UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

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

 

For the Quarterly Period Ended August 31, 20172019

OR

 

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

 

For the Transition Period from to

Commission File Number: 1-35447

 

TRILOGY METALS INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

 

British Columbia98-1006991

(State or Other Jurisdiction of

Incorporation or Organization)

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

  

Suite 1150, 609 Granville Street

Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada

V7Y 1G5
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)(Zip Code)

(604) 638-8088

(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

 

(604) 638-8088

(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

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

Title of each classTrading Symbol(s)Name of each exchange on which registered
Common SharesTMQNYSE American
Toronto Stock Exchange

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 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. YesxNo¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

YesxNo¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer¨Accelerated filer¨xNon-accelerated filer¨
(Do not check if a smaller
reporting company)
Smaller reporting companyxEmerging growth company¨

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes¨Nox

 

As of October 4, 2017,8, 2019, the registrant had 105,674,303140,003,741 Common Shares, no par value, outstanding.

 

 

 

 

 

TRILOGY METALS INC.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

  Page
  
PART I -FINANCIAL INFORMATION2
  
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATIONItem 1.Financial Statements2
   
Item 1.Financial Statements2
Item 2.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations1514
 
Item 3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk2623
Item 4.Controls and Procedures26
   
PART II - OTHER INFORMATIONItem 4.28Controls and Procedures24
   
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION25
Item 1.Legal Proceedings28 
Item 1A.1.Risk FactorsLegal Proceedings2825
 
Item 1A.Risk Factors25
Item 2.Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds2825
 
Item 3.Defaults Upon Senior Securities2825
 
Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures2825
 
Item 5.Other Information.Information2825
 
Item 6.Exhibits2825

ii 

 

 

PART I -FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.Financial Statements

 

Trilogy Metals Inc.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(unaudited)

 

in thousands of US dollars

  

August 31, 2017

$

  

November 30, 2016

$

 
Assets        
Current assets        
Cash and cash equivalents  10,205   7,340 
Accounts receivable  341   47 
Deposits and prepaid amounts  864   724 
Current investments (note 3)  4,571   7,538 
   15,981   15,649 
         
Investments (note 3)  81   297 
Plant and equipment  399   215 
Mineral properties and development costs (note 4)  30,587   30,586 
   47,048   46,747 
Liabilities        
Current liabilities        
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (note 5)  4,759   593 
   4,759   593 
         
Mineral properties purchase option (note 4)  10,000   - 
   14,759   593 
Shareholders’ equity        
Share capital (note 6)– unlimited common shares authorized, no par value; Issued –105,667,125 (2016 – 105,286,469)  136,494   136,357 
Warrants (note 6(d))  2,163   2,163 
Contributed surplus  124   124 
Contributed surplus – options (note 6(a, b))  18,392   18,134 
Contributed surplus – units (note 6(c))  1,258   1,140 
Deficit  (126,142)  (111,764)
   32,289   46,154 
   47,048   46,747 

  August 31, 2019
$
  November 30, 2018
$
 
Assets        
Current assets        
Cash and cash equivalents  26,852   22,991 
Accounts receivable  359   23 
Deposits and prepaid amounts  520   619 
   27,731   23,633 
         
Rent deposit  114   114 
Plant and equipment (note 3)  820   325 
Mineral properties and development costs (note 4)  30,587   30,587 
   59,252   54,659 
Liabilities        
Current liabilities        
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (note 5)  4,512   1,657 
   4,512   1,657 
         
Mineral properties purchase option (note 4(c))  31,000   20,800 
   35,512   22,457 
Shareholders’ equity        
Share capital (note 6)– unlimited common shares authorized, no par value
Issued -138,905,097 (2018 – 131,585,612)
  176,970   164,069 
Warrants (note 6(c))  -   2,253 
Contributed surplus  122   122 
Contributed surplus – options (note 6(a))  21,183   19,076 
Contributed surplus – units (note 6(b))  1,652   1,489 
Deficit  (176,187)  (154,807)
   23,740   32,202 
   59,252   54,659 

 

Commitments and contingencies(notes 4, 5 and (note 8)

 

(See accompanying notes to the interim consolidated financial statements)

 

/s/ Rick Van Nieuwenhuyse,James Gowans, Director /s/ Kalidas Madhavpeddi, Director
Approved on behalf of the Board of Directors

 

Approved on behalf of the Board of Directors

2 

 

 

Trilogy Metals Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Loss and Comprehensive Loss

(unaudited)

 

in thousands of US dollars, except share and per share amounts

  For the three months ended  For the nine months ended 
  

August 31, 2017

$

  

August 31, 2016

$

  

August 31, 2017

$

  

August 31, 2016

$

 
Expenses                
Amortization  27   17   66   59 
Foreign exchange (gain) loss  (592)  3   (542)  8 
General and administrative  273   311   1,050   1,030 
Investor relations  107   30   263   80 
Mineral properties expense (note 4(d))  8,471   3,077   10,407   4,067 
Professional fees  86   84   404   430 
Salaries  218   250   683   719 
Salaries – stock-based compensation  104   146   603   544 
Total expenses  8,694   3,918   12,934   6,937 
Other items                
Unrealized loss on held for trading investments  83   -   1,252   - 
Loss on sale of investments  230   -   230   - 
Loss on disposal of equipment  8   -   8   - 
Interest and other income  (23)  (16)  (46)  (52)
Loss from continuing operations for the period  8,992   3,902   14,378   6,885 
                 
Loss from discontinued operations  -   353   -   712 
Loss from discontinued operations for the period  -   353   -   712 

Loss and comprehensive loss for the period 

  8,992   4,255   14,378   7,597 
                 
Basic and diluted loss per common share $0.09  $0.04  $0.14  $0.07 
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding  105,581,406   105,213,320   105,524,598   105,046,854 

  For the three months ended  For the nine months ended 
  August 31, 2019
$
  August 31, 2018
$
  August 31, 2019
$
  August 31, 2018
$
 
Expenses            
Amortization  31   39   106   122 
Foreign exchange loss (gain)  3   15   (26)  (29)
General and administrative  435   376   1,363   1,175 
Investor relations  164   59   456   261 
Mineral properties expense (note 4(d))  10,951   9,051   15,392   12,657 
Professional fees  414   13   658   286 
Salaries  272   286   835   738 
Salaries – stock-based compensation  402   204   3,005   1,277 
Total expenses  12,672   10,043   21,789   16,487 
Other items                
Loss on held for trading investments  -   12   -   272 
Interest and other income  (137)  (135)  (409)  (229)
Loss and comprehensive loss for the period  12,535   9,920   21,380   16,530 
Basic and diluted loss per common share $0.09  $0.08  $0.16  $0.14 
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding  136,981,179   131,470,146   133,677,437   118,530,242 

(See accompanying notes to the interim consolidated financial statements)

3

Trilogy Metals Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity

(unaudited)

in thousands of US dollars, except share amounts

  Number of
shares
outstanding
  Share capital
$
  Warrants
$
  Contributed
surplus
$
  Contributed
surplus – options
$
  Contributed
surplus – units
$
  Deficit
$
  Total
shareholders’
equity
$
 
Balance – November 30, 2017  105,684,523   136,525   2,163   124   18,402   1,319   (132,868)  25,665 
Exercise of options  50,753   29   -   -   (29)  -   -   - 
Restricted share units  800,000   457   -   -   -   (457)  -   - 
Stock-based compensation  -   -   -   -   484   438   -   922 
Loss for the period  -   -   -   -   -   -   (2,946)  (2,946)
Balance – February 28, 2018  106,535,276   137,011   2,163   124   18,857   1,300   (135,814)  23,641 
Bought deal financing  24,784,482   28,750   90   -   -   -   (90)  28,750 
Share issuance costs  -   (1,819)  -   -   -   -   -   (1,819)
Exercise of options  28,700   5   -   -   (5)  -   -   - 
Stock-based compensation  -   -   -   -   90   61   -   151 
Loss for the period  -   -   -   -   -   -   (3,664)  (3,664)
Balance – May 31, 2018  131,348,458   163,947   2,253   124   18,942   1,361   (139,568)  47,059 
Share issuance costs  -   14   -   -   -   -   -   14 
Exercise of options  184,475   71   -   -   (71)  -   -   - 
Novagold deferred share units  1,020   2   -   (2)  -   -   -   - 
Stock-based compensation  -   -   -   -   140   64   -   204 
Loss for the period  -   -   -   -   -   -   (9,920)  (9,920)
Balance – August 31, 2018  131,533,953   164,034   2,253   122   19,011   1,425   (149,488)  37,357 
                                 
Balance – November 30, 2018  131,585,612   164,069   2,253   122   19,076   1,489   (154,807)  32,202 
Exercise of options  44,230   28   -   -   (28)  -   -   - 
Restricted share units  412,501   424   -   -   -   (424)  -   - 
Stock-based compensation  -   -   -   -   1,586   353   -   1,939 
Loss for the period  -   -   -   -   -   -   (4,336)  (4,336)
Balance – February 28, 2019  132,042,343   164,521   2,253   122   20,634   1,418   (159,143)  29,805 
Exercise of options  101,064   53   -   -   (53)  -   -   - 
Stock-based compensation  -   -   -   -   355   309   -   664 
Loss for the period  -   -   -   -   -   -   (4,509)  (4,509)
Balance – May 31, 2019  132,143,407   164,574   2,253   122   20,936   1,727   (163,652)  25,960 
Exercise of options  57,818   41   -   -   (41)  -   -   - 
Stock-based compensation  -   -   -   -   288   114   -   402 
Deferred share units  182,132   189   -   -   -   (189)  -   - 
Exercise of warrants  6,521,740   12,166   (2,253)  -   -   -   -   9,913 
Loss for the period  -   -   -   -   -   -   (12,535)  (12,535)
Balance – August 31, 2019  138,905,097   176,970   -   122   21,183   1,652   (176,187)  23,740 

 

(See accompanying notes to the interim consolidated financial statements)

 


 

Trilogy Metals Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ EquityCash Flows

(unaudited)

 

in thousands of US dollars, except share amounts

  

Number of
shares
outstanding

  

Share
capital

$

  

Warrants

$

  

Contributed
surplus

$

  

Contributed
surplus –
options

$

  

Contributed
surplus –
units

$

  

Deficit

$

  

Total
shareholders’
equity

$

 
Balance – November 30, 2015  104,796,421   136,040   2,163   124   17,841   1,164   (106,902)  50,430 
Restricted Share Units  108,399   34   -   -   -   (63)  -   (29)
Deferred Share Units  218,795   218   -   -   -   (218)  -   - 
Exercise of options  143,889   56   -   -   (56)  -   -   - 
Stock-based compensation  -   -   -   -   326   218   -   544 
Loss for the period  -   -   -   -   -   -   (7,597)  (7,597)
Balance – August 31, 2016  105,267,504   136,348   2,163   124   18,111   1,101   (114,499)  43,348 
                                 
Balance – November 30, 2016  105,286,469   136,357   2,163   124   18,134   1,140   (111,764)  46,154 
Exercise of options  171,458   54   -   -   (54)  -   -   - 
Restricted Share Units  209,198   83   -   -   -   (173)  -   (90)
Stock-based compensation  -   -   -   -   312   291   -   603 
Loss for the period  -   -   -   -   -   -   (14,378)  (14,378)
Balance – August 31, 2017  105,667,125   136,494   2,163   124   18,392   1,258   (126,142)  32,289 
  in thousands of US dollars
  For the nine months ended 
  

August 31, 2019

$

  

August 31, 2018

$

 
Cash flows used in operating activities        
Loss for the period  (21,380)  (16,530)
Items not affecting cash        
Amortization  106   122 
Loss on held for trading investments  -   272 
Unrealized foreign exchange loss (gain)  3   (52)
Stock-based compensation  3,005   1,277 
Net change in non-cash working capital        
(Increase) Decrease in accounts receivable  (336)  413 
Decrease in deposits and prepaid amounts  99   191 
Increase (Decrease) in accounts payable and accrued liabilities  2,748   (285)
   (15,755)  (14,592)
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities        
Proceeds from exercise of warrants  9,913   - 
Proceeds from bought deal financing  -   28,750 
Share issuance cost  -   (1,805)
   9,913   26,945 
Cash flows from investing activities        
Acquisition of plant & equipment  (494)  (7)
Mineral properties funding (note 4 (c))  10,200   10,435 
Proceeds from the sale of investments, net of fees  -   2,297 
   9,706   12,725 
Increase in cash and cash equivalents  3,864   25,078 
Effect of exchange rate on cash and cash equivalents  (3)  (1)
Cash and cash equivalents – beginning of period  22,991   5,391 
Cash and cash equivalents – end of period  26,852   30,468 

 

(See accompanying notes to the interim consolidated financial statements)

 


 

Trilogy Metals Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(unaudited)

in thousands of US dollars

  For nine months ended 
  

August 31, 2017

$

  

August 31, 2016

$

 
Cash flows used in operating activities        
Loss for the period  (14,378)  (7,597)
Items not affecting cash        
Amortization  66   154 
Loss on disposal of equipment  8   - 
Loss on sale of held for trading investments  172   - 
Unrealized loss on held for trading investments  1,252   - 
Unrealized foreign exchange gain  (472)  - 
Stock-based compensation  603   514 
Net change in non-cash working capital        
Increase in accounts receivable  (294)  (23)
(Increase)/decrease in deposits and prepaid amounts  (140)  132 
Increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities  4,116   104 
   (9,067)  (6,716)
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities        
Settlement of Restricted Share Units  (90)  - 
   (90)  - 
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities        
Acquisition of plant & equipment  (209)  (121)
Mineral properties funding (note 4)  10,000   - 
Proceeds from the sale of investments, net of fees  2,180   - 
   11,971   (121)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents  2,814   (6,837)
Effect of exchange rate on cash and cash equivalents  51   - 
Cash and cash equivalents – beginning of period  7,340   16,139 
Cash and cash equivalents – end of period  10,205   9,302 
Less cash and cash equivalents of discontinued operations – end of period  -   (75)
Cash and cash equivalents of continuing operations – end of period  10,205   9,227 

(See accompanying notes to the interim consolidated financial statements)

Trilogy Metals Inc.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 

1Nature of operations

 

Trilogy Metals Inc., formerly NovaCopper Inc., (“Trilogy”, or the “Company”, or “we”) was incorporated in British Columbia under theBusiness Corporations Act (BC)(British Columbia) on April 27, 2011. The Company changed its name from NovaCopper Inc. to Trilogy Metals Inc. on September 1, 2016 to better reflect its diversified metals resource base. The Company is engaged in the exploration and development of mineral properties with a focus on the Upper Kobuk Mineral Projects (“UKMP”), including the Arctic and Bornite Projects located in Northwest Alaska in the United States of America (“US”).

 

2Summary of significant accounting policies

 

Basis of presentation

Basis of presentation

 

These consolidated financial statements have been prepared using accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”) and include the accounts of Trilogy and its wholly-owned subsidiary, NovaCopper US Inc., doing business as Trilogy Metals US (“Trilogy (dba “Trilogy Metals US”). These consolidated financial statements included the accounts of Sunward Resources Ltd. (“Sunward”), Sunward Investments Ltd. (“Sunward Investments”) and Sunward Resources Limited (“Sunward BVI”) for the period June 19, 2015 to September 1, 2016, inclusive. Sunward BVI has registered a branch, Sunward Resources Sucursal Colombia, to do business in Colombia. All significant intercompany transactions are eliminated on consolidation.

On June 19, 2015, we completed the acquisition of Sunward, which held 100% ownership in the Titiribi gold-copper exploration project in Colombia through Sunward Investments. Sunward was converted to Sunward Resources Unlimited Liability Company on June 19, 2015 and wound-up on February 29, 2016. On September 1, 2016, we completed the sale of Sunward Investments and the Titiribi project.The Company classified the operations of Sunward Investments as discontinued operations, retrospectively.

 

All figures are in United States dollars unless otherwise noted. References to CAD$ or CDN$ refer to amounts in Canadian dollars.

 

TheThese unaudited interim consolidated financial statements include all adjustments of a normal recurring nature necessary for the fair presentation of ourthe Company’s financial position as of August 31, 2017,2019 and our results of operations for the three months and nine months ended August 31, 2017 and 2016 and our cash flows for the nine months ended August 31, 20172019 and 2016.August 31, 2018. The results of operations for the three and nine months ended August 31, 20172019 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the fiscal year ending November 30, 2017.2019.

 

As these interim consolidated financial statements do not contain all of the disclosures required by U.S. GAAP for annual financial statements, these unaudited interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the annual financial statements and related notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended November 30, 20162018 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on February 3, 2017.11, 2019.

 

These financial statements were approved by the Company’s Audit Committee on behalf of the Board of Directors for issue on October 4, 2017.8, 2019.

 

Accounting standards adopted

i.Recent accounting pronouncementsFinancial instruments

 

i.Statement of cash flows

In NovemberMarch 2016, the FASBFinancial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued new guidance regarding the presentation of restricted cash in the statement of cash flowson classifying and measuring financial instruments (“ASU 2016-18”2016-01”). This update is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and early adoption is permitted.2017. The Company has analyzedadopted the impactprovisions of the update and determined that the clarification will not affectthis guidance effective December 1, 2018. As the Company’s presentation on itsinvestments in equity instruments were previously classified at fair value with the change in fair value recorded to the statement of cash flows. The Company early adoptedloss and comprehensive loss, the standard in the second quarter of 2017. As there was nonew guidance does not impact on the Company’s statement of cash flows, there were no changes as a result of adopting the standard.accounting or reported results.

Recent accounting pronouncements

ii.Leases

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued new accounting requirements for accounting for, presentation of, and classification of leases (“ASU 2016-02”). This will result in most leases being capitalized as a right of use asset with a related liability on ourthe balance sheets. The requirements of the new standard are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those annual periods, which for usTrilogy is the first quarter of the fiscal year ending November 30, 2020. We expect the adoption will have an impact as we expect to capitalize leases and recognize lease obligations, specifically for our office leases thatwhich are not currently recognized on the balance sheet andsheets. We are in the process of analyzing the quantitative impact of this guidance on our results of operations and financial position.

 

iii.Stock-based compensation

In March 2016, the FASB issued new guidance simplifying the accounting for stock-based compensation transactions, including income tax consequences, classification of awards as equity or liabilities, forfeitures, and classification on the statement of cash flows (“ASU 2016-09”). This update is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and early adoption is permitted. The Company has analyzed the impact of the update and determined that the simplification applied to accounting for forfeitures will affect the results of operations and financial position as it will alter the timing of recognition of forfeitures. The Company is currently considering its policy choice. The remaining changes in the update do not have an effect on the Company’s accounting for stock-based compensation.

iv.Business combinations

In January 2017, the FASB issued new guidance to assist in determining if a set of assets and activities being acquired or sold is a business (“ASU 2017-01”). It also provided a framework to assist entities in evaluating whether both an input and a substantive process are present, which at a minimum, must be present to be considered a business. This update is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and early adoption is permitted in most circumstances. It expects there could be an impact to how the Company accounts for assets acquired in the future.


3InvestmentsPlant and equipment

 

On September 1, 2016, Trilogy completed the sale to GoldMining Inc. (“GMI”), formerly Brazil Resources Inc., a public company listed on the TSX-Venture exchange,in thousands of all of the issued and outstanding shares of Sunward Investments for consideration of 5,000,000 common shares of GMI valued at $7.8 million and 1,000,000 warrants, with each warrant exercisable into one common share of GMI for a period of two years at an exercise price of CDN$3.50, valued at $0.3 million, for total consideration of $8.1 million. Of the common shares received, 2,500,000 common shares were saleable immediately with the remaining 2,500,000 common shares saleable six months following the close. Sunward Investments, through a subsidiary, owns 100% of the Titiribi gold-copper exploration project.dollars

  August 31, 2019 
  

 

Cost

$

  

Accumulated

amortization

$

  

 

Net

$

 
British Columbia, Canada            
Furniture and equipment  63   (26)  37 
Leasehold improvements  53   (16)  37 
Computer hardware and software  115   (111)  4 
Alaska, USA            
Machinery and equipment  3,779   (3,038)  741 
Vehicles  348   (347)  1 
Computer hardware and software  35   (35)  - 
   4,393   (3,573)  820 

 

The common shares and warrants received have been designated as held-for-trading financial assets, with the classification as current investments and long-term investments, respectively.

in thousands of dollars

  

August 31, 2017

$

  

November 30, 2016

$

 
       
Current investments  4,571   7,538 
Long-term investments  81   297 
Investments  4,652   7,835 

The fair value of the common shares is determined based on the closing price at each period end. The fair value of the BRI warrants is determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model at each period end.

During the nine months ended August 31, 2017, the Company sold 1,519,000 common shares of GMI during the period for proceeds of $2.2 million and realized a loss on sale of $0.2 million. For the nine months ended August 31, 2017, the Company recorded an unrealized loss on the common shares and warrants of GMI of $1.3 million.

  November 30, 2018 
  

 

Cost

$

  

Accumulated

amortization

$

  

 

Net

$

 
British Columbia, Canada            
Furniture and equipment  63   (17)  46 
Leasehold improvements  53   (10)  43 
Computer hardware and software  115   (109)  6 
Alaska, USA            
Machinery and equipment  3,178   (2,964)  214 
Vehicles  348   (333)  15 
Computer hardware and software  35   (34)  1 
   3,792   (3,467)  325 

 

4Mineral properties and development costs

in thousands of dollars

 

November 30, 2016

$

 

Acquisition costs

$

 

August 31, 2017

$

  

November 30, 2018

$

  

Acquisition costs

$

  

August 31, 2019

$

 
Alaska, USA                        
Ambler (a)  26,586   1   26,587   26,587   -   26,587 
Bornite (b)  4,000   -   4,000   4,000   -   4,000 
  30,586   1   30,587   30,587   -   30,587 

 

in thousands of dollars

 

November 30, 2015

$

  

Acquisition costs

$

  

November 30, 2016

$

  

November 30, 2017

$

  

Acquisition costs

$

  

November 30, 2018

$

 
Alaska, USA                        
Ambler (a)  26,586   -   26,586   26,587   -   26,587 
Bornite (b)  4,000   -   4,000   4,000   -   4,000 
  30,586   -   30,586   30,587   -   30,587 

 

(a)Ambler

 

On January 11, 2010, NovaGold Resources Inc. (“NovaGold”), through Alaska Gold Company (“AGC”), at the time a wholly-owned NovaGold subsidiary, purchased 100% of the Ambler lands in Northwest Alaska, which contains the copper-zinc-lead-gold-silver Arctic Project and other mineralized targets within the volcanogenic massive sulfide belt, through a series of cash and share payments. Total fair value of the consideration was $26.6 million. The vendor retained a 1% net smelter return royalty that the owner of the propertyCompany can purchase at any time for a one-time payment of $10.0 million.

 


The Ambler lands were acquired on October 17, 2011 by Trilogy Metals US through a purchase and sale agreement with AGC. On October 24, 2011, NovaGold transferred its ownership of Trilogy Metals US to the Company, then itself a wholly owned subsidiary of NovaGold, which was subsequently spun-out to NovaGold shareholders and publicly listed on April 30, 2012 (“NovaGold Arrangement”).

 

(b)Bornite

 

On October 19, 2011, Trilogy Metals US acquired the exclusive right to explore and the non-exclusive right to access and enter on the Bornite lands, and lands deeded to NANA Regional Corporation, Inc. (“NANA”) through the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, located adjacent to the Ambler lands in Northwest Alaska. As consideration, Trilogy Metals US paid $4 million to acquire the right to explore and develop the combined Upper Kobuk Mineral Projects through an Exploration Agreement and Option to Lease with NANA. Upon a decision to proceed with construction of a mine on the lands, NANA maintains the right to purchase between a 16%-25% ownership interest in the mine or retain a 15% net proceeds royalty which is payable after Trilogy Metals US has recovered certain historical costs, including capital and cost of capital. Should NANA elect to purchase an ownership interest, consideration will be payable equal to all historical costs incurred on the properties at the elected percentage purchased less $40 million, not to be less than zero. The parties would form a joint venture and be responsible for all future costs, including capital costs of the mine based on their pro-rata share.

 

NANA would also be granted a net smelter return royalty of between 1% and 2.5% upon the execution of a mining lease or a surface use agreement, the amount of which is determined by the classification of land from which production originates.

 

(c)Option Agreement

 

On April 10, 2017, Trilogy and Trilogy Metals US entered into an Option Agreement to Formform a Joint Venture with South32 Group Operations Pty Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of South32 Limited, which agreement was later assigned by South32 Operations to its affiliate, South32 USA Exploration Inc. (“South32”) on the UKMP (“Option Agreement”). Under the terms of the Option Agreement, as amended, Trilogy Metals US has granted South32 the right to form a 50/50 joint venture to hold all of Trilogy Metals US’ Alaskan assets. Upon exercise of the option, Trilogy Metals US will transfer its Alaskan assets, including the UKMP, and South32 will contribute a minimum of $150 million, to a newly formed and jointly held, limited liability company (“JV LLC”), plus any amounts Trilogy Metals US spends at the Arctic Project over the next three years to a maximum of $5 million per year (the “Subscription Price”), less an amount of the initial funding contributed by South32.

.

 

To maintain the option in good standing, South32 is required to fund a minimum of $10 million per year for up to a three yearthree-year period, which funds will be used to execute a mutually agreed upon program at the UKMP. The funds provided by South32 may only be expended based onin accordance with an approved program by a technical committee with equal representation from Trilogy and South32. South32 may exercise its option at any time over the approved program. Provided that allthree-year period to enter into the exploration data and information has been made available to South32 by no later than December 3150/50 joint venture. To subscribe for 50% of each year,the JV, South32 must decide by the end of January of the following year whether: (i) to fund a further tranche ofcontribute a minimum of $150 million, plus (i) any amounts Trilogy spends on matched parallel funding to a maximum of $16 million over the three year period and (ii) $5 million if the option had been exercised between April 1, 2018 and March 31, 2019 or $10 million or (ii) to withdrawif the option is exercised between April 1, 2019 and not provide any further annual funding. If the election to fund a further tranche is not made in January,expiration date of the option, less the amount of the initial funding contributed by South32 (the “Subscription Price”). South32 has now funded the full three-year option period. South32 has until the end of MarchJanuary 2020 to exercise the option to form the JV LLC and make the subscription payment. Should South32 not make its annual minimum payment or elect to withdraw, the option will lapse and South32 will have no claim to property ownership or to the funds already spent.

 

TheDuring the year ended November 30, 2017, the Company received $10.0 million for the first payment of $10.0 million and these funds were expended on the year 1 program at the Bornite Project. In October 2017, the Company received $0.4 million as a first instalment towards the year 2 program and budget to begin preparatory work. During the year ended November 30, 2018, the Company received payments totaling $10.4 million following the approval of the year 12 program and budget in April 2017. As at August 31, 2017,January 2018, including a $0.80 million advance on South32’s year three funding obligation per the Option Agreement. During the quarter ended February 28, 2019, the Company held $2.7received payments totaling $10.2 million in a segregated bank accountfollowing the approval of the year 3 program and budget, including an additional $1 million of funding for spending on the approved regional exploration program. The receipt of the year 1 program at Bornite.3 funding represents receipt of the final tranche of funding from South32. The Company is responsible for the disbursement of these funds in accordance with the approved program and budget and accordingly has not classified the funds as restricted cash.

 


As the initial option payments are credited against the future subscription price upon exercise, the Company has accounted for the paymentpayments received from South32 as deferred consideration.consideration for the purchase of the UKMP interest. At such time as the option is exercised, the initial$31.0 million of payments received to that date will be recognized as part of the consideration received for the Company’s contribution of the UKMP into the JV LLC. If South 32South32 withdraws from the Option Agreement, the consideration will be recognized as income in the statement of loss at that time.

 

The option to form the JV LLC is recognized as a financial instrument at inception of the arrangement with an initial fair value of $nil. This option is required to be re-measured at fair value at each reporting date with any changes in fair value recorded in loss for the period. The Company determined that the fair value of the option remains $nil as at August 31, 2019.

 

(d)Mineral properties expense

 

The following table summarizes mineral properties expense for the noted periods and includes expenditures funded by South32.periods.

In thousands of dollars

 

Three months
ended August
31, 2017

$

  

Three months
ended August
31, 2016

$

  

Nine months
ended August
31, 2017

$

  

Nine months
ended August
31, 2016

$

  

Three months
ended

August 31, 2019

$

  

Three months
ended

August 31, 2018

$

  

Nine months

ended

August 31, 2019

$

  

Nine months

ended

August 31, 2018

$

 
Alaska, USA                                
Community  67   63   201   184   164   81   428   324 
Drilling  3,194   712   3,284   712   4,760   3,624   4,933   3,804 
Engineering  1,085   191   1,508   410   663   245   1,287   750 
Environmental  122   212   181   235   153   313   424   482 
Geochemistry and geophysics  146   28   151   41   252   420   1,010   1,066 
Land and permitting  215   113   667   322   163   145   523   504 
Project support  3,062   2,703   4,066   3,381 
Other income  (26)  (34)  (26)  (34)  -   -   (1)  (20)
Project support  2,307   1,030   2,641   1,136 
Wages and benefits  1,361   762   1,800   1,061   1,734   1,520   2,722   2,366 
Mineral property expense  8,471   3,077   10,407   4,067   10,951   9,051   15,392   12,657 

 

Mineral property expenses consist of direct drilling, personnel, community, resource reporting and other exploration expenses as outlined above, as well as indirect project support expenses such as fixed wing charters, helicopter support, fuel, and other camp operation costs. Cumulative mineral properties expense in Alaska from the initial earn-in agreement on the property in 2004 to August 31, 20172019 is $73.4$110.0 million and cumulative acquisition costs are $30.6 million totaling $104.0$140.6 million spent to date.

 

5Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

 

in thousands of dollars

 

August 31, 2017

$

  

November 30, 2016

$

  

August 31, 2019

$

  

November 30, 2018

$

 
Trade accounts payable  2,179   160   3,271   400 
Accrued liabilities  2,494   281   901   503 
Accrued salaries and vacation  86   152   340   746 
Due to related parties  -   8 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities  4,759   593   4,512   1,657 

9

 

6Share capital

 

Authorized:

unlimited common shares, no par value

 

in thousands of dollars, except share amounts

  Number of shares  

Ascribed value

$

 
November 30, 2015  104,796,421   136,040 
Exercise of options  162,854   65 
Restricted Share Units  108,399   34 
Deferred Share Units  218,795   218 
November 30, 2016  105,286,469   136,357 
Exercise of options  171,458   54 
Restricted Share Units  209,198   83 
August 31, 2017, issued and outstanding  105,667,125   136,494 
  Number of shares  

Ascribed value

$

 
November 30, 2017  105,684,523   136,525 
Bought deal financing  24,784,482   28,750 
Share issuance costs  -   (1,805)
Exercise of options  315,148   140 
Restricted share units  800,000   457 
NovaGold DSU conversion  1,459   2 
November 30, 2018  131,585,612   164,069 
Exercise of options  203,112   122 
Restricted share units  412,501   424 
Deferred share units  182,132   189 
Exercise of warrants  6,521,740   12,166 
August 31, 2019, issued and outstanding  138,905,097   176,970 

 

On April 30, 2012, under the NovaGold Arrangement, Trilogy committed to issue common shares once vested, to satisfy holders of NovaGold deferred share units (“NovaGold DSUs”) on record as of the close of business on April 27, 2012. When vested, Trilogy committed to deliver one common shareCommon Share to the holder for every six shares of NovaGold the holder is entitled to receive, rounded down to the nearest whole number. As of August 31, 2017, 20,6852019, there remains 11,927 NovaGold DSUs remain outstanding representing a right to receive 3,447 common shares1,988 Common Shares in Trilogy, which will settle upon certain directors retiring from NovaGold’s board.

 

On April 20, 2018, the Company completed a bought-deal financing for gross proceeds of $28.7 million by issuing 24,784,482 common shares at $1.16 per common share. Expenses including bank commissions, legal fees, stock exchange and other fees totaled $1.8 million for net proceeds of $26.9 million.

(a)Stock options

 

During the nine month period- months ended August 31, 2017, 1,695,0002019, the Company granted 2,527,500 options (August 31, 2016(20181,785,0002,395,000 options) at a weighted-average exercise price of CDN$0.72 (August 31, 2016CAD$2.96 (2018CDN$0.44) were grantedCAD$1.15) to employees, consultants and directors exercisable for a period of five years with various vesting terms between nil and two years.from immediate vesting to over a two-year period. The weighted-average fair value attributable to options granted in the period was $0.22 per option.$1.08 (2018 - $0.43).

 

For the nine - month period ended August 31, 2017,2019, Trilogy recognized a stock-based compensation charge of $0.31$2.23 million (August 31, 2016– $0.33(2018 – $0.71 million) for options granted to directors, employees and service providers, net of estimated forfeitures.

 

The recognized fair value of the stock options recognized ingranted during the nine - month period ended August 31, 2019 has been estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.

10 

 

Assumptions used in the pricing model for the period are as provided below.

 

  August 31, 20172019 
Risk-free interest rates  0.892.03%
Exercise price  CDN$0.72CAD$2.97 
Expected life  3.0 years 
Expected volatility  74.375.0%
Expected dividends  Nil 

 

As of August 31, 2017,2019, there were 1,405,8431,775,005 non-vested options outstanding with a weighted average exercise price of $0.48;$1.82; the non-vested stock option expense not yet recognized was $0.1$0.63 million. This expense is expected to be recognized over the next two years.

 


A summary of the Company’s stock option plan and changes during the nine - month period ended August 31, 2019 is as follows:

 

 August 31, 2017   August 31, 2019 
 

 

 

Number of options

 

Weighted average
exercise price

$

   

 

 

Number of options

  

Weighted average
exercise price

$

 
Balance – beginning of period  6,049,433   0.50 
Balance – beginning of the period   8,821,434   0.60 
Granted  1,695,000   0.57    2,527,500   2.22 
Exercised  (362,477)  0.40    (306,432)  0.84 
Forfeited  (169,329)  0.50 
Balance – end of period  7,212,627   0.56    11,042,502   0.97 

 

The following table summarizes information about the stock options outstanding at August 31, 2017.2019.

 

 Outstanding  Exercisable  Unvested   Outstanding  Exercisable  Unvested 
Range of price Number of
outstanding
options
  Weighted
average
years to
expiry
  

Weighted
average
exercise
price

$

  Number of
exercisable
options
  

Weighted
average
exercise
price

$

  Number of
unvested
options
   Number of
outstanding
options
  Weighted
average years
to expiry
  

Weighted
average
exercise price

$

  Number of
exercisable
options
  

Weighted
average
exercise price

$

  Number of
unvested
options
 
$0.35 to $0.50  4,267,627   2.95   0.41   3,588,457   0.42   679,170 
$0.33 to $0.50   3,876,433   0.97   0.39   3,876,433   0.39   - 
$0.51 to $1.00  2,890,000   3.30   0.75   2,163,327   0.81   726,673    4,333,569   2.21   0.72   3,885,233   0.71   448,336 
$1.01 to $1.47  55,000   0.67   1.59   55,000   1.59   - 
$1.01 to $1.50   225,000   3.62   1.32   175,000   1.29   50,000 
$1.51 to $2.00   90,000   3.87   1.83   73,333   1.82   16,667 
$2.01 to $2.52   2,517,500   4.27   2.21   1,257,498   2.22   1,260,002 
  7,212,627   3.07   0.56   5,806,784   0.58   1,405,843    11,042,502   2.29   0.96   9,267,497   0.80   1,775,005 

 

The aggregate intrinsic value of vested share options (the market value less the exercise price) at August 31, 20172019 was $2.8$10.6 million (August 31, 2016(2018 - $0.49$9.2 million) and the aggregate intrinsic value of exercised options for the nine months- month period ended August 31, 20172019 was $0.15$0.5 million (August 31, 2016(2018 - $0.09$0.4 million).

 

(b)NovaGold Arrangement Options

Under the NovaGold Arrangement, holders of NovaGold stock options received one option in Trilogy for every six options held in NovaGold (“NovaGold Arrangement Options”). All NovaGold Arrangement Options remaining expired during the nine months ended August 31, 2017.

11 

A summary of the NovaGold Arrangement Options and changes during the nine month period ended is as follows:

  August 31, 2017 
  

 

 

Number of options

  

Weighted average
exercise price

$

 
Balance – beginning of period  312,195   4.26 
Expired  (312,195)  4.26 
Balance – end of period  -   - 

(c)Restricted Share Units and Deferred Share Units

 

The Company has a Restricted Share Unit Plan (“RSU Plan”) and a Non-Executive Director Deferred Share Unit Plan (“DSU Plan”) to provide long-term incentives to employees, officers and directors. TheAwards under the RSU Plan and DSU Plan may be settled in cash and/or Common Sharescommon shares of the Company at the Company’s election with each RSUrestricted share unit (“RSU”) and DSUdeferred share unit (“DSU”) entitling the holder to receive one common share of the Company or equivalent value. All units are accounted for as equity-settled awards.

 

A summary of the Company’s unit plans and changes during the nine - month period ended August 31, 20172019 is as follows:

 

 Number of RSUs  Number of DSUs   Number of RSUs  Number of DSUs 
Balance – beginning of period  400,001   925,390 
Balance – beginning of the period   400,002   1,182,106 
Granted  600,000   98,554    225,000   119,139 
Vested/paid  (399,999)  -    (412,501)  (182,132)
Balance – end of period  600,002   1,023,944    212,501   1,119,113 

 

For the nine months- month period ended August 31, 2017,2019, Trilogy recognized a stock-based compensation charge of $0.29$0.78 million (August 31, 2016- $0.22(2018 - $0.56 million), net of estimated forfeitures.

 

On December 15, 2016, 600,000As part of the annual incentive payout for the 2018 fiscal year, 225,000 RSUs were granted to officers during the three – month period ended February 28, 2019, vesting one third immediately, one thirdhalf on the grant date and half on the first anniversary of the grant date, and one thirddate. RSUs vesting in December 2018 were settled on the second anniversary. On December 23, 2016, 399,999 RSUs vested and were settled21, 2018 through the issuance of 209,198 shares and a cash payment of $90,000 to cover tax withholdings.412,501 common shares.


 

(d)(c)Share Purchase Warrants

 

A summary ofDuring the Company’s warrants and changes during the nine monthsthree - month period ended August 31, 2017 is as follows:2019, all the outstanding warrants were exercised in advance of the July 2, 2019 expiry date.  As a result of the warrants exercised, the Company issued a total of 6,521,740 common shares and received cash proceeds of approximately $9.9 million.

  

 

Number of
Warrants

  

Weighted
average years to
expiry

  

Weighted
average exercise
price

$

 
Balance – beginning of period  6,521,740   2.35   1.60 
Balance – end of period  6,521,740   1.85   1.60 

 

7Financial instruments

 

The Company is exposed to a variety of risks arising from financial instruments. These risks and management’s objectives, policies and procedures for managing these risks are disclosed as follows.

 

The Company’s financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, deposits, investments, and accounts payable and accrued liabilities. The fair value of the Company’s financial instruments approximates their carrying value due to the short-term nature of their maturity. The Company’s financial instruments initially measured at fair value and then held at amortized cost include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, deposits, and accounts payable and accrued liabilities. The Company’s investments arewere held for trading and arewere marked-to-market at each period end with changes in fair value recorded to the statement of loss. The South32 purchase option is a derivative financial liability measured at fair value with changes in value recorded to the statement of loss.

 

12 

Financial risk management

Financial risk management

 

The Company’s activities expose themit to certain financial risks, including currency risk, credit risk, liquidity risk, interest risk and price risk.

 

(a)Currency risk

 

Currency risk is the risk of a fluctuation in financial asset and liability settlement amounts due to a change in foreign exchange rates. The Company operates in the United States and Canada. The Company’s exposure to currency risk at August 31, 20172019 is limited to the Canadian dollar balances consisting of cash of CDN$2,596,000,205,000, accounts receivable of CDN$421,000, deposit amounts of CDN$116,000, investments of CDN$5,833,00062,000 and accounts payable of CDN$859,000.1,283,000. Based on a 10% change in the US-Canadian exchange rate, assuming all other variables remain constant, the Company’s net loss would change by approximately $647,000.

$76,000.

 

(b)Credit risk

 

Credit risk is the risk of an unexpected loss if a customer or third party to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations. The Company holds cash and cash equivalents with Canadian Chartered financial institutions. The Company’s accounts receivable consistconsists of GSTCanadian Goods and Services Tax receivable from the Federal Government of Canada and other receivables for recoverable expenses. The Company’s exposure to credit risk is equal to the balance of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable as recorded in the financial statements.

 

(c)Liquidity risk

 

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will encounter difficulties raising funds to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Company is in the exploration stage and does not have cash inflows from operations; therefore, the Company manages liquidity risk through the management of its capital structure and financial leverage. Management does expect to monetize its investments held over the next year to assist in meeting its operational requirements. Future financings are anticipated through the sale of investments, equity financing, the exercise of mineral properties option, debt financing, convertible debt, or other means.

 

Contractually obligated cash flow requirements as at August 31, 20172019 are as follows.follows:

 

in thousands of dollars

  

Total

$

  

< 1 Year

$

  

1–2 Years

$

  

2–5 Years

$

  

Thereafter

$

 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities  4,759   4,759   -   -   - 
Office lease (note 8)  1,349   44   178   580   547 
   6,108   4,803   178   580   547 

On February 21, 2017, the Company entered into a lease for office space effective July 1, 2017 for a period of seven years with a total commitment of $1.3 million.

  

Total
$

  

<1 Year
$

  

1–2 Years
$

  

2–5 Years
$

  

Thereafter
$

 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities  4,512   4,512        -       -         - 
   4,512   4,512   -   -   - 

 

(d)Interest rate risk

 

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates. The Company is exposed to interest rate risk with respect to interest earned on cash and cash equivalents. Based on balances as at August 31, 2017,2019, a 1% change in interest rates would result in a change in net loss of $0.1$0.2 million, assuming all other variables remain constant.

 

As we are currently in the exploration phase none of our financial instruments are exposed to commodity price risk; however, our ability to obtain long-term financing and its economic viability could be affected by commodity price volatility.

13 

8Fair value accounting

Financial instruments measured at fair value are classified into one of three levels in the fair value hierarchy according to the significance of the inputs used in making the measurement. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:

Level 1 — Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities;

Level 2 — Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; and

Level 3 — Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (supported by little or no market activity)

The levels in the fair value hierarchy into which the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured and recognized at fair value on a recurring basis were categorized as follows:

in thousands of dollars

  

August 31, 2017

$

  

November 30, 2016

$

 
  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3 
Current investments – shares  4,571   -   -   7,538   -   - 
Investments – warrants  -   -   81   -   -   297 
South32 purchase option  -   -   -   -   -   - 

The Company’s investments consist of shares and warrants in a publicly-held mining company. The share investments are recorded as current investments and are valued using quoted market prices in active markets and as such are classified as a Level 1 financial instrument. The warrants are valued using a Black-Scholes pricing model and are considered a Level 3 financial instrument because the valuation models have significant unobservable inputs.

The South32 purchase option received is recorded at fair value. As the inputs to valuing the purchase option are significant to the measurement of the option and are unobservable, it is considered a Level 3 financial instrument.

8CommitmentsCommitment

 

The Company has commitments inwith respect ofto office and warehouse leases requiring future minimum lease payments as follows:

in thousands of dollars

  

August 31, 2017

$

 
2017  44 
2018  178 
2019 

184

 
2020  193 
2021  203 
2022-2024  547 
Total  1,349 

August 31, 2019
$

One year

237

Years 2 through 5452
Beyond 5 years372
Total1,061

 

14 

Item 2.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Trilogy Metals Inc.

 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

(expressed in US dollars)

Cautionary notes

 

Forward-looking statements

Forward-looking statements

 

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and Canadianother applicable securities laws. These forward-looking statements may include statements regarding outlook, perceived merit of properties, the timing and filing of updated technical reports, the timing of permitting,exploration results and budgets, mineral reserves and resource estimates, work programs, capital expenditures, operating costs, cash flow estimates, production estimates and similar statements relating to the economic viability of a project, timelines, strategic plans, statements relating to anticipated activity with respect to the Ambler Mining District Industrial Access Project, includingregarding the Company’s plans and expectations relating to its Upper Kobuk Mineral Projects, the adequacy of the funds paid by South32 under the Option Agreement including pursuant to the exercise of the option to fund the UKMP through to feasibility and permitting of the first mine, the exercise of the option by South32, market prices for precious and base metals, or other statements that are not statements of fact. These statements relate to analyses and other information that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management. Statements concerning mineral resource estimates may also be deemed to constitute “forward-looking statements” to the extent that they involve estimates of the mineralization that will be encountered if the property is developed.

 

Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, identified by words or phrases such as “expects”, “is expected”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “plans”, “projects”, “estimates”, “assumes”, “intends”, “strategy”, “goals”, “objectives”, “potential”, “possible” or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events, conditions or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “should”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

 

Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material assumptions, including those listed below, which could prove to be significantly incorrect:

 

·assumptions made in the interpretation of drill results, and of the geology, grade and continuity of the Company’s mineral deposits;
·our ability to achieve production at any of the Company’s mineral exploration and development properties;
·our expected ability to develop adequate infrastructure and that the cost of doing so will be reasonable;
·assumptions that all necessary permits and governmental approvals will be obtained;
·estimated capital costs, operating costs, production and economic returns;
·estimated metal pricing, metallurgy, mineability, marketability and operating and capital costs, together with other assumptions underlying the Company’s resource and reserve estimates;
·continued good relationships with local communities and other stakeholders;
·our expectations regarding demand for equipment, skilled labour and services needed for exploration and development of mineral properties;
·assumptions regarding the merit of litigation; and
·that our activities will not be adversely disrupted or impeded by development, operating or regulatory risks.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation:

 

·risks related to the inability to define proven and probable reserves;
·risks related to our ability to finance the development of our mineral properties through external financing, strategic alliances, the sale of property interests or otherwise;
·none of the Company’s mineral properties are in production or are under development;

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·uncertainty as to whether South32 will exercise its option under the Option Agreement;
·uncertainties relating to the assumptions underlying our resource estimates, such as metal pricing, metallurgy, mineability, marketability and operating and capital costs;


·risks related to lack of infrastructure including but not limited to the risk whether or not the Ambler Mining District Industrial Access Project (“AMDIAP”) will receive the requisite permits and, if it does, whether Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority will build the AMDIAP;
·uncertainty as to whether there will ever be production at the Company’s mineral exploration and development properties;
·uncertainty as to estimates of capital costs, operating costs, production and economic returns;
·risks related to our ability to commence production and generate material revenues or obtain adequate financing for our planned exploration and development activities;
·risks related to future sales or issuances of equity securities decreasing the value of existing Trilogy common shares, diluting voting power and reducing future earnings per share;
·risks related to market events and general economic conditions;
·uncertainty related to inferred mineral resources;
·uncertainty related to the economic projections contained herein derived from the Preliminary Economic AssessmentPre-Feasibility Study titled “Preliminary Economic Assessment Report“Arctic Project, Northwest Alaska, USA, NI 43-101 technical report on the Arctic Project, Ambler Mining District, Northwest Alaska”Pre-Feasibility Study” dated effective September 12, 2013;February 20, 2018;
·risks related to inclement weather which may delay or hinder exploration activities at its mineral properties;
·risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of our mineral deposits;
·mining and development risks, including risks related to infrastructure, accidents, equipment breakdowns, labor disputes or other unanticipated difficulties with or interruptions in development, construction or production;
·the risk that permits and governmental approvals necessary to develop and operate mines at our mineral properties will not be available on a timely basis or at all;
·commodity price fluctuations;
·risks related to governmental regulation and permits, including environmental regulation, including the risk that more stringent requirements or standards may be adopted or applied due to circumstances unrelated to the Company and outside of its control;
·risks related to the need for reclamation activities on our properties and uncertainty of cost estimates related thereto;
·uncertainty related to title to our mineral properties;
·our history of losses and expectation of future losses;
·risks related to increases in demand for equipment, skilled labor and services needed for exploration and development of mineral properties, and related cost increases;
·our need to attract and retain qualified management and technical personnel;
·risks related to conflicts of interests of some of our directors;directors and officers;
·risks related to potential future litigation;
·risks related to the voting power of our major shareholders and the impact that a sale by such shareholders may have on our share price;
·risks related to global climate change;
·risks related to adverse publicity from non-governmental organizations;
·uncertainty as to the volatility in the price of the Company’s shares;
·the Company’s expectation of not paying cash dividends;
·adverse federal income tax consequences for U.S. shareholders should the Company be a passive foreign investment company;
·uncertainty as to our ability to maintain the adequacy of internal control over financial reporting as per the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; and
·increased regulatory compliance costs, associated with rules and regulations promulgated by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), Canadian Securities Administrators, the NYSE American, the TSX, and the Financial Accounting Standards Boards, and more specifically, our efforts to comply with the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.Act and the newly adopted SEC mining disclosure rules.

 

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This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of the Company’s forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements about the future and are inherently uncertain, and actual achievements of the Company or other future events or conditions may differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors, including, without limitation, those referred to in Trilogy’s Form 10-K dated February 2, 2017,11, 2019, filed with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities and the SEC, and other information released by Trilogy and filed with the appropriate regulatory agencies.

 

The Company’s forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, expectations and opinions of management on the date the statements are made, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management’s beliefs, expectations or opinions should change, except as required by law. For the reasons set forth above, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Cautionary note to United States investors

Reserve and resource estimates

 

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Cautionary note to United States investors

Reserve and resource estimates

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the securities laws in effect in Canada, which differ from the requirements of U.S. securities laws. Unless otherwise indicated, all resource and reserve estimates included in this Management’s Discussion and Analysis have been prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”) and the 2014 Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves. NI 43-101 is a rule developed by the Canadian Securities Administrators which establishes standards for all public disclosure an issuer makes of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects. Canadian standards, including NI 43-101, differ significantly from the requirements of the SEC, and resource and reserve information contained herein may not be comparable to similar information disclosed by U.S. companies. In particular, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the term “resource” does not equate to the term “reserves”. Under U.S. standards, mineralization may not be classified as a “reserve” unless the determination has been made that the mineralization could be economically and legally produced or extracted at the time the reserve determination is made. The SEC’s disclosure standards normally do not permit the inclusion of information concerning “measured mineral resources”, “indicated mineral resources” or “inferred mineral resources” or other descriptions of the amount of mineralization in mineral deposits that do not constitute “reserves” by U.S. standards in documents filed with the SEC. Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into reserves. U.S. investors should also understand that “inferred mineral resources” have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence and great uncertainty as to their economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an “inferred mineral resource” has a lower level of confidence than an “indicated mineral resource” and must not be converted to a mineral “reserve”. It is reasonably expected that the majority of “inferred mineral resources” couldwill ever be upgraded to “indicated mineral resources” with continued exploration.a higher category. Under Canadian rules, estimated “inferred mineral resources” may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies except in rare cases. Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of an “inferred mineral resource” exists or is economically or legally mineable. Disclosure of “contained ounces” in a resource is permitted disclosure under Canadian regulations; however, the SEC normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute “reserves” by SEC standards as in-place tonnage and grade without reference to unit measures. The requirements of NI 43-101 for identification of “reserves” are also not the same as those of the SEC, and reserves reported by the Company in compliance with NI 43-101 may not qualify as “reserves” under SEC standards. Accordingly, information concerning mineral deposits set forth herein may not be comparable with information made public by companies that report in accordance with U.S. standards.

General

 

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) of Trilogy Metals Inc. (“Trilogy”, “Trilogy Metals”, “the Company” or “we”) is dated October 4, 20178, 2019 and provides an analysis of our unaudited interim financial results for the quarter ended August 31, 20172019 compared to the quarter ended August 31, 2016.

2018.

 

The following information should be read in conjunction with our August 31, 20172019 unaudited interim consolidated financial statements and related notes which were prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”). The MD&A should also be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and related notes for the year ended November 30, 2016.2018. A summary of the U.S. GAAP accounting policies areis outlined in note 2 of the audited consolidated financial statements and note 2 of the interim consolidated financial statements. All amounts are in United States dollars unless otherwise stated. References to “Canadian dollars” and “C$” and “CDN$” are to the currency of Canada and references to “U.S. dollars”, “$” or “US$” are to the currency of the United States.

 

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Andrew W. West, P.Geo., an employee and Exploration Manager, for Trilogy, is a Qualified Person under National InstrumentNI 43-101, -Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”), and has approved the scientific and technical information in this MD&A.

 

Trilogy’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) and the NYSE-AmericanNYSE American Stock Exchange (“NYSE American”) under the symbol “TMQ”. Additional information related to Trilogy, including our annual report on Form 10-K, is available on SEDAR atwww.sedar.com and on EDGAR atwww.sec.gov.

 

Description of business

 

We are a base metals exploration company focused on exploring and developing our mineral holdings in the Ambler mining district located in Alaska, U.S.A. We conduct our operations through a wholly-owned subsidiary, NovaCopper US Inc. which is doing business as Trilogy Metals US.US (“Trilogy Metals US”). Our Upper Kobuk Mineral Projects, (“UKMP” or “UKMP Projects”), consist of: i) the 100% owned Ambler lands which host the Arctic copper-zinc-lead-gold-silver Project (the “Arctic Project”); and ii) the Bornite lands being explored under a collaborative long-term agreement with NANA Regional Corporation, Inc. (“NANA”), a regional Alaska Native Corporation, which host the Bornite carbonate-hosted copper Project (the “Bornite Project”).


Corporate developments

 

Appointment of Interim CEO

In a press release dated September 5, 2019, we announced the resignation of Rick Van Nieuwenhuyse as CEO, President and director of Trilogy Metals and the appointment of James Gowans as President and CEO on an interim basis.Mr. Van Nieuwenhuyse will remain as a consultant to the Company until January 31, 2020 and will assist with transitional matters and with advancing the Company’s interests in Alaska. Mr. Gowans is a director of the Company and was President and CEO of Arizona Mining Inc. from 2016 to 2018 when Arizona Mining was purchased by South32 Limited. Previously he was a Senior Advisor to the Chairman, Co-President and EVP and COO at Barrick Gold Corporation from 2014 to 2015. Mr. Gowans has extensive experience in Alaska. He completed the feasibility study for the Red Dog Mine, oversaw the design and construction of that mine and then operated Red Dog for three years after commissioning.

Exercise of Warrants

During the three-month period ended August 31, 2019, all our outstanding warrants were exercised. Three of the Company’s largest shareholders exercised 6,521,740 in outstanding warrants. As a result of the warrant exercise, we issued a total of 6,521,740 common shares of the Company and received cash proceeds of approximately $9.9 million. 

Outlook & Project activities

 

Ambler Mining District Industrial Access Project (“AMDIAP”)

In a press release dated August 23, 2019, we announced the public release of the draft Environmental Impact Statement (“EIS”) for the Ambler access road by the United States Bureau of Land Management (“BLM”). This is a critical milestone for the permitting of the AMDIAP in relation to further exploration and development of the Ambler Mining District. The focusBLM, which is the lead agency for the permitting of this third fiscal quarterthe AMDIAP, has now completed the draft EIS which has been working to advance our projects. Withposted on the BLM website. The next step is a combined 2017 budget of $17.1 million forpublic comment period. Comments on the Bornite and Arctic Projects, this quarter was busy at our remote project sites in northwest Alaska.

Bornite Projectdraft EIS will be accepted through October 29, 2019.

 

Arctic Project

We are currently executing a $10 million exploration program

During the third quarter ended August 31, 2019, we drilled 11 holes at the BorniteArctic Project fundedresulting in approximately 2,411 meters drilled, utilizing two rigs from Tuuq Drilling LLC (“Tuuq”). Tuuq is owned by South32 Group Operations Pty Ltd.,NANA Development Corporation. We anticipate announcing drill results from the 2019 Arctic drill program during the fourth quarter of 2019. Work at the Arctic deposit commenced in late June with a subsidiaryview of South32 Limited (ASX/JSE/LSE: S32), (“South32”) under an Option Agreement on the UKMP entered into on April 10, 2017 (“Option Agreement”).completing feasibility level geotechnical and hydrology work. The focusmain goal of this year’s work program iswas to target high-grade copper mineralization northcomplete engineering and east of the previously identified resourcesenvironmental studies to prepare a NI 43-101 compliant feasibility study which were last drilled by us in 2013 andresults are anticipated to define the edges of the mineralized system. This year’s exploration at Bornite was approved by a joint Trilogy-South32 Technical Committee.

Under the terms of the Option Agreement, Trilogy Metals US granted South32 the right to form a 50/50 joint venture to hold all of the Company’s Alaskan assets currently held directly by Trilogy Metals US. Upon exercise of the option, Trilogy Metals US will transfer its Alaskan assets, including the UKMP, and South32 will contribute a minimum of $150 million, subject to certain adjustments, to a newly formed and jointly held, limited liability company.

To maintain the option in good standing, South32 is required to fund a minimum of $10 million per year for up to a three year period, which funds will be used to execute a mutually agreed upon program at the UKMP. South32 may exercise its option at any time over the next three years to enter into the 50/50 joint venture. Provided that all the exploration data and information has been made available to South32 by no later than December 31 of each year, South32 must decide by the end of January of the following year whether: (i) to fund a further tranche of a minimum of $10 million, or (ii) to withdraw and not provide any further annual funding. If the election to fund a further tranche is not made in January, South32 has until the end of March to exercise the option to form the LLC and make the subscription payment.

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This year’s exploration program at Bornite is one of the larger programsreleased in the historyfirst half of drilling at the Bornite Project. With an approved budget of $10 million, we will be drilling approximately 9,000 meters at Bornite this field season to test the extension of the mineralization from the drill holes from our 2013 drill campaign along with a ground gravity survey, continuation of hydrology data collection and initiating metallurgy and acid based accounting for Bornite.

Drilling at the Bornite Project began in early June and2020. Work is expected to be finished in early October with results released throughout the fall. We completed 6,037 meters by August 31, 2017 and released our first results on September 18, 2017 from the first three holes comprising 3,083 meters.

Arctic Project

In early June 2017, we announced the engagement of Ausenco Engineering Canada Inc.also being done to prepare the Arctic Project PFS technical report anticipatedfor permitting, which we expect to be completecommence in Q1 2018.2020. The Company has also engaged Amec Foster Wheeler to complete mine planningpermitting preparation work being carried out will support Federal, State and SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc. to complete tailings and waste design, hydrology and environmental studies.Borough permitting requirements.

 

The summer field program for the ArcticBornite Project PFS was conducted in July with the completion of 257 meters of geotechnical drilling and 26 test pits completed to determine site facility locations and mine design. We also completed geophysical ground surveys to evaluate ground conditions. We continued our environmental baseline program through the summer of 2017 which includes baseline data collection on aquatic and avian resources, ongoing water quality, hydrology and meteorology. The water quality program was expanded in 2017 to include additional sample locations and increased sample frequency.

 

The main goal of the 2019 drill program was to drill approximately 8,000 meters within 12 holes, including both infill and expansion drilling. Exploration activities commenced at the beginning of June with 7,598 meters of drilling completed through to August 31, 2019. In a press release dated September 10, 2019, we announced assay results on 4 holes comprising approximately 3,014 meters from the recently completed 7,610-meter drill campaign. We anticipate announcing further drill results from this summer’s fieldthe 2019 Bornite drill program are currently being compiled and analyzed byduring the PFS consultants. The timingfourth quarter of the field program will provide the information required for completion of the PFS anticipated to be in Q1 2018.2019.

 

We also completed 455 meters of infill drilling at Arctic in late August collecting core to provide two tonnes of material for an ore-sorting study to be initiated in Q4 2017.

Regional Exploration

 

Outlook

Our 2017 program has a total budgetDistrict-wide Versatile Time Domain Electromagnetic (“VTEM”) and Z – Axis Tipper Electromagnetic (“ZTEM”) helicopter airborne geophysical surveys were completed this spring along the entire 100-kilometer long belt of $17.1 million with $7.1 million to be expended during the fiscal year to advancefavorable stratigraphy hosting known polymetallic volcanogenic-massive sulphide (“VMS”) deposits, as well as the Arctic Project to pre-feasibility and $10.0 million for the exploration program atareas around the Bornite Project. The Arctic Project PFS will be supported by information collected during the 2015 - 2017 field seasons. The completion of our 2017 field program has completed a staged three-year site investigation program where the first two years focused almost exclusively on collecting data in and around the proposed Arctic open-pit,deposit and the third year focused on infrastructuresurrounding Cosmos Hills area. The surveys were flown by Geotech Ltd. and mine design.the data is currently being re-processed by Resource Potential PTY Ltd. The Arctic Project PFS is anticipated to be completed in Q1 2018.new VTEM and ZTEM surveys have been integrated into our dataset of historical drilling accumulated over a 40-year period of exploration, all of which have been geo-referenced into an integrated GIS database.

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The exploration program atdrilling completed during the Bornite Projectfield season targeted the Sunshine prospect, which is an opportunity to potentially expandapproximately eight miles (13 kilometers) from the sizeArctic Project. In a press release dated September 10, 2019, we announced assay results for one drill hole from the Sunshine prospect comprising 161 meters of the Bornite deposit by drilling the extensions of mineralization last drilled by the Company in 2013. Approximately 9,000 meters will be drilled1,357 meter, six-hole drill campaign at Bornite which drilling will be focused entirely on testing the size and depth of the extension of the known deposit. Drilling at the Bornite Project commenced in early June and will continue through to early October withthis prospect. We anticipate announcing further drill results anticipated to be released throughfrom the fall. Initial drill results were released on September 18, 2017 on2019 regional exploration program during the first three drill holes.fourth quarter of 2019.

 

Property review

 

Our principal assets, the UKMP Projects, are located in the Ambler mining district in Northwest Alaska. Our UKMP Projects comprise approximately 355,385355,400 acres (143,819(143,825 hectares) consisting of the Ambler and Bornite lands.

 

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Arctic Project

 

The Ambler lands, which host a number ofseveral deposits, including the high-grade copper-zinc-lead-gold-silver Arctic Project, and other mineralized targets within a 100 kilometer long volcanogenic massive sulfide (“VMS”)100-kilometer-long VMS belt, are owned by Trilogy MetalsNovaCopper US. The Ambler lands are located in Northwestern Alaska and consist of 114,500 acres (46,337 hectares) of Federal patented mining claims and State of Alaska mining claims, within which VMS mineralization has been found.

 

We have recorded the Ambler lands as a mineral property with acquisition costs capitalized and exploration costs expensed in accordance with our accounting policies.

 

Bornite Project

 

On October 19, 2011, Trilogy Metals US and NANA signed a collaborative agreement to explore and develop the Ambler mining district. Under the Exploration Agreement and Option to Lease (the “NANA Agreement”), we acquired, in exchange for, among other things, a $4.0 million cash payment to NANA, the exclusive right to explore the Bornite property and lands deeded to NANA through the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (“ANCSA”), located adjacent to the Arctic Project, and the non-exclusive right to access and entry onto NANA’s lands. The agreement establishes a framework for any future development of either the Bornite Project or the Arctic Project. Both projects are included as part of a larger area of interest set forth in the NANA Agreement. The agreement with NANA created a total land package incorporating our Ambler lands with the adjacent Bornite and ANCSA lands with a total area of approximately 355,385355,400 acres (143,819(143,825 hectares).

 

Upon the decision to proceed with development of a mine within the area of interest, NANA maintains the right to purchase an ownership interest in the mine equal to a range between 16%-25% or retain a 15% net proceeds royalty which is payable after we have recovered certain historical costs, including capital and cost of capital. Should NANA elect to purchase an ownership interest in the mine, consideration will be payable based on the elected percentage purchased and all the costs incurred on the properties less $40.0 million, not to be less than zero. The parties would form a joint venture and be responsible for all future costs incurred in connection with the mine, including capital costs of the mine, based on each party’s pro-rata share.

 

NANA would also be granted a net smelter return royalty between 1% and 2.5% upon the execution of a mining lease or a surface use agreement, the amount of which is determined by the particular area of land from which production originates.

 

We have accounted for the Bornite property as a mineral property with acquisition costs capitalized and exploration costs expensed in accordance with our accounting policies.

South32 Option Agreement

On April 10, 2017, Trilogy and Trilogy Metals US entered into an Option Agreement to form a Joint Venture with South32 Group Operations Pty Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of South32 Limited, which agreement was later assigned by South32 Operations to its affiliate, South32 USA Exploration Inc. (“South32”) on the UKMP (“Option Agreement”). Under the terms of the Option Agreement, as amended, Trilogy Metals US granted South32 the right to form a 50/50 joint venture to hold all of Trilogy Metals US’ Alaskan assets. Upon exercise of the option, Trilogy Metals US will transfer its Alaskan assets, including the UKMP, and South32 will contribute a minimum of $150 million, to a newly formed and jointly held, limited liability company (“LLC”).

 

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To maintain the option in good standing, South32 is required to fund a minimum of $10 million per year for up to a three-year period, which funds will be used to execute a mutually agreed upon program at the UKMP. The funds provided by South32 may only be expended in accordance with an approved program by a technical committee with equal representation from Trilogy and South32. South32 may exercise its option at any time over the three-year period to enter into the 50/50 joint venture. To subscribe for 50% of the JV, South32 must contribute a minimum of $150 million, plus (i) any amounts Trilogy spends on matched parallel funding to a maximum of $16 million over the three year period and (ii) $5 million if the option is exercised between April 1, 2018 and March 31, 2019 or $10 million if the option is exercised between April 1, 2019 and the expiration date of the option, less the amount of the initial funding contributed by South32 (the “Subscription Price”). South32 has now funded the full three-year option period. South32 has until the end of January 2020 to exercise the option to form the JV LLC and make the subscription payment.

Option Funding Phase

Provided that all the exploration data and information has been made available to South32 by no later than December 31 of each year, South32 must decide by the end of January of the following year whether; (i) to fund a further tranche of a minimum of $10 million, or (ii) to withdraw and not provide any further annual funding. In years 1 and 2, if the election to fund a further tranche is not made in January, South32 has until the end of March to exercise the option to form the LLC and make the subscription payment. If South32 elects to exercise the option, the Subscription Price shall be paid in one tranche within 45 business days. Should South32 not make its annual minimum payment or elect to withdraw, the option will lapse and South32 will have no claim to ownership or the funds it had already spent. The option payment for the first year was paid by South32 in April 2017 and expended on the Year 1 exploration program at the Bornite Project. Early in December 2017, South32 committed to fund the $10 million 2018 program for the Bornite Project. The funds, which represent the second tranche, maintain the Option Agreement in good standing, and were fully received on January 24, 2018. An additional $0.80 million was received during the year ended November 30, 2018 from South32 as an advance on the year three funding.

On January 31, 2019, we announced the 2019 program and budgets with South32 committing to fund the $9.2 million budget for the Bornite Project. The funds, which represent the third and final tranche, maintain the Option Agreement in good standing, and were fully received during the quarter ended February 28, 2019.

Subscription Funding Phase

At any time during the option funding phase of the agreement, South32 may elect to subscribe for a 50% interest in a newly formed LLC which will take transfer of, and hold, Trilogy Metals US’ Alaskan assets. As part of the Subscription Price, South32 will match any spending expended by us at the Arctic Project over 3 years (2017, 2018 and 2019), to a cumulative maximum of $16 million. Depending on when the option is exercised, certain amounts of the Initial Funding will be deducted from the Subscription Price.

Trilogy currently estimates that the Subscription Price would fund the UKMP through feasibility and the permitting of the first mine to be developed in the Ambler mining district. Once the full amount of the subscription payment of approximately $150 million is expended, the parties will contribute funding pro rata, as contemplated by the operating agreement which will govern the LLC (the “LLC Agreement”). The LLC Agreement anticipates a General Manager, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating and Technical Officer to be appointed by the LLC’s Board, which will have equal representation from Trilogy and South32.

As the initial option payments received to date are credited against the future subscription price upon exercise, we have accounted for the payments received as deferred consideration. At such time as the option is exercised, the initial payments received to that date will be recognized as part of the consideration received for our contribution of the Alaska assets, including the UKMP, into the joint venture. If South 32 withdraws from the Option Agreement, the consideration will be recognized in the statement of loss at that time.


Summary of results

in thousands of dollars,

except for per share amounts

 Three months ended  Nine months ended  Three months ended Nine months ended 
Selected expenses 

August 31,
2017

$

  

August 31,
2016

$

  

August 31,
2017

$

  

August 31,
2016

$

  

August 31, 2019
$

  

August 31, 2018
$

  

August 31, 2019
$

  

August 31, 2018
$

 
Foreign exchange (gain) loss  (592)  3   (542)  8 
General and administrative  273   311   1,050   1,030   435   376   1,363   1,175 
Mineral properties expense  8,471   3,077   10,407   4,067   10,951   9,051   15,392   12,657 
Professional fees  86   84   404   430   414   13   658   286 
Salaries  218   250   683   719   272   286   835   738 
Salaries – stock-based compensation  104   146   603   544   402   204   3,005   1,277 
Unrealized loss on held for trading investments  83   -   1,252   - 
Loss from continuing operations for the period  8,992   3,902   14,378   6,885 
Loss from discontinued operations for the period  -   353   -   712 
Investor relations  164   59   456   261 
Loss and comprehensive loss for the period  8,992   4,255   14,378   7,597   12,535   9,920   21,380   16,530 
Basic and diluted loss per common share $0.09  $0.04  $0.14  $0.07  $0.09  $0.08  $0.16  $0.14 

 

For the three - month period ended August 31, 2019, Trilogy reported a net loss of $12.5 million (or $0.09 basic and diluted loss per common share) which was higher than the net loss of $9.9 million for the comparative period in 2018 (or $0.08 basic and diluted loss per common share). This variance was primarily due to an increase in mineral properties expense due to the size, scope and timing of the field program versus the comparative three – month period.

The $1.9 million difference in mineral properties expense consists of the following changes. During the three months ended August 31, 2017,2019, we completed 2,411 meters (2018 – 593 meters) of drilling at the Arctic project, 7,598 meters (2018 – 7,707 meters) at the Bornite project and executed a new regional exploration drilling program of approximately 1,357 meters. As a result, we incurred increased drilling costs of $1.1 million and increased project supporting costs of $0.6 million (including camp operation, logistics and personnel). The remaining variance in mineral properties expense consists of an increase of $0.4 million in engineering costs related to the feasibility study and the geotechnical study for the Arctic project, an increase of $0.1 million in geochemistry costs associated with drill assay testing, all offset by a $0.3 million decrease in geophysics and environment related costs.

Other differences noted for the comparable periods were: i) a slight increase in general and administrative expenses in the current period; ii) an increase of $0.4 million in professional fees due to increased legal fees; iii) an increase of $0.2 million in stock-based compensation due to a higher share price contributing to a higher fair value vesting for previously granted stock options, RSUs and DSUs; and iv) an increase of $0.1 million in investor relations expenses due to our increased level of marketing activity including attendance at more investor conferences and meetings in the current period.

For the nine - month period ended August 31, 2019, Trilogy reported a net loss of $9.0$21.4 million (or $0.09$0.16 basic and diluted loss per common share) compared to a net loss of $4.3$16.5 million for the corresponding period in 2016 (or $0.04 basic and diluted loss per common share). This variance of $4.7 million was primarily due to the size of the field programs at the UKMP in 2017 as well as the timing of the program. An increase of $5.4 million in mineral property expenses incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2017 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2016 accounted for the increase in its entirety. The 2017 program consists of a $10.0 million exploration program at the Bornite Project, funded by South32, and a $7.1 million program towards completing a pre-feasibility study at the Arctic Project expected to be completed in Q1 2018. Comparably, in 2016, the field program consisted of a drill program at Arctic to prepare the project for pre-feasibility work. The field program in 2017 began in late May and continued through the third quarter. In 2016, the field program consisted of a 45-day program that wrapped up in late July. The increase in the mineral property expenses is due to the size and variety of the programs being undertaken. The increase was offset by slight decreases in general and administrative, salaries and stock-based compensation expense during the three months ended August 31, 2017 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2016.

Trilogy recognized a gain on foreign exchange during the three months ended August 31, 2017 of $0.6 million due to the appreciation of the Canadian dollar in the current fiscal year. We were holding a higher average volume of cash and cash equivalents in Canadian dollars during the third quarter of 2017 mainly due to the sale of investments which consist of shares in Gold Mining Inc. (“GMI”). The investments are also denominated in Canadian dollars and benefited from the appreciation of the Canadian dollar in the third quarter. We acquired the investments on September 1, 2016 as consideration for the sale of Sunward Investments Limited (“Sunward”) and its Titiribi gold-copper exploration project in Colombia. As such, a comparable foreign currency movement did not exist in the third quarter of 2016. There was also a loss from discontinued operations of $0.4 million for the three months ended August 31, 2016 which relates to the sale of Sunward. There is no comparable amount in the current fiscal year as the sale was completed on September 1, 2016. Other minor differences noted for the comparable periods were i) a small decrease in general and administrative expenses; ii) a small decrease in salaries due to lower level of staff in the third quarter of 2017 compared to 2016; and iii) a small decrease in stock-based compensation due to the timing of the amortization of expense.

The basic and diluted loss per common share of $0.09 for the three months ended August 31, 2017 increased from the basic and diluted loss per common share of $0.04 for the three months ended August 31, 2016 due to the increased loss as described above.

21 

For the nine months ended August 31, 2017, Trilogy reported a net loss of $14.4 million2018 (or $0.14 basic and diluted loss per common share) compared to a net loss of $7.6.

The $2.7 million for the corresponding period in 2016 (or $0.07 basic and diluted loss per common share). The increase in net loss is primarily due to an increase in mineral propertyproperties expense in relation to the comparative nine - month period ended August 31, 2018 consist of $6.3 million from $4.1 millionthe following changes. Due to the increased size and scope of the 2019 field program, we drilled 3,066 more meters for the nine - months ended August 31, 2016 to $10.4 million for the nine months ended August 31, 2017. Similarly2019 in contrast to the comparative period, resulting in an increase of $1.1 million in drilling costs. Project support and personnel costs increased by $1.1 million and includes $0.5 million in VTEM and ZTEM airborne survey costs, for which there are no prior year comparatives. The remaining variance in the three-month periods, the field program being executed in 2017 is significantly larger and more varied than the field program completed in 2016. The variance is also due tomineral properties expense consists of an unrealized loss on investments on the GMI securities of $1.3 million classified as held for trading for which changes in the fair value of the investments are recorded through the statement of loss. There are no comparable amounts for the nine months ended August 31, 2016 as the Company acquired the investments in September 2016.

Trilogy recognized a gain on foreign exchange during the nine months ended August 31, 2017increase of $0.5 million due to the appreciationin engineering costs and an increase of the Canadian dollar$0.3 million in the current quarter as well as the volumegeochemistry costs, all offset by a decrease of funds held$0.3 million in Canadian dollars. There is no comparable amount in 2016 due to the timing of acquiring the GMI investments. Additionally, there was a loss from discontinued operations of $0.7 million for the nine months ended August 31, 2016 from the operations of Sunward for which there is no comparable amount in 2017. geophysics costs.

Other minor differences noted for the comparable periods werewere: i) a smallan increase of $0.2 million in general and administrative expenses;administration costs primarily due to increased stock exchange fees, office computer hardware and software, and travel costs; ii) a small decreaseslight increase in salaries; iii) an increase of $0.2 million in investor relations expenses due to our increased level of marketing activity including attendance at more investor conferences and meetings during the nine - month period ended August 31, 2019; iv) an increase of $0.4 million in professional fees due to a lower levelincreased legal fees; and v) an increase of corporate activity compared to 2016, iii) a small decrease in salaries due to lower level of staff in the third quarter of 2017 compared to 2016; and iv) a small increase$1.7 million in stock-based compensation due to increasing Black-Scholes valuations from an increaseda higher share price.

The basicprice contributing to a greater fair value amortization of stock options, RSUs and diluted loss per common share of $0.14 forDSUs granted during the nine months- month period ended August 31, 2017 increased from the basic and diluted loss per common share of $0.07 for the nine months ended August 31, 2016 due to the increased loss as described above.2019.

 


Selected financial data

 

Quarterly information

in thousands of dollars,

except per share amounts

 Q3 2017  Q2 2017  Q1 2017  Q4 2016  Q3 2016  Q2 2016  Q1 2016  Q4 2015  Q3 2019  Q2 2019  Q1 2019  Q4 2018  Q3 2018  Q2 2018  Q1 2018  Q4 2017 
 

08/31/17

$

  

05/31/17

$

  

02/28/17

$

  

11/30/16

$

  

08/31/16

$

 

05/31/16

$

 

02/29/16

$

 

11/30/15

$

  08/31/19
$
 05/31/19
$
  02/28/19
$
  11/30/18
$
  08/31/18
$
  05/31/18
$
  02/28/17
$
  11/30/17
$
 
Interest and other income  23   12   11   10   16   18   18   12   137   150   122   117   135   77   17   13 
Mineral property expenses  8,471   1,297   639   970   3,077   458   532   779   10,951   2,906   1,535   3,833   9,051   2,475   1,131   4,693 
Income (loss) from discontinued operations for the period  -   -   -   4,561   (352)  (187)  (172)  (200)
Earnings (loss) for the period  (8,992)  (2,390)  (2,996)  2,736   (4,255)  (1,648)  (1,695)  (2,090)  (12,535)  (4,509)  (4,336)  (5,319)  (9,920)  (3,664)  (2,946)  (6,726)
Earnings (loss) per common share – basic and diluted  (0.09)  (0.02)  (0.03)  0.03   (0.04)  (0.02) (0.02)  (0.02)  (0.09)  (0.04)  (0.03)  (0.04)  (0.08)  (0.03)  (0.03)  (0.06)

 

Factors that can cause fluctuations in our quarterly results include the length of the exploration field season at the properties, the type of program conducted, stock option vesting, and issuance of shares. Other factors that have caused fluctuations in the quarterly results that would not be expected to re-occur include the acquisition and disposition of SunwardGold Mining Inc. (“GMI”) shares (which were not fully disposed of in fiscal 2018) and financing activities.

 

Our netloss of $12.5 million during the third quarter ended August 31, 2019 is significantly higher than the second quarter ended May 31, 2019, primarily due to mineral property expenditures. During the quarter ended August 31, 2019, mineral properties expense increased by $8.0 million when compared to the prior quarter, reflecting the increased activity at the projects as the 2019 drilling program became fully operational. The current period loss is $2.6 million higher than the third quarter ended August 31, 2018, primarily due to an increase in the size and scope of the 2019 field season resulting in an increase in mineral properties expenditures of $1.9 million and $0.4 million additional professional fees in the current period.

During the quarter ended May 31, 2019, mineral property expense increased by $1.4 million when compared to the prior quarter as we prepared for the commencement of the 2019 drill program and field season. Our loss of $4.5 million for the quarter ended May 31, 2019 is consistent with the prior quarter as the increase in the second quarter mineral property expenses were offset by higher first quarter stock-based compensation due to the fair value amortization of new option grants during the first quarter. The loss during the three - month period ended May 31, 2019 was $0.9 million higher when compared to the loss for the fourth quartercomparative three - month period ended May 31, 2018 of 2015 of $2.1$3.7 million, consists of $0.8 milliondue mostly to an increase in mineral property expenses incurred for assay costsproperties expense and engineering studies conducted in the fall as well as $0.2 million in discontinued operation costs from Sunward.stock-based compensation.

 

Our loss for the first quarter ended February 29, 2016 is comparable28, 2019 of $4.3 million was lower when compared to typical first quarter losses in that it consists mainlythe two prior quarterly periods and reflects the seasonality of the mineral property expenses relating to engineering studies completedwhich are mostly incurred during the summer and fall season. The $1.4 million increase in advance of the 2016 field program. The loss is increased slightly due to costs related to operating Sunward of $0.2 million when compared to periods when Trilogy did not own Sunward. During the second quarter of 2016, we incurred $0.5 million in mineral property expenses due to the field season starting up in the last month of the second quarter and $0.2 million in discontinued operations relating to Sunward. During the third quarter of 2016, we incurred mineral property expenses of $3.1 million as we completed our drilling program. As a result, our loss for the third quarter ended August 31, 2016 is higher compared to previous quarter losses and consistent with the spending in the third quarter of 2015. We recognized earnings for the fourth quarter of 2016 of $2.7 million due to the gain on the sale of Sunward. Adjusted for the discontinued operations, the fourth quarter periods are substantially comparable.

22 

Our loss for the first quarter ended February 28, 20172018 is primarily due to higher first quarter 2019 stock-based compensation from the higher fair value amortization of $3.0new option grants during the first quarter of 2019.

During the fourth quarter of 2018, we had a loss of $5.3 million is significantly increased compared to prior quarterly periods due to an unrealizeda loss of $6.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2017. The primary drivers for the difference were $0.9 million lower mineral properties expenses, loss on held for tradingdisposition of investments of $1.2 million. The investments are classified as held for trading and changes$0.8 million in the fair valuefourth quarter of 2017 for which the investments are recorded throughcomparative is nil in the statement of loss. Our loss for the secondfourth quarter ended May 31, 2017 of $2.42018, all offset by $0.5 million is significantly increased from the comparable period due to a significant increase is the size of our field program resulting in increased salaries benefits in the fourth quarter 2018. We incurred $3.8 million of mineral property expenses of $1.3 million. Similarly, our loss for the third quarter ended August 31, 2017 of $9.0 million is significantly increased from the comparable loss of $4.3 million in the thirdfourth quarter ended August 31, 2016 dueof 2018 compared to $4.7 million of mineral property expenses in the sizefourth quarter of 2017 as the camp closed earlier in the 2018 program (October 13, 2018) versus the 2017 field program which is more than double the 2016 field program.(October 31, 2017).

 


Liquidity and capital resources

 

At August 31, 2017,2019, we had $10.2$26.9 million in cash and cash equivalents. equivalents and working capital of $23.2 million. During the three-month period ended August 31, 2019, we received proceeds of approximately $9.9 million as a result of an exercise of 6,521,740 warrants.

The increase in cash was a result of fully receiving the $9.2 million Year 3 funding from South32, an additional $1.0 million for the regional exploration program and $9.9 million upon exercise of all warrants. These cash inflows were offset by $15.4 million in mineral properties expense, $3.3 million in cumulative general and administrative expenses, investor relations, professional fees, salaries and $2.5 million in cash savings from changes in net non-cash working capital. The increase in working capital for the period was a result of higher accounts payable and prepaid balances, offset by a higher accounts receivable balance as at August 31, 2019.

We expended $9.1$15.8 million on operating activities during the nine months ended August 31, 20172019 compared with $6.7$14.6 million for operating activities for the same period in 2016. The majority of2018. Most cash spent on operating activities during all periods was expended on mineral property expenses. Other operating expenses, consisted of cash spent on general and administrative costs, salaries and professional feesfees.

We continue to fund our cash expenditures through our working capital. As we are not currently in production, we will need to raise additional funds to support our operations and investor relations. Atadministration expenses in the future. Future sources of liquidity may include debt financing, equity financing, convertible debt, exercise of options, or other means. Our continued operations are dependent on our ability to obtain additional financing or to generate future cash flows.

All cash generated from investing activities during the nine months ended August 31, 2017,2019 were from the Company had working capital availableSouth 32 Option Agreement funding of $11.2 million. As at August 31, 2017, the Company continues to manage its cash expenditures$10.2 million (2018 - $10.4 million) and management believes that the working capital available is sufficient to meet its operational requirements for the next year. Management does expect to monetize its current investments by selling shares of GMI in the next six months to assist in meeting its operational requirements. Future financings are anticipated throughthere were no proceeds from the sale of investments equity financing, the exercise of mineral properties option, convertible debt, or other means.

(2018 - $2.3 million) as all GMI shares were full disposed during fiscal 2018. During the nine months ended August 31, 2017, we received $10.02019, $9.9 million in funding from South32 for the exploration program at the Bornite Project which is categorized as an investing activity as the funds are being utilized on the UKMP. The Company is responsible for the disbursement of these funds in accordance with the approved program and budget and accordingly has not classified the funds as restricted cash. Funds are transferred to operating accounts on a monthly basis in accordance with the approved budget and working capital needs. As at August 31, 2017, the Company held $2.7 million in a segregated bank account for spending on the approved year 1 program at the Bornite Project.

During the nine months ended August 31, 2017, wecash was generated $2.2 million in proceeds from the sale of investments. The proceeds were used for general operating activities. There was no comparable amount from investing activities in 2016 as we acquired the investments in September 2016. Subsequent to quarter-end, we have generated approximately an additional C$1.0 million in proceeds from the sale of investments.

During the nine months ended August 31, 2017, $0.1 million was used in financing activities to pay statutory employee withholding taxes on Restricted Share Units that vested. There were no comparable amounts from financing activities in 2016.(2018 - $26.9 million).

Contractual obligations

 

Contractual obligations

Contractually obligated undiscounted cash flow requirements as at August 31, 20172019 are as follows.

inIn thousands of dollars

 

Total

$

  

< 1 Year

$

  

1–2 Years

$

  

2–5 Years

$

  

Thereafter

$

  

Total

$

  

<1 Year

$

  

1–2 Years

$

  

2–5 Years

$

  

Thereafter

$

 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities  4,759   4,759   -   -   -   4,512   4,512   -   -   - 
Office lease  1,349   44   178   580   547   936   179   385   372   - 
Office and warehouse lease  125   57   68   -   - 
  6,108   4,803   178   580   547   5,573   4,748   453   372   - 

 

On February 21, 2017, the Company entered into a lease for office space effective July 1, 2017 for a period of seven years with a total commitment of $1.3 million.

23 

Off-balance sheet arrangements

 

We have no material off-balance sheet arrangements. The Company hasWe have lease commitments for office and warehouse spaces with a remaining total commitment of $1.3$1.1 million.

 

Outstanding share data

 

At October 4, 2017,8, 2019, we had 105,674,303140,003,741 common shares issued and outstanding. At October 4, 2017,8, 2019, we had outstanding 6,521,740 warrants with an exercise price of $1.60 each, 7,197,5009,295,600 stock options with a weighted-average exercise price of $0.56, 1,041,232 DSUs, 600,002 RSUs, and 20,685$1.02. We also had, 1,137,485 deferred share units (“DSUs”), 11,927 NovaGold DSUs for whichdeferred share units entitling the holder is entitled to receive one common share for every six NovaGold shares received. For additional information on NovaGold Arrangement Optionsreceived, and NovaGold DSUs, please refer to note 6 in our August 31, 2017 interim consolidated financial statements.212,501 RSUs. Upon exercise of all of the forgoingforegoing convertible securities, the Company would be required to issue aggregate of 15,363,92110,647,468 common shares.

New accounting pronouncements

 

Certain recent accounting pronouncements have been included under note 2 in our August 31, 20172019 unaudited interim consolidated financial statements

  

22

Critical accounting estimates

 

The most critical accounting estimates upon which our financial status depends are those requiring estimates of the recoverability of our capitalized mineral properties, impairment of long-lived assets, income taxes and valuation of stock-based compensation.

 

Mineral properties and development costs

 

All direct costs related to the acquisition of mineral property interests are capitalized. The acquisition of title to mineral properties is a complicated and uncertain process. We have taken steps, in accordance with industry standards, to verify the title to mineral properties in which it has an interest. Although we have made efforts to ensure that legal title to our mining assets is properly recorded, there can be no assurance that such title will be secured indefinitely.

 

Impairment of long-lived assets

 

Management assesses the possibility of impairment in the carrying value of its long-lived assets whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of the asset or asset group may not be recoverable. Significant judgments are made in assessing the possibility of impairment. Management considers several factors in considering if an indicator of impairment has occurred, including but not limited to, indications of value from external sources, significant changes in the legal, business or regulatory environment, and adverse changes in the use or physical condition of the asset. These factors are subjective and require consideration at each period end. If an indicator of impairment is determined to exist, management calculates the estimated undiscounted future net cash flows relating to the asset or asset group using estimated future prices, mineral resources, and operating, capital and reclamation costs. When the carrying value of an asset exceeds the related undiscounted cash flows, the asset is written down to its estimated fair value, which is usually determined using discounted future cash flows. Management’s estimates of mineral prices, mineral resources, foreign exchange rates, production levels and operating capital and reclamation costs are subject to risk and uncertainties that may affect the determination of the recoverability of the long-lived asset.

 

Income taxes

We must make estimates and judgments in determining the provision for income tax expense, deferred tax assets and liabilities, and liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits including interest and penalties. We are subject to income tax law in the United States and Canada. The evaluation of tax liabilities involving uncertainties in the application of complex tax regulation is based on factors such as changes in facts or circumstances, changes in tax law, new audit activity, and effectively settled issues. The evaluation of an uncertain tax position requires significant judgment, and a change in such recognition would result in an additional charge to the income tax expense and liability.

Stock-based compensation

 

Compensation expense for options granted to employees, directors and certain service providers is determined based on estimated fair values of the options at the time of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, which takes into account, as of the grant date, the fair market value of the shares, expected volatility, expected life, expected forfeiture rate, expected dividend yield and the risk-free interest rate over the expected life of the option. The use of the Black-Scholes option pricing model requires input estimation of the expected life of the option, volatility, and forfeiture rate which can have a significant impact on the valuation model, and resulting expense recorded.

 

24 

Additional informationSouth32 Option Agreement

 

Additional information regardingThe option to form the Company, including our annual report on Form 10-K,JV LLC is available on SEDARrecognized as a financial instrument atwww.sedar.com and EDGAR inception of the arrangement with an initial fair value of $nil. This option is required to be re-measured atwww.sec.govand on our website fair value atwww.trilogymetals.com. Information contained on our website is not incorporated by reference. each reporting date with any changes in fair value recorded in loss for the period.

  

25 

Item 3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

Our financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, deposits, investments, and accounts payable and accrued liabilities. The fair value of the financial instruments approximates their carrying value due to the short-term nature of their maturity. Our financial instruments initially measured at fair value and then held at amortized cost include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, deposits, and accounts payable and accrued liabilities. Our investments are held for trading and are marked-to-market at each period end with changes in fair value recorded to the statement of loss. The South32 purchase option is a derivative financial liability measured at fair value with changes in fair value recorded to the statement of loss.

23

 

(a)Currency risk

 

Currency risk is the risk of a fluctuation in financial asset and liability settlement amounts due to a change in foreign exchange rates. We operate in the United States and Canada. Our exposure to currency risk at August 31, 20172019 is limited to the Canadian dollar balances consisting of cash of CDN$2,596,000,205,000, accounts receivable of CDN$421,000, deposit amounts of CDN$116,000, investments of CDN$5,833,00062,000 and accounts payable of CDN$859,000.1,283,000. Based on a 10% change in the US-Canadian exchange rate, assuming all other variables remain constant, our net loss would change by approximately $647,000.

$76,000.

 

(b)Credit risk

 

Credit risk is the risk of an unexpected loss if a customer or third party to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations. We hold cash and cash equivalents with Canadian Chartered financial institutions. Our accounts receivable consistconsists of GSTCanadian Goods and Services Tax receivable from the Federal Government of Canada and other receivables for recoverable expenses. Our exposure to credit risk is equal to the balance of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable as recorded in the financial statements.

 

(c)Liquidity risk

 

Liquidity risk is the risk that we will encounter difficulties raising funds to meet our financial obligations as they fall due. We are in the exploration stage and do not have cash inflows from operations; therefore, we manage liquidity risk through the management of the capital structure and financial leverage. Future financingsfinancing may be obtained through debt financing, equity financing, sales of investments, convertible debt, exercise of options, or other means. Continued operations are dependent on our ability to obtain additional financing or to generate future cash flows. Our contractually obligated cash flow is disclosed under the section titled “Contractual obligations.Obligations. Please see further discussion of our liquidity under “Liquidity and capital resources”

  

(d)Interest rate risk

 

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates. We are exposed to interest rate risk with respect to interest earned on cash and cash equivalents. Based on balances as at August 31, 2017,2019, a 1% change in interest rates would result in a change in net loss of $0.1$0.2 million, assuming all other variables remain constant.

 

As we are currently in the exploration phase, none of our financial instruments are exposed to commodity price risk; however, our ability to obtain long-term financing and its economic viability could be affected by commodity price volatility.

 

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

 

Management, with the participation of our President and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act) as of August 31, 2017.2019. On the basis of this review, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that the information we are required to disclose in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the SEC and to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our President and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

26 

There have not been any changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) promulgated by the SEC under the Exchange Act) during the Company’s most recently completed fiscal quarter that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Any system of internal control over financial reporting, no matter how well designed, has inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.

 

2724 

 

 

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.Item 1.Legal Proceedings

 

From time to time, we are a party to routine litigation and proceedings that are considered part of the ordinary course of its business. We are not aware of any material current, pending, or threatened litigation.

 

Item 1A. Item 1A.Risk Factors

 

Trilogy and its future business, operations and financial condition are subject to various risks and uncertainties due to the nature of its business and the present stage of exploration of its mineral properties. Certain of these risks and uncertainties are under the heading “Risk Factors” under Trilogy’s Form 10-K dated February 2, 2017,11, 2019, which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.comand EDGAR atwww.sec.gov and on our website at www.trilogymetals.com.www.trilogymetals.com.

 

Item 2.Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

None

 

Item 3.Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

 

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

 

These disclosures are not applicable to us.

 

Item 5.Other Information.

 

None.

 

Item 6. Item 6.ExhibitsExhibits

 

Exhibits

 

See Exhibit Index.

 

2825 

 

 

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 thereunto duly authorized.

 

Date: October 5, 20179, 2019TRILOGY METALS INC. 
  
 
 By:/s/ Rick Van NieuwenhuyseJames Gowans 
  Rick Van NieuwenhuyseJames Gowans 
  President and Chief Executive Officer 

 By:/s/ Elaine M. Sanders 
  Elaine M. Sanders 
  Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 

  

2926 

 

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit No. Description
   

3.1 Certificate of Incorporation, of NovaCopper Inc., dated April 27, 2011 (incorporated by reference Exhibit 99.2 to the Registration Statement on Form 40-F as filed on March 1, 2012, File No. 001-35447)

3.2 
3.2Articles of NovaCopperTrilogy Metals Inc., effective April 27, 2011, as altered March 20, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.3 to Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement on Form 40-F as filed on April 19, 2012, File No. 001-35447)

3.3 
3.3Notice of Articles and Certificate of Change of Name, dated September 1, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Form 8-K dated September 8, 2016)

   
31.1 Certification of the Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)
   
31.2 Certification of the Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)
   
32.1 Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350
   
32.2 Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350
   
101 Interactive Data Files
   
101.INS XBRL Instance Document
   
101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
   
101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
   
101.DEFXBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
   
101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
   
101.DEFXBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

  

3027