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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 20-F
ANNUAL REPORT FISCAL 2003 ENDED 12/31/2003
[ ] REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g)OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
[ ] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003
OR
[X] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from 8/31/2003 to12/31/2003
SEC File Number: 000-29610
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Canada
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
65 Queen Street West, Suite 810, P.O. Box 67, Toronto ,Ontario, Canada M5H 2M5
(Address of principal executive offices)
Securities to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
None
Securities to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Common Shares, without par value
(Title of Class)
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: None
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer's classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report. 57,160,043
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 12 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 ninety days. Yesxxx No ___
Indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow: Item 17xxx Item 18 ___
Page 1 of 42
Index to Exhibits on Page 21
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
TRANSITIONAL ANNUAL REPORT
FOUR-MONTH FISCAL PERIOD ENDED 12/31/2003
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction 3
PART I
Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisors 4
Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable 4
Item 3. Key Information 4
Item 4. Information on the Company 4
Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects 4
Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees 18
Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions 18
Item 8. Financial Information 18
Item 9. The Offer and Listing 19
Item 10. Additional Information 19
Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 19
Item 12. Description of Securities Other Than Equity Securities 19
PART II
Item 13. Default, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies 19
Item 14. Material Modifications to the Rights of
Security Holders and Use of Proceeds 19
Item 15. Controls and Procedures 19
Item 16. Reserved 19
Item 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert 19
Item 16B. Code of Ethics 19
Item 16C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services 19
Item 16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees 19
Item 16E. Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and
Affiliated Purchasers 19
PART III
Item 17. Financial Statements 20
Item 18. Financial Statements 20
Item 19. Exhibits 21
Financial Statements 22
INTRODUCTION
Desert Sun Mining Corp. was continued on 3/20/2003 under the Canada Business Corporations Act and is now organized under the laws of Canada. In this Annual Report, the “Company”, “we”, “our”, and “us”, refer to Desert Sun Mining Corp. and its subsidiaries collectively (unless the context otherwise requires). Summary discussions of documents referred to in this Annual Report may not be complete, and we refer you to the actual documents for more complete information. Our principal corporate offices are located at 65 Queen Street West, Suite 810, P.O. Box 67, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5H 2M5; our telephone number is 416-861-0341.
BUSINESS OF DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
Desert Sun Mining Corp. is a mineral company engaged directly, and indirectly through subsidiaries, in the acquisition and exploration of mineral properties. The Company's primary property is the Jacobina Mine Property located in the state of Bahia, in northeastern Brazil. In August 2003, the Company completed a formal bankable/economic/legal feasibility study. Effective February 2004, the Company changed its financial year end from August 31st to December 31st to coincide with the year end of its subsidiary Jacobina Mineracao e Comercio. In July 2004, the Company received all operating and environmental permits required to re-start operations at the Jacobina Mine. In August 2004, the common shares began trading on the American Stock Exchange. In October 2004, Bruce Humphrey was appointed President, CEO, and Director of the Company.
FINANCIAL AND OTHER INFORMATION
In this Annual Report, unless otherwise specified, all dollar amounts are expressed in Canadian Dollars (“CDN$” or “$”). The Government of Canada permits a floating exchange rate to determine the value of the Canadian Dollar against the U.S. Dollar (US$).
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Annual Report on Form 20-F contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, principally in ITEM #4, “Information on the Company” and ITEM #5, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”. These statements may be identified by the use of words like “plan”, “expect”, “aim,” “believe”, “project”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “estimate”, “will”, “should”, “could” and similar expressions in connection with any discussion, expectation, or projection of future operating or financial performance, events or trends. In particular, these include statements about the Company’s strategy for growth, property exploration, mineral prices, future performan ce or results of current or anticipated mineral production, interest rates, foreign exchange rates, and the outcome of contingencies, such as acquisitions and/or legal proceedings.
Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and expectations of future events that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual future results and trends may differ materially from historical results or those projected in any such forward-looking statements depending on a variety of factors, including, among other things, the factors discussed in this Annual Report under ITEM #3, “Key Information, Risk Factors” and factors described in documents that we may furnish from time to time to the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements because of new information, future events or otherwise.
PART I
ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISORS
--- No Disclosure Necessary ---
ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
--- No Disclosure Necessary ---
ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION
ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
Incorporated by reference to Form 20-F Annual Report for Fiscal Year ended 8/31/2003
ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
The following discussion for the fiscal periods ended 12/31/2003, 8/31/2003, 8/31/2002, and 8/31/2001 should be read in conjunction with the financial statements of the Company and the notes thereto.
Overview
Desert Sun Mining Corp. (“Desert Sun” or the “Company”) was originally incorporated (Fredonia Oil & Gas Ltd.) under the laws of British Columbia on 5/21/1980. In 1984, the Company changed its name to Consolidated Fredonia Oil & Gas Ltd., in 1986 to Sun River Gold Corp. and in 1991 to Yellow Point Mining Corp. On 8/26/1994, the Company changed its name to Desert Sun Mining Corp. and on 3/20/2003, Desert Sun was continued under the Canada Business Corporations Act. The common shares of Desert Sun began trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange on 7/23/2003 under the trading symbol DSM. The common shares of Desert Sun began trading on the American Stock Exchange on 8/11/2004 under the trading symbol DEZ. The common shares are also quoted over-the-counter on the Berlin and Frankfurt Stock Exchanges under the symbol DRT. Desert Sun is engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral properties for the purpose of producing precious metals. The Company’s principal asset is its 100% interest in the Jacobina gold property located in the State of Bahia, in northeastern Brazil. The Jacobina property is currently at the development stage.
On 1/8/2002, Desert Sun entered into a letter of intent with Valencia Ventures Inc. (formerly William Multi-Tech Inc. and before that William Resources Inc.) (“Valencia”) whereby Valencia agreed to option its Jacobina gold property in Brazil to the Company. On 5/17/2002, the Company entered into a revised agreement with Valencia, whereby Valencia granted to the Company the option to earn a 51% interest in its wholly owned subsidiary, Jacobina Mineração e Comércio S.A. (“JMC”), which owns the mineral rights, mines and a 3,000 tonne per day plant located on the Jacobina Mine gold property in Brazil. To earn the 51% interest in JMC, the Company agreed to pay Valencia $25,000 upon the closing of the transaction and spend US$2 million exploring the Jacobina property prior to 12/31/2004. On 9/2/2002, the Company entered into a Memorandum of Underst anding (“MOU”), whereby it could acquire the remaining 49% interest in the mine and related mineral concessions by making an option payment of $100,000 at the time of execution of the MOU and paying a further $5 million within 90 days of earning the initial 51% interest. In August 2003, the Company acquired and cancelled an outstanding 1.7% Net Smelter Return royalty covering the entire Bahia Gold Belt, which hosts the Jacobina mine. Desert Sun, on behalf of JMC, paid $200,000 to buy back this royalty. The purchase price was allocated towards the Company’s earn-in on the property. In September 2003, Desert Sun confirmed that it had spent the necessary US$2 million in exploration costs and exercised its option to acquire the remaining 49% interest in the Jacobina property from Valencia.
The purchase price of $5 million was satisfied through a cash payment of $2 million and the issuance of 1,851,852 common shares to Valencia at a price of $1.62 per share. As a result of the exercise of this option, Desert Sun owns 100% of the Jacobina property subject to a 5% net profit interest in favor of a third party and a 1% royalty payable to the Brazilian government.
Following the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders in January 2004, McGovern, Hurley, Cunningham, LLP were named as independent auditors for Fiscal 2004 Ending December 31, 2004.
The Company's last fiscal year has ended on August 31st, however it has changed its yearend to December 31st to match that of its principal subsidiaries in Brazil so its next fiscal yearend will be December 31, 2004.
In July 2004, the Company received all operating and environmental permits required to re-start operations at the Jacobina Mine. In October 2004, Bruce Humphrey was appointed President, CEO, and Director of the Company.
Outlook
Proceeding in line with the recommendations of the SNC Lavalin Feasibility Study completed in September 2003, Desert Sun’s short-term plans comprise the expansion, refurbishment and re-commissioning of the existing plant at the Jacobina Mine to process 4,200 tonnes per day or 1,512,000 tonnes per year, with mill feed being sourced from the Joao Belo mining area (now referred to as the Jacobina Mine). The Company is implementing the feasibility study according to the schedule developed by SNC-Lavalin and anticipates full-production rate milling in 2005.
Accounting Standards
Desert Sun follows Canadian generally accepted accounting policies. In line with accepted industry practice, the Company has adopted the policy of deferring property specific acquisition and exploration costs. Deferred costs relating to properties that are relinquished, or where continued exploration is deemed inappropriate are written off in the year such assessment is made. If Desert Sun adopted a policy of expensing all exploration costs, the Company’s asset base, shareholders’ equity, and loss from operations would be materially different.
Effective 9/1/2002, Desert Sun adopted the new CICA standard for accounting for stock-based compensation. Desert Sun applied the pro forma disclosure provisions of the new standard to options granted to directors, officers and employees on or after 9/1/2002, and applied the fair value method for options granted as compensation for services rendered to the Company other than in the course of employment. For options granted in fiscal years beginning on or after 1/1/2004 the CICA Handbook now requires that compensation for option awards to employees be recognized in the financial statements at fair value. The Company, as permitted by CICA Handbook Section 3870, has adopted this section prospectively for new option awards granted on or after 9/1/2003. Accordingly, a fair value compensation expense would have been recorded for the four months ended 12/31/2003 for awards grant ed in this period, but for the fact that the options only vested upon receipt of shareholder approval for the revised stock option plan, on 1/21/2004 (see note 5(b) to the financial statements).
Exploration Update
Feasibility Study (completed):
a) The SNC Lavalin Feasibility study confirmed the economics of bringing the Jacobina mine back into production and outlined a proven and probable mineral reserve of 10,746,000 tonnes grading 2.20 g Au/t containing 758,600 ounces of gold.
b) Based on the SNC Feasibility, the mine can be in full production by 2005, producing at about 106,000 ounces per year at an average cash cost of US$189 per ounce. The Capital Cost (net of preproduction cash flow) is estimated at US$30.7 million; with the After Tax Internal Rate of Return of 39.2% at US$350 per oz. gold price.
Exploration:
a) The Company’s work to date has outlined an extensive mineralized belt, known as the “Bahia Gold Belt”, which extends over 155 kilometers in strike length and has numerous garimpos (free miner workings). In September 2003, as a result of this work and the positive feasibility study, Desert Sun initiated a major expansion of the exploration program at a cost of US$5 million. This program, which includes 41,500 metres of drilling, is focusing on upgrading present inferred mineral resources to indicated mineral resources within the mine area; defining additional inferred mineral resources down-dip and along strike of known resources in mine areas; and expanding drilling on targets outlined earlier at Morro do Vento, Joao Belo Sul, Serra do Córrego and Campo Limpo.
b) Drilling is in progress at Canavieiras, Joao Belo Sul and Morro do Vento.
c) Regional exploration is in progress on the major extension to the Serra do Córrego Formation and on the Pindobaçú Outlier area.
d) Assaying for the program is carried out by Lakefield Geosol, an ISO 9001, 2000 certified laboratory based in Brazil, using fire assay on 50 gram pulps. Check assaying is routinely carried out, by ALS Chemex in Vancouver, on 10% of sample pulps and 5% of sample rejects. Security is maintained at the core logging and sampling facility.
e) Dr. Bill Pearson, P.Geo. is the Qualified Person as defined under National Instrument 43-101 responsible for the scientific/technical work on the program.
Results of Operations
Four Month Fiscal Period Ended 12/31/2003
On a consolidated basis, Desert Sun recorded a net loss from operations of ($1,042,629) in the four months ended 12/31/2003, or ($0.02), compared with a net loss in the first quarter of Fiscal 2003 ended 11/30/2002 of ($380,000), or ($0.02). Ongoing general and administration expenses, excluding extraordinary consulting fees, performance bonuses and travel expenses not expected to be repeated, are anticipated to be in the range of $500,000 to $600,000 per quarter.
Management and administrative services, of $381,000 in the four months ended 12/31/2003 (three months ended 11/30/2002: $154,000), included directors’ fees of $12,000 and bonuses paid upon the achievement of important milestones of $180,000. Also included in the above is $38,000 paid to a company controlled by a director of Desert Sun, for administrative services including the services of the Company’s corporate secretary. The increase in management costs is in line with the growth in the Company, along with the development of the Jacobina project, with additional staff being added as well as increased time commitments by existing members since work began in earnest in September 2002.
Investor relations and shareholders information, together with Consulting fees,of $175,000 (three months ended 11/30/2002: $28,000) and $247,000 (three months ended 11/30/2002: $42,000) respectively in the four months ended 12/31/2003, relate to a sustained campaign to increase awareness of the Company and its project both in North America and Europe. Activities included attendance at trade shows, internet based advertising, and reports in the printed media. A substantial portion of the consulting fees is not expected to reoccur in future quarters. Consulting fees in 2002 included $42,000, calculated to be the fair value of the options granted to consultants in that period.
Travel and entertainment costs amounting to $121,000 (three months ended 11/30/2002: $65,000) are due principally to the investor relations and financing activities of management as they seek to educate investors about developments at the Company and raise the necessary finance for its ongoing activities.
Office and miscellaneous costs of $104,000, compares favorably with the level of expenditure in the first quarter of Fiscal 2002, of $100,000, especially considering the ongoing expansion of the Toronto office. Desert Sun shares its premises with other companies that have common directors and as a result, the costs related to the expansion of the Toronto office have been reduced as the Company is reimbursed by these companies for their proportional share of the expenses.
Fiscal 2003 Ended 8/31/2003 vs. Fiscal 2002
Desert Sun achieved major milestones during Fiscal 2003. We are on target to become a gold producer by 2005, have announced exciting new exploration discoveries, graduated to the Toronto Stock Exchange and provided over 300% return to our shareholders (August 2002 to August 2003). Major successes during 2003 include:
a. Completion a bankable feasibility study and start of construction to
re-activate the mines at Jacobina;
b. Completion of the acquisition of Jacobina Mines and the Bahia Gold Belt;
c. Making a major new discovery at the Morro do Vento target;
d. Raising over $40 million;
e. Obtaining a listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange; and
f. Addition of a full-time Chief Operating Officer in 2004.
We believe the 110 kilometre-long Bahia Gold Belt, controlled 100% by the Company, which contains a significant resource on less than 10% of its length, in an area called the Jacobina Mines, is grossly under-explored and has the potential to host significant economic open pit tonnage along its entire length. We identified five key targets in 2002 for initial exploration. The first three targets drilled: Serra do Córrego, João Belo Sul, and Morro do Vento, all have produced encouraging results; the other two targets are being drilled. The Company has six drills active on the Belt and we hope to have up to ten drills on exploration in 2004. The exploration budget for Calendar 2004 is US$5 million.
The Company’s main goal over the next year is to significantly increase the reserves in the Jacobina mine area.
The Jacobina Mines, part of the Bahia Gold Belt, comprise three separate mines and a processing plant that were in production between 1981 to 1998, when over 700,000 ounces of gold was recovered. The mines were put on standby due to weak gold prices and lack of capital.
Desert Sun commissioned SNC Lavalin, an internationally recognized engineering firm, to complete a bankable feasibility study at the Jacobina Mines. The feasibility study established proven and probable reserves to be 10,746,000
Tones at 2.20 grams of gold per tonne containing 758,000 ounces of gold. The objective of the feasibility was to determine the capital and operating costs to reactivate the existing mines and plant and establish the economics of these mines at a US$325 gold price and using modern mining and processing technologies. In addition to SNC Lavalin, Dynatec was subcontracted for the mining portion and Micon International reviewed the ore resources. The results of the feasibility study indicate that the mine can be reactivated for net capital of approximately US$30 million and can produce an average of 106,000 ounces per year at a cash cost of US$189 per ounce. The cash cost includes all mine development. The after tax IRR (Internal Rate of Return), using a US$325 gold price, is 31%.
The Company has a strong balance sheet with $32 million in cash and no debt as of 12/31/2003. The capital in the Company will allow us to conduct our exploration and start reactivating the Jacobina Mines. Between June and December 2004, the Company will require additional capital to complete the construction of the mine. By 2005, the Company hopes to be in full production and hopes to generate $15 to $20 million in free cash flow per year from the operation.
The key to our success has been a strong board of directors and management team. Dr. William Pearson, P.Geo., has been instrumental as our VP Exploration and a member of the Board in reinterpreting the exploration potential of the Bahia Gold Belt and major discoveries on the Belt. In operations, Kurt Menchen, a Brazilian mining engineer, our VP Operations for Brazil, is a 20-year veteran of Jacobina, knows all aspects of the mine, and is excellent at local labor and community relations and dealings with all levels of government. We have further strengthened our team by acquiring one of the best mining engineers and operators in Brazil today, Peter Tagliamonti, as the Chief Operating Officer and VP Operations for the Company. Peter has worked in Brazil since 1997 in mining and joined us in March 2004. He will initially be based in Brazil to manage the construction a nd startup of Jacobina and will move to Toronto once the mine is at full production. Peter’s 20 years plus of international hands-on experience in mine operations and mine construction will be invaluable to the Company’s future success as a producer.
In September 2003, the Company exercised its January 2002 option to acquire 100% of the Bahia Gold Belt and the Jacobina Mines, after spending US$2 million on exploration and by paying Valencia Ventures Inc., $5 million in cash and common shares. This was a major milestone for the Company.
Upon completion of a $2 million equity private placement in late August 2002, the Company undertook a Phase I exploration and drilling campaign. The objective of this program was to gain further understanding of the Jacobina property, its geology and mineralization. In Phase I eight areas were selected for drilling; three areas around the existing mines and five areas in extensions of the favorable stratigraphy. Drilling in Phase I was completed in early January 2003 and comprised 12 holes, totaling 2,250 metres. Based on the encouraging results of its Phase I program, which indicated that there is extensive gold mineralization over a 10 kilometre strike length, in late March 2003 the Company commenced a Phase II exploration program. The Phase II program initially included 8,000 metres of diamond drilling, geophysical surveys and regional exploration.
In May 2003, the Company instructed SNC-Lavalin, Dynatec Corporation and Micon International Limited (“Micon”) to expand the scope of the previously commissioned pre-feasibility study at the Jacobina mine to a full Feasibility Study as defined under National Instrument 43-101. In September 2003, SNC-Lavalin confirmed the economic viability of re-opening the Jacobina Mine. The Company’s work to date has outlined an extensive mineralized belt, known as the “Bahia Gold Belt”, which extends over 110 kilometres in strike length and has numerous garimpos (free miner workings). In September 2003, as a result of these encouraging results and the positive feasibility study, the Company initiated a major expansion of the exploration program at a budgeted cost of US$5 million. This program, to include 41,500 metres of drilling, will focus on upgrading pres ent inferred mineral resources to indicated mineral resources in mine areas (João Belo, Itapicuru (Basal Reef ) and Canavieiras); define additional inferred mineral resources down-dip and along strike of known resources in mine areas; and expand drilling on targets outlined in Phase I program (Morro do Vento, João Belo Sul, Serra do Córrego and Campo Limpo).
On a consolidated basis, Desert Sun recorded a net loss from operations of ($2,254,000) in the fiscal year ended 8/31/2003, or ($0.09) per share. Although not comparable, as the management team and staff were only assembled and work only began in earnest on the Jacobina concession in September 2002, the net loss in Fiscal 2002 amounted to ($125,000), or ($0.01) per share. In Fiscal 2003, Desert Sun invested $3.1 million in the exploration and development of the Jacobina property, compared with $36,000 during the previous fiscal year.
Management and administrative services amounted to $717,000 in Fiscal 2003, versus $33,000 last fiscal year. Management fees included bonuses that were paid upon the achievement of important milestones, totaling some $318,000 in Fiscal 2003. Investor relations and shareholders information expenses were $389,000 this fiscal year versus $2,000 last fiscal year. Desert Sun undertook a sustained investor relations campaign to increase awareness of the Company and its project. Activities included attendance at trade shows, Internet based advertising, and reports in the printed media; while substantial costs were incurred on related activities in Europe. Travel and entertainment costs amounted to $298,000 versus $69,000 last year, due principally to the investor relations and financing activities of management as they sought to educate investors about developments at the Company and raise the necessary finance for its ongoing activities. Consulting fees and Transfer agent/listing fees/filing fees of $153,000 (2002: $27,000) and $167,000 (2002: $15,000), related respectively to the various private placements and related shareholder communications undertaken by the Company, and to the listing of Desert Sun on the Toronto Stock Exchange.
Fiscal 2002 Ended 8/31/2002 vs. Fiscal 2001/Fiscal 2000
The Company was relatively inactive during Fiscal 2002/2001/2000 until May 2002 when the Company signed its first Jacobina Mine Property option agreement. There was no operating revenue during these periods. Expenses were $225,620, $66,587, and $85,227, for Fiscal 2002/2001/2000, respectively. The increase in expenses occurred primarily in the fourth quarter as the Company’s activities and management were reconstructed, and the Jacobina property option acquired.
For the year ended 8/31/2002, the Company invested $35,836 in mineral properties, all of it relating to the Jacobina property. The Company wrote-off its investment in mineral properties relating to the Tubutama Borate project in Mexico, incurring a non-cash charge of $23,249 during the year.
Net (Losses) were ($125,421), ($38,569), and ($68,822) for Fiscal 2002/2001/2000, respectively. The Net Loss per Share was ($0.01), ($0.00), and ($0.01) for Fiscal 2002/2001/2000, respectively.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Four-Month Fiscal Period Ended December 31, 2003
As at 12/31/2003, Desert Sun had cash and equivalents totaling $31.8 million and no debt. The Company has not yet begun production on any of its properties, and therefore does not yet have any cash flow from operations. The principal source of cash for use in operations has been the issue of common shares.
In September 2003, the Company issued 8,115,000 common shares at a price of $1.38 per share for total gross proceeds of $11.2 million pursuant to an underwriting agreement with Sprott Securities Inc., Griffiths McBurney & Partners, Octagon Capital Corporation and Pacific International Securities Inc.
On 11/20/2003 Desert Sun confirmed that it had raised a further $20 million through the issuance of 11,764,707 units at a price of $1.70 per unit. Each unit consisted of one common share and one-half of one common share purchase warrant. Each whole warrant is exercisable at a price of $2.50 for a period of five years. These warrants trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol DSM.WT. The underwriting syndicate for the offering was led by Sprott Securities Inc. and included Griffiths McBurney & Partners and CIBC World Markets Inc.
The proceeds from these offerings are being used to fund the development of the Jacobina project in Brazil and for working capital purposes.
In the four months ended 12/31/2003, Desert Sun invested $6.6 million in the acquisition, exploration and development of the Jacobina property, including $5 million to acquire the remaining 49% interest in the Jacobina property from Valencia Ventures Inc., compared with $438,000 during the first three months of the previous fiscal year. The purchase price of $5 million was satisfied through a cash payment of $2 million and the issuance of 1,851,852 common shares at a price of $1.62 per share.
Exploration property, plant and equipment may be summarized as follows:
Expenditure
Balance during the Balance
8/31/2003 period 12/31/2003
Acquisition costs $325,000 $5,000,000 $5,325,000
Feasibility study expenses 627,000 153,000 780,000
Drilling and assaying 832,000 282,000 1,114,000
Geological and geophysical 379,000 203,000 582,000
Permitting 32,000 12,000 44,000
Site labor and consumables 706,000 764,000 1,470,000
Transport, travel and consumables 246,000 81,000 327,000
Mine development nil 103,000 103,000
$3,147,000 $6,598,000 $9,745,000
Fiscal 2003 Ended August 31, 2003
In August 2002, the Company issued five million Special Warrants through private placement for gross proceeds of $2,000,000. Each Special Warrant was convertible, for no additional consideration, into one common share of the Company and $0.60 of a non-transferable common share purchase warrant which entitled the holder of each full purchase warrant to acquire one additional common share of the Company of $0.50 prior to 8/3/2004. In September 2002, the Special Warrants were converted to common shares.
In February 2003, the Company completed a private placement of 4,701,065 units at $1.00 per unit, raising $4.7 million; each unit consisted of one common share and half a warrant, which entitled the holder of each full warrant to acquire one additional common share of the Company at $1.25 per share until 8/28/2004.
In July 2003, the Company completed a private placement of 4,545,455 units at $1.10 per unit, raising approximately $5 million. Each unit consisted of one common share and one-half of one common share purchase warrant. Each whole common share purchase warrant entitles the holder to purchase an additional common share at a price of $1.35 until July 2005.
During Fiscal 2003, the Company raised $350,450 from the exercise of share purchase warrants and $272,765 from the exercise of stock options.
Management believes it has sufficient capital to fund planned operations during Fiscal 2004.
In the August 2002 private placement, there were 3 U.S. investors who participated for a total of 1,700,000 Special Warrants or $680,000. The Company relied on an exemption provided for “accredited investors” as defined under Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
In the February 2003 private placement, there were 6 U.S. investors who participated for a total of 1,741,066 Units or $1,741,066. The Company relied on an exemption provided for “accredited investors” as defined under Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
In the July 2003 private placement, there were 8 U.S. investors who participated for a total of 1,350,000 Units or $1,485,000. The Company relied on an exemption provided for “accredited investors” as defined under Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
In the September 2003 private placement, there were 4 U.S. investors who participated for a total of 3,259,500 common shares or $4,498,100. The Company relied on an exemption provided for “accredited investors” as defined under Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
In the November 2003 private placement, there were 12 U.S. investors who participated for a total of 3,320,000 Units or $5,644,000. The Company relied on an exemption provided for “accredited investors” as defined under Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
Cash Used by Fiscal 2003 Operating Activities totaled ($1,558,014), including the ($2,254,073) Net Loss; significant adjustments included $248,874 in non-cash compensation expenses and $444,233 in net changes in non-cash working capital items. Cash Used in Fiscal 2003 Investing Activities was ($3,154,069), principally for exploration at the Jacobina Mine Property. Cash Provided by Fiscal 2003 Financing Activities was $9,809,405, from the aforementioned equity issuances.
As the Company had not begun production on any of its properties, the Company does not have any cash flow from operations. The Company receives cash for use in operations from issuing common shares and sales of selected assets
Fiscal 2002 Ended 8/31/2002 and Fiscal 2001
The Company had working capital of $1,760,482 on 8/31/2002.
The Company had working capital of ($175,096) on 8/31/2001.
The Company had working capital of ($133,922) on 8/31/2000.
Cash Used by Fiscal 2002 Operating Activities totaled ($296,208) including the ($125,421) Net Loss; significant adjustments included ($100,199) in debt forgiveness related to old liabilities from prior businesses for which no claim was being made, a $23,249 write-off of mineral property, and ($100,233) in net changes in non-cash working capital items. Cash Used in Fiscal 2002 Investing Activities was ($35,836) on the Jacobina Mine Property. Cash Provided by Fiscal 2002 Financing Activities was $2,067,190, primarily from the issuance of 5,000,000 Special Warrants.
Cash Used by Fiscal 2001 Operating Activities totaled ($4,967) including the ($38,569) Net Loss; significant adjustments included ($28,018) in debt forgiveness related to old liabilities from prior business for which no claim was being made and $60,021 in net changes in non-cash working capital items. Cash Used in Fiscal 2001 Investing Activities was ($4,204). Cash Provided by Fiscal 2001 Financing Activities was $nil.
5.E. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements.
5.F. Tabular disclosure of contractual obligations.
--- No Disclosure Necessary ---
Critical Accounting Policies
Management is required to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. On a regular basis, we evaluate our estimates and assumptions. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.
The significant US GAAP versus Canadian GAAP accounting policies that are most critical to aid in fully understanding and evaluating reported financial results include the expensing of mineral property acquisition/exploration costs until a property has demonstrated proven reserves and production is anticipated.
US GAAP versus Canadian GAAP
Exploration Stage Property Costs
Exploration property costs and related exploration expenditures are accounted for in accordance with Canadian GAAP as disclosed in Note 2 of the 8/31/2003 audited financial statements. For US GAAP purposes, the Company expenses, as incurred, the exploration costs and option fees relating to unproven mineral properties. When proven and probable reserves are determined for property and a feasibility study prepared, subsequent exploration and development costs of the property would be capitalized. The capitalized costs of such properties would then be measured periodically, for recoverability of carrying values.
Non-Cash Compensation Expenses
During Fiscal 2003 Ended 8/31/2003, under Canadian GAAP, the Company applied the intrinsic value-based method of accounting for stock-based compensation awards to employees (including Directors and officers) and accordingly no compensation cost was recognized. Had stock-based compensation for 1,885,997 options granted to employees under the Plan since 9/9/2002 been determined on the basis of fair value at the date of the grant in accordance with the fair value method of accounting for stock-based compensation, the Company’s pro forma net loss and loss per share for the fiscal year ended 8/31/2003 would have been as follows:
Net loss | Net loss per share | |
As reported | ($2,254,073) | ($0.09) |
Add: Additional stock based compensation | (463,336) | ($0.02) |
Pro forma | ($2,717,409) | ($0.11) |
The Company applies the fair value method of accounting for stock-based compensation awards to non-employees, and accordingly $248,874 was recorded as a consulting expense and contributed surplus for the 950,000 options granted to non-employees during the year ended 8/31/2003.
Under US GAAP, during the year ended 8/31/2002, the Company issued 145,000 options to non-employees that, under SFAS 123, must be recognized as a stock-based compensation expense. The fair value of these options would have been approximately $52,000. No options were issued to non-employees during the year ended 8/31/2001.
The following pro forma information presents the net loss for the year and the net loss per common share had the Company adopted SFAS 123 for all stock options issued to employees.
December 31 | August 31 | August 31 | August 31 | |
2003 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | |
Loss for the year - US GAAP | ($1,042,629) | ($5,614,609) | ($190,008) | ($ 51,113) |
Fair value of options issued to employees - US GAAP | - | (926,672) | (474,000) | (156,000) |
Pro forma loss - US GAAP | ($1,042,629) | ($6,541,281) | ($664,008) | ($207,113) |
Pro forma loss per share - US GAAP | ($0.02) | ($0.26) | ($0.04) | ($0.02) |
The fair value amounts have been determined using a Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions used for the years ended 8/31/2003, 8/31/2002 and 8/31/2001: dividend yield of 0%, expected volatility of 78% in 2003, 144% in 2002 and 116% in 2001, a risk-free interest rate of 4% and an expected life of five years.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
a. Foreign Currency and Hedging
In November 2001, the CICA issued Accounting Guideline 13, “Hedging Relationships” (“AcG 13”) which establishes new criteria for hedge accounting and will apply to all hedging relationships in effect for the Company’s years ending on or after 8/1/2003. Effective 8/1/2003, the Company will reassess all hedging relationships to determine whether the criteria are met or not and will apply the new guidance on a prospective basis. To qualify for hedge accounting, the hedging relationship must be appropriately documented at the inception of the hedge and there must be reasonable assurance, both at the inception and throughout the term of the hedge, that the hedging relationship will be effective. The Company does not currently have any hedging relationships.
b. Disposal of Long-Lived Assets and Discontinued Operations
In December 2002, the CICA issued Handbook Section 3475 for Disposal of Long-Lived Assets and Discontinued Operations with the purpose of harmonizing Canadian GAAP with US GAAP. The section is effective for disposal activities initiated by a commitment to a plan on or after May 1, 2003, with earlier adoption encouraged. The key aspects of Handbook Section 3475 are as follows:
1. a long-lived asset to be disposed of other than by sale should continue to be
classified as held and used until it is disposed of;
2. a long-lived asset can only be classified as held for sale if certain criteria
are met;
3. an asset classified as held for sale should be measured at the lower of its
carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell;
4. a loss recognized on classification of an asset as held for sale does not
include future operating losses;
5. discontinued operations are defined more broadly than previously. They
comprise dispositions where the operations and cash flows can be clearly
distinguished, operationally and for financial reporting purposes, from the
rest of the enterprise;
6. the income statement display of discontinued operations is unchanged from
previous display; and
7. various disclosures related to the disposal of long-lived assets is required.
The Company has determined that the application of Section 3475 did not have a material effect on its financial position or results of operations.
c. Accounting for Severance and Termination Benefits
In March 2003, the EIC issued EIC Abstract 134 for Accounting for Severance and Termination Benefits, that addresses various types of severance/termination benefits related to the termination of an employee’s services prior to normal retirement. The accounting treatment must be applied prospectively to exit/disposal activities initiated after 3/31/2003. This Abstract harmonizes Canadian GAAP and US GAAP.
d. Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities
In July 2002, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 146 Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities (“FAS 146”). FAS 146 addresses financial accounting and reporting for costs associated with exit or disposal activities, and is effective for exit or disposal activities initiated after 12/31/2002. FAS 146 nullifies Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 94-3 (“EITF 94-3”) Liability Recognition for Certain Employee Termination Benefits and Other Costs to Exit an Activity (including Certain costs Incurred in Restructuring). The principal difference between FAS 146 and EITF 94-3 relates to the recognition of a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity. FAS 146 requires that the cost associated with an exit or disposal
activity be recognized when the liability is incurred, whereas under EITF 94-3 the liability was recognized at the date of an entity’s commitment to an exit plan. This is substantially consistent with the CICA EIC Abstract 135, Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit and Disposal Activities (Including Costs Incurred in a Restructuring). This new guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after 12/31/2002, and will impact any exit or disposal activities the Company initiates after that date.
e. Guarantees
In November 2002, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 45, “Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others” (“FIN 45”), which requires certain disclosures to be made by a guarantor in its interim and annual financial statements for periods ending after 12/15/2002 about its obligations under guarantees. FIN 45 also requires the recognition of a liability by a guarantor at the inception of certain guarantees entered into or modified after 12/31/2002. FIN 45 requires the guarantor to recognize a liability for a non-contingent component of certain guarantees; that is, it requires the recognition of a liability for the obligation to stand ready to perform in the event that specified triggering events or conditions occur. The initial measurement of this liability is the fair value of a guarantee at inception. This is substantially consistent with the CICA Accounting Guideline AcG-14, Disclosure of Guarantees. The Company does not have any guarantees under these standards.
f. Variable Interest Entities
In January 2003, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 46 “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities” (“VIE’s”) (“FIN 46”) which requires that companies that control another entity through interests other than voting interest should consolidate the controlled entity. In the absence of clear control through a voting equity interest, a company’s exposure (variable interests) to the economic risk and the potential rewards from a VIE’s assets and activities are the best evidence of a controlling financial interest. VIE’s created after January 31, 2003 must be consolidated immediately. VIE’s existing prior to 2/1/2003 must be consolidated by the Company commencing with its first quarter 2004 financial statements. The Company has determined that it does not have any VIE’s which will require consolidation.
g. Derivatives and Hedging Activities
In April 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No, 149 “Amendment of SFAS No. 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”. SFAS 149 amends and clarifies accounting for SFAS No. 133 “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”. In particular, it clarifies under what circumstances a contract with an initial net investment meets the characteristics of a derivative as discussed in SFAS No. 133; clarifies when a derivative contains a financing component; amends the definition to conform it to the language used in the FASB Interpretation No. 45; and amends certain other existing pronouncements. This is substantially consistent with the CICA EIC Abstract 128, Accounting for Trading, Speculative or Non-Hedging Derivative Financial Instruments. SFAS No. 149 is effective for contracts entered into or modified after 6/30/2003 and for hedging relations hips designated after 6/30/2003. CICA EIC Abstract 128 is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after 7/1/2003. The adoption of these new pronouncements is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations as the Company is not involved in any hedging activities.
h. Liabilities and Equity
On 5/15/2003, the FASB issued Statement No, 150,Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of Both Liabilities and Equity. The statement establishes standards for how an issuer classifies and measures certain financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity. Generally, the Statement is effective for financial instruments entered into or modified after 5/31/2003 and is otherwise effective at the beginning of the first interim period beginning after 6/15/2003. The Company will adopt the provisions of the Statement on 9/1/2003. The Company is currently assessing the impact of the new standard.
i. Asset Retirement Obligations
In July 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 143, "Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations." This statement addresses financial accounting and reporting for obligations associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets and the associated asset retirement costs. This Statement applies to all entities. It applies to legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets that result from the acquisition, construction, development and/or the normal operation of a long-lived asset, except for certain obligations of lessees. This Statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after 6/15/2002. This is substantially consistent with the CICA Handbook Section 3110, Asset Retirement Obligations, which is effective for fiscal periods beg inning on or after 1/1/2004. The Company has determined that the application of SFAS 43 did not have a material effect on its financial position or results of operations.
j. Stock-based Employee Compensation
In December 2002, the FASB issued Statement 148 (SFAS 148), “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation – Transition and Disclosure: an amendment of FASB Statement 123” (SFAS 123), to provide alternative transition methods for a voluntary change to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. In addition, SFAS 148 amends the disclosure requirements of SFAS 123 to require prominent disclosures in annual financial statements about the method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation and the pro forma effect on reported results of applying the fair value based method for entities that use the intrinsic value method of accounting. The pro forma effect disclosures are also required to be prominently disclosed in interim period financial statements. This statement is effective for financial statements for fiscal years ending after 12/15/2002 and is effective for financial reports containing condensed financial statements for interim periods beginning after 12/15/2002, with earlier application permitted. The Company does not plan a change to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation and believes that the accompanying financial statements are consistent with the new guidance in SFAS 148.
ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT, AND EMPLOYEES
ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Incorporated by reference to Form 20-F Annual Report for Fiscal Year ended 8/31/2003
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
8.A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information
The Company's consolidated financial statements are stated in Canadian Dollars (CDN$) and are prepared in accordance with Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), the application of which, in the case of the Company, conforms in all material respects for the periods presented with United States GAAP, except as discussed in footnotes to the financial statements.
The consolidated financial statements as required under ITEM #17 are attached hereto and found immediately following the text of this Annual Report. The audit reports of McGovern Hurley Cunningham and DeVisser Gray, independent Chartered Accountants, are included herein immediately preceding the consolidated financial statements.
Un-audited Financial Statements
Four-Month Fiscal Period Ended December 31, 2003
Audited Financial Statements:
Fiscal Year 2003/2002/2001 Ended August 31st
8.A.7. Legal/Arbitration Proceedings
Under the agreement to acquire the remaining 49% of the Jacobina Mine, VVI has provided certain indemnities to the Company for liabilities outstanding at the date of acquisition. These amounts include taxes payable to the Brazilian Federal and State authorities, for which formal refinancing arrangements have now been concluded; liabilities to third parties, which are presently subject to settlement negotiations; as well as labor and health related claims by former employees, which are being contested in court. Arrangements have been made by VVI to settle all of the past taxes payable, totaling some $1.6 million, over periods of up to 15 years. A conservative estimate of the claims relating to silicosis, for the period prior to the Company’s acquisition of Jacobina, and for which VVI has indemnified the Company is US$1.6 million. It is management’s belief that the labor-related claims are substantially without merit and the Company and VVI intend to defend the actions vigorously.
Other than described above, the Directors and the management of the Company do not know of any material, active or pending, legal proceedings against them; nor is the Company involved as a plaintiff in any material proceeding or pending litigation.
Other than described above, the Directors and the management of the Company know of no active or pending proceedings against anyone that might materially adversely affect an interest of the Company.
8.B. Significant Changes
No undisclosed significant change has occurred since the date of the annual financial statements, and/or since the date of the most recent interim financial statements.
ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING
ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Incorporated by reference to Form 20-F Annual Report for Fiscal Year ended 8/31/2003
ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
--- No Disclosure Necessary ---
ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES
12.A. Debt Securities --- No Disclosure Necessary ---
12.B. Warrants and Rights --- No Disclosure Necessary ---
12.C. Other Securities --- No Disclosure Necessary ---
12.D. American Depository Shares -- No Disclosure Necessary ---
PART II
ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
--- No Disclosure Necessary ---
ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY
HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS --- No Disclosure Necessary ---
ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
ITEM 16. RESERVED
ITEM 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT
ITEM 16B. CODE OF ETHICS
Item 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTIING FEES AND SERVICES
Incorporated by reference to Form 20-F Annual Report for Fiscal Year ended 8/31/2003
ITEM 16D. EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES
--- No Disclosure Necessary ---
ITEM 16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS
--- No Disclosure Necessary ---
PART III
ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company's consolidated financial statements are stated in Canadian Dollars (CDN$) and are prepared in accordance with Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), the application of which, in the case of the Company, conforms in all material respects for the periods presented with United States GAAP, except as discussed in footnotes to the consolidated financial statements.
The consolidated financial statements as required under ITEM #17 are attached hereto and found immediately following the text of this Annual Report. The audit reports of McGovern Hurley Cunningham and DeVisser Gray, independent Chartered Accountants, are included herein immediately preceding the audited financial statements. The four-month fiscal period ended 12/31/2004 is un-audited; however, the Fiscal Years ended 8/312/2003 and 8/31/2002 are audited.
Financial Statements
Auditor's Report, dated 11/22/2003
Auditor's Report, dated 11/19/2002
Consolidated Balance Sheets at 12/31/2003, 8/31/2003 and 8/31/2002
Consolidated Statement of Shareholders’ Equity through 12/31/2003
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Deficit
for the years ended 12/31/2003, 8/31/2003, 8/31/2002, and 8/31/2001 and
cumulative from inception on 5/21/1980
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
for the years ended 12/31/2003, 8/31/2003, 8/31/2002, and 8/31/2001 and
cumulative from inception on 5/21/1980
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company has elected to provide financial statements pursuant to ITEM #17.
ITEM 19. EXHIBITS
Page
1. Articles of Incorporation/Bylaws as currently in effect:
Incorporated by reference to Form 20-F Annual Reports and Form 6-K’s
2. Instruments defining the rights of holders of equity or
debt securities being registered
--- Refer to Exhibit No. 1 ---
3. Voting Trust Agreements: No Disclosure Necessary
4. Material Contracts:
Incorporated by reference to Form 6-K’s
5. Foreign Patents: No Disclosure Necessary
6. Earnings Per Share Calculation: No Disclosure Necessary
7. Ratio of Earnings To Fixed Charges: No Disclosure Necessary
8. List of Subsidiaries:
Incorporated by reference to Form 20-F Annual Reports and Form 6-K’s
9. Statement Regarding Date of Financial Statements: No Disclosure Necessary
10. Notice Required by Rul3e 104 of Regulation BTR: No Disclosure Necessary
11. Code of Ethics as required by ITEM No. 16: No Disclosure Necessary
12: The certifications required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)........39
13. The certifications required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) and
Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code 41
14. Additional Exhibits:
Incorporated by reference to Form 20-FR Registration Statement and Form 6-K’s
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
(An Exploration Stage Company)
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 2003
(Stated in Canadian Dollars)
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Stated in Canadian Dollars)
December 31, 2003 (Unaudited) | August 31, 2003 (Audited) | August 31, 2002 (Audited) | |||
Assets | |||||
Current | |||||
Cash and equivalents | $ 31,795,919 | $ 6,832,461 | $ 1,735,139 | ||
Amounts receivable and prepaid expenses | 156,369 | 68,742 | 41,313 | ||
31,952,288 | 6,901,203 | 1,776,452 | |||
Exploration property, plant and equipment | 9,745,344 | 3,147,498 | 35,836 | ||
Equipment | 44,649 | 39,455 | - | ||
41,742,281 | 10,088,156 | 1,812,288 | |||
Liabilities | |||||
Current | |||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 52,302 | 487,632 | 15,970 | ||
Contingency (Note 2(c)) | |||||
Shareholders' Equity | |||||
Share capital (Note 2) | 44,718,036 | 16,952,085 | 7,132,582 | ||
Warrants (Note 3) | 7,083,965 | 1,682,832 | - | ||
Special Warrants | - | - | 1,872,475 | ||
Contributed surplus | 393,419 | 428,419 | - | ||
Deficit | (10,505,441) | (9,462,812) | (7,208,739) | ||
41,689,979 | 9,600,524 | 1,796,318 | |||
41,742,281 | 10,088,156 | 1,812,288 | |||
Responsibility for Financial Statements
The accompanying financial statements for Desert Sun Mining Corp. have been prepared by management in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles consistently applied. The most significant of these accounting principles have been set out in the August 31, 2003 audited financial statements. Only changes in accounting policies have been disclosed in these financial statements. These statements are presented on the accrual basis of accounting. Accordingly, a precise determination of many assets and liabilities is dependent upon future events. Therefore, estimates and approximations have been made using careful judgement. Recognizing that the Company is responsible for both the integrity and objectivity of the financial statements, management is satisfied that these financial statements have been fairly presented.
See accompanying notes to these consolidated financial statements.
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
(Stated in Canadian Dollars - Unaudited)
Common Shares | Warrants | Contributed Surplus | Accumulated Deficit | Total |
# | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |
Balance, August 31, 2001 | 15,535,818 | 6,937,867 | - | - | (7,083,318) | (145,451) |
Private placements | 500,000 | 100,000 | - | - | - | 100,000 |
Exercise of stock options | 789,290 | 94,715 | - | - | - | 94,715 |
Issuance of special warrants for cash | - | - | - | 1,872,475 | - | 1,872,475 |
Loss for the period | - | - | - | - | (125,421) | (125,421) |
Balance, August 31,2002 | 16,825,108 | 7,132,582 | - | 1,872,475 | (7,208,739) | 1,796,318 |
Issuance of special warrants for cash | - | - | - | 100,000 | - | 100,000 |
Conversion of special warrants | 5,000,000 | 1,419,047 | 553,428 | (1,972,475) | - | - |
Private placements | 9,246,520 | 7,694,174 | 1,212,471 | 179,545 | - | 9,086,190 |
Stock-based compensation | - | - | - | 248,874 | - | 248,874 |
Exercise of warrants | 835,000 | 433,517 | (83,067) | - | - | 350,450 |
Exercise of stock options | 961,790 | 272,765 | - | - | - | 272,765 |
Adjustment | 66 | - | - | - | - | - |
Loss for the period | - | - | - | - | (2,254,073) | (2,254,073) |
Balance, August 31, 2003 | 32,868,484 | 16,952,085 | 1,682,832 | 428,419 | (9,462,812) | 9,600,524 |
Issued for Jacobina gold property | 1,851,852 | 3,000,000 | - | - | - | 3,000,000 |
Private placements | 19,879,707 | 31,198,702 | - | - | - | 31,198,702 |
Warrant valuation | - | (5,823,530) | 5,823,530 | - | - | - |
Exercise of warrants | 2,240,000 | 1,218,300 | - | - | - | 1,218,300 |
Warrant valuation allocation on exercise of warrants | - | 422,397 | (422,397) | - | - | - |
Exercise of stock options | 320,000 | 200,600 | - | - | - | 200,600 |
Stock option valuation allocation on exercise of options | - | 35,000 | - | (35,000) | - | - |
Share issue costs | - | (2,485,518) | - | - | - | (2,485,518) |
Loss for the period | - | - | - | - | (1,042,629) | (1,042,629) |
Balance, December 31, 2003 | 57,160,043 | 44,718,036 | 7,083,965 | 393,419 | (10,505,441) | 41,689,979 |
See accompanying notes to these consolidated financial statements.
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND DEFICIT
(Stated in Canadian Dollars)
Cumulative from Inception (May 21, 1980) to December 31, 2003 | Four months ended December 31, 2003 | Year ended August 31, 2003 | Year ended August 31, 2002 | Year ended August 31, 2001 | |||||
(unaudited) | (unaudited) | (audited) | (audited) | (audited) | |||||
$ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||
Revenue | - | - | - | - | - | ||||
Expenses | |||||||||
Amortization | 32,012 | 2,785 | 2,952 | 959 | 1,599 | ||||
Consulting fees | 675,461 | 246,957 | 401,769 | 26,735 | - | ||||
Investor relations and shareholders' information | 565,807 | 174,560 | 389,112 | 2,117 | - | ||||
Management and administrative services | 1,131,162 | 381,417 | 716,745 | 33,000 | - | ||||
Office and miscellaneous | 3,370,759 | 103,527 | 234,748 | 25,369 | 28,932 | ||||
Professional fees | 273,585 | 64,077 | 118,678 | 28,307 | 17,312 | ||||
Transfer agent, listing and filing fees | 226,975 | 20,190 | 167,162 | 15,440 | 18,288 | ||||
Travel and entertainment | 487,937 | 121,130 | 297,705 | 68,516 | 586 | ||||
Write-off of property interests | 3,910,160 | - | - | 23,249 | - | ||||
Write-off of equipment | 168,348 | - | - | 5,437 | - | ||||
Forgiveness of amounts payable | (154,741) | - | - | (100,199) | (28,018) | ||||
10,687,465 | 1,114,643 | 2,328,871 | 128,930 | 38,699 | |||||
Other | |||||||||
Interest income | (188,649) | (72,014) | (82,442) | (2,414) | (107) | ||||
Foreign Exchange | 6,625 | - | 7,644 | (1,095) | (23) | ||||
Net loss for the period | 10,505,441 | 1,042,629 | 2,254,073 | 125,421 | 38,569 | ||||
DEFICIT, beginning of period | - | 9,462,812 | 7,208,739 | 7,083,318 | 7,044,749 | ||||
DEFICIT, end of period | 10,505,441 | 10,505,441 | 9,462,812 | 7,208,739 | 7,083,318 | ||||
Net loss per share - basic and diluted | 0.02 | 0.09 | 0.01 | 0.00 | |||||
Weighted average number of shares outstanding | 46,848,118 | 25,048,434 | 15,780,313 | 13,801,166 | |||||
See accompanying notes to these consolidated financial statements.
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Stated in Canadian Dollars)
Cumulative from Inception (May 21, 1980) to December 31, 2003 | Four months ended December 31, 2003 | Year ended August 31,2003 | Year ended August 31, 2002 | Year ended August 31, 2001 | |||||
(unaudited) | (unaudited) | (audited) | (audited) | (audited) | |||||
$ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||
Cash Provided by (used in): | |||||||||
OPERATING ACTIVITIES | |||||||||
Loss for the period | (10,505,441) | (1,042,629) | (2,254,073) | (125,421) | (38,569) | ||||
Adjustment for non-cash items: | |||||||||
Amortization | 454,979 | 2,785 | 2,952 | 959 | 1,599 | ||||
Compensation expense (Note 1) | 248,874 | - | 248,874 | - | - | ||||
Forgiveness of debt | (154,741) | - | - | (100,199) | (28,018) | ||||
Write off of property interests | 3,910,160 | - | - | 23,249 | - | ||||
Write off of equipment | 165,552 | - | - | 5,437 | - | ||||
Net change in non-cash working capital balances | 638,176 | (522,957) | 444,233 | (100,233) | 60,021 | ||||
(5,242,441) | (1,562,801) | (1,558,014) | (296,208) | (4,967) | |||||
INVESTING ACTIVITIES | |||||||||
Exploration property, plant and equipment (net) | (10,205,010) | (3,597,846) | (3,111,662) | (35,836) | (4,204) | ||||
Purchase of equipment (net) | (617,172) | (7,979) | (42,407) | - | - | ||||
(10,822,182) | (3,605,825) | (3,154,069) | (35,836) | (4,204) | |||||
FINANCING ACTIVITES | |||||||||
Issuance of special warrants | 2,208,725 | - | 100,000 | 1,872,475 | - | ||||
Issuance of common shares | 45,651,817 | 30,132,084 | 9,709,405 | 194,715 | - | ||||
47,860,542 | 30,132,084 | 9,809,405 | 2,067,190 | - | |||||
CHANGE IN CASH AND EQUIVALENTS for the period | 31,795,919 | 24,963,458 | 5,097,322 | 1,735,146 | (9,171) | ||||
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period | - | 6,832,461 | 1,735,139 | (7) | 9,164 | ||||
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS, end of period | 31,795,919 | 31,795,919 | 6,832,461 | 1,735,139 | (7) | ||||
Supplemental Information: | |||||||||
Issuance of shares for property interests | 3,442,422 | 3,000,000 | - | - | 8,360 | ||||
Issuance of shares for equipment | 49,000 | - | - | - | - | ||||
Issuance of shares to settle debt | 594,582 | - | - | - | - | ||||
Conversion of special warrants to shares and warrants | 2,208,725 | - | 1,972,475 | - | 236,250 |
See accompanying notes to these consolidated financial statements.
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Stated in Canadian Dollars - Unaudited)
As of and for the four months ended December 31, 2003
1.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The management of Desert Sun Mining Corp. ("Desert Sun" or the "Company") has prepared these unaudited financial statements for the four months ended December 31, 2003 in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial statements. These policies conform, in all material respects, with United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("US GAAP") except as discussed in note 9. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the August 31, 2003 audited financial statements.
These unaudited interim financial statements follow the same accounting policies as the August 31, 2003 audited financial statements, except for the following:
Stock - Based Compensation
The CICA Handbook Section 3870 requires that the compensation for option awards to employees be recognized in the financial statements at fair value for options granted in fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2004. The Company, as permitted by CICA Handbook Section 3870, has adopted this section prospectively for new option awards granted on or after September 1, 2003. Accordingly, a fair value compensation expense would have been recorded for the four months ended December 31, 2003 for awards granted in this period, but for the fact that the options only vested upon shareholder approval of the revised stock option plan which was received on January 21, 2004 (see also note 5 (b)). The expense applicable to the options granted to consultants and the pro forma expense applicable to the options granted to employees during the years ended August 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 are as follows:
August 31, 2003 | August 31, 2002 | August 31, 2001 | |
$ | $ | $ | |
Value of options granted to consultants | 248,874 | 26,000 | - |
Value of options granted to employees | 463,336 | 237,000 | 78,000 |
The disclosure in these interim financial statements may not confirm in all respects to Canadian generally accepted accounting principles for annual financial statements.
In the opinion of management, all adjustments considered necessary for fair presentation have been included in these unaudited consolidated financial statements. Operating results for the four months ended December 31, 2003 are not indicative of the results that may be expected for the twelve months to December 31, 2004.
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Stated in Canadian Dollars - Unaudited)
As of and for the four months ended December 31, 2003
2.
SHARE CAPITAL
a) Authorized - unlimited common shares without par value
b) Issued
Number of Shares | Amount | |
Beginning balance, August 31, 2003 (audited) | 32,868,484 | $ 16,952,085 |
Issued for Jacobina gold property (Note 2(c)) | 1,851,852 | 3,000,000 |
Private placement - gross proceeds (Note 2(d)) | 8,115,000 | 11,198,700 |
Private placement - gross proceeds (Note 2(e)) | 11,764,707 | 20,000,002 |
Warrant valuation (Note 2(e)) | (5,823,530) | |
Exercise of warrants - cash proceeds | 2,240,000 | 1,218,300 |
Exercise of warrants - warrant valuation allocation | 422,397 | |
Exercise of stock options for cash | 320,000 | 200,600 |
Exercise of stock options - option valuation allocation | 35,000 | |
Share issue costs | (2,485,518) | |
Ending balance, December 31, 2003 (unaudited) | 57,160,043 | $ 44,718,036 |
c) Acquisition of 100% of the Jacobina Mine
In September 2003, Desert Sun exercised its option to acquire the remaining 49% interest of the Jacobina property from Valencia Ventures Inc. ("VVI"). The purchase price of $5 million was satisfied through a cash payment of $2 million and the issuance of 1,851,852 common shares in the capital of the Company to VVI at a price of $1.62 per share. As a result of the exercise of this option, Desert Sun owns 100% of the Jacobina property subject to a 5% net profit interest in favour of a third party. To give effect to this acquisition, Desert Sun has acquired a 100% interest in the equity of Jacobina Mineração e Comercia Ltda. ("Jacobina"), the Brazilian company that holds the mining and exploration licenses, fixed property, etc. See note 6(d).
Under the agreement, VVI has provided certain indemnities to Desert Sun for liabilities outstanding at the date of acquisition. These amounts include taxes payable to the Brazilian Federal and State authorities, for which formal refinancing arrangements have now been concluded; liabilities to third parties, which are presently subject to settlement negotiations; as well as labour and health related claims by former employees, which are being contested in court. Arrangements have been made by VVI to settle all of the past taxes payable, totaling some $1.6 million, over periods of up to 15 years. A conservative estimate of the claims relating to silicosis, for the period prior to the Company’s acquisition of Jacobina, and for which VVI has indemnified Desert Sun is US$1.6 million. It is management’s belief that the labour related claims are substantially wi thout merit and Desert Sun and VVI intend to defend the actions vigorously.
d) $11 million private placement
In September 2003, Desert Sun issued 8,115,000 common shares at a price of $1.38 per share for total gross proceeds of $11.2 million pursuant to an underwriting agreement with Sprott Securities Inc., Griffiths McBurney & Partners, Octagon Capital Corporation and Pacific International Securities Inc. Proceeds from the offering are to be used to fund the development of the Jacobina project in Brazil and for working capital purposes.
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Stated in Canadian Dollars - Unaudited)
As of and for the four months ended December 31, 2003
2.
SHARE CAPITAL (continued)
e) $20 million bought deal financing
In November 2003, Desert Sun completed a bought deal financing pursuant to which it raised $20 million through the issuance of 11,764,707 units at a price of $1.70 per unit. Each unit consisted of one common share and one-half of one common share purchase warrant of Desert Sun. Each whole warrant will be exercisable at a price of $2.50 and expire on November 20, 2008. Proceeds from the offering are to be used to fund the development of the Jacobina project in Brazil and for working capital purposes.
The gross proceeds have been prorated to common shares and warrants based on the fair value of each component as follows: shares - $14,176,470; warrants - $5,823,530.
f) Compensation options
As part of the private placement on July 22, 2003, 227,272 Compensation Options were issued to the underwriters. Each Compensation Option entitles the holder to purchase one Compensation Unit at a price of $1.10 per Compensation Unit until July 22, 2005. Each Compensation Unit consists of one common share of the Company and one half of one common share purchase warrant. Each whole warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $1.35 until July 22, 2005.
3.
WARRANTS
The following summarizes the warrant activity during the four months ended December 31, 2003:
Number of warrants | Weighted Average Exercise Price | |
# | $ | |
Balance, August 31, 2003 (audited) | 7,288,260 | 1.00 |
Issued | 5,882,353 | 2.50 |
Exercised | (2,240,000) | 0.54 |
Balance, December 31, 2003 (unaudited) | 10,930,613 | 1.90 |
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Stated in Canadian Dollars - Unaudited)
As of and for the four months ended December 31, 2003
3.
WARRANTS (continued)
Summary of warrants outstanding at December 31, 2003:
Expiry Date | Number of Warrants | Exercise Price | Amount (*) |
# | $ | $ | |
August 3, 2004 | 600,000 | 0.50 | 108,000 |
August 18, 2004 | 2,275,533 | 1.25 | 500,617 |
July 22, 2005 | 2,172,727 | 1.35 | 651,818 |
November 20, 2008 | 5,882,353 | 2.50 | 5,823,530 |
10,930,613 | 1.90 | 7,083,965 | |
(*) Black-Scholes Valuation
4.
STOCK OPTIONS
The following summarizes the stock option activity during the four months ended December 31, 2003:
Number of Options | Weighted Ave. Exercise Price | |
# | $ | |
Balance, August 31, 2003 (audited) | 3,133,497 | 0.79 |
Exercised during the period | (320,000) | 0.63 |
Granted during the period | 4,147,499 | 1.65 |
Balance, December 31, 2003 (unaudited) | 6,960,996 | 1.31 |
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Stated in Canadian Dollars - Unaudited)
As of and for the four months ended December 31, 2003
4.
STOCK OPTIONS (continued)
As of December 31, 2003, the following options to acquire common shares were outstanding:
Expiry Date | Number of Options | Exercisable Options | Exercise Price |
# | # | $ | |
July 11, 2007 | 677,500 | 677,500 | 0.38 |
September 16, 2007 | 132,000 | 132,000 | 0.40 |
September 16, 2007 | 132,000 | 132,000 | 0.60 |
September 16, 2007 | 132,000 | 132,000 | 0.80 |
February 4, 2008 | 1,289,997 | 1,289,997 | 1.00 |
April 23, 2008 | 225,000 | 225,000 | 1.00 |
July 2, 2008 | 100,000 | 25,000 | 1.00 |
July 23, 2008 | 75,000 | 75,000 | 1.10 |
July 25, 2008 | 50,000 | 12,500 | 1.35 |
September 22, 2008 | 2,150,000 | - | 1.62 |
October 21, 2008 | 400,000 | - | 1.65 |
November 17, 2008 | 50,000 | - | 1.95 |
December 11, 2008 | 185,000 | - | 1.57 |
December 22, 2008 | 1,362,499 | - | 1.70 |
6,960,996 | 2,700,997 | 1.31 | |
5.
STOCK OPTION COMPENSATION ADJUSTMENT
a) Vested stock options
During the four months ended December 31, 2003, 4,147,499 stock options were issued to directors, officers and consultants of the Company. These options will be expensed in the statement of operations and deficit as the options vest. During the four months ended December 31, 2003, no further options have vested.
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Stated in Canadian Dollars - Unaudited)
As of and for the four months ended December 31, 2003
5.
STOCK OPTION COMPENSATION ADJUSTMENT (continued)
b) Stock options not vested
Summary of stock options not vested at December 31, 2003; subject to shareholder approval:
(i)
2,150,000 stock options exercisable at $1.62 and expire September 22, 2008
Expected dividend yield 0%, expected volatility 78%, risk-free interest rate of 4.0% and an expected life of 5 years. Value assigned to the 2,150,000 stock options was $2,279,000.
(ii)
400,000 stock options exercisable at $1.65 and expire October 21, 2008
Expected dividend yield 0%, expected volatility 78%, risk-free interest rate of 4.0% and an expected life of 5 years. Value assigned to the 400,000 stock options was $432,000.
(iii)
50,000 stock options exercisable at $1.95 and expire November 17, 2008
Expected dividend yield 0%, expected volatility 78%, risk-free interest rate of 4.0% and an expected life of 5 years. Value assigned to the 50,000 stock options was $64,000.
(iv)
185,000 stock options exercisable at $1.57 and expire December 11, 2008
Expected dividend yield 0%, expected volatility 78%, risk-free interest rate of 4.0% and an expected life of 5 years. Value assigned to the 185,000 stock options was $190,550.
(v)
1,362,499 stock options exercisable at $1.70 and expire December 22, 2008
Expected dividend yield 0%, expected volatility 78%, risk-free interest rate of 4.0% and an expected life of 5 years. Value assigned to the 185,000 stock options was $1,512,374.
The Black-Scholes valuation for the above mentioned stock options will be expensed in the statement of operations as they vest.
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Stated in Canadian Dollars - Unaudited)
As of and for the four months ended December 31, 2003
6.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
All transactions with related parties have occurred in the normal course of operations and are measured at the exchange amount, which is the amount of consideration established and agreed to by the related parties.
(a) Management and administrative services expense includes $38,000, which was paid to a company controlled by an officer and director of the Company for administrative services including the services of the Company's corporate secretary.
(b) Desert Sun shares its premises with other companies that have common directors. Desert Sun is reimbursed by the related companies for their proportional share of the expenses.
(c) An officer and director of the Company is a director of VVI. See note 2(c).
7.
COMPARATIVE FIGURES
Certain of the comparative figures have been reclassified to conform to the presentation adopted in the current year.
8.
SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On February 27, 2004, the Company announced that it intended to change its financial year end from August 31st to December 31st in order to coincide with the year end of its subsidiary, Jacobina Mineração e Comercia ("JMC"). Under Brazilian law, JMC is required to have a year end of December 31st. As JMC holds a 100% interest in the Jacobina gold mine, the Company's sole project, the Company believes that it would be more cost efficient and in the best interests of shareholders for both companies to have the same financial year end.
The Board of Directors of Desert Sun has approved the change in year end.
The Company intends to implement this change immediately by having a transition year of 16 months, with the last day of the transition year being December 31, 2004.
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Stated in Canadian Dollars - Unaudited)
As of and for the four months ended December 31, 2003
9.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CANADIAN AND UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in Canada ("Canadian GAAP"). The following represents the material adjustments to the consolidated financial statements as at December 31, 2003, August 31, 2003, August 31, 2002 and August 31, 2001 in order to conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("US GAAP").
December 31 | August 31 | August 31 | August 31 | |
2003 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | |
$ | $ | $ | $ | |
ASSETS | ||||
Exploration property - Canadian GAAP | 9,745,344 | 3,147,498 | 35,836 | 23,249 |
Less: exploration costs expensed - US GAAP (a) | (3,147,498) | (3,147,498) | (35,836) | (23,249) |
Exploration property - US GAAP | 6,597,846 | - | - | - |
OPERATIONS | ||||
Net Loss - Canadian GAAP | (1,042,629) | (2,254,073) | (125,421) | (38,569) |
Exploration costs expensed - US GAAP (a) | - | (3,111,662) | (35,836) | (12,564) |
Exploration costs written off - Canadian GAAP (a) | - | - | 23,249 | - |
Compensation expense - Canadian GAAP | - | 248,874 | - | - |
Compensation expense - US GAAP | - | (497,748) | (52,000) | - |
Net loss - US GAAP | (1,042,629) | (5,614,609) | (190,008) | (51,133) |
LOSS PER SHARE | ||||
Numerator: Net loss for the period - US GAAP | (1,042,629) | (5,614,609) | (190,008) | (51,133) |
Denominator: Weighted-average number of shares - Canadian GAAP | 46,848,118 | 25,048,434 | 15,780,313 | 13,801,166 |
Adjustment required - US GAAP (c) | - | - | (546,238) | (546,238) |
Weighted-average number of shares under US GAAP | 46,848,118 | 25,048,434 | 15,234,075 | 13,254,928 |
Basic and diluted loss per share - US GAAP | 0.02 | 0.22 | 0.01 | 0.00 |
CONTRIBUTED SURPLUS | ||||
Contributed Surplus, end of period, Cdn GAAP | 393,419 | 428,419 | - | - |
Compensation expense | 300,874 | 300,874 | 52,000 | - |
Contributed Surplus, end of period, US GAAP | 694,293 | 729,293 | 52,000 | - |
DEFICIT | ||||
Deficit, end of period - Canadian GAAP | (10,505,441) | (9,462,812) | (7,208,739) | (7,083,318) |
Adjustment to deficit for exploration costs expensed - US GAAP (a) | (3,147,498) | (3,147,498) | (35,836) | (23,249) |
Compensation expense | (300,874) | (300,874) | (52,000) | - |
Deficit, end of period - US GAAP | (13,953,813) | (12,911,184) | (7,296,575) | 7,106,567) |
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Stated in Canadian Dollars - Unaudited)
As of and for the four months ended December 31, 2003
9.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CANADIAN AND UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES (continued)
CASH FLOWS | ||||
Cash flows from operating activities - Canadian GAAP | (1,562,801) | (1,558,014) | (296,208) | (4,967) |
Exploration costs expensed as incurred - US GAAP (a) | - | (3,111,662) | (35,836) | (4,204) |
Exploration costs written off - Canadian GAAP (a) | - | - | 23,249 | - |
Cash flows from operating activities - US GAAP | (1,562,801) | (4,669,676) | (308,795) | (9,171) |
Cash flows from investing activities - Canadian GAAP | (3,605,825) | (3,154,069) | (35,836) | (4,204) |
Exploration property expensed as incurred - US GAAP (a) | - | 3,111,662 | 35,836 | 4,204 |
Cash flows from investing activities - US GAAP | (3,605,825) | (42,407) | - | - |
FUTURE INCOME TAXES | ||||
Future income taxes - Canadian GAAP | - | - | - | - |
Future income tax asset relating to exploration costs expensed as incurred - US GAAP (a) | 1,043,000 | 1,151,000 | 14,000 | 2,000 |
Increase in valuation allowance - US GAAP | (1,043,000) | (1,151,000) | (14,000) | (2,000) |
Future income taxes - US GAAP | - | - | - | - |
(a)
Exploration Property
Exploration property costs and related exploration expenditures are accounted for in accordance with Canadian GAAP as disclosed in Note 2 of the August 31, 2003 audited financial statements. For US GAAP purposes, the Company expenses, as incurred, the exploration costs and option fees relating to unproven exploration properties. When proven and probable reserves are determined for a property and a feasibility study prepared, subsequent exploration and development costs of the property are capitalized. The Company received a positive feasibility study for the Jacobina mine in September 2003. The capitalized cost of the property is measured periodically for recoverability of carrying values.
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Stated in Canadian Dollars - Unaudited)
As of and for the four months ended December 31, 2003
9.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CANADIAN AND UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES (continued)
(b)
Stock-based Compensation
The following pro forma information presents the net loss for the period and the net loss per common share had the Company adopted SFAS 123 for all stock options issued to employees.
December 31 | August 31 | August 31 | August 31 | |
2003 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | |
$ | $ | $ | $ | |
Loss for the year - US GAAP | (1,042,629) | (5,614,609) | (190,008) | (51,133) |
Fair value of options issued to employees - US GAAP | - | (926,672) | (474,000) | (156,000) |
Pro forma loss - US GAAP | (1,042,629) | (6,541,281) | (664,008) | (207,133) |
Pro forma loss per share - US GAAP | 0.02 | 0.26 | 0.04 | 0.02 |
The fair value amounts have been determined using a Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions used for the periods ended August 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001: expected dividend yield of 0%, expected volatility of 78% in 2003, 144% in 2002 and 116% in 2001, a risk-free interest rate of 4% and an expected life of five years.
(c)
Loss per Share
Under Canadian GAAP, shares held in escrow are included in the calculation of loss per share. Under US GAAP, shares held in escrow and which are contingently issuable are excluded from the weighted-average number of shares outstanding until such shares are released for trading.
Additionally, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128: Earnings per Share ("SFAS 128") replaces the presentation of primary earnings per share ("EPS") with a presentation of both basic and diluted EPS for all entitles with complex capital structures including a reconciliation of each numerator and denominator. Basic EPS excludes dilutive securities and is computed by dividing income available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding in the year. Diluted EPS, which reflects the potential dilution that could occur if dilutive securities were converted into common stock, is computed similarly to fully diluted EPS pursuant to previous accounting pronouncements. SFAS 128 applies equally to loss per share presentations. See notes 3,4, and 5.
Stock options and warrants outstanding were not included in the computation of diluted loss per share as their inclusion would be antidilutive. See Notes 3 and 4 for a list of stock options and warrants outstanding.
DESERT SUN MINING CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Stated in Canadian Dollars - Unaudited)
As of and for the four months ended December 31, 2003
9.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CANADIAN AND UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES (continued)
(d)
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
As disclosed in Note 12(d) of the August 31, 2003 audited financial statements.
SIGNATURE PAGE
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 12g of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-FT and has duly caused this Annual Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Desert Sun Mining Corp. -- SEC File No. 000-29619
Registrant
Dated:November 10, 2004 By/s/ Bruce Humphrey
Bruce Humphrey, President/CEO/Director
Dated:November 10, 2004 By/s/ Stephen Woodhead
Stephen Woodhead, CFO