As an outsider to this thread with no prior knowledge of RSM or interest ( financial ) I have just finished reading ALL of the posts as I was interested to see if there was a good ending. It has taken all of my spare time tonight though.
My personal observations are that the RSM is likely struggling with cash flow and also with technical production.
They established a business in a very challenging environment with plant and personnel issues that the modern West cannot compare.
They are attempting to produce something unique and maybe have over-estimated their capabilities.
They have a goal and are doing their best to achieve perfection.
However, as a young developing business they must ensure their customers are treated with respect and full transparency.
No-one I believe is inferring dishonesty, but must be thinking that, and judging by the poor communications, for which I see no excuse whatsoever, accurate information relating to firm orders, payments and shipments has to be a priority.
I also see that there is more concern about inaccurate data or no data rather than disappointing data w.r.t. long overdue shipdates.
Using an excuse of lack of English is unacceptable as Spanish would suffice in the absence of English speaking personnel in the plant.
There are enough translation packages / software that would give customers a reasonable translation.
There are now bad reports on the web that will discourage new business and will be seriously damaging, globally, for a start-up company.
If it is true that all orders have been fullfilled and problems resolved ( eventually ) then RSM doesn't want this thread to continue BUT anyone who has made a substantial investment must be priority and if cash has to be refunded then it has to be top of their "to do" list.
Companies requiring up front investment / prepayment definitely have issues with their banks or investors but that doesn't mean they are bad companies.
It does however pose a real risk if the company cannot stay afloat for reasons outside of its immediate control. Corrupt officials in some countries can kill a business by delaying approvals, block shipments in and out or apply unfair practices. Who can tell if there are local problems that cannot be mentioned ?
I fully sympathise with those who are worried about the prospects of losing thousands of dollars.
I sincerely hope that this doesn't happen.
Investing in start-ups in Emerging Economies will always carry a huge degree of risk so is not for everyone.
Who could have seen the collapse of Lehmann, an AAA rated USA / international bank ?
Unfortunately nothing is guaranteed and there are risks everywhere but many things do eventually sort themselves out with patience.
Just wanted to say my piece for what it's worth to give hope to both sides.