investment and financing, with such PRC residents’ legally owned assets or equity interests in domestic enterprises
or offshore assets or interests as a “special purpose vehicle” as defined therein. The aforesaid circular further requires amendment to the
registration in the event of any significant changes with respect to the special purpose vehicle. Failure to comply with the SAFE
registration requirements under the Circular on Relevant Issues Concerning Foreign Exchange Control on Domestic Residents’ Offshore
Investment and Financing and Roundtrip Investment through Special Purpose Vehicles could result in liabilities under PRC law for
evasion of foreign exchange controls. The Circular on Further Simplifying and Improving Foreign Exchange Administration Policies in
Respect of Direct Investment, provides that local banks, instead of the SAFE, can directly handle the initial foreign exchange registration
and amendment registration under the Circular on Relevant Issues Concerning Foreign Exchange Control on Domestic Residents’
Offshore Investment and Financing and Roundtrip Investment through Special Purpose Vehicles.
On April 10, 2020, SAFE promulgated the Circular on Optimizing Administration of Foreign Exchange to Support the
Development of Foreign-related Business, which allows eligible enterprises to make domestic payments using their capital funds, foreign
credits and the income under capital accounts of overseas listing, without providing evidentiary materials concerning authenticity of such
capital for banks in advance, provided that their capital use should be authentic and in line with provisions, and conform to the prevailing
administrative regulations on the use of income under capital accounts. The administering bank should perform ex-post sampling in
accordance with the requirements.
Dividend Distribution
Pursuant to the PRC Company Law, the latest amended edition of which will come into effect on July 1, 2024, and the Foreign
Investment Law of the PRC, foreign-invested enterprises in the PRC may pay dividends only out of their accumulated profits as
determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. When a foreign-invested enterprise distributes its after-tax
profit for the year, ten percent of the profit should be set aside as its statutory surplus reserve fund. The company may no longer do so if
its cumulative statutory surplus reserve accounts for more than fifty percent of its registered capital. If the company’s statutory surplus
reserve is insufficient to make up for the losses of previous years, the company shall use the current year’s profit to make up for the
losses before the set-aside of the statutory surplus reserve. After the company has set aside a part of its after-tax profit as its statutory
surplus reserve, it may also set aside a part of its after-tax profit as its discretionary reserve. Distributions can be made to shareholders
only after the remaining after-tax profit have made up for losses and the surplus reserve has been set aside.
On January 26, 2017, the SAFE issued the Notice on Improving the Check of Authenticity and Compliance to Further Promote
Foreign Exchange Control, which stipulates several capital control measures with respect to outbound remittance of profits from
domestic entities to offshore entities, including the following: (i) under the principle of genuine transaction, banks should check board
resolutions regarding profit distribution, the original version of tax filing records and audited financial statements; and (ii) domestic
entities should hold income to account for previous years’ losses before remitting the profits. Moreover, domestic entities should provide
detailed explanations of the sources of capital and the utilization arrangements and board resolutions, contracts and other proof when
completing the registration procedures in connection with an outbound investment.
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Regulations Relating to Enterprise Income Tax
Pursuant to the Enterprise Income Tax Law of the PRC effective as of January 1, 2008 and as amended on February 24, 2017 and
December 29, 2018, respectively, the income tax rate for both domestic and foreign-invested enterprises is 25% with certain exceptions.
To clarify certain provisions in the Enterprise Income Tax Law, the State Council promulgated the Implementation Rules of the
Enterprise Income Tax Law on December 6, 2007, which was amended and became effective on April 23, 2019. Under the Enterprise
Income Tax Law and the Implementation Rules of the Enterprise Income Tax Law, enterprises are classified as either “resident
enterprises” or “non-resident enterprises.” Besides enterprises established within the PRC, enterprises established outside of China whose
“de facto management bodies” are located in China are considered “resident enterprises” and subject to the uniform 25% enterprise
income tax rate for their global income. In addition, the Enterprise Income Tax Law provides that a non-resident enterprise refers to an
entity established under foreign law whose “de facto management bodies” are not within the PRC, but has an establishment or place of
business in the PRC, or does not have an establishment or place of business in the PRC but has income sourced within the PRC.
The Implementation Rules of the Enterprise Income Tax Law provide that since January 1, 2008, an income tax rate of 10% should
normally be applicable to dividends declared to non-PRC resident enterprise investors that do not have an establishment or place of
business in the PRC, or have an establishment or place of business but the income is not effectively connected with the establishment or
place of business, to the extent such dividends are derived from sources within the PRC. The income tax on the dividends may be
reduced pursuant to a tax treaty between China and the jurisdictions in which the non-PRC shareholders reside.
Other PRC National- and Provincial-Level Laws and Regulations
We are subject to changing regulations under many other laws and regulations administered by governmental authorities at the
national, provincial and municipal levels, some of which are or may become applicable to our business. For example, regulations control
the confidentiality of patients’ medical information and the circumstances under which patient medical information may be released for
inclusion in our databases, or released by us to third parties. These laws and regulations governing both the disclosure and the use of
confidential patient medical information may become more restrictive in the future.
We also comply with numerous additional national and provincial laws relating to matters such as safe working conditions,
manufacturing practices, environmental protection and fire hazard control. We believe that we are currently in compliance with these
laws and regulations; however, we may be required to incur significant costs to comply with these laws and regulations in the future.
Unanticipated changes in existing regulatory requirements or adoption of new requirements could therefore have a material adverse
effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
U.S. Regulation
Government Regulation and Product Approval in the United States
The FDA and other regulatory authorities in the United States at federal, state and local levels, as well as in foreign countries,
extensively regulate, among other things, the research, development, testing, manufacture, quality control, import, export, safety,
effectiveness, labeling, packaging, storage, distribution, recordkeeping, approval, advertising, promotion, marketing, post-approval
monitoring and post-approval reporting of biological products. Along with third-party contractors, we are required to navigate the
various pre-clinical, clinical and commercial approval requirements of the governing regulatory agencies of the countries in which we
wish to conduct studies or seek approval or licensure of our drug candidates. The processes for obtaining regulatory approvals in the
United States and in foreign jurisdictions, along with subsequent compliance with applicable laws and regulations and other regulatory
authorities, require the expenditure of substantial time and financial resources.
Government policies may change and additional government regulations may be enacted that could prevent or delay further
development or regulatory approval of any of our drug candidates, or anticipated manufacturing processes, disease indications, or
labeling. We cannot predict the likelihood, nature or extent of government regulation that might arise from future legislative or
administrative action.
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Review and Approval for Licensing Biologics in the United States
In the United States, the FDA regulates our current drug candidates as biological products, or biologics, under the Federal Food,
Drug, and Cosmetic Act, or the FDCA, the Public Health Service Act and associated implementing regulations. Biologics, like other
drugs, are used for the treatment, prevention or cure of disease in humans. In contrast to chemically synthesized small molecular weight
drugs, which have a well-defined structure and can be thoroughly characterized, biologics are generally derived from living material
(human, animal, or microorganism) and are complex in structure, and thus are usually not fully characterized. Biologics include
immunomedicines for cancer and other diseases.
Biologics are also subject to other federal, state and local statutes and regulations. The failure to comply with applicable statutory
and regulatory requirements at any time during the product development process, approval process or after approval may subject a
sponsor or applicant to administrative or judicial enforcement actions. These actions could include the suspension or termination of
clinical trials by the FDA, the FDA’s refusal to approve pending applications or supplemental applications, withdrawal of an approval,
“Warning Letters” (official messages from the FDA to a manufacturer or other organization that it has violated some rule in a federally
regulated activity) or “Untitled Letters” (initial correspondences from the FDA with a regulated industry that cite violations that do not
meet the threshold of regulatory significance for a Warning Letter and request correction of the violation), product recalls, product
seizures, total or partial suspension of production or distribution, import detention, injunctions, fines, refusals of government contracts,
restitution, disgorgement of profits, or civil or criminal investigations and penalties brought by the FDA, the Department of Justice, or
other governmental entities.
An applicant seeking approval to market and distribute a biologic in the United States typically must undertake the following:
● completion of non-clinical laboratory tests and animal studies performed in accordance with the FDA’s good laboratory practice
regulations;
● submission to the FDA of an application for an Investigational New Drug, or an IND, which must become effective before
clinical trials may begin and must be updated annually or when significant changes are made;
● manufacture, labeling and distribution of an investigational drug in compliance with current good manufacturing practice;
● approval by an independent institutional review board or ethics committee at each clinical site before each clinical trial may be
initiated;
● performance of adequate and well-controlled human clinical trials in accordance with the FDA’s current Good Clinical Practices
requirements, to establish the safety, purity and potency of the proposed biological drug candidate for its intended purpose;
● preparation of and submission to the FDA of a biologics license application, after completion of all pivotal clinical trials
requesting marketing approval for one or more proposed indications;
● satisfactory completion of an FDA Advisory Committee review, where appropriate or if applicable, as may be requested by the
FDA to assist with its review;
● satisfactory completion of one or more FDA inspections of the manufacturing facility or facilities at which the proposed
product, or components thereof, are produced to assess compliance with current good manufacturing practice and data integrity
requirements to assure that the facilities, methods and controls are adequate to preserve the biologic’s identity, safety, quality,
purity and potency;
● satisfactory completion of FDA audits of selected clinical investigation sites to assure compliance with current Good Clinical
Practices requirements and the integrity of the clinical data;
● payment of user fees under the Prescription Drug User Fee Act for the relevant year;
● obtaining FDA review and approval of the biologics license application to permit commercial marketing of the licensed
biologic for particular indications for use in the United States; and
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● compliance with any post-approval requirements, including the potential requirement to implement a Risk Evaluation and
Mitigation Strategy, and the potential requirement to conduct post-approval studies.
The testing and approval process requires substantial time, effort and financial resources and we cannot be certain that any approvals
for our drug candidates will be granted on a timely basis, if at all.
From time to time, legislation is drafted, introduced and passed in the Congress of the United States that could significantly change
the statutory provisions governing the testing, approval, manufacturing and marketing of products regulated by the FDA. In addition to
new legislation, FDA regulations and policies are often revised or interpreted by the agency in ways that may significantly affect our
business and our drug candidates. It is impossible to predict whether further legislative changes will be enacted or whether FDA
regulations, guidance, policies or interpretations will be changed or what the effect of such changes, if any, may be.
Preclinical and Clinical Development in the United States
Before an applicant of a biologics license application can begin testing the potential asset in human subjects, the applicant must first
conduct pre-clinical studies. Pre-clinical studies include laboratory evaluations of product chemistry, toxicity and formulation, as well as
in vitro and animal studies to assess the potential safety and activity of the biologic for initial testing in humans and to establish a
rationale for therapeutic use. Pre-clinical studies are subject to federal regulations and requirements, including good laboratory practice
regulations. The results of an applicant’s pre-clinical studies are submitted to the FDA as part of an IND.
An IND is a request for authorization from the FDA to administer an investigational new drug product to humans. An IND is an
exemption from the FDCA that allows an unapproved drug to be shipped in interstate commerce for use in an investigational clinical
trial. Such authorization must be secured prior to interstate shipment. In support of a request for an IND, applicants must submit a range
of information, including pre-clinical data, manufacturing information and a detailed protocol for each clinical trial. Any subsequent
protocol amendments must be submitted to the FDA as part of the IND.
Human clinical trials may not begin until an IND is effective. The IND automatically becomes effective 30 days after receipt by the
FDA, unless the FDA raises safety concerns or questions about the proposed clinical trial within the 30-day time period. In such a case,
the IND may be placed on clinical hold and the IND sponsor and the FDA must resolve any outstanding concerns or questions before the
clinical trial can begin. Submission of an IND therefore may or may not result in FDA authorization to begin a clinical trial.
The FDA may also place a clinical hold or partial clinical hold on such trial following commencement of a clinical trial under an
IND. A clinical hold is an order issued by the FDA to the sponsor to delay a proposed clinical investigation or to suspend an ongoing
investigation. A partial clinical hold is a delay or suspension of only part of the clinical work requested under the IND. For example, a
specific protocol or part of a protocol is not allowed to proceed, while other protocols may do so. No more than 30 days after the
imposition of a clinical hold or partial clinical hold, the FDA will provide the sponsor with a written explanation of the basis for the hold.
Following issuance of a clinical hold or partial clinical hold, an investigation may only resume after the FDA has notified the sponsor
that the investigation may proceed. The FDA will base that determination on information provided by the sponsor correcting the
deficiencies previously cited or otherwise satisfying the FDA that the investigation can proceed.
Clinical trials involve the administration of the investigational product to human subjects under the supervision of qualified
investigators in accordance with regulations of current Good Clinical Practices, which include the requirement that all research subjects
provide their informed consent for their participation in any clinical study. Clinical trials are conducted under protocols detailing, among
other things, the objectives of the study, the parameters to be used in monitoring safety and the effectiveness criteria to be evaluated. A
separate submission to the existing IND must be made for each successive clinical trial conducted during product development and for
any subsequent protocol amendments.
A sponsor may choose, but is not required, to conduct a foreign clinical study under an IND. When a foreign clinical study is
conducted under an IND, all FDA IND requirements must be met unless waived. When the foreign clinical study is not conducted under
an IND, the sponsor must ensure that the study complies with regulations of current Good Clinical Practices in order to use the study as
support for an IND or application for marketing approval, including review and approval by an independent ethics committee and
informed consent from subjects.
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Furthermore, an independent institutional review board for each site proposing to conduct the clinical trial must review and approve
the plan for any clinical trial and its informed consent form before the clinical trial begins at that site, and must monitor the study until
completed. Regulatory authorities, the institutional review board or the sponsor may suspend a clinical trial at any time on various
grounds, including a finding that the subjects are being exposed to an unacceptable health risk or that the trial is unlikely to meet its
stated objectives.
Some trials also include oversight by an independent group of qualified experts organized by the clinical trial sponsor, known as a
data safety monitoring board. Data safety monitoring boards provide authorization for whether or not a trial may move forward at
designated check points based on access to certain data from the trial and may halt the clinical trial if a data safety monitoring board
determines that there is an unacceptable safety risk for subjects or based on other grounds, such as no demonstration of efficacy. Other
grounds for suspension or termination may be made based on evolving business objectives and/or competitive climate. There are also
requirements governing the reporting of ongoing clinical trials and clinical trial results to public registries.
Clinical Trials
For purposes of approval of biologics license application, clinical trials are typically conducted in the following sequential phases
that may overlap or be combined:
● Phase 1: The investigational product is initially introduced into a small number of healthy human subjects or patients with the
target disease or condition. These trials are designed to test the safety, dosage tolerance, absorption, metabolism and distribution
of the investigational product in humans and the side effects associated with increasing doses. These trials may also yield early
evidence of effectiveness. In the case of some products for severe or life-threatening diseases, especially when the product is
suspected or known to be unavoidably toxic, the initial human testing may be conducted in patients.
● Phase 2: The investigational product is administered to a limited patient population with a specified disease or condition to
evaluate the preliminary efficacy, optimal dosages and dosing schedule and to identify possible adverse side effects and safety
risks. Multiple Phase 2 clinical trials may be conducted to obtain information prior to beginning larger and more expensive
Phase 3 clinical trials.
● Phase 3: The investigational product is administered to an expanded patient population generally at multiple geographically
dispersed clinical trial sites to further evaluate dosage, to provide statistically significant evidence of clinical efficacy and to
further test for safety. These clinical trials are intended to generate sufficient data to statistically evaluate the efficacy and safety
of the product for approval, to establish the overall risk/benefit ratio of the investigational product and to provide an adequate
basis for product approval by the FDA.
In some cases, the FDA may require, or companies may voluntarily pursue, additional clinical trials after a product is approved to
gain more information about the product, referred to as Phase 4 trials. Such post-approval trials, when applicable, are conducted
following initial approval, typically to develop additional data and information relating to the biological characteristics of the product and
treatment of patients in the intended therapeutic indication.
Progress reports detailing the results of the clinical trials must be submitted at least annually to the FDA and more frequently if
serious adverse events occur. In addition, IND safety reports must be submitted to the FDA for any of the following: suspected serious
and unexpected adverse reactions; findings from epidemiological studies, pooled analysis of multiple studies, animal or in vitro testing,
or other clinical studies, whether or not conducted under an IND, and whether or not conducted by the sponsor, that suggest a significant
risk in humans exposed to the drug; and any clinically important increase in the rate of a serious suspected adverse reaction over such
rate listed in the protocol or investigator brochure, which is a comprehensive document summarizing the body of information about an
investigational product obtained during clinical and non-clinical trials.
Each of Phase 1, Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical trials may not be completed successfully within any specified period, or at all.
Furthermore, the FDA or the sponsor may suspend or terminate a clinical trial at any time on various grounds, including a finding that
the research patients are being exposed to an unacceptable health risk. Similarly, an independent institutional review board can suspend
or terminate approval of a clinical trial at its institution, or an institution it represents, if the clinical trial is not being conducted in
accordance with the institutional review board’s requirements or if the drug has been associated with unexpected serious harm to
patients. The FDA will typically inspect one or more clinical sites to assure compliance with current Good Clinical Practices and the
integrity of the clinical data submitted.
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During clinical development, the sponsor often refines the indication and endpoints on which the biologics license application will
be based. For endpoints based on patient-reported outcomes, and observer-reported outcomes, the process typically is an iterative one.
The FDA has issued guidance on the framework it uses to evaluate patient-reported outcomes instruments. Although the agency may
offer advice on optimizing instruments for patient-reported outcomes and observer-reported outcomes during the clinical development
process, the FDA usually reserves final judgment until it reviews the biologics license application.
Concurrent with clinical trials, companies often complete additional animal studies, and develop additional information about the
chemistry and physical characteristics of the drug and finalize a process for manufacturing the product in commercial quantities in
accordance with requirements of Good Manufacturing Practice. The manufacturing process must be capable of consistently producing
quality batches of the drug candidate and, among other things, must develop methods for testing the identity, strength, quality, purity and
potency of the final drug. Additionally, appropriate packaging must be selected and tested and stability studies must be conducted to
demonstrate that the drug candidate does not undergo unacceptable deterioration over its shelf life.
BLA Submission and Review
Assuming successful completion of all required clinical testing in accordance with all applicable regulatory requirements, an
applicant may submit a biologics license application, or BLA, requesting licensing to market the biologic for one or more indications in
the United States. The BLA must include the results of product development, non-clinical studies and clinical trials; detailed information
on the product’s chemistry, manufacture and controls; and proposed labeling. Under the Prescription Drug User Fee Amendments, a BLA
submission is subject to an application user fee, unless a waiver or exemption applies.
The FDA will initially review the BLA for completeness before accepting it for filing. Under the FDA’s procedures, the agency has
60 days from its receipt of a BLA to determine whether the application will be accepted for filing and substantive review. If the agency
determines that the application does not meet this initial threshold standard, the FDA may refuse to file the application and request
additional information, in which case the application must be resubmitted with the requested information and review of the application
delayed.
With certain exceptions, BLAs must include a pediatric assessment, generally based on clinical trial data, of the safety and
effectiveness of the biologic in relevant pediatric populations. Under certain circumstances, the FDA may waive or defer the requirement
for a pediatric assessment, either at the sponsor’s request or by the agency’s initiative.
After the BLA is accepted for filing, the FDA reviews the BLA to determine, among other things, whether a product is safe, pure
and potent and if the facility in which it is manufactured, processed, packed or held meets standards designed to assure the product’s
continued identity, strength, quality, safety, purity and potency. The FDA may convene an advisory committee to provide clinical insight
on application review questions. Before approving a BLA, the FDA will typically inspect the facility or facilities where the product is
manufactured. The FDA will not approve an application unless it determines that the manufacturing processes and facilities comply with
current Good Manufacturing Practice and are adequate to assure consistent production of the product within required specifications. In
addition, the FDA expects that all data be reliable and accurate, and requires sponsors to implement meaningful and effective strategies
to manage data integrity risks. Data integrity is an important component of the sponsor’s responsibility to ensure the safety, efficacy and
quality of its product or products.
The FDA will typically inspect one or more clinical sites to assure compliance with regulations of current Good Clinical Practices
before approving a BLA. If the FDA determines that the application, manufacturing process or manufacturing facilities are not
acceptable, it will outline the deficiencies in the submission and often will request additional testing or information. Notwithstanding the
submission of any requested additional information, the FDA ultimately may decide that the application does not satisfy the regulatory
criteria for approval.
FDA performance goals generally provide for action on a BLA within ten months of filing, which typically occurs within 60 days of
submission, but that deadline is extended in certain circumstances. Furthermore, the review process is often significantly extended by
FDA requests for additional information or clarification.
The FDA may refer applications for novel products or products that present difficult questions of safety or efficacy to an advisory
committee. Typically, an advisory committee consists of a panel that includes clinicians and other experts who will review, evaluate and
provide a recommendation as to whether the application should be approved and, if so, under what conditions. The FDA is not bound by
the recommendations of an advisory committee, but it considers such recommendations carefully when making decisions and usually has
followed such recommendations.
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After the FDA evaluates a BLA and conducts inspections of manufacturing facilities where the investigational product and/or its
components will be produced, the FDA may issue an approval letter or a complete response letter. An approval letter authorizes
commercial marketing of the biologic with specific prescribing information for specific indications. A complete response letter will
describe all of the deficiencies that the FDA has identified in the BLA, except that where the FDA determines that the data supporting
the application are inadequate to support approval, the FDA may issue the complete response letter without first conducting required
inspections, testing submitted product lots and/or reviewing proposed labeling. If and when the deficiencies have been addressed to the
FDA’s satisfaction in a resubmission of the BLA, the FDA will issue an approval letter. In issuing the complete response letter, the FDA
may recommend actions that the applicant might take to place the BLA in condition for approval, including requests for additional data,
information or clarification. The FDA may delay or refuse approval of a BLA if applicable regulatory criteria are not satisfied, and may
require additional testing or information and/or require post-marketing studies and clinical trials. Even with submission of this additional
information, the FDA ultimately may decide that the application does not satisfy the regulatory criteria for approval.
During the approval process, the FDA will determine whether a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy, or REMS, is necessary to
assure the safe use of the biologic. A REMS is a safety strategy to manage a known or potential serious risk associated with a product
and to enable patients to have continued access to such medicines by managing their safe use, and could include medication guides,
physician communication plans or elements to assure safe use, such as restricted distribution methods, patient registries and other risk
minimization tools. If the FDA concludes that a REMS is needed, the BLA sponsor must submit a proposed REMS and the FDA will not
approve the BLA without a REMS that the agency has determined is acceptable.
In addition, under the Pediatric Research Equity Act of 2003, as amended and reauthorized, certain applications or supplements must
contain data that are adequate to assess the safety and effectiveness of the drug for the claimed indications in all relevant pediatric
subpopulations, and to support dosing and administration for each pediatric subpopulation for which the product is safe and effective.
The FDA may, on its own initiative or at the request of the applicant, grant deferrals for submission of some or all pediatric data until
after approval of the product for use in adults, or full or partial waivers from the pediatric data requirements.
If the FDA approves a product, it may limit the approved indications for use for the product, or require that contraindications,
warnings or precautions be included in the product labeling. The FDA may also require that post-approval studies, including Phase 4
clinical trials, be conducted to further assess the drug’s safety after approval. The FDA may prevent or limit further marketing of a
product based on the results of post-marketing studies or surveillance programs.
The FDA may also require testing and surveillance programs to monitor the product after commercialization. For biologics, such
testing may include official lot release, which requires the manufacturer to perform certain tests on each lot of the product before it is
released for distribution. The manufacturer then typically must submit samples of each lot of product to the FDA, together with a release
protocol showing a summary of the history of manufacture of the lot and the results of all of the manufacturer’s tests performed on the
lot. The FDA may also perform certain confirmatory tests on lots of some products itself, before releasing the lots for distribution by the
manufacturer.
After approval, many types of changes to the approved product, such as adding new indications, manufacturing changes and
additional labeling claims, are often subject to further testing requirements and FDA review and approval, depending on the nature of the
post-approval change. The FDA may withdraw the product approval if compliance with pre- and post-marketing requirements is not
maintained or if problems occur after the product reaches the marketplace.
Post-Approval Requirements
Any products manufactured or distributed pursuant to FDA approvals are subject to pervasive and continuing regulation by the
FDA, including, among other things, requirements relating to recordkeeping, periodic reporting, reporting of certain deviations and
adverse experiences, product sampling and distribution and advertising and promotion of the product. After approval, most changes to
the approved product, such as adding new indications or other labeling claims, are subject to FDA review and approval. There also are
continuing user fee requirements, under which the FDA assesses an annual program fee for each product identified in an approved BLA.
Biologic manufacturers and their third-party contractors are required to register their establishments with the FDA and certain state
agencies. These establishments are subject to routine and periodic unannounced inspections by the FDA and certain state agencies for
compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practice and data integrity requirements, which impose certain procedural and
documentation requirements to assure quality of manufacturing and product. The FDA has increasingly observed cGMP violations
involving data integrity during site inspections and investigating compliance with data integrity requirements is a significant focus of its
oversight. Requirements with respect to data integrity include, among other things, controls to ensure data are complete and secure;
activities documented at the time of performance; audit trail functionality; authorized access and limitations; validated computer systems;
and review of records for accuracy, completeness and compliance with established standards.
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Post-approval changes to the manufacturing process are strictly regulated, and, depending on the significance of the change, may
require FDA approval before being implemented. FDA regulations also require investigation and correction of any deviations from
current good manufacturing practice and impose reporting requirements upon us and any third-party manufacturers that we may decide
to use. Accordingly, manufacturers must continue to expend time, money and effort in the area of production and quality control to
maintain compliance with current good manufacturing practice, data integrity, pharmacovigilance (i.e., post-marketing safety reporting
obligations) and other aspects of regulatory compliance.
The FDA may withdraw a product approval if compliance with regulatory requirements and standards is not maintained or if
problems occur after the product reaches the market. Later discovery of previously unknown problems with a product, including adverse
events of unanticipated severity or frequency, or with manufacturing processes, or failure to comply with regulatory requirements, may
result in revisions to the approved labeling to add new safety information; imposition of post-approval studies or clinical trials to assess
new safety risks; or imposition of distribution or other restrictions under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy. Other potential
consequences include:
● restrictions on the marketing or manufacturing of a product, complete withdrawal of the product from the market or product
recalls;
● fines, Warning Letters, Untitled Letters or holds on post-approval clinical studies;
● refusal of the FDA to approve pending applications or supplements to approved applications, or suspension or revocation of
existing product approvals;
● product seizure or detention, or refusal of the FDA to permit the import or export of products that it believes present safety
problems by issuing an Import Alert;
● permanent injunctions and consent decrees, including the imposition of civil or criminal penalties; or
● voluntary product recall.
The FDA strictly regulates the marketing, labeling, advertising and promotion of prescription drug products placed on the market. A
company can make only those claims relating to safety and efficacy, purity and potency that are approved by the FDA and in accordance
with the provisions of the approved label. The FDA’s regulation includes, among other things, standards and regulations for direct-to-
consumer advertising, communications regarding unapproved uses, industry-sponsored scientific and educational activities and
promotional activities involving the Internet and social media. Promotional claims relating to a product’s safety or effectiveness are
prohibited before the drug is approved. After approval, a product generally may not be promoted for uses that are not approved by the
FDA, as reflected in the product’s prescribing information. In the United States, healthcare professionals are generally permitted to
prescribe drugs for such uses not described in the drug’s labeling, known as off-label uses, because the FDA does not regulate the
practice of medicine. However, FDA regulations impose rigorous restrictions on manufacturers’ communications, prohibiting the
promotion of off-label uses. It may be permissible, under very specific, narrow conditions, for a manufacturer to engage in non-
promotional, non-misleading communication regarding off-label information, such as distributing scientific or medical journal
information.
If a company is found to have promoted off-label uses, it may become subject to adverse public relations and administrative and
judicial enforcement by the FDA, the U.S. Department of Justice or the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Health and
Human Services, as well as other federal and state authorities. This could subject a company to a range of penalties that could have a
significant commercial impact, including civil and criminal fines and agreements that materially restrict the manner in which a company
promotes or distributes products. The federal government has levied large civil and criminal fines against companies for alleged
improper promotion, and has also requested that companies enter into consent decrees and permanent injunctions under which specified
promotional conduct is changed or curtailed.
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The distribution of prescription drugs and biologics are subject to the Drug Supply Chain Security Act, which requires
manufacturers and other stakeholders to comply with product identification, tracing, verification, detection and response, notification and
licensing requirements. In addition, the Prescription Drug Marketing Act, and its implementing regulations, and state laws limit the
distribution of prescription pharmaceutical product samples, and the Drug Supply Chain Security Act imposes requirements to ensure
accountability in distribution and to identify and remove prescription drug and biological products that may be counterfeit, stolen,
contaminated, or otherwise harmful from the market.
Patent Term Restoration and Marketing Exclusivity
After approval, owners of drug or biological product patents may apply for up to a five-year patent extension to restore a portion of
patent term lost during product development and FDA review of a BLA if approval of the application is the first permitted commercial
marketing or use of a biologic containing the active ingredient under the Drug Price Competition and Patent Term Restoration Act of
1984, referred to as the Hatch-Waxman Act. The allowable patent term extension is calculated as one-half of the product’s testing phase,
which is the time between IND and BLA submission, and all of the review phase, which is the time between BLA submission and
approval, up to a maximum of five years. The time can be shortened if the FDA determines that the applicant did not pursue approval
with due diligence. The total patent term after the extension may not exceed more than 14 years from the date of FDA approval of the
product. Only one patent claiming each approved product is eligible for restoration and the patent holder must apply for restoration
within 60 days of approval. The United States Patent and Trademark Office, in consultation with the FDA, reviews and approves the
application for patent term restoration.
For patents that might expire during the application phase, the patent owner may request an interim patent extension. An interim
patent extension increases the patent term by one year and may be renewed up to four times. For each interim patent extension granted,
the post-approval patent extension is reduced by one year. The director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office must determine
that approval of the drug candidate covered by the patent for which a patent extension is being sought is likely. Interim patent extensions
are not available for a drug candidate for which a BLA has not been submitted.
Expedited Development and Review Programs
The FDA is required to facilitate the development and expedite the review of pharmaceutical products that are intended for the
treatment of a serious or life-threatening condition for which there is no effective treatment and which demonstrate the potential to
address unmet medical need for the condition. Under the fast track program, the sponsor of a new drug candidate may request the FDA to
designate the product for a specific indication as a fast track product concurrent with or after the filing of the IND for the drug candidate.
The FDA must determine if the drug candidate qualifies for fast track designation within 60 days after receipt of the sponsor’s request.
In addition to other benefits, such as the ability to have more frequent interactions with the FDA, the agency may initiate review of
sections of a fast track product’s BLA before the application is complete. This rolling review is available if the applicant provides and the
FDA approves a schedule for the submission of the remaining information and the applicant pays applicable user fees. However, the
FDA’s review period under the Prescription Drug User Fee Amendments for a fast track application does not begin until the last section
of the BLA is submitted. In addition, the fast track designation may be withdrawn by the FDA if the agency believes that the designation
is no longer supported by data emerging in the clinical trial process.
Healthcare Regulation
Pharmaceutical Coverage and Reimbursement
Significant uncertainty exists as to the coverage and reimbursement status of any products for which we may obtain regulatory
approval. In the United States, sales of any products for which we may receive regulatory approval for commercial sale will depend in
part on the availability of coverage and reimbursement from third-party payors. Third-party payors include government authorities,
managed care providers, private health insurers and other organizations. Third-party payors establish the coverage and reimbursement
policies for pharmaceutical products, and the marketability of any products for which we may receive regulatory approval for
commercial sale depends on those payors’ coverage policies and reimbursement rates. Third-party payors may limit coverage to specific
products on an approved list, or formulary, which might not include one or more of our drug candidates, if approved. Third-party payors,
together with regulators and others, are increasingly challenging the prices charged for pharmaceutical products and health services, in
addition to their cost-effectiveness, safety and efficacy.
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In addition, no uniform policy for coverage and reimbursement exists in the United States. Third-party payors often rely upon
Medicare coverage policy and payment limitations in setting their own coverage and reimbursement policies, but also have their own
methods and approval process apart from Medicare determinations. Therefore, coverage and reimbursement rates can vary significantly
from payor to payor.
Moreover, obtaining coverage and adequate reimbursement is a time-consuming and costly process. We may be required to provide
scientific and clinical support for the use of any product to each third-party payor separately with no assurance that approval will be
obtained, and we may need to conduct expensive pharmacoeconomic studies in order to demonstrate the cost-effectiveness of our
products. We cannot be certain that our drug candidates will be considered cost-effective by third-party payors. This process could delay
the market acceptance of any drug candidates for which we may receive approval and could have a negative effect on our future revenues
and operating results.
Other U.S. Healthcare Laws and Compliance Requirements
In the United States, our business may be subject to healthcare fraud and abuse regulation and enforcement by both the federal
government and the states in which we conduct our business, particularly once third-party reimbursement becomes available for one or
more of our products. The healthcare fraud and abuse laws and regulations that may affect our ability to operate include, but are not
limited to:
● The federal Anti-Kickback Statute, which prohibits, among other things, knowingly and willfully soliciting, receiving, offering
or paying any remuneration (including any kickback, bribe or rebate), directly or indirectly, overtly or covertly, in cash or in
kind, to induce, or in return for, either the referral of an individual, or the purchase, lease, order or recommendation of any
good, facility, item or service for which payment may be made, in whole or in part, under the Medicare and Medicaid programs,
or other federal healthcare programs;
● The federal civil and criminal false claims laws and civil monetary penalty laws, including the civil False Claims Act, which
prohibits, among other things, knowingly presenting, or causing to be presented, claims for payment of government funds that
are false or fraudulent, or knowingly making, or using or causing to be made or used, a false record or statement material to a
false or fraudulent claim to avoid, decrease, or conceal an obligation to pay money to the federal government;
● The federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, which, among other things, prohibits executing a
scheme to defraud any healthcare benefit program, including private third-party payors, and prohibits (i) knowingly and
willfully falsifying, concealing or covering up a material fact or making any materially false, fictitious or fraudulent statement
or representation and (ii) making or using any false writing or document knowing the same to contain any materially false,
fictitious or fraudulent statement or entry in connection with the delivery of or payment for healthcare benefits, items or
services;
● The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, as amended by the Health Information Technology for
Economic and Clinical Health Act of 2009, and their respective implementing regulations, which impose requirements relating
to the privacy, security and transmission of individually identifiable health information held by covered entities, including
health plans, healthcare clearinghouses and certain healthcare providers, and their business associates, individuals or entities
that perform certain services on behalf of a covered entity that involve the use or disclosure of individually identifiable health
information. The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act of 2009 also created new tiers of civil
monetary penalties, amended Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 to make civil and criminal penalties
directly applicable to business associates and gave state attorneys general new authority to file civil actions for damages or
injunctions in federal courts to enforce the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 and seek attorneys’ fees
and costs associated with pursuing federal civil actions;
● The federal Physician Payments Sunshine Act, being implemented as the Open Payments Program, which requires
manufacturers of drugs, devices, biologics and medical supplies for which payment is available under Medicare, Medicaid or
the Children’s Health Insurance Program (with certain exceptions) to report annually to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid
Services, information related to direct or indirect payments and other transfers of value to physicians and teaching hospitals, as
well as ownership and investment interests held in a company by physicians and their immediate family members. Since 2022,
applicable manufacturers have been required to report information regarding payments and transfers of value provided to
physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, certified nurse anesthetists and certified nurse-midwives; and
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● U.S. state and local laws and regulations, such as state anti-kickback and false claims laws, which may apply to sales or
marketing arrangements and claims involving healthcare items or services reimbursed by non-governmental third-party payors,
including private insurers; state laws that require pharmaceutical companies to comply with the pharmaceutical industry’s
voluntary compliance guidelines and the compliance guidance promulgated by the federal government or otherwise restrict
payments that may be made to healthcare providers; state laws that restrict the ability of manufacturers to offer co-pay support
to patients for certain prescription drugs; state laws that require drug manufacturers to report information related to clinical
trials, or information related to payments and other transfers of value to physicians and other healthcare providers or marketing
expenditures; state laws that require drug manufacturers to report information on the pricing of certain drugs; state laws and
local ordinances that require identification or licensing of sales representatives; and state laws governing the privacy and
security of health information in certain circumstances, many of which differ from each other in significant ways and often are
not preempted by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, thus complicating compliance efforts.
We will be required to spend substantial time and money to ensure that our business arrangements with third parties comply with
applicable healthcare laws and regulations. Even then, governmental authorities may conclude that our business practices do not comply
with current or future statutes, regulations or case law involving applicable fraud and abuse or other healthcare laws and regulations. If
governmental authorities find that our operations violate any of these laws or any other governmental regulations that may apply to us,
we may be subject to significant civil, criminal and administrative penalties, damages, fines, disgorgement, individual imprisonment,
exclusion from government funded healthcare programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, and additional reporting obligations and
oversight if we become subject to a corporate integrity agreement or other agreement to resolve allegations of non-compliance with these
laws, and we may be required to curtail or restructure our operations. Moreover, we expect that there will continue to be federal and state
laws and regulations, proposed and implemented, that could impact our operations and business. In addition, the approval and
commercialization of any drug candidate we develop outside the United States will also likely subject us to foreign equivalents of the
healthcare laws mentioned above, among other foreign laws. The extent to which future legislation or regulations, if any, relating to
health care fraud and abuse laws or enforcement, may be enacted or what effect such legislation or regulation would have on our
business remains uncertain.
Healthcare Reform
In the United States there have been, and continue to be, several legislative and regulatory changes and proposed reforms of the
healthcare system to contain costs, improve quality and expand access to care. In the United States, there have been and continue to be a
number of healthcare-related legislative initiatives that have significantly affected the pharmaceutical industry. For example, the Patient
Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 in March 2010,
substantially changing the way healthcare is financed by both governmental and private insurers and significantly impacting the U.S.
pharmaceutical industry. Among other things, this act subjects biologics to potential competition by lower-cost biosimilars; addresses a
new methodology by which rebates owed by manufacturers under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program are calculated for drugs that are
inhaled, infused, instilled, implanted or injected; increases the minimum Medicaid rebates owed by manufacturers under the Medicaid
Drug Rebate Program and extends the rebate program to individuals enrolled in Medicaid managed care organizations; establishes annual
fees and taxes on manufacturers of certain branded prescription drugs; and creates a new Medicare Part D coverage gap discount
program in which, as a condition of coverage of its products under Medicare Part D, manufacturers must now agree to offer 70% point-
of-sale discounts off negotiated prices of applicable brand drugs to eligible beneficiaries during their coverage gap period.
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Some of the provisions of this act have yet to be fully implemented, while certain provisions have been subject to judicial and
Congressional challenges. In addition, there have been efforts by the Trump Administration to repeal or replace certain aspects of this act
and to alter the implementation of this act and related laws. For example, Congress has considered legislation that would repeal or repeal
and replace all or part of this act. While Congress has not passed comprehensive repeal legislation, bills affecting the implementation of
certain taxes under this act have been signed into law. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, includes a provision repealing, effective on
January 1, 2019, the tax-based shared responsibility payment imposed by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 on
certain individuals who fail to maintain qualifying health coverage for all or part of a year commonly referred to as the “individual
mandate.” On January 22, 2018, President Trump signed a continuing resolution on appropriations for fiscal year 2018 that delayed the
implementation of certain fees required by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, including the so-called “Cadillac”
tax on certain high cost employer-sponsored insurance plans, the annual fee imposed on certain high cost employer-sponsored insurance
plans, the annual fee imposed on certain health insurance providers based on market share and the medical device excise tax on non-
exempt medical devices. The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, among other things, amends the Health Care and Education Reconciliation
Act of 2010, effective January 1, 2019, to reduce the coverage gap in most Medicare drug plans, commonly referred to as the “donut
hole.” In addition, in July 2018, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued a final rule permitting further collections and
payments to and from certain ACA qualified health plans and health insurance issuers under the risk adjustment program of Health Care
and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 in response to the outcome of federal district court litigation regarding the method Centers for
Medicare and Medicaid Services uses to determine this risk adjustment. Additional legislative changes or regulatory changes related to
the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 remain possible. In December 2018, a United States District Court Judge for
the Northern District of Texas ruled that the entire Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 is unconstitutional because the
tax penalty associated with the “individual mandate” was repealed by Congress as part of the Tax Act. This ruling is under appeal and
stayed pending appeal. While the United States District Court Judge for the Northern District of Texas, as well as the Trump
Administration and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, have stated that the ruling will have no effect while this appeal is
pending, it is unclear how this decision, subsequent appeals and other efforts to invalidate the Health Care and Education Reconciliation
Act of 2010, regulations promulgated under the act or portions thereof, will impact the act and its implementation.
Additionally, there has been increasing legislative and enforcement interest in the United States with respect to specialty drug pricing
practices. Specifically, there have been several U.S. Congressional inquiries and proposed and enacted federal and state legislation
designed to, among other things, bring more transparency to drug pricing; reduce the cost of prescription drugs under Medicare; review
the relationship between pricing and manufacturer patient programs; and reform government program reimbursement methodologies for
drugs. For example, the Trump Administration released a “Blueprint” to lower drug prices and reduce out-of-pocket costs of drugs that
contains additional proposals to increase manufacturer competition, increase the negotiating power of certain federal healthcare
programs, incentivize manufacturers to lower the list price of their products and reduce the out-of-pocket costs of drug products paid by
consumers. On January 31, 2019, Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services proposed
modifications to the federal Anti-Kickback Statute discount safe harbor for the purpose of reducing the cost of drug products to
consumers which, among other things, if finalized, will remove safe harbor protection from rebates paid by manufacturers to Medicare
Part D plans, Medicaid managed care organizations and pharmacy benefit managers working with these organizations. Although a
number of these, and other proposed measures may require additional authorization to become effective, Congress and the Trump
Administration have each indicated that they would continue to seek new legislative and/or administrative measures to control drug
costs. Individual states in the United States have also increasingly passed legislation and implemented regulations designed to control
pharmaceutical and biological product pricing, including price or patient reimbursement limitations, discounts, restrictions on certain
product access and marketing cost disclosure and transparency measures, and, in some cases, designed to encourage importation from
other countries and bulk purchasing. In addition, regional healthcare authorities and individual hospitals are increasingly using bidding
procedures to determine what pharmaceutical products and which suppliers will be included in their prescription drug and other
healthcare programs.
Moreover, on May 30, 2018, the Right to Try Act was signed into law. The law, among other things, provides a federal framework
for certain patients to access certain investigational new drug products that have completed a Phase 1 clinical trial and that are
undergoing investigation for FDA approval. Under certain circumstances, eligible patients can seek treatment without enrolling in
clinical trials and without obtaining FDA permission under the FDA expanded access program. There is no obligation for a
pharmaceutical manufacturer to make its drug products available to eligible patients as a result of the Right to Try Act.
Manufacturing and Supply
Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, we primarily rely on contract development and
manufacturing organizations, or CDMOs to manufacture our drug candidates.
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We currently outsource the manufacturing of clinical trial material for our clinical stage projects to leading CDMOs in China such as
WuXi Biologics, which have established track records for both clinical trial material supply and commercial material supply. We have
assembled a seasoned internal team with deep experience in this area to drive and monitor this process. For contingency planning
purposes, we have also established relationships with other CDMOs. We expect to continue our outsourcing relationships with contract
manufacturers to meet the ongoing needs for the development of our drug candidates. We have framework agreements with these
external service providers, under which they provide services to us on a project-by-project basis. We also monitor the manufacturing
activities of clinical trial material at CDMOs to ensure the compliance with local and international current good manufacturing practice
and applicable regulations. Currently, our contract manufacturers obtain raw materials and supplies for the manufacturing activities from
multiple suppliers who we believe have sufficient capacity to meet our demands. We typically order materials and services on a purchase
order basis. We also enter into long-term capacity or minimum supply arrangements with them.
Historically, we invested in a manufacturing facility under construction by I-Mab Hangzhou and, through our wholly-owned
subsidiary, were the largest shareholder of I-Mab Hangzhou. Upon the occurrence of certain triggering events as specified in the
shareholders agreement among I-Mab Hangzhou, we, through our wholly-owned subsidiary, and other domestic investors, including but
not limited to I-Mab Hangzhou’s failure to accomplish certain public offering condition, we may be obligated to repurchase the equity
held by other domestic investors in cash or in our stocks. In connection with the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business
operations, we have transferred most of the equity interests we held in I-Mab Hangzhou to certain participating shareholders of I-Mab
Hangzhou in exchange for extinguishment of the existing repurchase obligations owed by I-Mab Hong Kong to those shareholders in the
amount of approximately US$183 million. As a result, we subsequently became a minority shareholder, and I-Mab Hangzhou has
become an unconsolidated investee of our company. We may seek to contract with I-Mab Hangzhou or other manufacturing facilities to
manufacture our product candidates in the future, which could add to our costs.
Code of Conduct
We have formulated a code of conduct that covers business ethics, responsible research and development activities, public relations,
intellectual property and data protection, workplace, assets, corporate governance, concerns reporting and other behaviors, and serves as
a guide for all employees and third parties to take compliance actions in business activities. We have arranged compliance training
courses for newly hired employees to help them understand the business code of conduct that falls in line with industry and our
standards. In addition, we have adopted an employee handbook which describes the compliance management system implemented at I-
Mab to ensure compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
Quality Control and Assurance
Our senior management is firmly committed to delivering our quality performance, actively involved in allocating sufficient
resources to quality management system and setting quality governance mechanism.
For pre-clinical and clinical trials, the overall quality management outlines the implementation of our business policies and
procedures in order to consistently comply with the regulatory requirements, including good laboratory practices, good clinical practices,
good pharmacovigilance practice and other applicable regulatory requirements in the performance of the trials. This includes:
● predefined policies and procedures to manage pre-clinical and clinical studies;
● dedicated resources and personnel with well delineated roles and responsibilities;
● quality risk management across the product lifecycle;
● continuous quality management system improvement;
● non-conformance management via quality issue management process;
● development and execution of quality audit program; and
● regulatory inspection readiness.
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For chemistry, manufacturing and controls, we have established a quality management system to oversee the process development
and API and drug production at the contract development and manufacturing organizations. This system takes a holistic approach
bringing senior management, quality assurance team and company policies together to create an efficient and agile quality culture. Our
quality commitment with respect to chemistry, manufacturing and controls includes, but not limited to:
● ensure that the product manufacturing, releasing, packaging, storage, and shipment meets all specifications and the
requirements of the FDA, current good manufacturing practice or other applicable laws and regulations;
● review of process deviations and changes, root cause analysis, impact assessment, corrective and preventative actions, and
validation;
● ensure the consistency of key quality practices with our contract development and manufacturing organizations;
● proactive quality system review based on audits, process data analysis, equipment condition, and periodic review of internal and
external sources of data; and
● assessment of regulatory guidance and ensure readiness for regulatory inspections.
C. Organizational Structure
The following chart illustrates our company’s updated organizational structure, including our principal subsidiaries, as of the date of
this annual report:
D. Property, Plant and Equipment
Our headquarters is located in Rockville, MD, where we lease and occupy approximately 744 square meters as office space. We
currently lease approximately 54 square meters of office space in Tianjin, and approximately 1,081 square meters of office space and
laboratories in San Diego. The terms of these leases range from one year to seven years.
ITEM 4A. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
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ITEM 5.
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
You should read the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations in conjunction with our
consolidated financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this annual report on Form 20-F.
This discussion may contain forward-looking statements based upon current expectations that involve risks and uncertainties. Our
actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including
those set forth under “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors” or in other parts of this annual report on Form 20-F.
A. Operating Results
Overview
We are a U.S.-based global biotech company exclusively focused on the development and potential commercialization of highly
differentiated immunotherapies for the treatment of cancer. Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations
and as of the date of this annual report, we have developed an innovative pipeline of three clinical stage assets through our internal
research and development efforts and collaboration arrangements with global pharmaceutical and biotech companies.
Since the commencement of our operation in 2014, we have devoted most of our efforts and financial resources to organizing and
staffing our operations, formulating business planning, raising capital, establishing our intellectual property portfolio and conducting pre-
clinical and clinical trials of our drug candidates. On February 6, 2024, we entered into definitive agreements to divest the Greater China
assets and business operations, including our rights to the Greater China portfolio, to I-Mab Hangzhou for an aggregate consideration of
the RMB equivalent of up to US$80 million, contingent on the achievement of certain future regulatory and sales-based milestone
events. After the completion of the divestiture, we no longer own any rights to the Greater China portfolio.
We have not generated any revenue from the sales of our products, and as a result, we had incurred net losses since the
commencement of our operations to 2023, except that in 2020, we generated net income of RMB470.9 million, primarily attributable to
the revenues recognized in connection with the strategic collaboration with AbbVie of RMB1,542.7 million. In 2021, 2022 and 2023, our
net losses were RMB2,331.5 million, RMB2,507.3 million and RMB1,465.7 million (US$206.4 million), respectively. We do not expect
to generate product revenue unless and until we obtain marketing approval for and commercialize a drug candidate, and we cannot assure
you that we will ever generate significant revenue or profits.
Key Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations
Our results of operations, financial condition, and the year-to-year comparability of our financial results have been, and are
expected to continue to be, principally affected by the below factors:
Cost and Expenses Structure
Our results of operations are significantly affected by our cost structure, which primarily consists of research and development
expenses and administrative expenses.
Research and development activities are central to our business model. We believe our ability to successfully develop drug
candidates is the primary factor affecting our long-term competitiveness, as well as our future growth and development. Developing
high-quality drug candidates requires a significant investment of resources over a prolonged period of time, and a core part of our
strategy is to continue making sustained investments in this area. Since our inception, we have focused our resources on our research and
development activities, including conducting pre-clinical studies and clinical trials, and activities related to regulatory filings for our drug
candidates. Our research and development expenses primarily include the following:
● costs related to development of our pipeline assets under all stages including discovery, pre-clinical testing or clinical trials;
● patent license fees and other fees under the licensing, collaboration and development agreements with respect to our in-licensed
drug candidates; and
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● employee salaries and related benefit costs, including share-based compensation expenses, for research and development
personnel and key management.
At this time, we are unable to predict when, if ever, we will be able to achieve profitability. Even if we achieve profitability in the
future, we may not be able to sustain profitability in subsequent periods thereafter. This is due to the numerous risks and uncertainties
associated with developing such drug candidates, including the uncertainty of:
● successful enrollment in and completion of clinical trials;
● establishing an appropriate safety profile;
● establishing commercial manufacturing capabilities or making arrangements with third-party manufacturers;
● receipt of marketing approvals from applicable regulatory authorities;
● commercializing the drug candidates, if and when approved, whether alone or in collaboration with others;
● obtaining and maintaining patent and trade secret protection and regulatory exclusivity for our drug candidates;
● continued acceptable safety profiles of the products following approval; and
● retention of key research and development personnel.
Any change in the outcome of any of these variables with respect to the development of any of our drug candidates would
significantly change the costs, timing and viability associated with the development of that drug candidate. Following the divestiture of
our Greater China assets and business operations, we expect research and development costs to decrease in the foreseeable future, as we
continue to support and advance the clinical trials of our drug candidates.
Our administrative expenses consist primarily of employee salaries and related benefit costs. Other administrative expenses include
professional fees for consulting and auditing as well as other direct and allocated expenses such as rent on our facilities, travel costs and
other supplies used in administrative activities. Following the divestiture of our Greater China assets and business operations, we expect
our administrative expenses to decrease in the future to support our pipeline assets and research and development efforts.
Revenue from Out-Licensing Agreements
We continue to seek out-licensing opportunities for our drug assets through our network of global partnerships and alliances. As we
have not obtained marketing approval for or commercialized a drug candidate, our revenues at the current stage are primarily subject to
the availability of the payments from granting licenses to research, develop and otherwise exploit certain of our drug assets, and supply
of the investigational products thereof, which primarily contributed to our revenues in 2020, 2021 and 2023. See “Item 4. Information on
the Company—B. Business Overview—Licensing and Collaboration Arrangements” for more information on the existing out-licensing
arrangements.” However, substantial uncertainties remain as to the availability and the recognition of revenue from out-licensing
agreement. For example, we recognized an aggregate revenue of US$48.0 million in 2020 and 2021 in relation to our collaboration with
AbbVie based on the probability of achieving a key milestone. However, we witnessed an amendment to the overall collaboration
arrangement with AbbVie, which resulted in a lowered probability of achieving such key milestone and a reversal of revenue of
US$-48.0 million (equivalent to RMB-314.2 million) in 2022. In September 2023, we received a notice from AbbVie, terminating the
collaboration agreement in its entirety.
In addition, after validating clinical safety and preliminary efficacy of a drug candidate in our Global portfolio in clinical trials in the
United States, we may elect to out-license certain rights of such drug candidate, but we may choose to retain these rights for the United
States or other countries or regions as we may deem fit. Before the commercialization of one or more of our drug candidates, we expect
that the majority of our revenue will continue to be generated from out-licensing our intellectual properties.
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Funding for Our Operations
During the periods presented, we funded our operations primarily from financing through the issuance and sale of preferred shares
and convertible promissory notes in private placement transactions. Going forward, in the event of successful commercialization of one
or more of our drug candidates, we expect to fund our operations in part with revenue generated from sales of our commercialized drug
products. In addition, we may require further funding through public or private offerings, debt financing, collaboration, and licensing
arrangements or other sources. Any fluctuation in our ability to fund our operations will impact our cash flow plan and our results of
operations.
Our Ability to Commercialize Our Drug Candidates
Our business and results of operations depend on our ability to commercialize our drug candidates, once and if those candidates are
approved for marketing by the applicable health authority. Currently, our pipeline consists of three clinical stage drug candidates.
Although we currently do not have any product approved for commercial sale and have not generated any revenue from product sales,
we expect to generate revenue from sales of drug candidates after we complete the clinical development, obtain regulatory approval, and
successfully commercialize such drug candidates. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Our Drug
Pipeline” for more information on the development status of our various drug candidates.
The Effect of Our Acquisition of I-Mab Tianjin and Our Divestiture of the Greater China Assets and Business Operations
We acquired a controlling interest in I-Mab Tianjin on July 15, 2017 and the remaining interest in I-Mab Tianjin in May 2018. Since
our acquisition of the controlling interest in I-Mab Tianjin on July 15, 2017, I-Mab Tianjin has been consolidated into our results of
operations. Shortly after we acquired the controlling interest in I-Mab Tianjin, we integrated the operations of I-Mab Tianjin into our
operations. I-Mab Tianjin did not generate any external revenue from July 15, 2017 to December 31, 2023. In connection with our
acquisition of I-Mab Tianjin, we identified intangible assets of RMB148.8 million and goodwill of RMB162.6 million of I-Mab Tianjin.
Goodwill is not amortized, but impairment of goodwill assessment is performed on at least an annual basis on December 31 or whenever
events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value. For the years ended
December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, we recognized goodwill impairment in the amount of nil, nil and RMB162.6 million (US$22.9
million), respectively. Impairment charges could substantially affect our results of operations in the periods of such charges. In addition,
impairment charges would negatively impact our financial ratios and could limit our ability to obtain financing in the future.
On February 6, 2024, we entered into definitive agreements to divest the Greater China assets and business operations, including our
rights to the Greater China portfolio, to I-Mab Hangzhou for an aggregate consideration of the RMB equivalent of up to US$80 million,
contingent on the achievement of certain future regulatory and sales-based milestone events. After the completion of the divestiture, we
do not own any rights to the Greater China portfolio, including the Greater China rights for eftansomatropin alfa, felzartamab,
uliledlimab, and givastomig. We will no longer bear future development costs of the Greater China assets and business operations. The
transaction also extinguishes existing repurchase obligations owed by a wholly owned subsidiary of ours in the amount of approximately
US$183 million.
As a result of our divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, we have ceased to consolidate the divested entities,
assets and businesses as well as their corresponding financial results from the second quarter of 2024. The audited consolidated financial
information presented in this annual report did not take into account the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations
that was closed in April 2024. For the year ending December 31, 2024, we expect that our financial condition and results of operations
will be materially affected and our historical results will not be indicative of future financial condition or results of operations.
Key Components of Results of Operations
Revenues
For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2022, we generated revenue from (i) licensing and collaboration, primarily through
granting licenses to use and otherwise exploiting certain of our intellectual properties in connection with our drug assets, and (ii) supply
of investigational products to AbbVie. The decrease in 2022 net revenue was primarily due to a non-cash adjustment of US$-48.0 million
(equivalent to RMB-314.2 million) recorded in the second half of 2022 following the amendment to the original license and
collaboration agreement with AbbVie in August 2022. For the year ended December 31, 2023, we generated revenue from the supply of
investigational products to AbbVie and Human Immunology Biosciences, Inc.
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Research and Development Expenses
Research and development expenses primarily consist of: (i) payroll and other related expenses of research and development
personnel, (ii) fees associated with the exclusive development rights of our in-licensed drug candidates, (iii) fees for services provided by
CROs, investigators and clinical trial sites that conduct our clinical studies, and (iv) expenses relating to the development of our drug
candidates, including raw materials and supplies, product testing, depreciation, and facility related expenses.
Our research and development activities in 2023 were primarily related to the former Greater China portfolio. Following the
completion of the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, our current research and development activities
primarily relate to the clinical development of the following investigational drugs:
● Uliledlimab, a highly differentiated CD73 antibody for solid tumors, if approved;
● Givastomig, a novel, tumor-dependent T cell engager for gastric and other cancers, if approved; and
● Ragistomig, a PD-L1-based tumor-dependent T cell engager for solid tumors, if approved.
We incurred research and development expenses of RMB1,213.0 million, RMB904.9 million and RMB810.6 million (US$114.2
million) for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively, representing 57.4%, 52.6% and 64.2% of our total research
and development and administrative expenses for the corresponding periods. We expect our research and development expenses to
decrease in relation to prior years, due to a streamlined operating model and a more focused pipeline strategy.
Administrative Expense
Administrative expenses primarily consist of salaries and related benefit costs, including share-based compensation, for employees
engaged in managerial and administrative positions or involved in general corporate functions, professional fees for consulting and
auditing as well as other direct and allocated expenses such as rent on our facilities, travel costs and other supplies used in administrative
activities. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, our administrative expenses amounted to RMB899.9 million,
RMB815.8 million and RMB453.0 million (US$63.8 million), respectively. We expect our administrative expenses to decrease in
relation to prior years, due to a streamlined operating model with less employees and a more focused pipeline strategy.
Impairment of Goodwill
For the year ended December 31, 2023, we recognized an impairment of goodwill of RMB162.6 million (US$22.9 million). The
goodwill impairment resulted from our annual impairment analysis and reflected the continued disconnect between I-Mab’s anticipated
future performance and present uncertainty reflected in its market valuation.
Interest Expense
Interest expense consists primarily of interest expenses on our short-term bank borrowings.
Interest Income
Interest income consists primarily of interest income derived from our term deposit and restricted cash pledged as collateral for a
working capital loan.
Other Income (Expenses), Net
Other income (expenses), net consists primarily of income from the equity transfer of I-Mab Hangzhou, fair value change of short-
term and other investments, fair value change of put right liabilities, net foreign exchange gains (losses) and subsidy income.
Equity In Loss of Affiliates
Equity in loss of affiliates consists primarily of the loss recognized based on our proportion ownership in I-Mab Hangzhou.
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Taxation
Cayman Islands
I-Mab, our holding entity, is incorporated in the Cayman Islands. According to Harney Westwood & Riegels, our Cayman Islands
counsel, the Cayman Islands currently levies no taxes on individuals or corporations based upon profits, income, gains or appreciation
and there is no taxation in the nature of inheritance tax or estate duty. There are no other taxes likely to be material to us levied by the
Government of the Cayman Islands, except for stamp duties, which may be applicable on instruments executed in, or brought to, or
produced before a court of the Cayman Islands. The Cayman Islands is not a party to any double tax treaties that are applicable to any
payments made to or by our company. There are no exchange control regulations or currency restrictions in the Cayman Islands.
Hong Kong
I-Mab, our holding entity, holds a business registration and tax file number in Hong Kong. I-Mab Biopharma Hong Kong Limited is
incorporated in Hong Kong. Companies registered in Hong Kong are subject to Hong Kong profits tax on the taxable income as reported
in their respective statutory financial statements adjusted in accordance with the Hong Kong tax laws. Under the current Hong Kong
Inland Revenue Ordinance, from the year of assessment 2018/2019 onwards, companies registered in Hong Kong are subject to profits
tax at the rate of 8.25% on assessable profits up to HK$2,000,000; and 16.5% on any part of assessable profits over HK$2,000,000. For
the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the income tax expenses recorded in the consolidated statements of comprehensive
income (loss) for I-Mab were nil, RMB0.7 million and nil, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, I-Mab
Biopharma Hong Kong Limited did not make any provisions for Hong Kong profit tax as there were no assessable profits derived from
or earnings in Hong Kong for any of the periods presented. Under the Hong Kong tax law, I-Mab and I-Mab Biopharma Hong Kong
Limited is exempted from income tax on its foreign-derived income and there are no withholding taxes in Hong Kong on remittance of
dividends.
United States
I-Mab Biopharma US Ltd. is incorporated in Maryland and is subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax at a rate of 21%. It is also
subject to state income tax in Maryland at a rate of 8.25%. I-Mab Biopharma US Ltd. has no taxable income for all periods presented and
therefore no provision for income taxes is required.
China
On March 16, 2007, the National People’s Congress of the PRC enacted the Corporate Income Tax Law (as amended in 2017 and
2018, respectively), under which Foreign Investment Enterprises and domestic companies would be subject to corporate income tax at a
uniform rate of 25%. The Corporate Income Tax Law became effective on January 1, 2008. Under the Corporate Income Tax Law,
preferential tax treatments are granted to entities which conduct businesses in certain encouraged sectors and to entities otherwise
classified as “High and New Technology Enterprises.”
Our PRC subsidiary is subject to the statutory income tax rate of 25%. No provision for income taxes has been accrued because our
PRC subsidiary is in cumulative loss positions for all the periods presented.
A valuation allowance is provided to reduce the amount of deferred tax assets if it is considered more likely than not that some
portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized in the foreseeable future. In making such determination, we evaluate a variety
of positive and negative factors including our operating history, accumulated deficit, the existence of taxable temporary differences and
reversal periods.
We have incurred net accumulated operating losses for income tax purposes since our inception. We believe that it is more likely
than not that these net accumulated operating losses will not be utilized in the future based on the assessment as of December 31, 2023.
Therefore, we have provided full valuation allowances for the deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023.
We evaluate each uncertain tax position (including the potential application of interest and penalties) based on the technical merits,
and measure the unrecognized benefits associated with the tax positions. As of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, we did not have any
significant unrecognized uncertain tax positions.
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Results of Operations
The following table sets forth a summary of our consolidated results of operations for the periods indicated. This information should
be read together with our consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this annual report. The operating
results in any period are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for any future period.
Summary Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(Loss) Data:
Revenues
Licensing and collaboration revenue
Supply of investigational products
Total revenues
Cost of revenues
Expenses
Research and development expenses (1)
Administrative expenses (1)
Impairment of goodwill
Loss from operations
Interest income
Interest expense
Other income (expenses), net
Equity in loss of affiliates (1)
Loss before income tax expense
Income tax benefit (expense)
Net loss attributable to I-Mab
Net loss attributable to ordinary shareholders
Other comprehensive (loss) income
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of nil tax
Total comprehensive loss attributable to I-Mab
Net loss attributable to ordinary shareholders
Weighted-average number of ordinary shares used in calculating net
loss per share
Basic
Diluted
Net loss per share attributable to ordinary shareholders
Basic
Diluted
Net (loss) income per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders
—Basic
—Diluted
Note:
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For the Year Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
US$
(in thousands, except for per share data)
40,115
47,911
88,026
(46,432)
(249,665)
28,102
(221,563)
(27,237)
16,814
10,830
27,644
—
(1,212,958)
(899,943)
—
(2,071,307)
21,333
—
83,162
(367,883)
(2,334,695)
3,154
(2,331,541)
(2,331,541)
(904,901)
(815,766)
—
(1,969,467)
26,908
(9)
(126,587)
(437,465)
(2,506,620)
(697)
(2,507,317)
(2,507,317)
(810,646)
(453,017)
(162,574)
(1,398,593)
51,749
(722)
(38,109)
(80,019)
(1,465,694)
—
(1,465,694)
(1,465,694)
(135,717)
(2,467,258)
(2,331,541)
400,304
(2,107,013)
(2,507,317)
84,497
(1,381,197)
(1,465,694)
2,368
1,525
3,893
—
(114,177)
(63,806)
(22,898)
(196,988)
7,289
(102)
(5,368)
(11,270)
(206,439)
—
(206,439)
(206,439)
11,901
(194,538)
(206,439)
174,707,055
174,707,055
189,787,292
189,787,292
191,423,850
191,423,850
191,423,850
191,423,850
(13.35)
(13.35)
(30.71)
(30.71)
(13.21)
(13.21)
(30.38)
(30.38)
(7.66)
(7.66)
(17.62)
(17.62)
(1.08)
(1.08)
(2.48)
(2.48)
Table of Contents
(1) Share-based compensation expenses were allocated as follows:
2021
RMB
For the Year Ended December 31,
2023
2022
RMB
RMB
US$
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses
Equity in loss of affiliates
Total
Year Ended December 31, 2023 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2022
Revenues
(in thousands)
201,926
406,683
13,267
621,876
117,876
239,272
13,852
371,000
66,758
126,244
4,815
197,817
9,403
17,781
678
27,862
Total net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023 were RMB27.6 million (US$3.9 million), compared with RMB-221.6
million for the year ended December 31, 2022. Total net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023 consisted of revenues
recognized in connection with the strategic collaboration with AbbVie and revenues generated from the supply of investigational
products to AbbVie and Human Immunology Biosciences, Inc. The negative figure for net revenue for the year ended December 31,
2022 was primarily due to a one-time, non-cash accounting adjustment of US$-48.0 million (equivalent to RMB-314.2 million) recorded
in the second half of 2022 following the amendment to the original license and collaboration agreement with AbbVie in August 2022.
This amendment led to a reduced probability of achieving a key milestone that was included in the consideration of revenue recognition
in prior years.
Research and Development Expenses
The following table sets forth a breakdown of the major components of our research and development expenses in absolute amounts
and as a percentage of our total research and development expenses for the periods indicated:
2022
For the Year Ended December 31,
2023
US$
RMB % RMB
CRO service fees
In-licensed patent right fees
Employee benefit expenses
Material costs for drug candidates
Other expenses
Total
523,559
3,316
324,363
20,857
32,806
904,901
(in thousands, except for percentages)
73,148
519,345
209
1,485
34,059
241,814
1,961
13,926
4,800
34,076
114,177
810,646
57.9
0.4
35.8
2.3
3.6
100.0
%
64.1
0.2
29.8
1.7
4.2
100.0
Our research and development expenses decreased by 10.4% from RMB904.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 to
RMB810.6 million (US$114.2 million) for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily due to (i) a decrease in employee benefit
expenses of employees involved in research and development from RMB324.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 to
RMB241.8 million (US$34.1 million) for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily due to reduced payroll expenses related to
headcount optimization as a result of asset prioritization and reduced share-based compensation expenses; (ii) a slight decrease in service
fees for CRO and contract manufacturing organizations from RMB523.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 to RMB519.3
million (US$73.1 million) for the year ended December 31, 2023; (iii) a decrease in material costs for drug candidates from RMB20.9
million for the year ended December 31, 2022 to RMB13.9 million (US$2.0 million) for the year ended December 31, 2023; and (iv) a
slight increase in other expenses from RMB32.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 to RMB34.1 million (US$4.8 million) for
the year ended December 31, 2023.
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In 2023, 86.1% and 13.9% of our total research and development expenses were attributable to clinical programs and preclinical
programs, respectively, as compared to 88.2% and 11.8% in 2022. In 2023, felzartamab and eftansomatropin alfa accounted for
approximately 43.1% and 22.2% of our external research and development expenses, which primarily included payments to CROs and
contract manufacturing organizations. In 2022, felzartamab and eftansomatropin alfa accounted for approximately 23.6% and 20.6% of
our external research and development expenses, which primarily included payments to CROs and contract manufacturing organizations.
No other programs accounted for a significant portion of our research and development expenses in 2023 and 2022. Though we manage
our external research and development expenses by program, we do not allocate our internal research and development expenses by
program because our employees and internal resources may be engaged in projects for multiple programs at any time.
Administrative Expenses
Our administrative expenses decreased from RMB815.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 to RMB453.0 million
(US$63.8 million) for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily attributable to the decrease in payroll expenses by RMB36.2 million
(US$5.1 million) related to decreased headcount as a result of resource optimization and share-based compensation expenses by
RMB113.1 million (US$15.9 million) for management personnel, reduced expenses for professional services, and reduced legal expenses
in relation to the disputes with Tracon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. of RMB95.5 million (US$13.5 million).
Impairment of Goodwill
We recognized an impairment of goodwill of RMB162.6 million (US$22.9 million) in 2023, primarily attributable to the termination
of a licensing and collaboration agreement with AbbVie in the fourth quarter of 2023. The goodwill impairment resulted from our annual
impairment analysis, and reflects the continued disconnect between I-Mab’s anticipated future performance and present uncertainty
reflected in its market valuation.
Interest Income
We recorded interest income of RMB26.9 million and RMB51.7 million (US$7.3 million) for the years ended December 31, 2022
and 2023, respectively. The change was primarily attributable to the interest income derived from bank deposits and the increase in
interest rate of bank deposits in U.S. dollars.
Other Income (Expenses), Net
We recorded other expenses of RMB126.6 million and RMB38.1 million (US$5.4 million) for the years ended December 31, 2022
and 2023, respectively. The change was primarily attributable to unrealized exchange losses due to the significant fluctuation in the
exchange rate of the Renminbi against the U.S. dollar in 2023.
Equity in Loss of Affiliates
We recorded equity in loss of affiliates of RMB437.5 million and RMB80.0 million (US$11.3 million) for the years ended December
31, 2022 and 2023, respectively. The change was mainly recognized in relation to the operating loss of our investee, I-Mab Hangzhou.
Year Ended December 31, 2022 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2021
Revenues
Total net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2022 were RMB-221.6 million, compared with RMB88.0 million for the year
ended December 31, 2021. The decrease in 2022 net revenue was primarily due to a non-cash adjustment of US$-48.0 million
(equivalent to RMB-314.2 million) recorded in the second half of 2022 following the amendment to the original license and
collaboration agreement with AbbVie in August 2022. This amendment led to a lowered probability of achieving a key milestone that
was included in the total consideration of revenue recognition in prior years. The decrease was partially offset by revenue of RMB92.6
million from license and collaboration arrangements and the supply of investigational products.
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Research and Development Expenses
The following table sets forth a breakdown of the major components of our research and development expenses in absolute amounts
and as a percentage of our total research and development expenses for the periods indicated:
CRO service fees
In-licensed patent right fees
Employee benefit expenses
Material costs for drug candidates
Other expenses
Total
For the Year Ended December 31,
2022
2021
RMB
%
RMB
%
(in thousands, except for percentages)
727,573
66,344
347,571
23,141
48,329
1,212,958
60.0
5.5
28.7
1.9
3.9
100.0
523,559
3,316
324,363
20,857
32,806
904,901
57.9
0.4
35.8
2.3
3.6
100.0
Our research and development expenses decreased by 25.4% from RMB1,213.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 to
RMB904.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, primarily attributable to (i) a decrease in service fees for CRO and contract
manufacturing organizations from RMB727.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 to RMB523.6 million for the year ended
December 31, 2022, primarily due to the reduced demand for investigational products as we procured sufficient stock in 2021; (ii) a
decrease in in-licensed patent right fees from RMB66.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 to RMB3.3 million for the year
ended December 31, 2022; and (iii) a slight decrease in employee benefit expenses of employees involved in research and development
from RMB347.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 to RMB324.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.
In 2022, 88.2% and 11.8% of our total research and development expenses were attributable to clinical programs and preclinical
programs, respectively, as compared to 94.3% and 5.7% in 2021. In 2022, felzartamab and eftansomatropin alfa accounted for
approximately 23.6% and 20.6% of our external research and development expenses, which primarily included payments to CROs and
contract manufacturing organizations. In 2021, felzartamab and lemzoparlimab accounted for approximately 26.4% and 34.8% of our
external research and development expenses, which primarily included licensing fees and payments to CROs and contract manufacturing
organizations. No other programs accounted for a significant portion of our research and development expenses in 2022 and 2021.
Though we manage our external research and development expenses by program, we do not allocate our internal research and
development expenses by program because our employees and internal resources may be engaged in projects for multiple programs at
any time.
Administrative Expenses
Our administrative expenses decreased from RMB899.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 to RMB815.8 million for the
year ended December 31, 2022, primarily attributable to the decrease in share-based compensation expenses by RMB167.4 million in
relation to the management personnel and optimized control of operating and administrative expenses, and partially offset by the increase
of the accrued expenses in relation to the disputes with Tracon of RMB95.5 million.
Interest Income
We recorded interest income of RMB21.3 million and RMB26.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2022,
respectively. The change was primarily attributable to the interest income derived from bank deposits and a decrease in bank balance.
Other Income (Expenses), Net
We recorded other income of RMB83.2 million and other expenses of RMB126.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2021
and 2022, respectively. The change was primarily attributable to unrealized exchange losses due to the significant fluctuation in the
exchange rate of RMB against USD in 2022 and the fair value change of short-term and other investments.
Equity in Loss of Affiliates
We recorded equity in loss of affiliates of RMB367.9 million and RMB437.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and
2022, respectively. The change was primarily due to the increased expenditure of our investee, I-Mab Hangzhou.
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Critical Accounting Policies and Significant Judgments and Estimates
Our reported results are impacted by the application of certain accounting policies that require us to make subjective or complex
judgments. These judgments involve estimations of the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain and may significantly impact our
quarterly or annual results of operations or financial condition. Changes in the estimates and judgments could significantly affect our
results of operations, financial condition and cash flows in future years. A description of what we consider to be our most significant
critical accounting policies and estimates follows.
Goodwill
Goodwill is an asset representing the future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are
not individually identified and separately recognized. We allocate the cost of an acquired entity to the assets acquired and liabilities
assumed based on their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. The excess of the purchase price for acquisitions over the fair
value of the net assets acquired, including other intangible assets, is recorded as goodwill. Goodwill is not amortized, but impairment of
goodwill is tested on at least an annual basis or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the
reporting unit exceeds its fair value.
We first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of our reporting unit is less than
its carrying amount, including goodwill. The qualitative assessment includes our evaluation of relevant events and circumstances
affecting our single reporting unit, including macroeconomic, industry, market conditions and our overall financial performance. If
qualitative factors indicate that it is more likely than not that our reporting unit’s fair value is less than its carrying amount, then we will
perform the quantitative impairment test by comparing the reporting unit’s carrying amount, including goodwill, to its fair value. If the
carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss will be recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
We applied significant judgement in developing the fair value of our single reporting unit. Fair value of the reporting unit is
estimated by us using a discounted cash flow model which requires us to make judgements and assumptions related to future revenues,
discount rate and terminal growth rate. The probabilities of the success of the clinical trials based on the status of these trials and
reference to the industry benchmark were also incorporated into the assumption of future revenues. Impairment of goodwill of
RMB162.6 million (US$22.9 million) was recognized for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Revenue Recognition
We adopted Accounting Standard Codification 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), or the ASC 606, for all
periods presented. Consistent with the criteria of Topic 606, we recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to
customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services.
Under ASC 606, an entity recognizes revenue when its customer obtains control of promised goods or services, in an amount that
reflects the consideration that the entity expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. The entity performs the following
five steps to account for the arrangements that an entity determines are within the scope of ASC 606: (i) identify the contract(s) with a
customer; (ii) identify the performance obligations in the contract; (iii) determine the transaction price, including variable consideration,
if any; (iv) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and (v) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity
satisfies a performance obligation.
Once a contract is determined to be within the scope of ASC 606 at contract inception, we evaluate the contract to determine which
performance obligations it must deliver and which of these performance obligations are distinct. We recognize as revenue the amount of
the transaction price that is allocated to each performance obligation when that performance obligation is satisfied or as it is satisfied.
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Variable consideration in collaboration revenue arrangements
If the consideration promised in a contract includes a variable amount, we will estimate the amount of consideration to which we
will be entitled in exchange for transferring the promised goods or services to a customer. An amount of consideration can vary because
of discounts, rebates, refunds, credits, price concessions, incentives, performance bonuses, penalties, or other similar items. The
promised consideration also can vary if an entity’s entitlement to the consideration is contingent on the occurrence or nonoccurrence of a
future event. We estimate an amount of variable consideration by using either of the following methods, depending on which method we
expect to better predict the amount of consideration to which it will be entitled:
a. The expected value—The expected value is the sum of probability-weighted amounts in a range of possible consideration
amounts. An expected value may be an appropriate estimate of the amount of variable consideration if an entity has a large
number of contracts with similar characteristics.
b. The most likely amount—The most likely amount is the single most likely amount in a range of possible consideration amounts
(that is, the single most likely outcome of the contract). The most likely amount may be an appropriate estimate of the amount
of variable consideration if the contract has only two possible outcomes (for example, an entity either achieves a performance
bonus or does not).
We include in the transaction price some or all of an amount of variable consideration estimated in accordance with above only to
the extent that it is probable that a significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur when the
uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is subsequently resolved.
Determination of the standalone selling price of each performance obligation
Our collaborative arrangements may contain more than one unit of account, or performance obligation, including grants of licenses
to intellectual property rights, agreement to provide research and development services and other deliverables. The collaborative
arrangements do not include a right of return for any deliverable. As part of the accounting for these arrangements, we must develop
assumptions that require judgment to determine the standalone selling price for each performance obligation identified in the contract. In
developing the stand-alone selling price for a performance obligation, we consider competitor pricing for a similar or identical product,
market awareness of and perception of the product, expected product life and current market trends. In general, the consideration
allocated to each performance obligation is recognized when the respective obligation is satisfied either by delivering a good or
providing a service, limited to the consideration that is not constrained.
Cost-to-cost measure of progress for over time performance obligations
Under our certain licensing and collaboration arrangement entered into with a business partner, we recognized revenue using the
cost-to-cost measure of progress for its over time performance obligations as we believe this recognition best depicts the transfer of
benefits to its business partner as costs are incurred under the licensing and collaboration arrangement. Under the cost-to-cost measure of
progress method, the extent of progress towards completion is measured based on the ratio of costs incurred to-date to the total estimated
costs for completion of the performance obligations. We applied significant judgment in estimating the total estimated costs for
completion of performance obligations under such licensing and collaboration arrangement.
See Note 14 “Licensing and Collaboration Arrangements” of our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual
report for a further discussion of our licensing and collaboration revenues.
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Fair value measurement of put right liabilities
Put right written by us to third party investors in our affiliate was recorded as a freestanding equity-linked instrument and classified
as a put right liability. We determined the fair value of the put right with the assistance of an independent third-party valuation firm. We
used the option pricing model (finnerty model) to estimate the fair value of the put right. The model requires the input of key
assumptions including the expected terms, estimated volatility, spot price and probability of triggering event for redemption option. The
significant unobservable inputs used in the option pricing model included spot price, estimated volatility and probability of triggering
event for redemption option. Expected terms is estimated based on the timing of a hypothetical redemption event which is assumed to be
the earlier of expected redemption date or expected public offering date. Expected volatility is estimated based on daily stock prices of
the comparable companies for a period with length commensurate to the expected terms of redemption event. The spot price was
determined using the income approach with assistance from an independent third-party valuation firm. The significant unobservable
inputs used in the income approach include revenue growth rates and discount rates.
Research and Development Expenses
Elements of research and development expenses primarily include (1) payroll and other related expenses of personnel engaged in
research and development activities, (2) in-licensed patent rights fee of exclusive development rights of drugs granted to us, (3) expenses
related to preclinical testing of our technologies under development and clinical trials such as payments to CRO, investigators and
clinical trial sites that conduct the clinical studies, (4) expenses to develop the product candidates, including raw materials and supplies,
product testing, depreciation, and facility related expenses, and (5) other research and development expenses. Research and development
expenses are charged to expenses as incurred when these expenditures are used for our research and development activities and have no
alternative future uses.
We applied significant judgment in estimating the progress of our research and development activities and completion of or
likelihood of achieving milestone events per underlying agreements when estimating the research and development costs to be accrued at
each reporting period end. The process of estimating our research and development expenses involves reviewing open contracts and
purchase orders, communicating with personnel to identify services that have been performed on our behalf and estimating the level of
service performed and the associated costs incurred for the services when we have not yet been invoiced or otherwise notified of the
actual costs.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
A list of recently issued accounting pronouncements that are relevant to us is included in Note 2 “Principal Accounting Policies—
2.27 Recent Accounting Pronouncements” of our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report.
B. Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash Flows and Working Capital
We have incurred net losses and negative cash flows from our operations for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023.
Substantially all of our losses have resulted from funding our research and development programs and administrative costs associated
with our operations. We incurred net losses of RMB2,331.5 million, RMB2,507.3 million and RMB1,465.7 million (US$206.4 million)
for the year ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. Our primary use of cash is to fund our research and development
activities. We used RMB973.1 million, RMB1,102.8 million and RMB1,305.0 million (US$183.8 million) in cash for our operating
activities for the year ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, we had cash and cash
equivalents of RMB2,141.4 million (US$301.6 million). Our cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash consist primarily of cash in
multiple banks and on hand. Historically, we have financed our operations principally through proceeds from the issuance and sale of
preferred shares and convertible promissory notes in private placement transactions, and we also received total net proceeds of
approximately US$105.3 million from our initial public offering. In September 2020, we entered into definitive subscription agreements
with a consortium of institutional investors to raise approximately US$418 million through a private placement. The private placement
consists of (i) the sale to the institutional investors of approximately US$418 million of our 29,133,502 ordinary shares (equivalent to
12,666,740 ADSs) at a purchase price equivalent to US$33 per ADS; and (ii) warrants to subscribe for an aggregate of 5,341,267
ordinary shares (equivalent to 2,322,290 ADSs) at an exercise price equivalent to US$45 per ADS, which were fully exercised in 2021
and increased the proceeds by approximately US$104.5 million.
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The following table sets forth a summary of our cash flows for the periods presented:
For the Year Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
US$
(in thousands)
Summary Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow Data:
Net cash (used in)/generated from operating activities
Net cash (used in)/generated from investing activities
Net cash generated from financing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash
Net (decrease)/increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of the year
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of the year
(973,093)
(727,206)
593,924
(128,771)
(1,235,146)
4,758,778
3,523,632
(1,102,805)
458,382
42,357
389,203
(212,863)
3,523,632
3,310,769
(1,304,950)
102,515
7,572
84,452
(1,110,411)
3,310,769
2,200,358
(183,798)
14,439
1,066
11,896
(156,397)
466,311
309,914
We do not expect to generate any revenue from the sales of our products unless and until we obtain regulatory approval of and
commercialize one of our current or future drug candidates. We anticipate that we will continue to generate losses for the foreseeable
future, and we expect the losses to increase as we continue the development of, and seek regulatory approvals for, our drug candidates
and begin to commercialize any approved products. In addition, subject to obtaining regulatory approval of any of our drug candidates,
we expect to incur significant commercialization expenses for product sales, marketing and manufacturing. Accordingly, we anticipate
that we will need substantial additional funding in connection with our continuing operations.
Based on our current operating plan, we believe that our current cash and cash equivalents will be sufficient to meet our current and
anticipated working capital requirements and capital expenditures for at least the next 12 months. During this period, we expect that our
expenses will decrease following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, due to a streamlined operating
model with less employees and a more focused pipeline strategy. We have based our estimates on assumptions that may prove to be
wrong, and we may use our available capital resources sooner than we currently expect. Because of the numerous risks and uncertainties
associated with the development and commercialization of our drug candidates, we are unable to estimate the amounts of increased
capital outlays and operating expenditures necessary to complete the development and commercialization of our drug candidates.
We may decide to enhance our liquidity position or increase our cash reserve for future operations and investments through
additional financing. The issuance and sale of additional equity would result in further dilution to our shareholders and ADS holders, and
the terms of these securities may include liquidation or other preferences that adversely affect your rights as an ADS holder. The
incurrence of indebtedness would result in increased fixed obligations and could result in operating covenants that would restrict our
operations, which could potentially dilute your interest. If we raise additional funds through collaborations, strategic alliances or
licensing arrangements with third parties, we may have to relinquish valuable rights to our technologies, future revenue streams or
research programs or to grant licenses on terms that may not be favorable to us. If we are unable to raise additional funds through equity
or debt financings when needed, we may be required to delay, limit, reduce or terminate our product development or future
commercialization efforts or grant rights to develop and market products or drug candidates that we would otherwise prefer to develop
and market ourselves.
As of December 31, 2023, 6.3% of our cash and cash equivalents were denominated in RMB and held in China. We expect that the
majority of our cash and cash equivalents will be denominated in U.S. dollars and held in the U.S. in the near future. We also expect that
the majority of our future revenues and additional fund raising will be denominated in U.S. dollars to support our future working capital
requirements and capital expenditures outside of China. However, some events that are beyond our control may materially and adversely
affect our ability to raise additional capital in future and our liquidity. See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to
Our Industry, Business and Operations—Our business and results of operations could be adversely affected by public health crisis and
natural catastrophes or other disasters outside of our control in the locations in which we, our suppliers, CROs, contract manufacturing
organizations and other contractors operate.”
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Operating Activities
Net cash used in operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was RMB1,305.0 million (US$183.8 million). Our net
loss was RMB1,465.7 million (US$206.4 million) for the same period. The difference between our net loss and our net cash used in
operating activities was primarily attributable to certain non-cash expenses, including equity in loss of affiliates of RMB80.0 million
(US$11.3 million), impairment of goodwill of RMB162.6 million (US$22.9 million) and share-based compensation of RMB193.0
million (US$27.2 million), and changes in certain working capital items, including a decrease in accruals and other payables of
RMB342.7 million (US$48.3 million) and a decrease of lease liabilities of RMB22.1 million (US$3.1 million), partially offset by a
decrease in prepayments and other receivables of RMB35.9 million (US$5.1 million) and an increase in contract liabilities of RMB17.8
million (US$2.5 million). The change in share-based compensation was attributable to the grant of stock options to certain directors and
employees of our company under our share incentive plans.
Net cash used in operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 was RMB1,102.8 million. Our net loss was RMB2,507.3
million for the same period. The difference between our net loss and our net cash used in operating activities was primarily attributable to
certain non-cash expenses, including equity in loss of affiliates of RMB437.5 million and share-based compensation of RMB357.1
million, and changes in certain working capital items, including a decrease of a contract assets of RMB253.8 million, an increase in
accruals and other payables of RMB109.9 million, a decrease in prepayments and other receivables of RMB109.2 million, and an
increase in contract liabilities of RMB52.6 million, partially offset by a decrease of lease liabilities of RMB35.7 million. The change in
share-based compensation was attributable to the grant of stock options to certain directors and employees of our company under our
share incentive plans.
Net cash used in operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2021 was RMB973.1 million. Our net loss was RMB2,331.5
million for the same period. The difference between our net loss and our net cash used in operating activities was primarily attributable to
certain non-cash expenses, including share-based compensation of RMB608.6 million and equity in loss of affiliates of RMB367.9
million, and changes in certain working capital items, including an increase in the contract liabilities of RMB224.0 million and an
increase in accruals and other payables of RMB152.1 million, partially offset by an increase of inventories of RMB27.2 million and an
increase of contract assets of RMB26.4 million. The change in share-based compensation was attributable to the grant of stock options to
certain directors and employees of our company under our share incentive plans.
Investing Activities
Net cash generated from investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was RMB102.5 million (US$14.4 million). The
net cash increase was primarily attributable to RMB1,005.2 million (US$141.6 million) of the proceeds from disposal of short-term and
other investments, partially offset by RMB885.6 million (US$124.7 million) of the cash used in the purchase of short-term and other
investments.
Net cash generated from investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 was RMB458.4 million. The net cash increase
was primarily attributable to RMB7,911.5 million of the proceeds from disposal of short-term and other investments, partially offset by
RMB7,407.3 million of the cash used in the purchase of short-term and other investments.
Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2021 was RMB727.2 million. The net cash decrease was
primarily attributable to RMB10,173.3 million of purchase of short-term investments, partially offset by RMB9,482.0 million of
proceeds from disposal of short-term investments.
Financing Activities
Net cash generated from financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was RMB7.5 million (US$1.1 million), primarily
attributable to the proceeds from bank borrowings of RMB118.9 million (US$16.7 million), partially offset by the repayment of bank
borrowings of RMB48.9 million (US$6.9 million) and RMB61.3 million (US$8.6 million) of the cash used in the payment of stock
repurchase.
Net cash generated from financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 was RMB42.4 million, primarily attributable to
the proceeds from exercise of stock options of RMB44.7 million and the proceeds from bank borrowings of RMB19.0 million, partially
offset by RMB21.2 million of the cash used in the payment of stock repurchase.
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Net cash generated from financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2021 was RMB593.9 million, primarily attributable to
the proceeds from exercise of warrants of RMB672.7 million, partially offset by payments of the issuance cost in relation to private
placement of RMB128.8 million.
Material Cash Requirements
Contractual Obligation
Our material cash requirements as of December 31, 2023 and any subsequent interim period primarily include our operating lease
obligations, purchase obligations and other commitments.
Our capital expenditures were incurred for purposes of purchasing property, equipment and software. Our capital expenditures were
RMB29.9 million. RMB45.8 million and RMB11.4 million (US$1.6 million) in the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023,
respectively.
The following table sets forth our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2023:
Total
Less Than
1 Year
1-3
Years
3-5
Years
More Than
5 Years
RMB US$ RMB
US$ RMB US$ RMB US$ RMB US$
(in thousands)
Operating lease commitments
Purchase obligations
Other commitments
50,003
—
—
7,042
—
—
22,949 3,232
12,580
—
—
—
—
—
—
1,771
—
—
9,649
—
—
1,359
—
—
4,825
—
—
680
—
—
Our operating lease commitments relate to leases for our office premises and lab space pursuant to non-cancellable operating lease
agreements. Other than as shown above, we did not have any significant capital and other commitments, long-term obligations or
guarantees as of December 31, 2023.
We entered into certain unconditional purchase obligations and other commitments in the normal course of business. There have
been no changes to these commitments that would have a material impact on our ability to meet either short-term or long-term future
cash requirements.
We have not entered into any financial guarantees or other commitments to guarantee the payment obligations of any third parties. In
addition, we have not entered into any derivative contracts that are indexed to our shares and classified as shareholder’s equity or that are
not reflected in our consolidated financial statements. Furthermore, we do not have any retained or contingent interest in assets
transferred to an unconsolidated entity that serves as credit, liquidity or market risk support to such entity. We do not have any variable
interest in any unconsolidated entity that provides financing, liquidity, market risk or credit support to us or engages in leasing, hedging
or product development services with us.
Other than as discussed above, we did not have any significant capital and other commitments, long-term obligations or guarantees
as of December 31, 2023. We have a contingent obligation to repurchase the equity held by certain investors in the period beyond 12
months. For a detailed description of this contingent obligation, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—A. History and Development
of the Company.”
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Collaborations, Licensing and Other Arrangements
We entered into collaborative, licensing, and other arrangements with third parties that may require future milestone payments to
third parties contingent upon the achievement of certain development, regulatory, or commercial milestones. Individually, these
arrangements are insignificant in any one annual reporting period. However, if milestones for multiple products covered by these
arrangements would happen to be reached in the same reporting period, the aggregate charge to expense could be material to the results
of operations in that period. From a business perspective, the payments are viewed as positive because they signify that the product is
successfully moving through development and is now generating or is more likely to generate future cash flows from product sales. It is
not possible to predict with reasonable certainty whether these milestones will be achieved or the timing for achievement. See Note 14
“Licensing and Collaboration Arrangements” of our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report for
additional information on these collaboration arrangements.
Holding Company Structure
We are a holding company with no material operations of its own. Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business
operations, we currently conduct our operations primarily through our subsidiary in the United States and only a small portion of
business operations in China through our PRC subsidiary. As a result, our ability to pay dividends depends upon dividends paid by our
U.S. and PRC subsidiaries. In the event that we may rely on dividends paid by our PRC subsidiary, there are certain limitations imposed
by debt instruments or PRC laws, rules and regulations. For details, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—
Regulation—PRC Regulation—Regulations Relating to Foreign Exchange and the Dividend Distribution” and “Item 3. Key information
—D. Risk Factors—General Risks Related to Our ADSs—Because we do not expect to pay dividends in the foreseeable future, you must
rely on price appreciation of our ADSs for return on your investment.”
C. Research and Development, Patents and Licenses, Etc.
Sec “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Intellectual Property.”
D. Trend Information
Other than as disclosed elsewhere in this annual report, we are not aware of any trends, uncertainties, demands, commitments or
events for the period since January 1, 2024 that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on our net revenues, income,
profitability, liquidity or capital resources, or that caused the disclosed financial information to be not necessarily indicative of future
operating results or financial conditions.
E. Critical Accounting Estimates
For our critical accounting estimates, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—A. Operating Results—Critical
Accounting Policies and Significant Judgments and Estimates.”
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ITEM 6.
DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES
A. Directors and Senior Management.
The following table sets forth information regarding our directors and executive officers as of the date of this annual report.
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Raj Kannan
Wei Fu
Shuai Chen
Chun Kwok Alan Au
Conor Chia-hung Yang
Pamela M. Klein, M.D.
Ruyi He, M.D.
Rong Shao, Ph.D.
Joseph Skelton
AGE
POSITION/TITLE
60
42
50
51
61
62
63
61
33
Director and Chief Executive Officer
Director
Director
Independent Director
Independent Director
Independent Director and interim Chairperson of the Board of
Directors
Independent Director
Independent Director
Chief Financial Officer
Raj Kannan has served as our director and chief executive officer since June 2023. Mr. Kannan has over 30 years of industry
experience in creating and developing global specialty medicine franchises. He has effectively led and grown organizations and
supported multiple successful launches across therapeutic areas in the U.S. and globally. Mr. Kannan currently serves as an independent
director of Valinor Pharma, LLC. Prior to joining us, he served as the chief executive officer and director of Aerie Pharmaceuticals from
December 2021 to November 2022 and led the successful merger of Aerie Pharmaceuticals to Alcon, Inc. where the all-cash transaction
was consummated in mid-November 2022. Prior to joining Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Mr. Kannan was the chief executive officer and the
president of Chiasma, Inc., where he led the organization through the approval and the launch of the first oral therapy in over a decade
for patients with acromegaly and subsequently through the acquisition by Amryt Pharma Plc. After that, he served as an independent
director of Amryt Pharmaceuticals from August 2021 to April 2023 when it was acquired by Chiesi. From July 2018 to June 2019, Mr.
Kannan served as the chief commercial officer at Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals, where he built the commercial operations, including sales,
marketing and business analytics functions, and from June 2014 to May 2018, he served as the global head of the Neurology and
Immunology business franchise at Merck KGaA, where he led and revitalized the largest franchise through significant strategic shifts and
recalibration of pipeline investments, turning it into a high-growth business generating $2 billion in annual revenues. Prior to that, Mr.
Kannan accumulated a decade of experience at Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH in the United States, Canada, and Germany
and held various positions, including the global marketing head of the Cardiovascular Franchise. Mr. Kannan received his M.B.A. from
East Carolina University in the United States in May 1990 and his bachelor’s degree from the University of Madras in India in May
1984.
Wei Fu has served as our director since June 2018. Mr. Fu was appointed by the C-Bridge entities pursuant to our shareholders
agreement dated July 6, 2018. Mr. Fu has served as the chief executive officer and a managing partner of CBC Group since April 2014.
Mr. Fu currently also serves on the board of Everest Medicines Limited (HKEX: 1952) and several private companies. From August
2011 to December 2013, Mr. Fu served as the general manager of the investment department at Far East Horizon International, a
financial services organization. Mr. Fu served as a partner and the head of the Beijing office of Themes Investment Management Ltd, a
private equity firm specializing in healthcare and environmental businesses, from July 2010 to July 2011. From March 2008 to April
2010, Mr. Fu worked as an associate director of the private equity department at Standard Chartered Business Consulting (Beijing) Co.,
Ltd, where he was mainly responsible for private equity investment in relation to infrastructure projects. Mr. Fu received his bachelor’s
degree in electrical engineering and business administration from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore in February 2005.
Shuai Chen, has served as our director since April 2023. Mr. Chen joined Hony Capital in 2003 and is currently a partner and
managing director of Hony Capital and managing director of Hony private equity investment fund. Mr. Chen is also a member of the
investment committee of Hony real estate investment fund. Mr. Chen has extensive experience in investment management, supplier
management and retail business. Currently, Mr. Chen also serves as a non-executive director of Century Ginwa Retail Holdings Limited
(HKEX: 0162) and an executive director, chairman of the board and acting chief executive officer of Hospital Corporation of China
Limited (HKEX: 3869). Mr. Chen received a Master of Business Administration degree from China Europe International Business
School in 2010 and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Beijing Forestry University in 1997.
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Chun Kwok Alan Au has served as our director since January 2020. Mr. Au is the founder of GT Healthcare, a private equity fund
focusing on cross border healthcare investments, and has served as the managing partner of GT Healthcare since September 2015. Mr.
Au has served as a member of the board, and the chairman of the audit committee of CSPC Pharmaceutical Group (HKEX: 1093), a
leading pharmaceutical group in China, since January 2021. Mr. Au also has served as a panel member for the Entrepreneur Support
Scheme (ESS Program) of the Innovation and Technology Fund of the Hong Kong SAR Government since 2014. Mr. Au was an advisor
to Simcere Pharmaceutical Group, a leading pharmaceutical company in China (previously listed on NYSE: SCR, privatized in
December 2013, when Mr. Au served as chairman of the special committee on the board of directors). Mr. Au was also a member of the
board of China Nepstar Chain Drugstore Ltd. (NYSE: NPD, privatized in September 2016) from March 2013 to August 2016. He was
also a member of the board of Cellular BioMedicine Group (Nasdaq: CBMG, privatized in February 2021), a clinical-stage
biopharmaceutical firm engaged in the development of immunotherapies for cancer and stem cell therapies from November 2014 to
February 2021. Prior to these, Mr. Au served as the head of the Asia Healthcare Investment Banking of Deutsche Bank Group, advising
healthcare IPOs and M&A in the region from April 2011 to December 2012. Prior to that, Mr. Au served as the executive director at
JAFCO Asia Investment Group, responsible for healthcare investments in China from 2008 to 2010. Mr. Au worked at Morningside
Group as a director in charge of healthcare investments in Asia from 2000 to 2005. Mr. Au also worked at KPMG and KPMG Corporate
Finance from 1995 to 1999. Mr. Au received his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Chinese University of Hong Kong in 1995 and his
master’s degree in management from Columbia Business School in New York in 2007. Mr. Au is a certified public accountant (CPA) in
the U.S. and a chartered financial analyst (CFA). He is a member of the Hong Kong Institute of Financial Analysts and member of the
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
Conor Chia-hung Yang has served as our director since January 2020. Mr. Yang has been the chief financial officer of Ehang
Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: EH) since September 2023. During the period spanning 2007 to 2023, Mr. Yang held several chief financial
officer positions at different times in Tuniu Corporation (Nasdaq: TOUR), E-Commerce China Dangdang Inc., and AirMedia Group Inc.,
currently known as AirNet Technology Inc., (Nasdaq: ANTE). Prior to that, Mr. Yang was the chief executive officer of Rock Mobile
Corporation from 2004 to 2007. From 1999 to 2004, Mr. Yang was the chief financial officer of the Asia Pacific region for CellStar Asia
Corporation. Between 1992 and 1999, Mr. Yang held positions at different times in Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C., Lehman Brothers Asia
Limited and Morgan Stanley Asia Limited. Mr. Yang currently also serves as an independent director of iQIYI, Inc. (Nasdaq: IQ),
Tongcheng Travel Holdings Limited (HKEX: 0780), UP Fintech Holding Ltd (Nasdaq: TIGR) and Smart Share Global Ltd (Nasdaq:
EM). Mr. Yang received his master’s degree in business administration from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1992.
Pamela M. Klein, M.D., has served as our director since January 2020 and our interim chairperson of the board of directors since
February 2024. Dr. Klein currently a director of argenx SE (Nasdaq: ARGX) since April 2016, a director of Patrys Limited (ASX: PAB)
since October 2019 and a director of Frontier Medicines (private) since January 2023. She previously served as a director of Spring Bank
Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq: SBPH); F-Star (Nasdaq: FSTR) and Jiya Acquisition Corp (Nasdaq: JYAC). In addition, Dr. Klein has served
as the president at PMK BioResearch since 2008, offering consultancy in Oncology Drug Development to Biotech, Pharma and the
Investment Community. Dr. Klein has also served as the consulting chief medical officer at Olema Oncology since 2018. Previously, Dr.
Klein served as chief medical officer for successful biotech start-ups and prior to that, Vice President, Genentech, Development. Dr.
Klein received her bachelor’s degree in cell and molecular biology from California State University in 1985 and an M.D. from Stritch
School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago in 1992 followed by an internal medicine residency at Cedars Sinai, Los Angeles. Dr.
Klein spent seven years at the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland in medical oncology.
Ruyi He, M.D., has served as our director since June 2021. Dr. He is the chief medical officer of RemeGen Inc and Venture Partner
of SDIC Fund Management Co., the former Chief Scientist at the Center for Drug Evaluation at the National Medical Products
Administration of the PRC, or the NMPA. He joined the NMPA in 2016, after having worked at the FDA for almost two decades. As the
first overseas expert hired by NMPA as the Chief Scientist, Dr. He organized and led many NMPA reforms on the drug evaluation
system. In addition to establishing guidance for drug evaluation and approvals in China, Dr. He has also introduced multiple international
policies into the NMPA, including conditional approval and acceptance of clinical data from abroad. Dr. He received his medical degree
from China Medical University. Dr. He received his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in medical from China Medical University in
1983 and 1986, respectively, and his M.D. in Internal Medicine from Howard University in 1999. He completed his residency training in
Internal Medicine at Howard University Hospital in Washington DC and received his clinical and research training at the National
Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. Dr. He is a licensed,
board-certified physician in Internal Medicine in the United States.
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Rong Shao, Ph.D., has served as our director since June 2021. Dr. Shao is a professor of drug administration policies and regulations,
the Executive Deputy Director of the Research Center of National Drug Policy & Ecosystem and the Director of the NMPA Key
Laboratory of Drug Regulatory Innovation and Evaluation, at China Pharmaceutical University. Dr. Shao has been engaged in the
research and education of drug policies and regulations for more than three decades and has contributed to the development of China’s
drug regulatory innovation and reform, including serving as an expert committee member for NMPA in the revision of Drug
Administration Law (2019). Dr. Shao is currently a board member and the committee chair in academic associations, such as the China
Pharmaceutical Association and the China Society for Drug Regulation. She is also an editorial board member of China Pharmacy,
Chinese Journal of New Drugs, and Chinese Journal of Health Policy. Dr. Shao holds a Ph.D. in Pharmacy Administration from
Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, bachelor’s degree in Medicinal Chemistry from China Pharmaceutical University, and bachelor’s
degree in Law from Nanjing University. Dr. Shao is also a Chinese practicing lawyer.
Joseph Skelton has served as our chief financial officer since February 2024. Mr. Skelton has nearly ten years of investment banking
experience with a focus on the life sciences vertical. He has served as a senior vice president in the healthcare investment banking group
at Truist Securities, covering the biopharma sector since May 2021. During his tenure at Truist, he served on many of the franchise-
making deals of the healthcare group across both M&A advisory as well as strategic capital raising, focusing on providing strategic and
financial advice to life sciences companies. Prior to joining Truist, Mr. Skelton served as an investment banker of the healthcare
investment banking group at Cantor Fitzgerald from April 2020 to May 2021, focusing on providing M&A advisory services as well as
strategic capital raising. Mr. Skelton also worked in the corporate development department at Amneal Pharmaceuticals from September
2019 to April 2020, responsible for exercising strategic initiatives of Amneal. Prior to joining Amneal, Mr. Skelton served as an associate
of the healthcare investment banking group at Cantor Fitzgerald from July 2018 to September 2019. From June 2017 to July 2018, he
served as an investment banking analyst and associate at Janney Montgomery Scott. From July 2015 to June 2017, he served as an
analyst at Ernst and Young. Mr. Skelton obtained his master’s degree in accounting in 2015 and his bachelor’s degree in business and
economics in 2013, both from Lehigh University.
Our Scientific Advisory Board
The members of our scientific advisory board provide scientific, portfolio and project strategy advice to us, including the evaluation
of research and development strategies. The members of our scientific advisory board receive cash compensation for their services.
Howard Weiner, M.D., has served on our scientific advisory board since July 2019. Dr. Weiner is the Robert L. Kroc Professor of
Neurology at the Harvard Medical School, Director of the Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center and Co-Director of Center for Neurologic
Diseases at Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston. The Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center is the first integrated multiple sclerosis
center that combines clinical care, MRI imaging and immune monitoring to the multiple sclerosis patient as part of the 2000 patient
CLIMB cohort study. Dr. Weiner has pioneered immunotherapy in multiple sclerosis and has investigated immune mechanisms in
nervous system diseases including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke and brain tumors. Dr.
Weiner has also pioneered the investigation of the mucosal immune system for the treatment of autoimmune and other diseases and the
use of anti-CD3 to induce regulatory T cells for the treatment of these diseases.
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Patricia LoRusso, D.O., M.A., Ph.D., has served on our scientific advisory board since July 2019. Dr. LoRusso is currently a
professor of medicine and a clinical scholar in medical oncology and Associate Director of Innovative Medicine at Yale Cancer Center in
New Haven, Connecticut, USA, where she is also Director of Early Therapeutics Disease-Aligned Team. Dr. LoRusso’s expertise is in
testing new treatments on patient volunteers with advanced-stage cancer. She heads the early clinical trials program at Yale Cancer
Center. She has served as the co-leader of the Stand Up To Cancer/Melanoma Research Alliance-funded Melanoma Dream Team, a
Komen Promise grant co-Principal Investigator, and has been a Principal Investigator of the National Cancer Institute Phase 1/early
phase clinical trials program grant in excess of 20 years. She is currently primary investigator or co-investigator of numerous clinical
trials. Prior to joining Yale in August 2014, Dr. LoRusso served in numerous leadership roles at Wayne State University’s Barbara
Karmanos Cancer Institute for more than 25 years, most recently as director of the Phase 1 Clinical Trials Program and of the Eisenberg
Center for Experimental Therapeutics. Dr. LoRusso also worked as a director in Karmanos Cancer Institute, a cancer research and
provider network, from 1997 to 2014. Dr. LoRusso received her B.A. degree of science in religion/religious studies and biology, her
master’s degree at Yale University, her D.O. and Ph.D. from Michigan State University, and completed fellowship training at Wayne
State University. Dr. LoRusso served as co-chair of the investigational drug steering committee of the National Cancer Institute Cancer
Therapy Evaluation Program, a prior parent member of the quick trials clinical subcommittee of the National Cancer Institute, and has
served as either an ad hoc or an appointed member on multiple study sections and has reviewed for Komen Promise grants, numerous
SPORE and P01 study sections, and translational research grants. She has served on the education and scientific committees of the
American Society of Clinical Oncology, the Scientific Committee of the American Association for Cancer Research as well as a Vice-
Chair for the 2019 AACR annual meeting. She is a member of the Board of Scientific Council of the National Cancer Institute and has
served on the Board of Directors for the American Association for Cancer Research.
Timothy Yap, M.D., Ph.D., has served on our scientific advisory board since August 2019. Dr. Yap is a medical oncologist and
physician-scientist based at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. He is an Associate Professor in the Department for
Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase I Program), and the Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology. Dr. Yap is
the Medical Director of the Institute for Applied Cancer Science, a drug discovery biopharmaceutical unit where drug discovery and
clinical translation are seamlessly integrated. He is also the Associate Director of Translational Research in the Institute for Personalized
Cancer Therapy, which is an integrated research and clinical trials program aimed at implementing personalized cancer therapy and
improving patient outcomes. Prior to his current position, Dr. Yap was a Consultant Medical Oncologist at The Royal Marsden Hospital
in London, UK and National Institute for Health Research BRC Clinician Scientist at The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK. Dr.
Yap gained his BSc degree with First Class Honors in Immunology and Infectious Diseases at Imperial College London, UK, and was
awarded the Huggett Memorial Prize. His BSc laboratory research involved an immunogenetics study under the supervision of Professor
Charles Bangham. He subsequently went on to attain his Medical degree from Imperial College London, UK, before completing general
medical training in Oxford. Dr. Yap’s main research focuses on the first-in-human and combinatorial development of molecularly
targeted agents and immunotherapies, and their acceleration through clinical studies using novel predictive and pharmacodynamic
biomarkers. Dr. Yap leads immune-oncology clinical and associated translational studies, including novel agents targeting PD-1/PD-L1,
ICOS, IDO, LAG3, TIM3, STING, TGFbeta, adenosine A2A receptor and fucosylation. He was previously the UK Chief Investigator for
the CheckMate 331 Phase III trial in relapsed small cell lung cancer and the KEYNOTE-158 Phase II biomarker study in advanced solid
tumors and multiple novel immunotherapy combination phase I trials.
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Roy S. Herbst, M.D., Ph.D., has served on our scientific advisory board since July 2019. Dr. Roy S. Herbst is an Ensign Professor of
Medicine (Medical Oncology) and Professor of Pharmacology, the Chief of Medical Oncology at Yale Cancer Center and Smilow Cancer
Hospital, and an Associate Cancer Center Director for Translational Research, Yale Cancer Center in New Haven, CT. Dr. Herbst is
nationally recognized for his leadership and expertise in lung cancer treatment and research. He is best known for his work in
developmental therapeutics and the personalized therapy of non-small cell lung cancer, in particular the process of linking genetic
abnormalities of cancer cells to novel therapies. Prior to his appointment at Yale, Dr. Herbst was the Barnhart Distinguished Professor
and Chief of the Section of Thoracic Medical Oncology in the Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, at The
University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. He also served as Professor in the Department of Cancer Biology
and Co-Director of the Phase I Clinical Trials Program. He has led the Phase I development of several of the new generation of targeted
agents for non-small cell lung cancer, including gefitinib, erlotinib, cetuximab, and bevacizumab. More recently, he participated in the
successful registration of pembrolizumab for the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer, following the successful Yale-led
KEYNOTE 10 study of the immune therapy drug commonly used to treat other cancers. He was co-leader for the BATTLE-1 clinical
trial program, co-leads the subsequent BATTLE-2 clinical trial program, and served as a Co-program Leader of the Developmental
Therapeutics Program for the YCC Support Grant. Dr. Herbst’s laboratory work is focused on immunotherapy angiogenesis; dual
epidermal growth factor receptor /vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibition in non-small cell lung cancer, and targeting
KRAS-activated pathways. More recently, he has explored predictive biomarkers for the use of immunotherapy agents. This work has
been translated from the preclinical to clinical setting in multiple Phase II and III studies which he has led. After earning a B.S. and M.S.
degree from Yale University, Dr. Herbst earned his M.D. at Cornell University Medical College and his Ph.D. in molecular cell biology
at the Rockefeller University in New York City, New York. His postgraduate training included an internship and residency in medicine at
Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. His clinical fellowships in medicine and hematology were completed at the
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, respectively. Subsequently, Dr. Herbst completed a M.S. degree in
clinical translational research at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Dr. Herbst is an author or co-author of more than 275
publications, including peer-reviewed journal articles, abstracts, and book chapters. His work has been published in many prominent
journals, such as the Journal of Clinical Oncology, Clinical Cancer Research, Lancet, the New England Journal of Medicine, and Nature.
Dr. Herbst was a member of the National Cancer Policy Forum from 1998 to 2014 for which he organized an Institute of Medicine
meeting focused on policy issues in personalized medicine. He is a member of ASCO and, as a member of American Association for
Cancer Research, he chairs the Tobacco Task Force. He is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and an elected member of the
Association of American Physicians. Dr. Herbst is also a member of the medical advisory committee for the Lung Cancer Research
Foundation and chair of the communications committee for ASCO and the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer. He is
currently the Vice Chair for Developmental Therapeutics for the SWOG’s lung committee, a principal investigator of the SWOG 0819
trial, and steering committee chair for the Lung Master Protocol.
B. Compensation.
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, we paid an aggregate of approximately US$7.4 million for salaries and benefits in
cash to our current and former executive officers, and an aggregate of approximately US$448 thousand for compensation in cash to our
independent directors. We did not pay any compensation to our directors who are not our independent directors or executive officers. We
have not set aside or accrued any amount to provide pension, retirement or other similar benefits to our executive officers and directors.
Our PRC subsidiary is required by law to make contributions equal to certain percentages of each employee’s salary for his or her
pension insurance, medical insurance, unemployment insurance and other statutory benefits and a housing provident fund.
Employment Agreements and Indemnification Agreements
We have entered into employment agreements with all of our executive officers. Under these agreements, each of our executive
officers is employed for a specified time period. We may terminate employment for cause, at any time, for certain acts of the executive
officer, such as continued failure to satisfactorily perform, willful misconduct or gross negligence in the performance of agreed duties,
conviction or nolo contendere plea of guilty to any felony or any misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, or dishonest act that result in
material harm to our detriment, or material breach by the executive officer of the employment agreement. We may also terminate an
executive officer’s employment without cause upon a 60-day prior written notice. In such case of termination by us, we will provide
severance payments to the executive officer as may be agreed between the executive officer and us. The executive officer may resign at
any time with a 60-day prior written notice.
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Under these agreements, each executive officer has agreed to hold, both during and after the termination or expiry of his or her
employment agreement, in strict confidence and not to use, except as required in the performance of his or her duties in connection with
the employment or pursuant to applicable law, any of our confidential information or trade secrets, any confidential information or trade
secrets of our clients or prospective clients, or the confidential or proprietary information of any third party received by us and for which
we have confidential obligations. The executive officers have also agreed to disclose in confidence to us all inventions, designs and trade
secrets which they conceive, develop or reduce to practice during the executive officer’s employment with us and to assign all right, title
and interest in them to us, and assist us in obtaining and enforcing patents, copyrights and other legal rights for these inventions, designs
and trade secrets.
In addition, under these agreements, each executive officer has agreed to be bound by non-competition and non-solicitation
restrictions during the term of his or her employment and typically for one year following the last date of employment. Specifically, each
executive officer has agreed not to (i) approach our suppliers, clients, direct or end customers or contacts or other persons or entities
introduced to the executive officer in his or her capacity as a representative of us for the purpose of doing business with such persons or
entities that will harm our business relationships with these persons or entities; (ii) assume employment with or provide services to any of
our competitors, or engage, whether as principal, partner, licensor or otherwise, any of our competitors, without our express consent; or
(iii) seek directly or indirectly, to solicit the services of any of our employees who is employed by us on or after the date of the executive
officer’s termination, or in the year preceding such termination, without our express consent.
We have also entered into indemnification agreements with each of our directors and executive officers. Under these agreements, we
agree to indemnify our directors and executive officers against certain liabilities and expenses incurred by such persons in connection
with claims made by reason of their being a director or officer of our company.
Share Incentive Plans
Second Amended and Restated 2017 Employee Stock Option Plan
In October 2017, we adopted an equity incentive plan (as last amended and restated in December 2019), which we refer to as the
2017 Plan, to secure and retain the services of valuable employees, directors or consultants, and provide incentives for such persons to
exert their best efforts for the success of our business. The maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares which may be issued pursuant
to all awards under the 2017 Plan is 9,609,084, subject to certain adjustments. As of April 15, 2024, options to purchase an aggregate of
1,108,636 ordinary shares under the 2017 Plan had been granted and remained outstanding, excluding options that were forfeited,
cancelled or exercised after the grant date.
The following paragraphs describe the principal terms of the 2017 Plan.
Types of awards. The 2017 Plan permits the awards of options.
Plan administration. Our board of directors administers the 2017 Plan. The board of directors determines, among other things, the
participants to receive options, the number and subscription price of options to be granted to each participant, and the terms and
conditions of each option granted.
Offer letter. Options granted under the 2017 Plan are evidenced by an offer letter that sets forth terms, conditions and limitations for
each option, which may include the term of the option, and the provisions applicable in the event that the grantee’s employment or
service terminates.
Eligible participants. We may grant awards to employees, officers, directors, contractors, advisors and consultants of our company.
Vesting schedule. Unless otherwise approved by the board of directors and set forth in an offer letter, the vesting schedule is a three-
year vesting schedule consisting of a cliff vesting 50% on the second anniversary of the applicable vesting commencement date, and a
vesting of the remaining 50% on the third anniversary of the applicable vesting commencement date. Except as otherwise approved by
the board of directors, vested portion of option becomes exercisable upon the earlier of a listing or the occurrence of a change in control.
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Exercise of options. The board of directors determines the subscription price for each option, which is stated in the offer letter. The
vested portion of each option will expire if not exercised prior to the time as the board of directors determines at the time of its grant.
However, the maximum exercisable term is ten years from the applicable vesting commencement date or such shorter period specified in
the award agreement. Further, an option will lapse upon the earliest of, among other circumstances, two years after the date when the
option becomes exercisable upon the listing or the occurrence of a change in control, and a violation in transfer restrictions.
Transfer restrictions. Options may not be transferred in any manner by the participant other than in accordance with the exceptions
provided in the 2017 Plan or the offer letter or otherwise determined by the board of directors, such as transfers by will or the laws of
descent and distribution.
Termination and amendment of the 2017 Plan. Unless terminated earlier, the 2017 Plan has a term of ten years. The board of
directors has the authority to amend, suspend or terminate the plan, subject to the limitations of applicable laws. No amendment,
suspension or termination may adversely affect in any material way any awards previously granted pursuant to the 2017 Plan unless
agreed to by the participant.
The following table summarizes, as of April 15, 2024, the number of ordinary shares underlying outstanding options that we granted
under the 2017 Plan, excluding options that were forfeited, cancelled or exercised after the grant date.
Name
Grantees
Total
Note:
Ordinary
Shares
Underlying
Outstanding
Options
Exercise
Price
(US$/Share)
*
1.00
1,108,636
Date of Grant
October 1, 2017 to
December 28, 2018
Date of
Expiration
October 1, 2027
*
Less than 1% of our total outstanding shares.
Second Amended and Restated 2018 Employee Stock Option Plan
In February 2019, we adopted an equity incentive plan (as last amended and restated in December 2019), which we refer to as the
2018 Plan, to secure and retain the services of valuable employees, directors or consultants, and provide incentives for such persons to
exert their best efforts for the success of our business. The maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares which may be issued pursuant
to all awards under the 2018 Plan is 11,005,888, subject to certain adjustments. As of April 15, 2024, awards to purchase an aggregate of
598,388 ordinary shares under the 2018 Plan had been granted and remained outstanding, excluding options that were forfeited,
cancelled or exercised after the grant date.
The following paragraphs describe the principal terms of the 2018 Plan.
Types of awards. The 2018 Plan permits the awards of options.
Plan administration. Our board of directors administers the 2018 Plan. The board of directors determines, among other things, the
participants to receive options, the number and subscription price of options to be granted to each participant, and the terms and
conditions of each option granted.
Offer letter. Options granted under the 2018 Plan are evidenced by an offer letter that sets forth terms, conditions and limitations for
each option, which may include the term of the option, and the provisions applicable in the event that the grantee’s employment or
service terminates.
Eligible participants. We may grant awards to employees or if approved by the board, designee of any employee.
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Vesting schedule. Unless otherwise approved by the board of directors and set forth in an offer letter, the vesting schedule is a two-
year vesting schedule consisting of a cliff vesting 50% on the first anniversary of the applicable vesting commencement date, and a
vesting of the remaining 50% on the second anniversary of the applicable vesting commencement date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if
a listing occurs at any time prior to any option granted under the 2018 Plan becoming full vested, and to the extent such option has been
granted and outstanding, any such option will vest in full with immediate effect upon the listing. Except as otherwise approved by the
board of directors, vested portion of option becomes exercisable upon the earlier of six months after a listing or the occurrence of a
change in control; provided, however that in each case, no option of an employee will become exercisable until the third anniversary of
such employee’s employment commencement date.
Exercise of options. The board of directors determines the subscription price for each option, which is stated in the offer letter. The
vested portion of each option will expire if not exercised prior to the time as the board of directors determines at the time of its grant.
However, the maximum exercisable term is ten years from the applicable vesting commencement date or such shorter period specified in
the award agreement. Further, an option will lapse upon the earliest of, among other circumstances, two years after the date when the
option becomes exercisable upon the listing or the occurrence of a change in control, and a violation in transfer restrictions.
Transfer restrictions. Options may not be transferred in any manner by the participant other than in accordance with the exceptions
provided in the 2018 Plan or the offer letter or otherwise determined by the board of directors, such as transfers by will or the laws of
descent and distribution.
Termination and amendment of the 2018 Plan. Unless terminated earlier, the 2018 Plan has a term of ten years. The board of
directors has the authority to amend, suspend or terminate the plan, subject to the limitations of applicable laws. No amendment,
suspension or termination may adversely affect in any material way any awards previously granted pursuant to the 2018 Plan unless
agreed to by the participant.
The following table summarizes, as of April 15, 2024, the number of ordinary shares underlying our outstanding options that we
granted under the 2018 Plan, excluding options that were forfeited, cancelled or exercised after the grant date.
Ordinary
Shares
Underlying
Outstanding
Options
*
598,388
Exercise
Price
(US$/Share)
1.00
Date of Grant
July 25, 2019
Date of
Expiration
February 22, 2029
Name
Grantees
Total
Note:
*
Less than 1% of our total outstanding shares.
2019 Share Incentive Plan
In October 2019, we adopted an equity incentive plan, which we refer to as 2019 Plan, to promote the success and enhance the value
of our company. Under the 2019 Plan, the maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares available for issuance is 100,000. As of April
15, 2024, no options under the 2019 Plan had been granted and remained outstanding, excluding options that were forfeited, cancelled or
exercised after the grant date.
The following paragraphs describe the principal terms of the 2019 Plan:
Type of Awards. The plan permits the awards of options, restricted shares, restricted share units or other types of awards approved by
the board of directors or a committee of one or more members of the board of directors.
Plan Administration. Our board of directors or a committee of one or more members of the board of directors administers the plan.
The committee or the board of directors, as applicable, determines the participants to receive awards, the type and number of awards to
be granted to each participant, and the terms and conditions of each grant
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Award Agreement. Awards granted under the plan are evidenced by an award agreement that sets forth the terms, conditions and
limitations for each award, which may include the term of the award, the provisions applicable in the event that the grantee’s
employment or service terminates, and our authority to unilaterally or bilaterally amend, modify, suspend, cancel or rescind the award.
Eligibility. We may grant awards to our independent directors, as determined by a committee of one or more members of the board
of directors. Vesting Schedule. In general, the plan administrator determines the vesting schedule, which is specified in the award
agreement.
Exercise of Options. The plan administrator determines the exercise price for each award, which is stated in the award agreement.
Options that are vested and exercisable will terminate if they are not exercised prior to the time as the plan administrator determines at
the time of grant. However, the maximum exercisable term is ten years from the date of grant.
Transfer Restrictions. Awards may not be transferred in any manner by the participant other than in accordance with the exceptions
provided in the plan or the award agreement or otherwise determined by the plan administrator, such as transfers by will or the laws of
descent and distribution.
Termination and Amendment of the Plan. Our board of directors has the authority to terminate, amend, suspend or modify the plan in
accordance with our articles of association. However, without the prior written consent of the participant, no such action may adversely
affect in any material way any award previously granted pursuant to the plan.
2020 Share Incentive Plan
In July 2020, we adopted 2020 Share Incentive Plan, which we refer to as the 2020 Plan, to promote the success and enhance the
value of our company. Under the 2020 Plan, the maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares which may be issued pursuant to all
awards is 10,760,513 ordinary shares; provided that the maximum number of ordinary shares may be issued pursuant to awards in the
form of restricted share units under the 2020 Plan should not exceed 7,686,081 ordinary shares. As of April 15, 2024, options to purchase
an aggregate of 2,054,670 ordinary shares and restricted share units to receive an aggregate of 23,580 ordinary shares under the 2020
Plan had been granted and remained outstanding, excluding awards that were forfeited, cancelled, exercised or vested after the grant date.
The following paragraphs describe the principal terms of the 2020 Plan:
Type of Awards. The plan permits the awards of options, restricted shares, restricted share units or other share-based awards.
Plan Administration. Our board of directors or one or more committees or subcommittees of the board of directors administer the
plan and determine the participants to receive awards, the type and number of awards to be granted to each participant, and the terms and
conditions of each grant.
Award Agreement. Awards granted under the plan are evidenced by an award agreement that sets forth the terms, conditions and
restrictions for each award, which may include the term of the award, the provisions applicable in the event that the grantee’s
employment or service terminates, and our authority to unilaterally or bilaterally amend, modify, suspend, cancel or rescind the award.
Eligibility. We may grant awards to our employees, directors and consultants of our company. However, we may grant options that
are intended to qualify as incentive share options only to our employees and employees of our subsidiaries.
Vesting Schedule. The options and restricted share units will vest according to the schedules specified in the plan, unless otherwise
determined by the plan administrator. The vesting schedule of other share-based awards should be determined by the plan administrator,
which is specified in the award agreement.
Exercise of Options. The plan administrator determines the exercise price for each award, which is stated in the award agreement.
Options that are vested and exercisable will terminate if they are not exercised prior to the time as the plan administrator determines at
the time of grant. However, the maximum exercisable term is ten years from the date of grant.
Transfer Restrictions. Awards may not be transferred in any manner by the participant other than in accordance with the exceptions
provided in the plan or the award agreement or otherwise determined by the plan administrator, such as transfers by will or the laws of
descent and distribution.
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Termination and Amendment of the Plan. Our board of directors has the authority to terminate, amend or modify the plan in
accordance with our articles of association.
The following table summarizes, as of April 15, 2024, the number of ordinary shares underlying outstanding options and restricted
share units that we granted under the 2020 Plan, excluding awards that were forfeited, cancelled, exercised or vested after the grant date.
Name
Grantees
Total
Notes:
Ordinary Shares
Underlying Options
and Restricted Share Exercise Price
Units
(US$/Share)
5.91
19.67
9.20
N/A
*
*
*
* (1)
Date of Grant
August 14, 2020 to January 11, 2021
April 1, 2021
March 4, 2022
August 14, 2020 to March 4, 2022
Date of Expiration
January 11, 2031
April 1, 2031
March 4, 2032
—
2,078,250
*
Less than 1% of our total outstanding shares.
(1) Represents restricted share units.
2021 Share Incentive Plan
In May 2021, we adopted 2021 Share Incentive Plan, which we refer to as the 2021 Plan, to promote the success and enhance the
value of our company. Under the 2021 Plan, the maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares which may be issued pursuant to all
awards is 12,023,618 ordinary shares; provided that the maximum number of ordinary shares may be issued pursuant to awards in the
form of restricted share units under the 2021 Plan should not exceed 6,011,809 ordinary shares. As of April 15, 2024, options to purchase
an aggregate of 2,175,326 ordinary shares and restricted share units to receive an aggregate of 390,655 ordinary shares under the 2021
Plan had been granted and remained outstanding, excluding awards that were forfeited, cancelled, exercised or vested after the grant date.
The following paragraphs describe the principal terms of the 2021 Plan:
Type of Awards. The plan permits the awards of options, restricted shares, restricted share units or other share-based awards.
Plan Administration. Our board of directors or one or more committees or subcommittees of the board of directors administer the
plan and determine the participants to receive awards, the type and number of awards to be granted to each participant, and the terms and
conditions of each grant.
Award Agreement. Awards granted under the plan are evidenced by an award agreement that sets forth the terms, conditions and
restrictions for each award, which may include the term of the award, the provisions applicable in the event that the grantee’s
employment or service terminates, and our authority to unilaterally or bilaterally amend, modify, suspend, cancel or rescind the award.
Eligibility. We may grant awards to our employees, directors and consultants of our company. However, we may grant options that
are intended to qualify as incentive share options only to our employees and employees of our subsidiaries.
Vesting Schedule. The options and restricted share units will vest according to the schedules specified in the plan, unless otherwise
determined by the plan administrator. The vesting schedule of other share-based awards should be determined by the plan administrator,
which is specified in the award agreement.
Exercise of Options. The plan administrator determines the exercise price for each award, which is stated in the award agreement.
Options that are vested and exercisable will terminate if they are not exercised prior to the time as the plan administrator determines at
the time of grant. However, the maximum exercisable term is ten years from the date of grant.
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Transfer Restrictions. Awards may not be transferred in any manner by the participant other than in accordance with the exceptions
provided in the plan or the award agreement or otherwise determined by the plan administrator, such as transfers by will or the laws of
descent and distribution.
Termination and Amendment of the Plan. Our board of directors has the authority to terminate, amend or modify the plan in
accordance with our articles of association.
The following table summarizes, as of April 15, 2024, the number of ordinary shares underlying outstanding options and restricted
share units that we granted under the 2021 Plan, excluding awards that were forfeited, cancelled, exercised or vested after the grant date.
Ordinary Shares
Underlying Options
and Restricted Share Exercise Price
Units
(US$/Share)
Date of Grant
Date of Expiration
—
N/A July 27, 2021 to May 23, 2023
July 27, 2031
July 27, 2021
March 4, 2022 March 4, 2032
January 4, 2033
January 4, 2023
26.39
9.20
6.20
* (1)
*
*
*
2,565,981
Name
Grantees
Total
Notes:
*
Less than 1% of our total outstanding shares.
(1) Represents restricted share units.
2022 Share Incentive Plan
In June 2022, we adopted 2022 Share Incentive Plan, which we refer to as the 2022 Plan, to promote the success and enhance the
value of our company. Under the 2022 Plan, the maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares which may be issued pursuant to all
awards is 13,148,594 ordinary shares; provided that the maximum number of ordinary shares may be issued pursuant to awards in the
form of restricted share units under the 2022 Plan should not exceed 5,478,577 ordinary shares. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if we
successfully complete extraordinary goals as approved by our board of directors, or such extraordinary goals are waived by our board of
directors, the maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares which may be issued pursuant to all awards is 15,340,034 ordinary shares;
provided that the maximum number of ordinary shares may be issued pursuant to awards in the form of restricted share units under the
2022 Plan should not exceed 7,670,017 ordinary shares. The maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares which may be issued
pursuant to all awards under the 2022 Plan shall be proportionately adjusted in the event of any share dividend, subdivision,
reclassification, recapitalization, split, reverse split, combination, consolidation or similar transactions. As of April 15, 2024, options to
purchase an aggregate of 2,695,271 ordinary shares and restricted share units to receive an aggregate of 446,262 ordinary shares under
the 2022 Plan had been granted and remained outstanding, excluding awards that were forfeited, cancelled, exercised or vested after the
grant date.
The following paragraphs describe the principal terms of the 2022 Plan:
Type of Awards. The plan permits the awards of options, restricted shares, restricted share units or other share-based awards.
Plan Administration. Our board of directors or any authorized officer to the extent that the Board’s powers or authority under the
Plan have been delegated to such officer administers the plan and determines the participants to receive awards, the type and number of
awards to be granted to each participant, and the terms and conditions of each grant.
Award Agreement. Awards granted under the plan are evidenced by an award agreement that sets forth the terms, conditions and
restrictions for each award, which may include the term of the award, the provisions applicable in the event that the grantee’s
employment or service terminates, and our authority to unilaterally or bilaterally amend, modify, suspend, cancel or rescind the award.
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Eligibility. We may grant awards to our employees, directors, consultants and other service providers of our company that our board
of directors or any authorized officer deems appropriate. However, we may grant options that are intended to qualify as incentive share
options only to our employees and employees of our subsidiaries.
Vesting Schedule. The plan administrator determines conditions and the time or times at which options and restricted share units may
be exercised in whole or part. The vesting schedule of other share-based awards should be determined by the plan administrator, which is
specified in the award agreement.
Exercise of Options. The plan administrator determines the price, conditions and time(s) for exercising each award, which is stated in
the award agreement. Options that are vested and exercisable will terminate if they are not exercised prior to the time as the plan
administrator determines at the time of grant. However, the maximum exercisable term is ten years from the date of grant.
Transfer Restrictions. Awards may not be transferred in any manner by the participant other than in accordance with the exceptions
provided in the plan or the award agreement or otherwise determined by the plan administrator, such as transfers by will or the laws of
descent and distribution.
Termination and Amendment of the Plan. Our board of directors has the authority to terminate, amend or modify the plan in
accordance with our articles of association.
The following table summarizes, as of April 15, 2024, the number of ordinary shares underlying outstanding options and restricted
share units that we granted under the 2022 Plan, excluding awards that were forfeited, cancelled, exercised or vested after the grant date.
Ordinary Shares
Underlying Options and
Exercise
Price
Restricted Share Units (US$/Share) Date of Grant
* (1)
2,372,696
*
3,141,533
N/A January 4, 2023
January 4, 2023
2.41
January 4, 2023
6.20
Date of Expiration
—
January 4, 2033
January 4, 2033
Name
Grantees
Total
Notes:
*
Less than 1% of our total outstanding shares.
(1) Represents restricted share units.
C. Board Practices.
As of the date of this annual report, our board of directors consists of eight directors. A director is not required to hold any shares in
our company by way of qualification. Subject to the Nasdaq Global Market rules and disqualification by the chairman of the board
meeting, a director may vote with respect to any contract, proposed contract or arrangement in which he is interested. A director who is
interested in a contract, proposed contract or arrangement should declare the nature of his or her interest at the earliest meeting of the
board at which it is practicable for him or her to do so, either specifically or by way of a general notice. The directors may exercise all
the powers of our company to borrow money, mortgage its undertaking, property and uncalled capital, and issue debentures or other
securities whenever money is borrowed or as security for any obligation of our company or of any third party. None of our directors who
are not our executive officers has a service contract with us that provides for benefits upon termination of service.
Committees of the Board of Directors
We have established four committees under the board of directors: an audit committee, a compensation committee, a nominating and
corporate governance committee, and an environmental, social and governance (ESG) committee. We have adopted a charter for each of
the four committees. Each committee’s members and functions are described below.
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Audit Committee. Our audit committee consists of Mr. Conor Chia-hung Yang, Mr. Chun Kwok Alan Au and Mr. Shuai Chen. Mr.
Conor Chia-hung Yang is the chairperson of our audit committee. We have determined that each of Mr. Conor Chia-hung Yang, Mr.
Chun Kwok Alan Au and Mr. Shuai Chen satisfies the “independence” requirements of Rule 5605(c)(2) of the Nasdaq Stock Market
Rules and meets the independence standards under Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act. We have determined that Mr. Conor Chia-hung
Yang qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert.” The audit committee oversees our accounting and financial reporting processes
and the audits of the financial statements of our company. The audit committee is responsible for, among other things:
● appointing the independent auditors and pre-approving all auditing and non-auditing services permitted to be performed by the
independent auditors;
● reviewing with the independent auditors any audit problems or difficulties and management’s response;
● discussing the annual audited financial statements with management and the independent auditors;
● reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of our accounting and internal control policies and procedures and any steps taken to
monitor and control major financial risk exposures;
● reviewing and approving all proposed related party transactions;
● meeting separately and periodically with management and the independent auditors; and
● monitoring compliance with our code of business conduct and ethics, including reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of our
procedures to ensure proper compliance.
Compensation Committee. Our compensation committee consists of Mr. Chun Kwok Alan Au, Dr. Pamela M. Klein, and Dr. Ruyi
He. Dr. Pamela M. Klein is the chairperson of our compensation committee. We have determined that each of Mr. Chun Kwok Alan Au,
Dr. Pamela M. Klein and Dr. Ruyi He satisfies the “independence” requirements of Rule 5605(a)(2) of the Nasdaq Stock Market Rules.
The compensation committee assists the board in reviewing and approving the compensation structure, including all forms of
compensation, relating to our directors and executive officers. Our chief executive officer may not be present at any committee meeting
during which his compensation is deliberated. The compensation committee is responsible for, among other things:
● reviewing and approving, or recommending to the board for its approval, the compensation for our chief executive officer and
other executive officers;
● reviewing and recommending to the board for determination with respect to the compensation of our directors who are not our
employees;
● reviewing periodically and approving any incentive compensation or equity plans, programs or similar arrangements; and
● selecting compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser only after taking into consideration all factors relevant to that
person’s independence from management.
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Our nominating and corporate governance committee consists of Mr. Wei Fu,
Mr. Chun Kwok Alan Au, Mr. Conor Chia-hung Yang and Dr. Rong Shao. Mr. Wei Fu is the chairperson of our nominating and corporate
governance committee. We have determined that each of Mr. Chun Kwok Alan Au, Mr. Conor Chia-hung Yang and Dr. Rong Shao
satisfies the “independence” requirements of Rule 5605(a)(2) of the Nasdaq Stock Market Rules. The nominating and corporate
governance committee assists the board of directors in selecting individuals qualified to become our directors and in determining the
composition of the board and its committees. The nominating and corporate governance committee is responsible for, among other
things:
● selecting and recommending to the board nominees for election by the shareholders or appointment by the board;
● reviewing annually with the board the current composition of the board with regards to characteristics such as independence,
knowledge, skills, experience and diversity;
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● making recommendations on the frequency and structure of board meetings and monitoring the functioning of the committees
of the board; and
● advising the board periodically with regards to significant developments in the law and practice of corporate governance as well
as our compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and making recommendations to the board on all matters of corporate
governance and on any corrective action to be taken.
Environmental, Social and Governance Committee. Our environmental, social and governance committee consists of Mr. Chun
Kwok Alan Au and Dr. Rong Shao. Mr. Chun Kwok Alan Au is the chairman of our environmental, social and governance committee.
We have determined that each of Mr. Chun Kwok Alan Au and Dr. Rong Shao satisfies the “independence” requirements of Rule 5605(a)
(2) of the Nasdaq Stock Market Rules. In addition, we have also established an ESG working group to address daily ESG workflows.
The environmental, social and governance committee is responsible for, among other things:
● supervising the ESG strategies, policies, long-term sustainability objectives and risks.
Duties of Directors
Under Cayman Islands law, our directors owe fiduciary duties to our company, including a duty of loyalty, a duty to act honestly, and
a duty to act in what they consider in good faith to be in our best interests. Our directors must also exercise their powers only for a proper
purpose. A director must exercise the skill and care of a reasonably diligent person having both (a) the general knowledge, skill and
experience that may reasonably be expected of a person in the same position (an objective test), and (b) if greater, the general knowledge,
skill and experience that that director actually possesses (a subjective test). In fulfilling their duty of care to us, our directors must ensure
compliance with our memorandum and articles of association, as amended from time to time, and the class rights vested thereunder in the
holders of the shares. Our company has the right to seek damages if a duty owed by our directors is breached. A shareholder may in
certain limited circumstances have the right to seek damages in our name if a duty owed by the directors is breached.
Our board of directors has all the powers necessary for managing, and for directing and supervising, our business affairs. The
functions and powers of our board of directors include:
● convening shareholders’ annual general meetings and reporting its work to shareholders at such meetings;
● declaring dividends and other distributions;
● appointing officers and determining the term of office of the officers;
● exercising the borrowing powers of our company and mortgaging the property of our company; and
● approving the transfer of shares in our company, including the registration of such shares in our share register.
Terms of Directors and Officers
Our directors may be elected by an ordinary resolution of our shareholders. Alternatively, our board of directors may, by the
affirmative vote of a simple majority of the directors present and voting at a board meeting appoint any person as a director to fill a
casual vacancy on our board or as an addition to the existing board. Our directors (other than independent directors) are not automatically
subject to a term of office and hold office until such time as they are removed from office by an ordinary resolution of our shareholders.
Our independent directors hold office until the earlier of (i) the date on which the independent director ceases to be a member of the
board for any reason; (ii) the date of termination of an independent director’s director agreement, which may be terminated by either the
independent director or by us with a 30-day advance written notice or such other shorter period as mutually agreed; or (iii) three years
from the effective date of the director agreement, subject to the terms of our current memorandum and articles of association of our
company. In addition, a director will cease to be a director if he or she (i) becomes bankrupt or makes any arrangement or composition
with his or her creditors; (ii) dies or is found to be or becomes of unsound mind; (iii) resigns his or her office by notice in writing;
(iv) without special leave of absence from our board, is absent from meetings of our board for three consecutive meetings and our board
resolves that his or her office be vacated; or (v) is removed from office pursuant to any other provision of our articles of association.
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Our officers are appointed by and serve at the discretion of the board of directors, and may be removed by our board of directors.
Under our articles of association, the board of directors may appoint one or more of their number to the office of managing director upon
like terms, but any such appointment should ipso facto terminate if any managing director ceases for any cause to be a director, or if our
company by ordinary resolution of shareholders resolves that his tenure of office be terminated. In addition, the board of directors may
appoint any natural person or corporation to be a secretary (and if need be an assistant secretary or assistant secretaries) who should hold
office for such term, at such remuneration and upon such conditions and with such powers as they think fit. Any secretary or assistant
secretary so appointed by the board of directors may be removed by the board of directors or by ordinary resolution of shareholders.
Board Diversity Matrix (As of April 15, 2024)
Board Diversity
Country of Principal Executive Offices:
Foreign Private Issuer
Disclosure Prohibited Under Home Country Law
Total Number of Directors
Part I: Gender Identity
Directors
Part II: Demographic Background
Underrepresented Individual in Home Country Jurisdiction
LGBTQ+
Did Not Disclose Demographic Background
D. Employees.
United States
Yes
No
8
Female
Male
Non-Binary Disclose Gender
Did Not
2
6
—
—
—
—
—
We had 378, 318 and 220 employees as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, 184
employees were located in China and 36 were located outside China. The table below sets forth our employees by function as of
December 31, 2023:
Management
Research and development
Chemistry, manufacturing and controls
General and administrative
Business and corporate development
Total
Number
11
130
29
44
6
220
We recruit our employees primarily through recruitment websites, recruiters, internal referrals and job fairs. Approximately 25% of
total employees were hired through internal referrals. We recruit our employees based on their qualification and potential. We promote
culture diversity, and our employees come from the United States, Taiwan and Canada, in addition to mainland China. We prohibit any
form of discrimination (including, but not limited to, employment, career development, salary, and benefits) on the basis of an
employees’ gender, race, age, physical condition, sexual orientation, marital status, or disability, so as to ensure a diverse and fair
corporate culture. We aim to be a role model in promoting female business leadership in the biotech industry. We have undertaken
multiple initiatives to encourage female leadership, including launching the I-Mab Women’s Leadership Council in July 2020.
Approximately 71% of our employees are female, of which 65% hold a master’s degree or above, while over 27% of our board of
directors are female. We are carrying out a series of female leadership development programs committed to women’s career and personal
development.
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We offer competitive salaries, benefits, and additional incentive to its employees. Employee compensation and benefits include
position-specific salary, bonus and allowance, statutory insurance, and housing employee benefit funds (for those in China), statutory
holidays, benefits and vacations, etc. In addition, we purchase additional commercial insurance for employees’ underaged children, as
well as a series of internal morale boosting incentive programs. We work to reward employees for exceptional performance. Our
employee awards include Project Awards, Quarterly Stars, Management Awards, etc., with the goal of creating a culture of recognition.
We provide new hire training to our employees and periodic on-the-job training to enhance the skills and knowledge of our
employees. We invest in employees’ career development and provide them opportunities to keep updating their skills and knowledge.
Our training system includes induction training for new employees, training on general knowledge, professional skills training, and
leadership training, among which, leadership training focuses on improving employees’ knowledge and ability in compliance
management, drug quality control, business audit, financial standard procedures, as well as female leadership development. We
encourage our employees to develop various training courses, and grade the content setting, applicability, practicability, and lecturer
quality of the courses, to continuously improve them through collecting and addressing feedbacks. We have not established a labor union.
We have not experienced any material labor disputes or strikes that may have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial
condition or results of operations.
We enter into standard confidentiality and employment agreements with all of our key management and research staff. The contracts
with our key personnel typically include a standard non-compete agreement that prohibits the employee from competing with us, directly
or indirectly, during his or her employment and for one year after the termination of his or her employment. The contracts also typically
include undertakings regarding assignment of innovations and discoveries made during the course of his or her employment. For further
details regarding the terms of confidentiality and employment agreements with our key management, see “Item 6. Directors, Senior
Management and Employees.”
E. Share Ownership.
The following table sets forth information with respect to the beneficial ownership of our ordinary shares as of April 15, 2024 by:
● each of our directors and executive officers; and
● each person known to us to own beneficially 5% or more of our total outstanding shares.
Percentage of beneficial ownership is based on 186,030,689 total outstanding ordinary shares as of April 15, 2024 (excluding
8,043,040 ordinary shares issued to our depositary bank for bulk issuance of ADSs reserved for future issuances upon the exercising or
vesting of awards granted under our share incentive plans).
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Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC. In computing the number of shares
beneficially owned by a person and the percentage ownership of that person, we have included shares that the person has the right to
acquire within 60 days, including through the exercise of any option, warrant or other right or the conversion of any other security. These
shares, however, are not included in the computation of the percentage ownership of any other person.
Directors and Executive Officers:**
Raj Kannan
Wei Fu (1)
Shuai Chen
Chun Kwok Alan Au
Conor Chia-hung Yang
Pamela M. Klein, M.D.
Ruyi He, M.D.
Rong Shao, Ph.D.
Joseph Skelton
All Directors and Executive Officers as a Group
Other Principal Shareholders:
C-Bridge entities (1)
T INVESTMENT LIMITED (2)
Hillhouse entities (3)
Notes:
Ordinary Shares
Beneficially Owned
Number
%
—
29,448,395
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
29,448,395
29,448,395
18,795,651
15,891,211
—
15.8
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
15.8
15.8
10.1
8.5
*
Less than 1% of our total ordinary shares on an as-converted basis outstanding as of April 15, 2024.
** Except as otherwise indicated below, the business address of our directors and executive officers is 2440 Research Blvd, Suite 400,
Rockville, MD 20850, the United States. The business address of Wei Fu is 88 Market Street, #46-04/05 Capitaspring, Singapore.
The business address of Mr. Shuai Chen is 25/F, Hexa International Plaza, No.9 Chaoyangmen North Street, Dongcheng District,
Beijing, China. The business address of Ruyi He is Unit 1506, Central Tower, China Overseas Plaza, No.8 Guanghua Dongli,
Chaoyang District, Beijing, China. The business address of Rong Shao is No. 24 Tongjiaxiang, Gulou District, Nanjing, Jiangsu
Province, China. The business address of Chun Kwok Alan Au is 22 Pottinger Street, Central, Hong Kong. The business address of
Conor Chia-hung Yang is 11/F, Building One, EHang Technology Park, No. 29 Bishan Blvd., Huangpu District, Guangzhou,
Guangdong Province, China. The business address of Pamela M. Klein is 231 Fort Mason, San Francisco, California 94123, the
United States.
(1) Represents (i) 1,583,280 ADSs and 10 ordinary shares directly held by IBC Investment Seven Limited, a Hong Kong limited
liability company, (ii) 2,423,720 ADSs and 4 ordinary shares directly held by CBC SPVII LIMITED, a Hong Kong limited liability
company, (iii) 5,123,540 ADSs and 22 ordinary shares directly held by CBC Investment I-Mab Limited, a British Virgin Islands
limited liability company, (iv) 1,030,230 ADSs and 17 ordinary shares directly held by C-Bridge II Investment Ten Limited, a
British Virgin Islands limited liability company, and (v) 6,078,571 ordinary shares directly held by Everest. IBC Investment Seven
Limited, CBC SPVII LIMITED, CBC Investment I-Mab Limited, C-Bridge II Investment Ten Limited, Everest are collectively
referred to as the C-Bridge entities. CBC Investment I-Mab Limited, C-Bridge II Investment Ten Limited and C-Bridge II
Investment Thirteen Limited are controlled by C-Bridge Healthcare Fund II, L.P., whose general partner is C-Bridge Healthcare
Fund GP II, L.P., and its general partner is C-Bridge Capital GP, Ltd. CBC SPVII Limited and IBC Investment Seven Limited are
controlled by I-Bridge Healthcare Fund, L.P., whose general partner is I-Bridge Healthcare GP, L.P., and its general partner is I-
Bridge Capital GP, Ltd., which is indirectly controlled by C-Bridge Capital GP, Ltd. Mr. Wei Fu is the sole director of C-Bridge
Capital GP, Ltd. Everest is a public company listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and controlled by funds which are under
common control of the C-Bridge group, which, in turn, is controlled by Mr. Wei Fu. Information regarding beneficial ownership is
reported as of December 31, 2022, based on the information contained in the Schedule 13G/A filed by the C-Bridge entities on
February 15, 2023. Please see the Schedule 13G/A filed by the C-Bridge entities with SEC on February 15, 2023 for information
relating to the C-Bridge entities. The business address of each of C-Bridge entities is Suite 3306-3307, Two Exchange Square, 8
Connaught Place, Central, Hong Kong.
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(2) Represents 8,172,022 ADSs held by T INVESTMENT LIMITED. Information regarding beneficial ownership is reported as of
November 23, 2023, derived from the information contained in the Schedule 13D filed by T INVESTMENT LIMITED on
December 1, 2023, assuming the shares reported thereunder refer to the ADSs. Please see the Schedule 13D filed by T
INVESTMENT LIMITED with SEC on December 1, 2023 for information relating to T INVESTMENT LIMITED. The principal
office of T Invest is Flat B, 4th Floor, Haven Commercial Building 6-8, Tsing Fung Street, Hong Kong.
(4) Represents (i) 6,909,220 ADSs (representing 15,891,206 ordinary shares) held by funds managed by HHLR Advisors, Ltd., or
HHLR, an exempted Cayman Islands company, and (ii) 5 ordinary shares held by a fund managed by Hillhouse Investment
Management, Ltd., or HIM, an exempted Cayman Islands company. HHLR acts as the sole investment manager of YHG
Investment, L.P., or YHG, and the sole management company of HHLR Fund, L.P., or HHLR Fund. HHLR is hereby deemed to be
the beneficial owner of, and to control the voting and investment power of, the voting ordinary shares held by YHG and HHLR
Fund. HIM acts as the sole management company of Hillhouse Fund IV, L.P., or Fund IV. Fund IV owns HH IMB Holdings
Limited, or HH IMB. HIM is hereby deemed to be the beneficial owner of, and to control the voting and investment power of, the
voting ordinary shares held by HH IMB. HH IMB, YHG and HHLR Fund are collectively referred to as the Hillhouse entities. The
directors of each of HHLR and HIM are Colm O’Connell and Bridget Kidner. Mr. O’Connell and Ms. Kidner are employees of each
of HHLR and HIM and Mr. Lei Zhang is the Founder and President of each of HHLR and HIM. Information regarding beneficial
ownership is reported as of June 28, 2023, based on the information contained in the Schedule 13D/A jointly filed by HHLR and
HIM on June 30, 2023. Please see the Schedule 13D/A jointly filed by HHLR and HIM with SEC on June 30, 2023 for information
relating to the Hillhouse entities, HHLR and HIM. The business address of each of HHLR and HIM is Office #122, Windward 3
Building, Regatta Office Park, West Bay Road, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, KY1-9006.
To our knowledge, as of April 15, 2024, 168,563,781 of our ordinary shares were held by three record holders in the United States
(including 8,043,040 ordinary shares issued to our depositary bank for bulk issuance of ADSs reserved for future issuances upon the
exercising or vesting of awards granted under our share incentive plans), representing approximately 90.6% of our total outstanding
shares. One of the U.S. holders is Citibank, N.A., the depositary of our ADS program. The number of beneficial owners of our ADSs in
the United States is likely to be much larger than the number of record holders of our ordinary shares in the United States. We are not
aware of any arrangement that may, at a subsequent date, result in a change of control of our company.
F. Disclosure of a Registrant’s Action to Recover Erroneously Awarded Compensation
Not applicable.
ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
A. Major Shareholders
Please refer to “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—E. Share Ownership.”
B. Related Party Transactions
Shareholders Agreement
In July 2019, we entered into our fourth amended and restated shareholders agreement with our then-shareholders.
The shareholders agreement provides for certain special rights, including right of first refusal, co-sale rights, preemptive rights and
contains provisions governing the board of directors and other corporate governance matters. Those special rights, as well as the
corporate governance provisions, automatically terminated upon the completion of our initial public offering.
Pursuant to our shareholders agreement, we have granted certain registration rights to our shareholders. Set forth below is a
description of the registration rights granted under the agreement.
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Demand Registration Rights. The holders of a majority of the registrable securities then issued and outstanding may request in
writing that we file a registration statement covering the registration of at least 20% of the registrable securities (or any lesser percentage
if the anticipated gross receipts from the offering are to exceed US$5.0 million). Upon such a request, we should, within ten business
days of the receipt of such written request, give written notice of such request to all holders, and use our best efforts to effect, as soon as
practicable, the registration of all registrable securities that the holders request to be registered and included in such registration by
written notice given by such holders to us within 20 days after receipt of the request notice. We have the right to defer filing of a
registration statement for a period of not more than 90 days after receipt of the request of the initiating holders if our board of directors
determines in good faith that filing of such registration statement at such time will be materially detrimental to us or our shareholders, but
we cannot exercise the deferral right more than once during any twelve-month period and cannot register any other securities during such
twelve-month period. We are not obligated to effect any such registration if we have, within the six-month period preceding the date of
such request, already effected a registration. We are not obligated to effect more than three demand registrations. This demand
registration right is subject to the customary exclusion right of the underwriters.
Registration on Form F-3. If we qualify for registration on Form F-3, any holder or holders of a majority of all registrable securities
then issued and outstanding may request in writing that we effect a registration on Form F-3 (or an equivalent registration in a
jurisdiction outside of the U.S.). We should promptly give written notice of the proposed registration and as soon as practicable, effect
such registration within 20 days after we provide the aforesaid written notice. The holders are entitled to an unlimited number of
registrations on Form F-3 so long as such registration offerings are in excess of US$500,000. We are not obligated to effect any such
registration if we have, within the six-month period preceding the date of such request, already effected a registration other than a
registration from which registrable securities of the holders have been excluded, or if we would be required to qualify to do business or
to execute a general consent to service of process in effecting such registration in any particular jurisdiction.
Piggyback Registration Rights. If we propose to register for a public offering of our securities (other than registration statements
relating to demand registration, Form F-3 registration, any employee benefit plan or a corporate reorganization), we should give written
notice of such registration to all holders of registrable securities at least 30 days prior to filing any registration statement and afford each
such holder an opportunity to be included in such registration. If a holder decides not to include all of its registrable securities in any
registration statement thereafter filed by us, such holder will nevertheless continue to have the right to include any registrable securities
in any subsequent registration statement or registration statements as may be filed by us, subject to certain limitations. This piggyback
registration right is subject to the customary exclusion right of the underwriters.
Expenses of Registration.
We will bear all registration expenses. Each holder, however, should bear its proportionate share of all of the underwriting discounts
and selling commissions applicable to the sale of registrable securities or other amounts payable to underwriter(s) or brokers in
connection with such offering by the holders.
Termination of Obligations.
Our obligations to effect any demand, Form F-3 or piggyback registration will terminate upon the earlier of (i) January 22, 2030,
which is the tenth anniversary of our initial public offering, or (ii) with respect to any shareholder, the date on which such shareholder is
eligible to sell all of the registrable securities held by it under Rule 144 within any 90-day period without volume limitations.
Deed of Undertaking
In December 2019, a deed of undertaking was made by our company and a few shareholders of our company, each as a warrantor, to
the other shareholders of our company (other than the shareholder warrantors), each as a warrantee, pursuant to which each warrantor
represents and warrants to each warrantee that it has provided each warrantee with all information and documents in connection with the
initial public offering of our company that has the effect of establishing rights or otherwise benefiting any shareholder in a manner more
favorable than the corresponding terms applicable to the warrantee in relation to the initial public offering of our company (collectively,
the “More Favorable Arrangements”). Pursuant to the deed of undertaking, until the fifth anniversary of the completion of our initial
public offering, we will not directly or indirectly enter into any agreements or arrangements or modify, amend or waive any existing
agreements or arrangements of any kind that would have the effect of establishing the More Favorable Arrangements; provided that it
will be allowed to adopt or modify any employee incentive plans and grant options to the management or any employee of our company
after our initial public offering pursuant to such plans and in accordance with the then effective memorandum and articles of association
and the applicable listing rules for the purpose of rewarding their bona fide services.
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Subscription Agreement with Hillhouse Entities
In September 2020, we entered into a Subscription Agreement with the Hillhouse Entities, as amended by an amendment to
Subscription Agreement entered into between Hillhouse Entities and our company in December 2020. The Subscription Agreement, as
amended, provides for (i) certain investors’ rights, such as registration rights, board representation rights and anti-dilution rights and
(ii) lock-up and other transfer restrictions. Set forth below is a description of certain rights and restrictions thereof.
Demand Registration Rights. Upon written request from the Hillhouse Entities at any time after we have effected two registration
statements abovementioned, with respect to the registrable securities then held by the Hillhouse Entities, and in no event later than the
forty-five (45) calendar days following the delivery of such request, we should file a prospectus supplement or a registration statement to
register the resale of such registrable securities on a Form F-3 or Form F-3ASR registration statement (or, if Form F-3 or Form F-3ASR
is not then available to us, on Form F-1 or such other form of registration statement as is then available to effect a registration for resale
of such registrable securities), have such registration statement declared effective, and maintain the effectiveness of such registration
statement for a period ending on the date the registrable securities registered thereon have ceased to be registrable securities. If the
registrable securities are offered by means of an underwritten offering, and we or the underwriters determine that marketing factors
require a limitation of the number of securities to be underwritten, the number of registrable securities that may be included in the
underwriting should be reduced and allocated (i) first, to us and each holder in accordance with the terms of the Shareholders Agreement;
(ii) second, to investors in the private placements entered into in September 2020 (including the Hillhouse Entities) requesting inclusion
of their registrable securities in such registration statement on a pro rata basis based on the total number of registrable securities then held
by each such investor; and (iii) third, to other holders of registrable securities, if any.
Suspension of Registration. We may suspend the use of any registration statement for a period not exceeding thirty (30) consecutive
trading days, if we (i) determine that we would be required to make disclosure of material information in the registration statement that
we have a bona fide business purpose for preserving as confidential; (ii) determine that we must amend or supplement the registration
statement so that it does not include an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact; or (iii) have experienced or are
experiencing some other material non-public event, the disclosure of which at such time would adversely affect us. However, we cannot
exercise the suspension right more than once in any twelve (12) month period and may not register any other securities during such
suspension period.
Expenses. We will bear all registration expenses, except any (i) portions of fees and disbursements of counsel for the Hillhouse
Entities exceeding US$30,000, (ii) underwriting discounts and selling commissions applicable to sale of registrable securities, and
(iii) fees payable pursuant to the deposit agreement.
Ranking of Registration Rights. Registration rights granted to the Hillhouse Entities should not be senior to, or on a parity with,
those granted to holders under the Shareholders Agreement.
Board Representation Rights. As long as the Hillhouse Entities continue to jointly beneficially own at least five percent (5.0%) of
our total issued and outstanding share capital, it is entitled to nominate and maintain one representative to our board of directors. We
should cause an individual jointly designated by the Hillhouse Entities to be appointed as the investor director with immediate effect no
later than the fifteenth business day after receiving written notice from Hillhouse Entities or such later date on which we receive
necessary shareholder approval.
Divestiture of Greater China Assets and Business Operations
On February 6, 2024, we entered into definitive agreements to divest the Greater China assets and business operations to I-Mab
Hangzhou. Pursuant to the definitive agreements, we transferred 100% of the outstanding equity interest in I-Mab Shanghai, which
operates our business in China, on a cash-free and debt-free basis, to I-Mab Hangzhou, including our rights to the Greater China
portfolio, to I-Mab Hangzhou for an aggregate consideration of the RMB equivalent of up to US$80 million, contingent on the
achievement of certain future regulatory and sales-based milestone events. After the completion of the divestiture, we do not own any
rights to the Greater China portfolio. The transaction also extinguishes existing repurchase obligations owed by a wholly owned
subsidiary of ours in the amount of approximately US$183 million. However, the non-participating shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou
have initiated legal proceedings against I-Mab Hong Kong and our company in connection with the aforementioned transaction. The total
amount of potential repurchase obligations owed to the non-participating shareholders upon the closing of the transaction is expected to
range from US$30 million to US$35 million.
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Employment Agreements and Indemnification Agreements
See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—A. Directors and Senior Management—Employment Agreements and
Indemnification Agreements.”
Share Option Grants
See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—B. Compensation—Share Incentive Plans.”
Other Transactions with Related Parties
In August 2021, we entered into a project development service agreement with I-Mab Hangzhou, for the product development
services we rendered for selected pipeline sub-licensed or assigned to I-Mab Hangzhou, including TJ301, TJM2 (excluding COVID-19
indication) and a few pre-clinical programs that are unessential to our immune-oncology focus. In 2021, 2022 and 2023, I-Mab
Hangzhou paid us RMB52.4 million, nil and nil for the product development services we offered. In July 2021, we entered into a
biologics master services agreement with I-Mab Hangzhou. Under the framework of this biologics master services agreement, we entered
into series of work orders with respect to process development and manufacturing service for our drug assets in 2021, 2022 and 2023,
respectively. Pursuant to the work orders signed with I-Mab Hangzhou in 2022 and 2023, I-Mab Hangzhou provided us with
development of chemistry, manufacturing and controls and manufacturing services for a total of RMB226.7 million (US$31.9 million).
We paid I-Mab Hangzhou RMB10.7 million, RMB46.2 million and RMB120.5 million (US$17.0 million) for the years ended December
31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
In December 2021, we entered into a supplementary sublicensing agreement with I-Mab Hangzhou, pursuant to which I-Mab
Hangzhou, as a sub-licensee of olamkicept (TJ301) in Greater China and Korea, agreed to pay US$3.0 million to us for the completion of
olamkicept (TJ301) Phase 2a study report. After receiving the milestone payment of RMB19.1 million (equivalent to US$3.0 million)
from I-Mab Hangzhou, we settled the payment of US$3.0 million with Ferring, as of December 31, 2023.
On July 16, 2022, I-Mab Hangzhou entered into a definitive financing agreement with a group of domestic investors in China to
raise the RMB equivalent of approximately US$46 million. On the same date, we, through our wholly owned subsidiary, entered into a
shareholders agreement with I-Mab Hangzhou and other domestic investors in I-Mab Hangzhou named therein. Upon the occurrence of
certain triggering events as specified in this agreement, including but not limited to I-Mab Hangzhou’s failure to accomplish certain
public offering conditions, we may be obligated to repurchase the equity held by other domestic investors in cash or in our stocks in the
period beyond 12 months.
C.
Interests of Experts and Counsel
Not applicable.
ITEM 8.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information
We have appended consolidated financial statements filed as part of this annual report.
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Legal Proceedings
From time to time we may become involved in legal proceedings or be subject to claims arising in the ordinary course of our
business. We are not presently a party to any legal proceedings that, if determined adversely to us, would individually or taken together
have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition or cash flows. In April 2020, Tracon issued a
notice of disputes with respect to the agreements we entered into with it to co-develop TJD5 and bispecific antibodies, respectively. In
February 2021, we sent Tracon a notice to terminate the agreement we entered into with Tracon to co-develop TJD5, which would result
in a prespecified termination fee of US$9.0 million owing to Tracon. Accordingly, we have already accrued and recorded this termination
fee of US$9.0 million as administrative expenses in our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2021. The
disputes were presented to a binding arbitration proceeding under the Rules of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce
before an arbitration tribunal. On April 25, 2023, we announced positive outcomes in the arbitration. The arbitration award determined
that the agreement in relation to TJD5 has been terminated for a pre-agreed termination fee of $9.0 million plus interest payable pursuant
to the original agreement, and, therefore Tracon has no rights to share any future economics with I-Mab. The arbitration award
completely denied Tracon’s damages claim of over US$200 million for any breach and awarded no damages to Tracon. The tribunal also
confirmed the termination of the agreement in relation to bispecific antibodies. Based on the arbitration award, I-Mab bears a portion of
Tracon’s legal fees and costs, totaling approximately US$13.5 million, which was recorded as administrative expenses in our
consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2022. In July 2023, we paid the pre-agreed termination fee in relation
to TJD5 and the agreed-upon portion of Tracon’s legal fees and costs to Tracon. Due to Tracon’s wrong-doing during the confidential
arbitration process, we are pursuing a trade secret misappropriation lawsuit case against one of our competitors and seeking remedies,
including potentially substantial monetary damages.
Furthermore, on January 31, 2024, Ningbo Yanyuan Yaoshang Industry Finance Equity Investment Partnership (Limited
Partnership), or Yanyuan Yaoshang, Ningbo Yanchuang Yaoshang Yangming Entrepreneurship Investment Partnership (Limited
Partnership), or Yanyuan Yangming, Jiangsu Yanyuan Eastern Entrepreneurship Equity Investment Partnership (Limited Partnership), or
Yanyuan Eastern, Ningbo Rongshun Yanyuan Entrepreneurship Equity Investment Partnership (Limited Partnership), or Rongshun
Yanyuan, and Ningbo Yanyuan Innovation Entrepreneurship Equity Investment Partnership (Limited Partnership), or Yanyuan
Innovation, (collectively “Claimants”), as shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou, commenced arbitration against I-Mab Hong Kong before
China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission Zhejiang Sub-Commission. The Claimants seek the following relief:
(1) an order that I-Mab Hong Kong pays Yanyuan Yaoshang the equity transfer payment and premium in total amount of US$2.67
million as of January 29, 2024; (2) an order that I-Mab Hong Kong pays Yanyuan Yangming the equity transfer payment and premium in
total amount of US$4.27 million as of January 29, 2024; (3) an order that I-Mab Hong Kong pays Yanyuan Eastern the equity transfer
payment and premium in total amount of US$3.74 million as of January 29, 2024; (4) an order that I-Mab Hong Kong pays Rongshun
Yanyuan the equity transfer payment and premium in total amount of US$3.34 million as of January 29, 2024; (5) an order that I-Mab
Hong Kong pays Yanyuan Innovation the equity transfer payment and premium in total amount of US$3.34 million as of January 29,
2024; (6) an order that I-Mab Hong Kong pays all arbitration fees and property preservation fees incurred by the Claimants. The
arbitration proceeding before the Zhejiang arbitration sub-commission is still pending. We have not yet received the notice of hearing and
are currently unable to predict the outcome of the arbitration.
Regardless of the outcome, litigation or arbitration can have an adverse impact on us because of defense and settlement costs,
diversion of management resources and other factors. Enforcing a claim that a party illegally disclosed or misappropriated a trade secret
can be difficult, expensive and time-consuming, and the outcome is unpredictable.
Dividend Policy
Our board of directors has complete discretion on whether to pay dividends, subject to certain requirements of Cayman Islands law.
Even if our board of directors decides to pay dividends on our ordinary shares, the form, frequency and amount will depend upon our
future operations and earnings, capital requirements and surplus, general financial condition, contractual restrictions and other factors
that our board of directors may deem relevant.
We do not have any present plan to pay any cash dividends on our ordinary shares in the foreseeable future. We currently intend to
retain most, if not all, of our available funds and any future earnings to operate and develop our business.
We are a holding company incorporated in the Cayman Islands. We may rely on dividends from our subsidiaries in the U.S. and
China for our cash requirements, including any payment of dividends to our shareholders. PRC regulations may restrict the ability of our
PRC subsidiary to pay dividends to us. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Regulation—PRC
Regulation—Regulations Relating to Foreign Exchange and the Dividend Distribution.”
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If we pay any dividends on our ordinary shares, we will pay those dividends which are payable in respect of the ordinary shares
underlying our ADSs to the depositary, as the registered holder of such ordinary shares, and the depositary then will pay such amounts to
our ADS holders in proportion to the ordinary shares underlying the ADSs held by such ADS holders, subject to the terms of the deposit
agreement, including the fees and expenses payable thereunder. Cash dividends on our ordinary shares, if any, will be paid in U.S.
dollars.
B. Significant Changes
We have not experienced any significant changes since the date of our audited consolidated financial statements included in this
annual report.
ITEM 9.
THE OFFER AND LISTING
A. Offering and Listing Details
Our ADSs, each ten (10) ADSs representing twenty-three (23) ordinary shares of ours, have been listed on the Nasdaq Global
Market since January 17, 2020. Our ADSs trade under the symbol “IMAB.”
B. Plan of Distribution
Not applicable.
C. Markets
Our ADSs, each ten (10) ADSs representing twenty-three (23) ordinary shares of ours, have been listed on the Nasdaq Global
Market since January 17, 2020. Our ADSs trade under the symbol “IMAB.”
D. Selling Shareholders
Not applicable.
E. Dilution
Not applicable.
F. Expenses of the Issue
Not applicable.
ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
A. Share Capital
Not applicable.
B. Memorandum and Articles of Association
The following is a summary of the material provisions of the sixth amended and restated memorandum and articles of association of
our company and of the Companies Act, insofar as they relate to the material terms of our ordinary shares.
Objects of Our Company. Under our current memorandum and articles of association, the objects of our company are unrestricted
and we have the full power and authority to carry out any object not prohibited by the Companies Act or any other law of the Cayman
Islands.
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Ordinary Shares. Certificates representing the ordinary shares are issued in registered form and our ordinary shares are issued when
registered in our register of members. We may not issue shares to bearers. Our shareholders who are non-residents of the Cayman Islands
may freely hold and vote their shares.
Dividends. Our directors may from time to time declare dividends (including interim dividends) and other distributions on our shares
in issue and authorize payment of the same out of the funds of our company lawfully available therefor. In addition, our company may
declare dividends by ordinary resolution, but no dividend should exceed the amount recommended by our directors. Our current
memorandum and articles of association provide that dividends may be declared and paid out of the funds of our company lawfully
available therefor. Under the laws of the Cayman Islands, our company may pay a dividend out of either profit or our share premium
account; provided that in no circumstances may a dividend be paid if this would result in our company being unable to pay its debts as
they fall due in the ordinary course of business.
Voting Rights. Voting at any meeting of shareholders is by show of hands unless a poll is demanded. A poll may be demanded by the
chairman of such meeting or any one shareholder or shareholders collectively holding not less than 5% of the votes attaching to the
shares present in person or by proxy.
An ordinary resolution to be passed at a meeting by the shareholders requires the affirmative vote of a simple majority of the votes
attaching to the ordinary shares cast at a meeting, while a special resolution requires the affirmative vote of not less than two-thirds of the
votes attaching to the ordinary shares cast at a meeting. A special resolution will be required for important matters such as a change of
name or making changes to our current memorandum and articles of association.
Alteration of Share Capital
We may from time to time by ordinary resolution:
● increase our share capital by such sum, to be divided into shares of such classes and amount, as the resolution prescribes;
● consolidate and divide all or any of our share capital into shares of a larger amount than its existing shares;
● subdivide our shares, or any of them, into shares of an amount smaller than that fixed by the memorandum of association,
provided that in the subdivision the proportion between the amount paid and the amount, if any, unpaid on each reduced share
should be the same as it was in case of the share from which the reduced share is derived; and
● cancel any shares that, at the date of the passing of the resolution, have not been taken or agreed to be taken by any person and
diminish the amount of its share capital by the amount of the shares so cancelled.
We may by special resolution, subject to any confirmation or consent required by the Companies Act, reduce our share capital and
any capital redemption reserve in any manner authorized by law.
General Meetings of Shareholders. As a Cayman Islands exempted company, we are not obliged by the Companies Act to call
shareholders’ annual general meetings. Our current memorandum and articles of association provide that we may (but are not obliged to)
in each calendar year hold a general meeting as our annual general meeting in which case we should specify the meeting as such in the
notices calling it, and the annual general meeting will be held at such time and place as may be determined by our directors.
Shareholders’ general meetings may be convened by our directors (acting by a resolution of our board). Advance notice of at least
14 calendar days is required for any general shareholders’ meeting. A quorum required for any general meeting of shareholders consists
of, at the time when the meeting proceeds to business, one or more of our shareholders holding shares which carry in aggregate (or
representing by proxy) not less than one-third of all votes attaching to all of our shares in issue and entitled to vote at such general
meeting.
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The Companies Act provides shareholders with only limited rights to requisition a general meeting, and does not provide
shareholders with any right to put any proposal before a general meeting. However, these rights may be provided in a company’s articles
of association. Our current articles of association allow our shareholders holding in aggregate not less than one-tenth of all votes
attaching to all issued and outstanding shares of our company that as at the date of the deposit carry the right to vote at general meetings
of the company to requisition an extraordinary general meeting of our shareholders, in which case our board is obliged to convene an
extraordinary general meeting and to put the resolutions so requisitioned to a vote at such meeting. However, our current memorandum
and articles of association do not provide our shareholders with any right to put any proposals before annual general meetings or
extraordinary general meetings not called by such shareholders.
Transfer of Ordinary Shares. Subject to the restrictions in our current memorandum and articles of association as set out below, any
of our shareholders may transfer all or any of his or her ordinary shares by an instrument of transfer in the usual or common form or any
other form approved by our board of directors.
Our board of directors may, in its absolute discretion, decline to register any transfer of any ordinary share which is not fully paid up
or on which we have a lien. Our board of directors may also decline to register any transfer of any ordinary share unless:
● the instrument of transfer is lodged with us, accompanied by the certificate for the ordinary shares to which it relates and such
other evidence as our board of directors may reasonably require to show the right of the transferor to make the transfer;
● the instrument of transfer is in respect of only one class of shares;
● the instrument of transfer is properly stamped, if required;
● in the case of a transfer to joint holders, the number of joint holders to whom the ordinary share is to be transferred does not
exceed four; and
● a fee of such maximum sum as the Nasdaq Global Market may determine to be payable or such lesser sum as our directors may
from time to time require is paid to us in respect thereof.
If our directors refuse to register a transfer, they should, within three calendar months after the date on which the instrument of
transfer was lodged with our company, send to each of the transferor and the transferee notice of such refusal.
The registration of transfers may, on ten calendar days’ notice being given by advertisement in such one or more newspapers, by
electronic means or by any other means in accordance with the rules of the Nasdaq Global Market be suspended and the register closed at
such times and for such periods as our board of directors may from time to time determine; provided, however, that the registration of
transfers should not be suspended nor the register closed for more than 30 calendar days in any calendar year.
Liquidation. On the winding up of our company, if the assets available for distribution amongst our shareholders are more than
sufficient to repay the whole of the share capital at the commencement of the winding up, the surplus should be distributed amongst our
shareholders in proportion to the par value of the shares held by them at the commencement of the winding up, subject to a deduction
from those shares in respect of which there are monies due, of all monies payable to our company for unpaid calls or otherwise. If our
assets available for distribution are insufficient to repay the whole of the share capital, such assets will be distributed so that, as nearly as
may be, the losses are borne by our shareholders in proportion to the par value of the shares held by them.
Calls on Shares and Forfeiture of Shares. Subject to the terms of the allotment, our board of directors may from time to time make
calls upon shareholders in respect of any moneys unpaid on their shares in a notice served to such shareholders at least 14 calendar days
prior to the specified time or times of payment. The shares that have been called upon and remain unpaid are subject to forfeiture.
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Redemption, Repurchase and Surrender of Shares. We may issue shares on terms that such shares are subject to redemption, at our
option or at the option of the holders of these shares, on such terms and in such manner as may be determined, before the issue of such
shares, by our board of directors or by our shareholders by a special resolution. Our company may also repurchase any of our shares on
such terms and in such manner as have been approved by our board of directors or by an ordinary resolution of our shareholders or are
otherwise authorized by the articles of association. Under Cayman Islands law, any redemption or repurchase of shares by our company
may be made out of profits or out of the proceeds of a fresh issue of shares made for the purpose of such redemption or repurchase, or
out of capital (including share premium account and capital redemption reserve) if our company can, immediately following such
payment, pay its debts as they fall due in the ordinary course of business. No such share may be redeemed or repurchased (a) unless it is
fully paid up, (b) if such redemption or repurchase would result in there being no shares outstanding, or (c) if our company has
commenced liquidation. In addition, our company may accept the surrender of any fully paid share for no consideration.
Variations of Rights of Shares. Whenever the capital of our company is divided into different classes the rights attached to any such
class may, subject to any rights or restrictions for the time being attached to any class, only be varied with the consent in writing of the
holders of all of the issued shares of that class or with the sanction of a special resolution passed at a separate meeting of the holders of
the shares of that class. The rights conferred upon the holders of the shares of any class issued with preferred or other rights should not,
subject to any rights or restrictions for the time being attached to the shares of that class, be deemed to be varied by, inter alia, the
creation, allotment or issue of further shares ranking pari passu with or subsequent to them or the redemption or purchase of any shares
of any class by our company. The rights of the holders of shares should not be deemed to be varied by the creation or issue of shares with
preferred or other rights, including, without limitation, the creation of shares with enhanced or weighted voting rights.
Issuance of Additional Shares. Our current memorandum and articles of association authorize our board of directors to issue
additional ordinary shares from time to time as our board of directors determines.
Our current memorandum and articles of association also authorize our board of directors to issue from time to time one or more
series of preferred shares and to determine, with respect to any series of preferred shares, the terms and rights of that series, including but
not limited to:
● the designation of the series;
● the number of preferred shares to constitute such series;
● the dividend rights, dividend rates, conversion rights, voting rights; and
● the rights and terms of redemption and liquidation preferences.
Issuance of these shares may dilute the voting power of holders of ordinary shares.
Inspection of Books and Records. A list of the names of the current directors and alternate directors (if applicable) are made
available by the Registrar of Companies of the Cayman Islands for inspection by any person on payment of a fee. Shareholders have no
general right under Cayman Islands law to inspect or obtain copies of our list of shareholders or our corporate records (save for our
memorandum and articles of association and our register of mortgages and charges). However, we intend to provide our shareholders
with annual audited financial statements.
Anti-Takeover Provisions. Some provisions of our current memorandum and articles of association may discourage, delay or prevent
a change of control of our company or management that shareholders may consider favorable, including provisions that authorize our
board of directors to issue preferred shares in one or more series and to designate the price, rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions
of such preferred shares.
However, under Cayman Islands law, our directors may only exercise the rights and powers granted to them under our current
memorandum and articles of association for a proper purpose and for what they believe in good faith to be in the best interests of our
company.
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Exempted Company. We are an exempted company with limited liability incorporated under the Companies Act. The Companies Act
distinguishes between ordinary resident companies and exempted companies. Any company that is registered in the Cayman Islands but
conducts business mainly outside of the Cayman Islands may apply to be registered as an exempted company. The requirements for an
exempted company are essentially the same as for an ordinary company except that an exempted company:
● does not have to file an annual return of its shareholders with the Registrar of Companies;
● is not required to open its register of members for inspection;
● does not have to hold an annual general meeting;
● may issue shares with no par value;
● may obtain an undertaking against the imposition of any future taxation (such undertakings are usually given for 20 years in the
first instance);
● may register by way of continuation in another jurisdiction and be deregistered in the Cayman Islands;
● may register as a limited duration company; and
● may register as a segregated portfolio company.
“Limited liability” means that the liability of each shareholder is limited to the amount unpaid by the shareholder on the shares of the
company held by such shareholder (except in exceptional circumstances, such as involving fraud, the establishment of an agency
relationship or an illegal or improper purpose or other circumstances in which a court may be prepared to pierce or lift the corporate
veil).
C. Material Contracts
We have not entered into any material contracts other than in the ordinary course of business and other than those described under
this item, in “Item 4. Information on the Company,” “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—B. Related Party
Transactions,” “Item 10. Additional Information—C. Material Contracts” or elsewhere in this annual report on Form 20-F.
Subscription Agreements with Certain Investors Other Than Hillhouse Entities
In September 2020, we entered into subscription agreements with various investors other than Hillhouse Entities. The subscription
agreements are of the same form and provide for certain investors’ rights, such as registration rights and anti-dilution right. Set forth
below is a description of certain rights and restrictions thereof.
Mandatory Registration. We agree to file with the SEC a registration statement to register the resale of such investors’ registrable
securities, which include ordinary shares issued and issuable upon exercise of warrants issued under the Subscription Agreement, on
Form F-3 or Form F-1, as applicable. We should have the registration statement declared effective by the SEC no later than ninety (90)
calendar days after the initial closing date, which period could be extended to one hundred and twenty (120) calendar days if the SEC
reviews and comments on the registration statement. However, if the SEC prevents inclusion of the registrable securities in the
registration statement pursuant to limitations under Rule 415 of the Securities Act, the number of registrable securities to be registered
for each selling shareholder named in the registration statement should be reduced pro rata among all such selling shareholders. We
should maintain the continuous effectiveness of the registration statement for a period of ninety (90) days after its effectiveness or such
shorter period upon which such investors have notified us that their registrable securities have actually been sold.
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Piggyback Registration. We agree to notify such investors at least thirty (30) days prior to filing any registration statement for
purposes of effecting a public offering of ADSs (excluding registration statements relating to the mandatory registration described
above). The Private Placement Investors has 20 days after receiving notice from us to notify us in writing of their desire to include their
registrable securities in the registration statement. However, if the registrable securities in such registration statement are offered by
means of an underwritten offering, and we or the underwriters determine that marketing factors require a limitation of the number of
securities to be underwritten, the number of registrable securities that may be included in the underwriting should be reduced and
allocated (i) first, to us and each holder in accordance with the terms of the Shareholders Agreement; (ii) second, to investors in the
private placements entered into in September 2020 requesting inclusion of their registrable securities in such registration statement on a
pro rata basis based on the total number of registrable securities then held by each such investor; and (iii) third, to other holders of
registrable securities, if any.
Suspension of Registration. We may suspend the use of any registration statement for a period not exceeding thirty (30) consecutive
trading days, if we (i) determine that we would be required to make disclosure of material information in the registration statement that
we have a bona fide business purpose for preserving as confidential; (ii) determine that we must amend or supplement the registration
statement so that it does not include an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact; or (iii) have experienced or are
experiencing some other material non-public event, the disclosure of which at such time would adversely affect us. However, we cannot
exercise the suspension right more than once in any twelve (12) month period and may not register any other securities during such
suspension period.
Expenses. We will bear all registration expenses, except any (i) portions of fees and disbursements of counsel for such investors, and
(ii) underwriting discounts and selling commissions applicable to sale of registrable securities.
Ranking of Registration Rights. Registration rights granted to such investors should not be senior to, or on a parity with, those
granted to holders under the Shareholders Agreement.
D. Exchange Controls
See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Regulation—PRC Regulation—Regulations Relating to
Foreign Exchange and the Dividend Distribution.”
E. Taxation
The following summary of the material Cayman Islands, PRC and U.S. federal income tax consequences of an investment in the
ADSs or ordinary shares is based upon laws and interpretations thereof in effect as of the date of this annual report, all of which are
subject to change. This summary does not deal with all possible tax consequences relating to an investment in the ADSs or ordinary
shares, such as the tax consequences under U.S. state and local tax laws or under the tax laws of jurisdictions other than the Cayman
Islands, China and the United States.
Cayman Islands Taxation
According to Harney Westwood & Riegels, our Cayman Islands counsel, the Cayman Islands currently levies no taxes on
individuals or corporations based upon profits, income, gains or appreciation and there is no taxation in the nature of inheritance tax or
estate duty. There are no other taxes likely to be material to holders of our ADSs or ordinary shares levied by the government of the
Cayman Islands, except for stamp duties, which may be applicable on instruments executed in, or brought to, or produced before a court
of the Cayman Islands. The Cayman Islands has a double tax treaty with the United Kingdom entered into force in 2010 but otherwise is
not party to any double tax treaties. There are no exchange control regulations or currency restrictions in the Cayman Islands.
Payments of dividends and capital in respect of our shares will not be subject to taxation in the Cayman Islands and no withholding
will be required on the payment of a dividend or capital to any holder of the shares, nor will gains derived from the disposal of our shares
be subject to Cayman Islands income or corporation tax.
No stamp duty is payable in respect of the issue of shares by our company and no stamp duty is payable on transfers of shares of our
company provided our company does not hold any interest in land in the Cayman Islands and save that stamp duties may be applicable
on instruments executed in, or brought to, or produced before a court of the Cayman Islands.
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PRC Taxation
Under the PRC Enterprise Income Tax Law and its implementation rules, an enterprise established outside China with “de facto
management body” within China is considered as a Tax Resident Enterprise for PRC enterprise income tax purposes and is generally
subject to a uniform 25% enterprise income tax rate on its worldwide income. The implementation rules define the term “de facto
management body” as the body that exercises full and substantial control and overall management over the business, productions,
personnel, accounts and properties of an enterprise. In April 2009, the State Administration of Taxation issued the Circular of the State
Administration of Taxation on Issues Relating to Identification of PRC-Controlled Overseas Registered Enterprises as Resident
Enterprises in Accordance With the De Facto Standards of Organizational Management, or SAT Circular 82, which provides certain
specific criteria for determining whether the “de facto management body” of a PRC-controlled enterprise that is incorporated offshore is
located in China. Although this circular only applies to offshore enterprises controlled by PRC enterprises or PRC enterprise groups, not
those controlled by PRC individuals or foreigners, the criteria set forth in the circular may reflect the State Administration of Taxation’s
general position on how the “de facto management body” text should be applied in determining the tax resident status of all offshore
enterprises. According to SAT Circular 82, an offshore incorporated enterprise controlled by a PRC enterprise or a PRC enterprise group
is regarded as a PRC tax resident by virtue of having its “de facto management body” in China if all of the following conditions are met:
(i) the primary location of the day-to-day operational management is in China; (ii) decisions relating to the enterprise’s financial and
human resource matters are made or are subject to approval by organizations or personnel located in China; (iii) the enterprise’s primary
assets, accounting books and records, company seals, and board and shareholder resolutions, are located or maintained in China; and (iv)
at least 50% of voting board members or senior executives habitually reside in China.
Our PRC counsel, JunHe LLP, is of the opinion that, based on its understanding of the current PRC Laws and Regulations, as I-Mab
does not meet all of the above conditions and given that neither I-Mab nor any of its PRC Subsidiaries has received any notice from the
PRC tax authorities confirming, directly or indirectly, that I-Mab is a PRC resident enterprise for PRC tax income purposes as of the date
of this annual report, I-Mab should not be considered as a PRC resident enterprise for PRC income tax purposes.
I-Mab is incorporated outside of China and it is not controlled by a PRC enterprise or PRC enterprise group. We have structured a
clear management guideline in place to segregate the policy set up and business operating execution responsibilities in order to
differentiate the effective control from our headquarter office and subsidiaries including record keeping and offshore work location plan.
I-Mab is a company incorporated outside the PRC. As a holding company, its key assets are its ownership interests in its
subsidiaries, and its key assets are located, and its records (including the resolutions of its board of directors and the resolutions of its
shareholders) are maintained, outside China. However, the tax resident status of an enterprise is subject to determination by the PRC tax
authorities and uncertainties remain with respect to the interpretation of the term “de facto management body.” We cannot guarantee you
that PRC tax authorities will not take a different view.
If the PRC tax authorities determine that I-Mab is a PRC resident enterprise for enterprise income tax purposes, our worldwide
income could be subject to 25% enterprise income tax; and any dividends payable to non-resident enterprise holders of our common
shares or ADSs may be treated as income derived from sources within China and therefore, subject to a 10% withholding tax (or 20% in
the case of non-resident individual holders) unless an applicable income tax treaty provides otherwise. In addition, capital gains realized
by non-resident enterprise shareholders (including our ADS holders) upon the disposition of our common shares or ADSs may be treated
as income derived from sources within PRC and therefore, subject to 10% income tax (or 20% in the case of non-resident individual
shareholders or ADS holders) unless an applicable income tax treaty provides otherwise. It is unclear whether non-PRC shareholders of
our company would be able to claim the benefits of any tax treaties between their country of tax residence and the PRC in the event that
we are treated as a PRC resident enterprise.
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United States Federal Income Tax Considerations
The following discussion is a summary of U.S. federal income tax considerations relating to the ownership and disposition of our
ADSs or ordinary shares by a U.S. Holder (as defined below) that acquires our ADSs or ordinary shares and holds our ADSs or ordinary
shares as “capital assets” (generally, property held for investment) under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as amended. This
discussion is based upon existing U.S. federal income tax law, which is subject to differing interpretations or change, possibly with
retroactive effect. There can be no assurance that the Internal Revenue Service or a court will not take a contrary position. This
discussion does not address the U.S. federal estate, gift, Medicare, and minimum tax considerations, or any state, local, and non-U.S. tax
considerations, relating to the ownership or disposition of our ADSs or ordinary shares. This discussion, moreover, does not discuss all
aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be important to particular investors in light of their individual investment circumstances
or to investors subject to special tax situations such as:
● banks and other financial institutions;
● insurance companies;
● pension plans;
● cooperatives;
● regulated investment companies;
● real estate investment trusts;
● broker-dealers;
● traders in securities that elect to use a mark-to-market method of accounting;
● certain former U.S. citizens or long-term residents;
● tax-exempt entities (including private foundations);
● investors who are not U.S. Holders;
● investors who own (directly, indirectly or constructively) 10% or more of our stock (by vote or value);
● investors who acquire their ADSs or ordinary shares pursuant to any employee share option or otherwise as compensation;
● investors that will hold their ADSs or ordinary shares as part of a straddle, hedge, conversion, constructive sale or other
integrated transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes; or
● investors that have a functional currency other than the U.S. dollar;
all of whom may be subject to tax rules that differ significantly from those discussed below. Each U.S. Holder is urged to consult its tax
advisor regarding the U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. income and other tax considerations of an investment in our ADSs or
ordinary shares.
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General
For purposes of this discussion, a “U.S. Holder” is a beneficial owner of our ADSs or ordinary shares that is, for U.S. federal income
tax purposes, (i) an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States, (ii) a corporation (or other entity treated as a corporation
for U.S. federal income tax purposes) created in, or organized under the law of, the United States or any state thereof or the District of
Columbia, (iii) an estate the income of which is includible in gross income for U.S. federal income tax purposes regardless of its source,
or (iv) a trust (A) the administration of which is subject to the primary supervision of a U.S. court and which has one or more U.S.
persons who have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (B) that has otherwise validly elected to be treated as a
U.S. person under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as amended.
If a partnership (or other entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) is a beneficial owner of our ADSs or
ordinary shares, the tax treatment of a partner in the partnership will generally depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of
the partner and the partnership. Partnerships holding our ADSs or ordinary shares and their partners are urged to consult their tax
advisors regarding an investment in our ADSs or ordinary shares.
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, it is generally expected that a U.S. Holder of ADSs will be treated as the beneficial owner of
the underlying shares represented by the ADSs. The remainder of this discussion assumes that a U.S. Holder of our ADSs will be treated
as the beneficial owner of the underlying shares represented by the ADSs. Accordingly, deposits or withdrawals of ordinary shares for
ADSs will generally not be subject to U.S. federal income tax.
Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations
A non-U.S. corporation, such as our company, will be classified as a passive foreign investment company, or, or PFIC, for U.S.
federal income tax purposes for any taxable year if either (i) 75% or more of its gross income for such year consists of certain types of
“passive” income or (ii) 50% or more of the value of its assets (generally determined on the basis of a quarterly average) during
such year is attributable to assets that produce or are held for the production of passive income. For this purpose, cash and assets readily
convertible into cash are each categorized as a passive asset and the company’s goodwill and other unbooked intangibles are taken into
account. Passive income generally includes, among other things, dividends, interest, rents, royalties, and gains from the disposition of
passive assets. We will be treated as owning a proportionate share of the assets and earning a proportionate share of the income of any
other corporation in which we own, directly or indirectly, 25% or more (by value) of the stock.
Based upon the nature and composition of our assets (in particular, the retention of substantial amounts of cash and investments),
and the market price of our ADSs, we believe that we were a PFIC for the taxable year ended December 31, 2023 and we will likely be a
PFIC for our current taxable year unless the market price of our ADSs significantly increases and/or we invest a substantial amount of
the cash and other passive assets we hold in assets that produce or are held for the production of active income.
If we are a PFIC for any year during which a U.S. Holder holds our ADSs or ordinary shares, we generally will continue to be
treated as a PFIC for all succeeding years during which such U.S. Holder holds our ADSs or ordinary shares. However, if we cease to be
a PFIC, provided that you have not made a mark-to-market election, as described below, you may avoid some of the adverse effects of
the PFIC regime by making a “deemed sale” election with respect to the ADSs or ordinary shares, as applicable. If such election is made,
you will be deemed to have sold our ADSs or ordinary shares you hold at their fair market value and any gain from such deemed sale
would be subject to the rules described below under “Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules.” After the deemed sale election, so
long as we do not become a PFIC in a subsequent taxable year, your ADSs or ordinary shares with respect to which such election was
made will not be treated as shares in a PFIC and you will not be subject to the rules described below with respect to any “excess
distribution” you receive from us or any gain from an actual sale or other disposition of the ADSs or ordinary shares. The rules dealing
with deemed sale elections are very complex. Each U.S. Holder should consult its tax advisors regarding the possibility and
considerations of making a deemed sale election.
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Dividends
Subject to the discussion below under “—Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules,” any cash distributions (including the
amount of any tax withheld) paid on our ADSs or ordinary shares out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined
under U.S. federal income tax principles, will generally be includible in the gross income of a U.S. Holder as dividend income on the day
actually or constructively received by the U.S. Holder. Because we do not intend to determine our earnings and profits on the basis of
U.S. federal income tax principles, any distribution we pay will generally be reported as a “dividend” for U.S. federal income tax
purposes. Dividends received on our ADSs or ordinary shares will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction allowed to
corporations in respect of dividends received from U.S. corporations.
A non-corporate U.S. Holder will generally be subject to tax on dividend income from a “qualified foreign corporation” at a lower
applicable capital gains rate rather than the marginal tax rates generally applicable to ordinary income provided that certain conditions
are satisfied, including that (1) our ADSs or ordinary shares on which the dividends are paid are readily tradable on an established
securities market in the United States, or in the event that we are deemed to be a PRC resident enterprise under the PRC tax law, we are
eligible for the benefits of the United States-PRC income tax treaty; (2) we are neither a PFIC nor treated as such with respect to a U.S.
Holder for the taxable year in which the dividend is paid and the preceding taxable year, and (3) certain holding period requirements are
met. Our ADSs (but not our ordinary shares) are listed on the Nasdaq Global Market and is considered readily tradable on an established
securities market in the United States. Since we do not expect that our ordinary shares will be listed on an established securities market,
we do not believe that dividends that we pay on our ordinary shares that are not represented by ADSs will meet the conditions required
for the reduced tax rate. There can be no assurance, however, that our ADSs will continue to be considered readily tradable on an
established securities market in later years.
In the event that we are deemed to be a PRC resident enterprise under the PRC Enterprise Income Tax Law, we may be eligible for
the benefits of the United States-PRC income tax treaty and in that case we would be treated as a qualified foreign corporation with
respect to dividends paid on our ordinary shares or ADSs. Each non-corporate U.S. Holder is advised to consult its tax advisors regarding
the availability of the reduced tax rate applicable to qualified dividend income for any dividends we pay with respect to our ADSs or
ordinary shares.
Dividends will generally be treated as income from foreign sources for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes and will generally constitute
passive category income. In the event that we are deemed to be a PRC resident enterprise under the PRC Enterprise Income Tax Law, a
U.S. Holder may be subject to PRC withholding taxes on dividends paid on our ADSs or ordinary shares. See “—PRC Taxation” above.
In that case, depending on the U.S. Holder’s individual facts and circumstances, a U.S. Holder may be eligible, subject to a number of
complex limitations, to claim a foreign tax credit not in excess of any applicable treaty rate in respect of any foreign withholding taxes
imposed on dividends received on our ADSs or ordinary shares. A U.S. Holder who does not elect to claim a foreign tax credit for
foreign tax withheld may instead claim a deduction, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, in respect of such withholding, but only for
a year in which such holder elects to do so for all creditable foreign income taxes. The rules governing the foreign tax credit are complex
and their outcome depends in large part on the U.S. Holder’s individual facts and circumstances. Accordingly, U.S. Holders are urged to
consult their tax advisors regarding the availability of the foreign tax credit under their particular circumstances.
As discussed above, we believe that we were a PFIC for the taxable year ended December 31, 2023, and we will likely be classified
as a PFIC for our current taxable year. U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the availability of the reduced rate
of taxation on dividends with respect to our ADSs or ordinary shares under their particular circumstances.
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Sale or Other Disposition of ADSs or Ordinary Shares
Subject to the discussion below under “—Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules,” a U.S. Holder will generally recognize
capital gain or loss upon the sale or other disposition of ADSs or ordinary shares in an amount equal to the difference between the
amount realized upon the disposition and the holder’s adjusted tax basis in such ADSs or ordinary shares. Any capital gain or loss will be
long-term if the ADSs or ordinary shares have been held for more than one year and will generally be U.S. source gain or loss for U.S.
foreign tax credit purposes. Long-term capital gain of non-corporate U.S. Holders is generally eligible for a reduced rate of taxation. The
deductibility of a capital loss may be subject to limitations. In the event that we are treated as a PRC resident enterprise under the
Enterprise Income Tax Law and gain from the disposition of the ADSs or ordinary shares is subject to tax in China, a U.S. Holder that is
eligible for the benefits of the United States-PRC income tax treaty may elect to treat the gain as PRC source income. Pursuant to
applicable regulations, however, if a U.S. Holder is not eligible for the benefits of the United States-PRC income tax treaty or does not
elect to apply the United States-PRC income tax treaty, then such holder may not be able to claim a foreign tax credit arising from any
PRC tax imposed on the disposition of ADSs or ordinary shares. The rules regarding foreign tax credits and deduction of foreign taxes
are complex. U.S. Holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the availability of a foreign tax credit or deduction in light of their
particular circumstances, including their eligibility for benefits under the United States-PRC income tax treaty and the potential impact of
applicable regulations.
As discussed above, we believe that we were a PFIC for the taxable year ended December 31, 2023, and we will likely be classified
as a PFIC for our current taxable year. U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the tax considerations of the sale or
other disposition of our ADSs or ordinary shares under their particular circumstances.
Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules
As discussed above, we believe that we were a PFIC for the taxable year ended December 31, 2023, and we will likely be classified
as a PFIC for our current taxable year. If we are classified as a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. Holder holds our ADSs or
ordinary shares, and unless the U.S. Holder makes a mark-to-market election (as described below), the U.S. Holder will generally be
subject to special tax rules that have a penalizing effect, regardless of whether we remain a PFIC, on (i) any excess distribution that we
make to the U.S. Holder (which generally means any distribution paid during a taxable year to a U.S. Holder that is greater than
125 percent of the average annual distributions paid in the three preceding taxable years or, if shorter, the U.S. Holder’s holding period
for the ADSs or ordinary shares), and (ii) any gain realized on the sale or other disposition (including, under certain circumstances, a
pledge) of ADSs or ordinary shares. Under the PFIC rules:
● the excess distribution or gain will be allocated ratably over the U.S. Holder’s holding period for the ADSs or ordinary shares;
● the amount allocated to the current taxable year and any taxable years in the U.S. Holder’s holding period prior to the first
taxable year in which we are classified as a PFIC, or a pre-PFIC year, will be taxable as ordinary income; and
● the amount allocated to each prior taxable year, other than a pre-PFIC year, will be subject to tax at the highest tax rate in effect
for individuals or corporations, as appropriate, for that year, increased by an additional tax equal to the interest on the resulting
tax deemed deferred with respect to each such taxable year.
If we are a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. Holder holds our ADSs or ordinary shares and any of our subsidiaries is
also a PFIC, which we refer to as a lower-tier PFIC, such U.S. Holder would be treated as owning a proportionate amount (by value) of
the shares of such lower-tier PFIC for purposes of the application of these rules. U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors
regarding the application of the PFIC rules to any of our subsidiaries.
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As an alternative to the foregoing rules, a U.S. Holder of “marketable stock” (as defined below) in a PFIC may make a mark-to-
market election with respect to such stock, provided that such stock is regularly traded on a qualified exchange or other market, as
defined in the applicable United States Treasury regulations. For those purposes, our ADSs, but not our ordinary shares, are listed on the
Nasdaq Global Market, which is a qualified exchange. We anticipate that our ADSs should qualify as being regularly traded, but no
assurances may be given in this regard. If a U.S. Holder makes this election, the holder will generally (i) include as ordinary income for
each taxable year that we are a PFIC the excess, if any, of the fair market value of ADSs held at the end of the taxable year over the
adjusted tax basis of such ADSs and (ii) deduct as an ordinary loss the excess, if any, of the adjusted tax basis of the ADSs over the fair
market value of such ADSs held at the end of the taxable year, but such deduction will only be allowed to the extent of the amount
previously included in income as a result of the mark-to-market election. The U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in the ADSs would be
adjusted to reflect any income or loss resulting from the mark-to-market election. If a U.S. Holder makes a mark-to-market election in
respect of a corporation classified as a PFIC and such corporation ceases to be classified as a PFIC, the holder will not be required to take
into account the gain or loss described above during any period that such corporation is not classified as a PFIC. If a U.S. Holder makes a
mark-to-market election, any gain such U.S. Holder recognizes upon the sale or other disposition of our ADSs in a year when we are a
PFIC will be treated as ordinary income and any loss will be treated as ordinary loss, but such loss will only be treated as ordinary loss to
the extent of the net amount previously included in income as a result of the mark-to-market election. If a U.S. Holder makes a mark-to-
market election it will be effective for the taxable year for which the election is made and all subsequent taxable years unless the ADSs
are no longer treated as marketable stock or the Internal Revenue Service consents to the revocation of the election.
Because a mark-to-market election cannot technically be made for any lower-tier PFICs that we may own, a U.S. Holder may
continue to be subject to the PFIC rules with respect to such U.S. Holder’s indirect interest in any investments held by us that are treated
as an equity interest in a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
We do not intend to provide information necessary for U.S. Holders to make qualified electing fund elections which, if available,
would result in tax treatment different from the general tax treatment for PFICs described above.
If a U.S. Holder owns our ADSs or ordinary shares during any taxable year that we are a PFIC, the holder must generally file an
annual IRS Form 8621. Each U.S. Holder is urged to consult its tax advisor concerning the U.S. federal income tax consequences of
purchasing, holding and disposing ADSs or ordinary shares if we are or become a PFIC, including the possibility of making a mark-to-
market election.
F. Dividends and Paying Agents
Not applicable.
G. Statement by Experts
Not applicable.
H. Documents on Display
We are subject to periodic reporting and other informational requirements of the Exchange Act as applicable to foreign private
issuers, and are required to file reports and other information with the SEC. Specifically, we are required to file annually an annual report
on Form 20-F within four months after the end of each fiscal year, which is December 31. All information filed with the SEC can be
obtained over the internet at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. You can request copies of documents, upon payment of a duplicating fee,
by writing to the SEC. As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt from the rules under the Exchange Act prescribing the furnishing and
content of quarterly reports and proxy statements, and officers, directors and principal shareholders are exempt from the reporting and
short-swing profit recovery provisions contained in Section 16 of the Exchange Act.
We will furnish Citibank, N.A., the depositary of our ADSs, with our annual reports, which will include a review of operations and
annual audited consolidated financial statements prepared in conformity with U.S. GAAP, and all notices of shareholders’ meetings and
other reports and communications that are made generally available to our shareholders. The depositary will make such notices, reports
and communications available to holders of ADSs and, upon our request, will mail to all record holders of ADSs the information
contained in any notice of a shareholders’ meeting received by the depositary from us.
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I.
Subsidiary Information
Not applicable.
J. Annual Report to Security Holders
Not applicable.
ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Market Risks
Interest and Credit Risk
We had cash, cash equivalents, short-term investments and long-term restricted cash of RMB2,343.6 million (US$330.1 million) as
of December 31, 2023. Our exposure to interest rate risk primarily relates to the interest income generated by excess cash, which is
mostly held in interest-bearing bank deposits. Interest-earning instruments carry a degree of interest rate risk. We have not been exposed
to material risks due to changes in interest rates, and we have not used any derivative financial instruments to manage our interest risk
exposure.
Our credit risk is primarily attributable to the carrying amounts of cash, cash equivalents and long-term restricted cash. The carrying
amounts of cash, cash equivalents and long-term restricted cash represent the maximum amount of loss due to credit risk. We mainly
place or invest cash, cash equivalents and long-term restricted cash with state-owned or reputable financial institutions in the PRC, and
reputable financial institutions outside of the PRC. We do not believe that our cash, cash equivalents and long-term restricted cash have
significant risk of default or illiquidity, and we will continually monitor the credit worthiness of these financial institutions. While we
believe our cash, cash equivalents and long-term restricted cash do not contain excessive risk, future investments may be subject to
adverse changes in market value.
Foreign Exchange Risk
Most of our revenues are denominated in U.S. dollars, a significant portion of our expenses are denominated in U.S. dollars, a small
portion of our expenses are denominated in RMB, and most of our assets and liabilities are denominated in U.S. dollars. We do not
believe that we currently have any significant direct foreign exchange risk and have not used any derivative financial instruments to
hedge exposure to such risk. Although our exposure to foreign exchange risks should be limited in general, the value of your investment
in our ADSs will be affected by the exchange rate between U.S. dollar and other currencies of the jurisdictions where our contractors
locate, because we need to incur expenses in local currencies, while our ADSs will be traded in U.S. dollars.
Other currencies have fluctuated against the U.S. dollar, at times significantly and unpredictably. It is difficult to predict how market
forces or government policies may impact the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and other currencies in the future.
To the extent that we need to convert U.S. dollars into other currencies for our operations, appreciation of these currencies against
the U.S. dollar would have an adverse effect on the converted amount of the other currencies. Conversely, if we decide to convert other
currencies into U.S. dollars for the purpose of making payments for dividends on our ordinary shares or ADSs or for other business
purposes, appreciation of the U.S. dollar against these currencies would have a negative effect on the U.S. dollar amounts available to us.
A decline in the value of other currencies against the U.S. dollar could reduce the U.S. dollar equivalent of our financial results, the value
of your investment in our company and the dividends that we may pay in the future, if any, all of which may have a material adverse
effect on the prices of our ADS.
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ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES
A. Debt Securities
Not applicable.
B. Warrants and Rights
Not applicable.
C. Other Securities
Not applicable.
D. American Depositary Shares
Fees and Charges Our ADS Holders May Have to Pay
The depositary of our ADS facility, Citibank, N.A., charges the following fees for the services performed under the terms of the
deposit agreement:
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ADS Fees
The following ADS fees are payable under the terms of the Deposit Agreement:
Service
Rate
By Whom Paid
(1) Issuance of ADSs ( e.g., an issuance
upon a deposit of Shares, upon a
change in the ADS(s)-to-Share(s)
ratio, or for any other reason),
excluding issuances as a result of
distributions described in paragraph
(4) below.
(2) Cancellation of ADSs ( e.g., a
cancellation of ADSs for Delivery
of deposited Shares, upon a change
in the ADS(s)-to-Share(s) ratio, or
for any other reason).
(3) Distribution of cash dividends or
other cash distributions ( e.g., upon
a
and other
rights
sale of
entitlements).
(4) Distribution of ADSs pursuant to (i)
stock dividends or other free stock
distributions, or (ii) an exercise of
rights to purchase additional ADSs.
(5) Distribution of securities other than
ADSs or
to purchase
rights
additional ADSs ( e.g., spin-off
shares).
(6) ADS Services.
(7) Registration of ADS Transfers ( e.g.,
upon a registration of the transfer of
registered ownership of ADSs, upon
a transfer of ADSs into DTC and
vice versa, or for any other reason).
conversion
(8) Conversion of ADSs of one series
for ADSs of another series ( e.g.,
Partial
upon
Full
Entitlement ADSs
Entitlement ADSs,
upon
conversion of Restricted ADSs into
freely transferable ADSs, and vice
versa ).
for
or
of
Up to US$5.00 per 100 ADSs (or fraction
thereof) issued.
Person for whom ADSs are issued.
Up to US$5.00 per 100 ADSs (or fraction
thereof) cancelled.
Person for whom ADSs are being cancelled.
Up to US$5.00 per 100 ADSs (or fraction
thereof) held.
Person to whom the distribution is made.
Up to US$5.00 per 100 ADSs (or fraction
thereof) held.
Person to whom the distribution is made.
Up to US$5.00 per 100 ADSs (or fraction
thereof) held.
Person to whom the distribution is made.
Up to US$5.00 per 100 ADSs (or fraction
thereof) held on the applicable record date(s)
established by the Depositary.
Person holding ADSs on the applicable
record date(s) established by the Depositary.
Up to US$5.00 per 100 ADSs (or fraction
thereof) transferred.
Person for whom or to whom ADSs are
transferred.
Up to US$5.00 per 100 ADSs (or fraction
thereof) converted.
Person for whom ADSs are converted or to
whom the converted ADSs are delivered.
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Charges
An ADS holder will also be responsible for the following ADS charges:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
taxes (including applicable interest and penalties) and other governmental charges;
such registration fees as may from time to time be in effect for the registration of Shares or other Deposited Securities on
the share register and applicable to transfers of Shares or other Deposited Securities to or from the name of the Custodian,
the Depositary or any nominees upon the making of deposits and withdrawals, respectively;
such cable, telex and facsimile transmission and delivery expenses as are expressly provided in the Deposit Agreement to
be at the expense of the person depositing Shares or withdrawing Deposited Property or of the Holders arid Beneficial
Owners of ADSs;
in connection with the conversion of Foreign Currency, the fees, expenses, spreads, taxes and other charges of the
Depositary and/or conversion service providers (which may be a division, branch or Affiliate of the Depositary). Such fees,
expenses, spreads, taxes, and other charges should be deducted from the Foreign Currency;
any reasonable and customary out-of-pocket expenses incurred in such conversion and/or on behalf of the Holders and
Beneficial Owners in complying with currency exchange control or other governmental requirements; and
the fees, charges, costs and expenses incurred by the Depositary, the Custodian, or any nominee in connection with the
ADR program.
The above fees and charges may at any time and from time to time be changed by agreement between the Depositary and us.
Fees and Other Payments Made by the Depositary to Us
Our depositary anticipates to reimburse us for certain expenses we incur in respect of the ADR program established pursuant to the
Deposit Agreement, by making available a portion of the ADS fees charged in respect of the ADR program or otherwise, upon such
terms and conditions as the Depositary agrees with us from time to time. As of the date of this annual report, we have received
approximately US$3.7 million from the depositary.
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ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
PART II
None.
ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS
See “Item 10. Additional Information—B. Memorandum and Articles of Association” for a description of the rights of securities
holders, which remain unchanged.
ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Our management, with the participation of our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, has performed an evaluation of the
effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period
covered by this report, as required by Rule 13a-15(b) under the Exchange Act.
Based upon that evaluation, our management has concluded that, as of December 31, 2023, our disclosure controls and procedures
were effective in ensuring that the information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file and furnish under the Exchange
Act was recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that the
information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and
communicated to our management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding
required disclosure.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in
Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Our internal control over financial reporting is a
process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting and the preparation of financial
statements for external purposes in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) in the United States of America
and includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly
reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of our company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as
necessary to permit preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures of our
company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and (3) provide reasonable assurance
regarding prevention or timely detection of the unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our company’s assets that could have a
material effect on the consolidated financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also,
projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risks that controls may become inadequate because of
changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
As required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and related rules as promulgated by the SEC, our management
including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer assessed the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of
December 31, 2023 using the criteria set forth in the report “Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013)” published by the
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this evaluation, management concluded that our
internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2023.
Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm
The effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers
Zhong Tian LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, who has also audited our consolidated financial statements for
the year ended December 31, 2023.
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Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by this annual report
on Form 20-F that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT
Our board of directors has determined that Conor Chia-hung Yang, a member of our audit committee and independent director
(under the standards under Rule 5605(c)(2) of the Nasdaq Stock Market Rules and Rule 10A-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934), is an audit committee financial expert.
ITEM 16B. CODE OF ETHICS
Our board of directors adopted a code of business conduct and ethics that applies to our directors, officers and employees in
November 2019. We have posted a copy of our code of business conduct and ethics on our website at http://ir.i-mabbiopharma.com/.
ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The following table sets forth the aggregate fees by categories specified below in connection with certain professional services
rendered by PricewaterhouseCoopers Zhong Tian LLP, our principal external auditors, for the periods indicated. We did not pay any
other fees to our auditors during the periods indicated below.
For the Year Ended December 31,
2022
2023
Audit fees (1)
Tax fees (2)
All other fees
Notes:
(in thousands of RMB)
5,450
86
—
5,900
—
—
(1) “Audit fees” means the aggregate fees billed for professional services rendered by our principal auditors for the audit of our annual
financial statements and the review of our comparative interim financial statements, including audit fees relating to our planned dual
listing.
(2) “Tax fees” includes fees billed for tax consultations.
The policy of our audit committee is to pre-approve all audit and other service provided by PricewaterhouseCoopers Zhong Tian
LLP as described above, other than those for de minimis services which are approved by the audit committee prior to the completion of
the audit.
ITEM 16D. EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES
None.
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ITEM 16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS
On July 29, 2021, we announced that our board of directors had authorized a stock repurchase program, which we refer to as the
2022 Stock Repurchase Program, under which we were authorized to repurchase up to US$40 million of our ordinary shares in the form
of ADS for a 12-month period. The 2022 Stock Repurchase Program became effective on September 12, 2022, the date on which a
formal stock repurchase plan engagement agreement was signed with a qualified broker-dealer(s), and was terminated on September 11,
2023. On August 17, 2023, we announced that our board of directors had authorized another stock repurchase program, which we refer to
as the 2023 Stock Repurchase Program, under which we may repurchase up to US$40 million of our ordinary shares in the form of ADS
for a 12-month period. The 2023 Stock Repurchase Program became effective on August 15, 2023. During the 12 -month period starting
from August 15, 2023, we may acquire our ADSs in the open market at prevailing market prices and through privately negotiated
transactions, in block trades and/or through other legally permissible means, as market conditions, our cash balance and applicable laws
and regulations may allow. The program does not obligate I-Mab to acquire any particular number of its ADSs.
In 2023, we purchased an aggregate of 4,633,386 ADSs under our stock repurchase programs. The table below is a summary of the
shares repurchased by us in 2023. All shares were repurchased in the open market pursuant to the authorized stock repurchase programs.
Period
April 2023
May 2023
June 2023
July 2023
September 2023
October 2023
November 2023
December 2023
Total
Total Number of
Average Price ADSs Purchased as
Part of the Publicly
Announced Plans
Paid Per
ADS
Approximate
Dollar Value
of ADSs that May
Yet be Purchased
Under the Plans
US$3.06
US$3.06
US$3.23
US$2.67
US$1.27
US$1.36
US$1.60
US$1.52
US$1.87
297,868 US$36.1 million
987,023 US$34.0 million
1,149,880 US$33.5 million
1,242,142 US$33.2 million
1,800,024 US$39.3 million
3,250,130 US$37.3 million
4,066,050 US$36.0 million
4,633,386 US$35.2 million
4,633,386 US$35.2 million
Total Number of
ADSs Purchased
297,868
689,155
162,857
92,262
557,882
1,450,106
815,920
567,336
4,633,386
ITEM 16F. CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT
Not applicable.
ITEM 16G. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
As a Cayman Islands company listed on Nasdaq, we are subject to the Nasdaq corporate governance listing standards. However,
Nasdaq rules permit a foreign private issuer like us to follow the corporate governance practices of its home country. Certain corporate
governance practices in the Cayman Islands, which is our home country, may differ significantly from the Nasdaq corporate governance
listing standards.
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In lieu of (i) the requirements of Rule 5605(b) of the Nasdaq Rules that a majority of a Nasdaq-listed company’s board of directors
be independent directors as defined in Rule 5605(a)(2), (ii) the requirements of Rule 5605(d) that a compensation committee be
comprised solely of independent directors, (iii) the requirements of Rule 5605(e) that a nominating committee be comprised solely of
independent directors, (iv) the requirements of Rule 5620(a) that each Nasdaq-listed company should hold an annual general meeting of
shareholders no later than one year after the end of its fiscal year-end, and (v) the requirements of Rule 5635(c) of the Nasdaq Rules that
shareholder approval be required prior to the issuance of securities when a stock option or purchase plan is to be established or materially
amended or other equity compensation arrangement made or materially amended, pursuant to which stock may be acquired by officers,
directors, employees, or consultants, we have followed and intend to continue to follow our home country practices with respect to the
composition of our board of directors and board committees, annual shareholders meeting as well as the approval for adoption and
material amendment to our equity-based compensation plans. If we choose to follow any other home country practice in the future, our
shareholders may be afforded less protection than they otherwise would under the Nasdaq corporate governance listing standards
applicable to U.S. domestic issuers. See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—General Risks Related to Our ADSs—We are a
foreign private issuer within the meaning of the rules under the Exchange Act, and as such we are exempt from certain provisions
applicable to U.S. domestic public companies.”
ITEM 16H. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE
Not applicable.
ITEM 16I. DISCLOSURE REGARDING FOREIGN JURISDICTIONS THAT PREVENT INSPECTIONS
Not applicable.
ITEM 16J. INSIDER TRADING POLICIES
Not applicable.
ITEM 16K. CYBERSECURITY
Risk Management and Strategy
We have implemented comprehensive cybersecurity risk assessment procedures to ensure effectiveness in cybersecurity
management, strategy and governance and reporting cybersecurity risks. We have also integrated cybersecurity risk management into our
overall enterprise risk management system.
We are committed to safeguarding our systems and data. Our approach to managing internal and external cybersecurity risks and
safeguarding sensitive data is multi-faceted, involving technological safeguards, procedural protocols, a rigorous program of surveillance
on our corporate network, continuous testing of aspects of our security posture internally and with third-party consultants or
collaborators, a solid incident response framework and regular cybersecurity training sessions for our employees. Our IT department is
actively engaged in continuous monitoring of the performance of our infrastructure to ensure prompt identification and response to
potential issues, including potential cybersecurity threats. We use third-party service providers to assist us from time to time to identify,
assess, and manage material risks from cybersecurity threats, including for example: professional services firms, cybersecurity
consultants and cybersecurity software providers.
As of the date of this annual report, we have not experienced any material cybersecurity incidents or identified any material
cybersecurity threats that have affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect us, our business strategy, results of operations or
financial condition.
Governance
Our nominating and corporate governance committee of our board of directors is responsible for overseeing our cybersecurity risk
management and is informed on risks from cybersecurity threats. The nominating and corporate governance committee shall review,
approve and maintain oversight of the disclosure (i) on Form 6-K for material cybersecurity incidents (if any) and (ii) related to
cybersecurity matters in the periodic reports (including annual report on Form 20-F) of our company.
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On the management level, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, collectively referred as the Cybersecurity Risk
Management Officers, are responsible for assessing, identifying and managing material risks from cybersecurity threats to our company
and monitoring the prevention, detection, mitigation and remediation of material cybersecurity incidents. Our Cybersecurity Risk
Management Officers report to our nominating and corporate governance committee (i) periodically regarding their assessment,
identification and management on material risks from cybersecurity threats happened in the ordinary course of our business operations
and (ii) on disclosure concerning cybersecurity matters in our Form 6-K for material cybersecurity incidents (if any) and our annual
report on Form 20-F.
If a cybersecurity incident occurs, our Cybersecurity Risk Management Officers will promptly organize relevant personnel for
internal assessment and, depending on the situation, seek the opinions of external experts and legal advisors. If it is determined that the
incident could potentially be a material cybersecurity event, our Cybersecurity Risk Management Officers will promptly report the
incident and relevant assessment results to our nominating and corporate governance committee, who will decide on the relevant
response measures and whether any disclosure is necessary. If such disclosure is determined to be necessary, our Cybersecurity Risk
Management Officers shall promptly prepare disclosure material for review and approval by our nominating and corporate governance
committee before it is disseminated to the public.
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ITEM 17.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
PART III
We have elected to provide financial statements pursuant to Item 18.
ITEM 18.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The consolidated financial statements of I-Mab are included at the end of this annual report.
ITEM 19. EXHIBITS
Exhibit
Number
1.1
Description of Document
Sixth Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Registrant (incorporated herein by reference
to Exhibit 3.2 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-234363), as amended, initially filed with the SEC on
October 29, 2019)
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
Registrant’s Specimen American Depositary Receipt (included in Exhibit 2.3)
Registrant’s Specimen Certificate for Ordinary Shares (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the registration
statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-234363), as amended, initially filed with the SEC on October 29, 2019)
Deposit Agreement dated as of January 22, 2020, among the Registrant the depositary and holder of the American
Depositary Receipt (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the registration statement on Form S-8 (File No.
333-239871) filed with the SEC on July 15, 2020)
Fourth Amended and Restated Shareholders Agreement, dated as of July 25, 2019 between the Registrant and other parties
thereto (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-234363), as
amended, initially filed with the SEC on October 29, 2019)
Description of American Depositary Shares of the Registrant (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.5 to the annual
report on Form 20-F (File No. 001-39173) filed with the SEC on April 29, 2020)
Description of Ordinary Shares of the Registrant (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.6 to the annual report on
Form 20-F (File No. 001-39173) filed with the SEC on April 29, 2020)
Second Amended and Restated 2017 Employee Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the
registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-234363), as amended, initially filed with the SEC on October 29, 2019)
Second Amended and Restated 2018 Employee Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the
registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-234363), as amended, initially filed with the SEC on October 29, 2019)
2019 Share Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the registration statement on Form F-1
(File No. 333-234363), as amended, initially filed with the SEC on October 29, 2019)
2020 Share Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the registration statement on Form S-8 (File
No. 333-239871) filed with the SEC on July 15, 2020)
2021 Share Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the registration statement on Form S-8 (File
No. 333-256603) filed with the SEC on May 28, 2021)
2022 Share Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the registration statement on Form S-8 (File
No. 333-265684) filed with the SEC on June 17, 2022)
Form of Indemnification Agreement, between the Registrant and its directors and executive officers (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-234363), as amended, initially filed with
the SEC on October 29, 2019)
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Exhibit
Number
4.8
4.9
4.10†
4.11
4.12
4.13
4.14†
4.15
4.16
4.17
4.18
4.19†
4.20†
4.21†
Description of Document
Form of Employment Agreement, between the Registrant and its executive officers (incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit 10.4 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-234363), as amended, initially filed with the SEC on
October 29, 2019)
Framework Agreement, dated as of May 26, 2017, among the Registrant and the other parties thereto (incorporated herein
by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-234363), as amended, initially filed
with the SEC on October 29, 2019)
License and Collaboration Agreement, dated as of November 30, 2017, between the Registrant and MorphoSys AG
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-234363), as
amended, initially filed with the SEC on October 29, 2019)
Intellectual Property Assignment and License Agreement, dated as of October 16, 2015, between Tasgen Bio-tech (Tianjin)
Co., Ltd. and Genexine Inc. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the registration statement on Form F-1
(File No. 333-234363), as amended, initially filed with the SEC on October 29, 2019)
Intellectual Property License Agreement, dated as of December 22, 2017, between the Registrant and Genexine, Inc.
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-234363), as
amended, initially filed with the SEC on October 29, 2019)
License and Sublicense Agreement, dated as of November 4, 2016, between the Registrant and Ferring International Center
SA (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-234363), as
amended, initially filed with the SEC on October 29, 2019)
License and Collaboration Agreement, dated as of July 26, 2018, between the Registrant and ABL Bio (incorporated herein
by reference to Exhibit 4.12 to the annual report on Form 20-F (File No. 001-39173) filed with the SEC on April 29, 2020)
English translation of Product Development Agreement, dated as of December 10, 2018, between I-Mab Shanghai and
CSPC Baike (Shandong) Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the registration
statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-234363), as amended, initially filed with the SEC on October 29, 2019)
Subscription Agreement, dated as of September 3, 2020, among the Registrant and certain affiliates of Hillhouse
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2 of the Schedule 13D (File No. 005-91674) jointly filed by Hillhouse Capital
Advisors, Ltd. and Hillhouse Capital Management, Ltd. with the SEC on September 14, 2020)
Amendment to Subscription Agreement, dated as of December 17, 2020, among the Registrant and certain affiliates of
Hillhouse (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 5 of the Schedule 13D/A (File No. 005-91674) jointly filed by
Hillhouse Capital Advisors, Ltd. and Hillhouse Capital Management, Ltd. with the SEC on December 21, 2020)
Form of Subscription Agreement, dated as of September 3, 2020, between the Registrant and certain investors (other than
Hillhouse) (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-
251050), as amended, initially filed with the SEC on December 1, 2020)
License and Collaboration Agreement, dated as of September 3, 2020, among I-Mab Shanghai, I-Mab US and AbbVie
Ireland Unlimited Company (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the registration statement on Form F-1
(File No. 333- 251050), as amended, initially filed with the SEC on December 1, 2020)
English translation of Exclusive Development, Manufacture, and Sales Collaboration Agreement, dated as of November
10, 2021, among I-Mab Biopharma Hong Kong Limited, I-Mab Biopharma Co., Ltd., Jumpcan Pharmaceutical Group Co.,
Ltd. and Jiangsu Jiyuan Medicine Co., Ltd. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.24 to the annual report on Form
20-F (File No. 001-39173) filed with the SEC on April 29, 2022)
Amendment No.1 to the License and Collaboration Agreement dated as of August 15, 2022 among I-Mab Shanghai, I-Mab
US and AbbVie Global Enterprise Ltd. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.22 to the annual report on Form 20-F
(File No. 001-39173) filed with the SEC on May 1, 2023)
172
Table of Contents
Exhibit
Number
4.22†
4.23†
4.24
4.25
4.26
8.1*
11.1
12.1*
12.2*
Description of Document
English translation of Shareholders Agreement, dated as of September 15, 2020, among I-Mab Biopharma (Hangzhou) Co.,
Ltd. and other parties thereto (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to the registration statement on Form F-1
(File No. 333-251050), as amended, initially filed with the SEC on December 1, 2020)
English translation of Equity Transfer Agreement of I-Mab Biopharma Co., Ltd., dated February 6, 2024, entered into by
and among I-Mab Bio-tech (Tianjin) Co., Ltd., I-Mab Biopharma (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd. and I-Mab Biopharma Co., Ltd.
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to the current report on Form 6-K (File No. 001-39173) furnished with the
SEC on February 7, 2024)
English translation of Equity Transfer Agreement of I-Mab Biopharma (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd., dated February 6, 2024,
entered into by and among I-Mab Biopharma Hong Kong Limited, I-Mab Biopharma (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd. and the other
parties thereto (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.3 to the current report on Form 6-K (File No. 001-39173)
furnished with the SEC on February 7, 2024)
English translation of I-Mab Biopharma (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd. Investment Agreement, dated February 6, 2024, entered into
by and among I-Mab, I-Mab Biopharma Co., Ltd., I-Mab Biopharma (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd. and the other parties thereto
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.4 to the current report on Form 6-K (File No. 001-39173) furnished with the
SEC on February 7, 2024)
English translation of I-Mab Biopharma (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd. Shareholders’ Agreement, dated February 6, 2024, entered
into by and among I-Mab, I-Mab Biopharma Hong Kong Limited, I-Mab Biopharma (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd. and the other
parties thereto (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.5 to the current report on Form 6-K (File No. 001-39173)
furnished with the SEC on February 7, 2024)
Principal Subsidiaries of the Registrant
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics of the Registrant (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the registration
statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-234363), as amended, initially filed with the SEC on October 29, 2019)
Certification by Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Certification by Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
13.1**
Certification by Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
13.2**
Certification by Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
15.1*
15.2*
15.3*
97.1*
Consent of JunHe LLP
Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers Zhong Tian LLP
Consent of Harney Westwood & Riegels
Clawback Policy of the Registrant
101.INS*
Inline XBRL Instance Document—this instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL
tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document
101.SCH*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
173
Table of Contents
Exhibit
Number
Description of Document
104
Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document)
*
Filed herewith.
** Furnished herewith.
†
Portions of this exhibit have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(10)(iv) of Regulation S-K.
174
Table of Contents
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.
SIGNATURES
Date: April 30, 2024
I-MAB
By:
/s/ Joseph Skelton
Name:Joseph Skelton
Title: Chief Financial Officer
175
Table of Contents
I-Mab
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PricewaterhouseCoopers Zhong Tian LLP, Shanghai, China,
Auditor Firm ID:1424)
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2022 and 2023
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss for the Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Page
F-2
F-5
F-6
F-7
F-10
F-13
F-1
Table of Contents
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of I-Mab
Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of I-Mab and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2023
and 2022, and the related consolidated statements of comprehensive loss, of changes in shareholders’ equity and of cash flows for each of
the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, including the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial
statements”). We also have audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria
established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway
Commission (COSO).
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the
Company as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period
ended December 31, 2023 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our
opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023,
based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the COSO.
Basis for Opinions
The Company’s management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over
financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management’s
Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 15. Our responsibility is to express opinions on the
Company’s consolidated financial statements and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are
a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to
be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations
of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error
or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the
consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures
included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits
also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall
presentation of the consolidated financial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an
understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating
the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other
procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the
maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the
company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in
accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding
prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on
the financial statements.
F-2
Table of Contents
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of
any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in
conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements
that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (i) relate to accounts or disclosures that are
material to the consolidated financial statements and (ii) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The
communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole,
and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the
accounts or disclosures to which they relate.
Accrued Research and Development Expenses
As described in Notes 2.16 and 10 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has entered into various research and
development contracts with research organizations and other companies. Total research and development costs incurred during the year
ended December 31, 2023 were RMB811 million, and research and development costs accrued were RMB181 million as of December
31, 2023. Management applied significant judgment in estimating the progress of its research and development activities and completion
of or likelihood of achieving milestone events per underlying agreements when estimating the research and development costs to be
accrued at each reporting period end.
The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures relating to accrued research and development expenses is
a critical audit matter are the significant judgment made by management in estimating the accrued research and development expenses,
including the estimation of the progress of its research and development activities and completion of or likelihood of achieving milestone
events per underlying agreements. This in turn led to a relatively high degree of auditor judgement, subjectivity, and effort in performing
procedures relating to management’s estimation of accrued research and development costs and evaluating the related audit evidence.
Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on
the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of controls relating to the estimation of accrued
research and development costs. These procedures also included, among others, (i) testing management’s process for estimating accrued
research and development costs; (ii) evaluating the appropriateness of the method used by management to develop the estimates; (iii)
evaluating the reasonableness of the estimates related to the progress of research and development activities and completion of or
likelihood of achieving milestone events per underlying agreements; and (iv) testing the completeness and accuracy of underlying data
used to estimate accrued research and development expenses.
Valuation of put right liabilities
As described in Notes 2.4, 8 and 15 to the consolidated financial statements, the put right written by the Company to domestic investors
in its affiliate was recorded as a freestanding equity-linked instrument and classified as put right liabilities. The fair value of the put right
liabilities was determined by management using an option pricing model. The significant unobservable inputs used in the option pricing
model included spot price, estimated volatility and probability of triggering event for redemption option, among which the spot price was
determined by management using the market approach and the expected volatility was estimated based on daily stock prices of the
comparable companies for a period with length commensurate to the expected terms of redemption event. The significant unobservable
inputs used in the market approach include estimated volatility and probability of triggering event for redemption option. The Company
recognized the put right liabilities of RMB98 million as of December 31, 2023 and the increase in fair value of the put right liabilities of
RMB8 million during the year ended December 31, 2023.
The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures relating to the valuation of put right liabilities is a critical
audit matter are the significant judgment made by management in determining the fair value of the put right liabilities related to
estimated volatility and probability of triggering event for redemption option, which in turn led to a high degree of auditor judgment,
subjectivity, and effort in performing procedures relating to the fair value measurement of the put right liabilities and evaluating the
related audit evidence, and the audit effort involved the use of professionals with specialized skill and knowledge.
F-3
Table of Contents
Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on
the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of controls relating to management’s valuation
of the put right liabilities. These procedures also included, among others, testing management’s process for estimating the fair value of
the put right liabilities, which included (i) evaluating the appropriateness of the valuation methods, (ii) testing the completeness,
mathematical accuracy and relevance of the underlying data used in the option pricing model and market approach, and (iii) evaluating
the reasonableness of significant assumptions related to estimated volatility and probability of triggering event for redemption option.
The estimated volatility was evaluated by considering the relevance and appropriateness of the comparable company selection for the
volatility calculation. The probability of triggering event for redemption option was evaluated by considering the business development
status and plan of the affiliate. Professionals with specialized skill and knowledge were used to assist in evaluating the appropriateness
of the Company’s valuation methods and the reasonableness of the significant assumptions related to the estimated volatility applied.
Goodwill impairment assessments
As described in Notes 2.12 and 7 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company recognized a full impairment of RMB163
million against the goodwill balance as of December 31, 2023. Management performs impairment tests to assess the carrying value of
goodwill on an annual basis or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that goodwill might be impaired. Where
the qualitative assessment indicated that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount,
including goodwill, a quantitative goodwill impairment test is performed. Goodwill impairment charge is recognized for the amount by
which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value. Fair value of the reporting unit is estimated by management using a
discounted cash flow model. The use of discounted cash flow model requires management to make judgments and assumptions related to
future revenues, discount rate and terminal growth rate. Based on the goodwill impairment test of the Company’s reporting unit as of
December 31, 2023, the carrying amount of the Company’s single reporting unit had exceeded its estimated fair value and therefore, a
full impairment was recognized against the goodwill balance.
The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures relating to the goodwill impairment assessments is a
critical audit matter are the significant judgment made by management in developing the fair value of the reporting unit. This in turn led
to a high degree of auditor judgment, subjectivity, and effort in performing procedures and in evaluating management’s significant
assumptions related to future revenues, discount rate and terminal growth rate, and the audit effort involved the use of professionals with
specialized skill and knowledge.
Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on
the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of controls relating to management’s goodwill
impairment assessment process, including controls over the valuation of the Company’s reporting unit. These procedures also included,
among others, testing management’s identification of the reporting unit and the process for developing the fair value estimates, which
included (i) evaluating the appropriateness of the discounted cash flow model, (ii) testing the completeness, accuracy and relevance of
the underlying data used in the discounted cash flow model, and (iii) evaluating the reasonableness of the significant assumptions related
to future revenues, discount rate and terminal growth rate. Evaluating management’s assumptions related to future revenues, discount rate
and terminal growth rate involved evaluating whether the assumptions used by management were reasonable considering the current and
historical performance of the reporting unit; the consistency with relevant industry and market data; and whether these assumptions were
consistent with evidence obtained in other areas of the audit. Professionals with specialized skill and knowledge were used to assist in the
evaluation of the Company’s discounted cash flow model, and the discount rate and terminal growth rate assumptions.
/s/PricewaterhouseCoopers Zhong Tian LLP
Shanghai, the People’s Republic of China
April 30, 2024
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2018.
F-4
Table of Contents
I-MAB
Consolidated Balance Sheets
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
Assets
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Short-term restricted cash
Short-term investments
Prepayments and other receivables
Total current assets
Long-term restricted cash
Property, equipment and software
Operating lease right-of-use assets
Intangible assets
Goodwill
Investments accounted for using the equity method
Other non-current assets
Total assets
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Current liabilities
Short-term bank borrowings
Accruals and other payables
Contract liabilities, current
Operating lease liabilities, current
Total current liabilities
Put right liabilities
Contract liabilities, non-current
Operating lease liabilities, non-current
Other non-current liabilities
Total liabilities
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders’ equity
Ordinary shares (US$0.0001 par value, 800,000,000 shares authorized as of
December 31, 2022 and 2023; 190,879,919 and 185,613,662 shares issued and
outstanding as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively)
Treasury stock
Additional paid-in capital
Accumulated other comprehensive income
Accumulated deficit
Total shareholders’ equity
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Notes
2022
RMB
As of December 31,
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
RMB
2.7
2.4, 2.8
3
2.7
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
5
2.4, 8
14
5
10
18
12
12
3,214,005
96,764
235,429
80,278
3,626,476
—
60,841
63,125
118,888
162,574
30,850
10,911
4,073,665
18,956
706,572
8,677
23,961
758,166
88,687
267,878
32,069
16,963
1,163,763
2,141,445
—
143,221
52,003
2,336,669
58,913
36,511
46,400
118,110
—
12,082
4,282
2,612,967
29,970
357,754
2,200
21,890
411,814
98,110
292,124
23,099
69,664
894,811
301,616
—
20,172
7,325
329,113
8,298
5,142
6,535
16,635
—
1,702
603
368,028
4,221
50,389
310
3,083
58,003
13,819
41,145
3,253
9,811
126,031
132
(21,249)
133
(56,803)
9,579,375
9,804,379
213,794
(6,862,150)
2,909,902
4,073,665
298,291
(8,327,844)
1,718,156
2,612,967
19
(8,001)
1,380,918
42,013
(1,172,952)
241,997
368,028
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-5
Table of Contents
I-MAB
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
Revenues
Licensing and collaboration revenue
Supply of investigational products
Total revenues
Cost of revenues
Expenses
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses
Impairment of goodwill
Loss from operations
Interest income
Interest expense
Other income (expenses), net
Equity in loss of affiliates
Loss before income tax expense
Income tax benefit (expense)
Net loss attributable to I-MAB
Net loss attributable to ordinary shareholders
Net loss attributable to I-MAB
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Notes
2021
RMB
Year Ended December 31,
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
14
2.16
7
15
8
11
40,115
47,911
88,026
(46,432)
(249,665)
28,102
(221,563)
(27,237)
16,814
10,830
27,644
—
(1,212,958)
(899,943)
—
(2,071,307)
21,333
—
83,162
(367,883)
(2,334,695)
3,154
(2,331,541)
(2,331,541)
(904,901)
(815,766)
—
(1,969,467)
26,908
(9)
(126,587)
(437,465)
(2,506,620)
(697)
(2,507,317)
(2,507,317)
(810,646)
(453,017)
(162,574)
(1,398,593)
51,749
(722)
(38,109)
(80,019)
(1,465,694)
—
(1,465,694)
(1,465,694)
US$
(Note 2.5)
2,368
1,525
3,893
—
(114,177)
(63,806)
(22,898)
(196,988)
7,289
(102)
(5,368)
(11,270)
(206,439)
—
(206,439)
(206,439)
(2,331,541)
(2,507,317)
(1,465,694)
(206,439)
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of nil tax
Total comprehensive loss attributable to I-MAB
(135,717)
(2,467,258)
400,304
(2,107,013)
84,497
(1,381,197)
11,901
(194,538)
Net loss attributable to ordinary shareholders
Weighted-average number of ordinary shares used in calculating
(2,331,541)
(2,507,317)
(1,465,694)
(206,439)
net loss per share - basic
16 174,707,055 189,787,292 191,423,850
191,423,850
Weighted-average number of ordinary shares used in calculating
net loss per share - diluted
16 174,707,055 189,787,292 191,423,850
191,423,850
Net loss per share attributable to ordinary shareholders
—Basic
—Diluted
Net loss per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders
—Basic
—Diluted
16
16
(13.35)
(13.35)
(30.71)
(30.71)
(13.21)
(13.21)
(30.38)
(30.38)
(7.66)
(7.66)
(17.62)
(17.62)
(1.08)
(1.08)
(2.48)
(2.48)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-6
Table of Contents
I-MAB
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
Ordinary share
(Note 12)
(US$0.0001 par value)
Number of
shares
Treasury
Amount
stock
RMB RMB
paid-in
capital
RMB
Accumulated
other
Additional
comprehensive
Balance as of December 31, 2020
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Net loss
Share-based compensation of I-Mab
Exercise of stock options
Issuance of ordinary shares for restricted
164,888,519
—
—
—
8,227,843
share units (Note 13)
Exercise of warrants
Ordinary
shares
surrendered by
a
5,369,140
5,341,267
114
—
—
—
5
4
3
(16)
—
— 7,701,116
—
—
—
—
—
—
608,609
51,310
—
—
—
8,547
672,661
—
shareholder
Proportionate
share
share-based
compensation expenses recorded in an
equity method affiliate (Note 8 (a))
of
Balance as of December 31, 2021
income
(loss)
RMB
(50,793)
(135,717)
—
—
—
—
—
—
Accumulated
deficit
RMB
(2,023,292)
—
(2,331,541)
—
—
—
—
—
Total
shareholders’
equity
RMB
5,627,145
(135,717)
(2,331,541)
608,609
51,315
8,551
672,664
—
—
183,826,753
—
126
—
58,534
— 9,100,777
—
(186,510)
—
(4,354,833)
58,534
4,559,560
F-7
Table of Contents
I-MAB
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity (Continued)
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
Ordinary share
(Note 12)
(US$0.0001 par value)
Number of
shares
Amount
RMB
183,826,753
126
—
—
—
6,845,888
—
—
—
5
1,859,819
1
Balance as of December
31, 2021
Foreign
currency
translation adjustments
Net loss
Share-based compensation
of I-Mab
Exercise of stock options
of
Issuance
shares
for
share units (Note 13)
ordinary
restricted
Treasury stock
Number of
shares
Amount
RMB
Additional
paid-in
capital
RMB
Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income
(loss)
RMB
Accumulated
deficit
RMB
Total
shareholders’
equity
RMB
—
—
—
—
—
—
— 9,100,777
(186,510)
(4,354,833)
4,559,560
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
400,304
—
—
(2,507,317)
400,304
(2,507,317)
357,148
44,645
(1)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
357,148
44,650
—
(21,249)
—
— (1,652,541)
(21,249)
of
shares
share of
Repurchase
(Note 12)
Proportionate
share-based
compensation expenses
recorded in an equity
method affiliate (Note 8
(a))
—
—
—
—
76,806
—
—
76,806
Balance as of December
31, 2022
192,532,460
132
(1,652,541)
(21,249) 9,579,375
213,794
(6,862,150)
2,909,902
F-8
Table of Contents
I-MAB
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity (Continued)
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
Ordinary share
(Note 12)
(US$0.0001 par value)
Number of
shares
Amount
RMB
Treasury stock
Number of
shares
Amount
RMB
Additional
paid-in
capital
RMB
Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income
(loss)
RMB
Accumulated
deficit
RMB
Total
shareholders’
equity
RMB
192,532,460
132
(1,652,541)
(21,249) 9,579,375
213,794
(6,862,150)
2,909,902
—
—
—
280,568
—
—
—
—
—
126,874
—
847
193,002
1,941
—
—
—
—
—
—
84,497
—
—
(1,465,694)
84,497
(1,465,694)
1,260,701
1
3,722,394
24,859
(24,860)
—
— (10,656,794)
(61,260)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
193,002
2,788
—
(61,260)
Balance as of December
31, 2022
Foreign
currency
translation adjustments
Net loss
Share-based
compensation of I-Mab
Exercise of stock options
ordinary
Issuance
of
restricted
for
shares
share units (Note 13)
Repurchase of
shares
(Note 12)
Proportionate share of
share-based
compensation expenses
recorded in an equity
method affiliate (Note
8 (a))
Balance as of December
—
—
—
—
54,921
—
—
54,921
31, 2023
194,073,729
133
(8,460,067)
(56,803) 9,804,379
298,291
(8,327,844)
1,718,156
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-9
Table of Contents
I-MAB
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
Cash flows from operating activities
Net loss
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities
Depreciation of property, equipment and software
Amortization of intangible assets
Impairment of goodwill
Loss on disposal of property, equipment and operating lease right-of-use asset
Fair value change of put right liabilities
Equity in loss of affiliates
Share-based compensation
Amortization of right-of use assets and interest of lease liabilities
Recognition of deferred cost for planned dual listing
Loss on deconsolidation of a subsidiary
Fair value change of short-term and other investments
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
Accounts receivable
Contract assets
Prepayments and other receivables
Inventories
Accruals and other payables
Contract liabilities
Other non-current liabilities
Deferred subsidy income
Lease liabilities
Net cash used in operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of property, equipment and software
Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment
Capital injection in an affiliate
Proceeds from disposal of short-term and other investments
Purchase of short-term and other investments
Cash received from deconsolidation of a subsidiary
Net cash generated from (used in) investing activities
2021
RMB
Year Ended December 31,
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
US$
(Note 2.5)
(2,331,541)
(2,507,317)
(1,465,694)
(206,439)
13,776
778
—
288
(16,628)
367,883
608,609
19,582
—
—
(30,360)
25,340
778
—
117
(34,260)
437,465
357,148
37,698
14,613
—
13,549
23,949
778
162,574
488
7,888
80,019
193,002
27,986
—
7,905
(26,461)
97,417
(26,389)
(5,155)
(27,237)
152,101
224,000
5,959
(7,509)
(18,667)
(973,093)
33,081
253,780
109,226
27,237
109,863
52,555
2,029
—
(35,707)
(1,102,805)
—
—
35,863
—
(342,715)
17,769
(6,212)
—
(22,089)
(1,304,950)
(29,932)
(45,830)
(11,351)
—
(6,000)
9,482,040
(10,173,314)
—
(727,206)
26
—
7,911,518
(7,407,332)
—
458,382
19
(6,000)
1,005,249
(885,580)
178
102,515
3,373
110
22,898
69
1,111
11,270
27,184
3,942
—
1,113
(3,727)
—
—
5,051
—
(48,270)
2,503
(875)
—
(3,111)
(183,798)
(1,599)
3
(845)
141,586
(124,731)
25
14,439
F-10
Table of Contents
I-MAB
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Continued)
For the Years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
Year Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
Cash flows from financing activities
Payments of the issuance cost in relation to private placement
Payments of cost in relation to planned dual listing
Proceeds from exercise of warrants
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
Proceeds from issuance of ordinary shares for restricted share units
Proceeds from bank borrowings
Repayment of bank borrowings
Payment for stock repurchase
Prepayment for stock repurchase
(128,786)
(9,820)
672,664
51,315
8,551
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
44,650
—
18,956
—
(21,249)
—
Net cash generated from financing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of year
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of the year
42,357
593,924
389,203
(128,771)
(1,235,146)
(212,863)
4,758,778 3,523,632
3,523,632 3,310,769
—
—
—
2,788
—
118,853
(48,926)
(61,260)
(3,883)
7,572
84,452
(1,110,411)
3,310,769
2,200,358
US$
(Note 2.5)
—
—
—
393
—
16,740
(6,892)
(8,628)
(547)
1,066
11,896
(156,397)
466,311
309,914
F-11
Table of Contents
I-MAB
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Continued)
For the Years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
Additional ASC 842 supplemental disclosures
Cash paid for fixed operating lease costs included in the measurement of lease
obligations in operating activities
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for operating lease obligations
Other supplemental cash flow disclosures
Income tax paid
Interest paid
Non-cash activities
Payables for purchase of property, equipment and software
Accrued planned dual listing costs payable
Recognition of put right liabilities
Year Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
US$
(Note 2.5)
18,667
118,436
35,707
9,888
22,089
11,108
3,111
1,565
9,077
—
6,679
4,793
—
697
—
7,124
—
17,729
—
704
1,226
—
—
—
99
173
—
—
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-12
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
1. PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES AND ORGANIZATION
I-Mab (the “Company”) was incorporated in the Cayman Islands on June 30, 2016 as an exempted company with limited liability under
the Companies Act of the Cayman Islands. On January 17, 2020, the Company became listed on the Nasdaq Global Market in the United
States. The Company and its subsidiaries (together the “Group”) are principally engaged in discovering and developing transformational
biologics in the fields of immuno-oncology and immuno-inflammation diseases in the People’s Republic of China (the “PRC”) and other
countries and regions.
On February 6, 2024, the Group entered into definitive agreements with I-Mab Hangzhou and a group of China-based investors. Pursuant
to the definitive agreements, the Group will transfer 100% of the outstanding equity interest in I-Mab Shanghai, a wholly owned
subsidiary of the Company that operates the Company’s business in China to I-Mab Hangzhou for an aggregate consideration of the
RMB equivalent of up to US$80 million, contingent on the I-Mab Hangzhou’s achievement of certain future regulatory and sales-based
milestone events. Given the nature of the transaction, it is considered as a non-adjusting subsequent event and its impact is therefore not
considered as of December 31, 2023. Details of the transaction please refer to Note 22.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s principal subsidiaries are as follows:
Subsidiaries
I-Mab Biopharma Hong Kong
Hong
(“I-Mab
Limited
Kong”)
Place of
incorporation
Date of
incorporation or
acquisition
Percentage
of direct
or indirect
ownership
by the
Company
Principal activities
Hong Kong
July 8, 2016
100 %
Investment holding
I-Mab Biopharma Co., Ltd. (“I-
Mab Shanghai”)
I-Mab Bio-tech (Tianjin) Co.,
Ltd. (“I-Mab Tianjin”)
I-Mab Biopharma US Ltd.
PRC
August 24, 2016
100 % Research and development of innovative medicines
PRC
U.S.
July 15, 2017
February 28, 2018
100 % Research and development of innovative medicines
100 % Research and development of innovative medicines
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
2.1 Basis of presentation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Group have been prepared in accordance with the accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).
Significant accounting policies followed by the Group in the preparation of the accompanying consolidated financial statements are
summarized below.
F-13
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
2.2 Basis of consolidation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements reflect the accounts of the Company and all of its subsidiaries in which a
controlling interest is maintained. All inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
The Group consolidates entities in which it has a controlling financial interest based on either the variable interest entity (VIE) or voting
interest model. The Group is required to first apply the VIE model to determine whether it holds a variable interest in an entity, and if so,
whether the entity is a VIE. If the Group determines it does not hold a variable interest in a VIE, it then applies the voting interest model.
Under the voting interest model, the Group consolidates an entity when it holds a majority voting interest in an entity.
The Company accounts for investments in which it has significant influence but not a controlling financial interest using the equity
method of accounting (see Note 8).
VIE Model
An entity is considered to be a VIE if any of the following conditions exist: (a) the total equity investment at risk is not sufficient to
permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support, (b) the holders of the equity investment at
risk, as a group, lack either the direct or indirect ability through voting rights or similar rights to make decisions that have a significant
effect on the success of the entity or the obligation to absorb the entity’s expected losses or right to receive the entity’s expected residual
returns, or (c) the voting rights of some equity investors are disproportionate to their obligation to absorb losses of the entity, their rights
to receive returns from an entity, or both and substantially all of the entity’s activities either involve or are conducted on behalf of an
investor with disproportionately few voting rights.
Under the VIE model, limited partnerships are considered VIE unless the limited partners hold substantive kick-out or participating
rights over the general partner. The Group consolidates entities that are VIEs when the Group determines it is the primary beneficiary.
Generally, the primary beneficiary of a VIE is a reporting entity that has (a) the power to direct the activities that most significantly affect
the VIE’s economic performance, and (b) the obligation to absorb losses of, or the right to receive benefits from, the VIE that could
potentially be significant to the VIE.
As of December 31, 2023, the Group determined that the one entity subject to the consolidation guidance is a VIE for which the Group is
not the primary beneficiary.
F-14
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
2.3 Use of estimates
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of
the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Estimates are used
when accounting for amounts recorded in connection with acquisitions, including initial fair value determinations of assets and liabilities
and other intangible assets as well as subsequent fair value measurements. Additionally, estimates are used in determining items such as
fair value measurements of short-term investments and put right liabilities, impairment of other receivables, long-lived assets, intangible
assets and goodwill, useful lives of property, equipment and software, recognition of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities, accrued
research and development expenses, cost-to-cost measure of progress for over time performance obligations, variable consideration in
collaboration revenue arrangements, valuation of share-based compensation arrangements, deferred tax assets valuation allowances and
provision for ongoing litigation. Management bases the estimates on historical experience, known trends and various other assumptions
that are believed to be reasonable, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and
liabilities. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
2.4 Fair value measurements
Financial assets and liabilities of the Group primarily comprise of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, short-term investments,
other receivables, short-term borrowings, accruals and other payables, contract liabilities, put right liabilities and other non-current
liabilities. As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, except for short-term investments and put right liabilities, the carrying values of these
financial assets and liabilities approximated their fair values because of their generally short maturities. The Group reports short-term
investments and put right liabilities at fair value at each balance sheet date and changes in fair value are reflected in the consolidated
statements of comprehensive loss.
The Group measures its financial assets and liabilities using inputs from the following three levels of the fair value hierarchy. The three
levels are as follows:
Level 1 inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets that the management has the ability to access at the
measurement date.
F-15
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
2.4 Fair value measurements (continued)
Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are
not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset (i.e., interest rates, yield curves, etc.), and inputs that are
derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means (market corroborated inputs).
Level 3 includes unobservable inputs that reflect the management’s assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would
use in pricing the asset. The management develops these inputs based on the best information available, including the own data.
Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis
The Group measures its short-term investments and put right liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis. As the Group’s short-term
investments and put right liabilities are not traded in an active market with readily observable prices, the Group uses significant
unobservable inputs to measure the fair value of short-term investments and put right liabilities. These instruments are categorized in the
Level 3 valuation hierarchy based on the significance of unobservable factors in the overall fair value measurement.
The following table summarizes the Group’s financial assets and liabilities measured and recorded at fair value on a recurring basis as of
December 31, 2022 and 2023:
Assets:
Short-term investments
Liabilities
Put right liabilities
Assets:
Short-term investments
Liabilities
Put right liabilities
As of December 31, 2022
Active market Observable input
(Level 1)
RMB
(Level 2)
RMB
Non-
observable input
(Level 3)
RMB
Total
RMB
—
—
—
—
235,429 235,429
88,687
88,687
As of December 31, 2023
Active market Observable input
(Level 1)
RMB
(Level 2)
RMB
Non-
observable input
(Level 3)
RMB
Total
RMB
—
—
—
—
143,221
143,221
98,110
98,110
F-16
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
2.4 Fair value measurements (continued)
The roll forward of major Level 3 financial assets and financial liabilities are as follows:
Fair value of Level 3 financial assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2021
Purchase of short-term and other investments
Disposal of short-term and other investments
Recognition of put right liabilities
Fair value changes
Currency translation differences
Fair value of Level 3 financial assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2022
Purchase of short-term investments
Disposal of short-term investments
Fair value changes
Currency translation differences
Fair value of Level 3 financial assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2023
Short-term
investments
Put right
liabilities
753,164
7,407,332
(7,911,518)
—
(13,549)
—
235,429
885,580
(1,005,249)
26,461
1,000
143,221
96,911
—
—
17,729
(34,260)
8,307
88,687
—
—
7,888
1,535
98,110
See Note 8 for additional information about Level 3 put right liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis for the year ended
December 31, 2022 and 2023.
2.5 Foreign currency translation
The Group uses Chinese Renminbi (“RMB”) as its reporting currency. The United States Dollar (“US$”) is the functional currency of the
Group’s entities incorporated in the Cayman Islands, the United States of America (“U.S.”) and Hong Kong, and the RMB is the
functional currency of the Company’s PRC subsidiaries.
Transactions denominated in other than the functional currencies are translated into the functional currency of the entity at the exchange
rates prevailing on the transaction dates. Assets and liabilities denominated in other than the functional currencies are translated at the
balance sheet date exchange rate. The resulting exchange differences are recorded in the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.
The consolidated financial statements of the Group are translated from the functional currency to the reporting currency, RMB. Assets
and liabilities of the subsidiaries are translated into RMB using the exchange rate in effect at each balance sheet date. Income and
expenses are translated at the average exchange rates prevailing for the year. Foreign currency translation adjustments arising from these
are reflected in the accumulated other comprehensive loss. The exchange rates used for translation on December 31, 2022 and 2023 were
US$1.00 = RMB6.9646 and RMB7.0827 respectively, representing the index rates stipulated by the People’s Bank of China.
Translations of balances in the consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of comprehensive loss, consolidated statements of
changes in shareholders’ equity and consolidated statements of cash flows from RMB into US$ as of and for the year ended December
31, 2023 are solely for the convenience of the readers and were calculated at the rate of US$1.00=RMB7.0999, representing the noon
buying rate in The City of New York for cable transfers of RMB as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New
York on December 29, 2023. No representation is made that the RMB amounts could have been, or could be, converted, realized or
settled into US$ at that rate on December 31, 2023, or at any other rate. The US$ convenience translation is not required under U.S.
GAAP and all US$ convenience translation amounts in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are unaudited.
F-17
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
2.6 Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and bank deposits, which are unrestricted as to withdrawal and use. The Group
considers all highly liquid investments with an original maturity date of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash
equivalents.
2.7 Restricted cash
Restricted cash consists of the guarantee deposits held in a designated bank account as security deposits under bank borrowing, bank
notes agreements and other bank financing arrangement. Such restricted cash will be released when the Group repays the related bank
borrowings, bank notes and other bank financing. The Group has presented restricted cash separately from cash and cash equivalents in
the consolidated balance sheets.
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash as reported in the consolidated statement of cash flows are presented separately on the
consolidated balance sheet as follows:
Cash and cash equivalents
Short-term restricted cash
Long-term restricted cash
Total
2.8 Short-term investments
As of December 31,
2022
RMB
3,214,005
96,764
—
3,310,769
2023
RMB
2,141,445
—
58,913
2,200,358
Short-term investments represent the investments issued by commercial banks with a variable interest rate indexed to the performance of
underlying assets within one year, or the fixed term deposits held in commercial banks with a fixed interest rate over three months and
within one year. These investments are stated at fair value. Changes in the fair value are reflected in the consolidated statements of
comprehensive loss.
2.9 Property, equipment and software
Property, equipment and software are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization is
computed using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives, taking into account of any estimated residual value:
Laboratory equipment
Software
Office furniture and equipment
Delivery equipment
Leasehold improvements
3 to 10 years
1 to 5 years
5 years
4 years
Lesser of useful life or lease term
The Group recognizes the gain or loss on the disposal of property, equipment and software in the consolidated statements of
comprehensive loss.
F-18
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
2.10 Intangible assets
Intangible assets acquired in a business combination that are used in research and development activities, or in-process research and
development (IPR&D) intangible assets, are considered indefinite lived until the completion or abandonment of the associated research
and development efforts. During the period that those assets are considered indefinite lived, they are not amortized but are tested for
impairment annually and more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the asset is
impaired. If after assessing the totality of events and circumstances and their potential effect on significant inputs to the fair value
determination the Group determines that it is not more likely than not that the indefinite-lived intangible is impaired, then the entity shall
calculate the fair value of the intangible asset and perform the quantitative impairment test by comparing the fair value of the asset with
its carrying amount. If the carrying amount exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. For
IPR&D assets, the impairment loss is recognized in research and development expenses in the consolidated statements of comprehensive
loss.
Intangible assets with finite useful lives are amortized over their useful lives. The useful life of an intangible asset is the period over
which the asset is expected to contribute directly or indirectly to the future cash flows of the Group. The Group uses the straight-line
amortization method when the economic benefits of the intangible assets are consumed or otherwise used up cannot be reliably
determined. In particular, the Group amortizes the contract related intangible assets with finite useful lives over 10 to 20 years on a
straight-line basis in accordance with the economic life of the out-licensed patent. Intangible assets subject to amortization are reviewed
for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an intangible asset may not be
recoverable. If circumstances require an intangible asset be tested for possible impairment, the Group first compares undiscounted cash
flows expected to be generated by that asset to its carrying amount. If the carrying amount is not recoverable on an undiscounted cash
flow basis, an impairment is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount exceeds its fair value. For intangible assets with finite
useful life, the impairment loss is recognized in cost of revenues in the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.
2.11 Impairment of long-lived assets
Long-lived assets, such as property, plant, and software, and intangible assets subject to amortization, are reviewed for impairment
whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If circumstances
require a long-lived asset or asset group be tested for possible impairment, the Company first compares undiscounted cash flows
expected to be generated by that asset or asset group to its carrying amount. If the carrying amount of the long-lived asset or asset group
is not recoverable on an undiscounted cash flow basis, an impairment is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount exceeds its fair
value. Fair value is determined through various valuation techniques including discounted cash flow models, quoted market values and
third-party independent appraisals, as considered necessary. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, there was no
impairment of the value of the Group’s long-lived assets.
2.12 Goodwill
Goodwill is an asset representing the future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not
individually identified and separately recognized. The Group allocates the cost of an acquired entity to the assets acquired and liabilities
assumed based on their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. The excess of the purchase price for acquisitions over the fair
value of the net assets acquired, including other intangible assets, is recorded as goodwill. Goodwill is not amortized, but impairment of
goodwill is tested on at least an annual basis or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the
reporting unit exceeds its fair value.
F-19
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
2.12 Goodwill (continued)
The Group first assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the Group’s reporting unit
is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. The qualitative assessment includes the Group’s evaluation of relevant events and
circumstances affecting the Group’s single reporting unit, including macroeconomic, industry, market conditions and the Group’s overall
financial performance. If qualitative factors indicate that it is more likely than not that the Group’s reporting unit’s fair value is less than
its carrying amount, then the Group will perform the quantitative impairment test by comparing the reporting unit’s carrying amount,
including goodwill, to its fair value. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss will be
recognized in an amount equal to that excess. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the Group recognized goodwill
impairment with amount of nil, nil and RMB 162,574, respectively (Note 7).
2.13 Long-term investments
The Group’s long-term investments include equity investments in an affiliate in which it does not have a controlling financial interest,
but has the ability to exercise significant influence over the operating and financial policies of the investee. The investment is accounted
for using the equity method of accounting in accordance with ASC topic 323, Investments—Equity Method and Joint Ventures (“ASC
323”). Under the equity method, the Group initially records its investments at fair value. The Group subsequently adjusts the carrying
amount of the investment to recognize the Group’s proportionate share of the equity investee’s net income or loss after the date of
investment. When the liquidation rights and priorities as defined by an equity investment agreement differ from what is reflected by the
underlying percentage ownership interests, applying the percentage ownership interest to U.S. GAAP net income in order to determine
earnings or losses does not accurately represent the income allocation and cash flow distributions that will ultimately be received by the
investors. As such, for this type of investments, the Group uses the Hypothetical Liquidation at Book Value (“HLBV”) method for
allocating earnings or losses of the equity method investee. The HLBV method is considered as a balance sheet approach. Specifically, a
calculation is prepared at each balance sheet date to determine the amount that the Group would receive if an equity investment entity
were to liquidate all of its assets (as valued in accordance with U.S. GAAP) and distribute that cash to the investors based on the
contractually defined liquidation priorities. The difference between the calculated liquidation distribution amounts at the beginning and
the end of the reporting period, after adjusting for capital contributions and distributions, is the Group’s share of the earnings or losses
from the equity investment for the period.
As it relates to the share-based compensation awarded by an equity method investee to its own employees, the Group recognizes its
proportionate share of the compensation expense over the vesting period, included in the equity in loss of affiliate in the consolidated
statements of comprehensive loss. As it relates to the share-based compensation awarded by the Group to the equity method investee
employees that are based on the Group’s stock, when the other investors do not provide proportionate value to the investee or the Group
does not receive any consideration, the Group expenses the entire cost associated with the award in the same period the costs are
recognized by the investee, to the extent that the Group’s claim on the investee’s book value has not been increased. The expenses
recognized by the Group is included in the equity in loss of affiliate in the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The Group
discontinues applying the equity method if the carrying amount of the investment is reduced to zero.
The Group evaluates the equity method investment for impairment under ASC 323. An impairment loss on the equity method
investments is recognized in losses when the decline in value is determined to be other-than-temporary. No impairment charge was
recognized for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023.
2.14 Revenue recognition
The Group adopted Accounting Standard Codification (“ASC”) 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (“ASC 606”)
for all periods presented. Consistent with the criteria of Topic 606, the Group recognizes revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods
or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to receive in exchange for those goods or
services.
F-20
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
2.14 Revenue recognition (continued)
Under ASC 606, an entity recognizes revenue when its customer obtains control of promised goods or services, in an amount that reflects
the consideration that the entity expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. An the entity performs the following five
steps to account for the arrangements that an entity determines are within the scope of ASC 606: (i) identify the contract(s) with a
customer; (ii) identify the performance obligations in the contract; (iii) determine the transaction price, including variable consideration,
if any; (iv) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and (v) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity
satisfies a performance obligation.
Once a contract is determined to be within the scope of ASC 606 at contract inception, the Group audits the contract to determine which
performance obligations it must deliver and which of these performance obligations are distinct. The Group recognizes as revenue the
amount of the transaction price that is allocated to each performance obligation when that performance obligation is satisfied or as it is
satisfied.
Collaboration revenue
At contract inception, we analyze its collaboration arrangements to assess whether they are within the scope of ASC 808, Collaborative
Arrangements (“ASC 808”) to determine whether such arrangements involve joint operating activities performed by parties that are both
active participants in the activities and exposed to significant risks and rewards dependent on the commercial success of such activities.
For collaboration arrangements within the scope of ASC 808 that contain multiple elements, we first determine if the collaboration is
deemed to be within the scope of ASC 808. For any units of account that are reflective of a vendor-customer relationship those units of
account are accounted for within the scope of ASC 606. For any units of account that are not accounted for under ASC 606 and therefore
accounted for pursuant to ASC 808, an appropriate recognition method is determined and applied consistently.
The Group’s collaborative arrangements may contain more than one unit of account, or performance obligation, such as grant of licenses
of intellectual property rights, promises to provide research and development services and other deliverables. The collaborative
arrangements do not include a right of return for any deliverable. When multiple units of account or performance obligations are
identified within the arrangements, the Group must develop assumptions that require judgment to determine the stand-alone selling price
for each performance obligation identified in the contract. In developing the stand-alone selling price for a performance obligation, the
Group considers competitor pricing for a similar or identical product, market awareness of and perception of the product, expected
product life and current market trends. In general, the consideration allocated to each performance obligation is recognized when the
respective obligation is satisfied either by delivering a good or providing a service, limited to the consideration that is not constrained.
Licenses of Intellectual Property:Upfront non-refundable payments for licensing the Group’s intellectual property are evaluated to
determine if the license is distinct from the other performance obligations identified in the arrangement. For the license that is determined
to be distinct, the Group recognizes revenues in the amount of non-refundable, up-front fees allocated to the license at a point in time,
upon which the license is transferred to the licensee and the licensee is able to use and benefit from the license.
Research and Development Services: The portion of the transaction price allocated to research and development services performance
obligations is deferred and recognized as revenue over time as delivery or performance of such services provided to the Group’s
customers occurs.
F-21
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
2.14 Revenue recognition (continued)
Collaboration revenue (continued)
Milestone Payments: At the inception of each arrangement that includes development, commercialization, and regulatory milestone
payments, the Group evaluates whether the milestones are considered probable of being reached and to the extent that a significant
reversal of cumulative revenue would not occur in future periods, estimates the amount to be included in the transaction price using the
most likely amount method. The transaction price is then allocated to each performance obligation on a relative stand-alone selling price
basis, for which the Group recognizes revenue as or when the performance obligations under the contract are satisfied. At the end of each
subsequent reporting period, the Group re-evaluates the probability of achieving such development milestones and any related constraint,
and if necessary, adjust the estimate of the overall transaction price. Any resulting adjustment is recorded on a cumulative catch-up basis,
which would affect the Group’s reported revenues and earnings in the period of the adjustment.
Royalties: For arrangements that include sales-based royalties, including milestone payments based on the level of sales, and the license
is deemed to be the predominant item to which the sales-based royalties or milestone payments relate, the Group recognizes revenue at
the later of (i) when the related sales occur, or (ii) when the performance obligation to which some or all of the royalty has been allocated
has been satisfied (or partially satisfied).
Supply of investigational products
Revenue from supply of investigational products is recognized when there is a transfer of control from the Group to the customer. The
Group determines transfer of control based on when the product is delivered, and title passed to the customer. Sales are generally made
with a limited right of return under certain conditions. Revenues are recorded net of provisions for sales discounts and returns.
Contract assets and liabilities
Contract assets primarily represent revenue earnings over time that are not yet billable based on the terms of the contracts. The Group
does not have impairment losses associated with contracts with customers for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023.
Contract liabilities consist of fees invoiced or paid by the Group’s customers for which the associated performance obligations have not
been satisfied and revenue has not been recognized based on the Group’s revenue recognition criteria described above.
Contract assets and contract liabilities are reported in a net position on an individual contract basis at the end of each reporting period.
Contract assets are classified as current in the consolidated balance sheet when the Group expects to complete the related performance
obligations and invoice the customers within one year of the balance sheet date, and as long-term when the Group expects to complete
the related performance obligations and invoice the customers more than one year out from the balance sheet date. Contract liabilities are
classified as current in the consolidated balance sheet when the revenue recognition associated with the related customer payments and
invoicing is expected to occur within one year of the balance sheet date and as long-term when the revenue recognition associated with
the related customer payments and invoicing is expected to occur in more than one year from the balance sheet date.
Cost-to-cost measure of progress for over time performance obligations
Under the Group’s certain licensing and collaboration arrangement entered into with a business partner, the Group recognized revenue
using the cost-to-cost measure of progress for its over time performance obligations as this recognition best depicts the transfer of
benefits to its business partner as costs are incurred under the licensing and collaboration arrangement. Under the cost-to-cost measure of
progress method, the extent of progress towards completion is measured based on the ratio of costs incurred to-date to the total estimated
costs for completion of the performance obligations. The Group applied significant judgment in estimating the total estimated costs for
completion of performance obligations under such licensing and collaboration arrangement.
F-22
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
2.15 Value-added-tax (“VAT”) recoverable and surcharges
Value added tax recoverable represent amounts paid by the Group for purchases. The surcharges (i.e., Urban construction and
maintenance tax, educational surtax, local educational surtax), vary from 6% to 12% of the value-added-tax depending on the tax-
payer’s location. The deductible input VAT balance is included in the prepayments and other receivables in the consolidated balance
sheets, and VAT payable balance is recorded in the accruals and other payables in the consolidated balance sheets.
2.16 Research and development expenses
Elements of research and development expenses primarily include (1) payroll and other related expenses of personnel engaged in
research and development activities, (2) in-licensed patent rights fee of exclusive development rights of drugs granted to the Group,
(3) expenses related to preclinical testing of the Group’s technologies under development and clinical trials such as payments to contract
research organizations (“CRO”), investigators and clinical trial sites that conduct the clinical studies, (4) expenses to develop the product
candidates, including raw materials and supplies, product testing, depreciation, and facility related expenses, and (5) other research and
development expenses. Research and development expenses are charged to expenses as incurred when these expenditures are used for
the Group’s research and development activities and have no alternative future uses.
The Group applied significant judgment in estimating the progress of its research and development activities and completion of or
likelihood of achieving milestone events per underlying agreements when estimating the research and development costs to be accrued at
each reporting period end. The process of estimating its research and development expenses involves reviewing open contracts and
purchase orders, communicating with personnel to identify services that have been performed on its behalf and estimating the level of
service performed and the associated costs incurred for the services when the Group has not yet been invoiced or otherwise notified of
the actual costs.
The Group has acquired rights to develop and commercialize product candidates. Upfront payments that relate to the acquisition of a new
drug compound, as well as pre-commercial milestone payments, are immediately expensed as acquired in-process research and
development in the period in which they are incurred, provided that the new drug compound does not also include processes or activities
that would constitute a “business” as defined under U.S. GAAP, the drug has not achieved regulatory approval for marketing and, absent
obtaining such approval, has no established alternative future use. Milestone payments made to third parties subsequent to regulatory
approval are capitalized as intangible assets and amortized over the estimated remaining useful life of the related product. All
development expenditures are recognized in profit or loss when incurred, as long as the conditions enabling capitalization of
development expenses as an asset have not yet been met.
2.17 Leases
In accordance with ASC 842 adopted on January 1, 2019, the Group determines if an arrangement is a lease at inception. Operating
leases are included in operating lease right-of-use (“ROU”) assets, operating lease liability, and operating lease liability, non-current in
the Group’s consolidated balance sheets. The Group does not have any finance leases since the adoption date.
ROU assets represent the Group’s right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the Group’s obligation
to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at commencement date based
on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. When determining the lease term, the Group includes options to extend or
terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that it will exercise that option, if any. As the Group’s leases do not provide an implicit
rate, the Group uses its incremental borrowing rate, which it calculates based on the credit quality of the Group and by comparing
interest rates available in the market for similar borrowings, and adjusting this amount based on the impact of collateral over the term of
each lease.
F-23
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
2.17 Leases (continued)
The Group has elected to adopt the following lease policies in conjunction with the adoption of ASU 2016-02: (i)elect for each lease not
to separate non-lease components from lease components and instead to account for each separate lease component and the non-lease
components associated with that lease component as a single lease component; (ii) for leases that have lease terms of 12 months or less
and does not include a purchase option that is reasonably certain to exercise, the Group elected not to apply ASC 842 recognition
requirements; and (iii) the Group elected to apply the package of practical expedients for existing arrangements entered into prior to
January 1, 2019 to not reassess (a) whether an arrangement is or contains a lease, (b) the lease classification applied to existing leases,
and (c) initial direct costs.
2.18 Government subsidies
Government subsidies primarily consist of financial subsidies received from provincial and local governments for operating a business in
their jurisdictions and compliance with specific policies promoted by the governments. The Group’s PRC based subsidiaries received
government subsidies from certain local governments. The Group’s government subsidies consist of specific subsidies and other
subsidies. Specific subsidies are subsidies that the local government has set certain conditions for the subsidies. Other subsidies are the
subsidies that the local government has not set any conditions and are not tied to future trends or performance of the Group, receipt of
such subsidy income is not contingent upon any further actions or performance of the Group and the amounts do not have to be refunded
under any circumstances. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, no specific subsidies were received by the Group.
Other subsidies of RMB9,216, RMB25,470 and RMB5,354 for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively, are
recognized as other income upon receipt as further performance by the Group is not required.
2.19 Comprehensive loss
Comprehensive loss is defined as the changes in equity of the Group during a period from transactions and other events and
circumstances excluding transactions resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Among other disclosures, ASC
220, Comprehensive Income, requires that all items that are required to be recognized under current accounting standards as components
of comprehensive loss be reported in a financial statement that is displayed with the same prominence as other financial statements. For
each of the periods presented, the Group’s comprehensive loss includes net loss and foreign currency translation adjustments, which are
presented in the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.
2.20 Share-based compensation
The Group grants restricted shares and stock options to eligible employees and accounts for share-based compensation in accordance
with ASC 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation.
Employees’ share-based compensation awards, if equity-classified, are measured at the grant date fair value of the awards and are
recognized as expenses over the requisite period of the award, which is generally the vesting term of share-based payment awards.
A change in any of the terms or conditions of share-based awards is accounted for as a modification of the awards. The Group calculates
incremental compensation expense of a modification as the excess of the fair value of the modified awards over the fair value of the
original awards immediately before its terms are modified at the modification date. For vested awards, the Group recognizes incremental
compensation cost in the period when the modification occurs. For awards not being fully vested, the Group recognizes the sum of the
incremental compensation expense and the remaining unrecognized compensation expense for the original awards over the remaining
requisite service period after modification.
F-24
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
2.20 Share-based compensation (continued)
Share-based compensation in relation to the restricted shares is measured based on the fair market value of the Group’s ordinary shares at
the grant date of the award. Prior to the listing, estimation of the fair value of the Group’s ordinary shares involves significant
assumptions that might not be observable in the market, and a number of complex and subjective variables, including discount rate, and
subjective judgments regarding the Group’s projected financial and operating results, its unique business risks, the liquidity of its
ordinary shares and its operating history and prospects at the time the grants are made. Share-based compensation in relation to the share
options is estimated using the Binominal Option Pricing Model. The determination of the fair value of share options is affected by the
share price of the Group’s ordinary shares as well as the assumptions regarding a number of complex and subjective variables, including
the expected share price volatility, risk-free interest rate, exercise multiple and expected dividend yield. In addition, the forfeiture rate is
estimated based on an analysis of the Group’s actual forfeitures and the appropriateness of the forfeiture rate will continue to be
evaluated based on the actual forfeiture experience, analysis of employee turnover and other factors. The fair value of these awards was
determined with the assistance from an independent third-party valuation firm.
2.21 Income taxes
The Group accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method. Under the asset and liability method, deferred tax assets and
liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of
existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and
liabilities are measured using the enacted tax rates that 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 income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is recorded if it is more likely than not that some portion
or all of the deferred income tax assets will not be utilized in the foreseeable future.
The Group evaluates its uncertain tax positions using the provisions of ASC 740-10, Income Taxes, which prescribes a recognition
threshold that a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the financial statements. The Group recognizes in the
financial statements the benefit of a tax position which is ‘‘more likely than not’’ to be sustained under examination based solely on the
technical merits of the position assuming a review by tax authorities having all relevant information. Tax positions that meet the
recognition threshold are measured using a cumulative probability approach, at the largest amount of tax benefit that has a greater than
fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon settlement. It is the Group’s policy to recognize interest and penalties related to
unrecognized tax benefits, if any, as a component of income tax expense.
2.22 Borrowings
Borrowings are recognized initially at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. Borrowings are subsequently stated at amortized cost.
Any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption value is recognized as interest expense in the
consolidated statements of comprehensive loss over the period of the borrowings, using the effective interest method.
2.23 Business combination
The Group accounts for its business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC topic
805, Business Combinations (“ASC 805”). The acquisition method of accounting requires all of the following steps: (i) identifying the
acquirer, (ii) determining the acquisition date, (iii) recognizing and measuring the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and
any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree, and (iv) recognizing and measuring goodwill or a gain from a bargain purchase. The
consideration transferred in a business combination is measured as the aggregate of the fair values at the date of exchange of the assets
given, liabilities incurred, and equity instruments issued as well as the contingent considerations and all contractual contingencies as of
the acquisition date.
F-25
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
2.23 Business combination (continued)
The Group allocates the fair value of purchase consideration to the tangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed and intangible assets
acquired based on their estimated fair values. The excess of the fair value of purchase consideration over the fair values of these
identifiable assets and liabilities is recorded as goodwill. Such valuations require management to make significant estimates and
assumptions, especially with respect to intangible assets. Significant estimates in valuing certain intangible assets may include, but are
not limited to, future expected cash flows from acquired assets, timing and probability of success of clinical events and regulatory
approvals, and assumptions on useful lives of the patents and discount rates. Management’s estimates of fair value are based upon
assumptions believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may differ
from estimates. Additional information, such as that related to income tax and other contingencies, existing as of the acquisition date but
unknown to us may become known during the remainder of the measurement period, not to exceed one year from the acquisition date,
which may result in changes to the amounts and allocations recorded.
Acquisitions that do not meet the accounting definition of a business combination are accounted for as asset acquisitions. For
transactions determined to be asset acquisitions, the Group allocates the total cost of the acquisition, including transaction costs, to the
net assets acquired based on their relative fair values.
2.24 Segment information
In accordance with ASC 280, Segment Reporting, the Group’s chief operating decision maker, the Chief Executive Officer, reviews the
consolidated results when making decisions about allocating resources and assessing performance of the Group as a whole and hence, the
Group has only one reportable segment. The Group does not distinguish between markets or segments for the purpose of internal
reporting. As the Group’s long-lived assets are substantially located in and derived from the PRC, no geographical segments are
presented.
F-26
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
2. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
2.25 Loss per share
Basic loss per share is computed by dividing net loss attributable to ordinary shareholders by the weighted average number of ordinary
shares outstanding during the period. Diluted loss per share is calculated by dividing net loss attributable to ordinary shareholders by the
weighted average number of ordinary and dilutive ordinary equivalent shares outstanding during the period. Ordinary equivalent shares
consist of shares issuable upon the exercise of share options using the treasury stock method and shares issuable upon the issuance of
ordinary shares for restricted shares units using the treasury stock method. Ordinary equivalent shares are not included in the
denominator of the diluted loss per share calculation when inclusion of such shares would be anti-dilutive.
2.26 Adopted accounting pronouncements
In October 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-08, Business Combinations (Topic 805) — Accounting for Contract Assets and Contract
Liabilities from Contracts with Customers (“ASU 2021-08”). It requires issuers to apply ASC 606 Revenue from Contracts with
Customers to recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities from contracts with customers acquired in a business
combination. ASU 2021-08 is effective for the Company from January 1, 2023, with early adoption permitted. The Company adopted
this from January 1, 2023, which did not have a material impact on the Group’s consolidated financial statements.
2.27 Recent accounting pronouncements
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740). The standard requires disaggregation of the effective rate
reconciliation into standard categories, enhances disclosure of income taxes paid, and modifies other income tax-related disclosures. The
standard is effective for the Company from January 1, 2025, with early adoption permitted. The ASU is currently not expected to have a
material impact on the Group’s consolidated financial statements.
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07 Segment Reporting - Improving Reportable Segment Disclosures (Topic 280).
The standard requires disclosures to include significant segment expenses that are regularly provided to the chief operating decision
maker (CODM), a description of other segment items by reportable segment, and any additional measures of a segment’s profit or loss
used by the CODM when deciding how to allocate resources. The ASU also requires all annual disclosures currently required by Topic
280 to be included in interim periods. ASU 2023-07 is effective for the Company from January 1, 2024, with early adoption permitted
and requires retrospective application to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. The ASU is currently not expected to have
a material impact on the Group’s consolidated financial statements.
F-27
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
3. PREPAYMENTS AND OTHER RECEIVABLES
Prepayments:
– Prepayments to CRO vendors
– Prepayments for stock repurchase
– Prepayments for other services
– Prepayments to an affiliate (Note 19)
Value-added tax recoverable
Deposits
Other receivables
4. PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE
Property, equipment and software consist of the following:
Cost
Laboratory equipment
Leasehold improvement
Software
Office furniture and equipment
Delivery equipment
Total property, equipment and software
As of December 31,
2022
RMB
RMB
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
32,960
—
1,321
8,231
8,197
4,570
24,999
80,278
5,175
3,883
5,908
14,208
4,696
4,863
13,270
52,003
729
547
832
2,001
661
685
1,870
7,325
As of December 31,
2022
RMB
As of December 31,
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
RMB
52,989
37,375
14,506
11,171
165
54,377
33,646
12,018
9,967
—
116,206
110,008
7,659
4,739
1,693
1,403
—
15,494
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization
(61,583)
(73,497)
(10,352)
Net book value
Construction in progress
Total net book value of property, equipment and software
54,623
6,218
60,841
36,511
—
36,511
5,142
—
5,142
The total amounts charged to the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss for depreciation and amortization expenses amounted to
approximately RMB13.8 million and RMB25.3 million and RMB23.9 million (US$3.4 million), for the years ended December 31, 2021,
2022 and 2023, respectively.
F-28
Table of Contents
5. LEASES
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
As of December 31, 2023, the Company has operating leases recorded on its balance sheet for certain office spaces and facilities that
expire on various dates through 2031. When determining the lease term, the Group includes options to extend or terminate the lease
when it is reasonably certain that it will exercise that option, if any. All the Group’s leases qualify as operating leases.
Information related to operating leases as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 is as follows (in thousands, except for percentages and years).
Assets
Operating lease right-of-use assets
Liabilities
Operating lease liabilities, current
Operating lease liabilities, non-current
Weighted average remaining lease term (years)
Weighted average discount rate
As of December 31,
2022
RMB
RMB
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
63,125
46,400
6,535
23,961
32,069
2.9
21,890
23,099
3.4
3,083
3,253
3.4
5 %
5 %
5 %
Information related to operating lease activities during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 are as follows:
Operating lease rental expense
Amortization of right-of-use assets
Expense for short-term leases within 12 months
Interest of lease liabilities
Maturities of lease liabilities were as follows:
2024
2025
2026
2027
2028
Thereafter
Total undiscounted lease payments
Less: imputed interest
Total lease liabilities
F-29
For the Year Ended
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
RMB
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
16,997
16
2,585
19,598
34,520
12
3,178
37,710
25,813
—
2,173
27,986
3,636
—
306
3,942
RMB
As of December 31,
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
3,232
873
898
924
435
680
7,042
(705)
6,337
22,949
6,202
6,378
6,562
3,087
4,825
50,003
(5,014)
44,989
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
6. INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Intangible assets as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 are summarized as follows:
Intangible assets
TJ103
IPR&D TJ101
Total intangible assets
Intangible assets
TJ103
IPR&D TJ101
Total intangible assets
As of December 31, 2022
Accumulated
Gross carrying amount amortization Net carrying amount
RMB
RMB
RMB
11,670
110,330
122,000
(3,112)
—
(3,112)
8,558
110,330
118,888
As of December 31, 2023
Accumulated
Gross carrying amount amortization
RMB
RMB
Net carrying amount
RMB US$ (Note 2.5)
11,670
110,330
122,000
(3,890)
—
(3,890)
7,780
110,330
118,110
1,096
15,539
16,635
The two IPR&D assets (TJ103 and TJ101) were acquired from the business combination of I-Mab Tianjin and its subsidiaries including
Chengdu Tasgen Bio-Tech Co., Ltd. and Shanghai Tianyunjian Bio-Tech Co., Ltd. (together the “Tasgen Group”) in 2017. The licensor
of two IPR&D assets was Genexine, Inc. The gross carrying amounts represent the fair value assigned to the respective research and
development assets. At the date of acquisition, these assets had not reached technological feasibility.
IPR&D related to TJ103 was subsequently determined to have a finite useful life as a result of an out-licensing arrangement.
Consequently, the Group uses the straight-line method to amortize the asset. The amortization for the years ended December 31, 2021,
2022 and 2023 was RMB778, RMB778 and RMB778, respectively. The estimated amortization expense for each of the five succeeding
fiscal years is RMB778.
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, there was no impairment of the value of the Group’s intangible assets.
F-30
Table of Contents
7. GOODWILL
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
On July 15, 2017, the Group acquired 66.67% of the equity interests in the Tasgen Group by issuing convertible preferred shares, and
controlled the board of directors and business of I-Mab Tianjin since then. Tasgen Group is principally engaged in the research and
development of innovative medicines and the Group acquired Tasgen Group for its research team, technical experience, and IPR&D
pipeline assets (see Note 6). As of December 31, 2022, the goodwill of RMB162,574 represented the goodwill generated from the
aforementioned acquisition of Tasgen Group and the business of Tasgen Group was fully integrated into the Company after the
acquisition.
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the Group performed the quantitative impairment test by comparing the Group’s single reporting
unit’s carrying amount, including goodwill, to its fair value. The Group’s single reporting unit fair value was determined using
discounted cash flows based on ten-year financial projections with future revenues assumption for direct product sales of each pipeline
plus a terminal value related to cash flows beyond the projection period extrapolated at an estimated terminal growth rate. A pre-tax
discount rate was applied, which reflected an assessment of time value and specific risks relating to the industries that the Group operates
in. The probabilities of the success of the clinical trials based on the status of these trials and reference to the industry benchmark were
also incorporated into the assumption of future revenues. Management leveraged their experiences in the industries and provided forecast
based on past performance and their anticipation of future business and market developments.
As of December 31, 2022, management had not identified reasonably possible change in key assumptions that could cause carrying
amounts of the Group’s single reporting unit to exceed the fair value as material headroom resulted from the impairment reviews over
their respective carrying amounts. No impairment was recognized for the year ended December 31, 2022.
As of December 31, 2023, as result of the impairment assessment, management identified that the carrying amount of the Group’s single
reporting unit had exceeded its fair value. Therefore, the Group recognized a full impairment of RMB162,574 (US$22,898) against the
goodwill balance. The goodwill impairment resulted from the Group’s annual impairment analysis and reflects the continued disconnet
between I-Mab’s anticipated future performance and present uncertainty reflected in its market valuation.
8. INVESTMENTS ACCOUNTED FOR USING THE EQUITY METHOD AND PUT RIGHT LIABILITIES
(a) Investments accounted for using the equity method
Investment in I-Mab Hangzhou
I-Mab Hangzhou, incorporated on June 16, 2019, was a wholly owned subsidiary of I-Mab Hong Kong with registered capital of
US$30 million, which was paid up by I-Mab Hong Kong on September 14, 2020.
On September 15, 2020 (the “Series A Closing Date”), I-Mab Hong Kong entered into an equity transfer and investment agreement (the
“Series A SPA”) with (i) a limited partnership jointly established by the management of I-Mab Hangzhou to hold restricted equity of I-
Mab Hangzhou issued to the management (“Management Holdco”), (ii) a limited partnership established to hold the shares of I-Mab
Hangzhou for future equity incentive plan (“ESOP Holdco”) and (iii) a group of domestic investors in China (“Series A Domestic
Investors”).
In accordance with the terms of the Series A SPA,
(i)
I-Mab Hong Kong agreed to assign all rights and obligations/ownership of certain drug candidates in different stages of
development (“Target Pipelines”) to I-Mab Hangzhou as of the Series A Closing Date as well as to transfer employment of a
team of designated management/workforce to I-Mab Hangzhou. The Target Pipelines were evaluated by an independent valuer,
with a total value of US$105 million as of the Series A Closing Date;
F-31
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
8. INVESTMENTS ACCOUNTED FOR USING THE EQUITY METHOD AND PUT RIGHT LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)
(a) Investments accounted for using the equity method (continued)
Investment in I-Mab Hangzhou (continued)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
Management Holdco would acquire 10% of the equity of I-Mab Hangzhou from I-Mab Hong Kong with no consideration. The
10% equity is represented by I-Mab Hangzhou’s registered capital of US$3 million, and that after acquiring such equity,
Management Holdco is committed to pay US$3 million in cash to I-Mab Hangzhou to fulfil its capital contribution obligations
in a period of four years starting from the Series A Closing Date;
ESOP Holdco would acquire 5% of the equity of I-Mab Hangzhou from I-Mab Hong Kong with no consideration. The 5 %
equity is represented by I-Mab Hangzhou’s registered capital of US$1.5 million. All of such equity would be used for I-Mab
Hangzhou’s future equity incentive plan.
Series A Domestic Investors would acquire a total of 40% of the equity of I-Mab Hangzhou from I-Mab Hong Kong with no
consideration. The 40% equity is represented by I-Mab Hangzhou’s registered capital of US$12 million, and after acquiring
such equity of I-Mab Hangzhou, Series A Domestic Investors would pay US$120 million collectively in cash to I-Mab
Hangzhou to fulfil its capital contribution obligations.
Upon closing of the Series A SPA, the registered capital of I-Mab Hangzhou remained to be US$30 million. As of December 31, 2020,
among the total 25,500,000 outstanding shares of I-Mab Hangzhou, 13,500,000 shares were held by I-Mab Hong Kong while the
remaining 12,000,000 shares was held by Series A Domestic Investors. Shares subscribed by Management Holdco and ESOP Holdco, in
the total number of 4,500,000, have not yet been purchased by or issued to Management Holdco and ESOP Holdco as of December 31,
2020. Once all these 4,500,000 subscribed shares of I-Mab Hangzhou are purchased by or issued to Management Holdco and ESOP
Holdco, the equity interest in I-Mab Hangzhou held by I-Mab Hong Kong, Series A Domestic Investors, Management Holdco and ESOP
Holdco would be 45%, 40%, 10% and 5% respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2021,2022 and 2023, 750,000, 750,000 and
750,000 shares were issued to Management Holdco, respectively.
On the same day, I-Mab Hong Kong also entered into a shareholders agreement with the aforementioned investors (the “Series A SHA”).
According to the SHA and I-Mab Hangzhou’s articles of association, the board of directors of I-Mab Hangzhou shall be composed of
seven directors. The directors shall be elected in the following ways: I-Mab Hong Kong is entitled to appoint three directors, including
the chairman of the board of directors, as well as nominate one independent director; the Management Holdco is entitled to appoint one
director; two non-related entities of the Series A Domestic Investors are entitled to appoint one director respectively (“Investors
Directors”). Each director of the board of directors shall have one vote. I-Mab Hong Kong, Management Holdco and ESOP Holdco agree
to act in concert, as long as each of Management Holdco and ESOP Holdco respectively holds equity in I-Mab Hangzhou, when
exercising the rights as a shareholder.
As a result of the above transactions, I-Mab Hangzhou became an affiliate of the Group on the Series A Closing Date in accordance with
ASC 810 since I-Mab Hangzhou meets the definition of a business under ASC 805. Pipeline candidate related matters are considered to
be the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of I-Mab Hangzhou at the current stage, and these matters
cannot be acted without the consent from Series A Investors Directors. In accordance with ASC 810-10, I-Mab Hangzhou is a variable
interest entity, and no shareholder shall consolidate I-Mab Hangzhou under VIE model as neither party have the power to direct all the
activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of I-Mab Hangzhou. Therefore, the Group deconsolidated I-Mab
Hangzhou and retained significant influence in I-Mab Hangzhou. The investment was accounted for using the equity method. The
retained investment in the common stock of I-Mab Hangzhou was initially measured at fair value in accordance with ASC 810-10-40.
F-32
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
8. INVESTMENTS ACCOUNTED FOR USING THE EQUITY METHOD AND PUT RIGHT LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)
(a) Investments accounted for using the equity method (continued)
Investment in I-Mab Hangzhou (continued)
Subsequently, pursuant to the I-Mab Hangzhou’s articles of association, the Group applies the HLBV method to allocate earnings or losses of I-
Mab Hangzhou because the liquidation rights and priorities sufficiently differ from what is reflected by the underlying percentage ownership
interests. The Group recognized RMB309,208, RMB360,436 and RMB25,544 in equity in loss of an affiliate in the consolidated statements of
comprehensive loss for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, and in investment accounted for using the equity method in the
consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. During the year of 2023, the Group discontinued to apply the
equity method since the carrying amount of the investment had been reduced to zero.
The purchase price of US$3 million committed by Management Holdco under Series A SPA, representing 10% of the equity of I-Mab
Hangzhou, is significantly lower than the fair value of the corresponding subscribed shares as of the Closing Date. The excess is considered as
share-based compensation to the I-Mab Hangzhou’s management for the services to be used or consumed in the I-Mab Hangzhou’s own
operations. The share-based compensation is considered granted upon the Closing Date and cliff vests after five years of service since the Series
A Closing Date. Consequently, the Group recognizes its proportionate share of the compensation expense recorded by I-Mab Hangzhou. For the
years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the Group recognized RMB28,236, RMB29,375 and RMB30,969 in equity in loss of affiliates
in the consolidated financial statements of comprehensive loss, respectively.
Along with the equity transfer transaction, the team of designated management/workforce transferred from the Group to I-Mab Hangzhou
consists of several grantees under the Group’s 2020 Share Incentive Plan (“2020 Plan”, see Note 13(d)). And there were some employees
transferred from the Group to I-Mab Hangzhou in 2021 and 2022.These individuals continued to qualify the definition of the eligible
participants under the 2020 Plan and 2021 Share Incentive Plan (“2021 Plan”, see Note 13(e)) after their resignation date from the Group.
Meanwhile, there has been no change to any of the award terms. The equity transfer transaction did not trigger the modification accounting to
the share-based compensation. Additionally, given that I-Mab Hangzhou became an affiliate to the Group upon deconsolidation, and that the
other shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou are not providing proportionate value to sponsor the 2020 Plan and 2021 Plan nor is the Group receiving
any consideration for the awards granted to employees of I-Mab Hangzhou, the Group is required, under Topic 323, to expense the full costs of
share-based compensation as incurred at the same period as the costs are recognized by I-Mab Hangzhou. For the years ended December 31,
2021, 2022 and 2023, such expenses of RMB13,267, RMB13,852 and RMB4,815 were recorded in the equity in loss of affiliates in the
consolidated statements of comprehensive loss, respectively.
In 2021, 2022 and 2023, I-Mab Hangzhou granted stock options to its employees. Pursuant to the I-Mab Hangzhou’s articles of association, the
Group applies the HLBV method to allocate earnings or losses of I-Mab Hangzhou because the liquidation rights and priorities sufficiently
differ from what is reflected by the underlying percentage ownership interests. Accordingly, the Group recorded RMB17,031, RMB33,579 and
RMB19,137 in the equity in loss of affiliates in the consolidated financial statements of comprehensive loss for the years ended December 31,
2021, 2022 and 2023, and in additional paid-in capital in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
In July 2022, I-Mab Hangzhou entered into an equity transfer and investment agreement (the “Series B SPA”) and a shareholders agreement (the
“Series B SHA”) with a group of domestic investors (“Series B Domestic Investors”) in China to raise approximately US$46 million in RMB
equivalent. Once all the shares of I-Mab Hangzhou are purchased by or issued to its investors, including Management Holdco and ESOP
Holdco, the Group would hold 37.13% equity interest in I-Mab Hangzhou. Pursuant to the Series B SHA, Management Holdco and ESOP
Holdco no longer had irrevocably consented to act in concert with I-Mab Hong Kong. I-Mab Hangzhou remains the affiliate of the Group. The
Series B rounding financing in I-Mab Hangzhou was consummated in 2023.
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the carrying value of the Group’s long-term investment in I-Mab Hangzhou RMB25,214 and nil,
respectively.
On February 6, 2024, the Company entered into definitive agreements with I-Mab Hangzhou and its investors which provide that the Company’s
wholly owned subsidiary, I-Mab Hong Kong, will transfer the equity interests it holds in I-Mab Hangzhou to certain participating shareholders
of I-Mab Hangzhou in exchange for extinguishment of the existing repurchase obligations owed by I-Mab Hong Kong to those shareholders.
Details, please refer to Note 22.
F-33
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
8. INVESTMENTS ACCOUNTED FOR USING THE EQUITY METHOD AND PUT RIGHT LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)
(a) Investments accounted for using the equity method (continued)
Other long-term investment measured under equity method
In July 2021, the Group, as a limited partner, entered into a partnership agreement with other investors and subscribed RMB20,000 for a
4% equity interest in a partnership located in Hangzhou. In August 2021, the Group paid the initial investment of RMB6,000 to the
partnership. Pursuant to the partnership agreement, the Group, as a limited partner, shall not participate in any activities in relation to
management of the investment business. In addition, members of the investment committee shall only be appointed by the general
partner. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2022, the Group recorded RMB141, RMB223 in the equity in loss of affiliates in the
consolidated financial statements of comprehensive loss. In 2023, the Group paid the second investment of RMB6,000 to the partnership.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Group recorded RMB446 in the equity in income of affiliates in the consolidated financial
statements of comprehensive loss. As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the carrying value of the Group’s long-term investment in this
affiliate was RMB5,636 and RMB12,082, respectively.
The Group presented the summarized financial information of the Group’s long-term investment measured under equity method below in
accordance with Rule 4-08 of Regulation S-X (RMB in thousands).
For the year ended
December 31, 2021
I-Mab
For the year ended
December 31, 2022
I-Mab
For the year ended
December 31, 2023
I-Mab
Other equity
Hangzhou investments Hangzhou investments Hangzhou investments
Other equity
Other equity
Operating data:
Revenue
Income (Loss) from operations
Net income (loss)
Balance sheet data:
Current assets
Non-current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
(b) Put right liabilities
5,660
(295,186)
(290,586)
— 103,826
(356,734)
(346,322)
(3,513)
(3,513)
— 122,604
(313,600)
(313,600)
(5,565)
(5,565)
—
11,123
11,123
As of December 31,
I-Mab
Hangzhou
2022
Other equity
investments
I-Mab
Hangzhou
2023
Other equity
investments
499,665
1,432,328
281,587
232,083
81,683
135,347
107
—
333,423
1,508,244
313,204
349,821
67,221
313,282
58
—
Pursuant to the Series A SHA and Series B SHA, if I-Mab Hangzhou fails to consummate a public offering of I-Mab Hangzhou’s shares
on the China Stock Exchange’s Science and Technology Innovation Board, Main Board, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Board,
Growth Enterprise Board, or Hong Kong Stock Exchange, U.S. Stock Exchange, or other stock exchanges approved by the shareholders
of I-Mab Hangzhou in accordance with provisions of the Series A SHA and Series B SHA within 4 years after September 15, 2020 (the
“Repurchase Scenario”), the Series A Domestic Investors and Series B Domestic Investors (collectively, the “Domestic Investors”) will
have the right to elect to request I-Mab Hong Kong to repurchase all or any part of the equity of I-Mab Hangzhou held by such Domestic
Investors within three years of the occurrence of the Repurchase Scenario. I-Mab Hong Kong is obligated to repurchase the equity held
by the Domestic Investors in cash or in I-Mab’s stock (subject to the approval procedures of I-Mab) within 1 year from the date on which
any of the Domestic Investors delivers request of repurchase in writing. The repurchase price is determined based on the investment cost
of the Domestic Investors with pre-agreed interest. The put right liabilities were recorded as non-current liabilities as of December 31,
2022 and 2023 based on management’s best estimate of the timing in settlement of potential repurchase request from the Domestic
Investors as of the balance sheet date.
F-34
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
8. INVESTMENTS ACCOUNTED FOR USING THE EQUITY METHOD AND PUT RIGHT LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)
(b) Put right liabilities (continued)
The put right written by I-Mab Hong Kong to the Domestic Investors is a freestanding equity-linked instrument, which is classified as a
put right liability and is initially measured at fair value. Subsequent changes in fair value are recorded in other income (expenses) in the
consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.
On February 6, 2024, the Company entered into definitive agreements with I-Mab Hangzhou and its investors which provide that the
Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, I-Mab Hong Kong, will transfer the equity interests it holds in I-Mab Hangzhou to certain
participating shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou in exchange for extinguishment of the existing repurchase obligations owed by I-Mab
Hong Kong to those shareholders. Details, please refer to Note 22.
The Group determined the fair value of the put right with the assistance of an independent third-party valuation firm. The Group used the
option pricing model (finnerty model) to estimate the fair value of the put right using the following assumptions:
Put right liabilities - Series A
Expected terms (Year)
Estimated volatility
Spot price
Probability of triggering event for redemption option
Put right liabilities - Series B
Expected terms (Year)
Estimated volatility
Spot price
Probability of triggering event for redemption option
As of
December 31,
2022
As of
December 31,
2023
1.7
33.9 %
0.7
36.5 %
US$
148,276
US$
156,707
70 %
100 %
As of
December 31,
2022
As of
December 31,
2023
US$
1.7
31.1 %
36,516 US$
70 %
0.7
33.5 %
44,570
100 %
The model requires the input of key assumptions including the expected terms, estimated volatility, spot price and probability of
triggering event for redemption option. The significant unobservable inputs used in the option pricing model included spot price,
estimated volatility and probability of triggering event for redemption option. Expected terms is estimated based on the timing of a
hypothetical redemption event which is assumed to be the earlier of expected redemption date or expected public offering date. Expected
volatility is estimated based on daily stock prices of the comparable companies for a period with length commensurate to the expected
terms of redemption event. The spot price was determined using the market approach with assistance from an independent third-party
valuation firm. The significant unobservable inputs used in the market approach include estimated volatility and probability of triggering
event for redemption option. The Group’s management is ultimately responsible for the determination of the spot price and probability of
triggering event for redemption option.
Significant decreases in interval between valuation date and maturity date, estimated volatility, spot price and probability of triggering
event for redemption option would result in a significantly lower fair value measurement.
9. SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS
In December 2022, I-Mab Shanghai borrowed a loan of RMB18,956 from Shanghai Pudong Development Bank Co., Ltd. for a term of
six months and at the interest rate of 3.40% per annum. To facilitate this borrowing, I-Mab Hong Kong placed cash deposits of
USD5,000 (equivalent to approximately RMB34,823) with the bank. The use of such cash deposits and the interest earned thereon are
restricted by the bank during the period of the borrowing. This borrowing was repaid in full and the restrictions on the cash deposits were
thereof released in 2023.
F-35
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
9. SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS (CONTINUED)
In June 2023, I - Mab Shanghai borrowed credit loans with a total amount of RMB29,970 from China Merchants Bank for a term of six
months and at the interest rate of 3.40% per annum. These borrowings were extended in the fourth quarter of 2023 and were fully repaid
in March 2024 subsequently.
10. ACCRUALS AND OTHER PAYABLES
Current:
Staff salaries and welfare payables
Accrued external research and development activities related expenses
Payable due to an affiliate (Note 19)
Accrued Termination fee and other expenses in relation to the disputes with Tracon
(Note 14)
Non-refundable incentive payment from depositary bank (1)
Payables for purchase of property, equipment and software
Accrued traveling expenses, office expenses and others
Non-current:
Non-refundable incentive payment from depositary bank (1)
Non-refundable payment received in relation to the exclusive promotion right
granted to a third party (2)
Borrowings for supply chain financing (3)
Total
As of December 31,
2022
RMB
As of December 31,
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
RMB
43,483
264,972
64,782
161,106
6,428
7,124
158,677
706,572
48,604
181,232
35,058
—
9,014
1,226
82,620
357,754
6,846
25,526
4,938
—
1,270
173
11,636
50,389
6,963
751
105
10,000
—
16,963
723,535
10,000
58,913
69,664
427,418
1,408
8,298
9,811
60,200
(1) The Group received a non-refundable incentive payment of US$1,857 (equivalent to approximately RMB12,982), US$1,195
(equivalent to approximately RMB8,075) and US$671 (equivalent to approximately RMB4,734) from depositary bank in
April 2020, December 2022 and March 2023, respectively. The amount was recorded ratably as other gains over a five-year
arrangement period. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the Group has recorded RMB2,395, RMB2,821 and
RMB8,569 as other income in the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss, respectively.
(2)
(3)
In November 2021, the Group entered into a collaboration agreement with a third party located in China to grant the third party an
exclusive right to conduct promotion activities for the TJ202 drug products in designated hospitals after the commercialization of
TJ202 in future years. In November 2021, the Group received a non-refundable payment of RMB10,000 from the third party and
recorded it as the non-current liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet. This amount will be recorded as the deduction of the
selling expenses after the commercialization of TJ202 products.
In April 2023, the Group entered into an agreement with China Merchants Bank, under which the Group was granted a total credit
facility of RMB60,000 for a term of two years to support its payments to suppliers. As of December 31, 2023, the Group placed cash
deposits of RMB58,913 with the bank, and the bank paid RMB58,913 to the supplier. The use of such cash deposits is restricted
until the Group repay RMB58,913 to the bank in 2025 and is classified as long-term restricted cash. No interest expenses will be
charged to the Group.
F-36
Table of Contents
11. INCOME TAXES
Cayman Islands
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
I-Mab is incorporated in the Cayman Islands. Under the current laws of the Cayman Islands, I-Mab is not subject to tax on income or
capital gain. Additionally, the Cayman Islands does not impose a withholding tax on payments of dividends to shareholders.
Hong Kong
I-Mab did business registration in Hong Kong and has a Hong Kong tax file number.I-Mab Biopharma Hong Kong Limited is
incorporated in Hong Kong. Companies registered in Hong Kong are subject to Hong Kong profits tax on the taxable income as reported
in their respective statutory financial statements adjusted in accordance with the relevant Hong Kong tax laws. The applicable tax rate in
Hong Kong is 16.5%. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the income tax expenses recorded in the consolidated
statements of comprehensive loss for I-Mab were nil, RMB697 and nil, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and
2023, I-Mab Biopharma Hong Kong Limited did not make any provisions for Hong Kong profit tax as there were no assessable profits
derived from or earnings in Hong Kong for any of the periods presented. Under the Hong Kong tax law, I-Mab and I-Mab Biopharma
Hong Kong Limited is exempted from income tax on its foreign-derived income and there are no withholding taxes in Hong Kong on
remittance of dividends.
United States
I-Mab Biopharma US Ltd. is incorporated in U.S. and is subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax at a rate of 21%. I-Mab Biopharma
US Ltd. is also subject to state income tax in Maryland of 8.25%. I-Mab Biopharma US Ltd. has no taxable income for all periods
presented, therefore, no provision for income taxes is required.
China
On March 16, 2007, the National People’s Congress of PRC enacted a new Enterprise Income Tax Law (“new EIT law”), under which
Foreign Investment Enterprises (“FIEs”) and domestic companies would be subject to corporate income tax at a uniform rate of 25%.
The new EIT law became effective on January 1, 2008. Under the new EIT law, preferential tax treatments will continue to be granted to
entities which conduct businesses in certain encouraged sectors and to entities otherwise classified as “High and New Technology
Enterprises”.
I-Mab Shanghai has been qualified as “High and New Technology Enterprise” and enjoys a preferential income tax rate of 15% from
2021 to 2023.
The Company’s other PRC subsidiaries are subject to the statutory income tax rate of 25%.
No provision for corporate income taxes for corresponding tax residents has been made because the Group are in cumulative loss
positions for all the periods presented. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Group accrued withholding taxes with the amount
of RMB12,231 in relation to research and development service and other supporting service charges made by its non-PRC tax resident
subsidiaries to its PRC tax resident subsidiaries. As the actual withholding taxes paid to local tax bureau was RMB9,077, the Group
reversed the tax expenses of RMB3,154 in the year ended December 31, 2021.
F-37
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
11. INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)
China (continued)
Reconciliations of the differences between the PRC statutory income tax rate and the Group’s effective income tax rate for the years
ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 are as follows:
Loss before income tax
Income tax computed at respective applicable tax rate
Non-deductible expenses
Research and development expenses plus deduction
True up of withholding tax expenses
Changes in valuation allowance
Effect of tax holidays entitled by the PRC subsidiaries on basic loss per share
The principal components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
(2,334,695)
(410,899)
68,400
(50,530)
(3,154)
393,029
(3,154)
(0.84)
(2,506,620)
(442,343)
38,570
(74,415)
—
478,885
697
(0.65)
2023
RMB
US$
(1,465,694)
(263,660)
124,733
(80,069)
—
218,996
—
(0.42)
(Note 2.5)
(206,439)
(37,136)
17,569
(11,278)
—
30,845
—
(0.06)
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforward
Depreciation and amortization of property, equipment, software, intangible asset and
capitalized R&D expenses
Share-based compensation expenses
Accrual expense
Less: valuation allowance
Total deferred tax assets
Deferred tax liabilities:
Acquired intangible assets
Total deferred tax liabilities
Deferred tax assets, net
2022
RMB
As of December 31,
2023
RMB
US$
(Note 2.5)
792,602
912,137
128,472
39,189
127,950
30,210
(972,118)
17,833
91,214
197,274
8,205
(1,191,114)
17,716
12,847
27,785
1,156
(167,765)
2,495
17,833
17,833
—
17,716
17,716
—
2,495
2,495
—
F-38
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
11. INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)
China (continued)
Movement of the valuation allowance is as follows:
Balance as of January 1
Additions
Utilization and reversal of valuation allowances
Balance as of December 31
Year Ended December 31
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
(100,204)
(393,029)
—
(493,233)
(493,233)
(478,885)
—
(972,118)
(972,118)
(283,273)
64,277
(1,191,114)
US$
(Note 2.5)
(136,920)
(39,898)
9,053
(167,765)
As of December 31, 2023, the Group had a majority of net operating losses of approximately RMB4,854,145 which arose from the
subsidiaries established in the PRC. The tax losses carried forward various in the PRC will expire during the period beginning from 2024
to 2033 based on entity’s preferential tax status.
A valuation allowance is provided to reduce the amount of deferred tax assets if it is considered as more likely than not that some portion
or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized in the foreseeable future. In making such determination, the Group evaluates a variety
of positive and negative factors including the Group’s operating history, accumulated deficit, the existence of taxable temporary
differences and reversal periods.
The Group has incurred net accumulated operating losses for income tax purposes since its inception. The Group believes that it is more
likely than not that these net accumulated operating losses together with other deferred tax assets will not be utilized in the foreseeable
future. Therefore, the Group has provided full valuation allowances for the deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2022 and 2023.
The Group evaluates each uncertain tax position (including the potential application of interest and penalties) based on the technical
merits, and measure the unrecognized benefits associated with the tax positions. As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the Group did not
have any significant unrecognized uncertain tax positions.
12. ORDINARY SHARES
The Company’s authorized share capital is US$80,000 comprising 800,000,000 ordinary shares with a par value of US$0.0001 each. As
of December 31, 2020, the Company issued 164,888,519 ordinary shares.
During the year ended December 31, 2021, warrants provided to external investor in 2020 were exercised to subscribe 5,341,267
ordinary shares of the Company.
On August 23, 2022, the Company announced, that it plans to implement share repurchases pursuant to the share repurchase program
previously authorized by its board of directors. Under the share purchase plans, the Company and the senior management may purchase
up to US$40 million of ADSs in aggregate. In August 2023, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized a new share repurchase
program under which the Company may repurchase up to US$40 million of ADSs, each ten ADSs representing 23 ordinary shares of the
Company, or ordinary shares in aggregate over a 12-month period. For the year ended December 31, 2022 and 2023, the Company had
repurchased 1,652,541 ordinary shares in an aggregate amount of approximately US$3 million (equivalent to RMB21,249), and
10,656,794 ordinary shares in an aggregate amount of approximately US$8.6 million (equivalent to RMB61,260) under the authorized
share purchase program, respectively. These repurchased shares are considered not outstanding and therefore were accounted for under
the cost method and includes such treasury stock as a component of the shareholder’s equity.
F-39
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
12. ORDINARY SHARES (CONTINUED)
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, nil , nil and 3,849,268 treasury stock was used for the issuance of ordinary
shares for exercise of share options and vesting of restricted share units, respectively. As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, 1,652,541 and
8,460,067 shares were recorded as treasury stock, respectively.
During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, 8,227,843, 6,845,888 and 280,568 stock options were exercised, and
5,369,140, 1,859,819 and 1,260,701 restricted share units were issued as ordinary shares, respectively.
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
(a) 2017 Employee Stock Option Plan (“2017 Plan”)
In October 2017, the Company adopted the 2017 Plan. Under the 2017 Plan, a maximum aggregate number of 13,376,865 shares that
may be issued pursuant to all awards granted was approved. Stock options granted to an employee under the 2017 Plan will be
exercisable upon the Company completes a listing and the employee renders service to the Company in accordance with a stipulated
service schedule starting from the employee’s date of employment. Employees are generally subject to a three-year service schedule,
under which an employee earns an entitlement to vest in 50% of the option grants on the second anniversary of the grant date, a vesting
of the remaining 50% on the third anniversary of the applicable grant date. The stock option under 2017 Plan, to the extent then vested,
shall become exercisable only upon the earlier of (i) a listing, and (ii) occurrence of a change in control.
On December 25, 2019, the Second Amended and Restated 2017 Plan was approved by the shareholders and board of directors of the
Company, pursuant to which, in connection with the Company’s IPO, the maximum aggregate number of shares that may be granted
pursuant to all awards under 2017 Plan shall be adjusted in accordance with a formula pre-approved by the shareholders.
Prior to the Company completes a listing, all stock options granted to an employee shall be forfeited at the time the employee terminates
his employment with the Group. After the Company completes a listing, vested options not exercised by an employee shall be exercised
until later of: (i) 90 days after the date when the options become exercisable, or (ii) 30 days after the date of cessation of employment or
directorship, or such longer period as the Board of Directors may otherwise determine.
The Group did not grant any stock options to employees for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023. 1,782,617 and
1,665,252 stock options were exercisable as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
F-40
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)
(a) 2017 Employee Stock Option Plan (“2017 Plan”) (continued)
The following table sets forth the stock options activities of 2017 Plan for the periods presented:
Outstanding as of December 31 , 2020
Exercised
Forfeited
Outstanding as of December 31 , 2021
Exercised
Outstanding as of December 31 , 2022
Exercised
Expired
Outstanding as of December 31 , 2023
Exercisable as of December 31, 2023
Weighted Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
term
average
exercise
price
US$
0.97
0.96
1.00
1.00
1.00
1.00
1.00
1.00
1.00
1.00
6.75
—
—
5.79
—
4.75
—
—
3.66
3.66
Number of
shares
7,702,066
(5,122,549)
(10,500)
2,569,017
(786,400)
1,782,617
(73,444)
(43,921)
1,665,252
1,665,252
Aggregate
intrinsic
value
US$
150,415
—
—
50,361
—
1,457
—
—
—
—
All the stock options were vested as of December 31, 2021.
Share-based compensation expenses related to the stock options of 2017 Plan are included in:
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses
Equity in loss of affiliates
(b) 2018 Employee Stock Option Plan (“2018 Plan”)
Year Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
RMB
(225)
2,835
516
3,126
—
—
—
—
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
On February 22, 2019, the Group adopted the 2018 Plan, which was subsequently amended on July 22, 2019.Under the amended and
restated 2018 Plan, the maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares which may be issued pursuant to all awards is 14,005,745, and if
the Group successfully lists on an internationally recognized securities exchange for a Qualified Public Offering by December 31, 2019,
the maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares which may be issued shall be 15,452,620.
On December 25, 2019, the Second Amended and Restated 2018 Plan were approved by the shareholders and board of directors of the
Company, pursuant to which, in connection with the Company’s IPO, the maximum aggregate number of shares that may be granted
pursuant to all awards under 2018 Plan shall be adjusted in accordance with a formula pre-approved by the shareholders.
F-41
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)
(b) 2018 Employee Stock Option Plan (“2017 Plan”) (continued)
Stock options granted to an employee under the 2018 Plan will be generally exercisable when the Company completes a listing and the
employee renders service to the Company in accordance with a stipulated service schedule starting from the employee’s date of
employment. The vesting schedule shall generally be a two-year vesting schedule consisting of a cliff vesting 50% on the first
anniversary of the applicable vesting commencement date, and a vesting of the remaining 50% on the second anniversary of the
applicable vesting commencement date. If a listing occurs at anytime prior to any option granted under the 2018 Plan becoming full
vested, and to the extent such option has been granted and outstanding, any such option shall vest in full with immediate effect upon the
listing. Except as otherwise approved by the board of directors, vested portion of option shall become exercisable upon the earlier of six
months after a listing or the occurrence of a change in control; provided, however that in each case, no option of an employee shall
become exercisable until the third anniversary of such employee’s employment commencement date.
The following table sets forth the stock options activities of 2018 Plan for the periods presented:
Outstanding as of December 31, 2020
Exercised
Outstanding as of December 31, 2021
Exercised
Outstanding as of December 31, 2022
Exercised
Expired
Outstanding as of December 31, 2023
Exercisable as of December 31, 2023
Weighted
average
exercise
price
US$
Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
term
1.00
1.00
1.00
1.00
1.00
1.00
1.00
1.00
1.00
8.15
—
7.15
—
6.15
—
—
5.15
5.15
Aggregate
intrinsic
value
US$
206,499
—
148,076
—
1,233
—
—
—
—
Number of
shares
10,589,671
(3,036,435)
7,553,236
(6,044,843)
1,508,393
(333,998)
(998)
1,173,397
1,173,397
All the stock options were vested as of December 31, 2021.
Share-based compensation expenses related to the stock options of 2018 Plan are included in:
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses
Equity in loss of affiliates
(c) 2019 Share Incentive Plan (“2019 Plan”)
Year Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
RMB
55
4,478
257
4,790
—
—
—
—
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
On October 29, 2019, the Group adopted 2019 Share Incentive Plan (the “2019 Plan”), which will become effective immediately prior to
the completion of the Company’s initial public offering. Under the 2019 Plan, the maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares
available for issuance shall initially be 100,000.
F-42
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)
(c) 2019 Share Incentive Plan (“2019 Plan”) (continued)
The options shall vest when the Group completes a listing and the employee renders service to the Group in accordance with a stipulated
service schedule starting from the employee’s date of employment. Stock options granted to 3 independent directors under the 2019 Plan
will be generally exercisable under the following terms:(a) a cliff vesting of 1/3 of the option on the first anniversary of the vesting
commencement date (January 17, 2020); (b) a cliff vesting of 1/3 of the option on the second anniversary of the vesting commencement
date (January 17, 2020); (c) a vesting of the remaining 1/3 of the option on the third anniversary of the vesting commencement date. In
the last year of the grantee’s service, the options shall vest on a prorated basis to reflect the portion of the year during which the grantee
provided services to the Group.
For the year ended December 31, 2020, the Group granted 72,000 stock options to 3 independent directors (all with an exercise price of
US$6.09). 48,000 and 72,000 options were exercisable as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
The following table sets forth the stock options activities of 2019 Plan for periods presented:
Outstanding as of December 31, 2020
Granted
Outstanding as of December 31, 2021
Granted
Outstanding as of December 31, 2022
Granted
Outstanding as of December 31, 2023
Exercisable as of December 31, 2023
Weighted
average
exercise
price
US$
Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
term
Aggregate
intrinsic
value
US$
6.09
—
6.09
—
6.09
—
6.09
6.09
9.33
—
8.05
—
7.05
—
6.05
6.05
1,038
—
1,045
—
—
—
—
—
Number of
shares
72,000
—
72,000
—
72,000
—
72,000
72,000
A summary of non-vested stock options activity for the year ended December 31, 2023 is presented below:
Non-vested at December 31, 2022
Vested
Non-vested at December 31, 2023
Share-based compensation expenses related to the stock options of 2019 Plan are included in:
Number of shares
24,000
(24,000)
—
Weighted average
grant-date
fair value
US$
4.50
4.50
—
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses
Equity in loss of affiliates
Year Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
RMB
—
707
—
707
—
288
—
288
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
—
2
—
2
—
13
—
13
F-43
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)
(d) 2020 Plan
On July 15, 2020, the Group adopted 2020 Plan. Under the 2020 Plan, the maximum aggregate number of shares authorized to be issued
is 10,760,513 ordinary shares, provided that the maximum number of shares to be issued in the form of restricted share units shall not
exceed 7,686,081 ordinary shares.
Stock options granted to employees under the 2020 Plan are graded vesting in four years with 25% vesting each year.
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the Group granted 133,913, 2,026,300 and nil stock options to its employees,
respectively. 353,949 options and 1,299,637 options were exercisable as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
The following table sets forth the stock options activities of 2020 Plan for the periods presented:
Outstanding as of December 31, 2020
Granted
Exercised
Expired
Forfeited
Outstanding as of December 31, 2021
Granted
Exercised
Expired
Forfeited
Outstanding as of December 31, 2022
Expired
Forfeited
Outstanding as of December 31, 2023
Exercisable as of December 31, 2023
Weighted
average
exercise
price
US$
Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
term
5.91
18.85
5.91
5.91
6.23
7.61
9.20
5.91
6.74
7.65
8.81
10.78
10.33
8.47
8.21
9.62
—
—
—
—
8.68
—
—
—
—
8.76
—
—
7.62
7.37
Aggregate
intrinsic
value
US$
15,237
—
—
—
—
12,967
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Number of
shares
1,044,368
133,913
(68,859)
(154)
(111,495)
997,773
2,026,300
(14,645)
(69,051)
(170,490)
2,769,887
(179,992)
(291,751)
2,298,144
1,299,637
A summary of non-vested stock option activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 is presented below:
Non-vested at December 31, 2022
Vested
Forfeited
Non-vested at December 31, 2023
F-44
Weighted average
grant-date
fair value
US$
5.40
5.22
7.20
5.08
Number of shares
2,415,938
(1,125,680)
(291,751)
998,507
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)
(d) 2020 Plan (continued)
Stock options granted to the employees were measured at fair value on the dates of grant using the Binomial Option Pricing Model with
the following assumptions:
Expected volatility
Risk-free interest rate (per annum)
Exercise multiple
Expected dividend yield
Time to maturity (in years)
Year Ended December 31,
2021
50.78%-51.84%
1.32%-1.88%
2.20-2.80
—
10
2022
53.66 %
1.88 %
2.20-2.80
—
10
The expected volatility was estimated based on the historical volatility of comparable peer public companies with a time horizon close to
the expected term of the Group’s options. The risk-free interest rate was estimated based on the yield to maturity of U.S. treasury bonds
denominated in US$ for a term consistent with the expected term of the Group’s options in effect at the option valuation date. The
expected exercise multiple was estimated as the average ratio of the stock price to the exercise price when employees would decide to
voluntarily exercise their vested options. As the Group did not have sufficient information of past employee exercise history, it was
estimated by referencing to a widely-accepted academic research publication. Expected dividend yield is zero as the Group has never
declared or paid any cash dividends on its shares, and the Group does not anticipate any dividend payments in the foreseeable future.
Time to maturity equals to the contract life of the option.
Share-based compensation expenses related to the stock options of 2020 Plan are included in:
Year Ended December 31,
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses
Equity in loss of affiliates
2021
RMB
14,915
8,702
3,262
26,879
2022
RMB
17,068
25,897
2,846
45,811
RMB
3,244
9,189
1,299
13,732
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
457
1,294
182
1,933
Restricted share units granted to employees under the 2020 Plan will be exercisable under the following items:
(1) 1/3 of the awarded restricted share units shall vest based on the following time attribution:(i) a vesting of 25% of the time attribution
based restricted share units on the first anniversary of the applicable adoption date;(ii) a vesting of 25% of the time attribution based
restricted share units on the second anniversary of the applicable adoption date;(iii) a vesting of 25% of the time attribution based
restricted share units on the third anniversary of the applicable adoption date;(iv) a vesting of 25% of the time attribution based restricted
share units on the fourth anniversary of the applicable adoption date.
(2) 1/3 of the awarded restricted share units shall vest based on the Group’s weighted average market value during the last 30 days prior
to the initial vesting date, the terms and conditions of which are set forth in the executed award agreements. In the event that dilution of
additional share issuance occurs, the market value targets herein shall be adjusted accordingly with the proportion of additional share
issuance. In the event that the average market value of Standard & Poor’s 500 index falls by more than 20% from the date of grant, it
shall be deemed as a decline of the market, and the board of the Group or a committee that board delegated its powers or authority to
shall adjust the vesting schedule as appropriate.
F-45
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)
(d) 2020 Plan (Continued)
(3) 1/3 of the awarded restricted share units shall vest based on certain performance conditions:(i) a vesting of 20% of the performance
conditions based restricted share units if one of the performance conditions has been met at the initial vesting date;(ii) a vesting of 40%
of the performance conditions based restricted share units if two of the performance conditions have been met at the initial vesting date;
(iii) a vesting of 60% of the performance conditions based restricted share units if three of the performance conditions have been met at
the initial vesting date;(iv) a vesting of 80% of the performance conditions based restricted share units if four of the performance
conditions have been met at the initial vesting date; (v) a vesting of all of the performance conditions based restricted share units if five
of the performance conditions or more have been met at the initial vesting date. As of December 31, 2020, it is probable that the 1/3 of
the awarded restricted share units are fully vested because it is probable that at least five of the performance conditions will be met at the
initial vesting date.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Group’s weighted average market value during the last 30 days prior to the initial vesting date
reaches US$2 billion or above, and to the extent such restricted share units have been granted and outstanding, any such restricted share
unit (except for those are based on time attribution) shall vest in full with immediate effect, inure to the benefit of the related grantees.
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the Group granted 1,649,045, 755,734 and nil restricted share units to
employees, respectively.
The following table sets forth the restricted share units of 2020 Plan for the periods presented:
Outstanding as of December 31, 2020
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Outstanding as of December 31, 2021
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Outstanding as of December 31, 2022
Vested
Forfeited
Outstanding as of December 31, 2023
F-46
Weighted
average
exercise
price
US$
Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
term
Aggregate
intrinsic
value
US$
83,632
—
—
—
30,531
—
—
—
2,266
—
—
428
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
9.70
—
—
—
8.95
—
—
—
8.55
—
—
7.63
Number of
restricted
share units
4,079,618
1,649,045
(4,048,000)
(198,872)
1,481,791
755,734
(720,232)
(270,482)
1,246,811
(576,326)
(152,478)
518,007
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)
(d) 2020 Plan (Continued)
A summary of non-vested restricted share units activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 is presented below:
Non-vested at December 31, 2022
Vested
Forfeited
Non-vested at December 31, 2023
Number of restricted share
units
Weighted average
grant-date
fair value
US$
1,246,811
(576,326)
(152,478)
518,007
2.98
11.76
13.35
12.33
Share-based compensation expenses related to the aforementioned restricted share units of 2020 Plan are included in:
Year Ended December 31,
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses
Equity in loss of affiliates
2021
RMB
118,368
227,392
8,512
354,272
2022
RMB
18,055
37,399
4,214
59,668
RMB
4,657
10,232
1,575
16,464
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
656
1,441
222
2,319
Apart from the aforementioned restricted share units, up to 1,446,875 shares can be issued in the form of restricted share unit to eligible
grantees that the board of the Group or a committee that board delegated its powers or authority determined appropriate with immediate
effect of being fully vested, which are defined as special awards and are subject to terms and conditions under 2018 Plan. For the year
ended December 31, 2020, the Group granted 1,328,120 such restricted share units to employees. All the restricted share units were
vested as of December 31, 2021.
The following table sets forth the restricted share units subject to terms and conditions under 2020 Plan for the periods presented:
Outstanding as of December 31, 2020
Vested
Outstanding as of December 31, 2021
Weighted
average
exercise
price
US$
Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
term
Number of
restricted
share units
762,920
(762,920)
—
1.00
1.00
—
9.65
—
—
Aggregate
intrinsic
value
US$
14,877
—
—
Share-based compensation expenses related to these restricted share units are included in:
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses
Equity in loss of affiliates
2021
RMB
4,156
54,011
720
58,887
Year Ended December 31,
2022
RMB
RMB
—
—
—
—
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
F-47
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)
(e) 2021 Plan
On May 28, 2021, the Group adopted 2021 Plan. Under the 2021 Plan, the maximum aggregate number of shares authorized to be issued
is 12,023,618 ordinary shares, provided that the maximum number of shares to be issued in the form of restricted share units shall not
exceed 6,011,809 ordinary shares.
Stock options granted to employees under the 2021 Plan are graded vesting in four years with 25% vesting each year. For the years ended
December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the Group granted 2,698,245, 2,787,738 and 322,575 stock options to its employees, respectively.
519,377 options and 1,569,157 were exercisable as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
The following table sets forth the stock options activities of 2021 Plan for the year ended December 31,2023:
Outstanding as of December 31, 2020
Granted
Forfeited
Outstanding as of December 31, 2021
Granted
Forfeited
Expired
Outstanding as of December 31, 2022
Granted
Forfeited
Expired
Outstanding as of December 31, 2023
Exercisable as of December 31, 2023
Weighted
average
exercise
price
US$
Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
term
Number of
shares
Aggregate
intrinsic
value
US$
—
2,698,245
(253,805)
2,444,440
2,787,738
(880,304)
(46,202)
4,305,672
322,575
(770,989)
(401,300)
3,455,958
1,569,157
—
26.43
26.39
26.44
9.20
18.21
26.39
17.32
6.20
15.31
14.34
17.07
18.07
—
—
—
9.57
—
—
—
8.89
—
—
—
7.88
7.69
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
A summary of non-vested stock option activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 is presented below:
Non-vested at December 31, 2022
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Non-vested at December 31, 2023
F-48
Number of shares
3,786,295
322,575
(1,451,080)
(770,989)
1,886,801
Weighted average
grant-date
fair value
US$
1.76
1.07
7.22
7.81
8.36
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)
(e) 2021 Share Incentive Plan (“2021 Plan”) (Continued)
Stock options granted to the employees were measured at fair value on the dates of grant using the Binomial Option Pricing Model with
the following assumptions:
Expected volatility
Risk-free interest rate (per annum)
Exercise multiple
Expected dividend yield
Time to maturity (in years)
2021
Year Ended December 31,
2022
2023
51.77%-54.37 % 53.66%-58.97 %
1.88%-3.53 %
2.20-2.80
—
10
1.44%-1.68 %
2.20-2.80
—
10
59.49 %
3.88 %
2.80
—
10
The expected volatility was estimated based on the historical volatility of comparable peer public companies with a time horizon close to
the expected term of the Group’s options. The risk-free interest rate was estimated based on the yield to maturity of U.S. treasury bonds
denominated in US$ for a term consistent with the expected term of the Group’s options in effect at the option valuation date. The
expected exercise multiple was estimated as the average ratio of the stock price to the exercise price when employees would decide to
voluntarily exercise their vested options. As the Group did not have sufficient information of past employee exercise history, it was
estimated by referencing to a widely-accepted academic research publication. Expected dividend yield is zero as the Group has never
declared or paid any cash dividends on its shares, and the Group does not anticipate any dividend payments in the foreseeable future.
Time to maturity equals to the contract life of the option.
Share-based compensation expenses related to the stock options of 2021 Plan are included in:
Year Ended December 31,
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses
Equity in loss of affiliates
2021
RMB
20,430
35,226
—
55,656
2022
RMB
36,104
75,980
2,715
114,799
RMB
8,540
25,683
1,538
35,761
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
1,203
3,617
217
5,037
Restricted share units granted to employees under the 2021 Plan will be exercisable under the following items:
(1) 1/3 of the awarded restricted share units shall vest based on the following time attribution:(i) a vesting of 25% of the time attribution
based restricted share units on the first anniversary of the applicable adoption date;(ii) a vesting of 25% of the time attribution based
restricted share units on the second anniversary of the applicable adoption date;(iii) a vesting of 25% of the time attribution based
restricted share units on the third anniversary of the applicable adoption date;(iv) a vesting of 25% of the time attribution based restricted
share units on the fourth anniversary of the applicable adoption date.
(2) 1/3 of the awarded restricted share units shall vest based on the Group’s weighted average share price during any consecutive
90 days within one year after the adoption date of 2021 Plan (the “Share Price Based Awards”):
a vesting of 75% of the Share Price Based Awards on the first anniversary of the adoption date of 2021 Plan, if the Group’s
i.
weighted average share price reaches the first share price level as approved by the Board;
a vesting of 100% of the Share Price Based Awards on the first anniversary of the adoption date of 2021 Plan, if the
ii.
Group’s weighted average share price reaches the second share price level as approved by the Board;
F-49
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)
(e) 2021 Share Incentive Plan (“2021 Plan”) (continued)
In the event that any share issuance in connection with any share split, share dividend, reclassification or other similar event occurs, the
target share price herein shall be adjusted accordingly with the proportion of additional share issuance. In the event that the average
market value of NASDAQ Biotechnology Index falls by more than 20% from the adoption date of the 2021 Plan, it shall be deemed as a
decline of the market, and the Group shall adjust the vesting schedule as appropriate.
(3) 1/3 of the awarded restricted share units shall vest based on the performance conditions as approved by the Board (the “Performance
Conditions Based Awards”):
i.
a vesting of 75% of the Performance Conditions Based Awards if more than nine (including nine) but less than twelve of
the fifteen performance conditions have been met on or before the first anniversary of the adoption date;
ii.
a vesting of all of Performance Conditions Based Awards if more than twelve (including twelve) of the fifteen performance
conditions have been met on or before the first anniversary of the adoption date;
As of December 31, 2021, it is probable that the 2/3 of the awarded restricted share units are fully vested because it is probable that the
Group’s weighted average share price can reach the second share price level as approved by the Board during any consecutive 90 days
within one year after the adoption date of 2021 Plan, and more than twelve of the fifteen performance conditions will be met on or before
the first anniversary of the adoption date.
The following table sets forth the restricted share units of 2021 Plan for the period presented:
Outstanding as of December 31, 2020
Granted
Forfeited
Outstanding as of December 31, 2021
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Outstanding as of December 31, 2022
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Outstanding as of December 31, 2023
Weighted
average
exercise
price
US$
Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
term
Number of
restricted
share units
Aggregate
intrinsic
value
US$
—
1,827,166
(170,913)
1,656,253
821,215
(1,139,587)
(301,908)
1,035,973
2,080,299
(1,494,415)
(206,519)
1,415,338
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
9.57
—
—
—
8.55
—
—
—
8.82
—
—
—
34,126
—
—
—
2,266
—
—
—
1,169
F-50
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)
(e) 2021 Share Incentive Plan (“2021 Plan”) (continued)
A summary of non-vested restricted share units activities for year ended December 31, 2023 is presented below:
Non-vested at December 31, 2022
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Non-vested at December 31, 2023
Number of restricted
share units
Weighted average
grant-date fair value
US$
1,035,973
2,080,299
(1,494,415)
(206,519)
1,415,338
5.19
2.21
5.94
11.75
6.46
Share-based compensation expenses related to the restricted share units of 2021 Plan are included in:
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses
Equity in loss of affiliates
(f) 2022 Share Incentive Plan (“2022 Plan”)
Year Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
44,227
73,332
—
117,559
2022
RMB
46,649
99,708
4,077
150,434
RMB
10,495
25,471
403
36,369
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
1,478
3,588
57
5,123
On June 17, 2022, the Group adopted 2022 Plan. Under the 2022 Plan, the maximum aggregate number of shares authorized to be issued
is 13,148,594 ordinary shares, provided that the maximum number of shares to be issued in the form of restricted share units shall not
exceed 5,478,577 ordinary shares.
Stock options granted to employees under the 2022 Plan are graded vesting in four years with 25% vesting each year. For the years ended
December 31, 2022 and 2023, the Group granted nil and 6,672,944 stock options to its employees, respectively. 1,468,707 were
exercisable as of December 31, 2023.
The following table sets forth the stock options activities of 2022 Plan for the year ended December 31, 2023:
Outstanding as of December 31, 2022
Granted
Forfeited
Expired
Outstanding as of December 31, 2023
Exercisable as of December 31, 2023
F-51
Weighted Weighted
Number of
shares
—
6,672,944
(812,507)
(124,933)
5,735,504
1,468,707
average
exercise
price
US$
average
remaining
contractual
term
Aggregate
intrinsic
value
US$
—
2.60
2.41
2.41
2.62
2.62
—
—
—
—
8.95
8.74
—
—
—
—
—
—
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)
(f) 2022 Share Incentive Plan (“2022 Plan”) (continued)
A summary of non-vested stock option activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 is presented below:
Non-vested at December 31, 2022
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Non-vested at December 31, 2023
Number of shares
Weighted average
grant-date fair value
US$
—
6,672,944
(1,593,640)
(812,507)
4,266,797
—
1.33
1.34
1.28
1.34
Stock options granted to the employees were measured at fair value on the dates of grant using the Binomial Option Pricing Model with
the following assumptions:
Expected volatility
Risk-free interest rate (per annum)
Exercise multiple
Expected dividend yield
Time to maturity (in years)
Year Ended December 31,
2023
59.18 %
3.89 %
2.20-2.80
—
10
The expected volatility was estimated based on the historical volatility of comparable peer public companies with a time horizon close to
the expected term of the Group’s options. The risk-free interest rate was estimated based on the yield to maturity of U.S. treasury bonds
denominated in US$ for a term consistent with the expected term of the Group’s options in effect at the option valuation date. The
expected exercise multiple was estimated as the average ratio of the stock price to the exercise price when employees would decide to
voluntarily exercise their vested options. As the Group did not have sufficient information of past employee exercise history, it was
estimated by referencing to a widely-accepted academic research publication. Expected dividend yield is zero as the Group has never
declared or paid any cash dividends on its shares, and the Group does not anticipate any dividend payments in the foreseeable future.
Time to maturity equals to the contract life of the option.
Share-based compensation expenses related to the stock options of 2022 Plan are included in:
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses
Equity in loss of affiliates
Year Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
—
—
—
—
RMB
13,452
20,231
—
33,683
2023
US$(Note 2.5)
1,895
2,849
—
4,744
—
—
—
—
F-52
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)
(f) 2022 Share Incentive Plan (“2022 Plan”) (Continued)
Restricted share units granted to employees under the 2022 Plan will be exercisable under the following items:
(1) 1/2 of the awarded restricted share units shall vest based on the following time attribution:(i) a vesting of 25% of the time attribution
based restricted share units on the first anniversary of the applicable adoption date;(ii) a vesting of 25% of the time attribution based
restricted share units on the second anniversary of the applicable adoption date;(iii) a vesting of 25% of the time attribution based
restricted share units on the third anniversary of the applicable adoption date;(iv) a vesting of 25% of the time attribution based restricted
share units on the fourth anniversary of the applicable adoption date.
(2) 1/2 of the awarded restricted share units shall vest based on performance conditions as approved by the board (the “Performance
Conditions Based Awards”):
i.
a vesting of 75% of the Performance Conditions Based Awards on the initial vesting date if more than eight but less than
ten of the performance conditions have been met on or before the first anniversary of the adoption date; and;
ii.
a vesting of 100% of the Performance Conditions Based Awards on the initial vesting date if more than ten of the
performance conditions have been met on or before the first anniversary of the Adoption Date.
As of December 31, 2023, it is probable that the 1/2 of the awarded restricted share units are fully vested because more than ten of the
thirteen performance conditions will be met on or before the first anniversary of the adoption date.
The following table sets forth the restricted share units of 2022 Plan for the period presented:
Outstanding as of December 31, 2022
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Outstanding as of December 31, 2023
Weighted Weighted
Number of
restricted
share units
—
4,883,452
(2,912,354)
(416,374)
1,554,724
average
exercise
price
US$
average
remaining
contractual
term
Aggregate
intrinsic
value
US$
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
9.02
—
—
—
—
1,284
A summary of non-vested restricted share units activities for year ended December 31, 2023 is presented below:
Non-vested at December 31, 2022
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Non-vested at December 31, 2023
F-53
Number of restricted
share units
Weighted average
grant-date fair value
US$
—
4,883,452
(2,912,354)
(416,374)
1,554,724
—
2.41
2.41
2.41
2.41
Table of Contents
I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)
(f) 2022 Share Incentive Plan (“2022 Plan”) (Continued)
Share-based compensation expenses related to the restricted share units of 2022 Plan are included in:
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses
Equity in loss of affiliates
(g) Establishment of Biomaster Trust
2021
RMB
—
—
—
—
Year Ended December 31,
2022
RMB
RMB
26,370
35,425
—
61,795
2023
US$(Note 2.5)
3,714
4,990
—
8,704
—
—
—
—
Biomaster Trust was established under the trust deed dated October 23, 2019, between the Company and TMF Trust (HK) Limited, or
TMF Trust, as the trustee of the Biomaster Trust. Through the Biomaster Trust, the Company’s ordinary shares and other rights and
interests under awards granted pursuant to 2017 Plan and 2018 Plan may be provided to certain recipients of equity awards. Upon
satisfaction of vesting conditions, TMF Trust will exercise the equity awards and transfer the relevant ordinary shares and other rights
and interests under the equity awards to the relevant grant recipients with the consent of the advisory committee of Biomaster Trust.
TMF Trust shall not exercise the voting rights attached to such ordinary shares unless otherwise directed by the advisory committee,
whose members shall be appointed by I-Mab. The Company has the power to direct the relevant activities of Biomaster Trust and it has
the ability to use its power over the Biomaster Trust to affect its exposure to returns. Therefore, the assets and liabilities of the Biomaster
Trust are included in the Group’s consolidated balance sheets. Biomaster Trust was dissolved in 2023.
Share-Based Compensation Expense
The allocation of share-based compensation expense was as follows:
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses
Equity in loss of an affiliate
Year Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
201,926
406,683
13,267
621,876
2022
RMB
117,876
239,272
13,852
371,000
2023
RMB
66,758
126,244
4,815
197,817
US$ (Note 2.5)
9,403
17,781
678
27,862
As of December 31, 2023, there was RMB91,024 (US$12,820) of unrecognized share-based compensation cost related to non-vested
share options and restricted share units. That deferred cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average vesting period of 1.32
years. To the extent the actual forfeiture rate is different from the original estimate, actual share-based compensation related to these
awards may be different from the expectation.
F-54
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
14. LICENSING AND COLLABORATION ARRANGEMENTS
The following is a description of the Group’s significant licensing and collaboration agreements entered into from January 1, 2017 to
December 31, 2023.
A. In-Licensing Arrangements
Licensing Agreement with MorphoSys AG (“MorphoSys”)
In November 2017, the Group entered into a license and collaboration agreement with MorphoSys, with respect to the development and
commercialization of MOR202/TJ202, MorphoSys´s proprietary investigational antibody against CD38 (the “CD38 product”).
Under this agreement, MorphoSys granted to the Group an exclusive, royalty-bearing, sublicensable license to exploit MOR202/TJ202
for any human therapeutic or diagnostic purpose in the licensed territory, namely mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan
(collectively “Greater China”).
Pursuant to this agreement, the Group granted to MorphoSys an exclusive license to its rights in any inventions that the Group make
while exploiting the CD38 product under this agreement, solely to exploit the CD38 product outside of Greater China.
Pursuant to this agreement, the Group paid to MorphoSys an upfront license fee of US$20.0 million (equivalent to approximately
RMB132.7 million). The Group also agreed to make milestone payments to MorphoSys, conditioned upon the achievement of certain
development, regulatory and commercial milestones, in the aggregate amount of US$98.5 million (equivalent to approximately
RMB653.5 million). Such milestones include first patient dosed in human clinical trials, marketing approval, and first annual net sales of
CD38 products covered by the agreement in excess of a certain amount.
In addition, the Group is required to pay tiered low-double-digit royalties to MorphoSys on a country-by-country and product-by-product
basis during the term, commencing with the first commercial sale of a relevant licensed product in Greater China. Unless terminated
earlier in accordance with the terms thereof, this agreement will remain in effect until the expiration of the Group’s last payment
obligation under the agreement.
In 2017, the Group paid US$20.0 million (equivalent to approximately RMB132.7 million) upfront fee to MorphoSys, which was
recorded as research and development expense. No additional payments were made in 2018. Due to the uncertainty involved in meeting
these developments and commercialization based targets, the Group evaluated and concluded that the remaining milestones are still not
probable as of December 31, 2018. In March and April 2019, the project achieved the first and second milestone and the Group paid
US$8.0 million (equivalent to approximately RMB55.7 million) of milestone fees to MorphoSys, which was recorded as research and
development expense in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2019. No additional
payments were made for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 as no milestone has been achieved.
Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations as disclosed in Notes 22 and as of the date of this annual
report, the Company is no longer a contracting party of the license and collaboration agreement with MorphoSys with respect to TJ202
(felzartamab) and will no longer assume any rights, title, interest and obligations thereof.
Licensing Agreement with Genexine, Inc. (“Genexine”)
In December 2017, the Group entered into an intellectual property agreement with Genexine with respect to GX-I7/TJ107, a long-acting
IL-7 cytokine. Under this agreement, the Group obtained an exclusive, sublicensable and transferable license to use and otherwise exploit
certain intellectual property in connection with the pre-clinical and clinical development, manufacturing, sale and distribution of GX-I7
to treat cancer in Greater China.
F-55
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
14. LICENSING AND COLLABORATION ARRANGEMENTS (CONTINUED)
A. In-Licensing Arrangements (continued)
Licensing Agreement with Genexine, Inc. (“Genexine”) (continued)
Under the terms of the agreement, the Group made an upfront payment of US$12.0 million (equivalent to approximately RMB79.6
million) to Genexine which was recorded as a research and development expense in January 2018. The Group also agreed to make
milestone payments in the aggregate amount of US$23.0 million (equivalent to approximately RMB152.6 million), conditioned upon the
achievement of certain development milestones, including completion of Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical studies and new drug application
(“NDA”) or biologic license application (“BLA”) approval in Greater China.
Further, the Group agreed to make milestone payments in the aggregate amount of US$525.0 million (equivalent to approximately
RMB3,482.7 million), conditioned upon the achievement of certain cumulative net sales of GX-I7 up to US$2,000 million. The Group
also is required to pay Genexine a low-single-digit percentage royalty in respect of the total annual net sales of GX-I7. The aforesaid
milestones and royalties (other than the upfront payment) will be reduced by 50% following the entry of a generic version of GX-I7 in
China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan without the consent or authorization of the Group or any of the Group’s sublicensees.
Unless terminated earlier in accordance with the terms thereof, this agreement will remain in effect until the later of (i) the expiry of the
last to expire patent of the licensed intellectual property that includes a valid claim for Greater China and that covers the composition of
GX-I7; and (ii) 15 years from the date of the first commercial sale of GX-I7.
No additional payments to Genexine were made in the year ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023. Due to the uncertainty involved
in meeting these development and commercialization based targets, the Group evaluated and concluded that the remaining milestones are
still not probable as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023.
In May 2020, the Group and Genexine entered into an amendment to this agreement whereby both parties desire to establish
collaboration on TJ107 GBM Study in Greater China Under the terms of the expanded collaboration, the Group will be mainly
responsible for using commercially reasonable efforts to conduct the Phase 2 GBM clinical trial in Greater China, and Genexine will
share the development strategies, data and costs for success of this clinical trial. The Group shall undertake to bear two-thirds (2/3)
proportion of the clinical development costs and Genexine shall undertake to bear one-third (1/3) proportion of these costs. For the year
ended December 31, 2021, the costs incurred for the development of this new indication was RMB13.2 million and thus RMB8.8 million
expense was recorded in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss. For the year ended December 31, 2022, the costs incurred for
the development of this new indication was RMB7.0 million and thus RMB4.7 million expense was recorded in the consolidated
statement of comprehensive loss. For the year ended December 31, 2023, the costs incurred for the development of this new indication
was RMB1.7 million and thus RMB1.2 million expense was recorded in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss.
Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations as disclosed in Notes 22 and as of the date of this annual
report, the Company has not completed the assignment of the intellectual property license agreement with Genexine with respect to GX-
I7/TJ107 (efineptakin alfa).
Licensing Agreement with MorphoSys
In November 2018, the Group entered into a license and collaboration agreement with MorphoSys for MorphoSys´s proprietary antibody
(MOR210/TJ210) directed against C5aR (the “C5aR Agreement”). Under this agreement, the Group obtained an exclusive, royalty-
bearing license to explore, develop and commercialize certain anti-C5aR antibodies in Greater China and South Korea.
F-56
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
14. LICENSING AND COLLABORATION ARRANGEMENTS (CONTINUED)
A. In-Licensing Arrangements (continued)
Licensing Agreement with MorphoSys (continued)
The Group will perform and fund all global development activities related to the development of MOR210/TJ210 in Greater China and
South Korea, including all relevant clinical trials (including in the U.S. and China) and all development activities required for IND filing
in the US as well as CMC development of manufacturing processes. MorphoSys retains rights in respect of development and
commercialization of MOR210/TJ210 in the rest of the world.
Under the terms of the agreement, the Group also agreed to make milestone payments conditional upon the achievement of certain
development milestones and certain annual net sales of anti-C5aR antibodies. The Group is also required to pay to MorphoSys tiered
mid-single-digit royalties on annual net sales of anti-C5aR antibody products within the licensed territory.
In 2018, the Group paid US$3.5 million (equivalent to approximately RMB23.2 million) upfront fee to MorphoSys, which was recorded
as research and development expense in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2018. No
additional payments were made in the year ended December 31, 2019. In August 2020, the project achieved the first milestone and the
Group paid US$1.0 million (equivalent to approximately RMB6.9 million) of milestone fees to Morphosys, which was recorded as
research and development expenses in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2020. In
January 2021, the project achieved the second milestone and the Group paid US$1.5 million (equivalent to approximately RMB9.7
million) of milestone fees to Morphosys and the related withholding tax of RMB1.1 million, which was recorded as research and
development expenses in the consolidated financial statements of comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2021. Due to the
uncertainty involved in meeting these development and commercialization based targets, the Group evaluated and concluded that the
remaining milestones are still not probable as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023.
Summarized financial information related to the above agreement is presented below:
Years Ended December 31,
Research and Development Expense
2023
2022
2021
Upfront Fees Milestones
—
—
— US$
—
—
1,500
Extension/ Termination of
agreements
Amortization of prepaid
research and
development
—
—
—
—
—
—
As of December 31,
Intangible asset balance
—
—
—
In June 2022, Morphosys entered into an equity participation agreement and license agreements to allow HIBio to develop and
commercialize MorphoSys’ felzartamab, an anti-CD38 antibody, and MOR210, an anti-C5aR1 antibody. Under the terms of the
agreements, HIBio will obtain exclusive rights to develop and commercialize felzartamab and MOR210 across all indications worldwide,
with the exception of Greater China for felzartamab and Greater China and South Korea for MOR210. Upon signing, MorphoSys also
receives an upfront payment of US$15 million for MOR210. Subject to the terms agreed in the C5aR Agreement, I-Mab is entitled to
share certain economics upon certain clinical milestones in the U.S. Accordingly, the Group received US$0.9 million from MorphoSys
and recorded RMB6.0 million in revenue in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2022. No
revenue from MorphoSys was recognized for the year ended December 31, 2023.
F-57
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
14. LICENSING AND COLLABORATION ARRANGEMENTS (CONTINUED)
A. In-Licensing Arrangements (continued)
Licensing Agreement with MorphoSys (continued)
Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations as disclosed in Notes 22 and as of the date of this annual
report, the Company is no longer a contracting party of the license and collaboration agreement with MorphoSys with respect to
MOR210/TJ210 and will no longer assume any rights, title, interest and obligations thereof.
Licensing Agreement with MacroGenics
In July 2019, the Group entered into a license and collaboration agreement with MacroGenics, Inc. for development and
commercialization of an Fc-optimized antibody known as enoblituzumab that targets B7-H3, including in combination with other agents,
such as the anti-PD-1 antibody known as MGA012, in the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan (“Greater
China”). Under this agreement, the Group obtained an exclusive, sublicenseable, royalty-bearing license to MacroGenics’ patents and
know-how to develop and commercialize the enoblituzumab product, and a combination regimen of enoblituzumab and MGA012, in
Greater China during the term of the agreement.
In exchange for these rights, in addition to certain financial consideration, the Group will grant to MacroGenics a royalty-free,
sublicenseable, license outside of Greater China, to the patents and know-how that are related to the enoblituzumab product or useful or
necessary for MacroGenics to develop or commercialize the enoblituzumab product or a product containing MGA012, and combinations
thereof. The license is (i) non-exclusive with respect to the enoblituzumab product, and (ii) exclusive with regard to MGA012.
Pursuant to the agreement, the Group paid an upfront fee of US$15.0 million (equivalent to approximately RMB104.4 million) to
MacroGenics, which was recorded as research and development expense in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss for the year
ended December 31, 2019. No additional payments were made in the year ended December 31, 2020. Under the terms of the agreement,
the Group also agreed to pay MacroGenics development milestone fees of up to US$75.0 million and regulatory milestones fees of up to
US$60.0 million, respectively, and tiered double-digit royalties (ranging from mid-teens to twenty percent) based on annual net sales in
the territories. In September 2021, the project achieved the first milestone and the Group paid around US$4.5 million (equivalent to
approximately RMB28.9 million) of milestone fees to MacroGenics, which was recorded as research and development expenses in the
consolidated statement of comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2021. No additional payments were made in the year
ended December 31, 2022.
The Group is responsible for all development costs in Greater China. MacroGenics is responsible for all development costs in the rest of
the world, except that the Group is responsible for 20% of the costs incurred in (i) activities supporting global clinical trials in which the
Group participates, (ii) certain CMC activities for material intended to be used in clinical trials in Greater China, and (iii) companion
diagnostic development and validation for indications being studied in Greater China.
Due to the uncertainty involved in meeting these development and commercialization based targets, the Group evaluated and concluded
that the remaining milestones are still not probable as of December 31, 2021.
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
14. LICENSING AND COLLABORATION ARRANGEMENTS (CONTINUED)
A. In-Licensing Arrangements (continued)
Licensing Agreement with MacroGenics (continued)
Summarized financial information related to the above agreement is presented below:
Year ended December 31,
Research and Development Expense
Upfront Fees
Milestones
—
—
— US$
—
—
4,484
Extension/ Termination of
agreements
Amortization of prepaid
research and
development
—
—
—
—
—
—
As of December 31,
Intangible asset balance
—
—
—
2023
2022
2021
In July 2022, due to an unexpected high incidence of fatal bleeding, MacroGenenics terminated a phase 2 study of enoblituzumab as a
combination therapy with PD-1 antibody or PD-1/LAG3 bispecific antibody in patients with head and neck cancers (NHSCC). The
Company has exercised its termination right under the license and collaboration agreement with MacroGenics by serving a termination
notice to MacroGenics on August 29, 2022. The termination took effect in February 2023.
Licensing Agreement with Ferring
In November 2016, the Company, as the licensee, entered into a license and sublicense agreement with Ferring International Center SA
(“Ferring”), with respect to Olamkicept (TJ301), a potential highly differentiated IL-6 blocker for ulcerative colitis and other
autoimmune diseases (the “Ferring In-licensing Agreement”). Under the Ferring Agreement, Ferring granted to I-Mab an exclusive
license to research, commercially develop, make, import, use, sell, dispose of, offer to sell or dispose of the licensed product in China
(including Hong Kong, Macau), Taiwan and Korea. In July 2018, the Company sub-licensed the above license to I-Mab Hong Kong.
In September 2020, I-Mab Hong Kong agreed to assign all rights and obligations/ownership of Target Pipelines (including TJ301) to I-
Mab Hangzhou (see Note 8 (a)). The Group entered into a sublicense agreement with I-Mab Hangzhou (“TJ301 Sublicense Agreement”),
under which the Group sublicensed to I-Mab Hangzhou an exclusive, sublicensable license to develop, manufacture and commercialize
olamkicept in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan and South Korea.
In the second half year of 2021, I-Mab Hangzhou achieved one of the development milestones by completing the Phase IIA study report
in China. Upon the achievement of the milestone, I-Mab Hangzhou made a milestone payment with the amount of US$3 million to I-
Mab Hong Kong. As I-Mab Hangzhou’s payment of US$3 million is just passthrough payment to I-Mab, and will be eventually paid to
Ferring, which does not have any financial impact to I-Mab. The Company recorded it as a payable to Ferring in the consolidated balance
sheets for the year ended December 31, 2021 . The US$3 million payable was settled in December 2022.
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
14. LICENSING AND COLLABORATION ARRANGEMENTS (CONTINUED)
A. In-Licensing Arrangements (continued)
Other In-Licensing Arrangements
In addition to the above arrangements, the Group has entered into other various in-licensing and collaboration agreements with third
party licensors to develop and commercialize drug candidates. Based on the terms of these agreements the Group is contingently
obligated to make additional material payments upon the achievement of certain contractually defined milestones. The Group recorded
US$1.1 million (equivalent to approximately RMB6.8 million) upfront payment and US$2.9 million (equivalent to approximately
RMB19.8 million) milestone payment as research and development expenses during the year ended December 31, 2021. The Group
recorded RMB0.5 million (US$0.07 million) upfront payment and RMB2.8 million (US$0.4 million) milestone payment as research and
development expenses during the year ended December 31, 2022. The Group recorded nil upfront payment and RMB1.5 million (US$0.2
million) milestone payment as research and development expenses during the year ended December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2023,
under the terms of the agreements, the licensors are eligible to receive from the Group up to an aggregate of approximately
US$173.0 million (equivalent to approximately RMB1,225.3 million) in milestone payments upon the achievement of contractually
specified development milestones and sales milestones, such as regulatory approval for the drug candidates, which may be before the
Group has commercialized the drug or received any revenue from sales of such drug candidate, which may never occur.
B.Out-Licensing and Collaboration Arrangements
Collaboration Agreement with ABL Bio
In July 2018, the Group and ABL Bio entered into a collaboration agreement (the “ABL Bio Collaboration”) whereby both parties agreed
to collaborate to develop three PD-L1 based bispecific antibodies by using ABL Bio’s proprietary BsAb technology and commercialize
them in their respective territories, which, collectively, include Greater China and South Korea, and other territories throughout the rest
of the world if both parties agree to do so in such other territories during the performance of the agreement.
At contract inception, both I-Mab and ABL Bio participate actively in the research and development activity. Also, the parties share the
risk of failure of the BsAb products and share the income of licensing, so this contract meet the criteria of the definition of a
collaborative arrangement, the Group categorized this agreement within the scope ASC 808. Prior to commercialization, the Group
recorded the share of the expenses incurred by the collaboration for the development of three PD-L1 based bispecific antibodies products
in research and development expense in the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. For the year ended December 31, 2021,
RMB27.9 million expenses were incurred by the Group and RMB20.7 million expenses were incurred by ABL Bio. Accordingly, the
Group recorded RMB24.3 million (50% cost sharing) of expenses in the Group’s consolidated statement of comprehensive loss for
the year ended December 31, 2021. For the year ended December 31, 2022, RMB63.1 million expenses were incurred by the Group and
RMB33.7 million expenses were incurred by ABL Bio. Accordingly, the Group recorded RMB48.4 million (50% cost sharing) of
expenses in the Group’s consolidated statement of comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2022. For the year ended
December 31, 2023, RMB54.1 million expenses were incurred by the Group and RMB49.6 million expenses were incurred by ABL Bio.
Accordingly, the Group recorded RMB51.8 million (50% cost sharing) of expenses in the Group’s consolidated statement of
comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2023.
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
14. LICENSING AND COLLABORATION ARRANGEMENTS (CONTINUED)
B. Out-Licensing and Collabration Arrangements (continued)
Collaboration Agreements with Tracon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (“Tracon”)
In November 2018, the Group entered into collaboration agreements with Tracon, under which both parties agreed to co-develop the
Group’s proprietary CD73 antibody, TJD5 (the “TJD5 Agreement”) and co-develop up to five BsAbs (the “BsAbs Agreement”). Both
agreements may be terminated by either party for the other party’s uncured material breach, bankruptcy or insolvency or for safety
reasons. In addition, the agreement in respect of TJD5 may be terminated by the Group: (i) for convenience within a certain period upon
completing different clinical stages subject to certain payments and royalties, based on the clinical stage, that would be owed to Tracon
upon the exercise of such termination for convenience; (ii) in the event that Tracon causes the Phase 1 study timeline to be delayed
beyond the agreed extension periods; or (iii) if the Group decides to end the development of the collaborative product prior to its first
commercial sale. Further, prior to the first commercial sale, Tracon may deem this agreement to be terminated by the Group if it
reasonably believes that the Group has discontinued all meaningful development of the collaborative product for at least 12 months and
certain other conditions are met. Additionally, in March 2019, the Group agreed with Tracon and F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd (“Roche”)
on a clinical supply agreement for Roche to supply atezolizumab for use in clinical studies under the collaboration agreement with
Tracon. As of December 31, 2019, no payments or royalties are due under this agreement. The Group has recorded US$0.02 million
(equivalent to approximately RMB0.11 million), nil, nil of research and development costs in the consolidated statement of
comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023.
In April 2020, Tracon issued a notice of dispute with respect to the TJD5 Agreement and the BsAbs Agreement. The disputes relating to
the TJD5 Agreement and the BsAbs Agreement are the subject of a binding arbitration proceeding under the Rules of Arbitration of the
International Chamber of Commerce before an arbitration tribunal.
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
14. LICENSING AND COLLABORATION ARRANGEMENTS (CONTINUED)
B. Out-Licensing and Collabration Arrangements (continued)
Collaboration Agreements with Tracon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (“Tracon”) (Continued)
In February 2021, the Group sent Tracon a notice to terminate the TJD5 Agreement, which would result in a prespecified termination fee
of US$9.0 million owing to Tracon. The Group accrued and recorded this termination fee of US$9.0 million (equivalent to approximately
RMB58.0 million) as administrative expenses in the consolidated financial statements of comprehensive loss for the year ended
December 31, 2021.
On April 25, 2023, the arbitration award determined that the TJD5 Agreement has been terminated for a pre-agreed termination fee of
US$9.0 million plus interest payable pursuant to the original agreement. For the year ended December 31, 2022, the Group accrued and
recorded the interest for the termination fee with an amount of US$0.6 million (equivalent to approximately RMB4.2 million) as
administrative expenses in the consolidated financial statements of comprehensive loss. The tribunal also confirmed the termination of
the BsAb Agreement. Based on the arbitration award, I-Mab will bear a portion of Tracon’s legal fees and costs, totaling approximately
US$13.5 million (equivalent to approximately RMB91.3 million), which was recorded as administrative expenses in the consolidated
financial statements of comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2022. The final amount paid to Tracon in July 2023 was
US$22.0 million (equivalent to approximately RMB155.2 million) based on both parties’ further negotiation. The variance between the
actual payment and accrued expenses of US$1.1 million (equivalent to approximately RMB8.0 million) was recorded as a deduction of
administrative expenses in the consolidated financial statements of comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Licensing Agreement with CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Limited (“CSPC”)
In December 2018, the Group entered into a product development agreement with CSPC. The Group granted to CSPC exclusive, non-
transferable, non-irrevocable and sublicensable rights in the PRC (excluding Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan) to develop and
commercialize TJ103 for treating type 2 diabetes.
CSPC is responsible for developing, obtaining market approval and commercializing the licensed products. The Group is responsible for
transferring the manufacturing technology of the licensed products to CSPC and assisting CSPC in the continued optimization of such
manufacturing technology thereafter.
In consideration of the license, CSPC agreed to pay the Group an upfront fee of RMB15.0 million and milestone payments in an
aggregate amount of RMB135.0 million conditioned upon achieving certain clinical development and regulatory approval milestones. In
addition, the Group is also entitled to royalties of up to low-double-digit percentages in respect of the total annual net sales of the
products after its commercialization in the PRC. On January 31, 2022, the Group and CSPC entered into an amendment to revise the
second milestone payment from RMB10 million to RMB8.5 million.
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
14. LICENSING AND COLLABORATION ARRANGEMENTS (CONTINUED)
B. Out-Licensing and Collabration Arrangements (continued)
Licensing Agreement with CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Limited (“CSPC”) (Continued)
The Group determined that this collaboration is more reflective of a vendor-customer relationship and therefore within the scope of ASC
606. Under this agreement, the only one performance obligation was to grant TJ103 license to CSPC. Considering that the achievements
of milestones are constrained such that the transaction price shall initially only include upfront payment and subsequently, once another
milestone was achieved (that means when uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is subsequently resolved), the additional
milestone payment shall be included in the total transaction price when it is no longer probable that a significant reversal of cumulative
revenue would occur in future periods. As of December 31, 2018, the amount received of RMB14.2 million (net of VAT) was recorded as
advance from customers in the consolidated balance sheet. In February 2019, an additional amount of RMB0.8 million (net of VAT) was
received, and the license was also approved by China intellectual property office in May 2019. The first milestone was achieved in
September 2019 and the amount of RMB15.0 million (net of VAT) was received according to the terms of the agreement. Accordingly,
RMB30.0 million was recognized as revenue in the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31,
2019. No additional revenue was recognized in the year ended December 31, 2020 as no further milestone has been achieved. The
second milestone was achieved in November 2021 and RMB8.5 million was recognized as revenue in the consolidated statements of
comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2021. No revenue was recognized in the consolidated statements of comprehensive
loss for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2023.
Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations as disclosed in Notes 22 and as of the date of this annual
report, the Company is no longer a contracting party of the product development agreement with CSPC with respect to TJ103 and will no
longer assume any rights, title, interest and obligations thereof.
Strategic Alliance Agreement with PT Kalbe Genexine Biologics (“KG Bio”)
In March 2020, the Group entered into a strategic partnership with Kalbe Genexine Biologics (“KG Bio”) to grant a right of first
negotiation for an exclusive license for the development and commercialization of two I-Mab-discovered product candidates:
uliledlimab, a highly differentiated anti-CD73 antibody in Phase 1 development for advanced solid tumors (“First Program”), and an I-
Mab product candidate (“Second Program”) to be agreed upon by both parties in certain regions. Through this agreement, both parties
intend to negotiate the terms that will be reflected in definitive agreements for each prospective program covered under this agreement.
If and when the Group and KG Bio enter into the definitive licensing agreement, the Group will be eligible to receive from KG Bio an
aggregate amount of up to approximately US$340 million, including an upfront payment and subsequent payments conditional upon
achieving certain development and commercial milestones. KG Bio will pay the Group tiered royalties in the low to mid-teen
percentages on net sales from certain regions. As the right of first negotiation has not been exercised and the definitive agreement has not
been entered into as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, no revenue was recognized during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022
and 2023.
In June 2023, the Company terminated the first negotiation agreement with KG Bio, pursuant to which, KG Bio no longer has a right of
first negotiation for the exclusive right to commercialize uliledlimab in southeast asia and other regions.
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
14. LICENSING AND COLLABORATION ARRANGEMENTS (CONTINUED)
B. Out-Licensing and Collabration Arrangements (continued)
Global Strategic Partnership with AbbVie
On September 3, 2020, the Group, through I-Mab Biopharma (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. and I-Mab Biopharma US Limited, each a wholly-
owned subsidiary of the Group, entered into a broad global strategic partnership with AbbVie.
Pursuant to this collaboration, the Group will grant AbbVie a global license, excluding Mainland China, Macau, and Hong Kong, to
develop and commercialize lemzoparlimab (also known as TJC4), an innovative anti-CD47 monoclonal antibody internally discovered
and developed by I-Mab for the treatment of multiple cancers. The Group will retain all rights to develop and commercialize
lemzoparlimab (as well as certain other compounds directed against CD47) in Mainland China, Macau, and Hong Kong. The Group is
also responsible for performing the development activities at its sole cost and expense as outlined in the initial development plan. Such
initial development activities consist of two studies, Study I and Study II. Study I is conducted in the United States evaluating
lemzoparlimab in combination with pembrolizumab or rituximab in patients with relapsed or refractory solid tumors and lymphoma.
Study II is conducted in Mainland China evaluating the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and preliminary
efficacy of lemzoparlimab in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). AbbVie will conduct
further global clinical trials (which the Group may elect to co-fund) to evaluate lemzoparlimab in multiple cancers.
Potential collaboration on future CD47-related therapeutic agents is also allowed for under this arrangement, including CD47-based
bispecific antibodies and combination therapies with lemzoparlimab and AbbVie’s venetoclax (Venclexta ®). Each party will have the
opportunity, subject to rights of first negotiation to further licenses, to explore certain of each other’s related CD47-antibody programs in
their respective territories.
A joint governance committee was established as set forth in the agreement, functioning as an oversight and governance mechanism.
Both parties will participate in the joint governance committee to facilitate decision-making during the terms of the collaborative
endeavor. Furthermore, the Group and AbbVie will share manufacturing responsibilities, with AbbVie having the opportunity to
manufacture supply outside of Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau and the Group being the primary manufacturer for supply for
Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau.
Upon the satisfaction of all the pre-effect date covenants, the collaborative agreement took effect on December 10, 2020, on which date
the Group was entitled to a non-refundable upfront payment of US$180 million. In addition, the Group has received milestone payment
of US$20 million from AbbVie and is eligible to receive up to US$1.74 billion in further success-based development, regulatory and
sales milestone payments for lemzoparlimab, of which US$840 million are based on clinical development and regulatory approval
milestones, with the remainder based on commercial milestones. Upon commercialization of lemzoparlimab, AbbVie will also pay tiered
royalties from low-to-mid teen double-digit percentages on global net sales outside of Mainland China, Macau, and Hong Kong.
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
14. LICENSING AND COLLABORATION ARRANGEMENTS (CONTINUED)
B. Out-Licensing and Collabration Arrangements (continued)
Global Strategic Partnership with AbbVie (continued)
The Group identified three performance obligations: (1) grant of lemzoparlimab license upon the effective date, (2) delivering the Study I
initial development services, and (3) delivering the Study II initial development services. The total transaction price under the agreement
for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2021 is US$250 million consisting of (i) the upfront payment of US$180 million upon the
effective date, (ii) the first milestone payment of US$20 million upon the achievement of the first milestone event in late
December 2020, and (iii) the second milestone payment of US$50 million as of December 31, 2020 and 2021 as the Group deemed that
the achievement of the second milestone event is probable as of December 31, 2020 and 2021 that a significant reversal of revenue
would not occur. The achievements of the remaining development and regulatory based milestone events are constrained as of
December 31, 2020 and 2021, and will be included in the transaction price when uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is
subsequently resolved. Sales-based milestones and royalties will be recognized when the subsequent sales occur.
As of December 31, 2020 and 2021, the non-constrained consideration of US$250 million is then allocated to the three performance
obligations based on the relative stand-alone selling price. For the grant of lemzoparlimab license, the Group adopted an income
approach based on key assumptions and several factors including, but not limited to estimated market demand, stand-alone selling price
by making reference to market comparable, development timeline, regulatory risks, future revenue potential and discount rate. The
allocated price is US$228.8 million. The entire US$228.8 million (equivalent to approximately RMB1,502.9 million) was recognized as
revenue at the point of the license transfer at the effective date. For the Study I and Study II initial development services, a cost-plus
margin approach is utilized. The allocated price to Study I and Study II is US$11.0 million and US$10.2 million respectively. These two
performance obligations are determined to be satisfied over time. The Group uses a cost-to-cost input method to measure progress as that
method best depicts the transfer of the two performance obligations under the agreement. As of December 31, 2020, the
cumulative percentages complete in the cost-to-cost input method for Study I and Study II were estimated to approximate 17% and 41%
respectively. As a result, US$1.8 million (equivalent to approximately RMB12.0 million) and US$4.2 million (equivalent to
approximately RMB27.8 million) were recognized as revenue for the year ended December 31, 2020 in the consolidated statement of
comprehensive income for Study I and Study II respectively, resulting in a contract asset of US$34.8 million (RMB 227.4 million) for
this agreement as of December 31, 2020 in the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2020, the upfront payment of
US$180 million was received by the Group. The 1st milestone payment of US$20 million was subsequently collected by the Group in
March 2021. As of December 31, 2021, the cumulative percentages complete in the cost-to-cost input method for Study I and Study II
were estimated to approximate 53% and 51% respectively. As a result, US$4.0 million (equivalent to approximately RMB25.6 million)
and US$0.9 million (equivalent to approximately RMB6.0 million) were recognized as revenue for the year ended December 31, 2021 in
the consolidated financial statements of comprehensive loss for Study I and Study II respectively, resulting in an addition of contract
asset of US$4.9 million (equivalent to approximately RMB31.6 million) for this agreement, and the total contract asset related to this
agreement was US$39.7 million (RMB 253.8 million) as of December 31, 2021.
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
14. LICENSING AND COLLABORATION ARRANGEMENTS (CONTINUED)
B. Out-Licensing and Collabration Arrangements (continued)
Global Strategic Partnership with AbbVie (continued)
In August 2022, the Group and AbbVie entered into an amendment to the original license and collaboration agreement dated September
3, 2020. The Group will be eligible to receive, and AbbVie will pay, up to US$1.295 billion in the development, regulatory, and sales
milestone payments, and the tiered royalties at rates from mid-to-high single-digit percentages on global net sales outside of Greater
China for certain new anti-CD47 antibodies currently in development, or the original milestone payments and tiered royalties for other
licensed products. The Group has the exclusive right to develop and commercialize all licensed products under the agreement in Greater
China. AbbVie discontinued the global Phase 1b study of lemzoparlimab combination therapy with AZA and venetoclax in patients with
MDS and acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and a Phase 1b study of lemzoparlimab in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma.
As a result of the amendment to the original collaboration arrangement in the second half of 2022, the Group estimated the amount of
consideration to which it will be entitled to under the amended agreement and determined the probability of achieving the second
milestone payment of US$50 million is lowered. The Group concluded it is not probable that a significant reversal of revenue will not
occur once the uncertainty associated with the milestone payment is resolved, the variable consideration of US$50 million associated
with the second milestone is excluded from the transaction price at the amendment date. The consideration of US$200 million was re-
allocated to the three performance obligations based on the relative stand-alone selling price at the amendment date. The allocated price
for the grant of lemzoparlimab license, Study I and Study II is US183.0 million, US$8.8 million and US$ 8.2 million, respectively. As of
the amendment date, based on the updated transaction price and the progress of each performance obligation, the Group recorded a
cumulative catch-up adjustment which resulted in a reduction of revenue of US$48.0 million (equivalent to RMB 314.2 million), a
reversal of contract assets of US$39.8 million, and a recognition of contract liabilities of US$8.2 million in the second half of 2022.
Offsetting this amount, the revenue of US$5.8 million (equivalent to RMB 39.9 million) was recorded for the ongoing Study I and Study
II initial development services for the year ended December 31, 2022. As of December 31, 2022, the cumulative percentages complete in
the cost-to-cost input method for Study I and Study II were estimated to be approximate 84% and 88%, respectively. The accumulated
revenue recognized for Study I and Study II was US$7.4 million and US$7.2 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2022. As of
December 31, 2022, the balance of contract assets related to the collaboration arrangement with AbbVie was nil, while the balance of
contract liabilities was US$2.4 million (RMB16.6 million).
On September 21, 2023, the Group received a notice from AbbVie, terminating the aforementioned license and collaboration agreement.
The termination of the license and collaboration agreement in its entirety by AbbVie is based on the previous program discontinuation
and AbbVie’s strategic decision. The termination took effect on November 20, 2023. The termination did not affect the upfront and
milestone payments of $200 million that the Group already received from AbbVie. As a result, contract liabilities of US$2.4 million
(equivalent to approximately RMB16.9 million) related to Study I and Study II were recognized as revenue for the year ended December
31, 2023.
Strategic collaboration with Jumpcan
On November 10, 2021, the Group entered into a strategic collaboration agreement (the “Jumpcan Agreement”) with Jumpcan
Pharmaceutical Group (“Jumpcan”), a China pharmaceutical company specialized in and committed to pediatric medicines, for the
development, manufacturing and commercialization of I-Mab’s highly differentiated long-acting recombinant human growth hormone,
eftansomatropin alfa (the “TJ101” and “Licensed Product”) in mainland China (the “Territory”).
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
14. LICENSING AND COLLABORATION ARRANGEMENTS (CONTINUED)
B. Out-Licensing and Collabration Arrangements (continued)
Strategic collaboration with Jumpcan (continued)
Under the collaboration agreement, I-Mab will continue to lead the ongoing registrational Phase 3 clinical trial of eftansomatropin alfa in
pediatric growth hormone deficiency (PGHD). The two companies will share costs of manufacturing tech transfer, process optimization
and new formulation development. I-Mab will be the marketing authorization holder (MAH) of the product and supply the product at
agreed cost to Jumpcan. Jumpcan will be responsible for commercializing the product and developing new indications in collaboration
with I-Mab in mainland China. I-Mab will provide clinical, manufacturing and academic support.
According to the terms of the collaboration agreement, Jumpcan will make an upfront payment of RMB 224 million to I-Mab and, upon
achievement of development, registration and sales milestones, certain milestone payments of up to RMB 1.792 billion, making the non-
royalty payments a total of up to RMB 2.016 billion. In addition, I-Mab and Jumpcan will share profits generated from
commercialization of the product in mainland China on a 50/50 basis, pursuant to which I-Mab will be entitled to receive tiered low
double-digit royalties on net sales.
The Group performed assessment and concluded that all the promise identified, including the grant of the license to Jumpcan, Phase III
clinical trial in PGHD and CMC development under the Jumpcan Agreement have been bundled into a single performance obligation.
The amounts of the transaction price allocable to this performance obligation are deferred until the control of the manufactured
commercial drug product has begun to transfer to Jumpcan. For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Group received the upfront fee of
RMB224 million from Jumpcan and recorded it as contract liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2021.
According to the terms of the collaboration agreement, Jumpcan shall undertake to bear 50% proportion of the CMC cost occurred by I-
Mab after the effective date of this agreement. For the year ended December 31, 2022 and 2023, the Group received the payment of
RMB22.0 million and from RMB45.2 million Jumpcan related to the cost sharing and recorded it as contract liabilities in the
consolidated balance sheet, respectively.
Following the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations as disclosed in Notes 22 and as of the date of this annual
report, the Company has not completed the assignment of the strategic collaboration agreement with Jumpcan with respect to
eftansomatropin alfa (TJ101).
Cell Line Collaboration with Ferring
In May 2022, the Group entered into an amended and restated license and sublicense agreement and a cell line and manufacturing
collaboration agreement (“Cell Line Collaboration Agreement”) with Ferring, under which the Group granted to Ferring an exclusive,
perpetual and transferrable sublicense, with the right to grant further sublicenses to sublicensees, under all of the intellectual properties
licensed to I-Mab by I-Mab’s business partner to research, develop, make, import, use and sell olamkicept as expressed by or produced
by cell lines created by I-Mab’s business partner and its affiliates, in any human indications in the territories other than Greater China and
Korea. The Group also granted to Ferring an exclusive, perpetual and royalty-free license, with right of sublicense to sublicensees, under
the intellectual property owned or controlled by I-Mab which relates to cell lines created by I-Mab’s business partner and its affiliates, for
the research, development, making, using or selling of olamkicept, including prespecified patents and know-how and improvements
thereto. As of December 31, 2022, Ferring paid to the Group the milestone payment as specified in the Cell Line Collaboration
Agreement. This payment was recorded in revenue in the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss for the year ended December
31, 2022. Ferring also agreed to make milestone payments to us, conditioned on the achievement of certain development milestones in
Ferring’s licensed territory.
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
14. LICENSING AND COLLABORATION ARRANGEMENTS (CONTINUED)
B. Out-Licensing and Collabration Arrangements (continued)
Cell Line Collaboration with Ferring (continued)
In May 2022, the Group entered into a supplementary sublicensing agreement to the TJ301 Sublicense Agreement (“TJ301 Supplemental
Sublicense Agreement”) with I-Mab Hangzhou. Pursuant to the TJ301 Supplemental Sublicense Agreement, I-Mab Hong Kong should
pay I-Mab Hangzhou US$2.75 million (equivalent to approximately RMB18.6 million) to reimburse the effort and contribution from I-
Mab Hangzhou in the development of Wuxi Cell Line, which was recorded as the reduction of revenue in the consolidated financial
statements of comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Breakdown of licensing and collaboration revenue
The breakdown of licensing and collaboration revenue was as follows:
Recognition in the year
Reduction in the year
Revenues from AbbVie
Revenues from other partners
15. OTHER INCOME (EXPENSES), NET
2021
RMB
31,615
—
31,615
8,500
40,115
Year Ended December 31,
2022
RMB
39,891
(314,181)
(274,290)
24,625
(249,665)
RMB
16,814
—
16,814
—
16,814
2023
US$(Note 2.5)
2,368
—
2,368
—
2,368
The following table summarizes other income (expenses), net recognized for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023:
Income of incentive payment from depository bank
Fair value change of short-term and other investments
Fair value change of put right liabilities
Net foreign exchange gains (losses)
Subsidy income (1)
Losses in deconsolidation of a subsidiary
Others
2021
RMB
2,395
30,360
16,628
25,373
9,216
—
(810)
83,162
Year Ended December 31
2022
RMB
RMB
2023
2,821
(13,549)
34,260
(175,391)
25,470
—
(198)
(126,587)
8,569
26,461
(7,888)
(60,704)
5,354
(7,905)
(1,996)
(38,109)
US$
(Note 2.5)
1,207
3,727
(1,111)
(8,550)
754
(1,113)
(282)
(5,368)
(1) For the year ended December 31, 2022, subsidy income consists primarily of the government grant of RMB18.9 million. The
government grant was granted by the project management office of Shanghai Zhangjiang Science City and the management
committee of Shanghai Free Trade Zone to support the research and development activities in the local region.
F-68
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
16. NET LOSS PER SHARE
Basic and diluted net loss per share for each of the periods presented are calculated as follows:
Numerator:
Net loss attributable to I-Mab
Net loss attributable to ordinary shareholders
Denominator:
Denominator for basic calculation-weighted average number of common
2021
RMB
Year Ended December 31
2023
2022
RMB
RMB
US$ (Note 2.5)
(in thousands, except for share and per share data)
(2,331,541)
(2,331,541)
(2,507,317)
(2,507,317)
(1,465,694)
(1,465,694)
(206,439)
(206,439)
shares outstanding
Denominator for diluted loss per share calculation
174,707,055 189,787,292 191,423,850 191,423,850
174,707,055 189,787,292 191,423,850 191,423,850
Net loss per share - basic and diluted
(13.35)
(13.21)
(7.66)
(1.08)
The effects of all outstanding restricted share units, certain stock options and warrants have been excluded from the computation of
diluted loss per share for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 as their effects would be anti-dilutive. The potentially
dilutive securities that have not been included in the calculation of diluted net loss per share as their inclusion would be anti-dilutive are
as follows:
Restricted share units
Stock options
Warrants
17. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
2021
3,150,881
14,584,833
648,359
Year Ended December 31
2022
484,395
2,939,322
—
2023
1,543,009
617,707
—
Full time employees of the Group in the PRC participate in a government mandated defined contribution plan, pursuant to which certain
pension benefits, medical care, employee housing fund and other welfare benefits are provided to the employees. Chinese labor
regulations require that the PRC subsidiaries of the Group make contributions to the government for these benefits based on certain
percentage of the employees’ salaries, up to a maximum amount specified by the government. The Group has no legal obligation for the
benefits beyond the contribution made. The total amounts charged to the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss for such
employee benefits amounted to approximately RMB26,426, RMB35,332 and RMB26,401 for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022
and 2023, respectively.
F-69
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
18. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Contingencies
The Group is a party to or an assignee of license and collaboration agreements that may require it to make future payments relating to
milestone fees and royalties on future sales of licensed products (see Note 14). In April 2020, Tracon issued a notice of dispute with
respect to the TJD5 Agreement and the BsAbs Agreement. The disputes relating to the TJD5 Agreement and the BsAbs Agreement are
the subject of a binding arbitration proceeding under the Rules of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce before an
arbitration tribunal. In April 2023, the Group received the result of the arbitration, which is further discussed in Note 14.
On February 6, 2024, the Company entered into definitive agreements with I-Mab Hangzhou and its investors which provide that the
Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, I-Mab Hong Kong, will transfer the equity interests it holds in I-Mab Hangzhou to certain
participating shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou in exchange for extinguishment of the existing repurchase obligations owed by I-Mab
Hong Kong to those shareholders.
In connection with the divestiture of the Greater China assets and business operations, the Company has transferred the equity interests it
held in I-Mab Hangzhou to certain participating shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou in exchange for extinguishment of the existing
repurchase obligations owed by I-Mab Hong Kong to those shareholders in the amount of approximately US$183 million. However, the
non-participating shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou have initiated legal proceedings against I-Mab Hong Kong and the Company in
connection with the aforementioned transaction. On January 31, 2024, the non-participating shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou,
commenced arbitration against I-Mab Hong Kong before China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission Zhejiang
Sub-Commission. These non-participating shareholders seek monetary relief amounting to US$17.36 million as of January 29, 2024 in
total and an order that I-Mab Hong Kong pay all arbitration fees and property preservation fees incurred by them. The arbitration
proceeding before the Zhejiang arbitration sub-commission is still pending. The Company has not yet received the notice of hearing and
is currently unable to predict the outcome of the arbitration.
As of December 31, 2023, the Group did not record any liabilities for the arbitration. Information available prior to issuance of the
financial statements did not indicate that it is probable that a liability had been incurred at the date of the financial statements and the
Company is also unable to reasonably estimate the range of any liability or possible loss, if any.
The Group did not have significant long-term obligations, or guarantees as of December 31, 2022 and 2023.
Capital commitments
The capital expenditures related to property, equipment and software contracted for as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 but not
recognized in the Group’s consolidated financial statements were RMB4,392 and nil, respectively.
F-70
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
19. RELATED PARTY BALANCES AND TRANSACTIONS
The table below sets forth the major related parties and their relationships with the Group for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022
and 2023:
Name of related parties
Relationship with the Group
CMAB Biopharma (Suzhou) Inc.
Jiangsu Taslydiyi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
I-Mab Biopharma (Hangzhou) Co., Limited
Controlled by the ultimate controlling party of a principal
shareholder of the Group before April 30, 2021
Controlled by the ultimate controlling party of a principal
shareholder of the Group before December 9, 2021
Subsidiary of the Group before September 15, 2020; Affiliate of the
Group after September 15, 2020
Details of related party balances as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 are as follows:
Prepayments and other receivables
I-Mab Hangzhou
Accruals and other payables
I-Mab Hangzhou
As of December 31,
2022
RMB
8,231
RMB
14,208
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
2,001
As of December 31,
2022
RMB
64,782
RMB
35,058
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
4,938
Details of related party transactions for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 are as follows:
Receipt of CRO and CMC services - recognized in research and development expenses
For the year ended December 31,
Jiangsu Taslydiyi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
I-Mab Hangzhou
Revenue sharing - recognized as deduction of revenue
I-Mab Hangzhou (Note 14)
2021
RMB
2,697
2,465
2022
RMB
—
84,673
RMB
—
96,359
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
—
13,572
For the year ended December 31,
2021
RMB
—
2022
RMB
18,583
RMB
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
—
—
F-71
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
19. RELATED PARTY BALANCES AND TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED)
Expenses paid on behalf of an affiliate
I-Mab Hangzhou
Provision of FTE and other services - recognized in other income
I-Mab Hangzhou
Amounts received on behalf of an affiliate
I-Mab Hangzhou
Amounts received related to the sublicense agreement
I-Mab Hangzhou (Note 14)
Amounts paid by an affiliate on behalf of the Group
I-Mab Hangzhou
20. CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK
For the year ended December 31,
2021
RMB
17,649
2022
RMB
—
RMB
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
—
—
For the year ended December 31,
2021
RMB
11,691
2022
RMB
—
RMB
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
—
—
For the year ended December 31,
2021
RMB
281
2022
RMB
—
RMB
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
—
—
For the year ended December 31,
2021
RMB
19,102
2022
RMB
—
RMB
2023
US$ (Note 2.5)
—
—
For the year ended December 31,
2021
RMB
25,448
2022
RMB
837
2023
RMB
US$ (Note 2.5)
10
69
Financial instruments that are potentially subject to significant concentration of credit risk consist of cash and cash equivalents, restricted
cash, short-term investments, and other receivables. The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments
represent the maximum amount of loss due to credit risk. As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, all of the Group’s cash and cash
equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments were held by major financial institutions located in the PRC and international
financial institutions outside of the PRC which management believes are of high credit quality and continually monitors the credit
worthiness of these financial institutions. With respect to the other receivables, the Group performs on-going credit evaluations of the
financial condition of its customers and counterparties.
F-72
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
21. RESTRICTED NET ASSETS
The Group’s ability to pay dividends may depend on the Group receiving distributions of funds from its PRC subsidiary. Relevant PRC
statutory laws and regulations permit payments of dividends by the Group’s PRC subsidiary only out of its retained earnings, if any, as
determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. The results of operations reflected in the consolidated
financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP differ from those reflected in the statutory financial statements of the
Group’s PRC subsidiary.
In accordance with the Company law of the PRC, a domestic enterprise is required to provide statutory reserves of at least 10% of its
annual after-tax profit until such reserve has reached 50% of its respective registered capital based on the enterprise’s PRC statutory
accounts. A domestic enterprise is also required to provide discretionary surplus reserve, at the discretion of the Board of Directors, from
the profits determined in accordance with the enterprise’s PRC statutory accounts. The aforementioned reserves can only be used for
specific purposes and are not distributable as cash dividends. The Group’s PRC subsidiary was established as domestic invested
enterprise and therefore is subject to the above mentioned restrictions on distributable profits.
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, no appropriation to statutory reserves was made because the PRC subsidiary
had substantial losses during such periods.
As a result of these PRC laws and regulations subject to the limit discussed above that require annual appropriations of 10% of after-tax
income to be set aside, prior to payment of dividends, as general reserve fund, the Group’s PRC subsidiary is restricted in their ability to
transfer a portion of their net assets to the Group.
Foreign exchange and other regulations in the PRC further restrict the Company’s PRC subsidiaries from transferring funds to the
Company in the form of dividends, loans and advances.
As of December 31, 2023, the net asset base for purposes of calculating the proportionate share of restricted net assets of consolidated
subsidiaries should be RMB0.1 million, while the Group has a consolidated shareholders’ equity. Therefore, as the restricted net assets of
consolidated subsidiaries do not exceed 25% of consolidated net assets as of the most recent fiscal year end, the Group is not required to
provide parent company financial information.
F-73
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I-MAB
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)
22. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On February 6, 2024, the Group entered into definitive agreements with I-Mab Hangzhou and its investors. Pursuant to the definitive
agreements, the Group will transfer 100% of the outstanding equity interest in I-Mab Shanghai, a wholly owned subsidiary of the
Company that operates the Company’s business in China to I-Mab Hangzhou for an aggregate consideration of the RMB equivalent of
up to US$80 million, contingent on the I-Mab Hangzhou’s achievement of certain future regulatory and sales-based milestone events.
The Group also retains a right of first negotiation outside of Greater China related to three future investigational new drug candidates.
This transaction was closed on April 2, 2024. The definitive agreements also provide that the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, I-
Mab Hong Kong, will transfer the equity interests it holds in I-Mab Hangzhou to certain participating shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou
in exchange for extinguishment of the existing repurchase obligations owed by I-Mab Hong Kong to those shareholders (Note 8) in the
amount of approximately US$183 million. After which the total remaining amount of potential repurchase obligations owed by the
Group to the non-participating shareholders of I-Mab Hangzhou upon the closing of the transaction is expected to range from US$30
million to US$35 million, an amount that includes actual or potential claims in legal proceedings by the non-participating shareholders
against I-Mab Hong Kong and the Company in connection with the aforementioned transaction. Meanwhile, the Group participated in
the Series C fundraising of I-Mab Hangzhou for an equity interest subscription of US$19 million in cash.
F-74
List of Principal Subsidiaries of I-MAB
EXHIBIT 8.1
Name of Subsidiary
I-Mab Biopharma Hong Kong Limited
I-Mab Biopharma US Ltd.
I-Mab Bio-tech (Tianjin) Co., Ltd.
Place of Incorporation
Hong Kong
United States
People’s Republic of China
EXHIBIT 12.1
Certification by the Principal Executive Officer
Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
I, Raj Kannan, certify that:
1.
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of I-Mab (the “Company”);
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary
to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to
the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all
material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the Company as of, and for, the periods presented in
this report;
4. The Company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange
Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the Company and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our
supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the Company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known
to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed
under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of
financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions
about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on
such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period
covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal
control over financial reporting; and
5. The Company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial
reporting, to the Company’s auditors and the audit committee of the Company’s board of directors (or persons performing the
equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which
are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information;
and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Company’s
internal control over financial reporting.
Date: April 30, 2024
/s/ Raj Kannan
By:
Name: Raj Kannan
Title: Director and Chief Executive Officer
EXHIBIT 12.2
Certification by the Principal Financial Officer
Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
I, Joseph Skelton, certify that:
1.
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of I-Mab (the “Company”);
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary
to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to
the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all
material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the Company as of, and for, the periods presented in
this report;
4. The Company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange
Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the Company and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our
supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the Company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known
to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed
under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of
financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions
about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on
such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period
covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal
control over financial reporting; and
5. The Company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial
reporting, to the Company’s auditors and the audit committee of the Company’s board of directors (or persons performing the
equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which
are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information;
and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Company’s
internal control over financial reporting.
Date: April 30, 2024
/s/ Joseph Skelton
By:
Name: Joseph Skelton
Title: Chief Financial Officer
Certification by the Principal Executive Officer
Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
EXHIBIT 13.1
In connection with the Annual Report of I-Mab (the “Company”) on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023 as filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Raj Kannan, Chief Executive Officer of the
Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to my
knowledge:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations
of the Company.
Date: April 30, 2024
/s/ Raj Kannan
By:
Name: Raj Kannan
Title: Director and Chief Executive Officer
Certification by the Principal Financial Officer
Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
EXHIBIT 13.2
In connection with the Annual Report of I-Mab (the “Company”) on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023 as filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Joseph Skelton, Chief Financial Officer of the
Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to my
knowledge:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations
of the Company.
Date: April 30, 2024
/s/ Joseph Skelton
By:
Name: Joseph Skelton
Title: Chief Financial Officer
Exhibit 15.1
26/F HKRI Centre One, HKRI Taikoo Hui,
288 Shimen Road (No. 1),
Shanghai 200041, P.R. China
T: (86-21) 5298-5488
F: (86-21) 5298-5492
junhesh@junhe.com
April 30, 2024
I-Mab
2440 Research Boulevard, Suite 400
Rockville, MD 20850
United States
Dear Sir/Madam:
We hereby consent to the reference of our name under the headings “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to
Our Financial Position and Need for Additional Capital” and “Item 10. Additional Information—E. Taxation—PRC Taxation” in
I-Mab’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023 (the “Annual Report”), which will be filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on the date hereof, and further consent to the incorporation by reference into
the Registration Statements on Form S-8 (No. 333-239871, No. 333-256603 and No. 333-265684) of I-Mab of the summary of our
opinions under the headings “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Financial Position and Need for
Additional Capital” and “Item 10. Additional Information—E. Taxation—PRC Taxation” in the Annual Report. We also consent
to the filing of this consent letter with the SEC as an exhibit to the Annual Report.
In giving such consent, we do not thereby admit that we come within the category of persons whose consent is required under
Section 7 of the Securities Act of 1933, or under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, in each case, as amended, or the regulations
promulgated thereunder.
Very truly yours,
/s/ JunHe LLP
JunHe LLP
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Form S-8 (No. 333-239871, No. 333-256603 and
No. 333-265684) of I-Mab of our report dated April 30, 2024 relating to the financial statements and the effectiveness of internal control
over financial reporting, which appears in this Form 20-F.
Exhibit 15.2
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers Zhong Tian LLP
Shanghai, the People’s Republic of China
April 30, 2024
Exhibit 15.3
Harney Westwood & Riegels
3501 The Center
99 Queen’s Road Central
Hong Kong
Tel: +852 5806 7800
Fax: +852 5806 7810
057369.0005
Date: 30 April 2024
I-Mab 天境生物
2440 Research Boulevard, Suite 400
Rockville, MD 20850
United States
Dear Sir or Madam
I-Mab 天境生物 (the Company)
We are attorneys-at-law qualified to practice in the Cayman Islands and have acted as Cayman Islands legal advisers to the
Company in connection with the filing by the Company with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the
SEC) of an annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2023 (the Form 20-F).
We hereby consent to the reference of our name under the headings “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—General
Risks Related to Our ADSs,” “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects–Taxation–Cayman Islands” and “Item
10. Additional Information—E. Taxation—Cayman Islands” in the Form 20-F and further consent to the incorporation by
reference of the summary of our opinion under those headings into the Company’s Registration Statements on Form S-8
(No. 333-239871, No. 333-256603 and No. 333-265684).
We consent to the filing with the SEC of this consent letter as an exhibit to the Form 20-F. In giving such consent, we do not
thereby admit that we come within the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities Act
of 1933, or under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, in each case, as amended, or the regulations promulgated thereunder.
[signature page to follow]
The British Virgin Islands is Harneys Hong Kong office’s main jurisdiction of practice.
Jersey legal services are provided through a referral arrangement with Harneys (Jersey) which is an
independently owned and controlled Jersey law firm.
Resident Partners: A Au | M Chu | JP Engwirda | Y Fan | P Kay | MW Kwok | IN Mann
R Ng | ATC Ridgers | PJ Sephton
Anguilla | Bermuda | British Virgin Islands | Cayman Islands
Cyprus | Hong Kong | Jersey | London | Luxembourg
Montevideo | São Paulo | Shanghai | Singapore
www.harneys.com
Yours faithfully
/s/ Harney Westwood & Riegels
Harney Westwood & Riegels
I-MAB
CLAWBACK POLICY
Exhibit 97.1
The Compensation Committee (the “Committee”) of the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of I-Mab (the
“Company”) believes that it is appropriate for the Company to adopt this Clawback Policy (the “Policy”) to be
applied to the Executive Officers of the Company and adopts this Policy to be effective as of the Effective Date.
1. Definitions
For purposes of this Policy, the following definitions shall apply:
a) “Company Group” means the Company and each of its subsidiaries or consolidated affiliated entities,
as applicable.
b) “Covered Compensation” means any Incentive-Based Compensation granted, vested or paid to a
person who served as an Executive Officer at any time during the performance period for the
Incentive-Based Compensation and that was Received (i) on or after October 2, 2023 (the effective
date of the Nasdaq listing standards), (ii) after the person became an Executive Officer, and (iii) at a
time that the Company had a class of securities listed on a national securities exchange or a national
securities association such as Nasdaq.
c) “Effective Date” means December 1, 2023.
d) “Erroneously Awarded Compensation” means the amount of Covered Compensation granted, vested or
paid to a person during the fiscal period when the applicable Financial Reporting Measure relating to
such Covered Compensation was attained that exceeds the amount of Covered Compensation that
otherwise would have been granted, vested or paid to the person had such amount been determined
based on the applicable Restatement, computed without regard to any taxes paid (i.e., on a pre-tax
basis). For Covered Compensation based on stock price or total shareholder return, where the amount
of Erroneously Awarded Compensation is not subject to mathematical recalculation directly from the
information in a Restatement, the Committee will determine the amount of such Covered
Compensation that constitutes Erroneously Awarded Compensation, if any, based on a reasonable
estimate of the effect of the Restatement on the stock price or total shareholder return upon which the
Covered Compensation was granted, vested or paid and the Committee shall maintain documentation
of such determination and provide such documentation to Nasdaq.
e) “Exchange Act” means the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
f) “Executive Officer” means the Company’s president, principal financial officer, principal accounting
officer (or if there is no such accounting officer, the controller), any vice-president of the Company in
charge of a principal business unit, division, or function (such as sales, administration, or finance), any
other officer who performs a policy-making function, or any other person (whether or not an officer or
employee of the Company) who performs
similar policy-making functions for the Company. “Policy-making function” does not include policy-
making functions that are not significant. Both current and former Executive Officers are subject to the
Policy in accordance with its terms.
g) “Financial Reporting Measure” means (i) any measure that is determined and presented in accordance
with the accounting principles used in preparing the Company’s financial statements, and any
measures derived wholly or in part from such measures and may consist of IFRS/U.S. GAAP or non-
IFRS/non-U.S. GAAP financial measures (as defined under Regulation G of the Exchange Act and
Item 10 of Regulation S-K under the Exchange Act), (ii) stock price or (iii) total shareholder return.
Financial Reporting Measures need not be presented within the Company’s financial statements or
included in a filing with the SEC.
h) “Home Country” means the Company’s jurisdiction of incorporation, i.e., the Cayman Islands.
i)
j)
“Incentive-Based Compensation” means any compensation that is granted, earned or vested based
wholly or in part upon the attainment of a Financial Reporting Measure.
“Lookback Period” means the three completed fiscal years (plus any transition period of less than nine
months that is within or immediately following the three completed fiscal years and that results from a
change in the Company’s fiscal year) immediately preceding the date on which the Company is
required to prepare a Restatement for a given reporting period, with such date being the earlier of: (i)
the date the Board, a committee of the Board, or the officer or officers of the Company authorized to
take such action if Board action is not required, concludes, or reasonably should have concluded, that
the Company is required to prepare a Restatement, or (ii) the date a court, regulator or other legally
authorized body directs the Company to prepare a Restatement. Recovery of any Erroneously Awarded
Compensation under the Policy is not dependent on whether or when the Restatement is actually filed.
k) “Nasdaq” means the Nasdaq Stock Market.
l)
“Received”: Incentive-Based Compensation is deemed “Received” in the Company’s fiscal period
during which the Financial Reporting Measure specified in or otherwise relating to the Incentive-Based
Compensation award is attained, even if the grant, vesting or payment of the Incentive-Based
Compensation occurs after the end of that period.
m) “Restatement” means a required accounting restatement of any Company financial statement due to the
material noncompliance of the Company with any financial reporting requirement under the securities
laws, including (i) to correct an error in previously issued financial statements that is material to the
previously issued financial statements (commonly referred to as a “Big R” restatement) or (ii) to
correct an error in previously issued financial statements that is not material to the previously issued
financial statements but that would result in a material misstatement if the error were corrected in the
current period or left uncorrected in the current period (commonly referred to as a “little r”
restatement). Changes to the Company’s financial statements that do not represent error corrections
under the then-current relevant accounting standards will not constitute Restatements. Recovery of any
Erroneously Awarded Compensation under the Policy is not dependent on fraud or misconduct by any
person in connection with the Restatement.
n) “SEC” means the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
2. Recovery of Erroneously Awarded Compensation
In the event of a Restatement, any Erroneously Awarded Compensation Received during the Lookback Period
prior to the Restatement (a) that is then-outstanding but has not yet been paid shall be automatically and
immediately forfeited and (b) that has been paid to any person shall be subject to reasonably prompt repayment to
the Company Group in accordance with Section 3 of this Policy. The Committee must pursue (and shall not have
the discretion to waive) the forfeiture and/or repayment of such Erroneously Awarded Compensation in
accordance with Section 3 of this Policy, except as provided below.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee (or, if the Committee is not a committee of the Board
responsible for the Company’s executive compensation decisions and composed entirely of independent directors,
a majority of the independent directors serving on the Board) may determine not to pursue the forfeiture and/or
recovery of Erroneously Awarded Compensation from any person if the Committee determines that such
forfeiture and/or recovery would be impracticable due to any of the following circumstances: (i) the direct
expense paid to a third party (for example, reasonable legal expenses and consulting fees) to assist in enforcing
the Policy would exceed the amount to be recovered, including the costs that could be incurred if pursuing such
recovery would violate local laws other than the Company’s Home Country laws (following reasonable attempts
by the Company Group to recover such Erroneously Awarded Compensation, the documentation of such attempts,
and the provision of such documentation to Nasdaq), (ii) pursuing such recovery would violate the Company’s
Home Country laws adopted prior to November 28, 2022 (provided that the Company obtains an opinion of Home
Country counsel acceptable to Nasdaq that recovery would result in such a violation and provides such opinion to
Nasdaq), or (iii) recovery would likely cause any otherwise tax-qualified retirement plan, under which benefits are
broadly available to employees of the Company Group, to fail to meet the requirements of 26 U.S.C. 401(a)(13) or
26 U.S.C. 411(a) and regulations thereunder.
3. Means of Repayment
In the event that the Committee determines that any person shall repay any Erroneously Awarded
Compensation, the Committee shall provide written notice to such person by email or certified mail to the
physical address on file with the Company Group for such person, and the person shall satisfy such repayment in a
manner and on such terms as required by the Committee, and the Company Group shall be entitled to set off the
repayment amount against any amount owed to the person by the Company Group, to require the forfeiture of any
award granted by the Company Group to the person, or to take any and all necessary actions to reasonably
promptly recover the repayment amount from the person, in each case, to the fullest extent permitted under
applicable law, including without limitation, Section 409A of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code and the regulations
and guidance thereunder. If the Committee does not specify a repayment timing in the written notice described
above, the applicable person shall be required to repay the Erroneously Awarded Compensation to the Company
Group by wire, cash, cashier’s check or other means as agreed by the Committee no later than thirty (30) days
after receipt of such notice.
4. No Indemnification
No person shall be indemnified, insured or reimbursed by the Company Group in respect of any loss of
compensation by such person in accordance with this Policy, nor shall any person receive any advancement of
expenses for disputes related to any loss of compensation by such person in accordance with this Policy, and no
person shall be paid or reimbursed by the Company Group for any premiums paid by such person for any third-
party insurance policy covering potential recovery obligations under this Policy. For this purpose,
“indemnification” includes any modification to current compensation arrangements or other means that would
amount to de facto indemnification (for example, providing the person a new cash award which would be
cancelled to effect the recovery of any Erroneously Awarded Compensation). In no event shall the Company
Group be required to award any person an additional payment if any Restatement would result in a higher
incentive compensation payment.
5. Miscellaneous
This Policy generally will be administered and interpreted by the Committee, provided that the Board may,
from time to time, exercise discretion to administer and interpret this Policy, in which case, all references herein to
“Committee” shall be deemed to refer to the Board. Any determination by the Committee with respect to this
Policy shall be final, conclusive and binding on all interested parties. Any discretionary determinations of the
Committee under this Policy, if any, need not be uniform with respect to all persons, and may be made selectively
amongst persons, whether or not such persons are similarly situated.
This Policy is intended to satisfy the requirements of Section 954 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and
Consumer Protection Act, as it may be amended from time to time, and any related rules or regulations
promulgated by the SEC or the Nasdaq, including any additional or new requirements that become effective after
the Effective Date which upon effectiveness shall be deemed to automatically amend this Policy to the extent
necessary to comply with such additional or new requirements.
The provisions in this Policy are intended to be applied to the fullest extent of the law. To the extent that any
provision of this Policy is found to be unenforceable or invalid under any applicable law, such provision will be
applied to the maximum extent permitted and shall automatically be deemed amended in a manner consistent with
its objectives to the extent necessary to conform to applicable law. The invalidity or unenforceability of any
provision of this Policy shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Policy.
Recovery of Erroneously Awarded Compensation under this Policy is not dependent upon the Company Group
satisfying any conditions in this Policy, including any requirements to provide applicable documentation to the
Nasdaq.
The rights of the Company Group under this Policy to seek forfeiture or reimbursement are in addition to, and
not in lieu of, any rights of recovery, or remedies or rights other than recovery, that may be available to the
Company Group pursuant to the terms of any law, government regulation or stock exchange listing requirement or
any other policy, code of conduct, employee handbook, employment agreement, equity award agreement, or other
plan or agreement of the Company Group.
6. Amendment and Termination
To the extent permitted by, and in a manner consistent with applicable law, including SEC and Nasdaq rules,
the Committee may terminate, suspend or amend this Policy at any time in its discretion.
7. Successors
This Policy shall be binding and enforceable against all persons and their respective beneficiaries, heirs,
executors, administrators or other legal representatives with respect to any Covered Compensation granted, vested
or paid to or administered by such persons or entities.