UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K/A-2

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2008

Commission File Number    000-29507

CHANTICLEER HOLDINGS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in the charter)

Delaware
20-2932652
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification Number)

The Rotunda, 4201 Congress Street, Suite 145, Charlotte, NC  28209
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code:                            (704) 366-5122

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

Common Stock, $0.0001 par value
(Title of Class)

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. o Yes x No.

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. o Yes x No.

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 past 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 x No o.

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company.  See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.  (Check one):
Large accelerate filer o Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer o Smaller reporting company x

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). o Yes x No.

State the aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold, or the average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter ($7.00 per share) (588,655 of 941,726 shares): $4,120,585 as of June 30, 2008.

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.  There were 946,376 shares of common stock outstanding as of February 10, 2009.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:  No documents are incorporated by reference into this Report except those Exhibits so incorporated as set forth in the Exhibit index.
 
 
 

 

EXPLANATORY NOTE

We filed our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 on March 6, 2009 (the "Original Report").  We are filing this Amendment No. 1 on Form 10-K/A (this "Amendment") to revise the accounting for an other than temporary decline in available-for-sale securities as discussed in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements.  In addition, we expanded our Management's Discussion and Analysis in Item 7, expanded our revenue recognition policy in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, expanded our disclosure of Investments in Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements, revised our income tax disclosure in Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements as a result of the increased loss from our other than temporary loss on available-for-sale securities, expanded Item 9A(T) and provided currently-dated Exhibits 31.1 and 32.1.

This Amendment is being filed in response to comments we received from the staff of the Division of Corporation Finance of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") in connection with the staff's review of the Original Report.  We have made no attempt in this Amendment to modify or update the disclosures presented in the Original Report other than as noted in the previous paragraph.  Also, this Amendment does not reflect events occurring after the filing of the Original Report.  Accordingly, this Amendment should be read in conjunction with the Original Report and our other filings with the SEC subsequent to the filing of the Original Report.

 
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Chanticleer Holdings, Inc.
Form 10-K/A Index

   
Page
     
Part I
   
     
Item 1:
Business
4
Item 1A:
Risk Factors
8
Item 2:
Properties
8
Item 3:
Legal Proceedings
8
Item 4:
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
8
     
Part II
   
     
Item 5:
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
9
Item 6:
Selected Financial Data
10
Item 7:
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation
10
Item 7A:
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
16
Item 8:
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
17
Item 9:
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
40
Item 9A(T):
Controls and Procedures
40
Item 9B:
Other Information
42
     
Part III
   
     
Item 10:
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
43
Item 11:
Executive Compensation
46
Item 12:
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
48
Item 13:
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
49
Item 14:
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
50
     
Part IV
   
     
Item 15:
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
51
Signatures
52
 
 
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PART I

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Our future results may differ materially from our historical results and actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of certain risk factors.  These factors are described in the “Risk Factors” section below.  Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expected are the following: business conditions and general economic conditions; competitive factors, such as pricing and marketing efforts; and the pace and success of product research and development. These and other factors may cause expectations to differ.
 
ITEM 1:
BUSINESS

GENERAL DEVELOPMENT OF BUSINESS
Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. (the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “Chanticleer”) filed an election to be treated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”) on May 23, 2005. In connection with this election, we adopted corporate resolutions and operated as a closed-end, non-diversified management investment company and as a business development company (a “BDC”) until this election was revoked, as described below.

On April 18, 2006, we formed Chanticleer Investors LLC (“Investors LLC”) and sold units for $5,000,000, of which we own $1,150,000 (23%) as of December 31, 2008.  Investors LLC’s principal asset is a 6%, convertible note in the amount of $5,000,000 with Hooters of America, Inc. (“Hooters”), collateralized by and convertible into 2% of Hooters common stock.  One-third of the interest is paid to us as a management fee and we share pro-rata with the other investors in the remaining 4% interest, which is distributed to the investors quarterly.

On July 31, 2006, we formed Chanticleer Investors II, LLC (“Investors II”).  Investors II began raising funds in January 2007 for the purpose of investing in publicly traded value securities.

In January 2007, we formed Chanticleer Advisors, LLC (“Advisors”), as a wholly owned subsidiary to manage Investors II as well as other investments.  (For additional information, see www.chanticleeradvisors.com.)

On July 21, 2008, we filed Form N-54C with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) to notify the SEC of the withdrawal of our previous election to be regulated as a BDC under applicable provisions of the 1940 Act.  After careful consideration of the 1940 Act requirements applicable to BDCs, evaluation of the Company’s ability to operate as a going concern in an investment company regulatory environment, the costs associated with complying with the 1940 Act and a thorough assessment of potential alternative business models, our Board of Directors determined that continuation as a BDC was not in the best interests of the Company or our stockholders.  With the approval of more than a majority of the voting power of our common stock, we proceeded to file Form N-54C and thereby revoking our BDC status.

 
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Pursuant to Regulation S-X, Rule 6, the Company operated on a non-consolidated basis until July 21, 2008.  Operations of the portfolio companies were reported at the portfolio company level and only the appreciation or impairment of these investments was included in the Company’s financial statements.  Subsequent to July 21, 2008, as noted above, we ceased operating as a BDC and prepared consolidated financial statements with our wholly owned subsidiary.

NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

NEW BUSINESS MODEL

We intend to pursue a business model whereby we acquire majority ownership in restaurant-related companies, principally the Hooters brand and concept.

Under our new business model, we will at all times conduct our activities in such a way that we will not be deemed an “investment company” subject to regulation under the 1940 Act.  Thus, we will not hold ourselves out as being engaged primarily in the business of investing, reinvesting or trading in securities.  In addition, we will conduct our business in such a manner as to ensure that we will at no time own or propose to acquire investment securities having a value exceeding 40% of our total assets at any one time.

On December 24, 2008, Avenel Ventures LLC (“Ventures”) was formed as a wholly owned subsidiary of Chanticleer.  Ventures has entered into consulting agreements with two clients and will receive common stock from the clients for its business management and consulting services.  The Company expects to continue to expand this area of the business.

On February 19, 2009, Avenel Financial Services, LLC (“Financial”) was formed as a wholly owned subsidiary of Chanticleer.  Financial was organized to provide unique financial services to the restaurant, real estate development, investment advisor/asset management and philanthropic organizations.  Initial services will include captive insurance, CHIRA and trust services.
 
PENDING ACQUISITIONS
Hooters, Inc.

On March 11, 2008, the Company entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement for the purchase of Hooters, Inc., Hooters Management Corporation and their related restaurants (collectively “HI”) from the nine current individual HI shareholders, many of whom will continue to stay involved in the ongoing operation as shareholders of Chanticleer.  The transaction is valued at approximately $55.1 million and could close in the second quarter of 2009.

The closing of the transaction is subject to Chanticleer raising the necessary debt and equity financing to complete the acquisition.  Chanticleer has retained an investment banking firm to assist in securing the equity capital necessary to close the proposed transaction.  Chanticleer has completed all other conditions and is in process of raising the necessary debt and equity financing to complete the transaction.  (See current status below).

 
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HI was founded in 1983 and was the creator of the Hooters brand and concept.  In 1984, HI licensed Neighborhood Restaurants of America, n/k/a Hooters of America, Inc. (“HOA”), owned by a separate group of shareholders, to be its exclusive licensee in the development and expansion of its restaurant business.  In 2001 HI sold the Hooters trademarks and other related proprietary rights to HOA.  HI continues to own certain rights including a perpetual irrevocable license agreement with greatly reduced royalties, to operate its restaurants in its retained territories and, most importantly, to acquire franchisees within the Hooters system.  These rights will be acquired by Chanticleer as a part of the transaction.

Chanticleer has an existing relationship with HOA through its position as the lead investor in a $5 million, 6% convertible three-year promissory note from the Estate of Robert Brooks, the former Chairman of HOA.  This note is secured by and contains conversion options into 2% of HOA’s outstanding stock.  Chanticleer was also granted a right of first refusal and a right to match any equity financing proposed to, or sought by, HOA.  Additionally, Chanticleer currently holds an Option Agreement with HOA to open Hooters franchises in the Republic of South Africa which is under development.

HI currently owns and operates 22 restaurants, which comprise the highest average unit gross sales within the Hooters system, and includes locations in and around Tampa, Florida, Chicago, Illinois and the Manhattan regions, including the original Hooters restaurant located in Clearwater, Florida.  These are the operations of HI being acquired by Chanticleer.

Through December 31, 2008, the Company has recorded $279,050 in deferred acquisition costs related to the planned acquisition of HI.

Texas Wings

On July 8, 2008, the Company entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of Texas Wings Incorporated and its 45 related Hooters branded restaurants (collectively “Texas Wings”) for total consideration of approximately $106 million, including approximately $53 million in cash, approximately $37 million in Chanticleer common stock and convertible notes with an aggregate principal amount of approximately $16 million (the “Transaction”).

Chanticleer will create an operating company and combine Texas Wings with HI and its 22 Hooters restaurants, which the Company agreed to acquire in March 2008.

The Transaction is subject to a number of customary closing conditions and could close during the second quarter of 2009, concurrently with the closing of the HI acquisition.  (See current status below).
 
 
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Current Status

The termination date for the Company’s pending acquisition of the stock of HI and certain of its related entities followed immediately by the subsequent acquisition of Texas Wings and certain of its related entities has passed.  To date the sellers have not exercised their rights to terminate the agreements and the Company continues to pursue consummation of these transactions.  There is no assurance that the Company will be able to close the pending acquisitions.

In addition, the commitment letters from certain financial institutions to provide one or more related entities of the Company the $85,000,000 Senior Secured Credit have expired, primarily due to the inability of the Company to raise the necessary equity portion of the financing at acceptable terms in today’s financial environment.  The Company continues to communicate with the financial institutions that agreed to provide the credit facility, as well as others; however, there can be no assurance that the Company will be successful in obtaining any financing or that the terms of any credit facility in the future will be acceptable to the Company.
 
EMPLOYEES

At December 31, 2008 and 2007, we had 4 full-time employees.

Our employees are not represented by a labor union.  We have experienced no work stoppage and believe that our employee relationships are good.

OPERATION AS A BDC

Under our election to be governed as a BDC under the 1940 Act, we engaged in the business of providing investors with the opportunity to participate, with a modest amount of venture capital, in investments that are generally not available to the public and that typically require substantially larger financial commitments.  In addition, we provided professional management and administration that might otherwise be unavailable to investors if they were to engage directly in venture capital investing.  When regulated as a BDC under the 1940 Act, we operated as a non-diversified company as that term is defined in Section 5(b)(2) of the 1940 Act.  We could not cease to be, or withdraw our election as, a BDC without the approval of the holders of a majority of our outstanding and voting stock as defined under the 1940 Act.

As a BDC, we were required to invest at least 70% of our total assets in qualifying assets, which, generally, are securities of companies that are not investment companies and that:

 
·
do not have a class of securities registered on an exchange or included in the Federal Reserve Board’s over-the-counter margin list;
 
·
are actively controlled by a BDC and have an affiliate of a BDC on their board of directors; or
 
·
meet such other criteria as may be established by the SEC.

 
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Qualifying assets also include cash, cash equivalents, U.S. Government securities and high-quality debt investments maturing within one year or less from the date of investment.  We also were required to offer to provide significant managerial assistance to our qualifying portfolio companies.  We could invest the remaining 30% of our total assets in non-qualifying assets, including debt and/or equity securities of companies that may be larger or more stabilized than target portfolio companies.
 
ITEM 1A:
RISK FACTORS

Not applicable.

ITEM 2:
PROPERTIES

On February 22, 2007, we entered into a lease agreement jointly with Five Oaks Capital Partners, LLC to lease a total of 5,041 square feet, commencing March 26, 2007 through December 31, 2008.  Our allocated share of the space is 2,000 square feet and our monthly base rent is $3,980 in 2008.  Our lease is continuing on a month-to-month basis.

Our office facilities are suitable and adequate for our business as it is presently conducted.
 
ITEM 3:
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

We are not currently subject to any legal proceedings, nor, to our knowledge, is any legal proceeding threatened against us. However, from time to time, we may be a party to certain legal proceedings in the ordinary course of business.
 
ITEM 4:
SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

There were no matters submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter.

On May 16, 2008, stockholders representing more than a majority of the voting power of the Company, acting by written consent, approved and authorized our Board of Directors to withdraw the Company’s election to be treated as a BDC under the 1940 Act by filing Form N-54C with the SEC.  The Company filed its preliminary information statement on Schedule 14C on May 23, 2008, its amended preliminary information statement on Schedule 14C on June 18, 2008 and the definitive information statement on Schedule 14C on June 20, 2008 with the SEC.  The information statement was provided on behalf of our Board of Directors to record holders of shares of our common stock as of the close of business on the record date of May 14, 2008 to provide them with notice that our Board of Directors had recommended revoking of BDC status and a one-for-ten reverse stock split and that stockholders representing more than a majority of our voting power had approved the transactions by written consent.

 
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Part II

ITEM 5:
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Our common stock is currently listed on the electronic quotation and reporting service maintained by the National Association of Securities Dealers (“NASD”) and known as the “OTC Bulletin Board” or “OTCBB” system and currently trades under the symbol "CCLR".

The market closing, high and low prices during each quarter for the two years ended December 31, 2008, are as follows:

QUARTER ENDED
 
CLOSING
   
HIGH
   
LOW
 
                   
March 31, 2007
  $ 10.00     $ 11.00     $ 8.50  
June 30, 2007
    8.00       10.00       8.00  
September 30, 2007
    9.90       10.00       9.00  
December 31, 2007
    5.20       7.50       5.10  
                         
March 31, 2008
    6.50       8.00       5.40  
June 30, 2008
    7.00       7.00       5.10  
September 30, 2008
    7.00       7.00       5.75  
December 31, 2008
    5.75       7.00       5.50  

Number of Shareholders and Total Outstanding Shares

As of February 10, 2009, there were 946,376 shares of common stock issued and outstanding, held by approximately 46 shareholders of record.

Dividends on Common Stock

We have not previously declared a cash dividend on our common stock and we do not anticipate the payment of dividends in the near future.

Options

None.

Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans

None.

Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

Sales of our common stock during the first three quarters of the fiscal year were reported in Item 2 of Part II of the Form 10-Q filed for each quarter.  No shares were sold in the fourth quarter of 2008.

 
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Repurchase of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

There were no repurchase transactions to report for our fiscal year ended December 31, 2008.
 
ITEM 6: 
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

Not applicable.
 
ITEM 7:
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements contained in this report that are not historical fact are "forward-looking statements" as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words or phrases "will likely result," "are expected to," "will continue," "is anticipated," "believes," "estimates," "projects" or similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties beyond our reasonable control that could cause our actual business and results of operations to differ materially from those reflected in our forward-looking statements. The safe harbor provisions provided in the Securities Litigation Reform Act do not apply to forward-looking statements we make in this report. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Our forward-looking statements are based on trends which we anticipate in our industry and our good faith estimate of the effect on these trends of such factors as industry capacity, product demand and product pricing. The inclusion of projections and other forward-looking statements should not be regarded a representation by us or any other person that we will realize our projections or that any of the forward-looking statements contained in this prospectus will prove to be accurate.

Management’s Analysis of Business

We intend to pursue a business model whereby we acquire majority ownership in restaurant-related companies, principally the Hooters brand and concept.

Under our new business model, we will at all times conduct our activities in such a way that we will not be deemed an “investment company” subject to regulation under the 1940 Act.  Thus, we will not hold ourselves out as being engaged primarily in the business of investing, reinvesting or trading in securities.  In addition, we will conduct our business in such a manner as to ensure that we will at no time own or propose to acquire investment securities having a value exceeding 40% of our total assets at any one time.

While operating as a BDC, the Company provided equity and debt investment capital to fund growth, acquisitions and recapitalizations of small market companies in the United States.

 
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See Item 1, pages 5-7 for a discussion of our planned acquisition of Hooters, Inc. and Texas Wings.
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

At December 31, 2008 and 2007, the Company had current assets of $23,556 and $95,893; current liabilities of $686,125 and $349,268; and negative working capital of $662,569 and $253,375, respectively.  The Company incurred a loss of $2,238,613 during the year ended December 31, 2008.  The Company receives quarterly cash inflow of $25,000 from management fees and $11,500 from investment distributions, but expects quarterly cash outflow of approximately $130,000 per quarter for 2009, assuming the acquisitions previously discussed are not completed.

The Company expects to meet its short-term requirements through the liquidation of one investment to raise approximately $42,000 in cash; return of the advance made for the development rights of Hooters restaurants in Nevada in the remaining amount of $70,000; and a firm commitment for non-interest bearing advances from its CEO in the amount of $50,000.

The Company expects to have sufficient funding available from these sources until the possible second quarter of 2009 close of the acquisitions of HI and Texas Wings.  Subsequent to the close, the overhead requirements would be covered by distributions from the operations of HI and Texas Wings.

In the event the acquisitions do not close, the Company expects to have sufficient funds available to meet its requirements until May 2009, when the Company is scheduled to receive a distribution from its investment in Chanticleer Investors LLC in the amount of approximately $1,275,000.  Investors LLC has one asset, a note receivable from Hooters of America, Inc. in the amount of $5,000,000 which is due May 24, 2009.  At that time, the Company plans to repay the line of credit, any other short-term borrowings and have sufficient cash to cover all overhead requirements for at least another year while increasing the funds which Advisors manages.

At December 31, 2008, the Company had drawn the full amount of its bank line-of-credit in the amount of $500,000.  The line-of-credit is due in June 2009 and is expected to be renewed at that time.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Revenue

Revenue amounted to $234,055 in 2008 and $531,247 in 2007.  Cash revenues were $105,500 in 2008 and $100,000 in 2007.  Non-cash revenues from management fees include $128,555 in 2008 and include $431,247 in 2007 which was recognized from the receipt of securities for our services.  The majority of our cash revenues are management fees from Investors LLC.  Investors LLC has one principal asset, a $5,000,000 convertible note with HOA, which is scheduled to be repaid in May 2009.

 
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Pursuant to EITF 00-8, the fair value of the equity instruments received was determined based upon the stock prices as of the date we reached an agreement with the third party.  The terms of the securities are not subject to adjustment after the measurement date.
General and Administrative Expense (“G&A”)

G&A amounted to $1,131,830 in 2008 and $819,361 in 2007.  The more significant components of G&A are summarized as follows:
 
   
2008
   
2007
 
             
Professional fees
  $ 275,456     $ 199,113  
Payroll
    374,435       238,877  
Travel and entertainment
    106,203       112,911  
Accounting and auditing
    76,100       66,150  
Other G & A
    299,636       202,310  
    $ 1,131,830     $ 819,361  
 
The majority of the increase in professional fees, travel and entertainment and accounting and auditing are a result of the planned acquisition of HI and Texas Wings.  Other G&A costs increased primarily for the same reason.

In 2007, the CEO initially began receiving a salary and was paid $41,917 and in 2008 was paid $136,148.  The remainder of the increase in 2008 is primarily a result of hiring an in-house accountant.

If the acquisition of HI and Texas Wings is completed the G&A costs would remain about the same level as in 2008 plus increased audit fees and would be funded by management fees from the operating subsidiaries.  If the acquisition is not completed, the G&A costs are expected to decline to approximately $520,000.

Asset Impairment

We recorded an impairment loss of $52,216 on our investment in two gas wells, primarily due to a reduction in gas prices from which the estimated future cash flow was calculated.

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)

Other income (expense) consisted of the following at December 31, 2008 and 2007:

 
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2008
   
2007
 
Other income (expense):
           
Equity in earnings (losses) of investments
  $ (123,111 )   $ 35,916  
Realized gains from sale of investments
    -       24,696  
Unrealized gains (losses) of marketable equity securities
    5,000       (43,000 )
Interest expense
    (20,486 )     (10,933 )
Interest income
    -       3,629  
Loss on sale of fixed asset
    -       (713 )
Other than temporary decline in available-for-sale securities
    (1,150,025 )     -  
     $ (1,288,622 )   $ 9,595  
 
Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Investments

Equity in earnings of investments includes our share of earnings (losses) from investments in which we own at least 20% and are being accounted for using the equity method.

Unrealized Gains (Losses) of Marketable Equity Securities

These amounts represent the unrealized gains and losses recorded for our marketable equity securities.  The remainder of these securities were sold in 2008.

Realized Gains from Sale of Investments

Realized gains are recorded when investments are sold and include transactions in marketable equity securities in 2007.

Interest Expense

Interest expense increased in 2008 from 2007 primarily due to the need to borrow funds commencing in 2007 for due diligence and fund raising efforts associated with the potential acquisitions of HI and Texas Wings.
 
Other than Temporary Decline in Available-for-Sale Securities

The Company determined that its investment in available-for-sale securities had an other than temporary decline in value and recorded a realized loss in the amount of $1,150,025 at December 31, 2008.
 
RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

There are several new accounting pronouncements issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) which are not yet effective.  Each of these pronouncements, as applicable, has been or will be adopted by the Company.  Management does not believe any of these accounting pronouncements has had or will have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or operating results.

 
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In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 163, “Accounting for Financial Guarantee Insurance Contracts-an interpretation of SFAS 60”.  SFAS 163 clarifies how SFAS 60 applies to financial guarantee insurance contracts, including the recognition and measurement of premium revenue and claims liabilities. This statement also requires expanded disclosures about financial guarantee insurance contracts. SFAS 163 is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those years. SFAS 163 has no effect on the Company’s financial position, statements of operations, or cash flows at this time.

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles”.  SFAS 162 sets forth the level of authority to a given accounting pronouncement or document by category. Where there might be conflicting guidance between two categories, the more authoritative category will prevail. SFAS 162 will become effective 60 days after the SEC approves the PCAOB’s amendments to AU Section 411 of the AICPA Professional Standards. SFAS 162 has no effect on the Company’s financial position, statements of operations, or cash flows at this time.

In March 2008 the FASB issued SFAS 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities—an amendment of SFAS 133.”  This standard requires companies to provide enhanced disclosures about (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS 133 and its related interpretations, and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008, with early application encouraged. The Company has not yet adopted the provisions of SFAS 161, but does not expect it to have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements—an amendment of ARB 51.”  This statement amends ARB 51 to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. It clarifies that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary is an ownership interest in the consolidated entity that should be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements. Before this statement was issued, limited guidance existed for reporting noncontrolling interests. As a result, considerable diversity in practice existed. So-called minority interests were reported in the consolidated statement of financial position as liabilities or in the mezzanine section between liabilities and equity. This statement improves comparability by eliminating that diversity. This statement is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. Earlier adoption is prohibited. The effective date of this statement is the same as that of the related SFAS 141 (revised 2007). The Company will adopt this statement beginning January 1, 2009. It is not believed that this will have an impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 
14

 
 
In December 2007, the FASB, issued SFAS 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations.”  This Statement replaces SFAS 141, “Business Combinations,” but retains the fundamental requirements in SFAS 141.  This Statement establishes principles and requirements for how the acquirer: (a) recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree; (b) recognizes and measures the goodwill acquired in the business combination or a gain from a bargain purchase; and (c) determines what information to disclose to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. This statement applies prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008. An entity may not apply it before that date. The effective date of this statement is the same as that of the related SFAS 160.  The Company will adopt this statement beginning January 1, 2009. The Company will record an expense for the previously deferred acquisition costs of $279,050 pursuant to paragraph 59 of SFAS 141(R) on January 1, 2009.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The SEC issued Financial Reporting Release No. 60, “Cautionary Advice Regarding Disclosure about Critical Accounting Policies” (“FRR 60”), suggesting companies provide additional disclosure and commentary on their most critical accounting policies.  In FRR 60, the SEC defined the most critical accounting policies as the ones that are most important to the portrayal of a company’s financial condition and operating results, and require management to make its most difficult and subjective judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates of matters that are inherently uncertain.  Based on this definition our most critical accounting policy is the valuation of our investments.  The methods, estimates and judgments we use in applying this accounting policy has a significant impact on the results we report in our financial statements.

We determine fair value to be the amount for which an investment could be exchanged in an orderly disposition over a reasonable period of time between willing parties other than in a forced or liquidation sale.  Our valuation process is intended to provide a consistent basis for determining the fair value of our available-for-sale investments.  Paragraph 16 of SFAS No. 115, paragraphs 7 through 15 of FSP FAS 115-1/124-1 and SAB Topic 5.M provide guidance for measuring and recording the impairment of available-for-sale securities.  In summary, for individual securities classified as available-for-sale securities, an enterprise shall determine whether a decline in fair value below the amortized cost basis is other than temporary.  If the decline in fair value is judged to be  other than temporary, the cost basis of the individual security shall be written down to fair value as a new cost basis and the amount of the write-down shall be included in earnings (accounted for as a realized loss).  The new cost basis shall not be changed for subsequent recoveries in fair value.  Subsequent increases in the fair value of available-for-sale securities shall be included in other comprehensive income and subsequent decreases in fair value, if not an other-than-temporary impairment, also shall be included in other comprehensive income.
 
 
15

 

The first step in the analysis is to determine if the security is impaired.  Both of our available-for-sale securities are listed and we use the closing market price to determine the amount of impairment if any.  The second step, if there is an impairment, is to determine if the impairment is other than temporary.  SAB Topic 5.M provides in part that the following should be considered to determine if a decline in the value of an equity security is other than temporary and that a write-down of the carrying value is required:
 
·
The length of the time and the extent to which the market value has been less than the cost;
 
·
The financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, including any specific events which may influence the operations of the issuer such as changes in technology that may impair the earnings potential of the investment or the discontinuance of a segment of the business that may affect the future earnings potential; or
 
·
The intent and ability of the holder to retain its investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value.

Unless evidence exists to support a realizable value equal to or greater than the carrying value of the investment in equity securities classified as available-for-sale, a write-down to fair value accounted for as a realized loss should be recorded.  Such loss should be recognized in the determination of net income of the period in which it occurs and the written down value of the investment in the issuer becomes the new cost basis of the investment.

Investments in which the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence and that, in general, are at least 20 percent owned are stated at cost plus equity in undistributed net earnings (loss), less distributions received.  These investments are evaluated for impairment in accordance with the requirements of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 18, “The Equity Method of Accounting for Investments in Common Stock.”  An impairment loss would be recorded whenever a decline in the value of an equity investment or investment carried at cost below its carrying amount is determined to be other than temporary.  In judging “other than temporary,” the Company considers the length of time and extent to which the fair value of the investment has been less than the carrying amount of the investment, the near-term and long-term operating and financial prospects of the investee, and the Company’s long-term intent of retaining the investment in the investee.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

Not applicable.

TABULAR DISCLOSURE OF CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

Not applicable.
 
ITEM 7A:
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 
Not applicable.
 
 
16

 

ITEM 8: 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
 
CHANTICLEER HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
INDEX TO CONSOLIDTED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SCHEDULES
 
 
Page
   
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
19
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2008 and 2007
20
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2008 and 2007
21
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity at December 31, 2008 and 2007
22
23
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
25
 
 
17

 
 
CREASON & ASSOCIATES, P.L.L.C.
7170 S. Braden Ave., Suite 100
Tulsa, Oklahoma  74136

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders
Chanticleer Holdings, Inc.:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiary (the "Company") as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007.  These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). 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. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting.  Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.  Accordingly, we express no such opinion.  An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall consolidated financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

As discussed in Notes 1 and 4 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company revoked its status as a business development company and is now an operating company, which resulted in a change in reporting entity.

As described in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has restated its December 31, 2008 consolidated financial statements due to management’s determination that its available-for-sale securities were impaired at December 31, 2008, and that these impairments were other than temporary.  Consequently, the unrealized losses on these securities have been recognized in the restated consolidated statement of operations rather than being recognized in other comprehensive income as a separate component of equity in the Company’s amended Form 10-K/A.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiary as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiary will continue as a going concern.  As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. has two planned acquisitions which require substantial financing.  However, there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to obtain sufficient funding to conduct its business plan or if the acquisitions are completed will have sufficient revenues to fund its operations and commitments.  These conditions raise substantial doubt about Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiary’s ability to continue as a going concern.  Management’s plans regarding these matters are also described in Note 1.  The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that may result from the outcome of these uncertainties.
 
/s/Creason & Associates, P.L.L.C.

Tulsa, Oklahoma
March 2, 2009, except for Note 3, as to
     which the date is August 11, 2009
 
 
18

 

Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Balance Sheets
December 31, 2008 and 2007

   
2008
   
2007
 
   
(Restated
       
   
Note 3)
       
ASSETS
           
Current assets:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 14,151     $ 183  
Due from affiliate
    5,150       11,150  
Marketable securities
    -       65,000  
Prepaid expenses
    4,255       19,560  
Total current assets
    23,556       95,893  
Property and equipment, net
    36,161       45,537  
Investments at fair value
    108,545       1,016,566  
Other investments, principally accounted for under the equity method
    1,773,969       1,930,343  
Deferred acquisition costs
    279,050       -  
Deposits and other assets
    3,980       3,980  
TOTAL ASSETS
  $ 2,225,261     $ 3,092,319  
                 
LIABILITIES
               
Notes payable
  $ 500,000     $ 165,272  
Accounts payable
    178,325       25,555  
Accrued expenses
    500       4,150  
Due to related party
    7,300       -  
Deferred revenue
    -       128,555  
Bank overdraft
    -       25,736  
TOTAL LIABILITIES
    686,125       349,268  
Commitments and contingencies
               
                 
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
               
Common stock:  $0.0001 par value; authorized 200,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 946,376 shares and 833,232 shares at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively
    946       833  
Additional paid in capital
    4,642,347       3,849,767  
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    -       (242,005 )
Accumulated deficit
    (3,104,157 )     (865,544 )
      1,539,136       2,743,051  
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
  $ 2,225,261     $ 3,092,319  

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 
19

 

Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Statements of Operations
For the Years Ended December 31, 2008 and 2007

   
2008
   
2007
 
   
(Restated
       
   
Note 3)
       
Revenue:
           
Management fee income
           
Non-affiliates
  $ -     $ 39,380  
Affiliates
    234,055       491,867  
Total revenue
    234,055       531,247  
Expenses:
               
General and administrative expense
    1,131,830       819,361  
Asset impariment
    52,216       -  
Total expenses
    1,184,046       819,361  
Earnings (loss) from operations
    (949,991 )     (288,114 )
Other income (expense)
               
Equity in earnings (losses) of investments
    (123,111 )     35,916  
Realized gains from sales of investments
    -       24,696  
Unrealized gains (losses) of marketable equity securities
    5,000       (43,000 )
Interest expense
    (20,486 )     (10,933 )
Interest income
    -       3,629  
Loss on sale of fixed asset
    -       (713 )
Other than temporary decline in available-for-sale securities
    (1,150,025 )     -  
Total other income (expense)
    (1,288,622 )     9,595  
Net loss before income taxes
    (2,238,613 )     (278,519 )
Provision for income taxes
    -       -  
Net loss
    (2,238,613 )     (278,519 )
Other comprehensive income (loss):
               
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities
    -       (315,602 )
Net comprehensive loss
  $ (2,238,613 )   $ (594,121 )
                 
Net earnings (loss) per share, basic and diluted
  $ (2.46 )   $ (0.35 )
Weighted average shares outstanding
    911,162       799,553  

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 
20

 
 
Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity
Years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007
(Restated - - Note 3)

 
               
Accumulated
             
               
Other
             
         
Additional
   
Comprehensive
             
   
Common Stock
   
Paid-in
   
Income
   
Accumulated
       
   
Shares
   
Par
   
Capital
   
(Loss)
   
Deficit
   
Total
 
                                     
Balance, December 31, 2006
    768,946     $ 769     $ 2,799,831     $ 73,597     $ (587,025 )   $ 2,287,172  
Common stock issued for cash proceeds
    64,286       64       449,936       -       -       450,000  
Investment contributed by shareholder
    -       -       600,000       -       -       600,000  
Net changes in available-for-sale securities
    -       -       -       (315,602 )     -       (315,602 )
Net loss
    -       -       -       -       (278,519 )     (278,519 )
Balance, December 31, 2007
    833,232       833       3,849,767       (242,005 )     (865,544 )     2,743,051  
Common stock issued for:
                                               
Cash proceeds
    111,994       112       784,588       -       -       784,700  
Services
    1,150       1       7,992       -       -       7,993  
Available-for-sale securities:
                                               
Current year decline
    -       -       -       (908,020 )     -       (908,020 )
Other than temporary decline
    -       -       -       1,150,025       -       1,150,025  
Net loss
    -       -       -       -       (2,238,613 )     (2,238,613 )
Balance, December 31, 2008
    946,376     $ 946     $ 4,642,347     $ -     $ (3,104,157 )   $ 1,539,136  

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 
21

 

Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the Years Ended December 31, 2008 and 2007

   
2008
   
2007
 
   
(Restated
       
   
Note 3)
       
             
Cash flows from operating activities:
           
Net loss
  $ (2,238,613 )   $ (278,519 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in
               
operating activities:
               
Change in unrealized appreciation of investments
    (5,000 )     43,000  
Other than temporary decline in value of available-for-sale securities
    1,150,025       -  
Consulting and other services rendered in exchange for investment securities
    -       (553,600 )
Depreciation
    11,198       8,860  
Equity in earnings (losses) of investments
    123,111       (35,916 )
Asset impairment
    52,216       -  
Common stock issued for services
    7,993       -  
(Gain) loss on sale of investments
    -       (24,696 )
Loss on sale of fixed assets
    -       713  
Decrease in amounts due from affiliate
    6,000       20,331  
(Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets
    15,306       (1,212 )
Increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses
    149,120       16,750  
Increase (decrease) in deferred revenue
    (128,555 )     128,555  
Advance from related party
    7,300       -  
Net cash used in operating activities
    (849,899 )     (675,734 )
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Proceeds from sale of fixed assets
    -       270  
Proceeds from sale of investments
    50,000       181,166  
Investment distribution
    51,047       46,000  
Purchase of investments
    (120,000 )     (74,043 )
Purchase of fixed assets
    (1,822 )     (22,091 )
Deferred acquisition costs
    (279,050 )     -  
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities
    (299,825 )     131,302  
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Proceeds from sale of common stock
    784,700       450,000  
Loan proceeds
    404,728       95,272  
Loan repayment
    -       (150,704 )
Bank overdraft
    (25,736 )     25,736  
Net cash provided by financing activities
    1,163,692       420,304  
                 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    13,968       (124,128 )
                 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year
    183       124,311  
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year
  $ 14,151     $ 183  
 
(Continued)
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 
22

 

Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, continued
For the Years Ended December 31, 2008 and 2007

   
2008
   
2007
 
   
(Restated
       
   
Note 3)
       
             
Supplemental cash flow information:
           
Cash paid for interest and income taxes:
           
Interest
  $ 20,850     $ 10,233  
Income taxes
    -       -  
                 
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
               
Rescind acquisition of investment for note payable
  $ 70,000     $ -  
Investment contributed by shareholder
    -       600,000  
Exchange of note payable for investment
    -       70,000  
Reclassification of deposit as investment
    -       20,000  

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 
23

 

Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

1.
NATURE OF BUSINESS

ORGANIZATION

Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) was organized October 21, 1999, under its original name, Tulvine Systems, Inc., under the laws of the State of Delaware.  The Company previously had limited operations and in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) 7, “Accounting and Reporting by Development Stage Enterprises” was considered a development stage company until July 2005.  On April 25, 2005, the Company formed a wholly owned subsidiary, Chanticleer Holdings, Inc.  On May 2, 2005, Tulvine Systems, Inc. merged with and changed its name to Chanticleer Holdings, Inc.
 
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiary, Chanticleer Advisors, LLC, (“Advisors”) collectively referred to as “the Company,” “we,” “us,” or “the Companies”. All significant inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
 
On April 18, 2006, the Company formed Chanticleer Investors LLC (“Investors LLC”) and sold units for $5,000,000, of which the Company owns $1,150,000 (23%) as of December 31, 2008.  Investors LLC’s principal asset is a 6%, convertible note in the amount of $5,000,000 with Hooters of America, Inc. (“Hooters”), collateralized by and convertible into 2% of Hooters common stock.

Investors LLC receives 6% interest on its $5 million loan to HOA.  Investors LLC in turn pays the Company 2% of this interest or $100,000 in management fees and distributes the remaining 4% to each of the members in proportion to the members investment quarterly.

On July 31, 2006, the Company formed Chanticleer Investors II, LLC (“Investors II”).  Investors II began raising funds in January 2007 for the purpose of investing in publicly traded value securities.  In January 2007, the Company formed Advisors, as a wholly owned subsidiary to manage Investors II as well as the Company’s other investments.

 
24

 

INVESTMENT COMPANY

On May 23, 2005, the Company filed a notification on Form N54a with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) indicating its election to be regulated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”).  In connection with this election, the Company adopted corporate resolutions and operated as a closed-end management investment company as a business development company (a “BDC”).  Under this election, the Company was organized to provide investors with an opportunity to participate, with a modest amount in venture capital, in investments that are generally not available to the public and that typically require substantially larger financial commitments.  In addition, the Company provided professional management and administration that might otherwise be unavailable to investors if they were to engage directly in venture capital investing.  The Company decided to be regulated as a business development company under the 1940 Act, and operated as a non-diversified company as that term is defined in Section 5(b)(2) of the 1940 Act.  The Company could not change the nature of its business so as to cease to be, or withdraw its election as, a BDC without the approval of the holders of a majority of its outstanding voting stock as defined under the 1940 Act.

On July 21, 2008, the Company filed Form N-54C with the SEC to notify the SEC of the withdrawal of its previous election to be regulated as a BDC under applicable provisions of the 1940 Act.  After careful consideration of the 1940 Act requirements applicable to BDCs, evaluation of the Company’s ability to operate as a going concern in an investment company regulatory environment, the costs associated with complying with the 1940 Act and a thorough assessment of potential alternative business models, the Company’s Board of Directors determined that continuation as a BDC was not in the best interests of the Company or its stockholders.  With the approval of more than a majority of the voting power of its common stock, the Company proceeded to file Form N-54C and thereby revoked its BDC status.

GOING CONCERN

At December 31, 2008 and 2007, the Company had current assets of $23,556 and $95,893; current liabilities of $686,125 and $349,268; and negative working capital of $662,569 and $253,375, respectively.  The Company incurred a loss of $2,238,613 during the year ended December 31, 2008.  The Company receives quarterly cash inflow of $25,000 from management fees and $11,500 from investment distributions, but expects quarterly cash outflow of approximately $130,000 per quarter for 2009, assuming the acquisitions discussed in Note 12 are not completed.

The Company expects to meet its short-term requirements through the liquidation of one investment to raise approximately $42,000 in cash; return of the advance made for the development rights of Hooters restaurants in Nevada in the remaining amount of $70,000; and non-interest bearing advances from its CEO in the amount of $50,000.

The Company expects to have sufficient funding available from these sources until the possible second quarter of 2009 close of the acquisitions of HI and Texas Wings.  Subsequent to the close, the overhead requirements would be covered by distributions from the operations of HI and Texas Wings.

 
25

 

In the event the acquisitions do not close, the Company expects to have sufficient funds available to meet its requirements until May 2009, when the Company is scheduled to receive a distribution from an investment in the amount of approximately $1,275,000.  At that time, the Company plans to repay the line of credit, any other short-term borrowings and have sufficient cash to cover all overhead requirements for at least another year while increasing the funds which Advisors manages.

If the above events do not occur or if the Company does not raise sufficient capital, substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern exists.  These consolidated financial statements do not reflect any adjustments that might result from the outcome of these uncertainties.

2. 
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

USE OF ESTIMATES
 
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes.  Significant estimates include the valuation of the investments in portfolio companies and deferred tax asset valuation allowances.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
 
For purposes of the statements of cash flows, the Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

REVENUE RECOGNITION
 
The Company's current source of revenue is from management fees from both affiliated companies and non-affiliated companies.  Our revenue recognition follows the guidelines of SAB Topic 13.A.1, which provides that revenue is generally realized or realizable and earned when all of the following criteria have been met:
 
·
Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists;
 
·
Delivery has occurred or services have been rendered;
 
·
The seller's price to the buyer is fixed or determinable; and
 
·
Collectability is reasonably assured.
We may collect revenue in both cash and in the equity securities of the company to whom we are providing services.  Typically when we are paid cash for services, it is based on a monthly fee and is recorded when earned.  When we receive equity securities for our management services, we generally receive the securities in advance for our services to be earned over the life of the contract, generally one year.  We value these securities and defer recognition of the revenue over the life of the management contract.

 
26

 

Pursuant to EITF 00-8, the fair value of the equity instruments received was determined based upon the stock prices as of the date we reached an agreement with the third party.  The terms of the securities are not subject to adjustment after the measurement date.

MARKETABLE EQUITY SECURITIES

The Company’s investments are comprised of marketable equity securities which are classified as available-for-sale and are carried at fair value.  Investments available for current operations are classified in the consolidated balance sheets as current assets; investments held for long-term purposes are classified as non-current assets.  Unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, are reported in other comprehensive income as a separate component of shareholders’ equity.  Gains and losses are reported in the consolidated statements of operations when realized, determined based on the disposition of specifically identified investments.

Investments identified by the Company as being potentially impaired are subject to further analysis to determine if the impairment is other than temporary.  Other than temporary declines in market value from original costs are charged to investment and other income, net, in the period in which the loss occurs.  In determining whether investment holdings are other than temporarily impaired, the Company considers the nature, cause, severity and duration of the impairment.  The Company and its investment advisors used analyst reports, credit ratings or other items as part of its review.

OTHER INVESTMENTS

Investments in which the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence and that, in general, are at least 20 percent owned are stated at cost plus equity in undistributed net earnings (loss), less distributions received.  These investments are evaluated for impairment in accordance with the requirements of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 18, “The Equity Method of Accounting for Investments in Common Stock.”  An impairment loss would be recorded whenever a decline in the value of an equity investment or investment carried at cost below its carrying amount is determined to be other than temporary.  In judging “other than temporary,” the Company considers the length of time and extent to which the fair value of the investment has been less than the carrying amount of the investment, the near-term and long-term operating and financial prospects of the investee, and the Company’s long-term intent of retaining the investment in the investee.

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

SFAS 107, “Disclosures About Fair Value of Financial Instruments,” requires disclosure of fair value information about financial instruments when it is practicable to estimate that value.  The carrying amounts of the Company’s cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and notes payable approximate their estimated fair value due to the short-term maturities of these financial instruments and because related interest rates offered to the Company approximate current rates.

 
27

 

FIXED ASSETS
 
Fixed assets are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation.  Depreciation is recorded using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets (generally five and seven years).  The carrying amount of all long-lived assets is evaluated periodically to determine if adjustment to the depreciation and amortization period or the unamortized balance is warranted.  Based upon its most recent analysis, the Company believes that no impairment of property and equipment exists at December 31, 2008 and 2007.  Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations when incurred.  Betterments and renewals are capitalized.  When property and equipment are sold or otherwise disposed of, the asset account and related accumulated depreciation account are relieved, and any gain or loss is included in operations.

INCOME TAXES
 
The Company accounts for income taxes under SFAS 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.”  Under SFAS 109, deferred income taxes are provided on the liability method whereby deferred tax assets are recognized for deductible temporary differences and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards and deferred tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences.  Temporary differences are the differences between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax basis.  Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment.  Due to its limited operations, the Company has provided a valuation allowance for the full amount of the deferred tax assets.
 
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
 
In December 2004, the FASB issued SFAS 123R, “Share-Based Payment,” which requires that the compensation cost relating to share-based payment transactions (including the cost of all employee stock options) be recognized in the financial statements.  That cost is measured based on the estimated fair value of the equity or liability instruments issued. SFAS 123R covers a wide range of share-based compensation arrangements including share options, restricted share plans, performance-based awards, share appreciation rights and employee share purchase plans.  SFAS 123R replaces SFAS 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” and supersedes APB Opinion 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees.”  The Company adopted SFAS 123R in the 1st quarter of 2006.  Thus, the Company’s financial statements would reflect an expense for (a) all share-based compensation arrangements granted on or after January 1, 2006 and for any such arrangements that are modified, cancelled or repurchased after that date, and (b) the portion of previous share-based awards for which the requisite service has not been rendered as of that date, based on the grant-date estimated fair value.

 
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As of December 31, 2008 and 2007, there were no options outstanding.

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE

Earnings (loss) per common share are calculated under the provisions of SFAS 128, “Earnings per Share” requires the Company to report both basic earnings per share, which is based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding, and diluted earnings per share, which is based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding plus all potentially dilutive shares outstanding.  At December 31, 2008 and 2007, there are no exercisable common stock equivalents.  Accordingly, no common stock equivalents are included in the earnings (loss) per share calculations and basic and diluted earnings per share are the same for all periods presented.
 
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
 
SFAS 130, “Reporting Comprehensive Income,” establishes standards for reporting and displaying comprehensive income and its components (revenues, expenses, gains and losses) in a full set of general-purpose financial statements. It requires that all items that are required to be recognized under accounting standards as components of comprehensive income be reported in a financial statement that is displayed with the same prominence as other financial statements. SFAS 130 requires that an enterprise (a) classify items of other comprehensive income by their nature in financial statements, and (b) display the accumulated balance of other comprehensive income separately in the equity section of the balance sheet for all periods presented.
 
CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK

Cash is maintained at financial institutions, which at times, may exceed the FDIC insurance limit.

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

There are several new accounting pronouncements issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) which are not yet effective.  Each of these pronouncements, as applicable, has been or will be adopted by the Company.  Management does not believe any of these accounting pronouncements has had or will have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or operating results.

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 163, “Accounting for Financial Guarantee Insurance Contracts-an interpretation of SFAS 60”.  SFAS 163 clarifies how SFAS 60 applies to financial guarantee insurance contracts, including the recognition and measurement of premium revenue and claims liabilities. This statement also requires expanded disclosures about financial guarantee insurance contracts. SFAS 163 is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those years. SFAS 163 has no effect on the Company’s financial position, statements of operations, or cash flows at this time.

 
29

 

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles”.  SFAS 162 sets forth the level of authority to a given accounting pronouncement or document by category. Where there might be conflicting guidance between two categories, the more authoritative category will prevail. SFAS 162 will become effective 60 days after the SEC approves the PCAOB’s amendments to AU Section 411 of the AICPA Professional Standards. SFAS 162 has no effect on the Company’s financial position, statements of operations, or cash flows at this time.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities—an amendment of SFAS 133.”  This standard requires companies to provide enhanced disclosures about (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS 133 and its related interpretations, and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. This Statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008, with early application encouraged. The Company has not yet adopted the provisions of SFAS 161, but does not expect it to have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements—an amendment of ARB 51.”  This statement amends ARB 51 to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. It clarifies that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary is an ownership interest in the consolidated entity that should be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements. Before this statement was issued, limited guidance existed for reporting noncontrolling interests. As a result, considerable diversity in practice existed. So-called minority interests were reported in the consolidated statement of financial position as liabilities or in the mezzanine section between liabilities and equity. This statement improves comparability by eliminating that diversity. This statement is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. Earlier adoption is prohibited. The effective date of this statement is the same as that of the related SFAS 141 (revised 2007). The Company will adopt this Statement beginning January 1, 2009. It is not believed that this will have an impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 
30

 

In December 2007, the FASB, issued SFAS 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations.”  This statement replaces SFAS 141, “Business Combinations,” but retains the fundamental requirements in SFAS 141.  This Statement establishes principles and requirements for how the acquirer: (a) recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree; (b) recognizes and measures the goodwill acquired in the business combination or a gain from a bargain purchase; and (c) determines what information to disclose to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. This statement applies prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008. An entity may not apply it before that date. The effective date of this statement is the same as that of the related SFAS 160.  The Company will adopt this statement beginning January 1, 2009. The Company will record an expense for previously deferred acquisition costs of $259,050 pursuant to paragraph 59 of SFAS 141(R) on January 1, 2009.

3. 
RESTATEMENT

As more fully explained below, effective as of August 11, 2009, the Board of Directors of the Company concluded that the financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, as presented in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 6, 2009 should no longer be relied upon due to an error in reporting the Company's available-for-sale securities in such financial statements.

We determined that our available-for-sale investments were impaired at December 31, 2008 and that these impairments were other than temporary.  In accordance with the provisions of paragraph 16 of SFAS No. 115, paragraph 7 through 15 of FSP FAS 115-1/124-1, and SAB Topic 5.M, the other than temporary loss should be recorded as a realized loss in the statement of operations rather than being included in accumulated other comprehensive loss as an element of stockholders' equity.  The following table shows the items which changed as a result of the restatement and includes the balances as previously reported, the related adjustments and the restated balance.

   
December 31, 2008
 
   
As Previously
             
   
Reported
   
Adjustments
   
As Restated
 
Consolidated balance sheet:
                 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
  $ (1,150,025 )   $ 1,150,025     $ -  
Accumulated deficit
    (1,954,132 )     (1,150,025 )     (3,104,157 )
Total stockholders equity
    1,539,136       -       1,539,136  
                         
Consolidated statements of operations:
                       
Net loss
    (1,088,588 )     (1,150,025 )     (2,238,613 )
Other comprehensive loss
    (908,020 )     908,020       -  
Net comprehensive loss
    (1,996,608 )     (242,005 )     (2,238,613 )
                         
Net loss per share, basic and diluted
  $ (1.19 )   $ (1.27 )   $ (2.46 )
 
 
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4. 
CHANGE IN REPORTING ENTITY

From May 23, 2005 until July 21, 2008, the Company operated as a BDC under the 1940 Act.  As such, the Company was subject to different reporting requirements and methods of accounting for its investments.  With the reversion to an operating company, the Company is no longer subject to the requirements of a BDC and the Company was required pursuant to SFAS 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections” to retroactively modify its financial statements as if it were not subject to the requirements of a BDC during all periods presented.

The following reports the effect of the change on net earnings (loss), other comprehensive income and net earnings per-share for the year ended December 31, 2007:

   
2007
 
       
Net increase in net assets from operations
  $ 11,887  
Fair value increases recorded for other
       
investments
    (594,556 )
Fair value increases recorded for available-
       
for-sale securities now included in other
       
comprehensive earnings (loss)
    315,602  
Equity in earnings (loss) of investments
    (10,086 )
Net loss of wholly-owned subsidiary not
       
previously consolidated
    (1,366 )
Net loss
    (278,519 )
Other comprehensive income (loss):
       
As originally reported
    -  
Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-
       
sale securities
    (315,602 )
Net comprehensive income (loss)
  $ (594,121 )
         
Net earnings (loss) per share, basic and diluted:
       
As originally reported
  $ 0.01  
Restated
  $ (0.35 )

 
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5. 
INVESTMENTS

Investments are summarized as follows at December 31, 2008 and 2007:

   
2008
   
2007
 
Marketable equity securities:
           
Cost
  $ -     $ 70,000  
Unrealized loss
    -       (5,000 )
Total
    -       65,000  
                 
Available for sale securities:
               
Cost
    1,258,570       1,258,570  
Realized loss
    (1,150,025 )     -  
Unrealized loss
    -       (242,004 )
Total
    108,545       1,016,566  
                 
Other investments:
               
Investments using the equity method:
               
Balance, beginning of year
    1,410,482       1,420,566  
Equity in earnings (loss)
    (123,111 )     35,916  
Distributions received
    (46,000 )     (46,000 )
Balance, end of year
    1,241,371       1,410,482  
Investments at cost
    442,598       499,860  
Investment deposits
    90,000       20,000  
    $ 1,773,969     $ 1,930,342  

Equity investments consist of the following at December 31, 2008 and 2007:

 
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2008
   
2007
 
Carrying value:
           
Chanticleer Investors, LLC (23%)
  $ 1,150,000     $ 1,150,000  
First Choice Mortgage (33 1/3%) (a)
    41,371       210,482  
Confluence Partners, LLC (50%)
    50,000       50,000  
    $ 1,241,371     $ 1,410,482  
Equity in earnings (loss):
               
Chanticleer Investors, LLC
  $ 46,000     $ 46,000  
First Choice Mortgage
    (169,111 )     (10,084 )
    $ (123,111 )   $ 35,916  
Distributions:
               
Chanticleer Investors, LLC
  $ 46,000     $ 46,000  
                 
Undistributed losses included in accumulated deficit
  $ (208,629 )   $ (39,518 )

(a) liquidated in January 2009.

We have investments in the common stock of two companies which comprise the total of our available-for-sale securities, as follows:

         
Realized
   
Unrecognized
       
         
Holding
   
Holding
   
Fair
 
   
Cost
   
Loss
   
Losses
   
Value
 
December 31, 2008
                       
Special Projects Group
  $ 144,350     $ (112,943 )   $ -     $ 31,407  
Syzygy Entertainment, Ltd.
    1,114,220       (1,037,082 )     -       77,138  
    $ 1,258,570     $ (1,150,025 )   $ -     $ 108,545  
                                 
December 31, 2007
                               
Special Projects Group
  $ 144,350     $ -     $ (92,004 )   $ 52,346  
Syzygy Entertainment, Ltd.
    1,114,220       -       (150,000 )     964,220  
    $ 1,258,570     $ -     $ (242,004 )   $ 1,016,566  

The summarized financial data for Chanticleer Investors LLC, of which we own 23%, follows:

   
2008
   
2007
 
             
Revenue (interest income)
  $ 300,000     $ 300,000  
Gross profit
    300,000       300,000  
Income from continuing operations
    199,506       199,232  
Net income
    199,506       199,232  
 
 
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6. 
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

Property and equipment consists of the following at December 31, 2008 and 2007:

   
2008
   
2007
 
             
Office and computer equipment
  $ 25,488     $ 23,666  
Furniture and fixtures
    39,607       39,607  
      65,095       63,273  
Accumulated depreciation
    (28,934 )     (17,736 )
    $ 36,161     $ 45,537  

7. 
NOTES PAYABLE

At December 31, 2008 and 2007, the Company had notes payable as follows:

The Company has a line-of-credit with a bank in the amount of $500,000 which matures on June 3, 2009. The loan is guaranteed by the Chief Executive Officer of the Company and is collateralized by all inventory, chattel paper, accounts, equipment and general intangibles of the Company. The loan bears interest at 4% per annum at December 31, 2008.
  $ 500,000     $ 95,272  
                 
The Company had a one -year note with a company which was due September 15, 2008. The loan bears interest at 4% and was used to acquire an investment. The transaction was rescinded on June 30, 2008.
    -       70,000  
    $ 500,000     $ 165,272  
 
 
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8. 
INCOME TAXES

During the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, the provision for income taxes (all deferred) differs from the amounts computed by applying the U.S. Federal income tax rate of 34% to income before provision for income taxes as a result of the following:

   
2008
   
2007
 
             
Computed "expected" income tax expense (benefit)
  $ (761,100 )   $ (94,700 )
State income taxes, net of federal benefit
    (89,500 )     (11,100 )
Travel, entertainment and other
    7,400       (800 )
Valuation allowance
    843,200       106,600  
Income tax expense (benefit)
  $ -     $ -  

Significant components of net deferred income tax assets are as follows:

   
2008
   
2007
 
             
Investments
  $ (361,700 )   $ 93,100  
Net operating loss carryforwards
    (786,000 )     (397,600 )
Capital loss carryforwards
    (18,600 )     (18,600 )
Total deferred tax assets
    (1,166,300 )     (323,100 )
Valuation allowance
    1,166,300       323,100  
Net deferred tax assets
  $ -     $ -  

The Company has a net operating loss carryforward of approximately $2,067,000, which will expire at various dates beginning in 2024 through 2028, if not utilized.  The Company has a capital loss carryforward of $49,000 which expires in 2010 if not utilized.  The tax basis of investments exceeds their book cost by approximately $952,000.

9. 
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

The Company has 200,000,000 shares of its $0.0001 par value common stock authorized and 946,376 and 833,232 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  There are no warrants or options outstanding.

 
36

 
2008 Transactions

During the year ended December 31, 2008, the Company sold 111,994 shares of its common stock pursuant to its Offering Circular under Regulation E promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933 for proceeds in the amount of $784,700 and issued 1,150 shares for services valued at $7,993.

2007 Transactions

During the year ended December 31, 2007, the Company sold 64,286 shares of its common stock pursuant to its Offering Circular under Regulation E promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933 for proceeds in the amount of $450,000.

10.           RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Michael D. Pruitt, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, is also a Director of Syzygy Entertainment, Ltd. (SYZG).

The Company received a non-interest bearing advance in the amount of $7,300 from a company partly owned by Mr. Pruitt in December 2008.

During 2007, Mr. Pruitt contributed 300,000 shares of Syzygy Entertainment, Ltd. to the Company, which was valued by the investment committee at $600,000 on the dates contributed.  Mr. Pruitt will not receive additional compensation as a result of the transfers.

On July 31, 2006, the Company formed Investors II.  Investors II began raising funds in January 2007 for the purpose of investing in publicly traded value securities.

In January 2007, the Company formed Advisors as a wholly-owned subsidiary to manage Investors II, as well as other designated projects.

During the three months ended March 31, 2007, the Company sold its investment in two securities to Investors II for $21,775, which approximated market value on the transaction dates.  The Company realized a profit of $127 on the transactions.

On December 13, 2006, the Company completed the acquisition of a $50,000 investment in Investors LLC from Michael D. Pruitt, CEO, at its original cost and at the estimated market value at the time.  This increased the Company’s interest in Investors LLC from $1,100,000 (22%) to $1,150,000 (23%).  The Company recorded management fee income of $100,000 in 2008 and 2007 and $64,167 in 2006 from Investors LLC.

 
37

 

11.           COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

On February 22, 2007, the Company entered into a lease agreement jointly with Five Oaks Capital Partners, LLC to lease a total of 5,041 square feet, commencing March 26, 2007 through December 31, 2008.  The Company’s allocated share of the space is 2,000 square feet and its monthly base rent is $3,980 in 2008.  Five Oaks Capital Partners, LLC is the managing member of EE Investors, LLC, in which the Company is an investor.  The Company’s lease is continuing on a month-to-month basis.

On November 21, 2006, the Company entered into an option agreement with HOA to open and operate Hooters restaurants in the Republic of South Africa.  Negotiations are underway regarding a proposed development plan.

12.           HOOTERS, INC. AND TEXAS WINGS

PENDING ACQUISITIONS
Hooters, Inc.

On March 11, 2008, the Company entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement for the purchase of Hooters, Inc., Hooters Management Corporation and their related restaurants (collectively “HI”) from the nine current individual HI shareholders, many of whom will continue to stay involved in the ongoing operation as shareholders of Chanticleer.  The transaction is valued at approximately $55.1 million and could close in the second quarter of 2009.

The closing of the transaction is subject to Chanticleer raising the necessary debt and equity financing to complete the acquisition.  Chanticleer has retained an investment banking firm to assist in securing the equity capital necessary to close the proposed transaction.  Chanticleer has completed all other conditions and is in process of raising the necessary debt and equity financing to complete the transaction.  (See current status below).

HI was founded in 1983 and was the creator of the Hooters brand and concept.  In 1984, HI licensed Neighborhood Restaurants of America, n/k/a Hooters of America, Inc. (“HOA”), owned by a separate group of shareholders, to be its exclusive licensee in the development and expansion of its restaurant business.  In 2001 HI sold the Hooters trademarks and other related proprietary rights to HOA.  HI continues to own certain rights including a perpetual irrevocable license agreement with greatly reduced royalties, to operate its restaurants in its retained territories and, most importantly, to acquire franchisees within the Hooters system.  These rights will be acquired by Chanticleer as a part of the transaction.

Chanticleer has an existing relationship with HOA through its position as the lead investor in a $5 million, 6% convertible three-year promissory note from the Estate of Robert Brooks, the former Chairman of HOA.  This note is secured by and contains conversion options into 2% of HOA’s outstanding stock.  Chanticleer was also granted a right of first refusal and a right to match any equity financing proposed to, or sought by, HOA.  Additionally, Chanticleer currently holds an Option Agreement with HOA to open Hooters franchises in the Republic of South Africa which is under development.
 
38

 
HI currently owns and operates 22 restaurants, which comprise the highest average unit gross sales within the Hooters system, and includes locations in and around Tampa, Florida, Chicago, Illinois and the Manhattan regions, including the original Hooters restaurant located in Clearwater, Florida.  These are the operations of HI being acquired by Chanticleer.

Through December 31, 2008, the Company has recorded $279,050 in deferred acquisition costs related to the planned acquisition of HI.

Texas Wings

On July 8, 2008, the Company entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of Texas Wings Incorporated and its 45 related Hooters branded restaurants (collectively “Texas Wings”) for total consideration of approximately $106 million, including approximately $53 million in cash, approximately $37 million in Chanticleer common stock and convertible notes with an aggregate principal amount of approximately $16 million (the “Transaction”).

Chanticleer will create an operating company and combine Texas Wings with HI and its 22 Hooters restaurants, which the Company agreed to acquire in March 2008.

The Transaction is subject to a number of customary closing conditions and could close during the second quarter of 2009, concurrently with the closing of the HI acquisition.  (See current status below).

Current Status

The termination date for the Company’s pending acquisition of the stock of HI and certain of its related entities followed immediately by the subsequent acquisition of Texas Wings and certain of its related entities has passed.  To date the sellers have not exercised their rights to terminate the agreements and the Company continues to pursue consummation of these transactions.  There is no assurance that the Company will be able to close the pending acquisitions.

In addition, the commitment letters from certain financial institutions to provide one or more related entities of the Company the $85,000,000 Senior Secured Credit have expired, primarily due to the inability of the Company to raise the necessary equity portion of the financing at acceptable terms in today’s financial environment.  The Company continues to communicate with the financial institutions that agreed to provide the credit facility, as well as others; however, there can be no assurance that the Company will be successful in obtaining any financing or that the terms of any credit facility in the future will be acceptable to the Company.
 
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ITEM 9:
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.

ITEM 9A(T):
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures (restated)

In our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, originally filed on March 6, 2009, our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act")) were effective as of December 31, 2008, except for a lack of segregation of duties.  In connection with our decision to restate our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, performed a reevaluation and concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of December 31, 2008 as a result of the additional material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting as discussed below.

Under the PCAOB standards, a significant deficiency is a control deficiency, or combination of control deficiencies, that , in the Company's judgment, would adversely affect the ability to initiate, authorize, record, process, or report external financial data reliably in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles such that there is more than a remote likelihood that a misstatement of the annual or interim financial statements that is more than inconsequential will not be prevented or detected.  A material weakness is a significant deficiency, or combination of significant deficiencies, that, in our judgment, results in more than a remote likelihood that a material misstatement of the annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected.

The material weaknesses identified were:
 
·
Due to the limited number of accounting employees, the Company is unable to segregate all noncompatible duties, which would prevent one person from having significant control over the initiation, authorization and recording of transactions.  This condition is characteristic of all companies except those with large numbers of accounting personnel.  A mitigating control is the personal involvement of the members of the Board of Directors in the analysis and review of internal financial data, as well as the consultant retained by the Company to serve the functions of a controller for assistance and preparation of financial reporting.
 
·
An effective Audit Committee is an integral part to the integrity of the Company's financial reporting.  The responsibilities of the Audit Committee should be detailed in the Committee's charter and provided to its members.  These responsibilities should, at a minimum, require inquiry and awareness of current Company transactions, analysis of interim and annual financial data and review of minutes of the Board of Directors.  The Audit Committee's oversight and periodic investigation can serve as a mitigating control to the lack of segregation of duties inherent to companies with a limited number of personnel.  The current practices of the Company's Audit Committee do not fulfill these criteria.
 
40

 
 
·
We did not maintain effective control over the application, monitoring and reporting of the appropriate accounting policies related to available-for-sale securities.  Specifically, we did not take into account the other than temporary impairment of available-for-sale securities and did not record the other than temporary impairment as a realized loss rather than as a component of other comprehensive loss in stockholders' equity.

Our management has discussed these material weaknesses with our board of directors and has commenced the following remediation efforts to ensure that the significant deficiencies are mitigated.  The board of directors has reviewed the lack of segregation of duties issue and has determined it is not practical to add personnel merely to allow for segregation of noncompatible duties.  The Company already retains a third party consultant who acts as controller for the Company, who has no check signing authority and no access to assets, to oversee its reporting responsibilities.  In addition, as discussed below, the Company plans on expanding the duties of its Audit Committee, which will also further mitigate any perceived weakness due to a lack of segregation of duties.

The board of directors is updating the Audit Committee procedures and responsibilities and will require active participation from the Audit Committee.  This is expected to be completed before the end of 2009.

Management of the Company is working with its consultants to implement procedures to reduce the likely-hood of a reoccurrence of the miss-application of accounting procedures.

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we conducted an evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-15(e) and Rule 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act), as of December 31, 2008.  Based on the information set forth above, our management has determined that, as of the date of this report, we do not have effective disclosure controls and procedures.

Management's report on internal control over financial reporting

Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act.  The Company's internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company's management and Board of Directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements in accordance with the United States' generally accepted accounting principles (US GAAP), including those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and disposition 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 US GAAP and that receipts and expenditures 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.
 
41

 
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.
 
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our chief executive officer and our chief financial officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework established by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) as set forth in its Internal Control - Integrated Framework.  Based on our evaluation under the framework in Internal Control - Integrated Framework, and including the material weaknesses discussed above, our management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was not effective as of December 31, 2008.

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

There have been no significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect these controls during the quarter ended December 31, 2008, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

ITEM 9B:
OTHER INFORMATION

Not applicable.



 
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PART III

ITEM 10:
DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The following section sets forth the names, ages and current positions with the Company held by the Directors, Executive Officers and Significant Employees as of December 31, 2008; together with the year such positions were assumed.  There is no immediate family relationship between or among any of the Directors, Executive Officers or Significant Employees, and the Company is not aware of any arrangement or understanding between any Director or Executive Officer and any other person pursuant to which he was elected to his current position.  Each Executive Officer will serve until he or she resigns or is removed or otherwise disqualified to serve, or until his or her successor is elected and qualified.

Each Director will serve until he or she resigns or is removed or otherwise disqualified to serve or until his or her successor is elected.  The Company currently has four Directors.

NAME
 
AGE
 
POSITION
         
Michael D. Pruitt
 
48
 
President, CEO and Director since June 2005
         
Michael Carroll
 
60
 
Independent Director since June 2005
         
Brian Corbman
 
33
 
Independent Director since August 2005
     
 
 
Paul I. Moskowitz
 
52
 
Independent Director since April 2007

Michael D. Pruitt
Michael Pruitt, a long-time entrepreneur with a proven track record, possesses the expertise to evaluate potential investments, form key relationships and recognize a strong management team.  Mr. Pruitt founded Avenel Financial Group, a boutique financial services firm concentrating on emerging technology company investments.  The business succeeded immediately, and in order to grow Avenel Financial Group to its full potential and better represent the company's ongoing business model, he formed Avenel Ventures, an innovative technology investment and business development company.  In the late 1980s, Mr. Pruitt owned Southern Cartridge, Inc., which he eventually sold to MicroMagnetic, Inc., where he continued working as Executive Vice President and a Board member until Southern Cartridge was sold to Carolina Ribbon in 1992.  From 1992 to 1996, Mr. Pruitt worked in a trucking firm where he was instrumental in increasing revenues from $6 million to $30 million.  The firm was sold in 1996 to Priority Freight Systems.  Between 1997 and 2000, Mr. Pruitt assisted several public and private companies in raising capital, recruiting management and preparing companies to go public or be sold.  He was the CEO, President and Chairman of the Board of Onetravel Holdings, Inc. (formerly RCG Companies), a publicly traded holding company formerly listed on the AMEX.  Mr. Pruitt received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Coastal Carolina University in Conway, South Carolina, where he sits on the Board of Visitors of the Wall School of Business.   Mr. Pruitt is currently a director of Syzygy Entertainment, Ltd. and Greenstreet Energy, Inc.
 
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Michael Carroll
Michael Carroll currently owns and operates a sales and training consulting firm based in Richmond, Virginia.  Mr. Carroll has also served as a director for OneTravel Holdings, Inc., formerly RCG Companies Incorporated, since January of 2004.  He previously spent 22 years in the distribution business, 19 of which were in computer products distribution.  In 1978, Mr. Carroll founded MicroMagnetic, Inc., a computer supply distribution company that he sold to Corporate Express in 1997.  From 1997 to 1999, he was a division president at Corporate Express, a publicly traded business-to-business office products and service provider.  He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from The College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Brian Corbman
Brian Corbman is the managing director of Ardent Advisors, a consulting company he co-founded in 2003, that specializes in business strategy and corporate advisory services for emerging growth companies.  Mr. Corbman is in the process of becoming an Officer of Supervisory Jurisdiction under the Westor Capital broker dealer umbrella and services buy-side institutional investors via equity research, institutional trading execution and investment banking activities.  Previously, he was an institutional salesman at Fulcrum Global Partners and Banc of America Securities.  Prior to that, he gained valuable corporate experience working for GSI Commerce, a publicly traded company, where he was the sole corporate development analyst.  A Magna Cum Laude graduate of George Washington University in Washington, DC, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.  Mr. Corbman has also attained the NASD general securities principal Series 24, Series 7 and Series 63 licenses.

Paul I. Moskowitz
Paul Moskowitz is a Phi Beta Kappa of Vassar College and Cardozo Law School.  Mr. Moskowitz was a co-founder and partner of a successful New York law firm specializing in corporate and real estate law.  He became affiliated with The World Travel Specialist Group/The Lawyers’ Travel Service (“WTSG/LTS”) in 1988 and served as corporate counsel, representing the growing travel agency network in legal, real estate, and other business activities.  In 1989, he joined WTSG full time as President and Chief Operating Officer until March 2003, with his primary responsibilities including day-to-day operations which encompassed WTSG’s airline relationships and sales and marketing.  Mr. Moskowitz led the growth of WTSG to one of the top 20 U.S. travel management firms with more than 90 offices throughout the U.S.  Mr. Moskowitz is currently engaged as a consultant for another travel organization.

AUDIT COMMITTEE

The Board of Directors has determined that Michael Carroll meets the requirements of a financial expert and serves as Chairman of the Audit Committee.  Mr. Carroll is independent as specified in Item 7 (d)(3)(iv) of Schedule 14A under the Exchange Act.
 
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We have a separately designated standing audit committee established in accordance with Section 3 (a)(58)(A) of the Exchange Act, which is currently made up of Mr. Carroll and Mr. Corbman.

The primary responsibility of the Audit Committee is to oversee our financial reporting process on behalf of the Board of Directors and report the result of their activities to the Board. Such responsibilities shall include, but shall not be limited to, the selection and, if necessary, the replacement of our independent auditors and review and discussion with such independent auditors of (i) the overall scope and plans for the audit, (ii) the adequacy and effectiveness of the accounting and financial controls, including our system to monitor and manage business risks, and legal and ethical programs, and (iii) the results of the annual audit, including the financial statements to be included in our annual report on Form 10-K.

COMPLIANCE WITH SECTION 16(A) OF THE EXCHANGE ACT
 
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, requires our executive officers, directors and persons who own more than ten percent of our common stock to file initial reports of ownership and changes in ownership with the SEC.  Additionally, SEC regulations require that we identify any individuals for whom one of the referenced reports was not filed on a timely basis during the most recent fiscal year or prior fiscal years.  To the best of our knowledge, based solely on a review of reports furnished to us, each of the Directors timely filed any required Form 4’s during fiscal 2008.

CODE OF ETHICS

The Board of Directors of the Company adopted a Code of Ethics which was effective May 23, 2005, which was filed as Exhibit 14 to the Company’s Form 10-K/A dated December 31, 2007.

The Code of Ethics in general prohibits any officer, director or advisory person (collectively, "Access Person") of the Company from acquiring any interest in any security which we (i) are considering a purchase or sale thereof, (ii) are being purchased or sold by us, or (iii) are being sold short by us. The Access Person is required to advise us in writing of his or her acquisition or sale of any such security.

NOMINATING COMMITTEE

We do not currently have a standing nominating committee, or a committee performing similar functions.  The full Board of Directors currently serves this function.

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ITEM 11:
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors deliberates executive compensation matters to the extent they are not delegated to the Chief Executive Officer.
 
a.
Summary Compensation Table
 
The following table shows the compensation of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and each executive officer whose total cash compensation exceeded $100,000 for the three years ended December 31, 2008.

ANNUAL COMPENSATION

Name and Principal Position
 
Year
 
Salary
   
Bonus
   
Total
 
                       
Michael D. Pruitt (CEO since
 
2008
  $ 136,148     $ -     $ 136,148  
  June 2005) (1)
 
2007
  $ 41,917       -     $ 41,917  
   
2006
    -       -       -  
 
(1)
Mr. Pruitt did not receive any compensation during 2005 and 2006.  The 2008 compensation includes $8,000 in consulting fees after Mr. Pruitt temporarily discontinued his salary.

Required columns for stock awards, option awards, non-entity incentive plan compensation, change in pension value and nonqualified deferred compensation earnings and all other compensation are omitted from the table above as the amounts are all zero.

Mr. Pruitt did not receive compensation during our initial start-up phase as a BDC.  His compensation commenced in February 2007.  Our compensation for Directors is based on comparative compensation levels for similar positions and time requirements.

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS

The Company does not have any current employment agreements with its officers and directors. The Company intends to pay its Executives and Directors salaries, wages, or fees commensurate with experience and industry standards in relationship to the success of the company.

b.
Grants of plan-based awards table

There were no grants of plan-based awards during the year for the named individuals.

c.
Outstanding equity awards at fiscal year-end table

There were no outstanding equity awards at fiscal year-end for the named individuals.

 
46

 

d.
Option exercises and stock vested table

There were no option exercises during the year and no stock vested at fiscal year-end for the named individuals.

e.
Pension benefits

There are no pension plans.

f.
Nonqualified defined contribution and other nonqualified deferred compensation plans

There are no nonqualified defined contribution or other nonqualified deferred compensation plans.

g.
Potential payments upon termination or changes-in-control

There are no potential payments upon termination or changes-in-control for the named individuals.

h.
Compensation of directors

   
Directors Fee
 
    
Earned or Paid
 
Name
 
In Cash ($)
 
       
Michael Carroll
  $ 1,500  
         
Paul I. Moskowitz
    1,500  
 
Directors are generally compensated $1,500 for each meeting during the year.  Although there were no formal meetings during the year, Mr. Carroll and Mr. Moskowitz were paid $1,500 each.  Mr. Pruitt and Mr. Corbman do not currently receive director fees.

The columns for stock awards, option awards, non-equity incentive plan compensation, change in pension value and nonqualified deferred compensation earnings and all other compensation are omitted as there was no other form of compensation for the directors.

i.
Compensation committee interlocks and insider participation

The outside Directors serve on the compensation committee.

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j.
Compensation committee report

Based on the Compensation Discussion and Analysis required by Item 402(b) between the compensation committee and management, the compensation committee recommended to the Board of Directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in the 10-K.

ITEM 12:
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
 
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS

The following table indicates all persons who, as of February 10, 2009, the most recent practicable date, are known by us to own beneficially more than 5% of any class of our outstanding voting securities. As of February 10, 2009, there were 946,376 shares of our common stock outstanding. Except as otherwise indicated below, to the best of our knowledge, each person named in the table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the securities beneficially owned by them as set forth opposite their name.

   
Name and Address of
 
Amount and Nature of
       
Title of Class
 
Beneficial Owner
 
Beneficial Owner
   
% of Class
 
                 
Common
 
Palisades Master Fund, LP
    136,164       14.39 %
   
Harbour House, 2nd Floor
               
   
Waterfront Drive, P.O. Box 972
               
   
Road Town, Tortola D8
               
 
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT
 
The following table indicates the beneficial ownership of our voting securities of all Directors of the Company and all Executive Officers who are not Directors of the Company, and all officers and directors as a group, as of February 10, 2009, the most recent practicable date.  As of February 10, 2009, there were 946,376 shares of our common stock outstanding. Except as otherwise indicated below, to the best of our knowledge, each person named in the table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the securities beneficially owned by them as set forth opposite their name.  All options are currently exercisable, unless otherwise indicated.

 
48

 

   
Name and Address of
 
Amount and Nature of
       
Title of Class
 
Beneficial Owner
 
Beneficial Owner
   
% of Class
 
                 
Common
 
Michael D. Pruitt
    168,615       17.82 %
   
4500 Cameron Valley Parkway, # 270
               
   
Charlotte, NC  28211
               
                     
Common
 
Michael Carroll
    2,500       *  
   
4500 Cameron Valley Parkway, # 270
               
   
Charlotte, NC  28211
               
                     
Common
 
Paul I. Moskowitz
    100       *  
   
4500 Cameron Valley Parkway, # 270
               
   
Charlotte, NC  28211
               
                     
Common
 
Brian Corbman
    2,550       *  
   
4500 Cameron Valley Parkway, # 270
               
   
Charlotte, NC  28211
               
                     
Common
 
All officers and directors as a
    173,765       18.36 %
   
 Group (4 persons)
               
 
*
Less than 1%.
 
EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION

We do not currently have an equity compensation plan.

ITEM 13:
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

Michael D. Pruitt, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, is also a Director of Syzygy Entertainment, Ltd. (SYZG).

The Company received a non-interest bearing advance in the amount of $7,300 from a company partly owned by Mr. Pruitt in December 2008.

During 2007, Mr. Pruitt contributed 300,000 shares of Syzygy Entertainment, Ltd. to the Company, which was valued by the investment committee at $600,000 on the dates contributed.  Mr. Pruitt will not receive additional compensation as a result of the transfers.

On July 31, 2006, the Company formed Investors II.  Investors II began raising funds in January 2007 for the purpose of investing in publicly traded value securities.

In January 2007, the Company formed Advisors as a wholly-owned subsidiary to manage Investors II, as well as other designated projects.  The Company has advanced $15,443 to Advisors for legal expenses and has included this amount as the investment cost of this entity.

During the three months ended March 31, 2007, the Company sold its investment in two securities to Investors II for $21,775, which approximated market value on the transaction dates.  The Company realized a profit of $127 on the transactions.
 
49

 
On December 13, 2006, we completed acquisition of a $50,000 investment in Investors LLC from Mr. Pruitt, at its original cost and at the estimated market value at the time.  This increased our interest in Investors LLC from $1,100,000 (22%) to $1,150,000 (23%).  The Company recorded management fee income of $100,000 in 2008 and 2007 and $64,167 in 2006 from Investors LLC.

ITEM 14:
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

AUDIT FEES: For the fiscal years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, Creason & Associates, P.L.L.C. (“Creason”) billed the Company $27,750 and $60,300, respectively, for services rendered through February 15, 2009, for the audit of the Company’s financial statements included in its report on Form 10-K and the reviews of the financial statements included in its reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC.

AUDIT RELATED FEES: None.

TAX FEES: Not applicable.

OTHER FEES: None.

 
50

 

PART IV

ITEM 15:
EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

 
(a)
The following documents are filed as part of this report:
 
1.
Financial Statements – The following financial statements of Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. are contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K/A:
 
·
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
·
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2008 and 2007
 
·
Consolidated Statements of Operations – For the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007
 
·
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity at December 31, 2008 and 2007
 
·
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – For the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007
 
·
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 
2.
Financial Statement Schedules were omitted, as they are not required or are not applicable, or the required information is included in the Financial Statements.

 
3.
Exhibits – The following exhibits are filed with this report or are incorporated herein by reference to a prior filing, in accordance with Rule 12b-32 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Exhibit
 
Description
 
   
31.1
 
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
     
32.1
 
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, 18 U.S.C. Section 1350
 
 
51

 

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized on January 21, 2010.

 
CHANTICLEER HOLDINGS, INC.
     
 
By: /s/
Michael D. Pruitt
   
Michael D. Pruitt, Chairman,
   
  Chief Executive Officer and
   
  Chief Financial Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Date
Title (Capacity)
Signature
     
January 21, 2010
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer
/s/ Michael D. Pruitt
 
and Chief Financial Officer
     Michael D. Pruitt
     
January 21, 2010
Director
/s/ Michael Carroll
   
     Michael Carroll
     
January 21, 2010
Director
/s/ Brian Corbman
   
     Brian Corbman
     
January 21, 2010
Director
/s/ Paul I. Moskowitz
   
     Paul I. Moskowitz

 
52