A Maryland Registration Rights Agreement is a legally binding document entered into between VIA Net. Works, Inc. (the Company) and certain stockholders (Investors) to grant certain rights pertaining to the registration of securities owned by the Investors. This agreement is crucial when a company goes public or undertakes an offering to raise capital, enabling the Investors to register and sell their securities in compliance with applicable securities laws. It provides a framework for the Investors to exercise their registration rights and ensures transparency and fairness in the process. The Maryland Registration Rights Agreement includes various provisions that protect the rights of the Investors. These provisions may include: 1. Demand Registration Rights: The Investors have the right to request the Company to file a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the sale of their securities. The agreement specifies the procedures and conditions under which such a demand can be made. 2. Piggyback Registration Rights: If the Company intends to register additional securities for public sale, it is obligated to give the Investors an opportunity to include their securities in the registration statement. This provision allows the Investors to "piggyback" on the Company's registration. 3. Shelf Registration Rights: In certain circumstances, the Investors may be entitled to have their securities registered on a shelf registration statement. This allows the Investors to offer and sell their securities at their discretion and timing, subject to compliance with applicable regulations. 4. Registration Expenses: The agreement outlines how the registration expenses, such as legal fees and SEC filing fees, will be allocated between the Company and the Investors. Generally, the Company bears the expenses, unless specific conditions stated in the agreement are met. 5. Indemnification: The agreement typically includes provisions that indemnify the Investors against any losses, damages, or expenses arising from the inaccuracies or omissions in the registration statement. 6. Termination: The agreement defines the circumstances under which the registration rights granted to the Investors can be terminated, such as when all of their securities have been sold or a specified time period has elapsed. Different types of Maryland Registration Rights Agreements may exist, depending on the specific terms negotiated between the Company and the Investors. Each agreement can vary in its provisions, duration, and scope to meet the specific needs and circumstances of the parties involved. It is essential for both the Company and the Investors to thoroughly understand the terms and implications of the agreement before entering into it. In conclusion, a Maryland Registration Rights Agreement between VIA Net. Works, Inc. and certain stockholders grants rights to the Investors for the registration and sale of their securities. It ensures compliance with securities laws, facilitates transparency, and protects the interests of both parties involved in the agreement.