SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

 
 

Washington, D.C. 20549

 
     
 

SCHEDULE 13D

 

 

Under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
(Amendment No.
__)*

 

Asta Funding, Inc.

(Name of Issuer)

 

Common Stock, par value $.01 per share

(Title of Class of Securities)

 

0462220109

(CUSIP Number)

 

Gary Stern

210 Sylvan Avenue

Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey 07632

(201) 567-5648

(Name, Address and Telephone Number of Person
Authorized to Receive Notices and Communications)

 

April 8, 2020

(Date of Event Which Requires Filing of this Statement)

 

If the filing person has previously filed a statement on Schedule 13G to report the acquisition that is the subject of this Schedule 13D, and is filing this schedule because of §§ 240.13d-1(e), 240.13d-1(f) or 240.13d-1(g), check the following box. ☐

 

Note: Schedules filed in paper format shall include a signed original and five copies of the schedule, including all exhibits. See Section 240.13d-7 for other parties to whom copies are to be sent.

 

* The remainder of this cover page shall be filled out for a reporting person’s initial filing on this form with respect to the subject class of securities, and for any subsequent amendment containing information which would alter disclosures provided in a prior cover page.

 

The information required on the remainder of this cover page shall not be deemed to be “filed” for the purpose of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Act”) or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section of the Act but shall be subject to all other provisions of the Act (however, see the Notes).

 

 

 

CUSIP No. 0462220109

 

 

1.

Names of Reporting Persons.

I.R.S. Identification Nos. of above persons (entities only)

Gary Stern

 
 

2.

Check the Appropriate Box if a Member of a Group (See Instructions)

   

(a)

 ☑

   

(b)

 ☐

 
 

3.

SEC Use Only

 
 

4.

Source of Funds (See Instructions)
PF/BK

 
 

5.

Check if Disclosure of Legal Proceedings Is Required Pursuant to Items 2(d) or 2(e)     ☐

 
 

6.

Citizenship or Place of Organization
United States of America

 

 

7.

Sole Voting Power
700,049

Number of  
Shares
Beneficially

8.

Shared Voting Power
1,403,868 (1) (2)

Owned by  
Each
Reporting

9.

Sole Dispositive Power
700,049

Person With  
 

10.

Shared Dispositive Power
1,403,868 (1) (2)

 
 

11.

Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person
2,103,917 (1) (2)

 
 

12.

Check if the Aggregate Amount in Row (11) Excludes Certain Shares (See Instructions)   ☐

 
 

13.

Percent of Class Represented by Amount in Row (11)
31.0% (1) (2)

 
 

14.

Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions)
IN

 

 

(1)

Includes 842,000 Shares held by Asta Group, Incorporated (“Asta Group”). The Reporting Person may be deemed to have shared voting and dispositive power over such Shares held by Asta Group because of his role as an officer, director and shareholder of Asta Group. The Reporting Person disclaims beneficial ownership of such Shares and neither the filing of this Statement on Schedule 13D nor any of its contents shall be deemed to constitute an admission by the Reporting Person that he is the beneficial owner of any such Shares for purposes of Section 13(d) of the Act, or for any other purpose, and such beneficial ownership is expressly disclaimed by the Reporting Person.

 

(2)

The Reporting Person previously reported shared voting and dispositive power over 145,428 Shares held by Emily Stern, the Reporting Person’s adult child who shared his household, on Amendment No. 11 to the Reporting Person’s Schedule 13D. For purposes of this Schedule 13D, the Shares owned directly by Emily Stern are reported separately as Shares over which Emily Stern has sole voting and dispositive power. This difference in reported shared voting and dispositive beneficial ownership (a reduction to 1,403,868 from 1,549,296 Shares) represents such separate reporting by Emily Stern and not a reduction resulting from any sale or other disposition by the Reporting Person.

 

 

 

CUSIP No. 0462220109

 

 

1.

Names of Reporting Persons.

I.R.S. Identification Nos. of above persons (entities only)

Ricky Stern

 
 

2.

Check the Appropriate Box if a Member of a Group (See Instructions)

   

(a)

 ☑

   

(b)

 ☐

 
 

3.

SEC Use Only

 
 

4.

Source of Funds (See Instructions)
OO/BK

 
 

5.

Check if Disclosure of Legal Proceedings Is Required Pursuant to Items 2(d) or 2(e)  ☐

 
 

6.

Citizenship or Place of Organization
United States of America

 

 

7.

Sole Voting Power
1,968,882 (1)

Number of  
Shares
Beneficially

8.

Shared Voting Power 
561,868

Owned by  
Each
Reporting

9.

Sole Dispositive Power 
1,968,882 (1)

Person With  
 

10.

Shared Dispositive Power 
561,868

 
 

11.

Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person 
2,530,750 (1)

 
 

12.

Check if the Aggregate Amount in Row (11) Excludes Certain Shares (See Instructions) ☐

 
 

13.

Percent of Class Represented by Amount in Row (11) 
38.2% (1)

 
 

14.

Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions)
IN

 

 

(1)

Includes 871,500 Shares of Common Stock held by GMS Family Investors LLC.

 

 

 

CUSIP No. 0462220109

 

 

1.

Names of Reporting Persons.

I.R.S. Identification Nos. of above persons (entities only)

Emily Stern

 
 

2.

Check the Appropriate Box if a Member of a Group (See Instructions)

   

(a)

 ☑

   

(b)

 ☐

 
 

3.

SEC Use Only

 
 

4.

Source of Funds (See Instructions)
OO/BK

 
 

5.

Check if Disclosure of Legal Proceedings Is Required Pursuant to Items 2(d) or 2(e)  ☐

 
 

6.

Citizenship or Place of Organization
United States of America

 

 

7.

Sole Voting Power
145,428

Number of  
Shares
Beneficially

8.

Shared Voting Power 
0

Owned by  
Each
Reporting

9.

Sole Dispositive Power 
145,428

Person With  
 

10.

Shared Dispositive Power 
0

 
 

11.

Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person 
145,428

 
 

12.

Check if the Aggregate Amount in Row (11) Excludes Certain Shares (See Instructions) ☐

 
 

13.

Percent of Class Represented by Amount in Row (11) 
2.2%

 
 

14.

Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions)
IN

 

 

 

CUSIP No. 0462220109

 
 

1.

Names of Reporting Persons.

I.R.S. Identification Nos. of above persons (entities only)

Arthur Stern

 
 

2.

Check the Appropriate Box if a Member of a Group (See Instructions)

   

(a)

 ☑

   

(b)

 ☐

 
 

3.

SEC Use Only

 
 

4.

Source of Funds (See Instructions)
PF/BK

 
 

5.

Check if Disclosure of Legal Proceedings Is Required Pursuant to Items 2(d) or 2(e)  ☐

 
 

6.

Citizenship or Place of Organization
United States of America

 

 

7.

Sole Voting Power
100,684

Number of  
Shares
Beneficially

8.

Shared Voting Power 
0

Owned by  
Each
Reporting

9.

Sole Dispositive Power 
100,684

Person With  
 

10.

Shared Dispositive Power 
0

 
 

11.

Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person 
100,684

 
 

12.

Check if the Aggregate Amount in Row (11) Excludes Certain Shares (See Instructions) ☐

 
 

13.

Percent of Class Represented by Amount in Row (11) 
1.5%

 
 

14.

Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions)
IN

 

 

CUSIP No. 0462220109

 
 

1.

Names of Reporting Persons.

I.R.S. Identification Nos. of above persons (entities only)

GMS Family Investors LLC

 
 

2.

Check the Appropriate Box if a Member of a Group (See Instructions)

   

(a)

 ☑

   

(b)

 ☐

 
 

3.

SEC Use Only

 
 

4.

Source of Funds (See Instructions)
OO/BK

 
 

5.

Check if Disclosure of Legal Proceedings Is Required Pursuant to Items 2(d) or 2(e)  ☐

 
 

6.

Citizenship or Place of Organization
Delaware

 

 

7.

Sole Voting Power
871,500

Number of  
Shares
Beneficially

8.

Shared Voting Power 
0

Owned by  
Each
Reporting

9.

Sole Dispositive Power 
871,500

Person With  
 

10.

Shared Dispositive Power 
0

 
 

11.

Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person 
871,500

 
 

12.

Check if the Aggregate Amount in Row (11) Excludes Certain Shares (See Instructions) ☐

 
 

13.

Percent of Class Represented by Amount in Row (11) 
13.3%

 
 

14.

Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions)
OO

 

 

 

CUSIP No. 0462220109

 

 

1.

Names of Reporting Persons.

I.R.S. Identification Nos. of above persons (entities only)

Asta Group, Incorporated

 
 

2.

Check the Appropriate Box if a Member of a Group (See Instructions)

   

(a)

 ☑

   

(b)

 ☐

 
 

3.

SEC Use Only

 
 

4.

Source of Funds (See Instructions)
WC/BK

 
 

5.

Check if Disclosure of Legal Proceedings Is Required Pursuant to Items 2(d) or 2(e)  ☐

 
 

6.

Citizenship or Place of Organization
Delaware

 

 

7.

Sole Voting Power
842,000

Number of  
Shares
Beneficially

8.

Shared Voting Power 
0

Owned by  
Each
Reporting

9.

Sole Dispositive Power 
842,000

Person With  
 

10.

Shared Dispositive Power 
0

 
 

11.

Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person 
842,000

 
 

12.

Check if the Aggregate Amount in Row (11) Excludes Certain Shares (See Instructions) ☐

 
 

13.

Percent of Class Represented by Amount in Row (11) 
12.8%

 
 

14.

Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions)
CO

 

 

 

CUSIP No. 0462220109

 

 

1.

Names of Reporting Persons.

I.R.S. Identification Nos. of above persons (entities only)

Ricky Stern Family 2012 Trust

 

 

2.

Check the Appropriate Box if a Member of a Group (See Instructions)

   

(a)

 ☑

   

(b)

 ☐

 
 

3.

SEC Use Only

 
 

4.

Source of Funds (See Instructions)
OO/BK

 
 

5.

Check if Disclosure of Legal Proceedings Is Required Pursuant to Items 2(d) or 2(e)  ☐

 
 

6.

Citizenship or Place of Organization
New Jersey

 

 

7.

Sole Voting Power
714,364

Number of  
Shares
Beneficially

8.

Shared Voting Power 
0

Owned by  
Each
Reporting

9.

Sole Dispositive Power 
714,364

Person With  
 

10.

Shared Dispositive Power 
0

 
 

11.

Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person 
714,364

 
 

12.

Check if the Aggregate Amount in Row (11) Excludes Certain Shares (See Instructions) ☐

 
 

13.

Percent of Class Represented by Amount in Row (11) 
10.9%

 
 

14.

Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions)
OO

 

 

 

CUSIP No. 0462220109

 

 

1.

Names of Reporting Persons.

I.R.S. Identification Nos. of above persons (entities only)

Ricky Stern 2012 GST Trust

 
 

2.

Check the Appropriate Box if a Member of a Group (See Instructions)

   

(a)

 ☑

   

(b)

 ☐

 
 

3.

SEC Use Only

 
 

4.

Source of Funds (See Instructions)
OO/BK

 
 

5.

Check if Disclosure of Legal Proceedings Is Required Pursuant to Items 2(d) or 2(e)  ☐

 
 

6.

Citizenship or Place of Organization
New York

 

 

7.

Sole Voting Power
318,590

Number of  
Shares
Beneficially

8.

Shared Voting Power 
0

Owned by  
Each
Reporting

9.

Sole Dispositive Power 
318,590

Person With  
 

10.

Shared Dispositive Power 
0

 
 

11.

Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person 
318,590

 
 

12.

Check if the Aggregate Amount in Row (11) Excludes Certain Shares (See Instructions) ☐

 
 

13.

Percent of Class Represented by Amount in Row (11) 
4.9%

 
 

14.

Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions)
OO

 

 

 

CUSIP No. 0462220109

 

 

1.

Names of Reporting Persons.

I.R.S. Identification Nos. of above persons (entities only)

Emily Stern Family 2012 Trust

 
 

2.

Check the Appropriate Box if a Member of a Group (See Instructions)

   

(a)

 ☑

   

(b)

 ☐

 
 

3.

SEC Use Only

 
 

4.

Source of Funds (See Instructions)
OO/BK

 
 

5.

Check if Disclosure of Legal Proceedings Is Required Pursuant to Items 2(d) or 2(e)  ☐

 
 

6.

Citizenship or Place of Organization
New Jersey

 

 

7.

Sole Voting Power
187,590

Number of  
Shares
Beneficially

8.

Shared Voting Power 
0

Owned by  
Each
Reporting

9.

Sole Dispositive Power 
187,590

Person With  
 

10.

Shared Dispositive Power 
0

 
 

11.

Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person 
187,590

 
 

12.

Check if the Aggregate Amount in Row (11) Excludes Certain Shares (See Instructions) ☐

 
 

13.

Percent of Class Represented by Amount in Row (11) 
2.9%

 
 

14.

Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions)
OO

 

 

 

CUSIP No. 0462220109

 

 

1.

Names of Reporting Persons.

I.R.S. Identification Nos. of above persons (entities only)

Emily Stern 2012 GST Trust

 
 

2.

Check the Appropriate Box if a Member of a Group (See Instructions)

   

(a)

 ☑

   

(b)

 ☐

 
 

3.

SEC Use Only

 
 

4.

Source of Funds (See Instructions)
OO/BK

 
 

5.

Check if Disclosure of Legal Proceedings Is Required Pursuant to Items 2(d) or 2(e)  ☐

 
 

6.

Citizenship or Place of Organization
New York

 

 

7.

Sole Voting Power
243,278

Number of  
Shares
Beneficially

8.

Shared Voting Power 
0

Owned by  
Each
Reporting

9.

Sole Dispositive Power 
243,278

Person With  
 

10.

Shared Dispositive Power 
0

 
 

11.

Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person 
243,278

 
 

12.

Check if the Aggregate Amount in Row (11) Excludes Certain Shares (See Instructions) ☐

 
 

13.

Percent of Class Represented by Amount in Row (11) 
3.7%

 
 

14.

Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions)
OO

 

 

 

CUSIP No. 0462220109

 

 

1.

Names of Reporting Persons.

I.R.S. Identification Nos. of above persons (entities only)

Asta Finance Acquisition Inc.

 
 

2.

Check the Appropriate Box if a Member of a Group (See Instructions)

   

(a)

 ☑

   

(b)

 ☐

 
 

3.

SEC Use Only

 
 

4.

Source of Funds (See Instructions)
OO/BK

 
 

5.

Check if Disclosure of Legal Proceedings Is Required Pursuant to Items 2(d) or 2(e)  ☐

 
 

6.

Citizenship or Place of Organization
Delaware

 

 

7.

Sole Voting Power
0

Number of  
Shares
Beneficially

8.

Shared Voting Power 
0

Owned by  
Each
Reporting

9.

Sole Dispositive Power 
0

Person With  
 

10.

Shared Dispositive Power 
0

 
 

11.

Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person 
0

 
 

12.

Check if the Aggregate Amount in Row (11) Excludes Certain Shares (See Instructions) ☐

 
 

13.

Percent of Class Represented by Amount in Row (11) 
0%

 
 

14.

Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions)
CO

 

 

 

CUSIP No. 0462220109

 

 

1.

Names of Reporting Persons.

I.R.S. Identification Nos. of above persons (entities only)

Asta Finance Acquisition Sub Inc.

 
 

2.

Check the Appropriate Box if a Member of a Group (See Instructions)

   

(a)

 ☑

   

(b)

 ☐

 
 

3.

SEC Use Only

 
 

4.

Source of Funds (See Instructions)
OO/BK

 
 

5.

Check if Disclosure of Legal Proceedings Is Required Pursuant to Items 2(d) or 2(e)  ☐

 
 

6.

Citizenship or Place of Organization
Delaware

 

 

7.

Sole Voting Power
0

Number of  
Shares
Beneficially

8.

Shared Voting Power 
0

Owned by  
Each
Reporting

9.

Sole Dispositive Power 
0

Person With  
 

10.

Shared Dispositive Power 
0

 
 

11.

Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person 
0

 
 

12.

Check if the Aggregate Amount in Row (11) Excludes Certain Shares (See Instructions) ☐

 
 

13.

Percent of Class Represented by Amount in Row (11) 
0%

 
 

14.

Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions)
CO

 

 

 

CUSIP No. 0462220109

 

 

Explanatory Note:

Gary Stern (“Gary Stern”), Ricky Stern (“Ricky Stern”), Emily Stern (“Emily Stern”), Arthur Stern (“Arthur Stern”), GMS Family Investors LLC (“GMS”), Asta Group, Incorporated (“Asta Group”), the Ricky Stern Family 2012 Trust (the “RSFT”), the Ricky Stern 2012 GST Trust (the “RSGST”), the Emily Stern Family 2012 Trust (the “ESFT”), the Emily Stern 2012 GST Trust (the “ESGST,” and together with Gary Stern, Ricky Stern, Emily Stern, Arthur Stern, GMS, Asta Group, RSFT, ESFT, and RSGST, the “Stern Group”), Asta Finance Acquisition Inc. (“Parent”) and Asta Finance Acquisition Sub Inc. (“Merger Sub,” and together with Parent, the “Parent Parties”) (the Stern Group and the Parent Parties collectively, the “Reporting Persons”) are filing this Schedule 13D to report their respective beneficial ownership of shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “Shares”), of Asta Funding, Inc. (the “Issuer”) as of the date hereof. Each Reporting Person is a party to that certain Joint Filing Agreement filed as an exhibit hereto. Accordingly, the Reporting Persons are hereby filing a joint Schedule 13D. To the extent a Reporting Person has previously filed a Schedule 13D with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), this Schedule 13D constitutes an amendment to such Reporting Person’s Schedule 13D. Except for information specifically set forth herein, this Schedule 13D does not modify any of the information previously reported on any such Reporting Person’s Schedule 13D.

 

Item 1.

Security and Issuer.

This statement relates to the Shares of the Issuer. The Issuer’s principal executive offices are located at 210 Sylvan Avenue, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey 07632.

 

Item 2.

Identity and Background.

Reporting Persons

 

(a)     This statement is filed by:

 

    (i)      Gary Stern, as an officer, director and shareholder of Asta Group and with respect to the Shares directly and beneficially owned by him;

   (ii)       Ricky Stern, as an officer, director and shareholder of GMS and with respect to the Shares directly and beneficially owned by him;

  (iii)       Emily Stern, with respect to the Shares directly and beneficially owned by her;

  (iv)      Arthur Stern, with respect to the Shares directly and beneficially owned by him;

   (v)       GMS, a Delaware LLC, with respect to the Shares directly and beneficially owned by it;

  (vi)      Asta Group, a Delaware corporation, with respect to the Shares directly and beneficially owned by it;

 (vii)      RSFT, a New Jersey trust, with respect to the Shares directly and beneficially owned by it;

(viii)       RSGST, a New York trust, with respect to the Shares directly and beneficially owned by it;

  (ix)      EFST, a New Jersey trust, with respect to the Shares directly and beneficially owned by it;

   (x)       ESGST, a New York trust, with respect to the Shares directly and beneficially owned by it;

  (xi)      Parent, a Delaware corporation; and

 (xii)      Merger Sub, a Delaware corporation.

 

(b)     The address of the principal office of each of the Reporting Persons is 210 Sylvan Avenue, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey 07632.

 

(c)     The principal business or occupation of the Reporting Persons are as follows:

 

    (i)      The principal occupation of Gary Stern is the Chief Executive Officer of the Issuer.

   (ii)      The principal occupation of Ricky Stern is serving as Senior Vice President of the Issuer and as President and CEO of GAR Disability Advocates, a subsidiary of the Issuer, with a principal address of 210 Sylvan Avenue, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey 07632.

  (iii)      The principal occupation of Emily Stern is student.

  (iv)      Arthur Stern is retired.

   (v)      The principal business of GMS is the investment of securities.

  (vi)      The principal business of Asta Group is the investment of securities.

 (vii)      The principal business of RSFT is as a trust for the benefit of Ricky Stern.

(viii)      The principal business of RSGST is as a trust for the benefit of Ricky Stern.

  (ix)      The principal business of ESFT is a trust for the benefit of Emily Stern.

   (x)      The principal business of ESGST is a trust for the benefit of Emily Stern.

  (xi)      The principal business of Parent is a holding company formed for the purpose of the transactions described in Item 4.

 (xii)      The principal business of Merger Sub is to enter into the transactions described in Item 4.

 

 

 

(d)     No Reporting Person has, during the last five years, been convicted in a criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations or similar misdemeanors).

 

(e)     No Reporting Person has, during the last five years, been a party to a civil proceeding of a judicial or administrative body of competent jurisdiction and as a result of such proceeding was or is subject to a judgment, decree or final order enjoining future violations of, or prohibiting or mandating activities subject to, federal or state securities laws or finding any violation with respect to such laws.

 

(f)      Each of Gary Stern, Ricky Stern, Emily Stern and Arthur Stern is a citizen of the United States.

 

Other Officers and Directors

 

Tzvi Marburger and Aviva Marburger are directors and officers of Asta Group and are not Reporting Persons pursuant to this Schedule 13D. Gary Stern, Mr. Marburger, and Ms. Marburger constitute all of the directors and officers of Asta Group.

 

Tzvi Marburger

 

Mr. Marburger serves as Secretary and director of Asta Group. Mr. Marburger’s address is c/o Asta Group, Incorporated, 210 Sylvan Avenue, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey 07632 and his principal occupation is student. Mr. Marburger has not, during the last five years, (i) been convicted in a criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations or similar misdemeanors) or (ii) been a party to a civil proceeding of a judicial or administrative body of competent jurisdiction and as a result of such proceeding was or is subject to a judgment, decree or final order enjoining future violations of, or prohibiting or mandating activities subject to, federal or state securities laws or finding any violation with respect to such laws. Mr. Marburger is a citizen of the United States of America.

 

Aviva Marburger

 

Ms. Marburger serves as Treasurer and director of Asta Group. Ms. Marburger’s address is c/o Bais Yaakov Ayeles Hashachar, P.O. Box 416, Tallman, New York 10982 and her principal occupation is school principal. Ms. Marburger has not, during the last five years, (i) been convicted in a criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations or similar misdemeanors) or (ii) been a party to a civil proceeding of a judicial or administrative body of competent jurisdiction and as a result of such proceeding was or is subject to a judgment, decree or final order enjoining future violations of, or prohibiting or mandating activities subject to, federal or state securities laws or finding any violation with respect to such laws. Ms. Marburger is a citizen of the United States of America.

 

Item 3.

Source and Amount of Funds or Other Consideration.

Reporting Persons

 

Gary Stern

The sources and amounts of funds or other consideration used to acquire the Shares beneficially owned by Gary Stern are as previously reported on Gary Stern’s Schedule 13D and the Amendments thereto.

 

Ricky Stern

The sources and amounts of funds or other consideration used to acquire the Shares beneficially owned by Ricky Stern are as previously reported on Ricky Stern’s Schedule 13D and the Amendments thereto.

 

Emily Stern

The Shares beneficially owned by Emily Stern were acquired by her through gifts from Gary Stern, her father.

 

Arthur Stern

The Shares beneficially owned by Arthur Stern were acquired with personal funds.

 

GMS

The sources and amounts of funds or other consideration used to acquire the Shares beneficially owned by GMS are as previously reported on GMS’s Schedule 13D and the Amendments thereto.

 

Asta Group

The sources and amounts of funds or other consideration used to acquire the Shares beneficially owned by Asta Group are as previously reported on Asta Group’s Schedule 13D and the Amendments thereto.

 

 

 

 

RSFT

The Shares beneficially owned by the RSFT were transferred to such trust by the merger of the Ricky Stern 2001 Trust. As of the date of such transfer, Judith Feder was the sole trustee of the Ricky Stern 2001 Trust.

 

RSGST

The Shares beneficially owned by the RSGST were contributed by (1) Arthur Stern, as Grantor, to the RSGST upon the formation thereof, (2) gift of Gary Stern to such Trust, (3) gift of Stern Family Investors LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, and (4) gift of Ms. Feder, as Trustee of the Stern Family 2000 Trust.

 

ESFT

The Shares beneficially owned by the ESFT were transferred to such trust by the merger of the Emily Stern 2001 Trust. As of the date of such transfer, Ms. Feder was the sole trustee of the Emily Stern 2001 Trust.

 

ESGST

The Shares beneficially owned by the ESGST were contributed by (1) Arthur Stern, as Grantor, to the ESGST upon the formation thereof, and (2) gift of Gary Stern to such trust.

 

Parent

 

Parent does not currently have beneficial ownership of any Shares. Parent is a party to the Debt Commitment Letter discussed in Item 4 below, and the proceeds of such Loan (as defined below) are intended to be used to fund the Merger as described in Item 4 hereof.

 

Merger Sub

 

Merger Sub does not currently have beneficial ownership of any Shares.

 

Bank Funds

 

The information with respect to the Debt Commitment Letter discussed in Item 4 below is incorporated by reference into this Item 3. The proceeds of the Loan (as defined below) are intended to be used to fund the Merger described in Item 4 hereof.

 

Other Officers and Directors

 

Tzvi Marburger

 

As a result of his serving as an officer, director and shareholder of Asta Group, Mr. Marburger may be deemed to have shared beneficial ownership of the 842,000 Shares held by Asta Group. Mr. Marburger disclaims beneficial ownership of such Shares.

 

Aviva Marburger

 

The 27,085 Shares held directly by Ms. Marburger were acquired by gift from Arthur Stern or with the proceeds derived from her personal funds. Additionally, as a result of her serving as an officer, director and shareholder of Asta Group, Ms. Marburger may be deemed to have shared beneficial ownership of the 842,000 Shares held by Asta Group. Ms. Marburger disclaims beneficial ownership with respect to all 842,000 Shares held by Asta Group.

 

Item 4.

Purpose of Transaction.

Item 4 is amended as to include the following for those Reporting Persons who have previously filed a Schedule 13D with the SEC:

 

The Reporting Persons may be deemed a group for purposes of Section 13(d)(3) of the Act and Rule 13d-5(b) thereunder with respect to the Shares, and such group has beneficial ownership of 4,318,911 Shares, or approximately 63.3% of the Issuer’s outstanding Shares of common stock in the aggregate.

 

Agreement and Plan of Merger

 

As previously reported by the Issuer on a Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 8, 2020 (the “Form 8-K”), the Issuer entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) with the Parent Parties, pursuant to which Merger Sub shall merge with and into the Issuer, with the Issuer surviving the Merger as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Parent (the “Merger”).

 

 

 

 

The board of directors of the Issuer (the “Board”), acting upon the unanimous recommendation of a special committee independent of the Issuer’s Board and formed for the purpose of evaluating the possible sale of the Issuer (the “Special Committee”), has unanimously approved the proposed Merger. The consummation of the Merger is subject to customary closing conditions, including the approval of the Merger Agreement by a majority of the Shares entitled to vote thereon, other than the Parent Parties and the Stern Group that have executed the Stern Group Commitment Letter, as described below and any other officers and directors of the Issuer and any other person having any equity interest in, or any right to acquire any equity interest in, Merger Sub or any person of which Merger Sub is a direct or indirect subsidiary. The Merger is expected to close during the Issuer’s third fiscal quarter of 2020.

 

Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, if the Merger is completed, holders of shares of the Shares that are outstanding immediately prior to the time of the consummation of the Merger (the “Effective Time”) shall be entitled to receive $11.47 in cash for each Share held by such stockholders (the “Merger Consideration”), and all such Shares shall be automatically canceled and retired and shall cease to exist. Such Merger Consideration shall not apply to each Share that is owned immediately prior to the Effective Time by (i) the Issuer (whether held in treasury or otherwise) or any direct or indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the Issuer or (ii) any of the Parent Parties, including the Rollover Shares (as defined below) (collectively, the “Excluded Shares”). The Excluded Shares shall be automatically canceled and cease to exist as of the Effective Time. The Merger Consideration shall also not apply to holders of Common Stock who successfully exercise and perfect their appraisal rights under the Delaware General Corporation Law (the “DGCL”).

 

Except as otherwise agreed to in writing prior to the Effective Time of the Merger by Parent and a holder of any of the Issuer’s stock options with respect to any of such holder’s stock options, each of the Issuer’s stock options, whether vested or unvested and whether with an exercise price per share that is greater or less than, or equal to, $11.47, that is outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time, will, as of the Effective Time, become fully vested and be canceled and converted into the right to receive an amount in cash from the Issuer as the surviving corporation equal to (a) the product of (i) the excess, if any, of $11.47 over the exercise price per share of the Shares subject to such stock option multiplied by (ii) the total number of Shares subject to such stock option, without interest, less (b) such amounts as are required to be withheld or deducted under applicable tax provisions.

 

The Merger Agreement contains customary representations and warranties of the Issuer and the Parent Parties and customary pre-closing covenants, including covenants requiring the Issuer (i) to use its commercially reasonable efforts to preserve in all material respects the Issuer’s business organization and maintain in all material respects existing relations and goodwill, (ii) to conduct its business in the ordinary course, and (iii) to refrain from taking certain actions. The Merger Agreement also includes customary provisions prohibiting any solicitation or negotiations by the Issuer of other possible acquisition transactions or any adverse change to the Board’s recommendation to approve the Merger.

 

The Merger Agreement contains customary termination rights and may be terminated by the mutual written consent of both the Issuer and the Parent prior to the Effective Time of the Merger, whether before or after stockholder approval has been obtained. In addition, the Merger Agreement may be terminated by the Issuer or Parent if: (i) the Merger has not been completed by on or before December 31, 2020 (the “Outside Date”); (ii) there is an injunction or similar order prohibiting the consummation of the Merger (A) by a governmental entity having jurisdiction over the business of the Issuer and its subsidiaries (other than a de minimis portion of such business) or (B) that, if not abided by, would potentially result in criminal liability; or (iii) the Merger Agreement has been submitted to the stockholders of the Issuer for adoption at a duly convened stockholders meeting and the requisite vote shall not have been obtained at such meeting, provided, that Parent shall not have the right to terminate the Merger Agreement if the failure to obtain the requisite vote is due to the failure of the Stern Group to vote the shares of Common Stock beneficially owned or controlled by the Stern Group pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Voting Agreement (as defined below).

 

Parent may terminate the Merger Agreement if (i) there is a breach, in any material respect, of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement on the part of the Issuer which would result in a failure of certain conditions relating to the Issuer’s representations, warranties, covenants and agreements to be satisfied and which breach is incapable of being cured by the Outside Date, or is not cured within thirty days following delivery of written notice of such breach, so long as the Parent is not then in material breach of their representations, warranties, agreements or covenants contained in the Merger Agreement; (ii) the Board or the Special Committee does not include its recommendation to vote in favor of the proposal to adopt the Merger Agreement in the proxy statement or changes its recommendation; (iii) the Issuer enters into an alternative acquisition agreement; (iv) the Board or the Special Committee approves or recommends any alternative proposal or publicly proposes to take any of the previous actions; or (v) a tender or exchange offer constituting an alternative proposal has been commenced and the Issuer has not sent to its stockholders within ten business days a statement disclosing that the Board or the Special Committee recommends rejection of such tender or exchange offer; so long as Parent terminates the Merger Agreement within thirty calendar days of the occurrence listed in (ii) through (v) above.

 

The Issuer may terminate the Merger Agreement if (i) there is a breach, in any material respect, of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement on the part of the Parent Parties which would result in a failure of certain conditions relating to the Parent Parties’ representations, warranties, covenants and agreements to be satisfied and which breach is incapable of being cured by the Outside Date, or is not cured within thirty days following delivery of written notice of such breach, provided that the Issuer is not then in material breach of its representations, warranties, agreements or covenants contained in the merger agreement; (ii) prior to the approval of the proposal to adopt the Merger Agreement by the Issuer’s stockholders, in order to enter into a definitive agreement with respect to a superior proposal, provided that substantially concurrently with such termination, the Issuer must enter into such definitive agreement and pay to Parent the termination fee as described below; or (iii) if all conditions to the Parent Parties’ obligation to consummate the Merger have been satisfied or irrevocably waived in writing by the Issuer and the Issuer stands ready, willing and able to close and the Parent Parties fail to consummate the Merger within three business days following the required closing date and the Issuer stood ready, willing and able to close during such three business days.

 

 

 

Under specified circumstances, the Issuer will be required to pay Parent a termination fee of $400,000. Parent will be required to pay the Issuer a termination fee of $500,000 under certain circumstances. The Issuer will be required to pay Parent (or one or more of its designees) the documented out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the Parent and its respective affiliates in connection with the Merger Agreement and the financing and the transactions contemplated thereby, up to a maximum amount of $250,000, if the Issuer or Parent has terminated the Merger Agreement because the meeting of the Issuer’s stockholders has concluded and the approval of the proposal to adopt the Merger Agreement by the required vote of the stockholders has not been obtained. Any such amount will be credited against any termination fee of the Issuer payable to the Parent.

 

The foregoing summary of the Merger Agreement is qualified in its entirety by reference to the complete text of such document, a form of which is filed as Exhibit 2.1 to the Form 8-K and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Form of Voting Agreement

 

In connection with entering into the Merger Agreement, the Stern Group has entered into a voting agreement with the Issuer (the “Voting Agreement”) as a condition and inducement to the willingness of the Issuer to enter into the Merger Agreement. The foregoing summary of the Voting Agreement is qualified in its entirety by reference to the complete text of such document, a form of which is filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 8-K and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Commitment Letters

 

In connection with entering into the Merger Agreement, the Stern Group has entered into a rollover commitment letter in favor of the Parent (the “Stern Group Commitment Letter”). Pursuant to the Stern Group Commitment Letter, the Stern Group has committed to transfer, contribute and deliver the Shares that they directly own (the “Rollover Shares”) to the Parent in exchange for common stock of the Parent. The foregoing summary of the Stern Group Commitment Letter is qualified in its entirety by reference to the complete text of such document, a form of which is filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Form 8-K and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

In connection with the Merger Agreement, Parent entered into a Commitment Letter with Bank Leumi USA (“Bank Leumi”), dated April 3, 2020 (the “Debt Commitment Letter”). Pursuant to the Debt Commitment Letter, Bank Leumi has committed to provide a loan facility in the maximum principal amount of $35,000,000 to Parent for purposes of funding the Merger Consideration (the “Loan”).  The Loan is expected to have a floating interest rate based on 1-month LIBOR plus 150 basis points, but in any event, no less than 2.7% per annum, and will have an expected maturity date one month after the closing date of the Loan.  The Loan is intended to be secured by a valid first-priority perfected security interest in cash collateral and eligible securities of the Parent Parties and the Issuer. The final terms and conditions of the Loan are subject to the execution of a definitive loan agreement and related loan documents between the parties thereto. The foregoing summary of the Debt Commitment Letter is qualified in its entirety by reference to the complete text of such document, a form of which is filed as Exhibit 99.2 to this Schedule 13D and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Limited Guarantee

 

In connection with entering into the Merger Agreement, Gary Stern has executed and delivered a limited guarantee (the “Limited Guarantee”) in favor of the Issuer as a condition and inducement of the Issuer to enter into the Merger Agreement. Pursuant to the Limited Guarantee, Gary Stern is guaranteeing certain obligations of the Parent Parties in connection with the Merger Agreement. The foregoing summary of the Limited Guarantee is qualified in its entirety by reference to the complete text of such document, a form of which is filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Form 8-K and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 5.

Interest in Securities of the Issuer.

Reporting Persons

 

Item 5 is amended to include the following for those Reporting Persons who have previously filed a Schedule 13D with the SEC:

 

(a) – (b)  As of the close of business as of April 8, 2020, the following individuals had:

 

(i)     Gary Stern

 

 

 

1.      Sole power to vote or direct vote: 700,049

2.      Shared power to vote or direct vote: 1,403,868

3.      Sole power to dispose or direct the disposition: 700,049

4.      Shared power to dispose or direct the disposition: 1,403,868

 

The aggregate number of Shares that may be deemed to be beneficially owned by Gary Stern as of the date hereof is 2,103,917, which constituted 31.0% of Shares outstanding based on the Issuer’s most recently filed quarterly or annual report.

 

The Shares with respect to which Gary Stern may be deemed to have sole voting and dispositive power consist of (i) 490,049 Shares he owns directly and (ii) 210,000 Shares in stock options of the Issuer, such stock options being exercisable within 60 days.

 

The Shares with respect to which Gary Stern may be deemed to have shared voting and dispositive power consist of (i) 842,000 Shares held by Asta Group that may be attributed to the Reporting Person based on his position as an officer, stockholder and director of Asta Group (the Reporting Person disclaims beneficial ownership with respect to all 842,000 Shares held by Asta Group); (ii) 318,590 Shares held by the RSGST for which the Reporting Person is a co-trustee; and (iii) 243,278 Shares held by the ESGST Trust for which the Reporting Person is a co-trustee.

 

NOTE: Gary Stern previously reported shared voting and dispositive power over 145,428 Shares held by Emily Stern, his adult child who shared his household, on Amendment No. 11 to Gary Stern’s Schedule 13D. For purposes of this Schedule 13D, the Shares owned directly by Emily Stern are reported separately as Shares over which Emily Stern has sole voting and dispositive power. This difference in reported shared voting and dispositive beneficial ownership (a reduction to 1,403,868 from 1,549,296 Shares) represents such separate reporting by Emily Stern and not a reduction resulting from any sale or other disposition by Gary Stern.

 

  (ii)   Ricky Stern

 

1.      Sole power to vote or direct vote: 1,968,882

2.      Shared power to vote or direct vote: 561,868

3.      Sole power to dispose or direct the disposition: 1,968,882

4.      Shared power to dispose or direct the disposition: 561,868

 

The aggregate number of Shares that may be deemed to be beneficially owned by Ricky Stern as of the date hereof is 2,530,750, which constituted 38.2% of Shares outstanding based on the Issuer’s most recently filed quarterly or annual report.

 

The Shares with respect to which Ricky Stern may be deemed to have sole voting and dispositive power consist of (i) 145,428 Shares he owns directly; (ii) 50,000 Shares in stock options of the Issuer, such stock options being exercisable within 60 days; (iii) 871,500 Shares held by GMS; (iv) 714,364 Shares held by the RSFT for which he is the sole trustee; and (v) 187,590 Shares held by the ESFT for which he is the sole trustee.

 

The Shares with respect to which Ricky Stern may be deemed to have shared voting and dispositive power consist of (i) 318,590 Shares held by the RSGST for which he is a co-trustee and (ii) 243,278 Shares held by the ESGST for which he is a co-trustee.

 

 (iii)   Emily Stern

 

Emily Stern has sole voting and dispositive power with respect to the 145,428 Shares reported as being beneficially owned by her, which constituted 2.2% of Shares outstanding based on the Issuer’s most recently filed quarterly or annual report.

 

NOTE: Gary Stern previously reported shared voting and dispositive power over 145,428 Shares held by Emily Stern, his adult child who shared his household, on Amendment No. 11 to Gary Stern’s Schedule 13D. For purposes of this Schedule 13D, the Shares owned directly by Emily Stern are reported separately as Shares over which Emily Stern has sole voting and dispositive power. This difference in Gary Stern’s reported shared voting and dispositive beneficial ownership (a reduction to 1,403,868 from 1,549,296 Shares) represents such separate reporting by Emily Stern and not a reduction resulting from any sale or other disposition by Gary Stern.

 

     (iv)   Arthur Stern

 

Arthur Stern has sole voting and dispositive power with respect to the 100,684 Shares reported as being beneficially owned by him, which constituted 1.5% of Shares outstanding based on the Issuer’s most recently filed quarterly or annual report.

 

          (v)   GMS

 

GMS has sole voting and dispositive power with respect to the 871,500 Shares reported as being beneficially owned by it, which constituted 13.3% of Shares outstanding based on the Issuer’s most recently filed quarterly or annual report.

 

 

 

         (vi)   Asta Group

 

Asta Group has sole voting and dispositive power with respect to the 842,000 Shares reported as being beneficially owned by it, which constituted 12.8% of Shares outstanding based on the Issuer’s most recently filed quarterly or annual report.

 

       (vii)    RSFT

 

RSFT has sole voting and dispositive power with respect to the 714,364 Shares reported as being beneficially owned by it, which constituted 10.9% of Shares outstanding based on the Issuer’s most recently filed quarterly or annual report.

 

      (viii)    RSGST

 

RSGST has sole voting and dispositive power with respect to the 318,590 Shares reported as being beneficially owned by it, which constituted 4.9% of Shares outstanding based on the Issuer’s most recently filed quarterly or annual report.

 

        (ix)    ESFT

 

ESFT has sole voting and dispositive power with respect to the 187,590 Shares reported as being beneficially owned by it, which constituted 2.9% of Shares outstanding based on the Issuer’s most recently filed quarterly or annual report.

 

         (x)    ESGST

 

ESGST has sole voting and dispositive power with respect to the 243,278 Shares reported as being beneficially owned by it, which constituted 3.7% of Shares outstanding based on the Issuer’s most recently filed quarterly or annual report.

 

        (xi)    Parent

 

Parent does not have any beneficial ownership in any Shares.

 

       (xii)    Merger Sub

 

Merger Sub does not have any beneficial ownership in any Shares.

 

(c)   None of the Reporting Persons has effected any transactions in the Shares of the Issuer during the past sixty (60) days.

 

(d)   The respective beneficiaries of the RSFT, the RSGST, the ESFT and the ESGST have the right to receive or the power to direct the receipt of dividends from, or the proceeds from the sale of, the applicable Shares owned directly by such trusts.

 

Other Officers and Directors

 

Tzvi Marburger

 

Mr. Marburger may be deemed to have shared voting and dispositive power with respect to the 842,000 shares held by Asta Group based on his position as officer, director and stockholder of Asta Group. Mr. Marburger disclaims beneficial ownership with respect to all 842,000 Shares held by Asta Group.

 

Aviva Marburger

 

Ms. Marburger has sole voting and dispositive power with respect to 27,085 Shares held directly. Ms. Marburger may be deemed to have shared voting and dispositive power with respect to the 842,000 shares held by Asta Group based on her position as officer, director and stockholder of Asta Group. Ms. Marburger disclaims beneficial ownership with respect to all 842,000 Shares held by Asta Group.

 

Item 6.

Contracts, Arrangements, Understandings or Relationships with Respect to Securities of the Issuer.

On April 8, 2020, the Reporting Persons entered into a Joint Filing Agreement pursuant to which the Reporting Persons agreed to the joint filing on behalf of each of them of statements on Schedule 13D with respect to the securities of the Issuer to the extent required by applicable law. The Joint Filing Agreement is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1 and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

The information with respect to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 8, 2020, by and among Asta Finance Acquisition Inc., Asta Finance Acquisition Sub Inc. and Asta Funding, Inc.; the Form of Voting Agreement, dated April 8, 2020, between the Stern Group and Asta Funding, Inc.; the Stern Group Commitment Letter dated April 8, 2020; and the Form of Limited Guarantee dated April 8, 2020, all discussed in Item 4 above are incorporated by reference into this Item 6.

 

 

 

 

Item 7.

Exhibits.

Exhibit No. Description
   
99.1 Joint Filing Agreement, dated April 8, 2020, by and among the Reporting Persons.
99.2 Debt Commitment Letter, dated April 3, 2020, by and between Bank Leumi USA and Parent.
99.3 Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 8, 2020, by and among Asta Finance Acquisition Inc., Asta Finance Acquisition Sub Inc. and Asta Funding, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of the Issuer’s Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 8, 2020).
99.4 Form of Voting Agreement, dated April 8, 2020, between the Stern Group and Asta Funding, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Issuer’s Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 8, 2020).
99.5 Stern Group Commitment Letter dated April 8, 2020 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Issuer’s Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 8, 2020).
99.6 Form of Limited Guarantee dated April 8, 2020 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Issuer’s Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 8, 2020).

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

After reasonable inquiry and to the best of his or her knowledge and belief, each of the undersigned certifies that the information set forth in this statement is true, complete and correct.

 

Dated: April 15, 2020

 

/s/ Gary Stern                                      

Gary Stern

 

/s/ Ricky Stern                                    

Ricky Stern

 

/s/ Emily Stern                                    

Emily Stern

 

/s/ Arthur Stern                                   

Arthur Stern

 

GMS Family Investors LLC

 

By: /s/ Ricky Stern                             

 Name: Ricky Stern

 Title: Manager

 

Asta Group, Incorporated 

 

By: /s/ Gary Stern                               

 Name: Gary Stern

 Title: President

 

 

 

Ricky Stern Family 2012 Trust

 

By: /s/ Ricky Stern                             

 Name: Ricky Stern

 Title: Trustee

 

Ricky Stern 2012 GST Trust 

 

By: /s/ Gary Stern                               

 Name: Gary Stern

 Title: Trustee

 

Emily Stern Family 2012 Trust

 

By: /s/ Ricky Stern                             

 Name: Ricky Stern

 Title: Trustee

 

Emily Stern 2012 GST Trust 

 

By: /s/ Gary Stern                               

 Name: Gary Stern

 Title: Trustee

 

Asta Finance Acquisition Inc.

 

By: /s/ Gary Stern                              

 Name: Gary Stern

 Title: President

 

Asta Finance Acquisition Sub Inc.

 

By: /s/ Gary Stern                               

 Name: Gary Stern

 Title: President

 

 

ex_181395.htm

Exhibit 99.1

 

SCHEDULE 13D

JOINT FILING AGREEMENT

 

This Joint Filing Agreement shall be filed as an Exhibit to such statement. This agreement is made pursuant to Rule 13d-1(k)(1) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Act”), by and among the parties listed below, each referred to herein as a “Joint Filer.” The Joint Filers agree that the foregoing Schedule 13D with respect to the Common Stock of Asta Funding, Inc. is filed on behalf of each of the undersigned and that all subsequent amendments to such statement shall be filed on behalf of each of the undersigned without necessity of filing an additional joint filing agreement. This joint filing agreement may be included as an exhibit to such joint filing.

 

The undersigned further agree that each party hereto is responsible for the timely filing of such Statement on Schedule 13D and any amendments to either or both, and for the accuracy and completeness of the information concerning such party contained therein; provided, however, that no party is responsible for the accuracy or completeness of the information concerning any other party, unless such party knows or has reason to believe that such information is inaccurate.

 

This Joint Filing Agreement may be signed in counterparts with the same effect as if the signature on each counterpart were upon the same instrument.

 

 

 

[Signature Pages Follow]

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the undersigned hereby executes this Joint Filing Agreement as of this 15th day of April, 2020.

 

/s/ Gary Stern                                                       

Gary Stern

 

/s/ Ricky Stern                                                       

Ricky Stern

 

/s/ Emily Stern                                                       

Emily Stern

 

/s/ Arthur Stern                                                       

Arthur Stern

 

GMS Family Investors LLC

 

By: /s/ Ricky Stern​​​​​​​                                                

Name: Ricky Stern

Title: Manager

 

Asta Group, Incorporated 

 

By: /s/ Gary Stern​​​​​​​                                                

Name: Gary Stern

Title: President

 

 

 

Ricky Stern 2012 Family Trust

 

By: /s/ Ricky Stern​​​​​​​                                                

Name: Ricky Stern

Title: Trustee

 

Ricky Stern 2012 GST Trust 

 

By: /s/ Gary Stern​​​​​​​                                                

Name: Gary Stern

Title: Trustee

 

Emily Stern 2012 Trust 

 

By: /s/ Ricky Stern​​​​​​​                                                

Name: Ricky Stern

Title: Trustee

 

Emily Stern 2012 GST Trust 

 

By: /s/ Gary Stern​​​​​​​                                                

Name: Gary Stern

Title: Trustee

 

Asta Finance Acquisition Inc.

 

By: /s/ Gary Stern​​​​​​​                                                

Name: Gary Stern

Title: President

 

Asta Finance Acquisition Sub Inc.

 

By: /s/ Gary Stern​​​​​​​                                                

Name: Gary Stern

Title: President

 

 

ex_181275.htm
 

Exhibit 99.2

 

 

 

Confidential

 

 

April 3, 2020

 

 

Asta Finance Acquisition Inc.

210 Sylvan Ave
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
Attention: Mr. Gary Stern

 

 

 

Re:

$35,000,000 Term Loan

 

Dear Mr. Stern:

 

We are pleased to inform you that, subject to the terms and conditions set forth below, Bank Leumi USA (“Bank,” “we” or “us”) has committed to provide at the request of Asta Finance Acquisition Inc. (“Borrower” or “you”) loans and/or other credit accommodations in an aggregate amount not to exceed $35,000,000 (collectively, the “Facility”). Bank’s obligation to make the Facility available to Borrower is subject to and conditioned upon Borrower’s acceptance of this letter by April 8, 2020 in the manner described below, and the satisfaction of the terms and conditions set forth herein.

 

I.

Terms of the Facility.

 

The principal terms and conditions of the Facility are set forth on the term sheet attached hereto as Exhibit A and made a part hereof. In addition to these terms and conditions, the Facility shall also be governed by such other terms as are customarily required by Bank in transactions of this type, all as set forth in the definitive loan documents to be executed in connection therewith (the “Loan Documents”).

 

II.

Acceptance; Good Faith Deposit.

 

If the terms and conditions of the Facility and this letter are acceptable, please have both copies of this letter signed and return one copy to the undersigned c/o Bank Leumi USA, 579 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10017, no later than 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on April 8, 2020. Upon acceptance, this letter will constitute a binding commitment for Bank to make the Facility available in accordance with its terms and conditions. Bank acknowledges receipt from Borrower of Forty Thousand Dollars ($40,000) as a deposit (the “Deposit”). Upon the closing of the Facility, the Deposit shall be applied by Bank to the payment of its fees and expenses related thereto, including without limitation the origination and other fees described on Exhibit A hereto. If the Facility does not close (for any reason other than willful default hereunder by Bank), the Deposit will be deemed earned by Bank in consideration for processing Borrower’s application and will not be refunded. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Deposit is not a maximum sum that will be required to be paid by Borrower for Bank’s costs and expenses, and Borrower’s obligation to reimburse Bank for all of its costs and expenses remains unconditional.

 

 

Asta Finance Acquisition Inc.
CONFIDENTIAL
April 3, 2020

 

III.

Conditions Precedent.

 

In addition to the Borrower’s acceptance of the terms of this letter in the manner described above, Bank’s obligation to close and fund the Facility is subject to the satisfaction of the other conditions set forth herein and compliance with the terms and provisions contained in Exhibit A, each of which is incorporated into this letter by this reference, including, without limitation, Borrower’s compliance with all reasonable and customary closing requirements of Bank and its counsel consistent with the terms hereof. Furthermore, Bank shall have no obligation to close and fund the Facility if (i) there is a material adverse change with respect to Borrower or Secured Guarantor or their respective business, financial status or properties (including the proposed collateral), or (ii) the making of the Facility would violate any law, rule or regulation applicable to Bank. Any of the following occurrences shall (without limitation) be deemed to be a “material adverse change” for the purposes of the foregoing sentence: (a) any bankruptcy, reorganization or insolvency proceeding involving Borrower or Secured Guarantor is commenced by the Borrower or Secured Guarantor, or any such involuntary proceeding is commenced and not stayed or dismissed within thirty (30) days; or (b) any sale, transfer, lien or encumbrance (other than in favor of Bank or as permitted in accordance with Exhibit A) of the proposed collateral results in the requirement set forth under “Advance Rate” in Exhibit A to not be met.

 

IV.

Reimbursement of Fees and Expenses.

 

In addition to the Deposit provided for above, and regardless of whether or not the Facility is closed or funded, Borrower hereby agrees to pay on demand all costs and expenses of Bank incurred in connection with the closing, documentation, review, negotiation and approval of this letter or the Facility, including without limitation the fees and expenses of Bank’s legal counsel, and recording, stamp and/or filing fees or taxes for all documents required to be filed or recorded in connection with the Facility. The foregoing obligation is unconditional, and shall survive the termination or other expiration of this letter and the execution of the Loan Documents.

 

V.

Termination of Commitment.

 

If all required Loan Documents are not executed and delivered and the other conditions to closing set forth herein or on Exhibit A are not satisfied by July 14, 2020 (for any reason other than Bank’s willful default hereunder), then Bank’s obligations under this commitment shall cease and Bank shall have no liability to Borrower hereunder, unless Bank has extended its commitment to grant the Facility in a writing delivered by Bank to Borrower.

 

VI.

Other.

 

This commitment shall be deemed to be construed under the laws of the State of New York. Upon acceptance by Borrower, this commitment shall contain the sole and entire agreement and understanding of Bank and Borrower with respect to the entire subject matter hereof. Any and all prior discussions, applications, commitments, writings and understandings relating thereto are merged into and replaced by this commitment. This commitment cannot be waived, changed, modified, amended, or supplemented in any manner except by an instrument in writing signed by Bank. No waiver or modification by Bank of any term or condition of this commitment shall affect or be deemed to waive or modify any other term or condition hereof. This commitment is made for the purpose of defining and setting forth certain obligations, rights and duties of Borrower and Bank in connection with the requested Facility, and Borrower may not assign all or any portion of this commitment without the prior written consent of Bank.

 

2

Asta Finance Acquisition Inc.
CONFIDENTIAL
April 3, 2020

 

 

Very truly yours,

 

BANK LEUMI USA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Russell Turley

 

 

 

Name: Russell Turley
Title:  Vice President

 

 

 

 

 

       
  By: /s/ Douglas J. Meyer  
    Name: Douglas J. Meyer
Title:  Senior Vice President
 

 

ACCEPTANCE AND AGREEMENT:

 

The undersigned, with the intent to be legally bound, hereby accepts and agrees to the terms and conditions of the foregoing letter agreement and Exhibit A thereto, this

 

   7    day of April, 2020:

 

BORROWER:

 

ASTA FINANCE ACQUISITION INC., a Delaware corporation

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Gary Stern                                 
Name: Gary Stern
Title: President

 

3

Asta Finance Acquisition Inc.
CONFIDENTIAL
April 3, 2020

 

EXHIBIT A

TERM SHEET

 

$35,000,000 TERM LOAN

 

Borrower:

Asta Finance Acquisition Inc., a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware (“Borrower”).

   

Secured Guarantor:

Jointly and severally, Asta Funding, Inc., a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware, and all wholly-owned subsidiaries of Borrower (individually and collectively, “Secured Guarantor”).

   

Bank:

Bank Leumi USA (“Bank”, “we” or “us”).

   

Facility:

A fully committed bridge loan in an amount not to exceed $35,000,000 (the “Maximum Loan Amount”), subject to the Advance Rate (defined below).

   

Purpose:

To facilitate the going private transaction of Asta Funding, Inc. by Asta Finance Acquisition Inc. and its subsidiary.

   

Maturity Date:

 

 

Interest:

The earlier to occur of (i) the acceleration of the maturity of the amounts due hereunder upon an Event of Default (as defined below) and (ii) the date that is one (1) month after closing of the Facility (“Maturity Date”).

 

Floating rate based on 1-month LIBOR plus 150 basis points, but in any event, not less than 2.7% per annum. Interest will be calculated on the basis of the actual number of days elapsed in a 360-day year. A default rate of interest of 3.0% per annum in excess of the interest rate otherwise in effect shall apply.

   

Payment Terms:

All principal and accrued and unpaid interest will be paid on the Maturity Date.

   

Fee:

Origination fee of 50 basis points of the closing loan amount (the “Origination Fee”), $40,000 of which is nonrefundable and has been paid to Bank by Borrower (the “Deposit”). The balance of the Origination Fee shall be paid at (and as a condition precedent to) closing. The Deposit will be applied to Bank’s out-of-pocket costs and expenses in connection with the Facility, and shall be deemed fully earned and non-refundable whether or not the Facility closes; provided that the Deposit will be refundable to Borrower (less Bank’s costs and expenses, including reasonable attorney’s fees incurred) only if Bank does not approve the Facility upon substantially the same terms and conditions as provided herein or the Facility does not close solely due to the fault of the Bank.

   

Collateral:

The Facility shall be secured by a combination, to Bank’s satisfaction, of:

 

(a)     Assignment of cash collateral to be held at Bank that is funded at least seven days prior to closing (“Cash Collateral”) with respect to which Bank will hold a valid first-priority perfected security interest at closing; and/or

 

A-1

Asta Finance Acquisition Inc.
CONFIDENTIAL
April 3, 2020

 

 

(b)     Eligible securities consisting of marketable U. S. Treasury Securities held in a securities account of Borrower and/or Secured Guarantor with Bank or its affiliates (“Eligible Securities”) with respect to which Bank will hold a valid first-priority perfected security interest at closing with a Securities Account Control Agreement.

 

All credit facilities and bank products extended by Bank to Borrower and/or Secured Guarantor (including the Facility) are to be cross-collateralized and cross-defaulted.

   
Prepayment: Borrower shall have the right to prepay the Facility in whole or in part without penalty.
   

Advance Rate:

The Advance Rate shall be equal to: 90% of Eligible Securities; plus 100% of Cash Collateral.

 

At no time shall the advances under the Facility exceed the sum of value of the Cash Collateral and Eligible Securities multiplied by the applicable Advance Rate at such time, and in such event, Borrower shall, within two (2) business days after Bank’s demand, repay to Bank and/or provide additional Cash Collateral or Eligible Securities in an amount equal to such excess.

   

Conditions Precedent:

Bank’s commitment hereunder to fund the Facility described herein is subject solely to the conditions expressly set forth herein, including:

 

(a)  Prior to closing, Borrower shall have confirmed that Borrower and Secured Guarantor are in material compliance with all securities laws in respect of the going private transaction and delivered to its shareholders all appropriate notices and disclosures.

 

(b)  Execution and delivery of the Agreement and Plan of Merger (“Merger Agreement”), the Limited Guarantee, the Rollover Financing Commitment, the Voting Agreement and the Company Disclosure Letter, each substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B, with such changes thereto as the parties may negotiate that are not adverse to Bank in any material respect.

 

(c)  The conditions to consummation of the merger pursuant to the Merger Agreement shall have been satisfied or, if waivable, waived by the parties thereto.

 

(d)  Execution and delivery of customary Facility documentation reasonably satisfactory to Bank.

 

(e)  Delivery of customary legal opinions relating to Borrower, Secured Guarantor and the Facility.

 

(f)   Evidence that all actions necessary or, in the reasonable opinion of Bank, desirable, to perfect and protect the liens and security interests of Bank have been taken, including entry into account control agreements between Bank and Secured Guarantor.

 

A-2

Asta Finance Acquisition Inc.
CONFIDENTIAL
April 3, 2020

 

 

(g)   Borrower will establish all deposit and cash management accounts with Bank.

 

(h)   Accuracy in all material respects of the representations and warranties of Borrower and Secured Guarantor, as applicable.

 

(i)   Organizational documents for Borrower and Secured Guarantor, together with certificate(s) of good standing, as well as any materials reasonably requested by Bank in accordance with applicable banking laws and regulations in effect from time to time.

 

(j)   All expenses incurred by Bank in connection with the proposed transaction, including without limitation reasonable attorney’s fees of Bank’s counsel, will be paid by Borrower on or prior to closing, and whether or not the Facility closes.

   

Representations and Warranties:

Representations and warranties applicable to the Borrower and Secured Guarantor customary and usual for financings of this type and shall include, without limitation the following (subject to thresholds and/or exceptions to be agreed): existence and legal status; power and authority; non-contravention; authorization and enforceability of the Loan Documents; no conflicts with law, organizational documents or contractual obligations; accuracy and completeness of financial and other information (including pro forma financial information); no material adverse change; compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including ERISA, the PATRIOT Act and OFAC; accuracy and completeness of disclosure; consents and approvals; ownership of property; intellectual property; subsidiaries; taxes; insurance; labor matters; no liens; no litigation; inapplicability of the Investment Company Act of 1940; solvency; no default or event of default; and validity, priority and perfection of liens and security interests in the Collateral.

   

Reporting Covenants:

Notices of defaults, litigation, and such other customary reporting and information as reasonably required by Bank for a facility of this nature.

   

Other Covenants:

Customary for facilities of this nature, including but not limited to (and subject to exceptions to be agreed): (i) restrictions upon indebtedness, liens, further negative pledges, guaranties, mergers, fundamental changes, dispositions of assets, change of control, redemptions, distributions, loans and investments; (ii) maintenance of primary operating accounts with Bank; (iii) visitation and inspection rights for Bank; (iv) approvals and compliance with law; (v) payment of taxes; (vi) maintenance of insurance; (vii) maintenance of properties; (viii) presentation of existence; (ix) compliance with anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism laws; (x) transactions with affiliates; (xi) use of proceeds; (xii) ERISA matters; (xiii) environmental matters; (xiv) further assurances; and (xv) change of primary business, offices or fiscal year.

 

A-3

Asta Finance Acquisition Inc.
CONFIDENTIAL
April 3, 2020

 

Events of Default:

Events of default applicable to Borrower and Secured Guarantor customary and usual for financings of this type, including, without limitation the following (subject to grace periods, thresholds and exceptions satisfactory to Bank): failure to pay principal when due or interest or other amounts when due; breach of representations, warranties or covenants; cross-default and cross-acceleration to material debt; bankruptcy and insolvency events; material judgment defaults; actual or asserted invalidity or impairment of any guarantees or security documents; a change of control (to be defined); occurrence of a material adverse change (to be defined).

   

Documentation:

The definitive loan documentation for the Facility (the “Loan Documents”) shall contain the terms and conditions set forth herein and in the Commitment Letter to which this Term Sheet is attached and such other terms as Borrower and Bank shall agree. The Loan Documents shall be in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Bank and shall contain the terms and conditions set forth in this Term Sheet and, to the extent any terms are not set forth in this Term Sheet, shall otherwise be usual and customary for transactions of this kind in the opinion of (and reasonably acceptable to) Bank. Any permitted subordinated debt must be subject to subordination documentation in form and substance acceptable to Bank.

   

Governing Law:

New York.

   

Expenses and Indemnification:

Borrower will pay Bank’s reasonable legal and other out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the negotiation, preparation, and execution of the legal documentation of the Facility, regardless of whether the transaction is consummated, including but not limited to any required appraisal, collateral audits and reasonable Bank outside counsel legal fees. Documentation shall contain expense and indemnification provisions for the benefit of Bank.

   

USA PATRIOT Act:

Bank hereby notifies you that pursuant to the requirements of the USA Patriot Act, Title III of Pub. L. 107-56 (signed into law October 26, 2001) (the “Patriot Act”), Bank may be required to obtain, verify and record information that identifies Borrower and Secured Guarantor, which information includes the name, address, tax identification number and other information regarding Borrower and Secured Guarantor that will allow Bank to identify Borrower and Secured Guarantor in accordance with the Patriot Act. In that connection, Bank may also request corporate formation documents, or other forms of identification, to verify information provided.

   

Miscellaneous:

Waiver of jury trial, consent to New York venue and jurisdiction, and waiver of consequential and punitive damages.

   

Confidentiality:

The negotiations between the parties, this letter and the proposed terms contained herein or otherwise negotiated between the parties and the information provided by Borrower to Bank in the course of such negotiations, are strictly confidential and may not be disclosed by Borrower or Secured Guarantor and their respective shareholders or by Bank other than (i) to their (and to Asta Funding, Inc.’s) respective officers, advisors, board and investment/audit/special committee members, on a need to know basis, or (ii) as required by law, the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission or by stock exchange rules or regulations1 (and, in such case, only to the extent required by law); provided, however, that Bank reserves the right to disclose all documents and information which Bank now has or hereafter may acquire relating to any credit accommodation subject hereto, Borrower or any guarantor or other loan party or their respective business, or any collateral to its affiliates and/or in connection with any assignment or transfer to any participant in the Facility.

 


1 This arrangement will be described in detail in Asta Funding. Inc.’s merger/proxy statement and the related 13e-3 filing.

A-4

Asta Finance Acquisition Inc.
CONFIDENTIAL
April 3, 2020

 

Taxes, Yield Protection and Increased Costs:

The Loan Documents executed in connection with the Facility will contain customary provisions for facilities of this kind, including, without limitation, in respect of tax gross-ups, breakage and redeployment costs, increased costs, funding losses, capital adequacy and illegality.

   

Counsel to Bank:

Otterbourg P.C.

   

Assignments; Participations:

The Loan Documents shall provide that Borrower may not assign its rights or interests with respect to the Facility without the prior written consent of Bank. Bank shall reserve the right to assign its interests in the Facility, and to grant participations in all or any part of the Facility, in its sole discretion.

 

A-5

Asta Finance Acquisition Inc.
CONFIDENTIAL
April [__], 2020

 

EXHIBIT B

forms of merger agreement, Limited Guarantee, Rollover Financing Commitment, Voting Agreement and Company Disclosure Letter

 

 

 

[See attached.]

 

 

 

B-1