SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-QSB
|X| QUARTERLY REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended April 30, 2006
OR
|_| TRANSITION REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission File Number: 0-13078
CAPITAL GOLD CORPORATION
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(Exact name of small business issuer as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE 13-3180530
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(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
76 Beaver Street, 26TH floor, New York, NY 10005
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(Address of principal executive offices)
Issuer's telephone number: (212) 344-2785
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(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed
since last report)
Check whether the issuer (1) filed all reports required to be filed by Section
13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act 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 |_|
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in
Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes |_| No |X|
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of
common equity as of the latest practicable date.
Class Outstanding at June 19, 2006
---------------------------------------- ----------------------------
Common Stock, par value $.0001 per share 131,464,218
Transitional Small Business Format (check one); Yes |X| No |_|
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The accompanying financial statements are unaudited for the interim
periods, but include all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring
adjustments), which we consider necessary for the fair presentation of results
for the three and nine months ended April 30, 2006.
Moreover, these financial statements do not purport to contain complete
disclosure in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and
should be read in conjunction with our audited financial statements at, and for
the fiscal year ended July 31, 2005.
The results reflected for the three and nine months ended April 30,
2006 are not necessarily indicative of the results for the entire fiscal year.
-2-
CAPITAL GOLD CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE ENTERPRISE)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
(UNAUDITED)
April 30,
ASSETS 2006
------------
Current Assets:
Cash and Cash Equivalents $ 3,900,150
Loans Receivable - Affiliate (Note 7) 39,495
Prepaid Assets 31,725
Marketable Securities (Note 2) 110,000
Deposit 250,000
Other Current Assets (Note 3) 4,345,350
------------
Total Current Assets 8,676,720
------------
Mining Concessions (Note 6) 70,104
------------
Property & Equipment - net (Note 4) 986,435
------------
Intangible Assets - net (Note 5) 14,833
------------
Other Assets:
Other Investments (Note 8) 21,480
Deferred Financing Costs 240,000
Mining Reclamation Bonds 35,550
Other 43,047
Derivative Contracts (Note 15) 437,790
Security Deposits 9,605
------------
Total Other Assets 787,472
------------
Total Assets $ 10,535,564
============
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current Liabilities:
Accounts Payable $ 225,899
Accrued Expenses 237,093
------------
Total Current Liabilities 462,992
------------
Commitments and Contingencies
Stockholders' Equity:
Common Stock, Par Value $.0001 Per Share;
Authorized 200,000,000 shares; Issued and
Outstanding 131,464,218 Shares 13,146
Additional Paid-In Capital 40,309,930
Deficit Accumulated in the Development Stage (29,799,967)
Deferred Financing Costs (Note 12) (522,541)
Deferred Compensation (9,878)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss 81,882
------------
Total Stockholders' Equity 10,072,572
------------
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity $ 10,535,564
============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
-3-
CAPITAL GOLD CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE ENTERPRISE)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
(UNAUDITED)
For The Three Months Ended For The Nine Months Ended For the Period
April 30, April 30, September 17, 1982
------------------------------ ------------------------------ (Inception)
To
2006 2005 2006 2005 April 30, 2006
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Revenues $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ --
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Costs and Expenses:
Mine Expenses 487,271 129,404 1,528,653 446,459 9,192,561
Write-Down of Mining,
Milling and Other Property
and Equipment -- -- -- -- 1,299,445
Selling, General and
Administrative
Expenses 662,803 286,114 1,377,104 663,212 11,240,071
Stock Based Compensation 6,585 -- 6,585 187,844 9,416,432
Depreciation and Amortization 7,663 1,030 27,000 1,030 402,157
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Total Costs and Expenses 1,164,322 416,548 2,939,342 1,298,545 31,550,666
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Loss from Operations (1,164,322) (416,548) (2,939,342) (1,298,545) (31,550,666)
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Other Income (Expense):
Interest Income 44,616 15,420 85,396 16,070 881,394
Miscellaneous -- 3,782 -- 11,782 36,199
Gain on Sale of Property and
Equipment -- -- -- -- 46,116
Gain on Sale of Subsidiary -- -- -- -- 1,907,903
Option Payment -- -- -- -- 70,688
Loss on change in fair value
of derivative (362,210) (362,210) (362,210)
Loss on Write-Off of
Investment -- -- -- -- (10,000)
Loss on Joint Venture -- -- -- -- (901,700)
Loss on Option -- -- -- -- (50,000)
Gain (Loss) on Other
Investments -- -- -- -- (3,697)
Loss on Write -Off of
Minority Interest -- -- -- -- (150,382)
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Total Other Income (Expense) (317,594) 19,202 (276,814) 27,852 1,464,311
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Loss Before Minority Interest (1,481,916) (397,346) (3,216,156) (1,270,693) (30,086,355)
Minority Interest -- -- -- -- 286,388
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Net Loss $ (1,481,916) $ (397,346) $ (3,216,156) $ (1,270,693) $ (29,799,967)
============= ============= ============= ============= =============
Net Loss Per Common Share -
Basic and Diluted $ (0.01) $ (0.01) $ (0.03) $ (0.02)
============= ============= ============= =============
Weighted Average Common
Shares
Outstanding 124,884,443 64,935,479 105,698,556 68,992,367
============= ============= ============= =============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
-4-
CAPITAL GOLD CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE ENTERPRISE)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED THROUGH APRIL 30, 2006
Deficit
Accumulated Accumulated
Additional Deferred Deferred Other During Total
Common Stock paid-in- Financing Compensation Comprehensive Development Stockholder
Shares Amount capital Costs Costs Income/(Loss) Stage Equity
----------- ----------- ---------- ---------- ------------ ------------ ------------ -----------
Balance at July 31, 2005 95,969,216 95,969 31,851,724 (252,541) -- 157,714 (26,583,811) 5,269,055
Change in par value
to $0.0001 -- (86,372) 86,372 -- -- -- -- --
Deferred Financing
Costs 1,000,000 100 269,900 (270,000) -- -- -- --
Issuance of common stock
upon warrant and option
exercises, net 4,355,002 435 715,385 -- -- -- 715,820
Issuance of common stock
upon warrant and option
exercises, net 8,600,000 860 2,372,740 -- -- -- 2,373,600
Private placement, net 21,540,000 2,154 4,997,346 -- -- -- 4,999,500
Warrants issued for
services 16,463 (9,878) 6,585
Unrealized loss on
marketable securities -- -- -- -- (40,000) -- (40,000)
Equity adjustment from
foreign currency
translation -- (35,832) (35,832)
Net loss for the nine
months ended April 30,
2006 -- -- -- -- -- (3,216,156) (3,216,156)
----------- ----------- ---------- ---------- ------------ ------------ ------------ -----------
Balance - April 30, 2006 131,464,218 13,146 40,309,930 (522,541) (9,878) 81,882 (29,799,967) 10,072,572
=========== =========== ========== ========== ============ = =========== ============ ===========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
-5-
CAPITAL GOLD CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE ENTERPRISE)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)
For The For The Period
Nine Months Ended September 17, 1982
April 30, (Inception) To
2006 2005 April 30, 2006
------------ ------------ ------------------
Cash Flow From Operating Activities:
Net Loss $ (3,216,156) $ (1,270,694) $ (29,799,967)
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Loss to
Net Cash Used in Operating Activities:
Depreciation and Amortization 27,000 1,030 410,727
Gain on Sale of Subsidiary -- -- (1,907,903)
Minority Interest in Net Loss of Subsidiary -- -- (286,388)
Write-Down of Impaired Mining, Milling and Other --
Property and Equipment -- -- 1,299,445
Gain on Sale of Property and Equipment -- -- (46,116)
Loss on change in fair value of derivative 362,210 362,210
Loss on Write-Off of Investment -- -- 10,000
Loss on Joint Venture -- -- 901,700
Loss on Write-Off of Minority Interest -- -- 150,382
Value of Common Stock and Warrants Issued for
Services -- 29,260 2,843,153
Stock Based Compensation 6,585 158,584 9,387,172
Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities:
(Increase) Decrease in Prepaid Expenses (12,734) 2,825 (12,734)
(Increase) Decrease in Other Current Assets (5,104,501) (41,355) (5,127,337)
(Increase) in Other Deposits (286,000) (54,000) (384,000)
Decrease in Other Assets 755 -- (42,668)
(Increase) in Security Deposits -- -- (9,605)
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable 133,859 13,221 309,111
Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Expenses 46,317 (11,758) 17,351
------------ ------------ ------------------
Net Cash Used in Operating Activities (8,042,665) (1,172,887) (21,925,467)
------------ ------------ ------------------
Cash Flow From Investing Activities:
(Increase) in Other Investments (260) (7,825) (21,740)
Purchase of Mining, Milling and Other Property and
Equipment (238,541) (264,240) (2,619,398)
Purchase of Concessions -- -- (25,324)
Investment in Intangibles -- -- (18,531)
Proceeds on Sale of Mining, Milling and Other Property
and Equipment -- -- 83,638
Proceeds From Sale of Subsidiary -- -- 2,131,616
Expenses of Sale of Subsidiary -- -- (101,159)
Advance Payments - Joint Venture -- -- 98,922
Investment in Joint Venture -- -- (101,700)
Investment in Privately Held Company -- -- (10,000)
Net Assets of Business Acquired (Net of Cash) -- -- (42,130)
Investment in Marketable Securities -- -- (50,000)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
-6-
CAPITAL GOLD CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE ENTERPRISE)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED) - cont'd
For The For The Period
Nine Months Ended September 17, 1982
April 30, (Inception)
To
2006 2005 April 30, 2006
----------- ------------ ------------------
Net Cash Provided By (Used in) Investing Activities (238,801) (272,065) (675,806)
----------- ------------ ------------------
Cash Flow From Financing Activities:
Advances to Affiliate (8,075) (1,037) (43,072)
Proceeds of Borrowings - Officers -- -- 18,673
Repayment of Loans Payable - Officers -- -- (18,673)
Proceeds of Note Payable -- -- 11,218
Payments of Note Payable -- -- (11,218)
Proceeds From Issuance of Common Stock 8,088,920 7,371,829 26,824,845
Commissions on Sale of Common Stock -- -- (5,250)
Deferred Finance Costs (140,000) (100,000) (240,000)
Expenses of Initial Public Offering -- (637,990) (408,763)
Capital Contributions - Joint Venture Subsidiary -- -- 304,564
Purchase of Certificate of Deposit - Restricted -- -- (5,000)
Purchase of Mining Reclamation Bonds -- -- (30,550)
----------- ------------ ------------------
Net Cash Provided By Financing Activities 7,940,845 6,632,802 26,396,774
----------- ------------ ------------------
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes (40,776) (28,176) 104,650
----------- ------------ ------------------
Increase (Decrease) In Cash and Cash Equivalents (381,398) 5,159,674 3,900,150
Cash and Cash Equivalents - Beginning 4,281,548 208,443 --
----------- ------------ ------------------
Cash and Cash Equivalents - Ending $ 3,900,150 $ 5,368,117 $ 3,900,150
=========== ============ ==================
Supplemental Cash Flow Information:
Cash Paid For Interest $ -- $ -- $ --
=========== ============ ==================
Cash Paid For Income Taxes $ 7,731 $ -- $ 39,886
=========== ============ ==================
Non-Cash Financing Activities:
Issuances of Common Stock as Commissions
on Sales of Common Stock $ -- $ 23,240 $ 440,495
=========== ============ ==================
Issuance of common stock as payment for financing costs $ 270,000 $ -- $ --
=========== ============ ==================
Issuance of common stock warrants as compensation $ 16,463 $ -- $ 16,463
=========== ============ ==================
Issuance of common stock and warrants as payment for
Expenses $ -- $ -- $ 192,647
=========== ============ ==================
Issuance of Common Stock as Payment for Mining,
Milling and Other Property and Equipment $ -- $ -- $ 4,500
=========== ============ ==================
Exercise of Options as Payment of Accounts Payable $ -- $ -- $ 36,000
=========== ============ ==================
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
-7-
CAPITAL GOLD CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE ENTERPRISE)
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE 1 - Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include
the accounts of Capital Gold Corporation and its subsidiaries, which are wholly
and majority owned. All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have
been eliminated in consolidation.
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been
prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for
interim financial information and with instructions to Form 10-QSB. Accordingly,
they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S.
generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In
the opinion of the Company's management, the accompanying condensed consolidated
financial statements reflect all adjustments (which include only normal
recurring adjustments) necessary to present fairly the condensed consolidated
financial position and results of operations and cash flows for the periods
presented.
Results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the
results of operations for a full year.
The condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going
concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and satisfaction of
liabilities in the normal course of business. The Company is a development stage
enterprise and has recurring losses from operations and operating cash
constraints that raise substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue
as a going concern.
NOTE 2 - Marketable Securities
Marketable securities are classified as current assets and are summarized as
follows:
Marketable equity securities, available-for-sale, at cost $ 50,000
===========
Marketable equity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value $ 110,000
===========
NOTE 3 - Other Current Assets
Other current assets consist of the following at April 30, 2006:
Cash Collateral on Project Facility (Note 12) $ 4,267,445
Other current assets 77,905
-----------
Total Other Current Assets 4,345,350
===========
NOTE 4 - Property and Equipment
Property and Equipment consist of the following at April 30, 2006:
Improvements $ 15,797
Building 116,000
Construction in progress 218,666
Equipment Held for Resale 393,829
Equipment 75,756
Water Well 141,242
Vehicle 43,125
Office Equipment 12,266
-8-
CAPITAL GOLD CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE ENTERPRISE)
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE 4 - Property and Equipment (continued)
Furniture 1,843
----------
Total 1,018,524
Less: accumulated depreciation (32,089)
----------
Fixed assets, net $ 986,435
==========
Depreciation expense for the nine months ending April 30, 2006 and 2005 was
$23,902 and $1,030, respectively. See Note 14 for details on sale of equipment
held for resale.
In March 2006, the Company made a $250,000 down payment to a US supplier to
acquire a new crushing system, including conveyors, for use at its El Chanate
project. The total price for this equipment is approximately $1,164,000. The
Company is required to purchase the equipment by the end of the third quarter of
2006, or the supplier is entitled to retain the down payment. As the Company has
adequate funds to purchase this equipment, it anticipates purchasing the
equipment within the requisite time period.
NOTE 5 - Intangible Assets
Investment in Right of Way $ 18,620
Less: accumulated amortization (3,787)
----------
Intangible assets, net $ 14,833
==========
Amortization expense for the nine months ending April 30, 2006 and 2005 was
$3,098 and $ 0, respectively.
NOTE 6 - Mining Concessions
Mining concessions consist of the following:
El Charro $ 25,324
El Chanate 44,780
----------
Total $ 70,104
==========
The El Chanate exploitation and exploration concessions are carried at
historical cost and were acquired in connection with the purchase of the stock
of Minera Chanate, S.A. de C.V. The Company acquired an additional mining
concession - El Charro. El Charro lays within the current El Chanate property
boundaries. The Company is required to pay a 1 1/2% net smelter royalty in
connection with the El Charro concession.
NOTE 7 - Loans Receivable - Affiliate
Loans receivable - affiliate consist of expense reimbursements from a
publicly-owned corporation in which the Company has an investment (see Notes 2 &
10). In addition, the Company's president and chairman of the board of directors
is an officer and director of that corporation. These loans are non-interest
bearing and due on demand.
NOTE 8 - Other Investments
Other investments are carried at cost and consist of tax liens purchased on
properties located in Lake County, Colorado.
-9-
CAPITAL GOLD CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE ENTERPRISE)
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE 9 - Other Comprehensive Income(Loss)-Supplemental Non-Cash Investing
Activities
Other comprehensive income (loss) consists of accumulated foreign translation
gains and losses and unrealized gains and losses on marketable securities and is
summarized as follows:
Balance - July 31, 2004 $ 88,739
Equity Adjustments from Foreign
Currency Translation 28,975
Unrealized Gains on Marketable
Securities 40,000
---------
Balance - July 31, 2005 157,714
Equity Adjustments from Foreign
Currency Translation (35,832)
Unrealized Gains (loss) on Marketable
Securities (40,000)
---------
Balance - April 30, 2006 $ 81,882
=========
NOTE 10 - Related Party Transactions
In August 2002, the Company purchased marketable equity securities of a related
company. The Company recorded approximately $8,100 and $7,150 in expense
reimbursements including office rent from this entity for the nine months ended
April 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively (see Notes 2 and 7). The Company utilizes
a Mexican Corporation 100% owned by two officers/Directors and stockholders of
the Company for mining support services. These services include but are not
limited to the payment of mining salaries and related costs. The Mexican
Corporation bills the Company for these services at cost. Mining expenses
charged by the Mexican Corporation and reported on the statement of operations
amounted to approximately $85,000 and $ -0- for the nine months ended April 30,
2006 and 2005, respectively.
NOTE 11 - Stockholders' Equity
Common Stock
At various stages in the Company's development, shares of the Company's common
stock have been issued at fair market value in exchange for services or property
received with a corresponding charge to operations, property and equipment or
additional paid-in capital depending on the nature of the services provided or
property received.
During the nine months ended April 30, 2005, the Company issued 3,929,610 shares
for gross proceeds of $458,319. During the same period they also issued 259,507
shares of common stock for services rendered value at $29,260, and 193,666
shares of common stock valued at $23,240 as commissions on the sale of common
stock. During the nine months ended April 30, 2006, the Company issued 4,355,002
shares of stock upon the exercising of Common Stock Purchase Warrants for net
proceeds of $715,820. The Company has also issued 1,000,000 shares of Common
Stock (See Note 12) in connection with receiving a commitment letter from
Standard Bank informing the Company of its approval for providing a $12 million
senior financing facility.
-10-
CAPITAL GOLD CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE ENTERPRISE)
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE 11 - Stockholders' Equity (continued)
The Company closed two private placements and received proceeds from the
exercising of warrants and options in February and March 2006, pursuant to which
the Company issued an aggregate of 30,140,000 shares of the Company's common
stock and warrants to purchase an aggregate of up to 5,310,000 shares of the
Company's common stock for an aggregate gross purchase price of approximately
$7,890,000 and the Company received approximately $7,373,100 in net proceeds.
The Warrant issued to each purchaser is exercisable for one share of the
Company's common stock, at an exercise price equal to $0.30 per share. Each
Warrant has a term of eighteen months and is fully exercisable from the date of
issuance. The Company issued to the placement agent in one of the placements
eighteen month warrants to purchase up to 934,000 shares of the Company's common
stock at an exercise price of $0.25 per share.
Recapitalization
On September 22, 2005, The Board of Directors recommended an amendment to the
Company's Certificate of Incorporation to increase the Company's authorized
shares of capital stock from 150,000,000 to 200,000,000 shares. In addition, the
Board of Directors recommended that the Company reincorporate in the State of
Delaware. These amendments were approved by the stockholders on November 18,
2005 and the Company effected the reincorporation in Delaware and the authorized
share increase on November 21, 2005. In addition, the par value was decreased
from $0.001 per share to $0.0001 per share.
Warrant Re-pricing
In December 2005, the Board of Directors ratified the temporary re-pricing of
certain warrants that were issued in connection with the February 2005 private
placement from $0.30 per share to $0.20 per share exercise price. In addition,
warrants issued to the placement agent were also re-priced from $0.25 per share
to $0.20 per share exercise price. These re-pricings were in effect for the
period November 28, 2005 through January 31, 2006.
NOTE 12 - Project Finance Facility
On February 2, 2005, the Company mandated Standard Bank London Limited as the
exclusive arranger of a project finance facility of up to $10 million for our El
Chanate gold mining project and associated hedging. The Company anticipates that
Standard Bank will administer the loan and the hedging throughout the
construction and operational phases of the project. Although the specific terms
of the proposed financing are subject to alteration, the Company anticipates,
among other things, that the loan would mature in five years after the initial
draw and bear interest at a rate linked to the 1,2,3 or 6 month Libor rate. The
loan would be secured by the Company's assets and supported by the Company's
guarantee. In addition, the Company will be required to deposit all cash
proceeds the Company receives from operations and other sources in an off-shore
account. Absent default by the Company under the finance documents, the Company
may use funds from this account for specific purposes such as approved operating
costs, budgeted capital expenditures, hedging costs and funds payable to
Standard Bank under the finance documents. The Company would be required to meet
and maintain certain financial covenants and the Company would be required to
conform to certain negative covenants such as restrictions on sale of assets.
The Company also would be required to enter into a gold price protection program
that mitigates the gold price risk by purchasing price protection in a manner
satisfactory to the lender (see Note 13).
As required by the mandate, the Company issued to Standard Bank 1,000,000
common stock purchase warrants and paid an initial cash fee of $100,000. Such
warrants have been valued at approximately $253,000 using the
-11-
CAPITAL GOLD CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE ENTERPRISE)
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE 12 - Project Finance Facility (continued)
Black-Scholes option pricing model and are reflected as deferred financing costs
as a reduction of stockholders' equity on the Company's balance sheet.
Such costs will be amortized to operations over the life of the debt and in the
event the transaction with Standard Bank is not consummated, such costs will be
charged to operations immediately. The initial cash fee of $100,000 is included
in Deferred Finance Costs on the Company's balance sheet. If Standard Bank
determines to proceed with the funding, we will be required to pay certain
additional fees of $300,000 and issue to Standard Bank an additional 14,600,000
common stock purchase warrants. Per our arrangement with Standard Bank, the
shares issuable upon exercise of the 1,000,000 common stock purchase warrants
have been included in a registration statement filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission covering their public resale. We also will be required to so
register the shares issuable upon exercise of the additional 14,600,000 warrants
if and when these warrants are issued. The warrants may be exercised at a price
equivalent to the lower of a) $.32 per share and b) the Company's common share
price at the closing date, but in no case less than $.30 per share. This mandate
is not a commitment to provide the funding. Funding is subject to satisfactory
completion of due diligence, approvals from Standards Bank's credit committee
and execution of definitive documentation.
On November 11, 2005 the Company received a commitment letter from Standard Bank
informing us that its credit committee had approved the banks arranging and
providing for a senior project financing facility for up to $12 million for the
development of our El Chanate project. Amongst other requirements, the
commitment letter requires us to raise additional equity funding, net of
expenses, that, along with cash on hand, is adequate to cover all required
covenants and completion conditions. In connection with this letter, the Company
paid $100,000 and issued 1,000,000 shares of the Company common stock. The
Company recorded the $100,000 as deferred financing costs on the Company's
balance sheet. Such costs will be amortized to operations over the life of the
debt and in the event the transaction with Standard Bank is not consummated,
such costs will be charged to operations immediately. The Company recorded the
issuance of the 1,000,000 shares of common stock as deferred financing costs as
a reduction of stockholders' equity on the Company's balance sheet. The issuance
of these shares were recorded at the fair market value of the Company's common
stock at the commitment letter date or $0.27 per share. Pursuant to this letter,
instead of delivering on the Closing Date of the facility an additional
14,600,000 common stock purchase warrants, as contemplated in the original
Mandate, the Company will be required to deliver an additional 1,000,000 shares
of common stock and an additional 12,600,000 common stock purchase warrants.
During March 2006, The Company entered into a gold price protection agreement
with Standard Bank plc to protect it against future fluctuations in the price of
gold. The Company agreed to a series of gold forward sales and call option
purchases in anticipation of entering into a credit agreement with Standard
Bank, which will be used to fund part of the cost of development of the
Company's El Chanate project. The Company is continuing negotiations with
Standard Bank on the terms of the credit agreement. Under the price protection
agreement, the Company has agreed to sell a total volume of 121,927 ounces of
gold forward to Standard Bank at a price of $500 per ounce on a quarterly basis
during the period from March 2007 to September 2010. The Company will also
purchase call options from Standard Bank on a quarterly basis during this same
period covering a total volume of 121,927 ounces of gold at a price of $535 per
ounce. The Company paid a fee to Standard Bank associated with these
transactions. In addition, the Company provided cash collateral of approximately
$4.3 million to secure our obligations under this agreement and recorded this as
an other current asset as of April 30, 2006. The cash collateral will be
returned to us when the loan agreement is executed and all conditions precedent
to funding have been satisfied.
-12-
CAPITAL GOLD CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE ENTERPRISE)
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE 13 - Mining Contract
In early December, our wholly-owned Mexican subsidiary, Minera Santa Rita, S.A.
de R.L. de C.V.("MSR"), which holds the rights to develop and mine El Chanate
Project, entered into a Mining Contract with a Mexican mining contractor,
Sinergia Obras Civiles y Mineras, S.A. de C.V,("Contractor"). The Mining
Contract becomes effective if and when MSR sends the Contractor a formal "Notice
of Award".
Pursuant to the Mining Contract, the Contractor, using its own equipment, will
generally perform all of the mining work (other than crushing) at the El Chanate
Project for the life of the mine. The Mining Contract becomes effective upon
delivery by MSR to the Contractor of a formal "Notice to Proceed". Subsequent to
delivery of the "Notice to Proceed" and prior to commencement of any work by the
Contractor, MSR must pay the Contractor a mobilization payment of $70,000, and
must also make an advance payment of $520,000 to the Contractor. This advance
payment is recoverable by MSR out of 100% of subsequent payments due to the
Contractor under the Mining Contract. The Contractor's mining rates are subject
to escalation on an annual basis. This escalation is tied to the percentage
escalation in the Contractor's costs for its equipment, interest rates and
labor. If the "Notice to Proceed" was not received by the Contractor by June 1,
2006, the Contractor could elect to either terminate the agreement or modify its
initial mining rates. MSR is not obligated to proceed with the Mining Contract
if those modified rates are unacceptable to MSR. On June 1, 2006, MSR sent a
letter to the Contractor requesting a meeting to discuss possible modifications
to the Mining Contract and a deferment of the June 1st deadline. If the
Contractor does not agree to the deferment, it may terminate the contract or
modify its initial mining rates. MSR is in the process of scheduling a meeting
with the Contractor on this matter.
NOTE 14 - Consulting Agreements
On March 1, 2006, the Company entered into a consulting agreement with
Christopher Chipman pursuant to which the Company has retained Mr. Chipman as
its Chief Financial Officer. Pursuant to the Agreement with Mr. Chipman, Mr.
Chipman devotes approximately 50% of his time to the Company's business. He
receives a monthly fee of $7,500 and he was issued two year options to purchase
an aggregate of 50,000 shares of the Company's common stock at an exercise price
of $.34 per share. The options will vest at the rate of 10,000 sharesper month
during the initial period of his engagement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the
options are not exercisable unless and until the issuance of the options is
approved by the Company's stockholders. The agreement runs for an initial one
year period, and is renewable thereafter for an additional year. The Company can
terminate the agreement at any time; however, if the Company terminates the
agreement other than for cause (as defined in the agreement), the Company is
required to pay Mr. Chipman the fees otherwise due and payable to him through
the last day of the then current term of the Agreement or six months from such
termination, which ever is shorter. Mr. Chipman can terminate the Agreement on
30 days notice.
NOTE 15 - Sales Contracts, Commodity and Financial Instruments
In March 2006, the Company entered into two identically structured derivative
contracts with Standard Bank (See Note 12). Each derivative consisted of a
series of forward sales of gold and a purchase gold cap. The Company agreed to
sell a total volume of 121,927 ounces of gold forward to Standard Bank at a
price of $500 per ounce on a quarterly basis during the period from March 2007
to September 2010. The Company also agreed to a purchase gold cap on a quarterly
basis during this same period and at identical volumes covering a total volume
of 121,927 ounces of gold at a price of $535 per ounce. Under FASB Statement No.
133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" ("FAS 133"),
these contracts must be carried on the balance sheet at their fair value, with
changes to the fair value of these contracts reflected as Other Income or
Expense. These contracts were not designated as hedging derivatives; and
therefore, special hedge accounting does not apply.
The first derivative was entered into on March 1, 2006 for a premium of
$550,000; and the second was entered into on March 30, 2006 for a premium of
$250,000. The gold price rose sharply in April 2006 and was the primary reason
for the decrease in premium on the second derivative contract. As of April 30,
2006, the carrying value of these derivatives was approximately $438,000. The
change in fair value on these derivative contracts was approximately $362,000
for the three months ended April 30, 2006, and was recorded as an other expense.
-13-
CAPITAL GOLD CORPORATION
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE ENTERPRISE)
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE 16 - Subsequent Events
On May 12, 2006, we entered into an employment agreement with John Brownlie,
pursuant to which Mr. Brownlie serves as Vice President Operations. Mr. Brownlie
receives a base annual salary of $150,000 and is entitled to annual bonuses.
Upon his employment, he received options to purchase an aggregate of 200,000
shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $.32 per share. 50,000
options vested immediately and the balance vest upon our achieving "Economic
Completion" as that term will be defined in the loan agreement with Standard
Bank plc (when we have commenced mining operations and have been operating at
anticipated capacity for 60 to 90 days). The term of the options is two years
from the date of vesting. The agreement runs for an initial two year period, and
automatically renews thereafter for additional one year periods unless
terminated by either party within 30 days of a renewal date. We can terminate
the agreement for cause or upon 30 days notice without cause. Mr. Brownlie can
terminate the agreement upon 60 days notice without cause or, if there is a
breach of the agreement by us that is not timely cured, upon 30 days notice. In
the event that we terminate him without cause or he terminates due to our
breach, he will be entitled to certain severance payments. The Company utilized
the Black Scholes method to fair value the 200,000 options received by Mr.
Brownlie. The Company recorded approximately $70,000 as deferred compensation
expense as of the date of the agreement and will record this as compensation
expense over the service term of the agreement.
On May 19, 2006, the Company sold its Equipment Held for Resale and received
proceeds, net of commissions, of $192,000.
In June 2006, the Company's Mexican operating subsidiary retained the
contracting services of Mexican subsidiary of M3 Engineering & Technology
Corporation ("M3M") to provide EPCM (engineering procurement construction
management) services. M3M will supervise the construction and integration of the
various components necessary to commence production at the El Chanate Project.
-14-
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS.
Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this report constitute "forwarding-looking statements"
within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E
of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. Certain, but not necessarily all, of
such forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking
terminology such as "believes," "expects," "may," "will," "should," or
"anticipates" or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable
terminology, or by discussions of strategy that involve risks and uncertainties.
All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this report
regarding our financial position, business and plans or objectives for future
operations are forward-looking statements. Without limiting the broader
description of forward-looking statements above, we specifically note that
statements regarding exploration and mine development and construction plans,
costs, grade, production and recovery rates, permitting, financing needs, the
availability of financing on acceptable terms or other sources of funding, and
the timing of additional tests, feasibility studies and environmental permitting
are all forward-looking in nature.
Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties
and other factors, including but not limited to, the factors discussed below in
"Risk Factors," which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements
to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements
expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and other factors
referenced in this report. We do not undertake and specifically decline any
obligation to publicly release the results of any revisions which may be made to
any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date
of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated
events.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
GENERAL
Sonora, Mexico
During and subsequent to the quarter ended April 30, 2006, we continued to make
progress towards commencement of mining operations at the El Chanate concessions
in Mexico. In this regard, as discussed in greater detail below and in Part II,
Item 5, during and subsequent to the end of the quarter:
1. In February and March 2006, we raised approximately $7,373,100 in net
proceeds from the issuance of securities and the exercise of warrants and
options. We believe that these funds in conjunction with cash on hand and the
anticipated proceeds from the Standard Bank Plc. financing commitment should
enable us to proceed with the El Chanate project.
2. In March 2006, We entered into a gold price protection arrangement with
Standard Bank plc to protect us against future fluctuations in the price of
gold. While we have entered into binding letter agreements that set forth the
economic terms, we are in the process of finalizing the master agreement and
associated schedule. We agreed to a series of gold forward sales and call option
purchases in anticipation of entering into a credit agreement with Standard
Bank, which will be used to fund part of the cost of development of our El
Chanate project. We are continuing negotiations with Standard Bank on the terms
of the credit agreement. With this gold price protection agreement we have
completed our expected hedging requirements under our proposed credit agreement
with Standard Bank. Under the price protection agreement, we have agreed to sell
a total volume of 121,927 ounces of gold forward to Standard Bank at a price of
$500 per ounce on a quarterly basis during the period from March 2007 to
September 2010. We will also purchase call options from Standard Bank on a
quarterly basis during this same period covering a total volume of 121,927
ounces of gold at a price of $535 per ounce. We paid a fee to Standard Bank in
connection with the price protection agreement. In addition, we provided
aggregate cash collateral of approximately $4.3 million to secure our
obligations under this agreement. The cash collateral will be returned to us
when the loan agreement is executed and all conditions precedent to funding have
been satisfied. Please see "We may not be successful in hedging against gold
price fluctuations and may incur mark to market losses and lose money through
our hedging programs" in "Risk Factors," below.
-15-
3. In March 2006, we paid $250,000 as a down payment for a portion of a new
crushing system capable of producing 7,500 metric tons per day of ore. The total
cost for all of the crushing equipment will be approximately $5,600,000. The
$250,000 down payment is towards equipment with a total price of approximately
$1,164,000. We are required to purchase this specific equipment by the end of
the third quarter of 2006, or the supplier is entitled to retain the down
payment. As we have adequate funds to purchase this equipment, we anticipate
purchasing the equipment within the requisite time period.
4. On May 12, 2006, subsequent to the end of the quarter, we appointed John
Brownlie to the position of Vice President Operations for our El Chanate gold
mining project in northern Sonora, Mexico. Mr. Brownlie will supervise the
construction, start-up and operation of the mine.
5. On June 1, 2006, subsequent to the end of the quarter, our Mexican operating
subsidiary retained the contracting services of Mexican subsidiary of M3
Engineering & Technology Corporation ("M3M") to provide EPCM (engineering
procurement construction management) services. M3M will supervise the
construction and integration of the various components necessary to commence
production at the El Chanate Project.
We are currently having the physical condition of our well tested and inspected
to determine the actual condition of the well casing and the pump. While we
believe the well's pumping capacity is about 1,100 gallons per minute at the
well head, we will expect the well to pump over eight kilometers to the mine
property without interruption during the entire life of the mine. If repairs or
upgrades are required, we would prefer to make them before mine production
begins. The 2005 feasibility study indicates our average life of mine water
requirements, for ore processing only, will be about 94.6 million gallons per
year (11.4 liters per second). The amount of water we are currently permitted to
pump for our operations is approximately 71.3 million gallons per year (8.6
liters per second). Our currently permitted water rights may not be adequate for
all of our total project needs over the entire course of our anticipated mining
operations. We are looking into ways to rectify this issue.
Through a wholly-owned subsidiary and an affiliate, we own 100% of 16 mining
concessions located in the Municipality of Altar, State of Sonora, Republic of
Mexico totaling approximately 3,544 hectares (8,756 acres or 13.7 square miles).
We are in the process of constructing and developing an open-pit gold mining
operation to mine two of these concessions. We sometimes refer to the planned
operations on these two concessions as the El Chanate project.
We plan to construct a surface gold mine and facility at El Chanate capable of
producing about 2.6 million metric tons per year of ore from which we anticipate
recovering about 44,000 to 48,000 ounces of gold per year, over a six year mine
life. We are following the updated feasibility study (the "2005 Study") for the
El Chanate project prepared by M3 Engineering of Tucson, Arizona which was
completed in October 2005. The original feasibility study (the "2003 Study") was
completed by M3 Engineering in August 2003. Since completion of the 2003 Study,
both the price of gold and production costs have increased and equipment choices
have broadened from those identified in the 2003 Study.
The 2005 Study includes the following changes from the 2003 Study:
o an increase in the mine life from five to six years,
o an increase in the base gold price from $325/oz to $375/oz,
o use of a mining contractor,
o revised mining, processing and support costs,
o stockpiling of low grade material for possible processing in year six, if
justified by gold prices at that time,
o a reduced size for the waste rock dump and revised design of reclamation
waste dump slopes,
o a revised process of equipment selection and
o evaluation of the newly acquired water well for processing the ore.
-16-
Pursuant to the 2005 Study, our estimated mine life is now six years as opposed
to five years and the ore reserve is 367,673 ounces of gold present in the
ground (up 9,673 ounces). Of this, we anticipate recovering approximately
264,846 ounces of gold (up 16,846 ounces) over a six year mine life. The
targeted cash cost (which include mining, processing and on-property general and
administrative expenses) per the 2005 Study is $259 per ounce (up $29 per
ounce). The 2005 Study contains the same mining rate as the 2003 Study of 7,500
metric tonnes per day of ore. We also have commissioned an engineering study to
analyze the benefits of expanding production rates beyond 7,500 metric tonnes
per day of ore. The 2005 Study takes into consideration a more modern crushing
system than the one contemplated in the 2003 Study. The crushing system referred
to in the 2005 Study is a new system, that, we believe will be faster to install
and provide more efficient processing capabilities than the used equipment
referred to in the 2003 Study. In March 2006, we made a $250,000 down payment to
a US supplier to acquire a portion of a new crushing system. In addition, the
2005 Study assumes a contractor will mine the ore and haul it to the crushers.
In the 2003 Study, we planned to perform these functions. In this regard, in
December 2005, our wholly-owned Mexican subsidiary, Minera Santa Rita, S.A. de
R.L. de C.V.("MSR"), entered into a Mining Contract with a Mexican mining
contractor, Sinergia Obras Civiles y Mineras, S.A. de C.V. The Mining Contract
becomes effective if and when MSR sends the Contractor a formal Notice of Award.
Pursuant to the Mining Contract, the contractor may terminate the agreement or
modify its initial mining rates if it does not receive the formal Notice by June
1, 2006. MSR is not obligated to proceed with the Mining Contract if those
modified rates are unacceptable to it. On June 1, 2006, MSR sent a letter to the
Contractor requesting a meeting to discuss possible modifications to the Mining
Contract and a deferment of the June 1st deadline. If the Contractor does not
agree to the deferment, it may terminate the contract or modify its initial
mining rates. MSR is in the process of scheduling a meeting with the Contractor
on this matter.
The following Summary is extracted from the 2005 Study. Please note that the
reserves as stated are an estimate of what can be economically and legally
recovered from the mine and, as such, incorporate losses for dilution and mining
recovery. The 367,673 ounces (or 11.4 Tons) of contained gold represents ounces
contained in ore in the ground, and therefore does not reflect losses in the
recovery process. Total gold produced is estimated to be approximately 264,846
ounces (or 8.24 Tons), or approximately 70% of the contained gold. The gold
recovery rate is expected to average approximately 70% for the entire ore body.
Individual portions of the ore body may experience varying recovery rates
ranging from about 73% to 48%. Oxidized and sandstone ore types may have
recoveries of about 73%; fault zone ore type recoveries may be about 64%; and
siltstone ore types recoveries may be about 48%.
El Chanate Project
PRODUCTION SUMMARY
Metric U.S.
----------------------------------- ----------------------------------- --------------------------------
MATERIALS
Reserves
Other Mineralized Materials 14.1 Million Tonnes @ 0.812 g/t* 15.5 Million Tons @ 0.026 opt*
Waste 1.0 Million Tonnes 1.1 Million Tons
Total 9.5 Million Tonnes 10.5 Million Tons
-------------------- -----------------
24.6 Million Tonnes 27.1 Million tons
Contained Gold
11.4 Million grams 367,673 Oz
PRODUCTION
Ore Crushed
Operating Days/Year 2.6 Million Tonnes /Year 2.86 Million Tons/Year
Gold Plant Average Recovery 7,500 Mt/d* 8,250 t/d
Average Annual Production 365 Days per year 365 Days per year
Total Gold Produced 69.2 % 69.2 %
1.4 Million grams 44,390 Oz
8.24 Million grams 264,846 Oz
----------------------------------- ----------------------------------- --------------------------------
( 2005 Updated Feasibility Study Page 1-1)
* "g/t" means grams per metric tonne , "Mt/d means metric tonnes per day and
"opt" means ounces per ton.
-17-
Pursuant to the 2005 Study, based on the current reserve calculations, the mine
life is estimated to be approximately 72 months, and at least another year will
likely be required to perform required reclamation. The 2005 Study forecasts
initial capital costs of $17.9 million, which includes $1.7 million of working
capital. Annual production is planned at approximately 44,000 to 48,000 ounces
per year at an average operating cash cost of $259 per ounce. We believe that
the cash cost may decrease as the production rate increases. Total costs (which
include cash costs as well as off-property costs such as property taxes,
royalties, refining, transportation and insurance costs and exclude financing
costs) will vary depending upon the price of gold (due to the nature of
underlying payment obligations to the original owner of the property). Total
costs are estimated in the 2005 Study to be $339 per ounce at a gold price of
$417 per ounce (the three year average gold price as of the date of the study).
We will be working on measures to attempt to reduce costs going forward. Ore
reserves and production rates are based on a gold price of $375 per ounce, which
is the Base Case in the 2005 Study. During 2005, the spot price for gold on the
London Exchange has fluctuated between $411.10 and $537.50 per ounce. Between
January 1, 2006 and May 31, 2006, the spot price for gold on the London Exchange
has fluctuated between $520.75 and $725.75 per ounce.
Management believes that the capital costs to establish a surface, heap leach
mining operation at El Chanate will be between $17.5 and $18.5 million. Between
November 2006 and March 2006, we raised approximately $8,088,920 in net proceeds
from the issuance of securities and the exercise of warrants and options. We
believe that these funds in conjunction with cash on hand and the anticipated
proceeds from the Standard Bank Plc. financing commitment of up to US $12
million should enable us to proceed with the El Chanate project. For more
information on the Standard Bank commitment, please see "Project Finance
Facility" in "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations; Liquidity and Capital Resources; Plan of Operations"
below.
Leadville, Colorado
We own or lease a number of claims and properties, all of which are located in
California Mining District, Lake County, Colorado, Township 9 South, Range 79.
During the quarter ended April 30, 2006, activity at our Leadville, Colorado
properties consisted primarily of mine maintenance. Primarily as a result of our
focus on El Chanate, we ceased activities in Leadville, Colorado. During the
year ended July 31, 2002, we performed a review of our Leadville mine and mill
improvements and determined that an impairment loss should be realized.
Therefore, we significantly reduced the carrying value of certain assets
relating to our Leadville, Colorado assets by $999,445. During the year ending
July 31, 2004, we again performed a review of our Colorado mine and mill
improvements and determined that an additional impairment loss should be
recognized. Accordingly, we further reduced the net carrying value to $0,
recognizing an additional loss of $300,000.
Three Months Ended April 30, 2006 compared to Three Months Ended April 30, 2005
Revenues
We generated no revenues from mining operations during the quarter ended April
30, 2006 and 2005. There were de minimis non-operating revenues during the
quarter ended April 30, 2006 and 2005 of approximately $45,000 and $19,000,
respectively. These non-operating revenues primarily represent interest and
miscellaneous income.
Costs and Expenses
Over all costs and expenses during the quarter ended April 30, 2006 were
approximately $1,164,000, an increase of $747,000 or 179% from the quarter ended
April 30, 2005. The primary reason for the significant increase during the
quarter ended April 30, 2006 was increases in mine and in selling, general and
administrative expenses. We anticipate these costs will increase as we continue
to plan and expand the construction of our El Chanate project.
-18-
On May 19, 2006, the Company sold its equipment held for resale and received
proceeds, net of commissions, of $192,000. The Company will record a loss on
sale of this equipment of $154,000.
Mine expenses during the quarter ended April 30, 2006 were approximately
$487,000, an increase of $358,000 or 277% from the quarter ended April 30, 2005.
We believe that the increase in mine expenses resulted primarily from increased
professional, engineering and consulting costs associated with planning our El
Chanate project for production.
Selling, general and administrative expenses during the quarter ended April 30,
2006 were approximately $663,000, an increase of $377,000 or 132% from the
quarter ended April 30, 2005. We believe that the increase in selling, general
and administrative expenses resulted primarily from an increase in investor
relations, professional and consulting fees as well as fees incurred in
connection with our listing on the TSX during the quarter ended April 30, 2006.
Stock based compensation during the quarter ended April 30, 2006 was
approximately $7,000 compared to $0 for the quarter ended April 30, 2005. These
charges resulted from the vested portion on the issuance of warrants for
services rendered during the quarter ended April 30, 2006.
Depreciation and amortization during the quarter ended April 30, 2006 was
approximately $8,000 compared to $1,000 for the quarter ended April 30, 2005.
This increase resulted from asset acquisitions during the nine months ended
April 30, 2006.
Other Income and Expense
Other income and expense during the three and nine months ended April 30, 2006,
was approximately $362,000. This was primarily due to us entering into two
identically structured derivative contracts with Standard Bank in March 2006.
Each derivative consisted of a series of forward sales of gold and a purchase
gold cap. We agreed to sell a total volume of 121,927 ounces of gold forward to
Standard Bank at a price of $500 per ounce on a quarterly basis during the
period from March 2007 to September 2010. We also agreed to a purchase gold cap
on a quarterly basis during this same period and at identical volumes covering a
total volume of 121,927 ounces of gold at a price of $535 per ounce. Under FASB
Statement No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging
Activities" ("FAS 133"), these contracts must be carried on the balance sheet at
their fair value, with changes to the fair value of these contracts reflected as
Other Income or Expense. These contracts were not designated as hedging
derivatives; and therefore, special hedge accounting does not apply.
The first derivative was entered into on March 1, 2006 for a premium of
$550,000; and the second was entered into on March 30, 2006 for a premium of
$250,000. The gold price rose sharply in April 2006, and was the primary reason
for the decrease in premium on the second derivative contract. The change in
fair value reduced the carrying value on these derivative contracts and amounted
to approximately $362,000 for the three months ended April 30, 2006, and was
reflected as an other expense during the current period. There was no such
transactions entered into during the same period in 2005.
Net Loss
As a result, our net loss for the three months ended April 30, 2006 was
approximately $1,482,000, which was $1,085,000 or 273% greater than our net loss
for the three months ended April 30, 2005, which was $397,000.
Nine Months Ended April 30, 2006 compared to Nine Months Ended April 30, 2005
Revenues
We generated no revenues from mining operations during the nine months ended
April 30, 2006 and 2005. There were de minimis non-operating revenues during the
nine months ended April 30, 2006 and 2005 of approximately $85,000 and $28,000,
respectively. These non-operating revenues primarily represent interest income.
-19-
Costs and Expenses
Over all costs and expenses during the nine months ended April 30, 2006 were
approximately $2,939,000, an increase of $1,64,000 or 126% from the nine months
ended April 30, 2005. The primary reason for the significant increase during the
nine months ended April 30, 2006 was increases in mine and in selling, general
and administrative expenses.
Mine expenses during the nine months ended April 30, 2006 were approximately
$1,529,000, an increase of $1083,000 or 243% from the nine months ended April
30, 2005. We believe that the increase in mine expenses resulted primarily from
increased professional, engineering and consulting fees associated with the
planning of our El Chanate project.
Selling, general and administrative expenses during the nine months ended April
30, 2006 were approximately $1,377,000, an increase of $714,000 or 108% from the
nine months ended April 30, 2005. We believe that the increase in selling,
general and administrative expenses resulted primarily from an increase in
investor relation, professional, and consulting fees as well as fees incurred in
connection with our listing on the TSX and travel expenses incurred in
connection with fund raising efforts during the nine months ended April 30,
2006.
Stock based compensation during the nine months ended April 30, 2006 was $7,000
compared to approximately $188,000 for the nine months ended April 30, 2005.
This decrease resulted from a reduction in the amount of options granted and
common stock issued for services rendered during the nine months ended April 30,
2006.
Depreciation and amortization during the nine months ended April 30, 2006 was
approximately $27,000 compared to $1,000 for the nine months ended April 30,
2005. This increase resulted from asset acquisitions during the nine months
ended April 30, 2006.
Other Income and Expense
Other income and expense during the nine months ended April 30, 2006, was
approximately $362,000. Please see the disclosure in "Other Income and Expense"
in "Three Months Ended April 30, 2006 compared to Three Months Ended April 30,
2005" above.
Net Loss
As a result, our net loss for the nine months ended April 30, 2006 was
approximately $3,216,000, which was $1,945,000 or 153% greater than our net loss
for the nine months ended April 30, 2005, which was $1,271,000.
Gain in Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates
During the nine months ended April 30, 2006, we recorded equity adjustments from
foreign currency translations of approximately $36,000. These translation
adjustments are related to changes in the rates of exchange between the Mexican
Peso and the US dollar.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES; PLAN OF OPERATIONS
As of April 30, 2006, we had working capital of approximately $8,214,000 an
increase of $3,974,000 from July 31, 2005. Our planned activities over the next
twelve months in Mexico are outlined in our annual report on Form 10-KSB for the
year ended July 31, 2005. Generally, and assuming financing is available, we
anticipate that our activities will include the purchase and installation of a
crushing system, of which a deposit was paid in March 2006 to a US supplier to
acquire this crushing system for use at our El Chanate project, construction of
the heap leach pad, moving and erection of the carbon plant and refinery at El
Chanate, the construction of the power line and the water line and construction
of office and laboratory buildings. The activities and the costs may vary
materially, especially if there are significant increase in costs related to
such items as fuel, construction materials and labor.
-20-
Historically, we have not generated any material revenues from operations and
have been in a precarious financial condition. Our consolidated financial
statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the
realization of assets and satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of
business. We have recurring losses from operations. Our primary source of funds
used during the during the nine months ended April 30, 2006 was from the sale
and issuance of equity securities and the exercising of outstanding warrants and
options. As discussed below, in February 2005, we completed a private placement,
netting approximately $6.2 million. In November 2005, we received a commitment
letter from Standard Bank Plc. for a project finance facility of up to US$12
million for our El Chanate project in Sonora State, Mexico. Between November
2006 and March 2006, we received approximately $8,088,920 in net proceeds from
private placements and the exercise of outstanding warrants and options.
2006 PRIVATE PLACEMENTS
We closed two private placements in February and March 2006, pursuant to which
we issued an aggregate of 21,240,000 shares of our Common Stock and warrants to
purchase an aggregate of up to 5,310,000 shares of our Common Stock for an
aggregate gross purchase price of approximately $5,310,000 and we received
approximately $5,000,000 in net proceeds. The Warrant issued to each purchaser
is exercisable for one share of our Common Stock, at an exercise price equal to
$0.30 per share. Each Warrant has a term of eighteen months and is fully
exercisable from the date of issuance. We issued to the placement agent in one
of the placements eighteen month warrants to purchase up to 934,000 shares of
our Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.25 per share. Pursuant to our
agreement with the purchasers we have registered the foregoing shares and shares
issuable upon the exercise of the foregoing Warrants for public resale.
FEBRUARY 2005 PRIVATE PLACEMENT
In the private placement that closed in February 2005, we issued 27,200,004
shares of our Common Stock and warrants to purchase an aggregate of up to
27,200,004 shares of our Common Stock for an aggregate gross purchase price of
approximately $6.8 million and we received approximately $6.2 million in net
proceeds. The Warrant issued to each purchaser was originally exercisable for
one share of our Common Stock, at an exercise price equal to $0.30 per share. We
temporarily lowered the exercise price of the Warrants to $0.20 per shares for
the period commencing on November 28, 2005 and ending on January 31, 2006, after
which time the exercise price increased back to $0.30 per share Each Warrant has
a term of two years and is fully exercisable from the date of issuance. We
issued to the placement agent two year warrants to purchase up to 2,702,000
shares of our Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.25 per share.
Pursuant to our agreement with the purchasers we registered the foregoing shares
and shares issuable upon the exercise of the foregoing Warrants for public
resale. We also agreed to prepare and file all amendments and supplements
necessary to keep the registration statement effective until the earlier of the
date on which the selling stockholders may resell all the registrable shares
covered by the registration statement without volume restrictions pursuant to
Rule 144(k) under the Securities Act or any successor rule of similar effect and
the date on which the selling stockholders have sold all the shares covered by
the registration statement. If, subject to certain exceptions, sales of all
shares registered cannot be made pursuant to the registration statement, we will
be required to pay to these selling stockholders in cash or, at our option, in
shares, their pro rata share of 0.0833% of the aggregate market value of the
registrable shares held by these selling stockholders for each month thereafter
until sales of the registrable shares can again be made pursuant to the
registration statement. In this regard, we will be paying approximately $7,100
to the purchasers representing liquidated damages.
In addition, we agreed to have our Common Stock listed for trading on the
Toronto Stock Exchange. If our Common Stock was not listed for trading on the
Toronto Stock Exchange within 180 days after February 8, 2005, we were required
to issue to these selling stockholders an additional number of shares of our
Common Stock that is equal to 20% of the number of shares acquired by them in
the private placement. We did not timely list our shares on the Toronto Stock
Exchange and, in August 2005, we issued 5,440,000 shares to the selling
stockholders. We subsequently registered these 5,440,000 shares for public
resale.
PROJECT FINANCE FACILITY
On February 2, 2005, we mandated Standard Bank Plc. as the exclusive arranger of
a project finance facility of up to US$10 million for our El Chanate project and
associated hedging. In November 2005, we received a commitment letter from
Standard Bank informing us that its credit committee had approved the Standard
Bank's arranging and providing for a senior project finance facility for up to
US$12 million for the development of our El Chanate project.
-21-
The terms and conditions contained in the commitment letter and the term sheet
attached thereto are indicative only and actual funding is subject to the
negotiation of and execution of satisfactory definitive documents as well as
satisfaction of certain conditions discussed below. The commitment, as extended,
expires on July 11, 2006 if not funded by that date.
According to the term sheet included with the commitment letter, Minera Santa
Rita S. de R.L. de C.V. and Oro de Altar S. de R. L. de C.V., two of our
wholly-owned Mexican subsidiaries (the "Borrowers"), will borrow up to US$12
million from Standard Bank. The loan proceeds will be used to fund project costs
related to the El Chanate project. The loan will mature in five years after the
closing date and bear interest at 4% plus the 1,2,3 or 6 month Libor rate. The
loan will be repayable in 14 quarterly installments commencing on a date to be
determined. In addition, on each installment date, we will be required to apply
50% of excess cash flow towards prepayment of the loan. The loan will be secured
by all shares and all of the assets of the Borrowers, The loan will also be
supported by our guarantee and we will be required to maintain a minimum cash
liquidity balance in an amount to be determined.
We (the Borrowers and/or us) will be required to deposit all cash proceeds we
receive from operations and other sources in an off-shore proceeds account which
will be subject to Standard Bank's security interest. Absent default by us under
the finance documents, funds from this account will be used for specific
purposes such as approved operating costs, budgeted capital expenditures,
hedging costs and funds payable to Standard Bank under the finance documents. As
additional security, we also will be required to fund an offshore debt service
account ("DSRA") and maintain a minimum balance of US$1,800,000.
We will be required to meet and maintain certain financial covenants and conform
to certain customary affirmative and negative covenants, such as restrictions on
sale of assets. We also will be required to enter into a gold price protection
program that mitigates the risk of downward movement in gold prices by entering
into an acceptable hedging program and we will need to structure a hedging
program to mitigate interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk, all in a
manner satisfactory to Standard Bank (see below).
The facility will close and funding will be available upon satisfaction of
certain conditions precedent. In addition to customary conditions precedent such
as execution of definitive documents, the absence of events of default and
satisfactory representations and warranties, closing and funding of the facility
will be subject to: (i) Standard Bank's determination that we have hired
appropriate additional management. to provide construction, operations and
financial management and oversight; and (ii) our raising sufficient equity
funding, net of expenses, that, along with cash on hand, is adequate to cover
all required project equity contributions, pre-completion funding of the DSRA
and other cash requirements prior to Economic Completion (the date upon which
Standard Bank determines that all covenants and completion conditions have been
met over a period of 90 consecutive days and are sustainable over the life of
the project), and to meet a certain minimum liquidity balance to be determined
by Standard Bank. As of the date hereof, we have raised the requisite additional
funds and have entered into a gold price protection arrangement with Standard
Bank (see below).
Pursuant to the original mandate in February 2005, we issued to Standard Bank
1,000,000 common stock purchase warrants and paid certain upfront fees. Pursuant
to the Commitment letter, we paid Standard Bank additional upfront fees
consisting of cash and 1,000,000 shares of our common stock. In addition, on the
closing date we will be required to deliver to Standard Bank an additional
upfront cash fee, an additional 1,000,000 shares of common stock and an
additional 12,600,000 common stock purchase warrants. We have registered the
1,000,000 shares and the 1,000,000 shares issuable upon exercise of warrants
issued to Standard Bank for public resale and we have agreed to register the
above-mentioned additional shares and shares issuable upon exercise of the
warrants for public resale.
If Standard determines not to provide the funding, we will be required to obtain
such funding from another source. To the extent that we need to obtain
additional capital to complete the mine, commence operations and cover ongoing
general and administrative expenses, management intends to raise such funds
through bank financing, the sale of our securities, the sale of a royalty
interest in the future production from the Chanate properties and/or joint
venturing with one or more strategic partners. We cannot assure that adequate
additional funding will be available. If we are unable to obtain needed capital
from outside sources, we will be forced to reduce or curtail our operations.
Please see "We lack operating cash flow and rely on external funding sources. If
we are unable to continue to obtain needed capital from outside sources until we
are able to generate positive cash flow from operations, we will be forced to
reduce or curtail our operations" in "Risk Factors" below.
-22-
We entered into a gold price protection arrangement with Standard Bank plc to
protect us against future fluctuations in the price of gold. We agreed to a
series of gold forward sales and call option purchases in anticipation of
entering into a credit agreement with Standard Bank, which will be used to fund
part of the cost of development of our El Chanate project. We are continuing
negotiations with Standard Bank on the terms of the credit agreement. With this
gold price protection agreement we have completed our expected hedging
requirements under our proposed credit agreement with Standard Bank. Under the
price protection agreement, we have agreed to sell a total volume of 121,927
ounces of gold forward to Standard Bank at a price of $500 per ounce on a
quarterly basis during the period from March 2007 to September 2010. We will
also purchase call options from Standard Bank on a quarterly basis during this
same period covering a total volume of 121,927 ounces of gold at a price of $535
per ounce. We paid a fee to Standard Bank in connection with the price
protection agreement. In addition, we provided aggregate cash collateral of
approximately $4.27 million to secure our obligations under this agreement. The
cash collateral will be returned to us when the loan agreement is executed and
all conditions precedent to funding have been satisfied. Please see "We may not
be successful in hedging against gold price fluctuations and may incur mark to
market losses and lose money through our hedging programs" in "Risk Factors"
below.
As described above, we entered into two identically structured derivative
contracts with Standard Bank. Each derivative consisted of a series of forward
sales of gold and a purchase gold cap. We agreed to sell a total volume of
121,927 ounces of gold forward to Standard Bank at a price of $500 per ounce on
a quarterly basis during the period from March 2007 to September 2010. We also
agreed to a purchase gold cap on a quarterly basis during this same period and
at identical volumes covering a total volume of 121,927 ounces of gold at a
price of $535 per ounce. Under FASB Statement No. 133, "Accounting for
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" ("FAS 133"), these contracts must
be carried on the balance sheet at their fair value, with changes to the fair
value of these contracts reflected as Other Income or Expense. These contracts
were not designated as hedging derivatives; and therefore, special hedge
accounting does not apply.
The first derivative was entered into on March 1, 2006 for a premium of
$550,000; and the second was entered into on March 30, 2006 for a premium of
$250,000. The gold price rose sharply in April 2006, and was the primary reason
for the decrease in premium on the second derivative contract. As of April 30,
2006, the carrying value of these derivatives decreased to approximately
$438,000. The change in fair value on these derivative contracts was
approximately $362,000 for the three months ended April 30, 2006, and was
reflected as an other expense.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND PERMITTING ISSUES
Management does not expect that environmental issues will have an adverse
material effect on our liquidity or earnings. In Mexico, although we must
continue to comply with laws, rules and regulations concerning mining,
environmental, health, zoning and historical preservation issues, we are not
aware of any significant environmental concerns or existing reclamation
requirements at the El Chanate concessions. We received the required Mexican
government permits for construction, mining and processing the El Chanate ores
in January 2004. The permits were extended in June 2005. Pursuant to the
extensions, once we file a notice that work has commenced, we have one year to
prepare the site and construct the mine and seven years to mine and process ores
from the site. We received the explosive permit from the government in January
2004. This permit expired on December 31, 2005. We recently completed
construction of the explosive magazines and, once construction of the security
building is completed and the requisite inspection is performed, we will seek a
new explosive permit.
We own properties in Leadville, Colorado for which we have recorded an
impairment loss. Part of the Leadville Mining District has been declared a
federal Superfund site under the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, and the Superfund Amendments and
Reauthorization Act of 1986. Several mining companies and one individual were
declared defendants in a possible lawsuit. We were not named a defendant or
Principal Responsible Party. We did respond in full detail to a lengthy
questionnaire prepared by the Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") regarding
our proposed procedures and past activities in November 1990. To our knowledge,
the EPA has initiated no further comments or questions.
-23-
We do include in all our internal revenue and cost projections a certain amount
for environmental and reclamation costs on an ongoing basis. This amount is
determined at a fixed amount of $0.13 per metric tonne of material to be milled
on a continual, ongoing basis to provide primarily for reclaiming tailing
disposal sites and other reclamation requirements. At this time, there do not
appear to be any environmental costs to be incurred by us beyond those already
addressed above. No assurance can be given that environmental regulations will
not be changed in a manner that would adversely affect our planned operations.
NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
On December 2004, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
No. 123 (Revised 2004), "Share-Based Payment" ("SFAS 123R"). On April 14, 2005,
the Securities and Exchange Commission issued an amendment to Rule 4-01 of
Regulation S-X that allows companies to implement SFAS 123R at the beginning of
their next fiscal year, instead of the next reporting period that begins after
June 15, 2005 as originally required. Accordingly, adopted SFAS 123R effective
January 1, 2006 using the "modified prospective" method in which compensation
cost is recognized beginning with the effective date base on (a) the
requirements of SFAS 123R for all share-based payments granted after the
effective date and (b) the requirements of SFAS 123 for all awards granted to
employees prior to the effective date of SFAS 123R that remain unvested on the
effective date. In addition, we expect to continue to utilize the Black-Scholes
option-pricing model, which is an acceptable option valuation model in
accordance with SFAS 123R, to estimate the value of stock options granted to
employees.
Beyond those restricted stock and stock option awards previously granted, we
cannot predict with certainty the impact of SFAS 123R on its future consolidated
financial statements as the type and amount of such awards are determined on an
annual basis and encompass a potentially wide range depending upon the
compensation decisions made by our Board of Directors. SFAS 123R also requires
the benefits of tax deductions in excess of compensation cost recognized in the
financial statements to be reported as a financing cash flow, rather than an
operating cash flow as currently required under Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 95, "Statement of Cash Flows" ("SFAS 95"). This
requirement, to the extent it exists, will decrease net operating cash flows and
increase net financing cash flows in periods subsequent to adoption. We cannot
estimate what those amounts will be in the future because they depend on, among
other things, when employees exercise stock options.
On March 29, 2005, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 107 ("SAB 107")
which expresses the view of the SEC Staff regarding the interaction of SFAS 123R
and certain SEC rules and regulations and provides the staff's views regarding
the valuation of share-based payment arrangements. We believe that the views
provided in SAB 107 are consistent with the approach taken in the valuation and
accounting associated with share-based compensation issued in prior periods as
well as those issued during 2005.
In June 2005, the FASB's Emerging Issues Task Force ("EITF") issued EITF Issue
No. 05-02 "The Meaning of "Conventional Convertible Debt Instrument" in EITF
Issue 00-19 "Accounting for Derivative Financial Instruments Indexed to, and
Potentially Settled in, A Company's Own Stock", which retains the exception in
paragraph 4 of EITF Issue No. 00-19 for conventional debt instruments. Those
instruments in which the holder has an option to convert the instrument into a
fixed number of shares (or a corresponding amount of cash at the issuer's
discretion) and its ability to exercise the option is based on either (a) the
passage of time or (b) a contingent event, should be considered "conventional"
for purposes of applying that exception. The consensus should be applied on a
prospective basis for new or modified instruments starting from the third
quarter of 2005. The adoption of EITF No. 05-02 is not expected to have a
material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements or results of
operations.
When there is a modification of a convertible debt instrument, the change in the
fair value of an embedded conversion option should be included in the analysis
of determining whether a debt extinguishment has occurred. The change in the
fair value of the embedded conversion option is calculated as the difference
between the fair value of the conversion option immediately prior to and after
the modification. Also, when a modification of a convertible debt instrument
occurs, the change in the fair value of the embedded conversion prior should be
recognized as a discount (or premium) with a corresponding increase (or
decrease) in additional paid-in capital. Lastly, a beneficial feature should not
be recognized or reassessed upon modification of a convertible debt instrument.
The adoption of EITF No. 05-02 is not expected to have a material effect on the
Company's consolidated financial statements or results of operations.
In November 2005, FASB issued FSP FAS 115-1 and FAS 124-1, "The Meaning of
Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments"
("FSP FAS 115-1"), which provides guidance on determining when investments in
certain debt and equity securities are considered impaired, whether an
impairment is other-than-temporary, and on measuring such impairment loss. FSP
FAS 115-1 also includes accounting considerations subsequent to the recognition
of an other-than-temporary impairment and requires certain disclosures about
unrealized losses that have not been recognized as other-than-temporary
impairments. FSP FAS 115-1 is required to be applied to reporting periods
beginning after December 15, 2005. We adopted FSP FAS 115-1 in the first quarter
of 2006 We have determined that the adoption of this statement will not have a
material impact on our consolidated results of operations or financial
condition.
-24-
In November 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 151, "Inventory Costs - An amendment
of ARB No. 43, Chapter 4" ("SFAS No. 151"). SFAS No. 151 amends the guidance in
Accounting Research Bulletin No. 43, Chapter 4, "Inventory Pricing," to clarify
the accounting for abnormal amounts of idle facility expense, freight, handling
costs, and wasted material (spoilage). Additionally, SFAS No. 151 requires that
the allocation of fixed production overheads to the cost of conversion be based
on the normal capacity of the production facilities. SFAS No. 151 was adopted in
the first quarter of 2006. We have determined that the adoption of SFAS No. 151
will not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.
In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
No. 153 (SFAS 153"), "Exchanges of Non-monetary Assets-an amendment of APB
Opinion No. 29." SFAS 152 addresses the measurement of exchanges of non-monetary
assets. It eliminates the exception from fair value measurement for non-monetary
exchanges of similar productive assets in paragraph 21(b) of APB Opinion No. 29
"Accounting for Non-monetary Transactions" and replaces it with an exception for
exchanges that do not have commercial substance. A non-monetary exchange has
commercial substance if the future cash flows of the entity are expected to
change significantly as a result of the exchange. As required by SFAS 153, we
adopted this new accounting standard effective July 1, 2005. The adoption of
SFAS 153 did not have a material impact on our financial statements.
In May 2005, the FASB issued SFAS No. 154, Accounting Changes and Error
Corrections. SFAS No. 154 establishes retrospective application as the required
method for reporting a change in accounting principle in the absence of explicit
transition requirements specific to the newly adopted accounting principle. SFAS
No. 154 also provides guidance for determining whether retrospective application
is impractical. SFAS No. 154 is effective for accounting changes and corrections
of errors made in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2005. We do not
expect that the adoption of SFAS No. 154 will have a material impact on its
results of operations or financial position.
DISCLOSURE ABOUT OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
We do not have any transactions, agreements or other contractual arrangements
that constitute off-balance sheet arrangements.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Our financial statements and accompanying notes are prepared in accordance with
accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Preparing financial statements requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue,
and expenses. These estimates and assumptions are affected by management's
application of accounting policies. Critical accounting policies for us include
impairment of long-lived assets, accounting for stock-based compensation and
environmental remediation costs.
In accordance with SFAS 144, "Accounting for the Impairment and Disposal of
Long-Lived Assets," we review our long-lived assets for impairments. Impairment
losses on long-lived assets are recognized when events or changes in
circumstances indicate that the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be
generated by such assets are less than their carrying value and, accordingly,
all or a portion of such carrying value may not be recoverable. Impairment
losses then are measured by comparing the fair value of assets to their carrying
amounts.
Environmental remediation costs are accrued based on estimates of known
environmental remediation exposure. Such accruals are recorded even if
significant uncertainties exist over the ultimate cost of the remediation. It is
reasonably possible that our estimates of reclamation liabilities, if any, could
change as a result of changes in regulations, extent of environmental
remediation required, means of reclamation or cost estimates. Ongoing
environmental compliance costs, including maintenance and monitoring costs, are
expensed as incurred. There were no environmental remediation costs incurred or
accrued at April 30, 2006.
We entered into two identically structured derivative contracts with Standard
Bank in March 2006. Each derivative consisted of a series of forward sales of
gold and a purchase gold cap. We agreed to sell a total volume of 121,927 ounces
of gold forward to Standard Bank at a price of $500 per ounce on a quarterly
basis during the period from March 2007 to September 2010. We also agreed to a
purchase gold cap on a quarterly basis during this same period and at identical
volumes covering a total volume of 121,927 ounces of gold at a price of $535 per
ounce. Under FASB Statement No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and
Hedging Activities" ("FAS 133"), these contracts must be carried on the balance
sheet at their fair value, with changes to the fair value of these contracts
reflected as Other Income or Expense. These contracts were not designated as
hedging derivatives; and therefore, special hedge accounting does not apply.
-25-
RISK FACTORS
We are subject to various risks that may materially harm our business, financial
condition and results of operations. If any of these risks or uncertainties
actually occur, our business, financial condition or operating results could be
materially harmed. In that case, the trading price of our common stock could
decline and you could lose all or part of your investment.
RISKS RELATED TO OUR BUSINESS AND OPERATIONS
WE HAVE NOT GENERATED ANY OPERATING REVENUES. IF WE ARE UNABLE TO
COMMERCIALLY DEVELOP OUR MINERAL PROPERTIES, WE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO
GENERATE PROFITS AND OUR BUSINESS MAY FAIL.
To date, we have no producing properties. As a result, we have no current source
of operating revenue and we have historically operated and continue to operate
at a loss. Our ultimate success will depend on our ability to generate profits
from our properties. Our viability is largely dependent on the successful
commercial development of our El Chanate gold mining project in Sonora, Mexico.
WE LACK OPERATING CASH FLOW AND RELY ON EXTERNAL FUNDING SOURCES. IF WE
ARE UNABLE TO CONTINUE TO OBTAIN NEEDED CAPITAL FROM OUTSIDE SOURCES
UNTIL WE ARE ABLE TO GENERATE POSITIVE CASH FLOW FROM OPERATIONS, WE
WILL BE FORCED TO REDUCE OR CURTAIL OUR OPERATIONS.
We do not generate any positive cash flow from operations and we do not
anticipate that any positive cash flow will be generated for some time. Our
primary focus is the development of our El Chanate project which, we anticipate,
will cost between $17.5 and $18.5 million. We also anticipate non-mine related
operating expenses of approximately $1.4 million. In February 2005, we raised
approximately $6.2 million from the proceeds of private placements. In February
and March 2006, we completed private placements and received proceeds from the
exercising of warrants and options netting approximately $7,373,100. Also, in
November 2005, we received a commitment letter from Standard Bank Plc.
(formerly, Standard Bank London Limited) for a project finance facility of up to
US$12 million for our El Chanate project. Funding the Standard Bank facility is
subject to the negotiation, execution, and delivery of definitive financing
documentation, as well as the completion of certain conditions. If Standard
determines not to provide the funding, we will be required to obtain such
funding from another source. To the extent that we need to obtain additional
capital to complete the mine, commence operations and cover ongoing general and
administrative expenses, management intends to raise such funds through bank
financing, the sale of our securities, the sale of a royalty interest in the
future production from the Chanate properties and/or joint venturing with one or
more strategic partners. We cannot assure that adequate additional funding will
be available. If we are unable to obtain needed capital from outside sources, we
will be forced to reduce or curtail our operations.
OUR YEAR END AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTAIN A "GOING CONCERN"
EXPLANATORY PARAGRAPH. OUR INABILITY TO CONTINUE AS A GOING CONCERN
WOULD REQUIRE A RESTATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES ON A LIQUIDATION
BASIS, WHICH WOULD DIFFER MATERIALLY AND ADVERSELY FROM THE GOING
CONCERN BASIS ON WHICH OUR FINANCIAL STATEMENTS INCLUDED IN THIS REPORT
HAVE BEEN PREPARED.
Our consolidated financial statements for the year ended July 31, 2005 included
in our annual report on form 10-KSB for the year then ended have been prepared
on the basis of accounting principles applicable to a going concern. Our
auditors' report on the consolidated financial statements contained therein
includes an additional explanatory paragraph following the opinion paragraph on
our ability to continue as a going concern. A note to these consolidated
financial statements describes the reasons why there is substantial doubt about
our ability to continue as a going concern and our plans to address this issue.
Our July 31, 2005 and April 30, 2006 consolidated financial statements do not
include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
Our inability to continue as a going concern would require a restatement of
assets and liabilities on a liquidation basis, which would differ materially and
adversely from the going concern basis on which our consolidated financial
statements have been prepared. See, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations; Liquidity and Capital Resources;
Plan of Operations."
-26-
IF WE ARE UNABLE TO OBTAIN A CRUSHING SYSTEM AND OTHER EQUIPMENT FOR
OUR MEXICAN CONCESSIONS AT AN ACCEPTABLE COST, OUR ANTICIPATED RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS FROM MINING AT THESE CONCESSIONS, ONCE MINING COMMENCES,
MAY BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED.
We anticipate that the total cost for all of the crushing equipment will be
approximately $5,600,000. In March 2006, we paid $250,000 as a down payment for
a portion of the new crushing system. The total price for this specific
equipment is approximately $1,164,000. We are required to purchase the specific
equipment by the end of the third quarter of 2006, or the supplier is entitled
to retain the down payment. As we have adequate funds to purchase this
equipment, we anticipate purchasing the equipment within the requisite time
period. If we are unable to obtain this equipment or other requisite equipment
at an acceptable cost, our planned mining operations and our anticipated results
of operations from mining at these concessions, once mining commences, may be
adversely affected. See, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations; Liquidity and Capital Resources; Plan of
Operations."
WE WILL BE USING RECONDITIONED AND USED EQUIPMENT WHICH COULD ADVERSELY
AFFECT OUR COST ASSUMPTIONS AND OUR ABILITY TO ECONOMICALLY AND
SUCCESSFULLY MINE THE PROJECT.
We plan to use reconditioned and used carbon column collection equipment to
recover gold. Such equipment is subject to the risk of more frequent breakdowns
and need for repair than new equipment. If the equipment that we use breaks down
and needs to be repaired or replaced, we will incur additional costs and
operations may be delayed resulting in lower amounts of gold recovered. In such
event, our capital and operating cost assumptions may be inaccurate and our
ability to economically and successfully mine the project may be hampered,
resulting in decreased revenues and, possibly, a loss from operations.
AS A RESULT OF THE PROJECTED SHORT MINE LIFE OF SIX YEARS, IF MAJOR
PROBLEMS DEVELOP, WE WILL HAVE LIMITED TIME TO CORRECT THESE PROBLEMS
AND WE MAY HAVE TO CEASE OPERATIONS EARLIER THAN PLANNED.
Pursuant to the 2005 Study, the mine life will be only six years. If major
problems develop in the project, or we fail to achieve the operating
efficiencies or costs projected in the feasibility study, we will have limited
time to find ways to correct these problems and we may have to cease operations
earlier than planned.
THE GOLD DEPOSIT WE HAVE IDENTIFIED AT EL CHANATE IS RELATIVELY SMALL
AND LOW-GRADE. IF OUR ESTIMATES AND ASSUMPTIONS ARE INACCURATE, OUR
RESULTS OF OPERATION AND FINANCIAL CONDITION COULD BE MATERIALLY
ADVERSELY AFFECTED.
The gold deposit we have identified at our El Chanate Project is relatively
small and low-grade. If the estimates of ore grade or recovery rates contained
in the feasibility study turn out to be higher than the actual ore grade and
recovery rates, if costs are higher than expected, or if we experience problems
related to the mining, processing of, or recovery of gold from, ore at the El
Chanate project, our results of operation and financial condition could be
materially adversely affected. Moreover, it is possible that actual costs and
economic returns may differ materially from our best estimates. It is not
unusual in the mining industry for new mining operations to experience
unexpected problems during the start-up phase and to require more capital than
anticipated. There can be no assurance that our operations at El Chanate will be
profitable.
OUR CURRENTLY PERMITTED WATER RIGHTS MAY NOT BE ADEQUATE FOR ALL OF OUR
TOTAL PROJECT NEEDS OVER THE ENTIRE COURSE OF OUR ANTICIPATED MINING
OPERATIONS. IF WE NEED TO OBTAIN ADDITIONAL RIGHTS, BUT ARE UNABLE TO
PROCURE THEM OUR PLANNED OPERATIONS MAY BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED.
We are currently having the physical condition of our well tested and inspected
to determine the actual condition of the well casing and the pump. While we
believe the well's pumping capacity is about 1,100 gallons per minute at the
well head, we will expect the well to pump over eight kilometers to the mine
property without interruption during the entire life of the mine. If repairs or
upgrades are required, we would prefer to make them before mine production
begins. The 2005 feasibility study indicates our average life of mine water
requirements, for ore processing only, will be about 94.6 million gallons per
year (11.4 liters per second). The amount of water we are currently permitted to
pump for our operations is approximately 71.3 million gallons per year (8.6
liters per second). Our currently permitted water rights may not be adequate for
all of our total project needs over the entire course of our anticipated mining
operations. We are looking into ways to rectify this issue. If we need to obtain
additional rights, but are unable to procure them our planned operations may be
adversely affected.
-27-
WE HAVE A LIMITED NUMBER OF PROSPECTS. AS A RESULT, OUR CHANCES OF
COMMENCING VIABLE MINING OPERATIONS ARE DEPENDENT UPON THE SUCCESS OF
ONE PROJECT.
Our only current properties are the El Chanate concessions and our Leadville
properties. At present, we are not doing any substantive work at our Leadville
properties and, in fact, have written these properties off. Our El Chanate
concessions are owned by one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, Oro de Altar.
Santa Rita, another of our Mexican subsidiaries leases the land and claims at El
Chanate from Oro de Altar. FG, our former joint venture partner, has the right
to receive five percent of Santa Rita's annual dividends, when declared. We
currently do not have operations on either of our properties, and we must
commence such operations to receive revenues. Accordingly, we are dependent upon
the success of the El Chanate concessions.
GOLD PRICES CAN FLUCTUATE ON A MATERIAL AND FREQUENT BASIS DUE TO
NUMEROUS FACTORS BEYOND OUR CONTROL. IF AND WHEN WE COMMENCE
PRODUCTION, OUR ABILITY TO GENERATE PROFITS FROM OPERATIONS COULD BE
MATERIALLY AND ADVERSELY AFFECTED BY SUCH FLUCTUATING PRICES.
The profitability of any gold mining operations in which we have an interest
will be significantly affected by changes in the market price of gold. Gold
prices fluctuate on a daily basis. During 2005, the spot price for gold on the
London Exchange fluctuated between $411.10 and $537.50 per ounce. Between
January 1, 2006 and March 1, 2006, the spot price for gold on the London
Exchange has fluctuated between $520.75 and $569.75 per ounce. Gold prices are
affected by numerous factors beyond our control, including:
o the level of interest rates,
o the rate of inflation,
o central bank sales,
o world supply of gold and
o stability of exchange rates.
Each of these factors can cause significant fluctuations in gold prices. Such
external factors are in turn influenced by changes in international investment
patterns and monetary systems and political developments. The price of gold has
historically fluctuated widely and, depending on the price of gold, revenues
from mining operations may not be sufficient to offset the costs of such
operations.
WE MAY NOT BE SUCCESSFUL IN HEDGING AGAINST GOLD PRICE FLUCTUATIONS AND
MAY INCUR MARK TO MARKET LOSSES AND LOSE MONEY THROUGH OUR HEDGING
PROGRAMS.
We have entered into metals trading transactions to hedge against fluctuations
in gold prices, using call option purchases and forward sales. The terms of our
anticipated debt financing with Standard Bank will require that we utilize
various price hedging techniques to hedge a portion of the gold we plan to
produce at the El Chanate project. There can be no assurance that we will be
able to successfully hedge against gold price fluctuations and if we fail to
maintain the minimum level of hedge transactions required by the terms of our
anticipated debt financing, our ability to draw amounts from Standard Bank may
be adversely affected.
Further, there can be no assurance that the use of hedging techniques will
always be to our benefit. Hedging instruments that protect against market price
volatility may prevent us from realizing the full benefit from subsequent
increases in market prices with respect to covered production, which would cause
us to record a mark-to-market loss, decreasing our revenues and profits. Hedging
contracts also are subject to the risk that the other party may be unable or
unwilling to perform its obligations under these contracts. Any significant
nonperformance could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition,
results of operations and cash flows.
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In addition, we expect to settle our forward sales at a time when the El Chanate
project is in production. If the completion of the project is delayed or if we
are unable for any reason to deliver the quantity of gold required by our
forward sales, we may need to settle the forward sales by purchasing gold at
spot prices. Depending on the price of gold at that time, the financial
settlement of the forward sales could have a material adverse effect on our
financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
OUR MATERIAL PROPERTY INTERESTS ARE IN MEXICO. RISKS OF DOING BUSINESS
IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
AND FINANCIAL CONDITION.
We face risks normally associated with any conduct of business in foreign
countries with respect to our El Chanate project in Sonora, Mexico, including
various levels of political and economic risk. The occurrence of one or more of
these events could have a material adverse impact on our efforts or future
operations which, in turn, could have a material adverse impact on our future
cash flows, earnings, results of operations and financial condition. These risks
include the following:
o labor disputes,
o invalidity of governmental orders,
o uncertain or unpredictable political, legal and economic
environments,
o war and civil disturbances,
o changes in laws or policies,
o taxation,
o delays in obtaining or the inability to obtain necessary
governmental permits,
o governmental seizure of land or mining claims,
o limitations on ownership,
o limitations on the repatriation of earnings,
o increased financial costs,
o import and export regulations, including restrictions on the
export of gold, and
o foreign exchange controls.
These risks may limit or disrupt the project, restrict the movement of funds or
impair contract rights or result in the taking of property by nationalization or
expropriation without fair compensation.
WE ANTICIPATE SELLING GOLD IN U.S. DOLLARS; HOWEVER, WE INCUR A
SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF OUR EXPENSES IN MEXICAN PESOS. IF AND WHEN WE
SELL GOLD, IF APPLICABLE CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATES FLUCTUATE OUR REVENUES
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS MAY BE MATERIALLY AND ADVERSELY AFFECTED.
If and when we commence sales of gold, such sales will be made in U.S. dollars.
We incur a significant amount of our expenses in Mexican pesos. As a result, our
financial performance would be affected by fluctuations in the value of the
Mexican peso to the U.S. dollar.
CHANGES IN REGULATORY POLICY COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR EXPLORATION AND
FUTURE PRODUCTION ACTIVITIES.
Any changes in government policy may result in changes to laws affecting:
o ownership of assets,
o land tenure,
o mining policies,
o monetary policies,
o taxation,
o rates of exchange,
o environmental regulations,
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o labor relations,
o repatriation of income and
o return of capital.
Any such changes may affect our ability to undertake exploration and development
activities in respect of present and future properties in the manner currently
contemplated, as well as our ability to continue to explore, develop and operate
those properties in which we have an interest or in respect of which we have
obtained exploration and development rights to date. The possibility,
particularly in Mexico, that future governments may adopt substantially
different policies, which might extend to expropriation of assets, cannot be
ruled out.
COMPLIANCE WITH ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR
EXPLORATION AND FUTURE PRODUCTION ACTIVITIES.
With respect to environmental regulation, environmental legislation generally is
evolving in a manner which will require:
o stricter standards and enforcement,
o increased fines and penalties for non-compliance,
o more stringent environmental assessments of proposed projects
and
o a heightened degree of responsibility for companies and their
officers, directors and employees.
There can be no assurance that future changes to environmental legislation and
related regulations, if any, will not adversely affect our operations. We could
be held liable for environmental hazards that exist on the properties in which
we hold interests, whether caused by previous or existing owners or operators of
the properties. Any such liability could adversely affect our business and
financial condition.
WE ARE NOT INSURED AGAINST ANY LOSSES OR LIABILITIES THAT COULD ARISE
FROM OUR OPERATIONS BECAUSE WE HAVE NOT COMMENCED OPERATIONS AT EL
CHANATE. ALTHOUGH WE PLAN ON OBTAINING INSURANCE ONCE CONSTRUCTION
BEGINS, SUCH INSURANCE MAY NOT BE ADEQUATE. IF WE INCUR MATERIAL LOSSES
OR LIABILITIES BECAUSE WE DO NOT HAVE INSURANCE OR OUR COVERAGE IS NOT
ADEQUATE, OUR FINANCIAL POSITION COULD BE MATERIALLY AND ADVERSELY
AFFECTED.
We are in the process of developing our Mexican concessions and hope to commence
mining operations during the first calendar quarter of 2007. If and when we
commence mining operations, such operations will involve a number of risks and
hazards, including:
o environmental hazards,
o industrial accidents,
o metallurgical and other processing,
o acts of God, and
o mechanical equipment and facility performance problems.
Such risks could result in:
o damage to, or destruction of, mineral properties or production
facilities,
o personal injury or death,
o environmental damage,
o delays in mining,
o monetary losses and /or
o possible legal liability.
Industrial accidents could have a material adverse effect on our future business
and operations. Although as we move forward in the development of the El Chanate
project we plan to obtain and maintain insurance within ranges of coverage
consistent with industry practice. In this regard, we plan on obtaining basic
insurance coverage for an amount consistent with industry practice upon
execution of a financing agreement with Standard Bank, and to increase coverage
as warranted thereafter. We cannot be certain that this insurance will cover the
risks associated with mining or that we will be able to maintain insurance to
cover these risks at economically feasible premiums. We also might become
subject to liability for pollution or other hazards which we cannot insure
against or which we may elect not to insure against because of premium costs or
other reasons. Losses from such events may have a material adverse effect on our
financial position.
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CALCULATION OF RESERVES AND METAL RECOVERY DEDICATED TO FUTURE
PRODUCTION IS NOT EXACT, MIGHT NOT BE ACCURATE AND MIGHT NOT ACCURATELY
REFLECT THE ECONOMIC VIABILITY OF OUR PROPERTIES.
Reserve estimates may not be accurate. There is a degree of uncertainty
attributable to the calculation of reserves, resources and corresponding grades
being dedicated to future production. Until reserves or resources are actually
mined and processed, the quantity of reserves or resources and grades must be
considered as estimates only. In addition, the quantity of reserves or resources
may vary depending on metal prices. Any material change in the quantity of
reserves, resource grade or stripping ratio may affect the economic viability of
our properties. In addition, there can be no assurance that mineral recoveries
in small scale laboratory tests will be duplicated in large tests under on-site
conditions or during production.
WE ARE DEPENDENT ON THE EFFORTS OF CERTAIN KEY PERSONNEL AND WE NEED TO
RETAIN ADDITIONAL PERSONNEL AND/OR CONTRACTORS TO DEVELOP OUR EL
CHANATE PROJECT. IF WE LOSE THE SERVICES OF THESE PERSONNEL OR WE ARE
UNABLE TO RETAIN ADDITIONAL PERSONNEL AND/OR CONTRACTORS, OUR ABILITY
TO COMPLETE DEVELOPMENT AND OPERATE OUR EL CHANATE PROJECT MAY BE
DELAYED AND OUR PLANNED OPERATIONS MAY BE MATERIALLY ADVERSE AFFECTED.
We are dependent on a relatively small number of key personnel, including but
not limited to John Brownlie, Vice President of Operations, who oversees the El
Chanate project, and Dave Loder, the General Manager of the El Chanate project,
the loss of any one of whom could have an adverse effect on us. In addition,
while certain of our officers and directors have experience in the exploration
and operation of gold producing properties, we need to retain additional
personnel and/or contractors to develop and operate our El Chanate project.
Certain of these personnel and consultants, including Messrs. Brownlie and
Loder, have already been engaged. In addition, MSR entered into a contract with
a Mexican mining contractor, Sinergia Obras Civiles y Mineras, S.A. de
C.V("Contractor"), pursuant to which the Contractor is to provide all mining
services other than crushing. MSR was required to deliver a "Notice to Proceed"
by June 1, 2006, or the Contractor could elect to either terminate the agreement
or modify its initial mining rates. On June 1, 2006, MSR sent a letter to the
Contractor requesting a meeting to discuss possible modifications to the Mining
Contract and a deferment of the June 1st deadline. If the Contractor does not
agree to the deferment, it may terminate the contract or modify its initial
mining rates. MSR is in the process of scheduling a meeting with the Contractor
on this matter. While MSR does not believe that the Contractor will terminate
the contract or materially increase its rates beyond price escalations
anticipated in the contract due to the passage of time, we cannot assure the
foregoing.
There can be no guarantee that any needed personnel or contractors, including,
possibly the mining contractor, will be available to carry out necessary
activities on our behalf or be available upon commercially acceptable terms. If
we lose the services of our key personnel or the Contractor or we are unable to
retain additional personnel and/or contractors, our ability to complete
development and operate our El Chanate project may be delayed and our planned
operations may be materially adversely affected.
THERE ARE UNCERTAINTIES AS TO TITLE MATTERS IN THE MINING INDUSTRY. WE
BELIEVE THAT WE HAVE GOOD TITLE TO OUR PROPERTIES; HOWEVER, ANY DEFECTS
IN SUCH TITLE THAT CAUSE US TO LOSE OUR RIGHTS IN MINERAL PROPERTIES
COULD JEOPARDIZE OUR PLANNED BUSINESS OPERATIONS.
We have investigated our rights to explore, exploit and develop our concessions
in manners consistent with industry practice and, to the best of our knowledge,
those rights are in good standing. However, we cannot assure that the title to
or our rights of ownership of the El Chanate concessions will not be challenged
or impugned by third parties or governmental agencies. In addition, there can be
no assurance that the concessions in which we have an interest are not subject
to prior unregistered agreements, transfers or claims and title may be affected
by undetected defects. Any such defects could have a material adverse effect on
us.
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SHOULD WE SUCCESSFULLY COMMENCE MINING OPERATIONS IN MEXICO, OUR
ABILITY TO REMAIN PROFITABLE LONG TERM, SHOULD WE BECOME PROFITABLE,
EVENTUALLY WILL DEPEND ON OUR ABILITY TO FIND, EXPLORE AND DEVELOP
ADDITIONAL PROPERTIES. OUR ABILITY TO ACQUIRE SUCH ADDITIONAL
PROPERTIES WILL BE HINDERED BY COMPETITION. IF WE ARE UNABLE TO
ACQUIRE, DEVELOP AND ECONOMICALLY MINE ADDITIONAL PROPERTIES, WE MOST
LIKELY WILL NOT BE ABLE TO BE PROFITABLE ON A LONG-TERM BASIS.
Gold properties are wasting assets. They eventually become depleted or
uneconomical to continue mining. The acquisition of gold properties and their
exploration and development are subject to intense competition. Companies with
greater financial resources, larger staffs, more experience and more equipment
for exploration and development may be in a better position than us to compete
for such mineral properties. If we are unable to find, develop and economically
mine new properties, we most likely will not be able to be profitable on a
long-term basis.
OUR ABILITY ON A GOING FORWARD BASIS TO DISCOVER ADDITIONAL VIABLE AND
ECONOMIC MINERAL RESERVES IS SUBJECT TO NUMEROUS FACTORS, MOST OF WHICH
ARE BEYOND OUR CONTROL AND ARE NOT PREDICTABLE. IF WE ARE UNABLE TO
DISCOVER SUCH RESERVES, WE MOST LIKELY WILL NOT BE ABLE TO BE
PROFITABLE ON A LONG-TERM BASIS.
Exploration for gold is speculative in nature, involves many risks and is
frequently unsuccessful. Few properties that are explored are ultimately
developed into commercially producing mines. As noted above, our long-term
profitability will be, in part, directly related to the cost and success of
exploration programs. Any gold exploration program entails risks relating to
o the location of economic ore bodies,
o development of appropriate metallurgical processes,
o receipt of necessary governmental approvals and
o construction of mining and processing facilities at any site
chosen for mining.
The commercial viability of a mineral deposit is dependent on a number of
factors including:
o the price of gold,
o the particular attributes of the deposit, such as its
o size,
o grade and
o proximity to infrastructure,
o financing costs,
o taxation,
o royalties,
o land tenure,
o land use,
o water use,
o power use,
o importing and exporting gold and
o environmental protection.
The effect of these factors cannot be accurately predicted.
RISKS RELATED TO OWNERSHIP OF OUR STOCK
THERE IS A LIMITED MARKET FOR OUR COMMON STOCK. IF A SUBSTANTIAL AND
SUSTAINED MARKET FOR OUR COMMON STOCK DOES NOT DEVELOP, OUR
STOCKHOLDERS MAY HAVE DIFFICULTY SELLING, OR BE UNABLE TO SELL, THEIR
SHARES.
Our common stock is tradable in the United States in the over-the-counter market
and is quoted on the Over-The-Counter Bulletin Board and, effective March 22,
2006, our shares of common stock are listed for trading on the Toronto Stock
Exchange. There is only a limited market for our common stock and there can be
no assurance that this market will be maintained or broadened. If a substantial
and sustained market for our common stock does not develop, our stockholders may
have difficulty selling, or be unable to sell, their shares.
-32-
OUR STOCK PRICE MAY BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED IF A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF
SHARES ARE SOLD IN THE PUBLIC MARKET.
As of June 14, 2006, approximately 78,859,314 shares of our Common Stock,
constituted "restricted securities" as defined in Rule 144 under the Securities
Act of 1933. We have registered more than half of these shares for public
resale. In addition, we have registered 21,905,000 shares of Common Stock
issuable upon the exercise of outstanding warrants and 763,636 shares of Common
Stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options. All of the foregoing
shares, assuming exercise of all of the above options and warrants, would
represent in excess of 50% of the then outstanding shares of our Common Stock.
Registration of the shares permits the sale of the shares in the open market or
in privately negotiated transactions without compliance with the requirements of
Rule 144. To the extent the exercise price of the warrants or options is less
than the market price of the Common Stock, the holders of the warrants are
likely to exercise them and sell the underlying shares of Common Stock and to
the extent that the exercise prices of these securities are adjusted pursuant to
anti-dilution protection, the securities could be exercisable or convertible for
even more shares of Common Stock. In addition, should we consummate the project
finance facility with Standard Bank, we will be required to issue an additional
1,000,000 shares and warrants for an additional 12.6 million shares and to
register the foregoing shares and the shares issuable upon exercise of these
warrants for public resale. We also may issue shares to be used to meet our
capital requirements or use shares to compensate employees, consultants and/or
directors. We are unable to estimate the amount, timing or nature of future
sales of outstanding Common Stock. Sales of substantial amounts of our Common
Stock in the public market could cause the market price for our Common Stock to
decrease. Furthermore, a decline in the price of our Common Stock would likely
impede our ability to raise capital through the issuance of additional shares of
Common Stock or other equity securities.
WE DO NOT INTEND TO PAY DIVIDENDS IN THE NEAR FUTURE.
Our board of directors determines whether to pay dividends on our issued and
outstanding shares. The declaration of dividends will depend upon our future
earnings, our capital requirements, our financial condition and other relevant
factors. Our board does not intend to declare any dividends on our shares for
the foreseeable future. We anticipate that we will retain any earnings to
finance the growth of our business and for general corporate purposes. In
addition, our ability to pay dividends most likely will be restricted by
financial covenants in any project finance facility we enter into with Standard
Bank or another lender.
IF OUR COMMON STOCK IS DEEMED TO BE A "PENNY STOCK," TRADING OF OUR
SHARES WOULD BE SUBJECT TO SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS THAT COULD IMPEDE OUR
STOCKHOLDERS' ABILITY TO RESELL THEIR SHARES.
"Penny stocks" as that term is defined in Rule 3a51-1 of the Securities and
Exchange Commission are stocks:
i. with a price of less than five dollars per share;
ii. that are not traded on a recognized national exchange;
o whose prices are not quoted on the NASDAQ automated
quotation system; or
iii. of issuers with net tangible assets equal to or less than
o -$2,000,000 if the issuer has been in continuous
operation for at least three years; or
o -$5,000,000 if in continuous operation for less than
three years, or
o of issuers with average revenues of less than
$6,000,000 for the last three years.
Our Common Stock is not currently a penny stock because we have net tangible
assets of more than $2,000,000. Should our net tangible assets drop below
$2,000,000 and we do not meet any of the other criteria for exclusion of our
Common Stock from the definition of penny stock, our Common Stock will be a
penny stock.
Section 15(g) of the Exchange Act, and Rule 15g-2 of the Securities and Exchange
Commission, require broker-dealers dealing in penny stocks to provide potential
investors with a document disclosing the risks of penny stocks and to obtain a
manually signed and dated written receipt of the document before effecting any
transaction in a penny stock for the investor's account. Moreover, Rule 15g-9 of
the Securities and Exchange Commission requires broker-dealers in penny stocks
to approve the account of any investor for transactions in such stocks before
selling any penny stock to that investor. This procedure requires the
broker-dealer:
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i. to obtain from the investor information concerning his or her financial
situation, investment experience and investment objectives;
ii. to determine reasonably, based on that information, that transactions
in penny stocks are suitable for the investor and that the investor has
sufficient knowledge and experience as to be reasonably capable of
evaluating the risks of penny stock transactions;
iii. to provide the investor with a written statement setting forth the
basis on which the broker-dealer made the determination in (ii) above;
and
iv. to receive a signed and dated copy of such statement from the investor,
confirming that it accurately reflects the investor's financial
situation, investment experience and investment objectives.
Should our Common Stock be deemed to be a penny stock, compliance with the above
requirements may make it more difficult for holders of our Common Stock to
resell their shares to third parties or to otherwise dispose of them.
ITEM 3. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.
The term "disclosure controls and procedures" is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and
15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange
Act"). This term refers to the controls and procedures of a company that are
designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the
reports that it files under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized,
and reported within the required time periods. Our Chief Executive Officer and
our Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure
controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly
report. They have concluded that, as of that date, our disclosure controls and
procedures were effective at ensuring that required information will be
disclosed on a timely basis in our reports filed under the Exchange Act.
No change in our internal control over financial reporting occurred during the
period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably
likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
None.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS.
During the current quarter, we closed two private placements and received
proceeds from the exercising of warrants and options, pursuant to which we
issued an aggregate of 30,140,000 shares of our common stock and warrants to
purchase an aggregate of up to 5,310,000 shares of our common stock. Some of
these issuances were noted in our quarterly report for the period ended January
31, 2006. In addition, we issued to the placement agent in one of the placements
eighteen month warrants to purchase up to 934,000 shares of our common stock
during the quarter ended April 30, 2006. We also issued options to purchase
50,000 common shares to our new Chief Financial Officer.
In May 2006 we issued options to purchase 200,000 shares of common stock to our
new Vice President of Operations and options to purchase 200,000 shares of
common stock to a consultant. All of the foregoing issuances were exempt from
registration pursuant to the provisions of Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of
1933.
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES.
None.
ITEM 4 SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.
None.
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION.
As discussed in more detail in our Current Report on Form 8-K filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 17, 2006, on May 12, 2006, we
appointed John Brownlie to the position of Vice President Operations for our El
Chanate gold mining project in northern Sonora, Mexico. Mr. Brownlie will
supervise the construction, start-up and operation of the mine. Mr. Brownlie has
provided team management for mining projects requiring technical,
administrative, political and cultural experience over his 28 year mining
career. From 2000 to 2006, Mr. Brownlie was a consultant providing mining and
mineral related services to various companies including SRK, Oxus Mining plc and
Cemco Inc. From 1995 to 2000, he was the General Manager for the
Zarafshan-Newmont Joint Venture in Uzbekistan, a one-million tonne per month
heap leach plant which produced over 400,000 ounces of gold per year. From 1989
to 1995, Mr. Brownlie served as the Chief Engineer and General Manager for
Monarch Resources in Venezuela, at both the El Callao Revemin Mill and La
Camorra gold projects. Before that, was a resident of South Africa and
associated with numerous mineral projects across Africa. He is also a mechanical
engineer and fluent in Spanish.
In addition, in June 2006, our Mexican operating subsidiary retained
the contracting services of Mexican subsidiary of M3 Engineering & Technology
Corporation ("M3M") to provide EPCM (engineering procurement construction
management) services. M3M will supervise the construction and integration of the
various components necessary to commence production at the El Chanate Project.
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ITEM 6. EXHIBITS.
10.1 Brownlie Employment Agreement.
10.2 EPCM Agreement with M3M.
31.1 Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
from the Company's Chief Executive Officer.
31.2 Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
from the Company's Chief Financial Officer.
32.1 Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
from the Company's Chief Executive Officer.
32.2 Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
from the Company's Chief Financial Officer.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereto duly authorized.
CAPITAL GOLD CORPORATION
------------------------
Registrant
By: /s/ Gifford A. Dieterle
------------------------------
Gifford A. Dieterle
President/Treasurer
Date: June 19, 2006
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