Table Of Contents

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, DC 20549

 

FORM10-Q

 

(Mark One)

 

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the quarterly period ended

March 31,June 30, 2016

 

Transition report under section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act

 

For the transition period from

to

 

Commission File Number

000-31380

 

 

APPLIED MINERALS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware

82-0096527

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

(I. R. S. Employer Identification No.)

110 Greene Street – Suite 1101, New York, NY

10012

(Address of principal executive offices)

(Zip Code)

(212) 226-4265

(Issuer’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

 

Former name, former address, and former fiscal year, if changed since last report:

 

Indicate by check 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.

YES

NO

 

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

 

Large Accelerated Filer

Accelerated Filer

Non-accelerated Filer

Smaller Reporting Company

 

Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

YES

NO

 

The number of shares of the registrant’s common stock, $0.001 par value per share, outstanding as of May 13,August 15, 2016 was 97,392,709.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE: None.108,376,049.

 

 
 

Table Of Contents
 

  

APPLIEDMINERALS, INC.

(An Exploration Stage Company)

 

FIRSTSECOND QUARTER 2016 REPORT ON FORM 10-Q

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Page(s)

Item 1.

Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31,June 30, 2016 (unaudited) and December 31, 2015

13

 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (unaudited) for the Three and Six Months Ended March 31,June 30, 2016 and 2015

24

 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Deficit (unaudited) for the ThreeSix Months Ended March 31,June 30, 2016

35

 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited) for the ThreeSix Months Ended March 31,June 30, 2016 and 2015

46

 

Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

6-158

 

Item 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

16-2117

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

2122

 

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

2122

 

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

2223

 

Item 1A

Risk Factors

2223

 

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

2223

 

Item 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

2223

 

Item 4.

Mine Safety Disclosures

2223

 

Item 5.

Other Information

2223

 

Item 6.

Exhibits

2324

 

Signatures

25

 

 
2

Table Of Contents
 

  

PART I.PARTFINANCI. FINANCIALIAL INFORMATION

 

APPLIED MINERALS, INC.

(An Exploration Stage Mining Company)

CONDENSEDCONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

 

March 31,

  

December 31,

 
 

2016

  

2015

  

June 30,

2016

  

December 31,

2015

 
 

(Unaudited)

      

(Unaudited)

     

ASSETS

                

Current Assets

                

Cash and cash equivalents

 $900,577  $1,803,131  $2,174,748  $1,803,131 

Accounts receivable

  264,457   176,205   487,893   176,205 

Deposits and prepaid expenses

  251,095   322,922   170,914   322,922 

Other current receivables

  - 0 -   94,647   - 0 -   94,647 

Total Current Assets

  1,416,129   2,396,905   2,833,555   2,396,905 
                

Property and Equipment, net

  4,937,849   5,206,825   4,653,188   5,206,825 
                

Other Assets

                

Deposits

  269,272   269,202   269,342   269,202 

Assets Held for Sale

  380,999   445,180   1,000   445,180 

Total Other Assets

  650,271   714,382   270,342   714,382 
                

TOTAL ASSETS

 $7,004,249  $8,318,112  $7,757,085  $8,318,112 
                

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

        

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT

        

Current Liabilities

                

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

 $1,649,528  $1,623,152 

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (excluding accrued PIK Note interest)

 $526,525  $742,745 

Accrued PIK Note interest

  919,913   880,407 

Current portion of notes payable

  128,168   210,429   49,040   210,429 

Total Current Liabilities

  1,777,696   1,833,581   1,495,478   1,833,581 
                

Long-Term Liabilities

                

Long-term portion of notes payable

  28,135   33,688   22,535   33,688 

PIK Notes payable, net of $17,084,480 and $17,572,885 debt discount, respectively

  18,180,058   17,051,636 

PIK Notes payable, net of $16,632,757 and $17,572,885 debt discount, respectively

  19,727,804   17,051,636 

PIK Note derivative

  3,104,942   5,138,857   3,856,834   5,138,857 

Total Long-Term Liabilities

  21,313,135   22,224,181   23,607,173   22,224,181 
                

Total Liabilities

  23,090,831   24,057,762   25,102,651   24,057,762 
                

Commitments andContingencies (Note 10)

                
                

Stockholders’ (Deficit)

        

Stockholders’ Deficit

        
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding                

Common stock, $0.001 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized, 97,286,772 and 97,144,736 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively

  97,287   97,145 

Common stock, $0.001 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized, 108,376,049 and 97,144,736 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively

  108,376   97,145 

Additional paid-in capital

  66,296,699   66,106,631   68,221,368   66,106,631 

Accumulated deficit prior to the exploration stage

  (20,009,496)  (20,009,496)  (20,009,496)  (20,009,496)

Accumulated deficit during the exploration stage

  (62,471,072)  (61,933,930)  (65,665,814)  (61,933,930)

Total Stockholders’ (Deficit)

  (16,086,582)  (15,739,650)

Total Stockholders’ Deficit

  (17,345,566)  (15,739,650)
                

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ (DEFICIT)

 $7,004,249  $8,318,112 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT

 $7,757,085  $8,318,112 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statementsstatements.

 

 
13

Table Of Contents
 

 

APPLIEDMINERALS, INC.

(An Exploration Stage Mining Company)

CONDENSEDCONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited)

 

 

For the Three Months Ended

 
 

March 31,

  

For the three months ended

June 30,

  

For the six months ended

June 30,

 
 

2016

  

2015

  

2016

  

2015

  

2016

  

2015

 
                        

REVENUES

 $1,001,628  $162,747  $1,112,467  $65,848  $2,114,095  $228,595 
                        

OPERATING EXPENSES:

                        

Production costs

  4,549   2,235   220,970   3,934   476,670   6,170 

Exploration costs

  778,879   1,327,281   584,150   1,291,197   1,111,878   2,618,478 

General and administrative

  1,173,826   1,182,309   1,066,927   1,247,466   2,250,136   2,429,775 

Depreciation expense

  336,087   326,222   338,333   326,684   674,420   652,905 

Total Operating Expenses

  2,293,341   2,838,047   2,210,380   2,869,281   4,513,104   5,707,328 
                        

Operating Loss

  (1,291,713)  (2,675,300)  (1,097,913)  (2,803,433)  (2,399,009)  (5,478,733)
                        

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):

                        

Interest expense, net, including amortization of deferred financing cost and debt discount

  (1,372,420)  (1,028,627)  (1,356,841)  (1,092,595)  (2,729,261)  (2,121,222)

Interest Income

  585   -- 

Gain on disposal of property

  92,491   -- 

(Loss) gain on revaluation of PIK Note derivative

  2,033,915   (92,741)

Other expense

  --   (397,797)

Gain (loss) on revaluation of PIK Note derivative

  (742,509)  1,313,110   1,291,406   1,220,369 

Other income (expense)

  11,904   (145,958)  104,980   (543,755)

Total Other Income (Expense)

  754,571   (1,519,165)  (2,087,446)  74,557   (1,332,875)  (1,444,608)
                        

Net loss

 $(537,142) $(4,194,465)

Net Loss

 $(3,185,359) $(2,728,876) $(3,731,884) $(6,923,341)
                        

Net Loss Per Share (Basic and Diluted)

 $(0.01) $(0.04) $(0.03) $(0.03) $(0.04) $(0.07)
                        

Weighted Average Shares Outstanding (Basic and Diluted)

  97,243,610   95,107,112   97,889,350   95,653,519   97,566,480   95,381,825 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statementsstatements.

 

 
24

Table Of Contents
 

 

APPLIEDMINERALS, INC.

(An Exploration Stage Mining Company)

CONDENSEDCONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT

(Unaudited)

 

             

Accumulated

  

Accumulated

     
 

Common Stock

  

Deficit

  

Deficit

  

Total

 
         

Additional

  

Prior to

  

During

  

Stock-

 
         

Paid-In

  

Exploration

  

Exploration

  

holder's

  

Common Stock

  

Accumulated

Deficit

  

Accumulated

Deficit

  

Total

 
 

Shares

  

Amount

  

Capital

  

Stage

  

Stage

  

Deficit

  

Shares

  

Amount

  

Additional

Paid-In

Capital

  

Prior to

Exploration

Stage

  

During

Exploration

Stage

  

Stock-

holder's

Deficit

 
                                                

Balance, December 31, 2015

  97,144,736  $97,145  $66,106,631  $(20,009,496) $(61,933,930) $(15,739,650)  97,144,736  $97,145  $66,106,631  $(20,009,496) $(61,933,930) $(15,739,650)
                                                

Shares issued for directors fees and other services

  142,036   142   63,087   --   --   63,229   178,980   179   94,164   - 0 -   - 0 -   94,343 
                                                

Shares issued to employees for compensation

  118,994   119   26,461   - 0 -   - 0 -   26,580 
                        

Shares issued in private placement

  10,933,339   10,933   1,629,067   - 0 -   - 0 -   1,640,000 
                        

Stock-based compensation expense for consultants and directors

  --   --   126,981   --   --   126,981   - 0 -   - 0 -   365,045   - 0 -   - 0 -   365,045 
                                                

Net Loss

  --   --   --   --   (537,142)  (537,142)

Net loss

  - 0 -   - 0 -   - 0 -   - 0 -   (3,731,884)  (3,731,884)
                                                

Balance, March 31, 2016

  97,286,772  $97,287  $66,296,699  $(20,009,496) $(62,471,072) $(16,086,582)

Balance, June 30, 2016

  108,376,049  $108,376  $68,221,368  $(20,009,496) $(65,665,814) $(17,345,566)

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statementsstatements.

 

 
35

Table Of Contents
 

 

APPLIEDMINERALS, INC.

(An Exploration Stage Mining Company)

CONDENSEDCONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

 

 

For the Three Months Ended

 
 

March 31,

  

For the Six Months Ended

June 30,

 
 

2016

  

2015

  

2016

  

2015

 
                

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

                

Net loss

 $(537,142) $(4,194,465) $(3,731,884) $(6,923,341)

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operations

                

Depreciation

  336,087   326,222   674,420   652,905 

Amortization of discount - PIK Notes

  488,403   231,404   949,513   507,116 

Amortization of deferred financing costs

  1,875   1,875   3,750   3,750 

Issuance of PIK Notes in payment of interest

  638,142   578,813   1,732,289   578,813 

Stock issued for director fees and other services

  63,229   117,873   94,343   215,961 

Stock-based compensation expense for consultants and directors

  126,981   99,938   365,045   207,598 

(Gain) loss on revaluation of PIK Note derivative

  (2,033,915)  92,741 

Stock issued for employee compensation

  26,580   - 0 - 

Shares issued for liquidated damages

  - 0 -   541,011 

Gain on revaluation of PIK Note derivative

  (1,291,406)  (1,220,369)

Gain on sale of property

  (92,491)  --   (108,764)  - 0 - 

Change in operating assets and liabilities:

                

(Increase) Decrease in:

        

(Increase) decrease in:

        

Accounts receivable

  (88,251)  (31,439)  (311,688)  88,620 

Other current receivables

  94,647   --   94,647   - 0 - 

Deposits and prepaids

  71,758   37,079 

Increase (Decrease) in:

        

Deposits and prepaid expenses

  151,868   133,949 

Increase (decrease) in:

        

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

  26,376   (116,856)  (176,715)  482,812 

Net cash used in operating activities

  (904,301)  (2,856,815)  (1,528,002)  (4,731,175)
                

Cash Flows From Investing Activities:

                

Sale of property

  156,672   --   552,944   - 0 - 

Purchases of property and equipment

  (67,111)  --   (120,783)  (17,995)

Net cashprovided by investing activities

  89,561   -- 

Net cashprovided by (used in) investing activities

  432,161   (17,995)
                

Cash Flows From Financing Activities:

                

Payments on notes payable

  (87,814)  (113,558)  (172,542)  (203,440)

Net cash used in financing activities

  (87,814)  (113,558)

Proceeds from sale of common stock

  1,640,000   - 0 - 

Net cashprovided by (used in) in financing activities

  1,467,458   (203,440)
                

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

  (902,554)  (2,970,373)  371,617   (4,952,610)
                

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

  1,803,131   10,701,666   1,803,131   10,701,666 
                

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

 $900,577  $7,731,293  $2,174,748  $5,749,056 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statementsstatements.

 

 
46

Table Of Contents
 

 

APPLIED MINERALS, INC.

(An Exploration Stage Mining Company)

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

 

 

For the Three Months Ended

 
 

March 31,

  

For the Six Months Ended

June 30,

 
 

2016

  

2015

  

2016

  

2015

 
                

Cash Paid For:

                

Interest

 $1,296  $4,198  $4,204  $5,974 

Income Taxes

  --   --  $- 0 -  $- 0 - 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statementsstatements.

 

 
57

Table Of Contents
 

 

APPLIEDMINERALS, INC.

(An Exploration Stage Mining Company)

NotesNotes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

NOTE 1 – BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited, condensed, consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments necessary to present fairly the financial position of Applied Minerals, Inc. ("Applied Minerals" or "the Company" or "we") and its results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods presented. Such financial statements have been condensed in accordance with the applicable regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and, therefore, do not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company's audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2015, included in the Company's Annual Report filed on Form 10-K for such year. The results of operations for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2016 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the entire year.

 

NOTE 2 – ORGANIZATION AND DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

 

Applied Minerals is the owner of the Dragon Mine located in the Tintic Mining District of the State of Utah from where it produces halloysite clay and iron oxide. The Company is currently mining and selling its DRAGONITETM and AMIRONTM products and is also in various phases of commercial scale trials with several organizations in various markets with respect to uses of its products.

 

Applied Minerals is a publicly traded company incorporated in the state of Delaware. The common stock trades on the OTC Bulletin Board under the symbol AMNL.

NOTE 3 – LIQUIDITY

 

The Company has a history of recurring losses from operations and use of cash in operating activities. For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2016, the Company's net loss was $537,142$3,731,884 and cash used in operating activities was $904,301. In addition, at March 31,$1,528,002. At June 30, 2016, the Company had a working capital deficiency of $361,567,$1,338,077, which includes $1,113,727$919,913 of accrued PIK Note interest, which the Company expects to pay in-kind and $148,851$167,841 of payables for which the Company believes it has a statute of limitations defense. Furthermore,In addition, during the six months ended June 30, 2016, the Company last obtained financing in November 2014 but cannot provide any assurance that it will be ablecommenced generating revenue under a take-or-pay supply agreement for AMIRON iron oxide and reduced exploration costs related to raise additional financing if needed. Collectively, these factors raise substantial doubt aboutactivities at the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.

Dragon mine. Based on the Company’s currentCompany's cash balance at June 30, 2016 and its cash usage expectations, for 2016, it believes it will have sufficient liquidity to fund its operations for at least the next 12 months only if it successfully accelerates the fulfillment of the aforementioned take-or-pay agreement to December 2016 on acceptable economic terms. However, the Company can provide no assurances that it will be able to negotiate an agreement to accelerate the fulfillment of the agreement on acceptable economic terms. These financial statements do not include any adjustments to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should the Company not be able to continue as a going concern.months.

 

On March 23,June 24, 2016, the Company entered into an agreementraised $1.64 million through the private placement of 10,933,333 units at $0.15 per unit. Attached to selleach unit sold was one share of common stock and a five-year warrant to purchase 0.3 shares of the fourth property for gross proceedsCompany’s common stock. As a result of $418,000. Thethe sale, closed on April 21, 2016 and the net proceeds to the Company totaled approximately $380,000, netissued 10,933,333 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 3,280,000 shares of common stock at $0.25 per share. The warrants have a 10% buyer’s premium paid to the auction firm, J.P. King.term of five years and do not contain a provision that allows for a cashless exercise.

NOTE 4–4 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Exploration-Stage Company

From 1997 through 2008, the Company’s sole source of revenue and income was derived from its contract mining business through which it provided shaft sinking, underground mine development and mine labor services. At December 31, 2008, the Company discontinued its contract mining efforts due to economic conditions and the desire to concentrate its efforts on the commercialization of the halloysite clay deposit at the Dragon Mine.Effective January 1, 2009, the Company was, and still is, classified as an exploration company as the existence of proven or probable reserves have not been demonstrated and no significant revenue has been earned from the mine. Under the SEC’s Industry Guide 7, a mining company is considered an exploration stage company until it has declared mineral reserves determined in accordance with the guide and staff interpretations thereof.

 

Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Applied Minerals, Inc. and its inactive subsidiary in northern Idaho.

6

Table Of Contents

 

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. In these condensed consolidated financial statements, the PIK Note derivative liability, stock compensation and impairment of long-lived assets involve extensive reliance on management’s estimates. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include all highly liquid investments with a term of three months or less. The Company minimizes its credit risk by investing its cash and cash equivalents, which sometimes exceeds FDIC limits, with major financial institutions located in the United States with a high credit rating.

8

Table Of Contents

 

Receivables

Trade receivables are reported at outstanding principal amounts, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. Management evaluates the collectability of receivable account balances to determine the allowance, if any. Management considers the other party’s credit risk and financial condition, as well as current and projected economic and market conditions, in determining the amount of the allowance. Receivable balances are written off when management determines that the balance is uncollectable. No allowance was required at March 31,June 30, 2016 and 2015.

 

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:

 

Estimated

 
 

Useful Life

(years)

  

Estimated

Useful Life

(in years)

 

Building and Building Improvements

  540   540 

Mining equipment

  27   27 

Office and shop furniture and equipment

  37   37 

Vehicles

   5     5  

 

Depreciation expense for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2016 and 2015 totaled $336,087$338,333 and $326,222,$326,684, respectively. Depreciation expense for the six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 totaled $674,420 and $652,905, respectively. The Company currently does not capitalize any amounts to its mineral resources and therefore does not have any depletion expense.

 

Fair Value

ASC Topic 820,Fair Value Measurement and Disclosures, defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. This topic also establishes a fair value hierarchy, which requires classification based on observable and unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The fair value hierarchy distinguishes between assumptions based on market data (observable inputs) and an entity’s own assumptions (unobservable inputs). The hierarchy consists of three levels:

 

Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities;

 

Level 2 – Inputs other than level one inputs that are either directly or indirectly observable; and

 

Level 3 – Unobservable inputs developed using estimates and assumptions, which are developed by the reporting entity and reflect those assumptions that a market participant would use.

 

Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized as follows:

 

 

Fair value measurement using inputs

  

Carrying amount

  

Fair value measurement using inputs

  

Carrying amount

 
 

Level 1

  

Level 2

  

Level 3

  

March 31,

2016

  

December 31,

2015

  

Level 1

  

Level 2

  

Level 3

  

June 30, 2016

  

December 31, 2015

 
                                        

Financial instruments:

                                        

Series 2023 PIK Note Derivative

 $-0-  $-0-  $197,073  $197,073  $262,764  $-0-  $-0-  $230,329  $230,329  $262,764 

Series A PIK Note Derivative

 $-0-  $-0-  $2,907,869  $2,907,869  $4,876,093  $-0-  $-0-  $3,626,505  $3,626,505  $4,876,093 

 

The following table summarizes the activity for financial instruments at fair value using Level 3 inputs:

 

Balance at December 31, 2015

 $5,138,857 

Net unrealized gain included in operations

  (2,033,915)
     

Balance at March 31, 2016

 $3,104,942 

Balance at December 31, 2015

 $5,138,857 

Issuance of additional PIK Notes

  9,383 

Net unrealized gains included in net (loss)

  (1,291,406)
     

Balance at June 30, 2016

 $3,856,834 

 

The recorded value of certain financial assets and liabilities, which consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, other current assets, and accounts payable and accrued expenses approximates the fair value at March 31,June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 based upon the short-term nature of the assets and liabilities. Based on borrowing rates currently available to the Company for loans with similar terms, and the remaining short-term period outstanding, the carrying value of notes payable other than PIK Notes approximates fair value. Estimated fair valuevalues of the PIK Notes Payable approximate $22,769,784$23,463,323 and $21,789,259, respectively, at March 31,June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.2015 (based on Level 2 inputs).

 
79

Table Of Contents
 

 

For the Company's PIK Note derivative liabilities, Level 3 fair value hierarchy was estimated using a Monte Carlo Model using the following assumptions:

 

Series 2023 PIK Note derivative liability

 

Fair Value Measurements

  Fair Value Measurements 
 

Using Inputs

  

Using Inputs

 
 

March 31, 2016

  

December 31, 2015

  

June 30, 2016

  

December 31, 2015

 
                

Market price and estimated fair value of stock

 $0.18  $0.28  $0.18  $0.28 

Exercise price

 $1.36  $1.36  $1.28  $1.36 

Term (years)

  7.33   7.58   7.08   7.58 

Dividend yield

 $-0-  $-0-  $-0-  $-0- 

Expected volatility

  79.7%  72.9%  86.0%  72.9%

Risk-free interest rate

  1.54%  2.12%  1.30%  2.12%

 

 

Series A PIK Note derivative liability

 

Fair Value Measurements

 
  

Using Inputs

 
  

June 30, 2016

  

December 31, 2015

 
         

Market price and estimated fair value of stock

 $0.18  $0.28 

Exercise price

 $0.83  $0.92 

Term (years)

  7.08   7.58 

Dividend yield

 $-0-  $-0- 

Expected volatility

  86.0%  72.9%

Risk-free interest rate

  1.30%  2.12%

 

Series A PIK Note derivative liability

 

Fair Value Measurements

 
  

Using Inputs

 
  

March 31, 2016

  

December 31, 2015

 
         

Market price and estimated fair value of stock

 $0.18  $0.28 

Exercise price

 $0.92  $0.92 

Term (years)

  7.33   7.58 

Dividend yield

 $-0-  $-0- 

Expected volatility

  79.7%  72.9%

Risk-free interest rate

  1.54%  2.12%

 

Impairment of Long-lived Assets

The Company periodically reviews the carrying amounts of long-lived assets to determine whether current events or circumstances warrant adjustment to such carrying amounts. Long-lived assets are tested for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that its carrying amount may not be recoverable. When such events occur, the Company compares the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset to its carrying amount.

 

If this comparison indicates impairment, the amount of the impairment is typically calculated using discounted expected future cash flows where observable fair values are not readily determinable. Considerable management judgment is necessary to estimate the fair value of assets. Assets to be disposed of are carried at the lower of their financial statement carrying amount or fair value, less cost to sell.

 

Revenue Recognition

Revenue includes sales of halloysite clay and iron oxide, and is recognized when title passes to the buyer and when collectability is reasonably assured. Title passes to the buyer based on terms of the sales contract. Product pricing is determined based on related contractual arrangements with the Company’s customers.

 

Mining Exploration and Development Costs

Land and mining property are carried at cost. The Company expenses prospecting and mining exploration costs. At the point when a property is determined to have proven and probable reserves, subsequent development costs will be capitalized and will be charged to operations using the units-of-production method over proven and probable reserves. Upon abandonment or sale of a mineral property, all capitalized costs relating to the specific property are written off in the period abandoned or sold and a gain or loss is recognized.

 

Income taxes

The Company uses an asset and liability approach which results in the recognition of deferred tax liabilities and assets for the expected future tax consequences or benefits of temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and the tax basis of assets and liabilities, as well as operating loss and tax credit carry forwards, using enacted tax rates in effect in the years in which the differences are expected to reverse. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of its deferred tax assets will not be realized. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. A valuation allowance has beenis provided for the portion of the Company’s net deferred tax assets for which it is more likely than not that they will not be realized.

 

The Company is subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of certain state jurisdictions. The Company’s practice is to recognize interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.

 

The Company follows the provision of ASC Topic 740-10, “Income Taxes”, relating to recognition thresholds and measurement attributes for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken, or expected to be taken, in a tax return. It also provides guidance on de-recognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods and requires increased disclosures. This guidance provides that the tax effects from an uncertain tax position can be recognized in our financial statements, only if the position is more likely than not of being sustained on audit, based on the technical merits of the position. As of March 31,June 30, 2016, no amounts are included in the financial statements for unrecognized tax benefits.

 

 
810

Table Of Contents
 

  

Stock Options and Warrants

The Company follows ASC 718 (Stock Compensation) and 505-50 (Equity-Based Payments to Non-employees), which provide guidance in accounting for share-based awards exchanged for services rendered and requires companies to expense the estimated fair value of these awards over the requisite service period.

 

Per share data

Loss per share for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, is calculated based on 97,243,61097,889,350 and 95,107,11295,653,519 weighted average outstanding shares of common stock. Loss per share for the six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, is calculated based on 97,556,480 and 95,381,825 weighted average outstanding shares of common stock.

 

At March 31,June 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, the Company had outstanding options and warrants to purchase 19,380,01224,276,950 and 18,535,58118,929,402 shares of Company common stock, and had notes payable which were convertible into 33,639,46638,676,225 and 30,086,39031,590,709 shares, respectively, of the Company common stock, none of which were included in the diluted computation as their effect would be anti-dilutive.

 

Environmental Matters

Expenditures for ongoing compliance with environmental regulations that relate to current operations are expensed or capitalized as appropriate. Expenditures resulting from the remediation of existing conditions caused by past operations that do not contribute to future revenue generations are expensed. Liabilities are recognized when environmental assessments indicate that remediation efforts are probable and the costs can be reasonably estimated.

 

Estimates of such liabilities are based upon currently available facts, existing technology and presently enacted laws and regulations taking into consideration the likely effects of inflation and other societal and economic factors, and include estimates of associated legal costs. These amounts also reflect prior experience in remediating contaminated sites, other companies’ clean-up experience and data released by The Environmental Protection Agency or other organizations. Such estimates are by their nature imprecise and can be expected to be revised over time because of changes in government regulations, operations, technology and inflation.  Recoveries are evaluated separately from the liability and, when recovery is assured, the Company records and reports an asset separately from the associated liability.

 

Based upon management’s current assessment of its environmental responsibilities, it does not believe that any reclamation or remediation liability exists at March 31,June 30, 2016.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014,March 2016, the FASB issued new accounting guidance, Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers,2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting, that changes the accounting for certain aspects of share-based payments to employees. The guidance requires the recognition in the income statement of the income tax effects of vested or settled awards. The guidance also allows for the employer to repurchase more of an employee’s shares for tax withholding purposes and not classify the award as a liability that requires valuation on revenue recognition. The new standard providesa mark-to-market basis. In addition, the guidance allows for a single five-step modelpolicy election to be applied to all revenue contracts with customersaccount for forfeitures as well as requires additional financial statement disclosures that will enable users to understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows relating to customer contracts. Companies havethey occur rather than on an option to use either a retrospective approach or cumulative effect adjustment approach to implement the standard. Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09estimated basis. The guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15,in 2017 including interim periods within that reporting period. Earlywith early adoption is permitted, but not before the original effective date of the standard.permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact ofeffect that the new guidance will have on our consolidatedits financial statements.statement and related disclosures.

9

Table Of Contents

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02, Leases, which is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2018 with early adoption permitted. Under Accounting Standards Update 2016-02, lessees will be required to recognize for all leases at the commencement date a lease liability, which is a lessee's obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease measured on a discounted basis, and a right-to-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee's right to use or control the use of a specified asset for the lease term. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that the new guidance will have on its financial statements and related disclosures.

 

In November 2015, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2015-17, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. Accounting Standards Update 2015-17 simplifies current guidance and requires companies to classify all deferred tax assets and liabilities as noncurrent on the balance sheet. Accounting Standards Update 2015-17 can be applied either prospectively or retrospectively and is effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company does not anticipate the new guidance will have a material effect on its financial statements and related disclosures.

In April 2015, the FASB issued an ASU 2015-03, which requires that debt issuance costs be presented in the balance sheet as a direct reduction to the carrying amount of the associated debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. Currently debt issuance costs are recognized as an asset. The ASU is effective for the Company in the first quarter of 2017 and is required to be applied retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect the adoption of this standard to have a material impact on its financial statements and related disclosures.

In May 2014, the FASB issued new accounting guidance, Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, on revenue recognition. The new standard provides for a single five-step model to be applied to all revenue contracts with customers as well as requires additional financial statement disclosures that will enable users to understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows relating to customer contracts. Companies have an option to use either a retrospective approach or cumulative effect adjustment approach to implement the standard. Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period. Early adoption is permitted for fiscal years and interim periods within those years beginning after December 15, 2016, the original effective date of the standard. The Company does not anticipate the new guidance will have a material effect on its financial statements and related disclosures.

  

ComparativeInformation Information

We have reclassified certain prior year information to conform with the current year's presentation.

 

NOTE 5 - INCOME TAX

 

Income tax provisions or benefits for interim periods are computed based on the Company's estimated annual effective tax rate. Based on the Company's historical losses and its expectation of the continuation of losses for the foreseeable future, the Company has determined that it is more likely than not that deferred tax assets will not be realized and, accordingly, has provided a full valuation allowance as of March 31,June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

11

Table Of Contents

  

NOTE 6 - NOTES PAYABLE

 

Notes payable at March 31,June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 consist of the following:

 

 

 

March 31, 2016

  

December 31, 2015

  

June 30,

2016

  

December 31,

2015

 
                

Note payable for mining equipment, payable $950 monthly, including interest (a)

 $942  $3,714  $- 0 -  $3,714 

Note payable for equipment, payable $1,339 monthly, including interest (b)

  38,753   42,235   35,226   42,235 

Note payable for mine site vehicle, payable $628 monthly (c)

  11,311   13,196   9,426   13,196 

Note payable to an insurance company, payable $9,055 monthly, including interest (d)

  34,406   60,953   8,804   60,953 

Note payable to an insurance company, payable $18,609 monthly, including interest (e)

  70,891   124,019   18,119   124,019 
  156,303   244,117   71,575   244,117 

Less: Current Portion

  (128,168)  (210,429)  (49,040)  (210,429)

Notes Payable, Long-Term Portion

 $28,135  $33,688  $22,535  $33,688 

 

 

(a)

On April 17, 2012, the Company purchased mining equipment for $40,565 by issuing a note with an effective interest rate of 11.279%. The note is collateralized by the mining equipment with payments of $950 for 48 months, which started on May 1, 2012.

 

(b)

On October 31, 2014, the Company purchased mining equipment for $65,120 by paying a deposit and issuing a note in the amount of $57,900 with an interest rate of 5.2%. The note is collateralized by the mining equipment with payments of $1,339 for 48 months, which started on November 30, 2014.

 

(c)

On September 20, 2012, the Company purchased a vehicle for the mine site for $37,701 by issuing a non-interest bearing note. The note is collateralized by the vehicle with payments of $628 for 60 months, which started on October 20, 2012.

 

(d)

The Company signed a note payable with an insurance company dated October 21, 2015 for liability insurance, due in monthly installments, including interest at 11.845%.

 

(e)

The Company signed a note payable with an insurance company dated October 17, 2015 for liability insurance, due in monthly installments, including interest at 3.000%.

 

The following is a schedule of the principal maturities on these notes as of March 31,June 30, 2016:

 

April 2016 - March 2017

 $128,168 

April 2017 - March 2018

  20,224 

April 2018 - March 2019

  7,911 

Total Notes Payable

 $156,304 

July 2016 - June 2017

 $49,040 

July 2017 - June 2018

  18,554 

July 2018 - June 2019

  3,981 

Total Notes Payable

 $71,575 

 

During the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2016, the Company's interest payment related to these notes totaled $2,909 and $4,204, respectively. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2015, the Company's interest payments related to these notes totaled $1,296$1,776 and $4,178,$5,974, respectively.

10

Table Of Contents

 

NOTE 7 – CONVERTIBLE DEBT (PIK NOTES)

 

The Company raised $23 million of financing through the issuance of two series of Paid-In-Kind (“PIK”)-Election Convertible Notes in 2013 and 2014, with key terms highlighted in the table below:

 

Key Terms

 

Series 2023 Notes

  

Series A Notes

 

Inception Date

  08/05/2013   11/03/2014 

Cash Received

  $10,500,000   $12,500,000 

Principal (Initial Liability)

  $10,500,000   $19,848,486 

Maturity (Term)

 

10 years, but convertible after 1 year based on the market price of the Company’s stock

  

4 years, but may range between 2 years to the full maturity of the Series 2023 Notes, depending on whether a Specified Event occurs and/or an Extension Option is elected (see below for further details)

 

Exercise Price

 

$1.40 at inception, adjusted downward based on anti-dilution provisions/down-round protection

  

$0.92 at inception, adjusted downward based on anti-dilution provisions/down-round protection; also may be reduced by $0.10 based if Extension Option is elected (see below)

 

Stated Interest

 

10% per annum, due semiannually

  

10% per annum, due semiannually, may be reduced to 1% if Specified Event (see below) occurs

 

Derivative Liability

 

$2,055,000 established at inception due to existence of anti-dilution provisions; revalued every quarter using Monte Carlo model

  

$9,212,285 established at inception due to existence of anti-dilution provisions; revalued every quarter using Monte Carlo model

 

 

 

12

Table Of Contents

As of March 31,June 30, 2016, the liability components of the PIK Notes on the Company’s balance sheet are listed in the following table:

 

 

Series 2023 Notes

  

Series A Notes

  

Total

  

Series 2023 Notes

  

Series A Notes

  

Total

 

PIK Note Payable, Gross

 $13,400,958  $21,882,955  $35,283,913  $13,400,958  $22,977,103  $36,378,061 

Less: Discount

  (1,828,368)  (15,256,112)  (17,084,480)  (1,791,109)  (14,841,648)  (16,632,757)
Less: Deferred Financing Cost  (7,359  (12,016  (19,375)  (6,650)  (10,850)  (17,500)

PIK Note Payable, Net

 $11,565,231  $6,614,827  $18,180,058  $11,603,199  $8,124,605  $19,727,804 
                        

PIK Note Derivative Liability

 $197,073  $2,907,869  $3,104,942  $230,329  $3,626,505  $3,856,834 

 

As of December 31, 2015, the liability components of the PIK Notes on the Company’s balance sheet are listed in the following table:

 

  

Series 2023 Notes

  

Series A Notes

  

Total

 

PIK Note Payable, Gross

 $12,762,816  $21,882,955  $34,645,771 

Less: Discount

  (1,854,894)  (15,717,991)  (17,572,885)

Less: Deferred Financing Cost

  (7,828)  (13,422)  (21,250)

PIK Note Payable, Net

 $10,900,094  $6,151,542  $17,051,636 
             

PIK Note Derivative Liability

 $262,764  $4,876,093  $5,138,857 

 

Series A Notes

On November 3, 2014 (“Issue Date”), the Company issued, in a private placement pursuant to investment agreements, $19,848,486 principal amount of 10% PIK-Election Convertible Notes due 2018 ("Series A Notes") in exchange for $12,500,000 in cash and the cancellation of previously-issued warrants held by one investor.

 

Below are key terms of the Series A Notes:

 

 

Maturity- November 3, 2018, provided that the Stated Maturity Date may be extended to November 3, 2019 at the option of the Company (the “Extension Option”) if (i) the Company has delivered written notice of its exercise of the Extension Option to the Holder not more than ninety (90) nor less than thirty (30) days prior to November 3, 2018 and (ii) the Company has delivered a certificate, dated as of November 3, 2018, certifying that no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing; provided, further that the Stated Maturity Date shall be extended to the maturity date of the Series 2023 Notes or any Replacement Financing, as applicable, upon the occurrence of a Specified Event (“Specified Extension”).

 

Exercise Price- initially $0.92 per share and will be (i) adjusted from time to time pursuant anti-dilution provisions and (ii) reduced by $0.10 per share if the Company elects to exercise its Extension Option.

 

Stated Interest: 10% payable semiannually in arrears,provided that the interest rate shall be reduced to 1% per annum on the principal amount of the Note upon the occurrence of the Specified Event, as defined below.

 

Specified Event- means the event that may occur after thesecond anniversary of the Issuer Date if: (i) any amounts under the Series 2023 Notes or any Replacement Financing are outstanding, (ii) the VWAP for the preceding 30 consecutive Trading Days as determined by the Board of Directors of the Issuer in good faith is in excess of the Exercise Price, (iii) the closing Market Price of the Common Stock is in excess of the Exercise Price on the date immediately preceding the date on which the Specified Event occurs, (iv) no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing and (v) the Issuer has delivered a certificate to each holder of Series A Notes certifying that the conditions set forth in clauses (i) through (iv) above have been met.

 

Extension Option- If stock price is lower than current exercise price ($0.92) prior to the stated maturity (November 3, 2018), then the Company can elect an Extension Option, whereby the maturity is extended by one year (see Maturity definition), but with a reduction in exercise price by $0.10.

 

Liquidated Damages- The company is required to pay the noteholders 1% of the principal amount of the Series A Notes if a Registration statement is not filed and effective within 90 days of the inception date (and further damages for every 30 days thereafter). The Company has accrued $200,000 as Other Expense as of December 31, 2014 due to a delay in such filing.

 

The number of shares issuable under the Notes may be affected by the anti-dilution provisions of the Notes. The antidilition provisions adjust the Exercise Price of the Notes in the event of stock dividends and splits, issuance below the market price of the Common Stock, issuances below the conversion price of the Notes, pro rata distribution of assets, rights plans, tender offers, and exchange offers.

11

Table Of Contents

 

These Series A Notes were not issued with the intent of effectively hedging any future cash flow, fair value of any asset, liability or any net investment in a foreign operation. In addition to the customary anti-dilution provisions the notes contain a down-round provision whereby the conversion price would be adjusted downward in the event that additional shares of the Company’s common stock or securities exercisable, convertible or exchangeable for the Company’s common stock were issued for cash consideration (e.g. a capital raise) at a price less than the conversion price.

Therefore, the estimated fair value of the conversion feature of $9,212,285 (based on observable inputs using a Monte Carlo model) was bifurcated from the Series A Notes and accounted for as a separate derivative liability, which resulted in a corresponding amount of debt discount on the Series A Notes. In addition, an additional debt discount of $7,348,486 was recorded as a result of the difference between the $12,500,000 of cash received and the $19,848,486 of principal on the Series A Notes. This combined debt discount of $16,560,771 is being amortized using the effective interest method over the 4-year term of the Notes as Interest Expense, while the PIK Note Derivative is carried at fair value (using a Monte Carlo model) until the Notes are converted or otherwise extinguished. Any changes in fair value are recognized in earnings.

 

13

Table Of Contents

In May 2015, and November 2015 and May 2016, the Company issued $992,424, $1,042,045, and $1,042,045,$1,094,148, respectively, in additional PIK Notes to the holders to pay the semi-annual interest.

 

At March 31,June 30, 2016, the fair value of the Series A PIK Note Derivative was estimated to be $2,907,869,$3,626,505, which includes the value of the additional PIK Notes issued in May and2015, November 2015, and May 2016 for the semi-annual interest payments due. The change in the fair value of the derivative represents a decrease in valuation of $6,310,415$5,585,780 from the November 3, 2014 inception date.

 

Series 2023 Notes

In August 2013, the Company received $10,500,000 of financing through the private placement of 10% mandatory convertible Notes due 2023 ("Series 2023 Notes"). The principal amount of the Notes is due on maturity. The Company can elect to pay semi-annual interest on the Series 2023 Notes with additional PIK Notes containing the same terms as the Series 2023 Notes, except interest will accrue from issuance of such notes. The Company can also elect to pay interest in cash. In February 2016, August 2015 and February 2015, the Company issued $638,141, $607,753 and $578,812, respectively, in additional PIK Notes to the holders to pay the semi-annual interest. In February 2014 and August 2014, the Company issued $525,000 and $551,250, respectively, in additional PIK Notes to the holders to pay the semi-annual interest.

 

The Series 2023 Notes convert into the Company’s common stock at a conversion price of $1.40 per share, which is subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments; these anti-dilution adjustments reduced the conversion price to $1.36 after the issuance of the Series A Notes.Notes and then to $1.28 after the issuance of 10,933,333 units for proceeds of $1.64 million on June 24, 2016. As of issuance, principal amount of the Series 2023 Notes were convertible into 7,500,000 shares of the common stock, and into 7,720,588 shares after the issuance of the Series A Notes.Notes and 8,203,125 shares of common stock after the issuance of the 10,933,333 units.. The holders may convert the Series 2023 Notes at any time. The Series 2023 Notes are mandatorily convertible after one year when the weighted average trading price of a share of the common stock for the preceding ten trading days is in excess of the conversion price. The Series 2023 Notes contain customary representations and warranties and several covenants. The proceeds are being used for general corporate purposes. No broker was used and no commission was paid in connection with the sale of the Series 2023 Notes. As of December 31, 2015, the Company was in compliance with the covenants.

 

These Series 2023 Notes were not issued with the intent of effectively hedging any future cash flow, fair value of any asset, liability or any net investment in a foreign operation. In addition to the customary anti-dilution provisions the notes contain a down-round provision whereby the conversion price would be adjusted downward in the event that additional shares of the Company’s common stock or securities exercisable, convertible or exchangeable for the Company’s common stock were issued for cash consideration (e.g. a capital raise) at a price less than the conversion price. Therefore, the estimated fair value of the conversion feature of $2,055,000 (based on observable inputs using a Monte Carlo model) was bifurcated from the Series 2023 Notes and accounted for as a separate derivative liability, which resulted in a corresponding amount of debt discount on the Series 2023 Notes. The debt discount is being amortized using the effective interest method over the 10-year term of the Series 2023 Notes as Interest Expense, while the PIK Note Derivative is carried at fair value (using a Monte Carlo model) until the Series 2023 Notes are converted or otherwise extinguished. Any changes in fair value are recognized in earnings.

 

At March 31,June 30, 2016, the fair value of the PIK Note Derivative was estimated to be $197,073,$230,329, which includes the value of the additional PIK Notes issued in February 2016, August 2015, February 2015, August 2014 and February 2014 for the semi-annual interest payments due. The change in the fair value of the derivative represents a decrease in valuation of $1,857,927$1,824,671 from the August 2, 2013 inception date.

 

NOTE 8 - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

Preferred Stock

The Company is authorized to issue 10,000,000 shares of noncumulative, non-voting, nonconvertible preferred stock, $0.001 par value per share. At March 31,June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, no shares of preferred stock were outstanding.

 

Common Stock

On November 20, 2012, stockholders of theThe Company approvedis authorized to increase the authorized shares of common stock from 120,000,000issue up to 200,000,000 shares, $0.001 par value per share. At March 31,June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, 97,286,772108,376,049 and 97,144,736 shares were issued and outstanding, respectively.

 

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2016, the Company issued a total of 142,036185,959 shares of common stock valued at $63,229$45,094 to directors and consultants as payments of fees. An additional 118,994 shares, valued at $26,580, were issued to employees in lieu of cash compensation.

During the six months ended June 30, 2016, the Company issued 10,933,339 units valued at $1,640,000 as part of a private placement. Each unit consisted of one share of common stock and one warrant to purchase 0.3 shares of common stock at $0.25 per share. The Company received $1,640,000 in proceeds and no commissions were paid.

 
1214

Table Of Contents
 

 

NOTE 9 - OPTIONS AND WARRANTS TO PURCHASE COMMON STOCK

 

Outstanding Stock Warrants

A summary of the status of the warrants outstanding and exercisable at March 31,June 30, 2016 is presented below:

 

   

Warrants Outstanding and Exercisable

    

Warrants Outstanding and Exercisable

 

Exercise Price

Exercise Price

  

Number Outstanding

  

Weighted Average

Remaining

Contractual Life

(years)

  

Weighted Average

Exercise Price

 

Exercise Price

  

Number

Outstanding

  

Weighted Average

Remaining

Contractual Life

(years)

  

Weighted

Average

Exercise Price

 
$1.15   461,340   5.08  $1.15 0.25   3,283,283   5.00  $0.25 
$2.00   54,367   0.34  $2.00 1.15   461,340   4.83  $1.15 
$2.00   54,367   0.09  $2.00 
    515,707   4.58  $1.24     3,798,990   4.91  $0.38 

 

No warrants were issued during 2015 or the first quarter of 2016. On June 24, 2016 the Company sold 10,933,333 units at $0.15 per unit. The sale of the units included the issuance of warrants to purchase 3,283,283 shares of common stock. Each warrant has an exercise price of $0.25 per share and a term of five years. The intrinsic value of the outstanding warrants was $0 at March 31, 2016 was $0.June 30, 2016.

 

Outstanding Stock Options

On November 20, 2012, the shareholders of the Company approved the adoption of the Applied Minerals, Inc. 2012 Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”) and the Short-Term Incentive Plan (“STIP”) and the performance criteria used in setting performance goals for awards intended to be performance-based. Under the LTIP, 8,900,000 shares are authorized for issuance. The STIP does not refer to a particular number of shares under the LTIP, but would use the shares authorized in the LTIP for issuance under the STIP. The CEO, the CFO, and named executive officers, and directors, among others are eligible to participate in the LTIP and STIP. Prior to the adoption of the LTIP and STIP, stock options were granted under individual arrangements between the Company and the grantees, and approved by the Board of Directors.

 

On May 11, 2016, the Board of Directors has adopted the 2016 Long Term Incentive Plan (the “Plan”). The Plan, administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board allows for the following types of incentive awards: stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, performance shares, performance units or other stock-based award. Such awards may be issued to employees, consultants and non-employee directors. The aggregate number of shares of common stock that may be issued or used for reference purposes with respect to which awards may be granted under the Plan shall not exceed two million.

The fair value of each of the Company's stock option awards is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model that uses the assumptions noted in the table below. Expected volatility is based on an average of historical volatility of the Company's common stock. The risk-free interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the stock option award is based on the yield curve of a zero-coupon U.S. Treasury Bond on the date the award is granted with a maturity equal to the expected term of the award.

 

The significant assumptions relating to the valuation of the Company's options issued for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2016 and 2015 were as follows on a weighted average basis:

 

 

March 31, 2016

  

December 31, 2015

  

2016

  

2015

 

Dividend Yield

  0  0  0%  0%

Expected Life (years)

  6.7   5.6   5.0   5.6 

Expected Volatility

  79.7  51.0  83.4%  51.0%

Risk Free Interest Rate

  1.86  1.47  1.20%  1.47%

 

A summary of the status and changes of the options granted under stock option plans and other agreements for the first quarter ofsix months ended June 30, 2016 is as follows:

 

 

March 31, 2016

 
     

Weighted

  

Weighted Average

 
     

Average

  

Remaining

  

June 30, 2016

 
 

Shares

  

Exercise Price

  

Contractual Life*

  

Shares

  

Weighted

Average

Exercise Price

  

Weighted

Average Remaining

Contractual Life *

 
                        

Outstanding at beginning of period

  17,806,472  $1.00   5.12   17,806,472  $1.00     

Issued

  907,833   0.27   7.60   2,671,488   0.26     

Exercised

  -0-   --   --   - 0 -   - 0 -     

Forfeited

  -0-   --   --   - 0 -   - 0 -     

Outstanding at end of period

  18,714,305  $0.96   5.01   20,477,960  $0.92   4.54 

Exercisable at end of period

  17,218,886  $1.00   4.75   19,271,284  $0.92   4.50 

*Measured in years

 

 
1315 

Table Of Contents
 

 

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2016, the Company granted 907,8332,671,488 options to purchase the Company’s common stock with a weighted average exercise price of $0.27$0.26 and the following vesting schedule.

Vesting Information

Shares

Frequency

Begin Date

End Date

250,000

Quarterly

01/01/2016

10/01/2016

158,206

Immediately

01/05/2016

01/05/2016

43,885

Immediately

01/06/2016

01/06/2016

32,415

Immediately

01/09/2016

01/09/2016

81,522

Annually

01/19/2017

01/19/2018

81,395

Annually

01/27/2017

01/27/2018

80,000Annually01/28/201701/28/2018
144,815

Annually

01/29/2017

01/29/2018

35,595

Annually

02/01/2017

02/01/2018

A summary of the status of the options outstanding at March 31, 2016 is presented below:

Options Outstanding

  

Options Exercisable

 

Number

Outstanding

  

Weighted

Average

Remaining

Contractual Life

(years)

  

Weighted

Average

Exercise

Price

  

Number

Exercisable

  

Weighted

Average

Exercise

Price

 
                  
81,395   7.89  $0.21   - 0 -  $0.21 
100,000   4.47  $0.22   50,002  $0.22 
35,595   7.04  $0.27   - 0 -  $0.27 
474,815   8.11  $0.28   62,500  $0.28 
234,506   6.89  $0.285   234,506  $0.285 
81,522   4.81  $0.30   - 0 -  $0.30 
200,000   8.88  $0.66   200,000  $0.66 
150,000   8.86  $0.68   49,995  $0.68 
7,233,277   2.75  $0.70   7,233,277  $0.70 
488,356   9.13  $0.73   128,767  $0.73 
3,405,134   5.44  $0.83   3,405,134  $0.83 
975,000   8.20  $0.84   741,667  $0.84 
300,000   7.39  $1.10   200,000  $1.10 
300,000   7.24  $1.15   258,333  $1.15 
100,000   1.84  $1.24   100,000  $1.24 
115,000   4.99  $1.35   115,000  $1.35 
125,000   1.84  $1.45   125,000  $1.45 
330,000   5.70  $1.55   330,000  $1.55 
7,645   1.84  $1.58   7,645  $1.58 
3,077,060   6.64  $1.66   3,077,060  $1.66 
900,000   5.39  $1.90   900,000  $1.90 
18,714,305   5.00  $1.00   17,218,886  $1.00 

The weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during the first quarterhalf of 2016 was $0.27.$0.10.

 

Compensation expense of $126,982$238,064 and $99,938$107,660 has been recognized for the vested options for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and $365,045 and $207,598 for the six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value of the outstanding options at March 31,June 30, 2016 was $0. At March 31,June 30, 2016, $328,745 of unamortized compensation expense for unvested options is expected to be recognized over the next 1.521.27 years on a weighted average basis.

14

Table Of Contents

NOTE 10 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

Commitments

The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as of March 31,June 30, 2016 that require us to make future cash payments:

 

 

Payment due by period

  

Payment due by period

 
 

Total

  

< 1 year

  

1 - 3 years

  

Total

  

< 1 year

  

1 - 3 years

 

Contractual Obligations:

                        

Rent obligations

 $118,179  $118,179  $--  $78,783  $78,783  $- 0 - 

Total

 $118,179  $118,179  $--  $78,783  $78,783  $- 0 - 

 

Contingencies

In accordance with ASC Topic 450, when applicable, we record accruals for contingencies when it is probable that a liability will be incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. We may become involved in or subject to, routine litigation, claims, disputes, proceedings and investigations in the ordinary course of business, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, cash flows or results of operations.

 
1516

Table Of Contents
 

  

ITEMITEM2     MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Forward-looking Statements

 

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections about our business and our industry. Words such as "believe," "anticipate," "expect," "intend," "plan," "will," "may," and other similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements.

 

Overview

 

Applied Minerals, Inc. (the “Company” or “we” or “us”) is focused primarily on (i) the development, marketing and marketingsale of our halloysite clay-based DRAGONITE™ line of products for use to improve the performance of end-products in application markets such as flame retardant additives for plastics, nucleation, thermosets and adhesives, reinforcement, molecular sieves and catalysts, ceramics, binders, cosmetics, controlled release carriers and environmental remediation and (ii) the development, marketing and marketingsale of our AMIRON™ line of iron oxide products for pigmentary and technical applications.

 

The Company owns the Dragon Mine, which has significant deposits of high-quality halloysite clay and iron oxide. The 267-acre property is located in southwestern Utah and its resource was mined for halloysite on a large-scale, commercial basis between 1949 and 1976 for use as a petroleum cracking catalyst. The mine was idle until 2001 when the Company leased it to develop its halloysite resource for advanced, high-value applications. We purchased 100% of the property in 2005.

 

Halloysite is an aluminosilicate clay that possesses a tubular morphology with a hollow lumen (pore). Traditionally, halloysite has been used to manufacture porcelain, bone china and catalysts used in the petroleum cracking process.

A significant amount of academic and industrial research has been performed on the commercial uses of halloysite clay beyond porcelain products and ceramicceramic-based catalysts. This research has identified a wide array of application areas in which the unique morphology of halloysite can be utilized to either enhance the performance of existing applications or create new high-performance ones. Since 2009, management has been primarily focused on developing halloysite-based products, marketed under the DRAGONITE™ trade name, for advanced applications, such as, but not limited to, reinforcement additives for polymer composites, flame retardant additives for polymers, controlled release carriers for paints and coatings, strength reinforcement additives for cement, concrete, mortars and grouts, rheology additives for drilling fluids, environmental remediation media, and carriers of agricultural agents. The clays used in these advanced applications sell for significantly higher prices than those used in more traditional applications. Nanoclays have been used as additives to develop high performance plastic composites. These nanoclays provide functionality to polymer matrices that cannot be replicated using traditional fillers. Nanoclays, such as treated montmorillonite, sell for up to $5,000 per ton due, in large part, to the cost associated with exfoliating the clay so it may be properly dispersed within a polymer matrix. Halloysite has been shown to be as effective a polymer additive as nanoclay without requiring a costly exfoliation to disperse it within a polymer matrix. The Company has and continues to utilize a number of employees and consultants to research and develop the use of halloysite for advanced applications.

 

In addition to the development of its halloysite resource, management has also developed a line of iron oxide-based products for the pigmentary and technical markets. The Dragon Mine has a resource of 3.3 million tons of natural iron oxide mineralized material, which is comprised primarily of goethite and hematite. Initially, theThe resource was considered to be utilizable as only an input of the steel-manufacturing process but, upon additional analysis, the iron resource was found to bepossesses a high-quality natural iron oxide due to its high Fe2O3 content, exceptional chemical purity, good dispersability, good tinting strength and color saturation, low color variation, and low content of heavy metals.oxide. High-quality iron oxides have commercial uses in a number of higher valuehigh-value applications such aswithin the aforementioned pigmentary and technical markets. The Company’s AMIRON product line includes semi-transparent and opaque pigments for the construction, concrete, paints and coatings, and plastics and rubber industries. AMIRON’s technical oxides, due to their particularly high surface area of 25 m2/g – 125 m2/g and reactivity, can be used as the media for the removal of toxins from waste and drinking water, as a catalyst for desulfurization, and a foundry sand additive. The Company currently has 24,229 tons of mined iron ore in stockpiles on the surface of the mine property.

 

The Company has carried out an extensive drilling program to characterize the mineralized material at the Dragon Mine. In addition, in January 2014, the Company commissioned a mineral processing plant with a capacity of up to 45,000 tons per annum for certain applications. Currently, this facilitythat is currently dedicated to the iron oxide resource except for occasional processing of halloysite. Additionally, theits AMIRON product., The Company has anothera smaller processing facility with a capacity of 5,000 – 10,000 tons per annum that is currently dedicated to its halloysite resource.

In late 2015, the Company entered into a $5 million take-or-pay supply agreement for its AMIRON product. The $5 million portion of the take-or-pay agreement is expected to be completed by June 2017. In July, 2016 the Company received an order for 5 tons of DRAGONITE from a leading zeolite/molecular sieve manufacturer, which plans to carry out a commercial-scale trial of a halloysite-based molecular sieve product. The Company is involved in a number of advanced-stage product development projects with customers that operate within industries that include, but are not limited to, catalysts and oilfield services. The Company has engaged leading special material distribution organizations, HORN, Brandt Technologies and KODA Distribution Group for the U.S. and Fimatec LTD for Korea. During the six months ended June 30, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors established an Operations Committee to which it appointed Mario Concha and Robert Betz. The purpose of the Operations Committee is to advise the Company’s management team on how best to execute its operations, marketing and sales strategies.

 

Applied Minerals is a publicly traded company incorporated in the state of Delaware. The common stock trades on the OTCQB under the symbol AMNL.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("US GAAP"). In connection with the preparationA complete discussion of our consolidated financial statements, we are required to make assumptionscritical accounting policies and estimates about future events and apply judgments that affectis included in our Form 10-K for the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses and the related disclosures. We baseyear ended December 31, 2015. There have been no material changes in our assumptions, estimates, and judgments on historical experience, current trends and other factors that management believes to be relevant at the time our consolidated financial statements are prepared. On a regular basis, we review thecritical accounting policies assumptions, estimates and judgments to ensure that our consolidated financial statements are presented fairly and in accordance with US GAAP. However, because future events and their effects cannot be determined with certainty, actual results could differ from our assumptions and estimates and such differences could be material.

16

Table Of Contents

The following accounting policies have been identified by management as policies criticalduring the six-month period ended June 30, 2016 compared to the Company's financial reporting:disclosures on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

Fair Value

ASC Topic 820,Fair Value Measurement and Disclosures, defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. This topic also establishes a fair value hierarchy, which requires classification based on observable and unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The fair value hierarchy distinguishes between assumptions based on market data (observable inputs) and an entity’s own assumptions (unobservable inputs). The hierarchy consists of three levels:

Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities

Level 2 – observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities

Level 3 –significant unobservable inputs

The recorded value of certain financial assets and liabilities, which consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, other current assets, and accounts payable and accrued expenses approximate the fair value at December 31, 2015 and 2014 based upon the short-term nature of the assets and liabilities. Based on borrowing rates currently available to the Company for loans with similar terms, and the remaining short term period outstanding, the carrying value of notes payable materially approximate fair value. For the Company’s warrant and PIK note derivative liabilities the fair value was estimated using a Monte Carlo Model.

Impairment of Long-lived Assets 

The Company periodically reviews the carrying amounts of long-lived assets to determine whether current events or circumstances warrant adjustment to such carrying amounts. Long-lived assets are tested for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that its carrying amount may not be recoverable. When such events occur, the Company compares the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset to its carrying amount.

If this comparison indicates impairment, the amount of the impairment is typically calculated using discounted expected future cash flows where observable fair values are not readily determinable. Considerable management judgment is necessary to estimate the fair value of assets. Assets to be disposed of are carried at the lower of their financial statement carrying amount or fair value, less cost to sell.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the FASB issued newFor information with respect to recent accounting guidance, Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, on revenue recognition. The new standard provides for a single five-step model to be applied to all revenue contracts with customers as well as requires additional financial statement disclosures that will enable users to understand the nature, amount, timingpronouncements, if any, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows relating to customer contracts. Companies have an option to use either a retrospective approach or cumulative effect adjustment approach to implement the standard. Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period. Early adoption is permitted, but not before the original effective date of the standard. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new guidancethese pronouncements on our consolidated financial statements.

In April 2015, the FASB issued an ASU 2015-03, which requires that debt issuance costs be presentedCondensed Consolidated Financial Statements, if any, see Note 4 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in the balance sheet as a direct reduction to the carrying amount of the associated debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. Currently debt issuance costs are recognized as an asset. The ASU is effective for the Company in the first quarter of 2017 and is required to be applied retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect the adoption of this standard to have a material impact on its balance sheets.

In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02, Leases, which is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2018 with early adoption permitted. Under Accounting Standards Update 2016-02, lessees will be required to recognize for all leases at the commencement date a lease liability, which is a lessee's obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease measured on a discounted basis, and a right-to-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee's right to use or control the use of a specified asset for the lease term. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that the new guidance will have on its financial statements and related disclosures.

In November 2015, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2015-17, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. Accounting Standards Update 2015-17 simplifies current guidance and requires companies to classify all deferred tax assets and liabilities as noncurrent on the balance sheet. Accounting Standards Update 2015-17 can be applied either prospectively or retrospectively and is effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company does not anticipate the new guidance will have a material impact on its financial statements and related disclosures.Quarterly Report.

 

 
17

Table Of Contents
 

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016June 30, 2016 Compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2015June 30, 2015

 

Results of Operations

 

The following sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain components of our operating earnings, including such data stated as percentage of revenues:

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

  

Variance

  

Three Months Ended June 30,

  

Variance

 
 

2016

  

2015

  

Amount

  

%

  

2016

  

2015

  

Amount

  

%

 
                                

REVENUES

 $1,001,628  $162,747   838,881   515.5% $1,112,467  $65,848  $1,046,619   1,589.5%
                                

OPERATING EXPENSES:

                                

Production costs

  4,549   2,235   2,314   103.5%  220,970   3,934   217,036   55.2%

Exploration costs

  778,879   1,327,281   (548,402)  (41.3%)  584,150   1,291,197   (707,047)  (54.8)%

General and administrative

  1,173,826   1,182,309   (8,483  (0.7%)  1,066,927   1,247,466   (180,539)  (14.5)%

Depreciation expense

  336,087   326,222   9,865   3.0%  338,333   326,684   11,649   3.6%

Total Operating Expenses

  2,293,341   2,838,047   (544,706)  (19.2%)  2,210,380   2,869,281   (658,901)  (23.0)%
                                

Operating Loss

  (1,291,713)  (2,675,300)  1,383,587   (51.7%)  (1,097,913)  (2,803,433)  1,705,520   60.8%
                                

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):

                                

Interest expense, net, including amortization of deferred financing cost and debt discount

  (1,372,420)  (1,028,627)  (343,793)  33.4%  (1,356,841)  (1,092,595)  (264,246)  (24.2)%

Interest income

  585   --   585   -- 

Gain on disposal of property

  92,491   --   92,491   -- 

(Loss) gain on revaluation of PIK Note derivative

  2,033,915   (92,741)  2,126,656   (2,293.1%)  (742,509)  1,313,110   (2,055,619)  (156.5)%

Other income (expense)

  --   (397,797)  397,797   --   11,904   (145,958)  157,862   108.2%
                                

Total Other Income (Expense)

  754,571   (1,519,165)  2,273,736   (149.7%)  (2,087,446)  74,557   (2,162,003)  (2,899.8)%
                                

NET LOSS

 $(537,142) $(4,194,465) $3,657,323   (87.2%) $(3,185,359) $(2,728,876) $(456,483)  (16.7)%

 

 

Revenue generated during the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2016 was $1,001,628,$1,112,467 compared to $162,747$65,848 of revenue generated during the same period in 2015, an increase of 515.5%1,589.5%. This increase was due primarily to the sale of AMIRON iron oxide through a take-or-pay supply agreement entered into by the Company on November 2, 2015. During the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2016, the Company, through the take-or-pay supply agreement, generated $856,128$1,022,468 of revenue. This agreement did not exist during the same period in 2015. Also contributing to the revenue increase during the quarter was $114,400$57,200 of sales of DRAGONITE halloysite clay for use in a specialty zeolite application that were not realized during the same period in 2015 and $7,776$8,500 of sales of AMIRONDRAGONITE to two customers for use within a pigment application.as an additive in plastic applications. Partially offsetting the increase in revenue during the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2016, was a $79,200 declinethe absence of $28,000 in sales of AMIRONDRAGONITE to a producerdistributor located in Taiwan that occurred in the same period in 2015, and distributor of pigments, a $38,673$12,000 decline in sales of DRAGONITE to a customer for use as a nucleating agent andbinder in a decline of approximately $20,000 in sales of DRAGONITEceramic application due primarily to a numbertiming difference.

Total operating expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2016 were $2,210,380 compared to $2,869,281 of customers for plant trials. We believeoperating expenses incurred during the declinesame period in sales2015, a decrease of AMIRON to a producer of pigments and the decline in sales of DRAGONITE to a customer for use as a nucleating agent are due to those customers still working through their respective inventories of our products.$658,901 or 23.0%. The decline in salesoperating costs was driven by primarily by a $707,047 decline in exploration costs and a $180,539 decline in general and administrative expense, partially offset by a $217,036 increase in product costs driven primarily by the effect of DRAGONITEthe Company’s take-or-pay supply contract for its AMIRON iron oxide, which was not in effect during the same period in 2015.

Production costs incurred during the three months ended June 30, 2016 were $220,970 compared to $3,934 of costs incurred during the same period in 2015, an increase of $217,036 or 55.2%. These costs consist primarily of the direct labor, energy and material expenditures required to produce saleable product. The increase in costs incurred during the quarter ended June 30, 2016 were associated, in large part, to the production of the Company’s AMIRON iron oxide product related to the fulfillment of its take-or-pay supply contract, which was not in effect during the same period in 2015.

Exploration costs incurred during the three months ended June 30, 2016 were $584,150 compared to $1,291,197 of exploration costs incurred during the same period in 2015, a decrease of $707,047 or 54.8%. Exploration costs are associated with the Company’s activities at its Dragon Mine location, excluding costs associated with production. The decline was driven primarily by a $395,402 decrease in wages and wage-related expense due to a numberreduction in headcount at the Company’s Dragon Mine operation. This reduction in headcount resulted from the planned completion of customers for plant trials wascertain underground exploration activities during the third quarter of 2015. Expenses related to underground development, such as materials and supplies, equipment rental, ground support expense and drilling supplies, declined by $267,175 due primarilyto the aforementioned completion of underground development at the Dragon Mine. Professional services expense decreased by $53,500 due to the elimination of geological consulting related to the completion of those trials.planned characterization of the Dragon Mine property. Outside lab expenses at the Dragon Mine decreased by approximately $24,400 due to the Company’s decision to establish a lab on-site during the first half of 2015.

 

 
18

Table Of Contents
 

 

General and administrative expenses incurred during the three months ended June 30, 2016 totaled $1,066,927 compared to $1,247,466 of expense incurred during the same period in 2015, a decrease of $180,539, or 14.5%. The Company’s selling and administrative expenses are associated primarily with its New York operations.

The largest component of the Company’s general and administrative expense includes wage, wage-related and equity-based expense. Wage expense for the three months ended June 30, 2016 totaled $432,289, a decline of $27,400 compared to the same period in 2015. This decline was driven by a decline of $68,100 in wages related to staff reductions and of $33,000 related to a reduction in wages of certain employees, partially offset by $74,000 of additional wages related to the hiring of a Director of Sales during the period. Wage-related expense for the three months ended June 30, 2016 increased by approximately $16,000. The increase was related primarily to a $7,500 increase in workers’ compensation expense due to a timing difference in recognizing the expense and a $7,800 increase in employee health care expense.

Equity-based expense totaled $238,064 during the quarter, an increase of $130,404 when compared to the same period in 2015. The increase was driven primarily by an increase in the number of equity-based options outstanding at June 30, 2016 compared to the number outstanding at June 30, 2015. Equity-based compensation expense for employees for the three months ended June 30, 2016 was $162,901, an increase of $87,770 when compared to the similar period in 2015, which was due primarily the payment of equity-based rather than cash bonuses. Equity-based compensation for directors was $75,163 during the three months ended June 30, 2016, an increase of $59,160 when compared to the same period in 2015, which was driven by the directors’ decision to take a larger portion of their compensation in equity-based grants. These increases were partially offset by a decline in equity-based compensation expenses for consultants. Total compensation for the Company’s directors (cash and equity) for the three months ended June 30, 2016 was $125,650, a decline of $4,460 when compared to the same period in 2015.

Expenses associated with professional services totaled $36,538 during the three months ended June 30, 2016, a decline of $148,802 when compared to the same period in 2015. The decrease was driven primarily by a $47,500 reduction in expense related to the utilization of outside legal firms, the elimination of $39,500 of consulting expense related to product development, a $39,700 decline in accounting expenses and the absence of a $24,700 expense related to the valuation of fixed assets incurred during 2015.

Expense incurred for shareholder services totaled $16,400 during the period, a decline of $59,700, driven primarily by a reduction in fees paid for investor relations services. Expenses incurred for property taxes, licenses and fees increased by $37,200 during the period due, in large part, to the timing of the recognition of the expenses.

Operating loss incurred during the three months ended June 30, 2016 was $1,097,913 compared to a loss of $2,803,433 incurred during the same period in 2015, a decrease of $1,705,520 or 60.8%. The decrease in operating loss during the quarter was due to a 1,589.5% increase in revenue and a 23.0% decrease in operating expense. The Company’s performance under its take-or-pay supply agreement during the quarter and its focus on the reduction of non-revenue related operating expense were the primary drivers of the decline in operating loss.

Net loss for the three-month period ending June 30, 2016 was $3,185,359 compared to a loss of $2,728,876 incurred during the same period in 2015, an increase of $456,483, or 16.7%. The increase in net loss was due primarily to a $2,055,619 decline in the gain on revaluation of PIK Note derivative, a $264,246 increase in interest expense due to an increase in the principal amount of the Company Series 2023 and Series A PIK Notes, and selling expense of $15,900 related to the sale of non-core real estate, partially offset by a $1,705,520 increase in operating income, the absence of $145,600 in PIK Note penalty expenses incurred during the three months ended June 30, 2015, and a $27,500 dividend payment received from the Company workers’ comp insurance provider.

19

Table Of Contents

Six Months Ended June 30, 2016Compared to Three Months Ended June 30,2015

Results of Operations

The following sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain components of our operating earnings, including such data stated as percentage of revenues:

  

Six Months Ended June 30,

  

Variance

 
  

2016

  

2015

  

Amount

  

%

 
                 

REVENUES

 $2,114,095  $228,595  $1,885,500   824.8%
                 

OPERATING EXPENSES:

                

Production costs

  476,670   6,170   470,500   76.3%

Exploration costs

  1,111,878   2,618,478   (1,506,600)  (57.5)%

General and administrative

  2,250,136   2,429,775   (179,639)  (7.4)%

Depreciation expense

  674,420   652,905   21,515   3.3%

Total Operating Expenses

  4,513,104   5,707,328   (1,194,224)  (20.9)%
                 

Operating Loss

  (2,399,009)  (5,478,733)  (3,079,724)  (56.2)%
                 

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):

                

Interest expense, net, including amortization of deferred financing cost and debt discount

  (2,729,261)  (2,121,222)  (608,039)  (28.7)%

Gain on revaluation of PIK Note derivative

  1,291,406   1,220,369   71,037   5.8%

Other income (expense)

  104,980   (543,755)  648,735   119.3%
                 

Total Other Income (Expense)

  (1,332,875)  (1,144,608)  (188,267)  (16.4)%
                 

NET LOSS

 $(3,731,884) $(6,923,341) $3,191,457   46.1%

Revenue generated during the six months ended June 30, 2016 was $2,114,095, compared to $228,595 of revenue generated during the same period in 2015, an increase of 824.8%. This increase was due primarily to the performance under a take-or-pay supply contract the Company has for its AMIRON iron oxide. During the six months ended June 30, 2016, the take-or-pay supply agreement accounted for $1,864,772 in sales of AMIRON, which did not occur during the same period in 2015. DRAGONITE sold for use in a molecular sieve application increased by $171,600 during the period. These increases were partially offset by the absence of $79,200 in sales of AMIRON to a distributor, the absence of $39,000 in sales of DRAGONITE to an injection molder of plastic components and the absence of $28,500 of sales of DRAGONITE to Taiwan-based distributor.

Total operating expenses for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2016 were $2,293,341$4,513,104 compared to $2,838,047$5,707,328 of operating expenses incurred during the same period in 2015, a decrease of $544,706$1,194,224 or 19.2%20.9%. The decline in operating costs was driven primarily by a decline of $548,402$1,506,600 in explorations costs and an $8,483 decreasea $179,639 decline in general and administrative expense.expense, partially offset by an increase of $470,500 in production costs.

Production costs incurred during the six months ended June 30, 2016 were $476,670 compared to $6,170 of costs incurred during the same period in 2015, an increase of $470,500 or 76.3%. These costs consist primarily of the direct labor, energy and material expenditures required to produce saleable product. The increase in costs incurred during the six months ended June 30, 2016 were associated, in large part, to the production of the Company’s AMIRON iron oxide product related to the fulfillment of its take-or-pay supply contract, which was not in effect during the same period in 2015.

 

Exploration costs incurred during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2016 were $778,879$1,111,878 compared to $1,327,281 of exploration costs$2,618,478 incurred during the same period in 2015, a decrease of $548,402$1,506,600 or 41.3%57.5%. Exploration costs are associated with the Company’s activities at its Dragon Mine location.location, excluding costs associated with production. The decline was driven primarily by a $215,127$856,000 decrease in wages and wage-related expense due to a reduction in headcount at the Company’s Dragon Mine operation. This reduction in headcount resulted from the planned completion of certain underground exploration activities. Expenses related to underground development, such as materials and supplies, equipment rental, ground support expense and drilling supplies, declined by $195,715$411,833 due to the aforementioned completion of underground development at the Dragon Mine. Professional and consulting services expense decreased by $79,854$208,442 due primarily to the elimination of geological consulting work related to the completion of planned characterization of the Dragon Mine property. Testing expenses related toproperty and the elimination of the use of third-partyoutside labs declined by $62,355 due to the Company’s establishment of afor geological testing lab at the Dragon Mine. Supply expenses related to equipment maintenance declined by $38,970. The decrease in the above components of exploration expense was partially offset by an increase in propane costs of $25,159 due to the processing of iron oxide, a $12,107 increase in insurance expense related to an increase in business interruption coverage, a $10,124 increase in diesel and utility expense, and a $2,487 increase in postage and shipping expense.purposes.

 

General and administrative expenses incurred during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2016 totaled $1,173,826$2,250,136 compared to $1,182,309$2,429,775 of expense incurred during the same period in 2015, a decrease of $8,483,$179,639, or 0.7%7.4%. The Company’s selling and administrative expenses are associated primarily with its New York operations.

 

20

Table Of Contents

The largest component of the Company’s general and administrative expense includes wage, wage-related and equity-based compensation to employees, directors and consultants. Wages for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2016 totaled $643,791,$1,076,180, an increase of $184,111$156,664 when compared to the same period in 2015. The increase was due primarily to $112,500 in performance bonus payments paid to the Company’s CFO, General Counsel and a third employee that were not paid during the same period in 2015, $78,000$145,500 in wages paid to two new sales employees who were not employees during the same period in 2015, a $75,000 bonus payment paid to the Company’s CEO this quarterduring the period that was paid in the fourth quarter of 2014, and $25,000 of wages paid to the Company’s General Counsel during this quarterthe period that were paid in the fourth quarter of 2014, partially offset by $68,661$138,600 of wages not paid to employees during the quarterperiod who left the Company during 2015. After adjusting for the effects of the aforementioned bonus payments2015 and wage increases due to the net hiring of new employees, the Company’s$62,300 in reductions in wage expense during the quarter would have been $421,952, $37,728 less than the wage expense incurred during the same period in 2015. This decline is due to the effect of a reduction in the salaries offor certain employees, announced by the Company in late 2015.existing employees.

 

Expense associated with equity grants totaled $126,961$365,045 during the quarter,period, an increase of $27,043$157,197 when compared to the same period in 2015. ThisThe increase during the quarter was driven primarily due toby an increase in the number of equity-based options outstanding at June 30, 2016 compared to the number outstanding at June 30, 2015. Equity-based compensation grantedexpense for employees for the six months ended June 30, 2016 was $229,358, an increase of $64,077 when compared to employees and directors. In particular, certain employees andthe same period in 2015, which was due primarily to the payment of equity-based rather than cash-based bonuses. Equity-based compensation expense for directors electedwas $127,747 during the six months ended June 30, 2016, an increase of $95,596 when compared to the same period in 2015, which was driven by the directors’ decision to take a portion, or a greaterlarger portion of their compensation in equityequity-based grants. Total compensation for the Company’s directors, both equity-based and cash-based, for the six months ended June 30, 2016 was $245,360, a decline of $720 when compared to the same period in 2015. The increases in wage and equity-based compensation during the quarterexpense for both employees and directors were partially offset by an $86,277a relatively small decline in equity-based compensation expenses for consultants.

Expenses associated with professional services totaled $95,238 during the period, a decline of $221,490. The decline was driven primarily by a $79,800 decrease in shareholder expense, a $63,793 decrease infees associated with the useutilization of outside legal firms, a $70,800 decline in fees paid to a consulting firm used for product development, a $36,800 decline in fees paid for accounting services due to a reduction in certain regulatory filings and consulting services, a $31,201 decreasethe elimination of $24,700 in directors’ cash compensation, and a $13,010 decrease in travel expense. These declines areexpenses related to the result of actions outlined by the Company in late 2015 focused on the reductionvaluation of certain operating expense.of the Company’s fixed assets by a consulting firm during the comparable period in 2015.

Expenses incurred for property taxes, licenses and related fees declined by $26,200 during the period.

 

Operating loss incurred during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2016 was $1,291,713$2,399,009 compared to a loss of $2,675,300$5,478,733 incurred during the same period in 2015, a decrease of $1,383,587$3,079,724 or 51.7%56.2%. The decrease in operating loss during the quarter was due to a 515.5%an 824.8% increase in revenue and an 18.9%a 20.9% decrease in operating expense. The Company’s execution ofperformance under its take-or-pay supply agreement during late 2015 and its focus on the quarter wasreduction of certain operating expenses, both at Utah and New York, were the primary driverdrivers of the decline in operating loss.

 

Net Loss for the three-monthsix-month period ending March 31,June 30, 2016 was $537,142$3,731,884 compared to a loss of $4,194,465$6,923,341 incurred during the same period in 2015, a decrease of $3,657,323,$3,191,457, or 87.2%46.1%. The decline in net loss was due primarily to the 51.4%$3,079,724, or 56.2%, decline in operating loss, a $2,033,915$541,100 penalty expense related to the Company’s Series A PIK Notes in 2015, a $71,037 increase in gain on revaluation of PIK Note derivative, a $108,400 net gain on the revaluationsale of non-core real estate assets and an annual dividend of $27,435 received from the PIK Note derivative compared to a loss of $92,741 during the comparable period in 2015, and a $397,797 decline in other expense,Company workers’ compensation insurance policy. These gains were partially offset by a $343,793$608,039 increase in interest expense.expense and sales expense of $32,187 incurred from the sale of the Company’s non-core real estate. The increase in interest expense over the six months ended June 30, 2015 was due to an increase in the outstanding balance of PIK Note over the period. This increase was due to the Company’s decision to pay the interest due on its PIK Notes in additional PIK Notes.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

The Company has a history of recurring losses from operations and the use of cash in operating activities. For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2016, the Company's net loss was $537,142$3,731,884 and cash used in operating activities was $904,301. In addition, at March 31,$1,528,002. At June 30, 2016, the Company had a working capital deficiency of $361,567, which includes $1,113,727$1,338,077. The calculation of working capital took into account the following items that reduced working capital but that the Company does not believe that it will have to pay in cash: $919,913 of accrued PIK Note interest, which the Company expects to satisfy through the issuance of additional PIK Notes,pay in-kind and $148,851$167,841 of payables for which the Company believes it has a statute of limitations defense. Furthermore, the Company last obtained financing in November 2014 but cannot provide any assurance that it will be able to raise additional financing if needed. Collectively, these factors raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.

Based on the Company’s current cash balance and it cash usage expectations, for 2016, it believes it will have sufficient liquidity to fund its operations for at least the next 12 months only if it successfully accelerates the fulfillment of the aforementioned take-or-pay agreement to December 2016 on acceptable economic terms. However, the Company can provide no assurances that it will be able to negotiate an agreement to accelerate the fulfillment of the agreement on acceptable economic terms. These financial statements do not include any adjustments to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should the Company not be able to continue as a going concern.months.

  

Cash used in operating activities induring the first six months of 2016 was $904,301$1,528,002 compared to $2,856,815$4,731,175 of cash used during the same period in 2015. The primary drivers ofdriver behind the decline$3,203,173 reduction in cash used by operating activities was the $3,191,457 reduction in the usage of cash wereCompany’s net loss. As described before, the $838,881, or 515.5%,decrease in net loss was driven primarily by an 824.8% increase in revenue and the $544,706, or 19.2%,a 20.9% decrease in operating expenses when compared to the same period in 2015. Changesexpenses. The change in operating assets and liabilities also benefittedpartially offset the reduction in cash used by operating cash flow by approximately $105,000.activities during the period.

 

Cash provided by investing activities during 2016 was $89,561$432,161 compared to $0$17,995 used during the same period in 2015. The increase in cash providedgenerated by investing activities during the quarter consistedperiod resulted from $552,944 of proceeds generated from the sale of property for $156,672,non-core land owned by the Company in Idaho, partially offset by the purchase of certain capital equipment for $67,111.during the period.

 

Cash used inprovided by financing activities during 2016 was $87,814$1,467,458 compared to $113,558$203,440 of cash used during the same period in 2015. On June 24, 2016 the Company raised $1.64 million through the sale of 10,933,333 units at $0.15 per unit. Attached to each unit sold was one share of common stock and a warrant to purchase 0.3 shares of the Company’s common stock. As a result of the sale, the Company issued 10,933,333 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 3,280,000 shares of common stock at $0.25 per share. The cash used in financing activities was related to the paymentwarrants have a term of notes.five years and do not contain a provision that allows for a cashless exercise.

 

21

Table Of Contents

Total assets at March 31,June 30, 2016 were $7,004,249$7,757,085 compared to $8,318,112 at December 31, 2015, a decrease of $1,313,863$561,027 due primarily to the sale of assets held for sale, the depreciation of property, plant and equipment and a decreasereduction in prepaid assets, partially offset by an increase in cash related tofrom the funding of operations.Company’s recent capital raise and an increase in accounts receivable resulting from the Company’s performance under its take-or-pay supply contract. Total liabilities were $23,090,831$25,102,651 at March 31,June 30, 2016, compared to $24,057,762 at December 31, 2015. The increase in liabilities was driven primarily by the increase in the outstanding balances of the Series 2023 and Series A PIK Notes.

19

Table Of Contents

 

ISSUANCE OF CONVERTIBLE DEBT

 

The Company raised $23 million of financing through theFor information with respect to issuance of two seriesconvertible debt, see Note 7 of Paid-In-Kind (“PIK”)-Election Convertible Notes in 2013 and 2014, with key terms highlighted in the table below:

Key Terms

 

Series 2023 Notes

 

Series A Notes

Inception Date

 

08/05/2013

 

11/03/2014

Cash Received

 

$10,500,000

 

$12,500,000

Principal (Initial Liability)

 

$10,500,000

 

$19,848,486

Maturity (Term)

 

10 years, but is mandatorily convertible after 1 year if the market price of the Company’s stock exceeds the conversion price of the note

 

4 years, but may range between 2 years to the full maturity of the Series 2023 Notes, depending on whether a Specified Event occurs and/or an Extension Option is elected (see below for further details)

Exercise Price

 

$1.40 at inception, adjusted downward based on anti-dilution provisions/downround protection

 

$0.92 at inception, adjusted downward based on anti-dilution provisions; also may be reduced by $0.10 based if Extension Option is elected (see below)

Stated Interest

 

10% per annum, due semiannually

 

10% per annum, due semiannually, may be reduced to 1% if Specified Event (see below) occurs

Derivative Liability

 

$2,055,000 established at inception due to existence of anti-dilution provisions; revalued every quarter using Monte Carlo model

 

$9,212,285 established at inception due to existence of anti-dilution provisions/downround protection; revalued every quarter using Monte Carlo model

Series A Notes

On November 3, 2014 (“Issue Date”), the Company issued, in a private placement pursuant to investment agreements, $19,848,486 principal amount of 10% PIK-Election Convertible Notes due 2018 ("Series A Notes") in exchange for $12,500,000 in cash and the cancellation of previously-issued warrants held by one investor.

Below are key terms of the Series A Notes:

Maturity- November 3, 2018, provided that the Stated Maturity Date may be extended to November 3, 2019 at the option of the Company (the “Extension Option”) if (i) the Company has delivered written notice of its exercise of the Extension Option to the Holder not more than ninety (90) nor less than thirty (30) days prior to November 3, 2018 and (ii) the Company has delivered a certificate, dated as of November 3, 2018, certifying that no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing; provided, further that the Stated Maturity Date shall be extended to the maturity date of the Series 2023 Notes or any Replacement Financing, as applicable, upon the occurrence of a Specified Event (“Specified Extension”).

Exercise Price- initially $0.92 per share and will be (i) adjusted from time to time pursuant anti-dilution provisions and (ii) reduced by $0.10 per share if the Company elects to exercise its Extension Option.

Stated Interest: 10% payable semiannually in arrears,provided that the interest rate shall be reduced to 1% per annum on the principal amount of the Note upon the occurrence of the Specified Event, as defined below.

Specified Event- means the event that may occur after thesecond anniversary of the Issuer Date if: (i) any amounts under the Series 2023 Notes or any Replacement Financing are outstanding, (ii) the VWAP for the preceding 30 consecutive Trading Days as determined by the Board of Directors of the Issuer in good faith is in excess of the Exercise Price, (iii) the closing Market Price of the Common Stock is in excess of the Exercise Price on the date immediately preceding the date on which the Specified Event occurs, (iv) no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing and (v) the Issuer has delivered a certificate to each holder of Series A Notes certifying that the conditions set forth in clauses (i) through (iv) above have been met.

Extension Option- If stock price is lower than current exercise price ($0.92) prior to the stated maturity (November 3, 2018), then the Company can elect an Extension Option, whereby the maturity is extended by one year (see Maturity definition), but with a reduction in exercise price by $0.10.

Liquidated Damages- The company is required to pay the noteholders 1% of the principal amount of the Series A Notes if a Registration statement is not filed and effective within 90 days of the inception date (and further damages for every 30 days thereafter). The Company has accrued $200,000 as Other Expense as of December 31, 2014 due to a delay in such filing.

The number of shares issuable under the Notes may be affected by the anti-dilution provisions of the Notes. The antidilition provisions adjust the Exercise Price of the Notes in the event of stock dividends and splits, issuance below the market price of the Common Stock, issuances below the conversion price of the Notes, pro rata distribution of assets, rights plans, tender offers, and exchange offers.

Series 2023 Notes

In August 2013, the Company received $10,500,000 of financing through the private placement of 10% mandatory convertible Notes due 2023 ("Series 2023 Notes"). The principal amount of the Notes is due on maturity. The Company can elect to pay semi-annual interest on the Series 2023 Notes with additional PIK Notes containing the same terms as the Series 2023 Notes, except interest will accrue from issuance of such notes. The Company can also elect to pay interest in cash. In February 2016, the Company issued $638,141 in additional PIK Notes to pay semi-annual interest due February 1, 2016. In February 2015 and August 2015, the Company issued $578,813 and $607,753, respectively,Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in additional PIK Notes to the holders to pay the semi-annual interest. In February 2014 and August 2014, the Company issued $525,000 and $551,250, respectively, in additional PIK Notes to the holders to pay the semi-annual interest.

20

Table Of Contents

The Series 2023 Notes convert into the Company’s common stock at a conversion price of $1.40 per share, which is subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments; these anti-dilution adjustments reduced the conversion price to $1.36 after the issuance of the Series A Notes. As of issuance, principal amount of the Series 2023 Notes were convertible into 7,500,000 shares of the common stock and into 7,720,588 shares after the issuance of the Series A Notes. The holders may convert the Series 2023 Notes at any time. The Series 2023 Notes are mandatorily convertible after one year when the weighted average trading price of a share of the common stock for the preceding ten trading days is in excess of the conversion price. The Series 2023 Notes contain customary representations and warranties and several covenants. The proceeds are being used for general corporate purposes. No broker was used and no commission was paid in connection with the sale of the Series 2023 Notes.this Quarterly Report.

 

Off-Balance Sheet ArrangementsOFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

There are no off-balance sheet arrangements between the Company and any other entityentities that have, or are reasonable likely to have, a current or future effect on our financial condition or changes in our financial condition, revenues, or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that iswould be material to investors.

 

The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as of March 31,June 30, 2016 that require us to make future cash payments:

 

 

Payment due by period

  

Payment due by period

 
 

Total

  

< 1 year

  

1 - 3 years

  

Total

  

< 1 year

  

1 - 3 years

 

Contractual Obligations:

                        

Rent obligations

 $118,179  $118,179  $--  $78,783  $78,783  $- 0 - 

Total

 $118,179  $118,179  $--  $78,783  $78,783  $- 0 - 

  

ITEMITEM 3.     QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

We have no exposure to fluctuations in interest rates, foreign currencies, or other factors.

 

ITITEMEM 4.     CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

As required by Rule 13a-15(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”), our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the fiscal quarter covered by this quarterly report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) were, as of the end of the fiscal quarter covered by this quarterly report, effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

As required by Rule 13a-15(d) under the Exchange Act, our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated our internal controls over financial reporting to determine whether any changes occurred during the quarter covered by this quarterly report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. Based on that evaluation, there has been no such change during the quarter covered by this report.

 

 
2122

Table Of Contents
 

 

PARTPARTII.OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1.     LEGALLEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

As of the date of this report, there is no pending or threatened litigation. We may become involved in or subject to, routine litigation, claims, disputes, proceedings and investigations in the ordinary course of business, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, cash flows or results of operations.

 

ITEM 1A.  RISKRISK FACTORS.

 

Except for the below, there were no additions or material changes to the Company’s risk factors disclosed in Item 1A of Part I in the Company’s 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

ITEM 2.     UNREGISTEREDUNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

 

None.On June 24, 2016, the Company entered into investment agreements for the sale of Units at $.15 per Unit. Each Unit consisted of one share of Common Stock and one five-year warrant to purchase 0.3 share of Common Stock. 3.33 Warrants can be exercised to acquire one whole share of Common Stock for $0.25.

A total of 10,933,333 Units were sold in the offering for an aggregate of $1,640,000. There were 15 purchasers of the Units. The purchasers included John Levy and Robert Betz, directors of the Company, each of whom invested $50,000, and three funds managed by David Taft, a director of the Company. The funds invested a total of $200,000.

In connection with the Offering, the Company entered into registration rights agreements with each of the purchasers.

The Company, has an option to acquire the warrants; provided, that, the following conditions are met: (a) the average VWAP for the 20 consecutive trading days immediately preceding the date on which the call notice is given is equal or greater than $.60 and (b) a registration statement covering the resale of shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants is effective.

The sale of the unit was exempt under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933

 

ITEM 3.     DEFAULTSDEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

 

None

 

ITEM 4.     MINEMINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

 

The information concerning mine safety violations or other regulatory matters required by Section 1503(a) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and this Item is included in Exhibit 95 to this Form 10-Q.

 

ITEM 5.     OTHEROTHER INFORMATION

 

None.The 2016 Annual Meeting of Shareholders will be held on December 7, 2016.

 

 
2223

Table Of Contents
 

 

ITEM 6.     EXHIBITSEXHIBITS

 

(a)     Exhibits.

 

The following exhibits are included in this report:

 

Exhibit

Number

Description of Exhibit

10.12016 Long-Term Incentive Plan

31.1

Certification pursuant to Rule 13a-14 of the Securities Exchange Act, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, of the Principal Executive Officer

  

31.2

Certification pursuant to Rule 13a-14 of the Securities Exchange Act, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, of the Principal Financial Officer

  

32.1

Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, of the Principal Executive Officer

  

32.2

Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, of the Principal Financial Officer

  

95

Mine Safety Disclosure

101.INS

XBRL Instance

  

101.SCH

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema

  

101.CAL

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation

  

101.DEF

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition

  

101.LAB

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels

  

101.PRE

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation

  

XBRL

Information is furnished and not filed or a part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, is deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise is not subject to liability under these sections.

 

 
2324

Table Of Contents
 

 

SSIGNATURESIGNATURES

 

In accordance with 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.

 

  

APPLIED MINERALS, INC.

   

Dated: May 16,August 15, 2016

 

/s/ ANDRE ZEITOUN

  

By: Andre Zeitoun

  

Chief Executive Officer

   

Dated: May 16,August 15, 2016

 

/s/ CHRISTOPHER T. CARNEY

  

By: Christopher T. Carney

  

Chief Financial Officer

 

25

24