UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 20-F
[ ] REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12 (b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year endedDecember 31, 2008
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ____________ to ____________
Commission file number333-78481
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Not Applicable
(Translation of Registrant's Name into English)
British Columbia, Canada
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
2100-1177 West Hastings Street
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6E 2K3
(Address of principal executive offices)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
Title of Class | Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered |
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act.
Common Shares Without Par Value
(Title of Class)
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Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act.
Not Applicable
Title of Class
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the Registrant's classes of capital or common stock
as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.
There were 81,654,521 common shares, without par value, issued and outstanding as of December
31, 2008.
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities
Act. [ ] YES [X] NO
If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file
reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. [X] YES [ ] NO
Note – Checking the box above will not relieve any registrant required to file reports pursuant to Section
13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 from their obligations under those Sections.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or
15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period
that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements
for the past 90 days. [X] YES [ ] NO
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-
accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the
Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer [ ] Accelerated filer [X ] Non-accelerated filer [ ]
Indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.
[X] Item 17 [ ] Item 18
If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in
Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). [ ] YES [X] NO
(APPLICABLE ONLY TO ISSUERS INVOLVED IN BANKRUPTCY
PROCEEDINGS DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed all documents and reports required to be filed by
Sections 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the distribution of
securities under a plan confirmed by a court. [ ] YES [ ] NO
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GLOSSARY OF TERMS
The following glossary, which is not exhaustive, should be used only as an adjunct to a thorough reading of the entire document of which it forms a part.
adit: A horizontal or close-to-horizontal tunnel, man-made for mining purposes.
Ag: The chemical symbol for silver on the Periodic Table.
andesite: A fine-grained brown or greyish intermediate volcanic rock.
Au: The chemical symbol for gold on the Periodic Table.
breccia: A course-grained rock, composed of angular, broken rock fragments held together by a mineral cement or a fine-grained matrix.
chloritization: A form of alteration of a rock involving the replacement by, conversion into, or introduction of chloride.
crosscuts: Mine openings or passageways that intersect a vein or ore bearing structure at an angle.
epithermal: Applied to hydrothermal deposits formed at low temperature and pressure.
Feasibility Study: A detailed study of a deposit in which all geological, engineering, operating, economic and other relevant factors are engineered in sufficient detail that it could reasonably serve as the basis for a final decision by a financial institution to finance the development of the deposit for mineral production.
felsic: Applied to an igneous rock having abundant light-colored materials.
hectare: A metric unit of land measure equal to 10,000 square metres or 2.471 acres.
hydrothermal: Relating to hot fluids circulating in the earth's crust.
Indicated Mineral Resource:As defined by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum, an Indicated Mineral Resource is part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape, and physical characteristics, can be estimated with a level of confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings, and drill holes that are spaced closely enough for geological and grade continuity to be reasonably assumed.i
Inferred Mineral Resource:As defined by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum, an Inferred Mineral Resource is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity and grade or quality can be estimated on the basis of geological evidence and limited sampling and reasonably assumed, but not verified, geological and grade continuity. The estimate is based on limited information and sampling gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings, and drill holes.ii
Measured Mineral Resource: As defined by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, a Measured Mineral Resource is part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics are so well established that they can be estimated with confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate
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application of technical and economic parameters, to support production planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on a detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings, and drill holes that are spaced closely enough to confirm both geological and grade continuity.
mineral: An inorganic substance having usually a definite chemical composition and, if formed under favourable conditions, having a certain characteristic atomic structure which is expressed in its crystalline form and other physical properties.
Mineral Resource:As defined by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum, a Mineral Resource is a concentration or occurrence of natural, solid, inorganic, or fossilized organic material in or on the Earth’s crust in such form and quantity and of such a grade or quality that it has reasonable prospects for economic extraction. The location, quantity, grade geological characteristics and continuity of a Mineral Resource are known, estimated or interpreted from specific geological evidence and knowledge.
Mineral Reserve:As defined by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum, a Mineral Reserve is the economically mineable part of a Measured or Indicated Mineral Resource demonstrated by at least a Preliminary Feasibility Study. This Study must include adequate information on mining, processing, metallurgical, economic and other relevant factors that demonstrate, at the time of reporting, that economic extraction can be justified. A Mineral Reserve includes diluting materials and allowances for losses that may occur when the material is mined.
mineral claim: The portion of mining ground held under law by a claimant.
mineralization: Implication that the rocks contain sulphide minerals and that these could be related to ore.
ore: That part of a mineral deposit which could be economically and legally extracted.
Probable Mineral Reserve:As defined by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum, a Probable Mineral Reserve is the economically mineable part of an Indicated, and in some circumstances a Measured Mineral Resource demonstrated by at least a Preliminary Feasibility Study. This Study must include adequate information on mining, processing, metallurgical, economic, and other relevant factors that demonstrate, at the time of reporting, that economic extraction can be justified.
Proven Mineral Reserve:As defined by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum, a proven mineral reserve, is the economically mineable part of a Measured Mineral Resource demonstrated by at least a Preliminary Feasibility Study. This Study must include adequate information on mining, processing, metallurgical, economic, and other relevant factors that demonstrate, at the time of reporting, that economic extraction is justified.
quartz: A common rock forming mineral consisting of silicon and oxygen.
rhyolite: A fine-grained volcanic (intrusive) rock of granitic composition.
sulfidation: The reaction of a metal or alloy with a sulfur-containing species to produce a sulfur compound that forms on or beneath the surface of the metal or alloy.
stockwork: A metalliferous deposit characterized by the impregnation of the mass of rock with many small veins or nests irregularly grouped.
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vein: A zone or belt of mineralized rock lying within boundaries clearly separating it from neighbouring rock. A mineralized zone has, more or less, a regular development in length, width and depth to give it a tabular form and is commonly inclined at a considerable angle to the horizontal. The term "lode" is commonly used synonymously for vein.
PART I
This annual report contains forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements relate to future events or our future financial performance. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as "may", "will", "should", "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "estimates", "predicts", "potential" or "continue" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including the risks in the section entitled "Risk Factors" that may cause our or our industry's actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.
Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Except as required by applicable law, including the securities laws of the United States, we do not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements to conform these statements to actual results.
As used in this annual report, the terms "we", "us", "our", and "Great Panther" mean Great Panther Resources Limited, and our subsidiaries, Minera Mexicana el Rosario, S.A. de C.V., Metalicos de Durango, S.A. de C.V., Minera de Villa Seca, S.A. de C.V., Exploraciones Mineras el Rosario S.A. de C.V. and/or New Age Investments Inc., unless otherwise indicated.
Unless otherwise indicated, all dollar amounts referred to herein are in Canadian dollars.
ITEM 1 Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers
A. Directors and Senior Management
This Form 20-F is being filed as an annual report under the Exchange Act, and, as such, there is no requirement to provide any information under this item.
B. Advisers
This Form 20-F is being filed as an annual report under the Exchange Act, and, as such, there is no requirement to provide any information under this item.
C. Auditors
This Form 20-F is being filed as an annual report under the Exchange Act, and, as such, there is no requirement to provide any information under this item.
ITEM 2 Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable
Not applicable.
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ITEM 3 Key Information
A. Selected Financial Data
The following tables summarize certain of our key selected financial data. This information should be read in conjunction with the more detailed financial statements included in this Annual Report.
Selected Financial Data
(Stated in Canadian Dollars unless otherwise noted - Calculated in accordance with Canadian
GAAP)
Fiscal Year Ended December 31 (Audited)
Canadian GAAP | 2008 | 2007 (restated)1 | 2006 (restated)1 | 2005 | 2004 |
Sales or Operating Revenue | 22,445,438 | 15,523,094 | 6,333,034 | - | - |
Loss for the year | (14,285,852) | (19,700,861) | (15,084,437) | (5,231,685) | (2,893,657) |
Loss per Common Share – basic and diluted | (0.18) | (0.27) | (0.25) | (0.22) | (0.22) |
Total Assets | 21,379,188 | 31,053,110 | 32,132,259 | 19,218,970 | 3,788,331 |
Capital Stock | 57,865,462 | 56,988,447 | 46,393,145 | 21,536,440 | 7,068,595 |
Number of Common Shares (adjusted to reflect consolidation of common shares) | 81,654,521 | 80,744,352 | 69,797,348 | 47,349,431 | 15,818,677 |
Long-Term Debt2 | 5,544,976 | 4,117,236 | 2,450,740 | 5,587,217 | - |
Cash Dividends per Common Share | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil |
1 | Revenue and cost of sales have been restated to include treatment and processing charges as a reduction of revenue instead of an expense included in cost of sales – see“Restatement”in Item 5. |
2 | Excludes asset retirement obligations and future income tax liability. |
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Selected Financial Data
(Stated in Canadian Dollars Unless Otherwise Noted - Calculated in accordance with US GAAP)
Fiscal Year Ended December 31 (Audited)
United States GAAP | 2008 | 2007 (restated)1 | 2006 (restated)1 | 2005 | 2004 |
Sales or Operating Revenue | 22,445,438 | 15,523,094 | 6,333,034 | - | - |
Loss for the year | (13,662,773) | (19,323,049) | (14,934,638) | (5,231,685) | (2,893,657) |
Loss per Common Share – basic and diluted | (0.17) | (0.27) | (0.25) | (0.22) | (0.22) |
Total Assets | 21,379,188 | 31,053,110 | 32,132,259 | 19,218,970 | 3,789,696 |
Capital Stock | 64,076,667 | 63,199,652 | 52,604,350 | 27,747,645 | 13,279,800 |
Number of Common Shares (adjusted to reflect consolidation of common shares) | 81,654,521 | 80,744,352 | 69,797,348 | 47,349,431 | 15,818,677 |
Long-Term Debt2 | 6,963,286 | 6,158,625 | 3,306,941 | 5,587,217 | - |
Cash Dividends per Common Share | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil |
1 | Revenue and cost of sales have been restated to include treatment and processing charges as a reduction of revenue instead of an expense included in cost of sales – see“Restatement”in Item 5. |
2 | Excludes asset retirement obligations and future income tax liability. |
Disclosure of Exchange Rate History
On March 18, 2009, the exchange rate in effect for Canadian dollars exchanged for United States dollars, expressed in terms of Canadian dollars, and based on the noon buying rates in New York City, for cable transfers in Canadian dollars, as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York was $1.2715.
For the past five fiscal years ended December 31, 2008 the average exchange rates were in effect, and for each of the previous six months, the high and low exchange rates were in effect, for Canadian dollars exchanged for United States dollars and expressed in terms of Canadian dollars:
Year/Month End | Average | Low/High |
December 31, 2004 | $1.3017 | not applicable |
December 31, 2005 | $1.2115 | not applicable |
December 31, 2006 | $1.1340 | not applicable |
December 31, 2007 | $1.0734 | not applicable |
December 31, 2008 | $1.0660 | not applicable |
September 30, 2008 | not applicable | $1.0338/$1.0797 |
October 31, 2008 | not applicable | $1.0607/$1.2942 |
November 30, 2008 | not applicable | $1.1502/$1.2850 |
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Year/Month End | Average | Low/High |
December 31, 2008 | not applicable | $1.1962/$1.2971 |
January 31, 2009 | not applicable | $1.1822/$1.2749 |
February 29, 2009 | not applicable | $1.2190/$1.2710 |
B. Capitalization and Indebtedness
Not Applicable
C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds
Not applicable
D. Risk Factors
Risks Associated with Mining
Our reserve and resource estimates are based on interpretation and assumptions and may yield less mineral production under actual conditions than is currently estimated.
In making determinations about whether to advance any of our projects to development, we must rely upon estimated calculations as to the mineral reserves and grades of mineralization on our properties. Until ore is actually mined and processed, mineral reserves and grades of mineralization must be considered as estimates only. These estimates are imprecise and depend upon geological interpretation and statistical inferences drawn from drilling and sampling which may prove to be unreliable. We cannot assure you that:
Reserve, resource or other mineralization estimates will be accurate; or
Mineralization can be mined or processed profitably.
Any material changes in mineral reserve estimates and grades of mineralization will affect the economic viability of placing a property into production and a property’s return on capital. Our reserve and resource estimates have been determined and valued based on assumed future prices, cut-off grades and operating costs that may prove to be inaccurate. Extended declines in market prices for silver, gold, zinc and lead may render portions of our mineralization uneconomic and result in reduced reported mineral reserves.
Any material reductions in estimates of mineralization, or of our ability to extract this mineralization, could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition. We cannot assure you that mineral recovery rates achieved in small scale tests will be duplicated in large scale tests under on-site conditions or in production scale.
Mineral operations are subject to government regulations which could have the effect of reducing or preventing us from exploiting any possible mineral reserves on our properties.
Mining and exploration activities are also subject to national and local laws and regulations governing prospects, taxes, labour standards, occupational health, land use, environmental protection, mine safety and others which currently or in the future may have a substantial adverse impact on our Company. In order to comply with applicable laws, we may be required to make capital expenditures until a particular problem is remedied. Existing and possible future environmental legislation, regulation and action could cause additional expense, capital expenditures, restriction and delays in the activities of our Company, the extent of which cannot be reasonably predicted. Violators may be required to compensate those suffering
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loss or damage by reason of our mining activities and may be fined if convicted of an offence under such legislation.
Mining and mineral exploration has substantial operational risks, which could prevent us from achieving profitable operations.
Mining and mineral exploration involves many risks, which even a combination of experience, knowledge and careful evaluation may not be able to overcome. Operations in which we have an interest will be subject to all of the hazards and risks normally incidental to exploration, development and production of base, precious and other metals, any of which could result in damage to or destruction of mines and other producing facilities, damage to life and property, environmental damage and possible legal liability for any or all damage. The nature of these risks is such that liabilities could exceed policy limits of our insurance coverage, in which case we could incur significant costs that could prevent us from becoming profitable. Most exploration projects do not result in the discovery of commercially mineable ore deposits and no assurance can be given that any anticipated level of recovery of ore reserves will be realized or that any identified mineral deposit will ever qualify as a commercially viable ore body which can be legally and economically exploited.
Our projects are located in Mexico where mining and exploration activities may be affected in varying degrees by political and government regulations, which could have a negative impact on our ability to continue our operations.
Mining and exploration activities in Mexico may be affected in varying degrees by political instabilities and government regulations relating to the mining industry. Any changes in regulations or shifts in political conditions are beyond our control and may adversely affect our business. Our operations may also be affected in varying degrees by government regulations with respect to restrictions on production, price controls, export controls, income taxes, expropriations of property, environmental legislation and mine safety. The status of Mexico as a developing country may make it more difficult for us to obtain any required financing for our projects. The effect of all these factors cannot be accurately predicted. Notwithstanding the progress achieved in restructuring Mexican political institutions and revitalizing its economy, the present administration, or any successor government, may not be able to sustain the progress achieved. While the Mexican economy has experienced growth in recent years, such growth may not continue in the future at similar rates or at all. If the economy of Mexico fails to continue its growth or suffers a recession, we may not be able to continue our operations in that country. We do not carry political risk insurance.
Our operations may be subject to environmental regulations which may result in the imposition of fines and penalties.
Our operations may be subject to environmental regulations promulgated by government agencies from time to time. There is no assurance that environmental regulations will not change in a manner that could have an adverse effect on our Company's financial condition, liquidity or results of operations. Environmental legislation is constantly expanding and evolving in ways that impose stricter standards and more rigorous enforcement, with higher fines and more severe penalties for non-compliance, and increased scrutiny of proposed projects. There is an increased level of responsibility for companies, and trends towards criminal liability for officers and directors for violations of environmental laws, whether inadvertent or not. The cost of compliance with changes in governmental regulations has a potential to reduce the profitability of our operations.
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While we maintain appropriate insurance for liability and property damage, we may become subject to liability for hazards that cannot be insured against, which if such liabilities arise, could reduce or eliminate profitability for our Company.
Our operations may involve the use of dangerous and hazardous substances. While extensive measures are taken to prevent discharges of pollutants in the ground water and the environment, and it is anticipated that we will maintain appropriate insurance for liability and property damage in connection with our business, we may become subject to liability for hazards that cannot be insured against or which we may elect not to insure ourselves against due to high premium costs or other reasons. Should such liabilities arise, they could reduce or eliminate the profitability of us, resulting in a decline in the value of our securities. In the course of mining and exploration of our mineral properties, certain risks and, in particular, unexpected or unusual geological operating conditions including rock bursts, cave-ins, fires, flooding and earthquakes, may occur. It is not always possible to fully insure against such risks and we may decide not to take out insurance against such risks as a result of high premiums or other reasons. Should such liabilities arise, they could reduce or eliminate any future profitability and result in increasing costs and a decline in the value of our securities.
There can be no assurance that title to any property interest acquired by us or our subsidiary is secured.
Although we have taken reasonable precaution to ensure that legal title to our properties is properly documented, there can be no assurance that our Company's, or our subsidiaries’, property interests may not be challenged or impugned. Such property interests may be subject to prior unregistered agreements or transfers or other land claims, and title may be affected by undetected defects and adverse laws and regulations.
We have a limited operating history on which to base an evaluation of our business and prospects.
Since we have only relatively recently begun mining and furthering development of our mining properties, we only have a limited operating history on which to base an evaluation of our future prospects. Our operating activities from 2004 through 2006, consisted primarily of locating and acquiring the interest in the properties that we currently hold. In the first part of 2006, we commenced production at the Topia Mine and limited production at the Guanajuato Mine Complex, and only increased production at both locations in the second half of 2006. 2007 was the first year in which both mines were in full production. At this early stage of our operation, we also expect to face the risks, uncertainties, expenses and difficulties frequently encountered by companies at the early stage of their business development. We cannot be sure that we will be successful in addressing these risks and uncertainties and our failure to do so could have a materially adverse effect on our financial condition. Aside from the professional track record of our Company’s management team, there is no history upon which to base any assumption as to the likelihood that our Company will prove successful and we can provide investors with no assurance that we will generate any net operating revenues or achieve profitable operations.
Our properties are in the production, development and exploration stages; however, they have not all been proven commercially viable at this time and there is no assurance that commercially viable quantities of ore will continue to be discovered.
Our mineral properties are in the early production, development, and/or exploration stages and are not all commercially viable at this time. Despite extensive exploration work on our mineral properties and a long history of continuous production at both the Topia and Guanajuato mines, no known bodies of commercial ore or economic deposits have been established to the satisfaction of National Instrument 43-101 on any of the mineral properties. Mineral exploration involves a high degree of risk. There is no assurance that commercially viable quantities of ore will be discovered at our exploration sites, or that our exploration properties will be brought into commercial production. If we are not able to continue to locate sufficient quantities of commercially viable ore and bring our exploration properties into
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commercial production, we may not be able to continue operations and, as a result, our shareholders may lose any investment in our Company.
We are subject to environmental protection legislation with which we must comply or suffer sanctions from regulatory authorities.
If the results of our geological exploration program indicate commercially exploitable reserves and we decide to pursue commercial production of our mineral claims, we may be subject to an environmental review process under environmental assessment legislation. Compliance with an environmental review process may be costly and may delay commercial production. Furthermore, there is the possibility that we would not be able to proceed with commercial production upon completion of the environmental review process if government authorities do not approve our mine or if the costs of compliance with government regulation adversely affect the commercial viability of the proposed mine.
Mineral prices are subject to dramatic and unpredictable fluctuations.
The market price of precious metals and other minerals is volatile and cannot be controlled. If the price of precious metals and other minerals should drop significantly, the economic prospects of the projects in which we have an interest could be significantly reduced or rendered uneconomic. There is no assurance that, even if commercial quantities of ore are discovered, a profitable market may exist for the sale of same. Factors beyond our control may affect the marketability of any minerals discovered. Mineral prices have fluctuated widely, particularly in recent years. The marketability of minerals is also affected by numerous other factors beyond our control, including government regulations relating to royalties, allowable production and importing and exporting of minerals, the effect of which cannot be accurately predicted.
If we cannot locate qualified personnel, we may have to suspend or cease operations which will result in the loss of your investment.
Not all of our directors and officers have direct training or experience in metals exploration or mining and as a result, they may not be fully aware of any of the specific requirements related to working within the industry. Their decisions and choices may not take into account standard engineering or managerial approaches that mineral exploration companies commonly use. Consequently, our operations, earnings and ultimate financial success could suffer irreparable harm. As a result, we may have to suspend or cease operations which would result in the loss of your investment.
We cannot assure you that we will successfully acquire additional commercially mineable mineral rights.
Most exploration projects do not result in the discovery of commercially mineable ore deposits and no assurance can be given that any anticipated level of recovery of ore reserves will be realized or that any identified mineral deposit will ever qualify as a commercially mineable (or viable) ore body which can be legally and economically exploited. Estimates of reserves, resources, mineral deposits and production costs can also be affected by such factors as environmental permitting regulations and requirements, weather, environmental factors, unforeseen technical difficulties, unusual or unexpected geological formations and work interruptions.
Material changes in ore reserves, grades, stripping ratios or recovery rates may affect the economic viability of any project. Our future growth and productivity will depend, in part, on our ability to identify and acquire additional commercially mineable mineral rights, and on the costs and results of continued exploration and potential development programs. Mineral exploration is highly speculative in nature and is frequently non-productive. Substantial expenditures are required to:
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Establish ore reserves through drilling and metallurgical and other testing techniques;
Determine metal content and metallurgical recovery processes to extract metal from the ore; and
Construct, renovate or expand mining and processing facilities.
In addition, if we discover ore, it would take several years form the initial phases of exploration until production is possible. During this time, the economic feasibility of production may change. As a result of these uncertainties, there can be no assurance that we will successfully acquire additional commercially mineable (or viable) mineral rights.
Risks Associated with our Business
We have limited financial resources and there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain adequate financing in the future. Failure to obtain such financing may result in a delay or indefinite postponement of further exploration, development and mining of our projects.
We have limited financial resources and we have no assurances that additional funding will be available to be used for working capital, to further develop the Company’s mines and exploration properties, to fulfil certain contractual obligations and to fund corporate overhead costs. Although we have been successful in the past in obtaining financing through the sale of equity securities and, recently, through the sale of minerals, there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain adequate financing in the future or that the terms of such financing will be favourable, or that our sale of minerals will generate sufficient revenues. Failure to obtain such additional financing could result in a delay or indefinite postponement of mining activities, exploration and development of our projects and the possibility of loss of such properties.
Fluctuation in foreign currency exchange rates may affect our results.
The Company maintains its bank accounts in Canadian dollars, U.S. dollars and Mexican Pesos. The Company expects its revenue will continue to be in U.S. dollars while certain of its costs are incurred in Canadian dollars and Mexican Pesos. An appreciation in the Mexico Peso against the Canadian or U.S. dollar will increase the costs of carrying on operations. A decrease in the U.S. dollar against the Canadian dollar will result in a loss to the Company to the extent that the Company holds funds in U.S. dollars.
Variations in the market prices of metals may affect our ability to raise funding to continue exploration, development and mining of our properties. In addition, any significant fluctuations in metal prices will impact on our decision to accelerate or reduce our exploration activities.
Factors beyond our control may affect the marketability of any substances discovered. The prices of various metals have experienced significant movement over the last two years, and are affected by numerous factors beyond our control, including international economic and political trends, expectations of inflation, currency exchange fluctuations, interest rates and global or regional consumption patterns, speculative activities and increased production due to improved mining and production methods. The supply of and demand for metals are affected by various factors, including political events, economic conditions and production costs in major mineral producing regions. Variations in the market prices of metals may affect our ability to raise funding to continue exploration of our properties. In addition, any significant fluctuations in metal prices will impact on our decision to accelerate or reduce our exploration activities.
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We are dependent on the services of certain key officers, and the loss of these certain key personnel may have a materially adverse effect on our Company.
While engaged in the business of mining and exploring mineral properties in Mexico, the nature of our business, our ability to continue our exploration of potential projects, and to develop a competitive edge in the marketplace, depends, in large part, on our ability to attract and maintain qualified key management personnel. Competition for such personnel is intense, and we may not be able to attract and retain such personnel. Our growth has depended, and in the future will continue to depend, on the efforts of our key management personnel such as Robert A. Archer, our President, CEO and a director, Kaare G. Foy, Executive Chairman, Charles Brown, our Chief Operating Officer and Raakel Iskanius, our Chief Financial Officer. The loss of any of these people would have a material adverse effect on us. Currently, we have contracts with these key employees. We do not have key-man life insurance.
Conflicts of interest may arise as a result of our directors and officers being directors and officers of other natural resource companies.
Certain of our directors and officers may continue to be involved in a wide range of business activities through their direct and their indirect participation in corporations, partnerships or joint ventures. Situations may arise in connection with potential acquisitions and investments where the other interests of these director and officers may conflict with the interests of our Company. Our directors and officers with conflicts of interest will be subject to and will follow the procedures set out in the applicable corporate legislation.
Risks Relating to an Investment in our Securities
Trading in our common shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) is limited and any sporadic trading may make it difficult for our shareholders to sell their shares or liquidate their investments.
The trading price of our shares has been and may continue to be subject to wide fluctuations. Trading prices of our shares may fluctuate in response to a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control. In addition, the stock market in general, and the market for gold and silver exploration companies in particular, has experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of such companies. These broad market and industry factors may adversely affect the market price of our shares, regardless of our operating performance.
In the past, following periods of volatility in the market price of a company's securities, securities class-action litigation has often been instituted. Such litigation, if instituted, could result in substantial costs and a diversion of management's attention and resources.
Our By-laws indemnify our officers and directors against all costs, charges and expenses incurred by them.
Our By-laws contain provisions limiting the liability of our officers and directors for all acts, receipts, neglects or defaults of themselves and all of our other officers or directors for any other loss, damage or expense incurred by our Company which shall happen in the execution of the duties of such officers or directors, as do indemnification agreements between us and our directors. Such limitations on liability may reduce the likelihood of derivative litigation against our officers and directors and may discourage or deter our shareholders from suing our officers and directors based upon breaches of their duties to our Company, though such an action, if successful, might otherwise benefit our Company and our shareholders.
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Investors' interests in our Company will be diluted and investors may suffer dilution in their net book value per share if we issue incentive stock options to our employees, directors, officers and consultants.
We have granted, and in the future may grant, to directors, officers, insiders, and key employees options to purchase our common shares as non-cash incentives to those persons. Such options have been and may in future, be granted at exercise prices equal to market prices, or at prices as allowable under the policies of the TSX. The issuance of additional shares will cause our existing shareholders to experience dilution of their ownership interests.
Investors' interests in our Company will be diluted and investors may suffer dilution in their net book value per share if we issue additional shares or raise funds through the sale of equity securities.
As our operating expenses currently exceed our revenue from mineral sales, we may be required to issue additional shares to finance our operations and, depending on the outcome of our exploration programs and mining operations, may issue additional shares to finance additional programs and mining operations or to acquire additional properties. In the event that we are required to issue additional shares or decide to enter into joint ventures with other parties in order to raise financing through the sale of equity securities, investors' interests in our Company will be diluted and investors may suffer dilution in their net book value per share depending on the price at which such securities are sold. As at December 31, 2008, there are also outstanding common share purchase warrants and options exercisable into 10,623,074 common shares which, if exercised, would represent approximately 11.5% of our issued and outstanding shares. If all of these shares are exercised and issued, such issuance also will cause a reduction in the proportionate ownership and voting power of all other shareholders. The dilution may result in a decline in the market price of our shares.
We have a history of net losses and there is no assurance that we can reach profitability in the future.
We have a history of losses and there is no assurance that we can reach profitability in the future. We may require significant additional funding to meet our business objectives which include expanding our current mining facilities and operations, further developing our existing exploration properties and acquiring additional mineral properties. We may not be able to obtain additional financing on reasonable terms, or at all, depending on market conditions and the market sentiment towards the Company. If equity financing is required, then such financings could result in significant dilution to existing shareholders. If we are unable to obtain sufficient financing, we might have to dramatically reduce mining and exploration activities, and/or lose control of our projects. We have historically obtained the preponderance of our financing through the issuance of equity as there is no limit to the number of authorized common shares. There are no other plans to obtain financing, if needed, other than through equity financing.
U.S. investors may not be able to enforce their civil liabilities against us or our directors, controlling persons and officers.
It may be difficult to bring and enforce suits against us. We were incorporated under theCompany Act (British Columbia) and continued in the Yukon Territory under the Business Corporations Act(Yukon), and then continued to British Columbia under theBusiness Corporations Act (British Columbia) on July 9, 2004. All of our directors and officers are residents of countries other than the United States and all of our assets are located outside of the United States. Consequently, it may be difficult for United States investors to affect service of process in the United States upon those directors or officers who are not residents of the United States, or to realize in the United States upon judgments of United States courts predicated upon civil liabilities under the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. There is substantial doubt whether an original action could be brought successfully in Canada against any of such persons or us predicated solely upon such civil liabilities.
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Trading of our stock may be restricted by the SEC's "Penny Stock" regulations which may limit a stockholder's ability to buy and sell our stock.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has adopted regulations which generally define "penny stock" to be any equity security that has a market price (as defined) less than $5.00 per share or an exercise price of less than $5.00 per share, subject to certain exceptions. Our securities are covered by the penny stock rules, which impose additional sales practice requirements on broker-dealers who sell to persons other than established customers and "accredited investors". The term "accredited investor" refers generally to institutions with assets in excess of $5,000,000 or individuals with a net worth in excess of $1,000,000 or annual income exceeding $200,000 or $300,000 jointly with their spouse. The penny stock rules require a broker-dealer, prior to a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from the rules, to deliver a standardized risk disclosure document in a form prepared by the SEC which provides information about penny stocks and the nature and level of risks in the penny stock market. The broker-dealer also must provide the customer with current bid and offer quotations for the penny stock, the compensation of the broker-dealer and its salesperson in the transaction and monthly account statements showing the market value of each penny stock held in the customer's account. The bid and offer quotations, and the broker-dealer and salesperson compensation information, must be given to the customer orally or in writing prior to effecting the transaction and must be given to the customer in writing before or with the customer's confirmation. In addition, the penny stock rules require that prior to a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from these rules, the broker-dealer must make a special written determination that the penny stock is a suitable investment for the purchaser and receive the purchaser's written agreement to the transaction. These disclosure requirements may have the effect of reducing the level of trading activity in the secondary market for the stock that is subject to these penny stock rules. Consequently, these penny stock rules may affect the ability of broker-dealers to trade our securities. We believe that the penny stock rules discourage investor interest in, and limit the marketability of, our common stock.
U.S. investors could suffer adverse tax consequences if we are characterized as a passive foreign investment company.
We may be treated as a passive foreign investment company, or PFIC, for United States federal income tax purposes during the 2008 tax year or in subsequent years. We may be deemed a PFIC because previous financings combined with proceeds of future financings may produce, or be deemed to be held to produce, passive income. Additionally, U.S. citizens should review the section entitled "Taxation-U.S. Federal Income Taxation - Passive Foreign Investment Companies" contained in this annual report for a more detailed description of the PFIC rules and how those rules may affect their ownership of our capital shares.
If we are or become a PFIC, many of the U.S. shareholders will be subject to the following adverse tax consequences:
- | They will be taxed at the highest ordinary income tax rates in effect during their holding period on certain distributions on our capital shares, and gains from the sale or other disposition of our capital shares; |
- | They will be required to pay interest on taxes allocable to prior periods; and |
- | The tax basis of our capital shares will not be increased to fair market value at the date of their date. |
We do not expect to declare or pay any dividends.
We have not declared or paid any dividends on our common stock since our inception, and we do not anticipate paying any such dividends for the foreseeable future.
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ITEM 4 Information on the Company
A. History and Development of Great Panther
We were originally incorporated under theCompany Act (British Columbia) in 1965 under the name Lodestar Mines Ltd. Since that time, we have had the following name changes:
- | in 1980, to Lodestar Energy Inc. |
- | in 1985, to Controlled Environmental Farming Int'l Ltd. |
- | in 1987, to International Controlled Investments Inc. |
- | in 1991, to New Age Ventures Inc. |
- | in January 1998, to Great Panther Inc. |
- | in October 2003, to Great Panther Resources Limited. |
On March 22, 1996 we continued under theBusiness Corporation Act (Yukon). On July 9, 2004, we continued to British Columbia under theBusiness Corporation Act (British Columbia).
We have offices located at Suites 350 and 2100, 1177 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6E 2K3, Canada. Our telephone number is 604-608-1766, and our facsimile number is 604-608-1744.
Our Company is currently a reporting issuer under the securities laws of British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario.
On June 18, 1980, our common shares were listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (formerly known as the CDNX, and the Vancouver Stock Exchange). Our trading symbol is "GPR", and until February 27, 2005, we were classified by the TSX Venture Exchange as a Tier 2 company.
On October 2, 2003, we consolidated our common shares whereby every ten common shares before consolidation became one common share after consolidation.
On February 28, 2006, the TSX Venture Exchange elevated our classification from a Tier 2 company to a Tier 1 company.
On June 1, 2006 we closed a private placement offering (the "Offering"), with Jennings Capital Inc. (“Jennings”), as underwriter, of 5,000,000 units of the Company ("Units"), on an underwritten basis, at a price of $2.00 per Unit to raise gross proceeds of $10,000,000. Jennings elected to exercise the over-allotment option to sell up to an additional 2,500,000 units at a price of $2.00 per unit for gross aggregate proceeds of $15,000,000. Jennings was paid a commission of $958,750 and received broker warrants equal to 6.5% of the number of units issued under the Offering.
On November 14, 2006, our common shares began trading on the TSX with the trading symbol “GPR”. Subsequently, we were de-listed from theTSX Venture Exchange.
On January 23, 2009 we closed a private placement offering of 5,125,000 units of the Company (“Units”) at a price of $0.20 per Unit to raise gross proceeds of $1,025,000. Each Unit comprises of one common share and one-half of one share purchase warrant. Each whole warrant entitles the holder, upon exercise, to acquire one common share of the Company at a price of $0.35 per share until January 22, 2010. The Company authorized and created 169,050 non-transferable share purchase warrants (the “Finder’s
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Warrants”) to purchase up to 169,050 common shares and entitling the holder to purchase one common share at a price of $0.35 until January 22, 2010.
Topia Mine
Effective February 18, 2004, we entered into the Topia Option Agreement, which granted us the right and option, for a term of one year, to purchase 100% of the ownership rights in and to all the fixed assets, machinery, equipment (includes the mill, buildings, offices, houses and quarters for the workers) and Topia Mining Concessions located in the Municipality of Topia, State of Durango, Mexico from Cia Minera des Canelas y Topia, as optionor, by making cash payments totalling US $1,737,084 as follows:
(a) | US $100,000 within 10 days of the date of registration at the Mining registry of the option agreement; | |
(b) | US $150,000 within 5 days of the date the Company notifies the optionor of its decision to exercise the option (notice must be given within 45 days of the one year term); | |
(c) | US $540,165 on the date of signing of the purchase agreement (June 30, 2005); | |
(d) | Three annual payments of US $300,000, US $300,000 and US $346,919 each of the first, second and third year, respectively, commencing 18 months after the date the Company notifies the optionor of its decision to exercise the option. |
All payments due to the optionor were made as of December 31, 2007.
In addition to the payments to the optionor, we agreed to assume the debt encumbering the property, totalling US $814,594 upon signing of the purchase agreement. The debt owing was secured by the Topia Mine assets. The balance of the debt is repayable out of production from concentrate sales as a 10% Net Smelter Return. After the debt was repaid, there is no further NSR. As of December 31, 2007, the remaining debt balance was fully paid and there were no outstanding conditions to retain title to the property. The Company has surface rights for the land on which the plant sits and mineral rights for the rest of the property.
As at December 31, 2008, there are no Net Smelter Return royalties, or other royalties payable, and there are no work commitments.
On March 8, 2006, the Company purchased a 100% interest in the Arcoiris concession. The agreement requires cash payments of US$20,000 (paid) upon signing of the purchase agreement and additional staggered payments totalling US$280,000 (paid). The Arcoiris concession is a strategic claim that is contiguous with the existing Topia Mine Property. The 100 hectare concession contains portions of the strike extension and down-dip projection of the Dos Amigos Vein that the Company has already started developing on its own ground.
Guanajuato Mine
On October 25, 2005 we signed a formal purchase agreement with the Sociedad Cooperativa Minero Metalúrgica Santa Fe de Guanajuato to purchase 100% of the ownership rights in a group of producing silver-gold mines in the Guanajuato Mining District. The total purchase price was US$7,250,000, which included 1,107 hectares in two main properties, the 1,200 tonne-per-day plant, workshops and administration facilities, complete mining infrastructure, mining equipment, and certain surface rights. At December 31, 2005 we paid US$3,625,000. In 2006, we paid the remaining balance of US$3,625,000.
On May 15, 2006, we announced the purchase of 3.88 hectares of real estate adjacent to the plant at our Guanajuato Silver-Gold Mine Complex. The land was purchased from the Sociedad Cooperativa Minero
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Metalúrgica Santa Fe de Guanajuato, the same Cooperative from which the mines were purchased in 2006, for a total of US$690,425. A payment of US$201,825 was made at the time of the signing of the purchase agreement and the remaining balance of US$488,600 was paid in the second half of 2006. The Company has clear title to the property. The decision to buy the extra land was taken in order to facilitate any future expansion of the plant facilities and to protect the plant site from any possible development nearby.
On December 27, 2007, the Company purchased an additional 0.2804 hectares of land immediately adjacent to the plant and below our tailings dam at the Guanajuato Mine Complex. The land was purchased from the Sociedad Cooperativa Minero Metalúrgica Santa Fe de Guanajuato, the same Cooperative from which the mines were purchased in 2006, for a total of US$320,530. Payments were made in two instalments, US$45,790 and US$274,740, on March 31, 2008 and June 30, 2008, respectively. The land was primarily purchased in order to protect the area from any possible development. The Company has received clear title to the new property.
As at December 31, 2008, there are no outstanding conditions to retain title to the property. The Company has mineral and some surface rights.
Mapimi Project
On September 11, 2006, the Company signed an option agreement to purchase 100% of the ownership rights to seventeen mining concessions collectively known as the Mapimi Project (formerly “Km 66”) in eastern Durango State, Mexico. In consideration for the right and purchase option the Company must make staged payments totaling US$3,000,000 and issue 500,000 common shares over a four year period. The vendors retain a 3% NSR of which, each 0.5%, up to a maximum of 2%, can be purchased by the Company for US$500,000. As at December 31, 2008, US$800,000 has been paid and 500,000 common shares have been issued.
The Concessions are valid for 50 years from the time of grant and most are valid until 2053.
San Antonio Project
(1) Santo Nino Concessions
Effective February 11, 2004, we entered into the Santo Nino Option Agreement, which granted us the right and option, for a period of three years, to purchase 100% of the ownership rights in and to the Santo Nino Mining Concession located in the Guadalupe y Calvo Mining District, State of Chihuahua, Mexico from Mr. Alfredo Rodriguez Chávez, as optionor, by making staged cash payments totalling US $165,000. All of the payments were made as of December 31, 2007.
On February 2, 2007, we signed an option agreement with Altair Ventures Inc. (“Altair”). Terms of the agreement allow Altair to acquire a 70% interest in the four mining claims named “San Antonio”, “Iran”, “Chirpa”, and “Santo Nino”, by making staggered cash payments of US$200,000, issuing a total of 200,000 Altair common shares to Great Panther and incurring a minimum of US$1,000,000 of exploration expenditures over a three-year period. As at December 31, 2008, US$60,000 and 150,000 shares of Altair have been received in accordance with the agreement.
There is no underlying Net Smelter Return royalty or other royalties and no work commitments on the concession.
(2) San Taco Concessions
Effective February 28, 2004, we entered into the San Taco Option Agreement, which granted us the right and option, for a period of three years plus 30 days, to purchase 100% of the ownership rights in and to
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the San Taco Mining Concessions located in the Guadalupe y Calvo Mining District, State of Chihuahua, Mexico from Carlos Teodoro Ortiz Rodriquez, Abelardo Garza Hernanadez and Minera San Miguel de los Tarros, S.A. de C.V., as optionors, by making staged cash payments totalling US$965,000.
As of December 31, 2005 we had paid US$125,000 in accordance with the above.
Subsequent to December 31, 2005, we decided not to actively commit to further exploration of the San Taco property, and as a result the value of the property as at December 31, 2005, was determined to be nil. As such, the acquisition costs associated with the property (US$403,634) was expensed as part of the write down of property cost and the expense was recognized in the year ended December 31, 2005.
During 2006, the Company elected to discontinue exploration of the San Taco property and abandoned the project.
Virimoa Project
On June 13, 2005, we entered into an option agreement to purchase 100% of the ownership rights in and to two mining claims designated as the Virimoa Property, located in the Topia Mining District, State of Durango, Mexico from Minera Acero del Fuego, S.A. de C.V., as optionor. Under the terms of the option agreement, we were to compensate the optionor of the Virimoa Property by making four cash payments totalling US$300,000 (US$50,000 paid) over a period of three years. In a concurrent agreement, we were required to issue a total of 300,000 common shares (150,000 issued) to the optionor. If we exercised this option, the optionor would retain a 2% NSR, half of which could be purchased by us for US$1 million.
On May 30, 2007, the Company provided notice that it was terminating the option agreement on the Virimoa property in Durango State.
B. Business Overview
We are an active mining and exploration company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”), trading under the symbol “GPR”. Our current activities are focused on the mining of precious and base metals from our two wholly owned mines in Mexico. In addition, we are also involved in the acquisition, exploration and development of other properties in Mexico that have a potential for success, based upon the recommendation of our technical director and professional advisors, and the assessment of our board of directors.
We have two primary mining properties: (1) Topia Mine and (2) Guanajuato Mine. We have two primary exploration properties: (1) Mapimi and (2) San Antonio.
Primary Mining Properties
(1) Topia Mine
The property is located in northwest Durango State and consists of four groups of mining concessions covering a total area of 6,399 hectares. All are owned 100% by our Mexican subsidiary, Minera Mexicana el Rosario, S.A. de C.V.
The property covers most of the Topia Mining District where mineralization consists of epithermal silver-gold-lead-zinc veins hosted in andesitic volcanic rocks. More than a dozen sub-parallel veins are known to exist at Topia and some extend for more than 4 kilometres along strike. Vein widths are typically narrow, 0.2 to 1.0 metre.
Great Panther purchased the mine in 2005 and commenced mining in January 2006. In March 2006, we reached a significant milestone in becoming a primary silver producer with our first shipment of
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concentrates from operations. Production was ramped up steadily until reaching approximately 3,000 tonnes per month in late 2007. Custom milling for local miners helps to utilize the plant’s capacity which operates at approximately 170 tonnes per day.
In the fourth quarter of 2008, we worked with the mine contractors to re-evaluate the mining plan and optimize production capability and profitability. While 10 individual mines were closed during this period of re-evaluation, 8 of these were re-opened subsequent to year-end. Underground development and exploitation is now continuing on 12 mineralized vein structures.
In 2009, operating cash flow will be supplemented by revenues from increased custom milling for other small mines in the Topia District. Exploration is expected to be restricted mainly to underground development on the higher grade veins. Little surface drilling is required at present as the Company has delineated sufficient resources for at least seven years of operation at current production levels, with potential to increase this with more detailed drilling in the future.
Production
For the year ended December 31, 2008, cumulative ore throughput increased 5% from 33,605 tonnes in 2007 to 35,318 tonnes in 2008. Metal production increased 10% from 625,726 Ag eq oz in 2007 to 687,238 Ag eq oz in 2008 exceeding the 650,000 Ag eq oz production target for the year.
A summary of production at Topia for 2008 is as follows:
FY08-Q1 | FY08-Q2 | FY08-Q3 | FY08-Q4 | TOTAL | |
Tonnes milled | 9,457 | 8,649 | 9,701 | 7,511 | 35,318 |
Silver ounces | 86,476 | 85,320 | 105,235 | 89,168 | 366,199 |
Gold ounces | 220 | 192 | 271 | 129 | 812 |
Lead tonnes | 217 | 225 | 246 | 188 | 876 |
Zinc tonnes | 237 | 218 | 370 | 249 | 1,074 |
Silver equivalent ounces (Ag eq oz)1 | 164,507 | 160,557 | 208,589 | 153,585 | 687,238 |
1 | For 2008, silver equivalent ounces for each metal were established using commodity prices of: US$800 per oz, US$16 per oz, US$1.15 per lb, and US$1.00 per lb; for gold, silver, lead & zinc, respectively, and applied to the recovered metal content of the concentrates that were produced by the two operations. Average recoveries of 87.1% for Ag, 84.9% for Au, 91.1% for Pb, and 85.6% for Zn were realized which resulted in the production of 366,199 oz Ag, 812 oz Au, 1,930,251 lbs Pb, and 2,368,268 lbs Zn for a silver equivalent production of 687,238 ounces. |
Production continued to improve as the focus shifted to production stoping with exploratory development of higher grade mining areas of Argentina and Don Benito veins. New higher grade veins were accessed and explored including the east extension of the Cantarranas vein, and the Recompensa, San Gregorio and Rosario veins.
The average ore grade for 2008 was 0.84 g/t gold, 370 g/t silver, 2.72% lead, and 3.41% zinc compared to 0.71 g/t gold, 300 g/t silver, 2.44% lead and 3.04% zinc in 2007. Plant performance was also improved with metal recoveries at 84.9%, 87.1%, 91.1% and 85.6% for gold, silver, lead and zinc respectively, up from 84.3%, 86.1%, 89.6% and 82.9% in 2007. Concentrate quality was also improved with the silver content of the lead concentrate at 6,793 g/t, up from 5,831 g/t in 2007.
As a result of the temporary closure of 10 of the smaller mines, the overall tonnage from the Topia operation decreased by 23% in the fourth quarter, compared to the third quarter. Overall, head grades from the remaining mines increased, resulting in less metal output but doing so at an operating profit. The contracts for all mining contractors were terminated for the fourth quarter. Due to the rugged terrain
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at Topia, access to the mines is provided via tunnels into the sides of the mountains and there are no water issues, so closing individual mines is simply a matter of removing any mobile equipment and they can be reopened at any time.
In addition to the material processed for the Company’s account, an additional 11,729 tonnes were processed for various local miners. Custom milling utilizes excess capacity and provides additional income.
Cash cost of sales was $6,113,947 for 2008. This includes costs the Company incurred in the direct purchase of minerals from various independent miners.
(2) Guanajuato Mine
The Guanajuato silver-gold mine complex in Guanajuato, Mexico consists of three principal mines, the Valenciana, Cata and Rayas. These mines occupy the heart of the 25-kilometre long Veta Madre (Mother Lode) structure that controls the majority of the silver-gold mineralization in the Guanajuato Mine District. These mines are amongst the most historic and best known in Mexico as silver was discovered in the area in 1548 and estimates of historical production range from 700 million to 1.5 billion ounces of silver, and 4 to 7 million ounces of gold.
Great Panther purchased the mines in 2005, after many years of under-capitalization, and immediately set out to prove up new resources, rehabilitate the mines and refurbish the plant. Production commenced in June of 2006 and has increased steadily since that time. The plant is presently processing approximately 13,000 tonnes per month but has a capacity to more than double that.
From the fourth quarter of 2005 to the end of 2008, the surface diamond drilling program at Guanajuato was highly successful in identifying and delineating new zones of silver-gold mineralization. These discoveries highlight the lack of previous exploration on the property and the potential for new zones to be found throughout the mine. In addition, the easy access to these zones from existing underground workings and the utilization of existing infrastructure means that these zones can be developed quickly and cost-effectively.
Underground drilling at Guanajuato during the same time frame has mostly been conducted in the Cata Mine area and was designed to demonstrate the continuity of the Cata Clavo ore body to depth below the existing mine workings. The program has been extremely successful and will be continued in 2009.
In 2008, in addition to the Rayas and Cata Mines, mining was conducted in the San Vicente North, Promontorio and Guanajuatito areas, which are accessible by ramps. San Vicente North is adjacent to the southeast side of the old Animas Mine, where surface drilling by Great Panther in 2006 intersected zones of previously unknown high grade silver-gold mineralization. Mining at Guanajuatito is pursuing a zone of high grade mineralization intersected by the Company’s surface drilling in late 2005 and 2006. At Promontorio, development is progressing to access an area from where encouraging drill intersections were reported during 2007. At year-end 2008, mining at San Vicente and the development at Promontorio were temporarily on hold to preserve capital. Mining at the Cata Mine is focused on an area below the previously worked Cata Clavo where recent drilling results indicate that the high grade mineralization extends to a depth of at least 600 metres.
In 2008, mining at Rayas focused on development and production from the recovery of higher grade remnants and pillars. The latter included the development of the flatter lying vein which splits off from the main Veta Madre in the formerly mined San Pio area of Rayas. Diamond drilling to explore for extensions of, and better define, the Cata Clavo and other higher grade areas will continue from stations located adjacent to current and planned underground workings.
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In fourth quarter of 2008, plant performance was excellent and metal recoveries were the highest to date. The quality of concentrates also improved in this quarter.
In 2009, the Company expects continued improved production and reduction in unit costs. Mine site exploration was temporarily suspended in the fourth quarter of 2008, but will be resumed as soon as practical, with the focus on the delineation of deep mineralization in the Rayas area. Deep drilling in the Cata Clavo in 2008 was very successful in extending high grade silver-gold mineralization to a depth of 600 metres and much of the mine’s current production comes from this area.
Principal Capital Expenditures
On August 18, 2008, two underground loaders, known as scooptrams were purchased as part of the mine improvement plan. The units will assist the mine in achieving an expected 40% increase in production within the next 12 months. Capital lease obligations are $436,498 for 2009 and $456,788 for 2010 totaling $893,286.
Production
After a period of preliminary plant and mine rehabilitation, Great Panther commenced production in June of 2006 on easily accessible low grade stockwork zones. The development of high grade zones did not proceed as quickly as originally anticipated. However, in 2007 these did reach the point where they were contributing to production. As such, the average head grades at Guanajuato remained low for 2006 and only slowly improved through most of 2007. With increasing production from the higher grade areas of the mines and the vigilant implementation of grade control procedures, the average grade for the mine improved significantly such that in December 2007, grades were more than twice what they were at the start of the year.
The plant at Guanajuato contains three ball mills. The Company initiated production with one ball mill, brought a second on stream in November 2006, and commissioned the third ball mill in 2007. A metallurgical testwork program, directed by a senior Canadian metallurgist, was initiated in the fourth quarter of 2007 to assess the plant upgrades necessary to improve plant recovery and concentrate quality. Improvements were experienced in 2008 as a result of this program.
For the year ended December 31, 2008, cumulative throughput decreased 24% from 203,968 tonnes in 2007 to 155,079 tonnes in 2008. However, metal production increased 58% to 1,122,482 Ag eq oz from 710,903 Ag eq oz in 2007 and exceeded the 2008 target of 1,100,000 Ag eq oz. The mining strategy, which had been changed towards the end of 2007, focused on production from the higher grade, cut and fill stoping in the Guanajuatito North Zone and the Cata Clavo which were supplemented by mining of ore remnants and pillars in the Rayas, San Vicente and Promontorio areas. Strict grade control procedures were implemented throughout which had the impact of limiting ore supply to the mill, but at much improved grades.
The average ore grade for 2008 was 1.40 g/t gold and 203 g/t silver compared to 0.86 g/t gold and 113 g/t silver in 2007. Plant performance was also much improved with metal recoveries at 78.6% and 83.7% for gold and silver respectively, up from 71.0% and 72.8% in 2007, and concentrate gold and silver contents at 61 g/t and 9,476 g/t respectively, up from 31 g/t and 4,315 g/t in 2007.
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A summary of production at Guanajuato for 2008 is as follows:
FY08-Q1 | FY08-Q2 | FY08-Q3 | FY08-Q4 | TOTAL | |
Tonnes milled | 40,393 | 38,951 | 37,237 | 38,498 | 155,079 |
Silver ounces | 198,663 | 201,815 | 177,810 | 269,795 | 848,083 |
Gold ounces | 1,369 | 1,474 | 1,166 | 1,479 | 5,488 |
Silver equivalent ounces (Ag eq oz)1 | 267,132 | 275,515 | 236,097 | 343,738 | 1,122,482 |
1 | For 2008, silver equivalent ounces for each metal were established using commodity prices of: US$800 per oz, US$16 per oz, for gold and silver respectively, and applied to the recovered metal content of the concentrates that were produced by the two operations. Average recoveries of 83.7% for Ag and 78.6% for Au were realized which resulted in the production of 848,083 oz Ag and 5,488 oz Au for a silver equivalent production of 1,122,482 ounces. |
As metal prices declined in the latter half of 2008, ore cut-off values increased, forcing several changes to the Guanajuato operations. A number of cost reductions were implemented and the cut-off grade was raised to 225 and 250 g/t Ag equivalent depending on the cost structure of individual mines. Production from the lower grade San Vicente Mine was terminated and production from the Promontorio Mine was also deferred as this area still requires some underground development and was not yet generating an operating profit. Contractors and their equipment were moved from these areas into the higher grade and profitable Rayas Mine. Both San Vicente and Promontorio are close to surface and accessible by ramp, such that no care and maintenance is required and they can be re-opened at any time in the future. In response to the increase in electricity rates, the Guanajuato plant is now operating at a higher daily throughput but only 4 days per week.
Two new 3.5 yard scoop trams were deployed in the higher grade areas of Cata and Guanajuatito at the end of the third quarter of 2008 and, as anticipated, have enhanced development and production efficiency from these areas such that the fourth quarter resulted in higher metal production.
Mining at Guanajuatito focused on the North Zone and, at Rayas, on development and production from the recovery of higher grade remnants and pillars. The latter included the development of a flatter lying vein which splits off from the main Veta Madre in the formerly mined San Pio area at Rayas. Diamond drilling to explore for extensions of, and better define, the Cata Clavo and other higher grade areas will continue from stations located adjacent to current and planned underground workings.
At Guanajuato, total production costs for the fiscal period ended December 31, 2008 totalled $12,030,276. The Company anticipates 2009 production costs, on a per silver ounce basis, at Guanajuato to be lower through mine site efficiencies as well as with the achievement of higher grades.
Geological Justification of the Exploration Project
Geological exploration at the Guanajuato Mine project is justified broadly based on the following. After a complete review of over 65 years of accumulated geological mapping, detailed sampling, and drilling by the former operator, the Company’s geological team outlined numerous areas in late 2005 for further detailed exploration either by surface or underground core drilling, detailed geological mapping and re-sampling. Key areas that were and continue to be explored are listed below. Core drilling related to immediate mine planning / exploitation is not considered in this review.
San Vicente and Animas: The 2005 review of historic data revealed that underground sampling with economically significant results had not been exploited. As this ore was readily accessible from surface, it was the first area to undergo geological mapping and re-sampling during 2005 and 2006. In 2006, a
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surface core drilling program intersected economically significant results leading to re-commencement of underground exploitation in 2007. Exploitation in the San Vicente and Animas areas is on-going.
Guanajuatito:The 2005 review of historic data revealed that underground sampling and surface core drilling with economically significant results had not been exploited. As such, the underground workings were re-mapped, and sampled to confirm previous results. On surface, a core drilling program was conducted in late 2005 and 2006. Based on the favourable results mining and mine development recommenced in 2007. The geology department at the Guanajuato Mine continues exploration activities with daily sampling, geological mapping and development underground core drilling.
Promontorio: The 2005 review of historic data revealed that underground sampling with economically significant results had not been exploited. Surface geological map and rock sampling was completed in 2005. Surface core drilling in 2006 intersected economically significant mineralization and was followed up in 2007 with more detailed core drilling. Mine development and exploitation into the Promontorio area commenced in early 2008 from two underground levels accessed from the San Vicente area.
Cata: The 2005 review of historic data revealed that underground sampling and underground core drilling with economically significant results had not been exploited. A deep underground drilling program, below the 1,700 metre elevation (previous lower level of exploitation), to in-fill and expand the previous operator’s drilling at Cata commenced in 2007 and is expected to be completed in October 2008. Economically significant mineralization has been intersected in many of the Cata deep drill holes, as reported in various news releases of 2007 and 2008. Several other areas of economic significance were underground-geologically mapped and re-sampled in 2006. As there has been no exploitation in these areas, the mine geological staff is presently conducting an 11-hole drill program to outline economically significant mineralization. Exploitation in the deepest parts of Cata, and below the previous operator’s work, re-commenced in 2007 and is ongoing with a program a ramping, sub-level development and cut-and-fill exploitation.
Valenciana:The 2005 review of historic data revealed that underground sampling and underground core drilling with economically significant results had not been exploited. A small program of underground geological mapping and sampling in 2006 confirmed the 2005 historic review. Of particular note are that multiple veins were mapped and extremely high grade silver-gold values were noted on the margins of old “Spanish” stopes. Due to logistical limitations in re-establishing services into Valenciana, detailed underground geological mapping and sampling was delayed until August 2008. Underground core drilling, below the 1,700 metre level, is expected to commence in March 2009.
Tepeyac: The 2005 review of historic data revealed that underground development above the 2,000 metre elevation was minimal with no evidence of surface drilling. This gap in exploration along the Veta Madre was seen as an excellent opportunity to potentially drill off a shallow section of economically significant mineralization. A core drilling program consisting of eight (8) holes was completed during 2007 with no significant results.
Maravillas: The 2005 review of historic data revealed that underground development above the 2,000 metre elevation was minimal with no evidence of surface drilling. This gap in exploration along the Veta Madre, along the west flank of the old “Spanish” Cata orebody workings, was seen as an excellent opportunity to potentially drill off a shallow section of economically significant mineralization. Six (6) core holes were completed in 2007 with two (2) containing significant silver-gold mineralization in the Veta Madre. A follow up surface core drilling program of four (4) core-holes will be completed in early 2009.
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Rayas: The 2005 review of historic data revealed that underground sampling and underground core drilling with economically significant results had not been exploited. Exploitation is on-going with back filling of old stopes and mining of old pillars. Renewed exploration of the deep potential at Rayas, below the 1,650 level of previous exploitation, was delayed due to the need to de-water the deep portions of the Rayas area, and constraints due to equipment priorities. Presently an exploration cross cut is being driven so that deep underground drilling can commence below the area of exploitation. The cross cut will take another six (6) months to fully complete but drilling is expected to commence in October 2008 when the first drill station is completed.
Funding for Exploration Program
The exploration program at Guanajuato will be funded through cash flow from operations.
Individuals Responsible for Conducting Proposed Exploration Work and Their Qualifications
Robert F. Brown, P. Eng
The exploration program will be guided by Robert F. Brown, P. Eng (Province of British Columbia, Canada) who is both the Company qualified person as defined under NI43-101 and Vice President of Exploration.
Mr. Brown gained insight into exploration geology and on-site mine geology working 15 years with LAC Minerals Ltd, a former Canadian mining company, and then another 14 years with various junior exploration companies, in Canada, Mexico, Ecuador, Peru, Argentina and Indonesia before joining the Company in 2004.
Sampling - Collection, Preparation, Analytical Procedures, and Quality Assurance/Quality Control Protocols
Core and rock samples are brought to surface every day from various underground workings to two central gathering points. Mine channel samples are sorted in a secure building within the Guanajuato complex and hand delivered to an on-site, independently operated laboratory. Core samples are delivered to a large secure warehouse complex within the Guanajuato complex where they undergo detailed logging and are cut in half with a core saw, with half the core bagged for assay and the other half stored securely in a locked building. Exploration geologists add blank and standard samples into the sequence of bagged core, and deliver the samples to the laboratory.
Mine channel samples are collected daily by trained samplers under the supervision of mine geologists. Mine geologists mark up the underground locations where the samples are to be taken by the samplers. The samplers label the sample bags, collect the samples, and seal the bags underground. The samplers then carry the samples to surface and to the secure area. Mine geologists then sort the samples and add blank and standard samples into the sequence of samples, and deliver the samples to the laboratory.
In the core warehouse, geologists log the core. This includes detailed geotechnical measurements, geological logging following a standardized geological legend, and marking the core for core saw splitting. After the core is split, the geologists describe in detail each sample to be taken, then label, tag, fill, and seal each sample bag with the appropriate core. Samples are delivered daily to the laboratory.
Rock and core geological and sample details are entered daily into a dedicated geological database located on the Guanajuato Mine computer server.
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The Guanajuato assay laboratory was constructed in 2006-07 in an old warehouse within the Guanajuato Mine complex. It was designed by SGS Canada Inc., an internationally recognized analytical company (SGS Group). Laboratory equipment was procured from sources recommended by SGS, and construction was overseen by SGS. The Guanajuato Mine laboratory was the 101st independent laboratory designed and built by SGS. The laboratory is owned by the Company and independently operated by SGS.
All samples collected at the mine are assayed at the on-site laboratory. All samples are assayed for silver and gold using a combination of fire assay and atomic absorption finish. Select samples including mine concentrate samples use a combination of fire assay and gravimetric finish for silver and gold assaying. Certain exploration samples are also analyzed for copper, lead, zinc, arsenic, and antimony using aqua regia digestion and atomic absorption finish. Assay results are stored in an onsite computer server, and e-mailed daily to the Guanajuato Mine computer server. Assays are then merged into the mine database.
Assay quality assurance is guaranteed by the company geologists inserting blank, standard and split samples into the sample sequence. Standard samples are inserted one every twenty samples, while blanks and splits are inserted one every 40 samples. This is apart from internal quality assurance measures taken by SGS.
Primary Exploration Properties
(1) Mapimi Project
The Mapimi Project (formerly Km66) is an advanced stage exploration project that hosts significant silver-lead-zinc-gold mineralization and a recently discovered molybdenum deposit. The Company’s goal at Mapimi has been to define a bulk tonnage deposit amenable to open pit mining, thereby significantly enhancing Great Panther's growing portfolio of silver projects. The property consists of 17 concessions in northeast Durango State and is bisected by a paved highway approximately 100 kilometres from Peñoles' smelter at Torreon, so infrastructure is considered excellent.
Exploration on the Mapimi property since 2006 has consisted of detailed geological mapping and re-sampling of outcrops, adits and trenches; an airborne geophysical survey and a ground induced polarization geophysical survey; and 12,448 metres of core drilling in 60 holes. The drilling on the La Gloria and Las Palmitas Ag-Pb-Zn Zones, which commenced in December 2006, increased the confidence level of the initial resource, resulting in a new Indicated Mineral Resource estimated at 6,585,900 tonnes grading 28g/t silver, 0.09g/t gold, 0.41% lead and 1.14% Zn and an Inferred Mineral Resource at 2,027,900 tonnes grading 34g/t silver, 0.13g/t gold, 0.54% lead and 0.81% zinc.
Drill-testing of other targets on the property resulted in the discovery of a buried molybdenum deposit, named the Bulls-Eye Zone, and of high grade Ag-Pb-Zn mineralization in an area named the North Zone.
(2) San Antonio Project
The mining concessions comprising the San Antonio project cover an area of 11,946 hectares, and are located in the municipality of Guadalupe y Calvo, State of Chihuahua, Mexico, approximately 162 kilometres south-southwest of the city of Hidalgo de Parral, Chihuahua, and 265 kilometres southwest of the city of Chihuahua.
Multiple targets have been identified by Great Panther at San Antonio within a variety of geological settings, including gold-copper veins, breccias and stockworks, as well as silver-lead-zinc veins. A total of 20 separate mineralized structures have been identified to date. Underground sampling by the Company in 2004 along the Santo Niño Zone returned an average grade of 7.75 g/t gold over an average width of 3.03 metres along a 25 metre strike length. Great Panther previously had an option to acquire a 100% interest in the Santo Niño concession and has exercised that right and transferred the title. The
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Company now owns a 100% undivided interest in the entire San Antonio package. (In 2007, the Company elected to discontinue exploration of the San Taco property, which previously formed part of the project). As the project is considered to be a non-core asset to the Company, it has been optioned to Altair Ventures Incorporated.
Revenues
The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of concentrates based on the market metal prices and mineral content when title to the concentrates transfers to the customer, which generally occurs on the date of delivery. Revenue is recorded net of treatment and refining costs paid to counter parties under terms of the off take arrangements. Revenue from the sale of the concentrates are subject to adjustment upon final settlement based upon metal prices, weights and assays. Adjustments to revenue for metal prices are recorded monthly and any other adjustments are recorded on final settlement.
For the year ended December 31, 2008, we earned $22,445,438 in revenue from our Topia and Guanajuato mining operations. Revenues for 2007 were $15,523,094.
Market Prices of Gold
The market prices of gold, silver and other precious metals have historically fluctuated widely and are affected by numerous global factors beyond our control. A decline in such market prices may have an adverse effect on revenues we receive from the sale of minerals. A decline in prices will also reduce our exploration efforts and make it more difficult to raise capital.
Seasonality of our Business
Our business is not expected to be seasonal and our mining and milling operations will be carried out year round.
Sources and Availability of Raw Materials
Other than water and power, both of which are readily available and do not experience any material price volatility, we do not require any raw materials with which to carry out our business.
Patents and Licenses; Industrial Commercial and Financial Contracts; and New Manufacturing Processes
In conducting our business operations, we are not dependent on any patented or licensed processes, technology, industrial, commercial or financial contracts or new manufacturing processes.
Competitive Conditions
We compete with other mining companies, some of which have greater financial resources and technical facilities, for the acquisition of mineral interests, as well as for the recruitment and retention of qualified employees.
Government Regulations
The mining industry in Mexico is controlled by the Secretaria de Economia – Dirección General de Minas which is located and administered from Mexico City. Mining concessions in Mexico may only be obtained by Mexican nationals or Mexican companies incorporated under Mexican laws. Mexican law grants concessions under the denominations of exploration or exploitation. The construction of processing plants requires further governmental approval.
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The holder of an exploration concession is granted the exclusive right to explore a designated area. Exploration concessions are granted for a period of six years from the date of their recording in the Public Registry of Mining. Exploration concessions are not renewable after the end of the initial term. The holder of an exploration concession must file an application for an exploitation concession before the end of the six year term. If the concessionaire does not comply with this requirement, the concession will be cancelled. Exploitation concessions are granted for 50 years from the date of their registration with the Public Registry of Mining to the exploration concession holder as a matter of law if all regulations have been complied with. During the final five years of exploitation, the concession holder may apply for one additional 50 year period, which is automatically granted provided all other concession terms had been complied with.
In accordance with the Federal Duties Law ("LFD") the holder of an exploration or exploitation concession is obligated to pay biannual duties in January and July of each year based upon the number of hectares covered by the concession area.
Concessionaires for both exploration and exploitation must perform work each year that must begin within ninety days of the concession being granted. Concessionaires must file each May, proof of the work performed. Non-compliance with these requirements is cause for cancellation only after the Ministry of Mines communicates in writing to the Concessionaire of any such default, granting the Concessionaire a specified time frame in which to remedy the default.
There are no limitations on the total amount of surface covered by exploration or exploitation concessions or on the amount of land held by an individual or company. Excessive accumulation of land is regulated indirectly through the duties levied on the property and the production requirements as outlined above.
Mexican mining law does not require royalties to the Government, except for the discovery premium related to National Mineral Reserves, Concessions in Marine Zones and Allotments to the Council of Mineral Resources.
C. Organizational Structure
As at the date of this annual report, we have five wholly-owned subsidiaries. They are:
1. | Minera Mexicana el Rosario, S.A. de C.V. (“MMR”), a company incorporated in the United States of Mexico. This Mexican subsidiary holds our Mexican property interests. This Mexican subsidiary was acquired by us on February 5, 2004. |
2. | Metalicos de Durango, S.A. de C.V., a company incorporated in the United States of Mexico on July 12, 2005. This operational subsidiary is responsible for the day-to-day affairs and operations of the Topia Mine. |
3. | Minera de Villa Seca, S.A. de C.V., a company incorporated in the United States of Mexico on October 5, 2005. This operational subsidiary is responsible for the day-to-day affairs and operations of the Guanajuato Mine. |
4. | Exploraciones Mineras el Rosario, S.A. de C.V., a company incorporated in the United States of Mexico on February 20, 2007 is responsible for the exploration and further development of the Company’s mineral properties. |
5. | New Age Investments Inc., a company incorporated in the Province of Alberta. This company is presently inactive. |
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D. Property, Plant and Equipment
We rent executive and administrative office space located at Suite 350 and Suite 2100-1177 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6E 2K3, Canada, for the sum of $11,200 per month.
Our Mexican subsidiary, Minera Mexicana el Rosario, S.A. de C.V. (“MMR”), rents office space at Camino del Amanecer 409, Los Remedios, Durango, DGO, Mexico, for the sum of $7,280 Mexican Pesos (approximately $660) per month.
Our Mexican subsidiary Minera de Villa Seca, S.A. de C.V., maintains office space at Hacienda de Bustos, Mineral de Cata, Guanajuato, GTO C.P. 36010. No rent is paid as the premises are owned by MMR.
Our Mexican subsidiary, Metalicos de Durango, S.A. de C.V., maintains office space at Boulevard La Sierra No. 1, Topia, Dgo. 34541. No rent is paid as the premises are owned by MMR.
We believe that our current office arrangements provide adequate space for our foreseeable future needs.
We rent land for the tailings dam located in Topia, DGO, Mexico.
At present, our activities are focused on the mining, exploration, development and acquisition of precious and base metal properties located in Mexico.
Primary Mining Properties
(1)Topia Mine
a. Location and Accessibility
The Topia Mine is located in the municipality of Topia in the west central part of Durango State, Mexico. Access is gained by travelling north for roughly 200 km on paved highway #23 from Durango through the city of Santiago Papasquiaro, and then west on paved and gravel roads to the town of Topia, a distance of approximately 150 km. Total driving time from Durango City is about 8 hours. Most of the main roads in Topia are paved with concrete or cobblestones, and the town contains numerous stores, restaurants and hotels. A small airstrip on the east side of the town is serviced daily from Culiacán, Sinaloa by small aircraft. Flight time from Culiacán is less than an hour.
The terrain is quite steep and rugged with elevations ranging from approximately 600 metres in the river valleys in the western portion of the property rising to nearly 2,000 metres in the northeastern portion of the property where high level plateaus exist. The area is generally dry except during the rainy season when between 20-50cm of rain may fall. Mining operations and most exploration activities (especially underground exploration and development) can be conducted on a year-round basis. Access to the numerous mine entrances is via gravel roads that are narrow in the steep Sierra.
Refer to Exhibit 8.3 - Map of Topia Property.
b. History
Although the discovery of silver in the area dates back to 1538, the existing mine was not built until 1952, when Peñoles consolidated the mining concessions and built road access into the town. Great Panther purchased the mine in 2005 and commenced mining in January 2006.
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c. Geology and Mineralization
The Topia Mine lies within the Sierra Madre Occidental geological province of northwestern Mexico. The Sierra Madre is a prolific belt of mineral wealth hosting many significant gold and silver deposits. The silver-gold-lead-zinc veins of the Topia district have formed along a northeast-trending series of faults and are of the epithermal type. Mineralized veins are limited to the lower series of andesitic lavas and interbedded pyroclastics known as the Topia andesites. These veins contain ore grade mineralization over a limited vertical extent of between 100 and 300 metres but this mineralized zone extends laterally along strike in individual veins for as much as four kilometres.
d. Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Estimates
There are no known reserves on the property and the proposed program is exploratory in nature.
During 2008, Wardrop Engineering (“Wardrop”) of Vancouver provided an update to the ongoing mineral resource development at Topia. The 2008 resource estimate has increased over that of 2006, even after considering the last two years of production. Contained silver is up 11%, gold 25%, and lead by 6% while zinc stayed the same. At the current production rate of approximately 36,000 tonnes per year, management expects the resources to support a mine life of at least seven more years. This "rolling resource" is typical for underground mines as it is often not cost-effective to define a large resource/reserve in advance of mining.
The new estimate provides an update for the Argentina vein only, while the estimate delivered by Wardrop in 2006 for the other veins on the property remains unchanged. The breakdown for the Argentina Vein and Other Veins on the property is given in the Table below. Wardrop capped the grades and used metal prices and recoveries as indicated in the table in order to categorize the resources.
2008 Resource Update:
VEIN | CATEGORY | Tonnes | Ag g/t | Au g/t | Pb % | Zn % |
ARGENTINA | MEASURED | 32,050 | 585 | 0.60 | 6.61 | 4.96 |
INDICATED | 65,450 | 594 | 0.58 | 6.03 | 4.49 | |
INFERRED | 75,700 | 534 | 0.85 | 3.67 | 2.35 | |
OTHER | M & I | 55,859 | 345 | 1.57 | 3.91 | 5.21 |
INFERRED | 22,373 | 243 | 1.39 | 3.31 | 4.97 | |
TOTAL | M & I | 153,373 | 501 | 0.95 | 5.38 | 4.85 |
INFERRED | 98,083 | 468 | 0.97 | 3.59 | 2.95 |
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Metal Prices (2008) | Recoveries | Capping Grades | ||
Au | US$888/oz | 76.4% | Au (g/t) | 6.0 |
Ag | US$17/oz | 76.6% | Ag (g/t) | 2,000.0 |
Pb | US$1.01/lb | 83.1% | Pb (%) | 20.0 |
Zn | US$0.99/lb | 68.3% | Zn (%) | 20.0 |
The mineral resources are reported at a US$60 RMV cut-off which is based on a US$40/t cost for mining and milling, US$15/t for general and administrative costs, and US$5/t concentrate handling cost.
The resources estimated in 2006 for the other veins on the property came largely from the verification of Peñoles' resources, and are still intact, as mining to date has come from new mine development on these veins. (Resources for the "other veins" were estimated by Wardrop using metal prices as reported in the 2006 report.) When combined with the 2008 Argentina resource, the new total contained metal for each of these categories is shown in the Table below.
Contained metal (all veins):
Category | Tonnes | Ag ozs | Au ozs | Pb lbs | Zn lbs |
M & I Resources | 153,375 | 2,472,700 | 4,661 | 18,191,165 | 16,402,718 |
Inferred Resources | 98,075 | 1,474,927 | 3,057 | 7,765,300 | 6,371,766 |
Due to the steep topography and the nature of the narrow veins at Topia, surface drilling is typically widely spaced and is used as a guide for underground development by locating and confirming structural continuity and grade, while development by drifting, sampling and some underground drilling along the vein defines the measured and indicated mineral resources. As such, much of the surface drilling is used to determine additional Exploration Potential for the veins. This has been estimated in-house for the Don Benito and Argentina veins to demonstrate the potential mineral resources in these areas prior to mine development. According to NI 43-101, Exploration Potential must be reported as ranges and these are presented in the following table. The Exploration Potential is conceptual in nature and based on wide spaced exploration drilling at Argentina, and exploration drilling and two development levels at Don Benito. There has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the Exploration Potential being delineated as a mineral resource.
Exploration Potential:
Vein | Tonnes | Ag | Au | Pb | Zn |
Argentina | 80,000-100,000 | 300-500g/t | 1-2g/t | 4-6% | 2-4% |
Don Benito | 60,000-80,000 | 300-600g/t | 1-4g/t | 4-8% | 3-6% |
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These tonnages include some of the drilling and development completed during the spring of 2008 (see Great Panther’s news releases dated February 19, June 2 and June 23, 2008) and could represent another 4-5 years of mine life with further definition. The Argentina vein remains open to expansion at depth and to the east for approximately 500 metres below old mine workings.
e. Exploration History
The Company has conducted extensive work on the Topia property as far back as 2004. The diamond drill program conducted between June 2004 and February 2005 comprised 7,436 metres in 30 surface holes with results evidencing high grade silver-lead-zinc mineralization. Five separate areas were tested with one or two main veins present in each area. The main goal of the program was to test the strike, dip and grade continuity of the veins beyond where they had been mined in the past in order to indicate the exploration potential of the property and to guide the short term underground development work with the goal of successfully re-opening the mine.
Based upon the success of the exploration program, the Company exercised its option to purchase the Topia Mine in July 2005. Once access was gained to the underground workings, underground mapping, sampling and diamond drilling became an integral part of the ongoing exploration program at Topia. In December 2005, we commenced limited production at the Topia Silver-Lead-Zinc Mine in Durango, Mexico.
In March 2006, we reached a significant milestone in becoming a primary silver producer with our first shipment of concentrates from operations. In the second half of 2006, we commissioned our second ball mill increasing the plant’s production from 120 to 170 tonnes per day.
During 2007 and 2008, ongoing exploration development of the mine continued to demonstrate high grades of silver-lead-zinc. In addition, new underground drilling and chip-sampling has demonstrated very good potential on the yet unmined parts of many of the known veins.
Surface drilling continued into early 2008. Great Panther has now drilled a total of 15,206 metres in 62 surface holes and 2,732 metres in 48 underground holes.
f. Total Costs Incurred to Date and All Planned Future Costs
As at December 31, 2008, total costs incurred on mineral properties, plant and equipment were $8,975,000. Total costs incurred on exploration were $8,201,000.
Planned costs for 2009 are approximately $0.8 million for capital investment and exploration.
g. Source of Power and Water that can be Utilized at the Property
Topia is connected to the national power grid. Artesian springs located above Topia provide water year-round by gravity to the town. Most of the lower mine portals discharge water and the Victoria adit has provided enough water to supply milling activities in the past.
(2) Guanajuato Mine
a. Location and Accessibility
The Guanajuato Mine Complex is located alongside the city of Guanajuato, 380 km northwest of Mexico City in central Mexico. Guanajuato is situated in the Central Plateau of Mexico in the mountains of Sierra de Guanajuato at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 2,200 metres. The principle claim group is centred at approximately 21o03’N latitude and 101o15’W longitude (NAD 27, UTM coordinates
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2327500N, 265500E). The Guanajuato Mine Complex consists of 1,107.28 hectares, made up of 28 non-contiguous concessions.
Excellent access is availed to Guanajuato with an international airport 30 minutes to the west near Silao/Leon. Toll freeways skirt the city linking it with Leon, Guadalajara, and Mexico City. All of the facilities of the Guanajuato Mine are accessed from city streets.
The Guanajuatito ramp provides easy access to the mineralization throughout the Guanajuatito-Encarnación area where only a minor amount of mining has taken place in the past.
Refer to Exhibit 8.4 – Map of Guanajuato Property.
b. History
The Guanajuato Mining District was founded in 1548, with the first discovery of silver in the area. Estimates of historical production ranging from 700 million to 1.5 billion ounces of silver, and 4 to 7 million ounces of gold.
Mining at Guanajuato has been conducted since the year 1600, initially by the Spaniards and subsequently by Mexican, British and American companies. Since 1939, the property now owned by Great Panther was owned and operated by a Mexican mining cooperative. Production by the latter, from whom the Company bought the property, had dwindled to about 200 tonnes per day by 2005, despite the plant capacity of 1,200 tonnes per day. Grades had dropped and the cooperative was losing money. Operations stopped completely in August of that year and Great Panther took possession of the mine in December 2005.
c. Geology and Mineralization
Three major fault systems with associated mineralization occur in the Guanajuato Mining District; La Luz, Sierra, and the Veta Madre systems, the largest being the 25 km long Veta Madre. The principal mineralizing event is thought to be late Oligocene in age +27 Ma, which has created three identifiable stages of mineralization according to Clark (2005); “1) pre-ore, 2) ore, 3) post-ore and the ore can be divided into three zones; upper ore, lower ore, and deep ore.” The upper ore is defined as being >2,100m a.s.l., lower ore is found between 2,100m and 1,700m a.s.l. and deep ore as being <1,700m a.s.l.
All historic descriptions of the mineralization contain the term “ore”. In most cases, the terminology applies to previously mined mineralization. Historic authors have generally agreed that there are three separate zones of mineralization; upper ore, lower ore and deep ore. Normally this categorization refers to areas now mined out but in other cases, it refers to horizons of un-mined material that may contain mineralization that would not be considered as “ore” as defined by NI 43- 101Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects adopted by the securities regulators in Canada. The authors have chosen to use the same language to be consistent with the historic documentation and are not implying that the mineralization will ever become ore that can be mined at a profit.
The Veta Madre systems strike northwesterly and dip 450 to 650SW. The bulk of the mining production has come from a five-kilometre section of the Veta Madre stretching between the Valenciana shaft of our Company’s ground in the northwest to the Sirena shaft on Peñoles ground in the southeast. In this five kilometre area, the vein stockwork averages approximately 20 metres in width but can be as wide as 90 metres. Most of the historic production has come from the economically important lower ore level (2,100 metres to 1,700 metres a.s.l.) and is typically associated with faults and both footwall and hanging wall stockwork vein systems.
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The argentiferous mineralization is hosted in quartz veins with gangue mineralogy of quartz, calcite, pyrite, adularia, and sericite. The principal silver bearing mineralization is acanthite (argentite), aguilarite and naumannite while gold occurs as free gold and as electrum. The gold to silver ratios vary from approximately 1:70 to 1:200. Base metal mineralization is not common; when it occurs it is observed as chalcopyrite, sphalerite and galena. The exception is the “deep ore” in the Rayas mine which is associated with chalcopyrite and galena.
The economic mineralization is hosted in quartz-carbonate-adularia veins and stockwork systems with identifiable “ore-shoots” that carry the bulk of the economic mineralization. The ore shoots are discontinuous, 10-40 metre wide and typically equal in vertical dimensions to strike length. The discontinuous nature of the ore-shoots has made ongoing underground and surface exploration challenging and not necessarily well understood. On average, approximately 20% of the volume of the individual veins becomes ore.
d.Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Estimates
There are currently no reserve or resource estimates conforming to NI 43-101Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects adopted by the securities regulators in Canada. A noncompliant, resource estimate was made in 2000 by Sociedad Cooperativa Minero-Metalurgica Santa Fe de Guanajuato with most of the resource located in the lower levels of the mine. Since purchasing the mine, Great Panther has been compiling information from its own drilling and sampling and has estimated mineral inventories in areas of the mine where it is working or plans to work. While these mineral inventories are used for mine planning, it is often not cost-effective to define these in the detail required to make them NI43-101 compliant. The Company is, however, working on a new compliant resource estimate for the Cata Mine area, expected in March-April of 2009.
e.Exploration History
Since acquiring the Guanajuato Mine in 2005, Great Panther has completed 88 surface drill holes totaling 15,222.0 metres and 37 underground holes totalling 7,791.00 metres.
The 2005 drilling was completed under and northwest of the Guanajuatito ramp along the trend of the Veta Madre, approximately one kilometre northwest of the famous Valenciana Mine (owned by Great Panther). It was designed to duplicate and surround a lone 1989 drill hole (#317) that intersected a 5.35 metre wide zone grading 3.34 g/t Au and 81.5 g/t Ag, including 10.65 g/t gold and 165 g/t silver over 1.55 metres. The drilling program intersected bonanza grade silver and above average gold within the Veta Madre vein structure.
An extensive underground sampling program continued through 2006 at Guanajuato. Preliminary sampling in the first quarter of 2006 returned spectacular bonanza grades from the Valenciana Mine. Silver grades ranged from 1,100 g/t (32 oz/t) to 30,468 g/t (889 oz/t) and gold grades ranged from 19 g/t (0.6 oz/t) to 177 g/t (5.2 oz/t) in 27 selective grab samples taken by the mine staff. These results yield an arithmetic average of 11,036 g/t (322 oz/t) Ag and 62 g/t Au (1.8 oz/t). Using a silver-to-gold ratio of 60:1, this equates to a silver equivalent grade of 430 oz/t or a gold equivalent grade of 7.2 oz/t. The samples also contained, on average, 0.34% Cu, 0.24% Pb and 0.87% Zn.
The samples were taken from the walls of 6 different stopes above and below the 285 metre level over a total strike length of about 500 metres in a part of the mine that has historically been mined by hand, dating back to the early 19th century. As such, there has been very little, if any, mechanized mining here, and stopes are typically small and erratic in shape. The sampling was carried out as a first-pass assessment of the tenor and distribution of mineralization that has been left behind by these historic mining campaigns. While grades from the various stopes were comparable, it is presently unknown just how representative these grades may be from a mining standpoint.
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In addition, initial surface rock sampling on the Promontorio claim, southeast of the Rayas Shaft, has identified a gold-rich zone of mineralization along more than 100 metres of the Veta Madre structure.
Compilation of the underground data is ongoing, as will be the evaluation of the extent of former mining, and re-sampling of stopes and levels. There is more than 300 metres of strike length to the southeast of Promontorio that has apparently seen only limited exploration and underground development, such that the potential for previously unrecognized mineralization in this area is excellent. Overall, the property encompasses more than four kilometres of strike length on the Veta Madre structure, much of which has seen little to no exploration.
In June 2006, we commenced the first phase of our underground diamond drilling program. The purpose of the drilling was to better define zones of silver-gold mineralization for production purposes and for the preparation of a NI43-101 compliant resource. This drilling focused mainly on San Vicente North.
In October 2006, we commenced a second phase of our diamond drilling program and completed extensive underground sampling at the limits of the silver-gold mineralization in the Guanajuatito Mine.
In early 2006, we commenced a Phase II surface diamond drilling program designed to test three separate areas along 4 kilometres of strike length along of the Veta Madre. The drill program was to follow-up on the successful drilling at Guanajuatito, in the northwest part of the property, as well as to test the Animas, and Garrapata areas which are farther along strike to the southeast. The program was highly successful in identifying and delineating three new zones of silver-gold mineralization in the northwest, central and southeast parts of the mine property. These discoveries accentuate the previous lack of exploration on the property and the potential for new zones to be found throughout the mine. In addition, the easy access to these zones from existing underground workings means that they can be developed and mined quickly and cost-effectively.
The Company continued surface diamond drilling in 2007 and intersected four new silver-gold zones and provided further definition on the three previously known zones of silver-gold mineralization in the Promontorio area. All zones are sub-parallel and occur within 70 metres of the main Veta Madre. Having several zones within close proximity like this will significantly lower their development costs and plans are already in preparation for the exploitation of this area. The new mineralization lies between 70 and 150 metres below surface and is accessible by ramp.
In September 2007, a deep underground drilling program commenced in the Cata area of the Guanajuato Mine. The program was designed to twin, then fill in between, diamond drill holes completed in the 1980’s and 1990’s by the previous owners that indicated the continuation of silver-gold mineralization for approximately 200 metres below the existing mine workings.
The deep drilling at the Guanajuato Mine is testing the area between the 400 and 600 metre levels (dip length of 300 metres) along a strike length of 1,000 metres between and below the Cata and Rayas shafts. This drilling will be conducted under the historically high grade Cata and Rayas “Clavos”, which contained strong gold-silver mineralization down to the 417 metre and 450 metre levels, respectively. Drilling on the Cata Clavo was completed in 2008, and successfully confirmed the depth extension of high grade gold and silver mineralization. Mining development on the 430 and 460 metre levels of the Cata Clavo is continuing and the ramp will be extended to lower levels of the Cata Mine area. The program was suspended temporarily in order to conserve cash and will resume in the Rayas area in 2009.
f. Total Costs Incurred to Date and All Planned Future Costs
As at December 31, 2008 total costs incurred on mineral properties, plant and equipment at the Guanajuato mines were $15,191,000. Total exploration costs were $6,291,000.
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Planned costs for 2009 are approximately $2.1 million for capital investment and exploration.
g. Source of Power and Water that can be Utilized at the Property
The electricity supply to the operations in our Guanajuato unit is provided through the national power grid administered by CFE. The water supply is carried out through groundwater of our mines and rainwater filtrations.
Primary Exploration Properties
(1) Mapimi Project
a. Location and Accessibility
The Property is situated in the northern plateau region of Durango State. It is located approximately 66 kilometres west of the town of Bermejillo and 100 kilometres north-west from the city of Torreon and San Pedro de las Colonias, in Coahuila State. The property is easily accessible and the infrastructure is considered excellent, since the property is bisected by paved highway approximately 100 kilometres from Peñoles’ smelter at Torreon.
Airports are situated in the city of Torreon as well as the city of Durango. Both airports have scheduled daily flights to and from Mexico City, Mazatlan, Monterrey and Houston, Texas.
The municipality of Mapimi is on an electrical power grid and has telephone services provided by TelMex. Water and drainage systems are also present.
Refer to Exhibit 8.5 – Map of Mapimi Property.
b. History
In 1995, Minera Apolo, S.A. de C.V. (“Apolo”) acquired the property and optioned the property to Coeur d’Alene Mines Inc. in late 1996. Between 1997 and 1998, Coeur D’Alene carried out regional and geological mapping in some areas of the property. They completed a total of 397 metres of trenching, a gravity survey, 81 reverse circulation drill holes, 22 diamond drill holes and 422 surface channel samples. Coeur d’Alene returned the property to the vendor in 1998 and Great Panther optioned it in September 2006.
c. Geology and Mineralization
The structural fabric of the Mapimi Project appears to be complex. Rhyolite sills intrude sandstones, calcareous siltstones, and limestones of the Cretaceous Caracol Formation, a common host to many of the world class silver-lead-zinc deposits throughout the Mexican Silver Belt. Pre-mineral faulting and fracturing is intense within and adjacent to the mineralized zones, providing excellent porosity for mineralizing fluids. Post-mineral faulting is also common and offsets mineralized zones in places.
Mineralization at Mapimi includes three distinct types. Two adjacent & related zones called La Gloria and Las Palmitas contain lead, zinc, and silver minerals with lesser amounts of gold and copper minerals. This style is associated with hydrothermal breccias and stockworks related to a cluster of rhyolite domes, and shows a strong similarity to the historic Real de Angeles District in Zacatecas State, Mexico. An upper, oxidized portion (~40-60 metres) of the mineralization consists of jarosite and hematite; with sulphides consisting of pyrite, silver sulfosalts, sphalerite and galena at depth. The breccias have a general orientation of N40E, and a steep northwest dip. The largest breccia to date has known dimensions of 250 by 45 metres but is open in all directions. More than 20 breccia bodies have been identified in 5 main sectors.
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A second type of silver-lead-zinc mineralization occurs approximately three kilometres north of La Gloria and appears to be of the carbonate replacement type. Called the North Zone, mineralization here is narrow but high grade and appears to be related to the rhyolite-sediment contacts. It is hosted in the Caracol Formation but there may be potential for better widths and grades in the underlying Aurora Limestone.
The third style of mineralization at Mapimi was discovered in 2008 and consists of molybdenite in quartz veins within a zone of skarn alteration. Named the Bulls-Eye Zone because it is highlighted by a strong magnetic anomaly, the mineralization starts at a depth of about 40 metres and extends over an area of about 250 metres in diameter and is approximately 200 metres thick. The Bulls-Eye Zone lies between La Gloria and the North Zone.
d. Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Estimates
There are no known reserves on the property and the proposed program is exploratory in nature. The Company does have a resource estimate as described below.
During 2006, the Company commissioned Wardrop Engineering (“Wardrop”) of Vancouver, B.C. to prepare a NI 43-101 compliant resource estimate for the property. The independently produced report estimated that the Palmitas and Gloria Zones together contain an Inferred Mineral Resource of 4,969,800 tonnes at a grade of 59 g/t Ag, 0.13 g/t Au, 0.81% Pb and 1.31% Zn. Wardrop calculated that these grades equate to a silver equivalent grade of 139 g/t using commodity prices (based upon 3 year averages) of US$7.70/oz for silver, US$471/oz for gold, US$0.41/lb for lead and US$0.69/lb for zinc and recoveries of 76%, 70%, 80% and 80%, respectively. This resource equates to a total of 22.3 million ounces of silver equivalent.
The resource estimate was based upon a comprehensive exploration program completed on the property by Coeur d'Alene Mines during 1997 and 1998, wherein they drilled 81 reverse circulation holes (7,515 metres and 3,614 samples) and 22 diamond drill holes (2,983 metres and 900 samples). The geological database also includes 422 surface channel samples. Coeur d'Alene dropped the property in 1998. The resource includes 2,643,600 tonnes of oxide material at a grade of 51 g/t Ag, 0.11 g/t Au, 0.73% Pb and 0.98% Zn for a silver equivalent grade of 113 g/t and 2,326,200 tonnes of sulphide mineralization at a grade of 68 g/t Ag, 0.16 g/t Au, 0.90% Pb and 1.69% Zn for a silver equivalent grade of 169 g/t. As the grade of sulphide mineralization is 50% higher than the 40-60 metre-thick oxide zone, the Company expects the overall grade of the resource to increase over time as the deposit is extended to depth.
In March 2008, Wardrop delivered an updated NI 43-101 compliant mineral resource estimate for the La Gloria / Las Palmitas Zones. The new estimate effectively upgraded the previous resource of 22.3 million silver equivalent ounces (Ag eq oz) from the Inferred to the Indicated category and added an additional 6.3 million Ag eq oz in the Inferred category for a global resource of 28.6 million recoverable Ag eq oz.
The new estimate includes the twenty-nine core holes, representing 6,298 metres, completed during Great Panther’s Phase I drilling program in the first half of 2007 (see below in Exploration). This program consisted mostly of fill-in holes focused on the La Gloria Zone and adjacent Las Palmitas Zone in an effort to confirm, expand, and better delineate the previous Inferred Mineral Resource.
The 2007 Phase I drilling at Mapimi has increased the confidence level of the resource, resulting in a new Indicated Mineral Resource estimated at 6,585,900 tonnes grading 28g/t silver, 0.09g/t gold, 0.41% lead and 1.14% Zn and an Inferred Mineral Resource at 2,027,900 tonnes grading 34g/t silver, 0.13g/t gold, 0.54% lead and 0.81% zinc.
In the new resource estimate, Wardrop has used different parameters than in 2006, such that the new estimate is considered to be more robust. In keeping with the previously reported resource estimate,
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Wardrop has applied a cut-off grade of 50g/t silver equivalent. Metal prices and recoveries used were US$9.55/oz and 76%, respectively, for silver, US$530/oz and 70% for gold, US$0.63/lb and 80% for lead and US$1.00/lb and 80% for zinc. Statistically higher grade samples were also removed by capping the assay data at 150g/t for silver, 3.0g/t for gold, and 4.5% for each of lead and zinc. Wardrop used Ordinary Kriging and Inverse Distance Squared to estimate the resource, with blocks of 5m X 5m X 5m being used for the three-dimensional model. Metallurgical recoveries used are the same as for the 2006 resource estimate, which were based upon tests conducted by Silver Standard Resources Inc. in 1999 as part of a property review.
The effect of the higher commodity prices used in the current resource estimate compared to those used in 2006 is that lower grade material now becomes potentially economic, which thereby lowers the average grade of the resource while increasing the tonnage. Thus, the new resource represents an increase in tonnage of approximately 73% while the average grade of the Indicated and Inferred Resources is now 105g/t Ag Eq and 97g/t Ag Eq, respectively, compared to 139g/t Ag Eq in the 2006 resource. As such, the estimated recoverable ounces of silver equivalent have increased by approximately 28%.
The work to date on La Gloria and Las Palmitas has resulted in a well-defined resource that can now be modeled for extraction by open pit mining methods. An in-house scoping study has been initiated that will examine basic issues such as permitting, metallurgy, transportation, mining, milling and construction costs, etc. While this will lay the groundwork for later feasibility studies, it is still the Company’s objective to increase the size of the overall project resource by drilling targets outside of La Gloria/Las Palmitas. The recently discovered North Zone and the Bulls-Eye molybdenum mineralization may add to the viability of the project. We advise U.S. investors that while these terms “Resource Estimate” and “Inferred Mineral Resource” are recognized and required under Canadian regulations, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission does not recognize them. U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that any part of all of the mineral deposits in this category will ever be converted into reserves.
e. Exploration History
A first phase exploration program was implemented at Mapimi in late 2006 and consisted of an airborne geophysical survey and ground induced polarization geophysical survey follow-up; detailed geological mapping and re-sampling of outcrops, adits and trenches; followed by a core drilling program focused on confirming previous Coeur d’Alene drilling results in the Las Palmitas and La Gloria zones.
During February 2007, Great Panther contracted Aeroquest Limited to fly a 550 line kilometre airborne electromagnetic (“EM”) and magnetic geophysical survey over the Mapimi project. Numerous EM and magnetic targets were detected and the interpretation of this survey, in conjunction with surface mapping, provided a geological framework for 103 kilometres of detailed induced polarization (“I.P.”) geophysics. While some of the geophysical anomalies outlined by the airborne survey are directly related to regional geological features, others appear to be related to known mineralization or are spatially associated with zones of strong alteration.
The Phase II diamond drilling program, which commenced in October 2007, tested two large coincident geological, geochemical, and geophysical anomalies, namely the Bulls-Eye and North Zones. The program identified semi-massive silver-lead-zinc mineralization in the North Zone that is spatially related to the rhyolite-sediment contacts and a large zone of molybdenum mineralization in the Bulls-Eye Zone.
To the end of 2008, a total of 12,448 metres in 60 holes has been drilled by the Company at Mapimi. As of the date of this document, exploration at Mapimi has been suspended in order to conserve cash.
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f. Total Costs Incurred to Date and All Planned Future Costs
As at December 31, 2008, total exploration costs incurred were $5,206,000. The Company has not planned any exploration work in 2009.
g. Source of Power and Water that can be Utilized at the Property
The municipality of Mapimi is on an electrical power grid and has telephone services provided by TelMex. Water and drainage systems are also present.
(2) San Antonio Project
a. Location and Accessibility
The San Antonio Project is located 50 kilometres NNW of the Guadalupe y Calvo Mining District in the State of Chihuahua, Mexico and approximately 162 kilometres S-SW of the city of Hidalgo de Parral, Chihuahua, and 265 kilometres SW of the city of Chihuahua. It consists of three contiguous mining concessions covering in the aggregate 11,946 hectares. These concessions were staked and are owned 100% by MMR.
Concession | Size (hectares) | Expiry Date |
Santo Niño | 80 | 21/04/2036 |
San Antonio | 9,447 | 15/04/2051 |
Iran | 2,184 | 09/05/2055 |
La Chiripa | 235 | 03/05/2056 |
Road access to the San Antonio project is via paved highway from Hidalgo de Parral to the town of Guadalupe y Calvo, a distance of 255 kilometres, and then to Baborigame via a maintained unsurfaced road, a distance of 90 kilometres, and then via 33 kilometres of logging and ranch roads to a small ranch in the Arroyo San Antonio near the center of the project area. Straight line distance from Baborigame to the project area is 9 kilometres.
b. History
The San Antonio prospect lies within the Guadalupe y Calvo mining district. Earliest recorded mining activity in the region is the discovery in 1835 of the veins in the San Juan Nepocemo area west of Baborigame. Various Au-Ag vein deposits were subsequently discovered and commercial mining continued without interruption until 1940. Since then, only small scale artisanal mining has been conducted in the region. The San Antonio project lies outside of the areas of significant mine development, and little is known of the exploration history of the project. The numerous workings in the Arroyo San Antonio attest to minor production from the project area.
Neither significant nor modern exploration programs are known to have been conducted at the property. Anaconda, Barrick Gold and Hemlo Gold made reconnaissance visits to the property in the 1990's. In the 1980's the Consejo de Recursos Minerales conducted site specific visits to the Sary, Piedra Verde, and Santo Niño claims. The property was visited by the Robert Archer, the President of the Company, in May of 2003. Mr. Archer collected ten reconnaissance rock chip samples from mine workings and altered outcrops in the Arroyo San Antonio.
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The property had not been subjected to exploration drilling prior to our acquisition of the claims.
c. Geology and Mineralization
Numerous epithermal veins and mineralized structural zones are exposed in the Arroyo San Antonio. It is not clear if these structures are faults that juxtaposed rock types, or alternatively the structures formed along pre-existing lithologic contacts. Mineralized structures vary from 1 to 200 cm wide. All of these mineralized structures lie within a much broader zone of pervasive chloritization that is continuously exposed along the Arroyo San Antonio.
Geologic and mineral occurrence maps indicate that within the project area at least 12 mineralized structures or veins have been explored or exploited, and numerous others of unknown extent and importance are present. Great Panther evaluated many of these in 2004 and 2005 and established that many were of limited potential to support an economic mining operation. Nonetheless, their evaluation revealed important information regarding the geological setting of the project area and allowed the Company to focus in on areas with the greatest potential.
d. Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Estimates
As of the date of this report, there are no known reserves on the property and the proposed program is exploratory in nature.
e. Exploration History
The 2004-2005 exploration program at San Antonio comprised geological mapping and sampling, prospecting, soil sampling and diamond drilling. The objective of the program was to identify zones of continuous and potentially economic gold and copper grades within the mineralized structures (veins) or stockwork zones. Historical mining on these veins was limited and their vertical and lateral extent is unknown as they have never been drilled. Ongoing exploration work sampled the historic workings in detail, along with numerous other structures that have been found in the area. In addition, the large zone of stockwork and disseminated mineralization that lies between the veins was systematically sampled in order to determine the grade and distribution of gold and copper values as field crews continued to work their way from north to south across the core claims. A diamond drill program which commenced in February 2005 comprised 1,936 metres in 16 holes, and focused on the high grade gold-copper vein system in the central part of the property.
No field work was done on the property in 2006.
In 2007, Altair Ventures, under the terms of the aforementioned option agreement, conducted an exploration program with Great Panther as operator. The focus of the exploration effort was to fully evaluate the numerous gossans and alteration zones on the project using a combination of geological mapping, rock sampling, and PIMA surveys. All three techniques, plus satellite image analysis, aided the Company in defining priority targets for more detailed sampling and appraisal as drill targets. Phase Two diamond drilling commenced on the San Antonio project in November 2007. The program comprised 1,585 metres in 8 holes and tested a district scale epithermal system that has been identified on the property.
Three drill holes within the Gossan Breccia zone, noted as a potential high sulphidation gold system from geochemistry and PIMA alteration studies, returned no significant assay results and detected no deeper epithermal feeder structures. As such, it may be a remnant, thin (<50 metres thick) rhyolitic volcanic unit with incipient alteration.
The five other drill holes demonstrated that there is excellent continuity of the high level structures and mineralization along strike and to depth, especially at San Cayetano, La Gringa, and La Gringa Norte. On
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surface these three vein / structures are continuous for approximately 400 metres each and they have been followed to depths of 100 - 140 metres. Due to the extreme topography in this part of the project, however, these intercepts appear to be still too high within the mineralizing system to determine if the lead-zinc-silver-gold veins progress into a copper-gold zone at depth. Deeper drilling to test this concept may be considered.
Field work on the project is being conducted by Resource Geosciences de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. of Hermosillo, Sonora under contract to our Mexican subsidiary, Minera Mexicana el Rosario, S.A. de C.V.
ITEM 4A Unresolved Staff Comments
None
ITEM 5 Operating and Financial Review and Prospects
The information in this section is presented in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles, and has been reconciled to United States generally accepted accounting principles. The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 and should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this registration statement in accordance with Item 8 – "Financial Information".
Critical Accounting Estimates
The accounting estimates believed to require the most difficult, subjective or complex judgements, and which are the most critical to our reporting of results of operations and financial position, are as follows:
Amortization
The Company’s mineral properties and related plant and equipment are amortized based upon estimates of useful lives not to exceed the life of the mine. Effective October 1, 2008, the life of the Topia mine was extended from 2 years to 7 years. Effective December 31, 2008, the life of the Guanajato mine was extended from 2 years to 3 years. These estimates may change in circumstances where the assets’ useful life changes based upon new information.
Impairment of long-lived assets
The Company reviews and evaluates its long-lived assets, including mineral properties, plant and equipment, for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to its estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. Estimated cash flows include assumptions about long-term silver, gold, lead and zinc prices, future production levels, and future operating, capital and reclamation costs. If carrying value exceeds estimated discounted future cash flows, an impairment loss is recognized based on the excess of carrying value over the estimated fair value of the asset.
Management's estimates are subject to risks and uncertainties of changes affecting the recoverability of the Company's investment in its mineral property, plant, equipment and mine development. Management's estimates of these factors are based on current conditions. Nonetheless, it is reasonably possible that in the near term, changes that could adversely affect management's estimate of net cash flows expected to be generated from its properties could occur which may necessitate a write-down for asset impairment.
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Site Restoration Costs
Upon the completion of any mining activities, the Company will customarily be required to undertake environmental reclamation activities in accordance with local and/or industry standards. It is reasonably possible that the ultimate cost of remediation and reclamation could change in the future due to uncertainties associated with defining the nature and extent of environmental contamination, the application of laws and regulations by regulatory authorities and changes in remediation technology. The Company continually reviews its accrued liabilities, if any, as evidence becomes available indicating that its remediation and reclamation liabilities may have changed. Any such increases in costs could materially impact the future amounts charged to operations for reclamation and remediation obligations.
Stock-based Compensation Expense
From time to time, the Company may grant share purchase options to directors, officers, employees and service providers. The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate a value for these options. This model, and other models which are used to value options, require inputs such as expected volatility, expected life to exercise and interest rates. Changes to any of these inputs could cause a significant change in the stock-based compensation expense charged in a period.
Income Taxes
The Company uses the liability method which takes into account the differences between financial statement treatment and tax treatment of certain transactions, assets and liabilities. Future tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Valuation allowances are established to reduce future tax assets when there is potential that some or all of the assets will not be realized. Estimates of future taxable income and the continuation of ongoing prudent tax planning arrangements have been considered in assessing the utilization of available tax losses. Changes in circumstances and assumptions and clarifications of uncertain tax regimes may require changes to the valuation allowances associated with the Company’s future tax liabilities.
A. Operating Results
Restatement
The comparative figures in the consolidated financial statements have been restated to reduce revenue to reflect the proceeds from the sale of concentrates, net of treatment and refining fees charged by counter parties, as the Company assumes no risk or obligation for treatment and refining services under its sales arrangements. The Company previously recorded treatment and refining fees as a cost of sales.
The effect of the restatement is a decrease in cost of sales (excluding amortization and depletion) and revenue for the year ended December 31, 2007 by $1,963,976 (2006 - $736,408). This restatement has no impact on the reported loss and loss per share for each of the years in the three years ended December 31, 2007.
2007 | 2006 | |||
As originally reported | As restated | As originally reported | As restated | |
Mineral sales | $17,487,070 | $15,523,094 | $7,069,442 | $6,333,034 |
Cost of sales (excluding amortization and depletion) | $16,116,633 | $14,152,657 | $7,119,047 | $6,382,639 |
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Operating Results
For the year ended December 31, 2008, the Company’s sales were $22,445,438 million compared to $15,523,094 million in 2007 and $6,333,034 million in 2006, an increase of 45% and 145%, respectively. The Company generates its revenue from the sale of metal concentrates derived from the mining and subsequent processing of mineralization from its Topia and Guanajuato operations. Revenue has grown over the last three years as production levels have steadily increased at both operations. Combined output at Topia and Guanajuato was 1,809,720 Ag eq oz in 2008, compared with 1,336,629 Ag eq oz in 2007 and 638,860 Ag eq oz in 2006. Increases in revenue from the increase in output and improved silver and gold prices were partially offset by increases in smelting and refining costs in 2008. For the year ended December 31, 2008, silver and gold prices increased by 12% and 25%, respectively, while the price of zinc and lead decreased by 19% and 42%, respectively, as compared to December 31, 2007.
Overall cost of sales for the 2008 fiscal year was $18,144,223 compared with $14,152,657 in 2007 and $6,382,639 in 2006. Cost of sales increased due to the focus on higher grade, higher cost areas, as well as higher power and fuel costs to support the increased production. Earnings from mining operations grew to $4,301,215 in 2008 from $1,370,437 in 2007 and from a loss of $49,605 in 2006. Overall, the cash cost per silver ounce decreased slightly from 2007 levels. Improvement in Guanajuato’s cost per ounce was offset by an increase in Topia’s cost per ounce. Unit costs improved significantly during the fourth quarter at the Guanajuato operations as production records were achieved and operational efficiencies were implemented at the mine sites. The favourable exchange rate effectively lowered site costs still further.
Amortization and depletion of mineral properties, plant and equipment increased by $681,361 in 2008 to $4,285,029 compared with $3,603,668 in 2007 and by $2,863,260 compared with $1,421,769 in 2006. The increase is largely due to capital purchases made in 2007 and 2008.
Accretion on asset retirement obligations was $281,677 for the year ended December 31, 2008 compared to $22,704 in 2007. This increase is due to a full year of accretion on the change in the asset retirement obligations that was recognized at the end of 2007.
Mineral property exploration costs in 2008 were $6,327,926 compared to $6,803,104 in 2007 and $3,968,083 in 2006. The decrease in 2008 over 2007 is mainly due to the cost cutting program implemented in the fourth quarter. Mine development not related to immediate production was deferred and exploration was stopped on all projects in response to declining metal prices. The Company had anticipated spending $8.6 million on mineral property expenditures in 2008 but spent $2.3 million less than planned due to work stoppage. The Company’s ability to raise the necessary equity capital required to fund the expenditures was impacted by the deteriorating world economic conditions. The Company plans to spend $1 million in mineral property expenditures in 2009 from cash flow generated by operations.
General and administrative expenses (“G&A”) were $5,965,595 for 2008 compared to $4,672,362 and $4,408,631 in 2007 and 2006, respectively. Of the $1.3 million increase in 2008, approximately $0.5 million is due to the growth of the Company since the latter part of 2007, which included adding three new senior management positions and significantly increasing the depth of the accounting and financial reporting department in Vancouver and Mexico. During the year, the Company incurred $0.3 million for financial statement and internal control audit fees related to 2007 as well as higher fees for the 2008 audit. As a result of the cost reduction program implemented in the fourth quarter, the Company incurred $0.1 million in termination costs. The remaining amount of the $1.3 million increase is attributable to $0.2 million incurred in the second quarter for the event celebrating the reopening of the Guanajuato mines, tax planning initiatives, and Value-Added Tax (“VAT”) recovery fees. In addition, during the first
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quarter of 2008, the Company took a provision of $0.2 million of potentially uncollectible VAT receivable.
The Company had anticipated spending $5.2 million on G&A during 2008. Unplanned expenditures of $0.8 million included additional audit fees, severance costs, VAT write-offs and recovery fees as well as the Guanajuato celebration. The Company plans to spend $5.3 million in general and administrative expenses in 2009.
The Company also incurred non-cash stock-based compensation expense of $1,608,271 in 2008 compared with $1,129,500 and $4,672,774 in 2007 and 2006, respectively. Of the $0.5 million increase in 2008, $0.4 million is due to re-pricing of incentive stock options from $2.65 and $2.00 to $1.42 during the second quarter. The balance of the increase is due to a net increase in options granted in 2008. The Company grew exponentially in 2006 which resulted in the larger than usual expense in that year.
Interest expense was $1,155,197 in 2008, compared to $1,035,577 in 2007 and $830,236 in 2006. Interest increased over the three years due to the $4.05 million convertible notes issued in the third quarter of 2007 for which the impact was reflected in the last two quarters of 2007 and fully reflected in 2008.
The Company realized a foreign exchange gain of $113,042 in 2008, compared to a loss of $1,440,802 in 2007 and a gain of $10,358 in 2006. The gain in 2008 is a result of the appreciation of the Canadian dollar against the US dollar and Mexican peso for most of the year.
For the year ended December 31, 2008, income taxes recoverable were $651,489 compared to an expense of $2,571,473 in 2007 and $110,016 in 2006. A new tax in Mexico, referred to as a “Flat Tax”, was enacted in 2007 and came into effect on January 1, 2008. Flat tax works as an alternative minimum tax. Taxpayers are required to pay the higher of the amount due under either income tax or flat tax. Under flat tax, the tax basis of fixed assets is significantly reduced and tax losses originating from prior years are not deductible. This resulted in the $2.5 million increase to the future income tax liability in 2007. Extending the remaining mine life of Topia and Guanajuato in 2008 increased the tax basis of fixed assets that were excluded in the 2007 calculation resulting in a future income tax recovery.
Overall, the loss for the twelve months ended December 31, 2008 was $14,285,852 compared to $19,700,861 and $15,084,437 for the twelve month periods ending December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively, for the above-noted reasons.
B. Liquidity and Capital Resources
The audited consolidated financial statements of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2008 were prepared in accordance with GAAP on a going concern basis, which assumes the realization of assets and liquidation of liabilities in the normal course of business. During the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, the Company recorded losses of $14,285,852 and $19,700,861, respectively, and used cash in operations of $3,254,623 and $12,483,969, respectively. As at December 31, 2008, the Company had an accumulated deficit of $58,913,891 and a working capital balance of $1,320,087. These conditions raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.
In response to worsening economic and market conditions in the last quarter of 2008, management has undertaken a plan to significantly reduce costs through a series of actions including, but not limited to, reducing exploration activities, reducing capital expenditures, obtaining more favourable terms with a new smelter and reducing its staff levels.
In response to worsening economic and market conditions in the last quarter of 2008, management has undertaken a plan to significantly reduce costs through a series of actions including, but not limited to, reducing exploration activities, reducing capital expenditures, obtaining more favourable terms with a
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new smelter, reducing its staff levels, and considering other financing alternatives for its operations. Subsequent to year end, the Company raised additional equity.
For 2009, Great Panther plans to produce 2.07 million Ag eq oz and invest $3.1 million in capital and exploration expenditures. Considering the decline in metal prices in the latter part of 2008 combined with the current volatile and uncertain business environment, there is no assurance that working capital together with net revenues from increasing production, will be adequate to fund the Company’s activities and to cover corporate overhead for the next twelve months. If metal prices remain at or above current levels, management anticipates that cash flow generated from mining activities along with working capital, including the proceeds received from the January 2009 private placement (see “Financing Activities”), will be sufficient to fund the Company’s operations without raising any additional capital during 2009. Should the Company chose to undertake significant capital expenditures for equipment, plant upgrades or an enhanced exploration program during 2009, additional financing will be required.
Great Panther does not have access to any lines of credit nor does the Company have any off-balance sheet financing arrangements. At this time, Great Panther does not use hedges or other financial derivatives.
Operating Activities
Cash flow used in operating activities, after working capital adjustments, was $3,254,623 in 2008 compared to $12,483,969 in 2007 and $11,433,341 in 2006. The decrease in 2008 over 2007 of $9,229,346 was primarily due to positive cash flow generated by the mines during the year as well as a significant favourable change in non-cash operating working capital.
Investing Activities
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2008, the Company had a net cash outflow from investing activities, primarily for the purchase of mineral properties and capital assets, of $1,837,187 compared with $3,362,263 in 2007 and $5,736,570 in 2006. The Company acquired, through capital leases, two underground loaders for the Guanajuato mine with a cost of $785,047.
The Company plans to invest $2.1 million in capital expenditures in 2009.
Financing Activities
During the second quarter of 2008, the Company entered into a capital lease agreement to purchase two underground loaders. The principal amount of the lease obligation at December 31, 2008 is US$733,540 and is repayable quarterly over two years at an interest rate of 9.3% per annum. Total minimum lease payments amount to US$807,154
Subsequent to December 31, 2009, the Company closed a private placement offering of 5,125,000 units of the Company ("Units") at a price of $0.20 per Unit to raise gross proceeds of $1,025,000. Each Unit comprises one common share and one-half of one non-transferable share purchase warrant. The securities issued in the private placement are subject to a hold period expiring May 24, 2009. Each whole warrant entitles the holder, upon exercise, to acquire one common share of the Company at a price of $0.35 until January 22, 2010. The Company has paid finders' fees totaling $50,400 cash and has issued 169,050 finder's warrants, which are also exercisable at $0.35 until January 22, 2010.
The financing proceeds will be used primarily for additional working capital at the Company's 100% owned Guanajuato and Topia Mines in Mexico.
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Reconciliation between Canadian and United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and United States Accounting Pronouncements
The effect of the measurement differences between Canadian GAAP and US GAAP on the consolidated balances sheets and statements of operations and cash flows is summarized as follows:
December 31, 2008 | December 31, 2007 | |||||||||||
Canadian | US | Canadian | US | |||||||||
GAAP | GAAP | GAAP | GAAP | |||||||||
Convertible note payable | ||||||||||||
(note (a)(iv)) | $ | 4,651,690 | $ | 6,070,000 | $ | 4,028,611 | $ | 6,070,000 | ||||
Share capital | 57,865,462 | 64,076,667 | 56,988,447 | 63,199,652 | ||||||||
Contributed surplus | 7,724,900 | 7,739,900 | 6,261,116 | 6,276,116 | ||||||||
Equity component of convertible | ||||||||||||
note (note (a)(iv)) | 2,569,000 | - | 2,569,000 | - | ||||||||
Deficit | (58,913,891 | ) | (63,989,406 | ) | (44,628,039 | ) | (50,326,633 | ) |
Share capital and contributed surplus:
2008 | 2007 | |||||
Share capital and contributed surplus, under | ||||||
Canadian GAAP | $ | 65,590,362 | $ | 63,249,563 | ||
Adjustment for stock-based compensation for | ||||||
employees (note (a)(ii)) | 15,000 | 15,000 | ||||
Reversal of recapitalization of deficit (note (a)(iii)) | 6,211,205 | 6,211,205 | ||||
Share capital and contributed surplus, under | ||||||
US GAAP | $ | 71,816,567 | $ | 69,475,768 |
Deficit:
2008 | 2007 | |||||
Deficit, under Canadian GAAP | $ | (58,913,891 | ) | $ | (44,628,039 | ) |
Adjustment for stock-based compensation for | ||||||
employees (note (a)(ii)) | (15,000 | ) | (15,000 | ) | ||
Reversal of recapitalization of deficit (note (a)(iii)) | (6,211,205 | ) | (6,211,205 | ) | ||
Interest accreted on convertible loan note (note (a)(iv)) | 1,150,690 | 527,611 | ||||
Deficit, under US GAAP | $ | (63,989,406 | ) | $ | (50,326,633 | ) |
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Loss and loss per share:
2008 | 2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Loss for the year, under Canadian GAAP | $ | (14,285,852 | ) | $ | (19,700,861 | ) | $ | (15,084,437 | ) |
Interest accreted on convertible | |||||||||
loan note (note (a)(iv)) | 623,079 | 377,812 | 149,799 | ||||||
Loss for the year, under US GAAP | $ | (13,662,773 | ) | $ | (19,323,049 | ) | $ | (14,934,638 | ) |
Basic and diluted loss per share, under | |||||||||
US GAAP | $ | (0.17 | ) | $ | (0.27 | ) | $ | (0.25 | ) |
Weighted average number of common | |||||||||
shares, basic and diluted | 81,321,733 | 72,227,455 | 59,720,424 |
(a) | These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (Canadian GAAP). A description of US GAAP and practices prescribed by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (collectively US GAAP) that result in measurement differences from Canadian GAAP are as follows: | |
(i) | Income taxes: | |
The Company follows the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes which is also in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board No. 109Accounting for Income Taxes(SFAS 109). Under Canadian GAAP, future tax assets and liabilities are recorded at substantively enacted tax rates. Under US GAAP, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded at enacted tax rates. In 2008, there were no differences between enacted and substantively enacted rates. For each of the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, net future tax assets are fully offset by a valuation allowance as it is not more likely than not that the future tax assets would be realized. As a result, the application of US GAAP in accounting for income taxes does not result in any material measurement differences from Canadian GAAP for future tax assets or liabilities. | ||
In June 2006, FASB issued Financial Interpretation No. 48,Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - An Interpretation of SFAS Statement No. 109. This interpretation provides guidance on recognition and measurement of uncertainties in income taxes and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006. For US GAAP purposes, no adjustment was required to the consolidated financial statements as a result of the adoption of this interpretation. | ||
(ii) | Stock-based compensation: | |
The Company adopted the new recommendations of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants with respect to the accounting for stock-based compensation on January 1, 2002. Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board No. 123,Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation(SFAS 123) became effective for US GAAP purposes for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1995. | ||
For fiscal years ending prior to December 31, 2003, as allowed by SFAS 123, the Company followed the intrinsic value principles of APB Opinion 25,Accounting for Stock Issued to Employeesand related interpretations, in measuring compensation expense for employee options. Under the intrinsic value method, compensation cost is the excess, if any, of the quoted market value of the stock at the measurement date, which is generally the grant date, over the amount an employee must pay to acquire the stock. The application of APB 25 resulted in compensation |
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expense of $15,000 being recognized for employees in the year ended December 31, 2001 under US GAAP and no similar expense was required under Canadian GAAP. Effective January 1, 2003, the Company adopted the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS 123 whereby the fair value of the stock options granted to employees was expensed. Under the modified prospective method of adoption selected by the Company under the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board No. 148Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation-Transition and Disclosure(SFAS 148), employee compensation cost recognized in 2003 is the same as that which would have been recognized had the provisions of SFAS 123 been applied from its original effective date. Results of prior years have not been restated. | ||
Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS 123R)Share Based Paymentusing the modified prospective method for all employee awards granted, modified or settled after the effective date using the fair value measurement method of this standard. For unvested employee equity awards as of the effective date, compensation is to be recognized based upon the grant date fair value determined under SFAS 123, adjusted to reflect the estimated impact of forfeitures. Upon adoption of SFAS 123R, there was no cumulative effect adjustment required. Non-employee awards are accounted for under the fair value method under both Canadian and US GAAP. | ||
There were no significant differences in accounting for stock-based compensation between Canadian GAAP and US GAAP during the three years ended December 31, 2008. | ||
(iii) | Elimination of deficit: | |
During the year ended December 31, 1999, the Company reduced its paid-up capital by $6,211,205 to eliminate the deficit at March 31, 1999. In order to effect these reductions, it was not necessary to revalue the assets of the Company. As a consequence, all conditions under the US GAAP quasi-reorganization rules were not met and the recapitalization of the deficit would not be recorded. | ||
(iv) | Convertible note payable: | |
Under Canadian GAAP, the proceeds of the financing allocated to the estimated fair value of the conversion feature of the debt is recorded as an equity component of the debt. Under US GAAP, a value is assigned to the conversion feature only if the effective conversion rate is less than the market price of the common stock at the date of issuance, which it was not. Accordingly, no value would be assigned under US GAAP to the conversion feature on the convertible notes issued in 2006 and 2007. | ||
Applying US GAAP, the convertible notes at December 31, 2008 would be recorded as a liability at face value of $6,070,000 and no value would be assigned to the equity component of the convertible notes. In addition, accretion on the calculated debt discounts on the convertible notes under Canadian GAAP of $623,079 (2007 - $377,812, 2006 - $149,799) for the year ended December 31, 2008 would not have been recorded, reducing interest expense by an equivalent amount. | ||
(v) | Mineral properties, plant, and equipment: | |
Production facilities and mineral property costs are currently amortized over the estimated remaining life of mine of 3 years for Guanajuato and 7 years for Topia. Under US GAAP, the Company expects to use the units-of-production method based on reserves as defined under SEC Industry Guide 7 once such reserve amounts are determinable. | ||
Under Canadian GAAP, periodic option payments related to mineral properties are expensed prior to commercial feasibility of mining operations being established. Under US GAAP, periodic option payments are capitalized when such payments are associated with the acquisition of mineral rights and amortized over their respective option term. This measurement difference is not material for all reporting periods. |
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(b) | Recently adopted United States accounting pronouncements: | ||
(i) | In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement No. 157,Fair Value Measurements. The Statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in the context of GAAP and expands the disclosure surrounding fair value measurement. The statement only applies to fair value measurements that are already required and is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. In January 2008, the FASB deferred the implementation of this standard for all non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities, except those that are or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis, until January 1, 2009. For financial assets and liabilities, the Company has adopted this standard on January 1, 2008. The impact of partially adopting FASB No. 157 for the year ended December 31, 2008 was not material to the Company’s financial statements. | ||
(ii) | In February 2007, the FASB issued Statement No. 159,Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Liabilities. This standard provides companies with an option to measure, at specified election dates, certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognized in earnings. The statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The Company has adopted this standard effective January 1, 2008, but has not elected to use the optional fair value measurement. | ||
(iii) | In May 2008, the FASB issued Statement No. 162, TheHierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. The statement identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles to be used in the preparation of financial statements in accordance with US GAAP. This statement was effective for the Company November 15, 2008, which is 60 days after the Securities and Exchange Commission’s approval of Auditing Standard No. 6,Evaluating Consistency of Financial Statements. The adoption of this standard had no significant financial effect on the financial statements. | ||
(c) | Recently issued United States accounting pronouncements: | ||
(i) | In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 160, a standard on accounting for non-controlling interests and transactions with non-controlling interest holders in consolidated financial statements. This statement specifies that non-controlling interests are to be treated as a separate component of equity, with increases and decreases in the parent’s ownership interest as capital transactions. This standard requires net income and comprehensive income to be displayed for both the controlling and the non-controlling interests. Additional required disclosures and reconciliations include a separate schedule that shows the effects of any transactions with the non-controlling interests on the equity attributable to the controlling interest. | ||
The statement is effective for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2008 and is to be applied prospectively to all non-controlling interests, including any that arose before the effective date. The Company does not expect the adoption of this Interpretation to have a significant effect on the Company’s results of operations or financial position. | |||
(ii) | In December 2007, the FASB issued a revised standard on accounting for business combinations SFAS 141(R). | ||
The major changes to accounting for business combinations are summarized as follows: | |||
• | all business acquisitions would be measured at fair value | ||
• | most acquisition-related costs would be recognized as expenses as incurred (they would no longer be part of the purchase consideration) | ||
• | non-controlling interests would be measured at fair value at the date of acquisition (i.e., 100% of the assets and liabilities would be measured at fair value even when an acquisition is less than 100%) |
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• | goodwill, if any, arising on a business combination reflects the excess of the fair value of the acquiree, as a whole, over the net amount of the recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Goodwill is allocated to the acquirer and the non- controlling interest. |
The statement is effective for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The Company does not expect the adoption of this Interpretation to have a significant effect on the Company’s results of operations or financial position. | ||
(iii) | In March 2008, the FASB issued FASB Statement No. 161,Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. This new statement enhances disclosures regarding an entity’s derivative and hedging activities. This statement is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2009. The Company is currently assessing the impact of this new standard. | |
(iv) | In May 2008, the FASB issued Staff Position No. APB 14-1,Accounting for Convertible Debt Instruments that may be Cash Settled Upon Conversion,which clarifies the accounting for convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash upon conversion. The guidance specifies that issuers of such instruments should separately account for the liability and equity components of those instruments by allocating the proceeds from issuance between the liability component and the embedded conversion option. The guidance is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2009. The Company is currently assessing the impact on the Company’s financial statements. |
(d) | International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”): |
In 2006, the Canadian Accounting Standards Board ("AcSB") published a new strategic plan that will significantly affect financial reporting requirements for Canadian companies. The AcSB strategic plan outlines the convergence of Canadian GAAP with IFRS over an expected five year transitional period. In February 2008, the AcSB announced that 2011 is the changeover date for publicly-listed companies to use IFRS, replacing Canada's own GAAP. The transition date is for interim and annual financial statements relating to fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2011. The transition date of January 1, 2011 will require the restatement for comparative purposes of amounts reported by the Company for the year ended December 31, 2010 and restatement of the opening balance sheet as at January 1, 2010.
The Company is developing an IFRS conversion plan and has completed a preliminary assessment which prioritizes how each IFRS standard will impact the financial statements. The Company anticipates there will be changes in accounting policies and these changes may materially impact our financial statements but the impact cannot be reasonably estimated at this time. The Company does anticipate a significant increase in disclosure resulting from the adoption of IFRS and is continuing to assess the level of disclosure required as well as systems changes that may be necessary to gather and process the required information.
We have begun planning our transition to IFRS and the conversion project consists of three phases: (i) Planning and Scoping, (ii) Detailed Assessment, Conversion Planning and Development, and (iii) Implementation, Parallel Reporting and Review.
Phase One: Planning and Scoping, which involves project planning and identification of differences between current Canadian GAAP and IFRS, has been largely completed. The identified areas of accounting differences of highest potential impact to the Company, based on existing IFRS are impairment of assets, asset retirement obligations, property plant and equipment, exploration and evaluation expenditures, functional currency and initial adoption of IFRS under the provisions of IFRS 1 “First-Time Adoption of IFRS” (“IFRS1”).
Phase Two: Detailed Assessment, Conversion Planning and Development involves detailed diagnostics and evaluation of the financial impacts of various options and alternative
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methodologies available under IFRS; identification and design of operational and financial business processes; initial staff training; analysis of IFRS1 optional exemptions and mandatory exceptions to the general requirement for full retrospective application upon transition to IFRS; summarization of 2011 IFRS disclosure requirements; and development of required solutions to address identified issues. It is not known whether the adoption of IFRS will have a significant impact on information systems requirements. The Company is assessing the need for system upgrades or modifications to ensure an efficient conversion to IFRS. As part of Phase Two, information systems plans will be prepared for implementation in Phase Three if necessary. The extent of the impact on the Company’s information systems is not reasonably determinable at this time.
Phase Three: Implementation, Parallel Reporting and Review, expected to commence in the latter part of 2009, will involve the execution of changes to information systems and business processes; completion of formal authorization processes to approve recommended accounting policy changes; and further training programs across the Company’s finance and other affected areas, as necessary. It will culminate in the collection of financial information necessary to compile IFRS-compliant financial statements and reconciliations; embedding of IFRS in business processes; and, audit committee approval of IFRS-compliant financial statements.
C. Research and Development
We do not currently, and did not previously, have research and development policies in place. Over the past three fiscal years, we spent approximately $250,000 on due diligence for various other mining properties.
D. Trend Information
Our business is mining of precious metals deposits, principally gold and silver, so the price of these commodities has a direct impact on our prospects for success and our ability to raise capital. The recent trend for the price of gold and silver has been positive and has remained steady at relatively high historical prices. Management believes that the current trend will continue for the foreseeable future. History has shown, however, that there can be no such assurances.
E. Off-balance Sheet Arrangements
We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements.
F. Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations
The following table outlines the contractual obligations of the Company at December 31, 2008:
Less than | 1 – 3 | 4 – 5 | After | ||||||||||||
Total | 1 year | Years | Years | 5 years | |||||||||||
Long-term debt1 | $ | 6,070,000 | $ | - | $ | 6,070,000 | $ | - | $ | - | |||||
Purchase and lease obligations2 | 3,308,050 | 1,541,050 | 1,752,000 | 15,000 | - | ||||||||||
Total obligations | $ | 9,378,050 | $ | 1,541,050 | $ | 7,822,000 | $ | 15,000 | $ | - |
1 | These payments relate to the Convertible Notes which may be converted into common shares of the Company at the holders’ option at any time. |
2 | Purchase and lease obligations include commitments for laboratory and drilling services and lease payments for operating and capital leases. |
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G. Safe Harbor
Not applicable.
ITEM 6 Directors, Senior Management and Employees
A. Directors, Officers and Senior Management
The information below sets forth the names and business experience of each of our directors, officers and senior management, as of the date hereof:
Name | Present Position Great Panther | Present Position Minera Mexican el Rosario | Present Position Alberta Subsidiary | Present Position Metalicos de Durango | Present Position Minera de Villa Seca | Present Position Exploraciones Mineras el Rosairo |
Kaare G. Foy | Executive Chairman, Director | President, Director | Director | President, Director | President, Director | President, Director |
Robert A. Archer | President, CEO, Director | Secretary, Director | n/a | Secretary, Director | Secretary, Director | Secretary, Director |
Malcolm A. Burne | Director | n/a | Director | n/a | n/a | n/a |
John T. Kopcheff | Director | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a |
Martin Carsky | Director | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a |
Wendy M. Ratcliffe | Corporate Secretary | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a |
Francisco Ramos Sanchez | Vice President - Business Development | Director | n/a | Director | Director | Director |
Robert Brown | Vice President - Exploration | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | Director |
Charles Brown | Chief Operating Officer | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a |
Raakel Iskanius | Chief Financial Officer | Chief Financial Officer | Chief Financial Officer | Chief Financial Officer | Chief Financial Officer | Chief Financial Officer |
Business Experience, Function and Area of Experience
Kaare G. Foy
As our Executive Chairman and a director, Mr. Foy is responsible for the financial and corporate management and supervision of the affairs and business of our Company and our subsidiaries.
Following graduation from Monash University in Australia, Mr. Foy became an Associate of the Australian Society of Accountants and a Member of the Australian Institute of Directors. In 1995, he emigrated to reside permanently in Canada. For most of his career, he has specialized in company "turnarounds," and has more than 30 years of experience serving on the boards of publicly listed companies in Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, including Loscam Materials Handling Limited in Australia, and Greenchip Investments PLC in the United Kingdom.
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Mr. Foy is also Executive Chairman and a director of Cangold Limited, the President of Oceanic Management Limited, and a director of Golden Prospect Precious Metals Limited, an AIM-listed company.
Robert A. Archer
As our President, Chief Executive Officer and a director, Mr. Archer is responsible for the day-to-day operations of our Company and for the development of our strategic direction. He is also responsible for the management and supervision of its affairs and business in Mexico.
Mr. Archer has more than 27 years experience working for mining companies throughout North America, namely Newmont Exploration of Canada Ltd., Rio Algom Exploration Inc., Placer Dome Canada Ltd. and Noranda Exploration Inc. He also served as President of Consolidated Magna Ventures Ltd.
Mr. Archer is the President of R. A. Archer & Associates and Platoro Resource Corp. He also serves as President and Chief Executive Officer and is a director of Cangold Limited, a company publicly listed on the TSX Venture Exchange. He is also a non-executive director of Altair Ventures Incorporated, a company also publicly listed on the TSX Venture Exchange.
Malcolm A. Burne
Mr. Burne was our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer from June 3, 1987 until April 27, 2004. Mr. Burne has been a director since June 3, 1987. As a non-executive director, he is also a member of our Audit Committee.
A self-employed business banker for many years, and formerly Executive Chairman of the Australian Bullion Company Pty. Ltd., Malcolm Burne is a director of public companies Samson Exploration NL, Jubilee Platinum PLC, Mano River Resources Inc., Great Panther Resources Limited, Cangold Limited and Golden Prospect Precious Metals Limited, a publicly listed mineral investments and gold fund company.
Mr. Burne is an independent director.
John T. Kopcheff
Mr. Kopcheff has been a director of our Company since August 2001. As a non-executive director, Mr. Kopcheff is responsible for the corporate governance of our Company, and until February 12, 2009, he was the Chairman of our Audit Committee, at which time he stepped down and he is now a member of our Audit Committee.
He is Managing Director of Victoria Petroleum NL, an oil and gas company publicly listed on the main board of the Australian Stock Exchange.
Mr. Kopcheff is an independent director.
Martin Carsky
Mr. Carsky was appointed director of our Company on February 9, 2009, at which time he was also appointed to the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee and the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. On February 12, 2009, he was appointed Chairman of the Audit Committee.
He is an experienced financial executive with extensive experience in capital markets, mergers and acquisition, restructuring, and corporate governance. He is the CEO of Anthem Ventures Capital Corp. and until recently he acted as the Executive Chairman of Metrobridge Networks International Inc., a
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wireless broadband service provider, and as the Executive Vice President of Anthem Capital Corp., the private investment arm of the Anthem Group of companies.
He is currently the director and the Chairman of the Audit Committee of Pacific Safey Products Inc. and Con-Space Communications Ltd. and is a director of Cangold Limited and Anthem Ventures Capital Corp. Mr. Carsky holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, British Columbia and holds the designation of Chartered Accountant.
Wendy Ratcliffe
Ms. Ratcliffe has been our Corporate Secretary since August 2001. She is responsible for making all necessary regulatory filings for our Company its subsidiaries. Ms. Ratcliffe is also Corporate Secretary of Cangold Limited and Monarch Energy Limited, companies listed on the TSX Venture Exchange.
Ing. Francisco Ramos Sanchez
Ing. Francisco Ramos Sanchez was appointed as Vice President of Business Development in November 2007. He is responsible for seeking out new business opportunities for Great Panther and initiating planning and permitting issues for the advancement of the Mapimi Project in Durango. He was formerly Vice President of Operations from April 2004 through November 2007.
Prior to that, Ing. Ramos was the Vice President, Operations of our subsidiary MMR, since June 1998. With more than 30 years of experience in the mining industry, Ing. Ramos is a Mexican mining engineer and metallurgist based in Queretaro, Mexico. He obtained a Master's Degree in Mining Engineering from the University of Guanajuato and has worked with senior mining companies such as Peñoles, IMMSA and Minera Autlan. He has consulted for a number of junior to mid-size companies in Canada, Mexico and the United States. He is also the general director of Minco Ingenieria y Construcciones de Queretaro, S. de R.L. de C.V.
Robert Brown
Mr. Brown has been our Vice President, Exploration since April 30, 2004. He is responsible for overseeing all exploration activities undertaken by our Company, and has particular experience in the immediate area of our Company's projects in the Sierra Madre Region of Mexico.
Mr. Brown is a Professional Engineer with a degree in Engineering Geology from Queen's University. His 28 years of experience in the mining industry includes 15 years with Lac Minerals in Canada, culminating in the position of Exploration Manager. For more than 13 years, he held senior management positions in the junior sector, working on projects throughout the Americas, Eastern Europe and Indonesia, primarily in gold and silver exploration.
Charles Brown
Mr. Brown has been our Chief Operating Officer since August 2007. He is a seasoned professional with more than 30 years experience successfully operating and developing mines both in Canada and internationally, from operating small gold mines in Ontario and Venezuela to being Managing Director of Tara Mines Ltd in Ireland, where he was responsible for one of the world's largest underground zinc mines.
Most recently he was the Project Manager for Newgold Inc. during its underground exploration and development program, leading to the completion of a positive feasibility study.
Mr. Brown graduated from Nottingham University, U.K. with an honours degree in Mining Engineering.
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Raakel Iskanius
Ms. Iskanius has been our Chief Financial Officer since May 2007. As our CFO, Ms. Iskanius is responsible for all aspects of the Company's financial management, including financial reporting, analysis of operations and regulatory compliance. Ms. Iskanius has more than 18 years of experience as a finance professional with the vast majority of her career spent in natural gas utility and multi-branch sectors. A Chartered Accountant, Ms. Iskanius has worked for companies across North America including Terasen Gas Inc., KPMG and The Loewen Group Inc.
Ms. Iskanius qualified as a Certified General Accountant in 1995 and received her Chartered Accountant designation in 1999. Ms. Iskanius is also the Chief Financial Officer of Cangold Limited, a company publicly listed on the TSX Venture Exchange.
Family Relationships
There are no family relationships between any of the persons named above.
Other Relationships
There are no arrangements or understandings between any major shareholder, customer, supplier or others, pursuant to which any of the above-named persons were selected as directors or members of senior management.
B. Compensation
Other than as set forth in the table below, none of our executive officers was paid or earned compensation for performing his duties during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008. The value of perquisites and other personal benefits, securities and property for the executive officers that do not exceed the lesser of $50,000 or 10% of the total of the annual salary and bonus are not reported herein.
During our last full financial year end, the following persons were or are our directors and executive officers:
Name | Principal Position | From | To |
Robert A. Archer | President and Chief Executive Officer | April 27, 2004 | Present |
Director | April 27, 2004 | Present | |
Malcolm A. Burne | Director | June 3, 1987 | Present |
Kaare G. Foy | Executive Chairman | April 27, 2004 | Present |
Director | June 23, 1994 | ||
John T. Kopcheff | Director | August 16, 2001 | Present |
A. Michael Turko | Director | July 7, 2006 | February 9, 2009 |
Francisco Ramos Sánchez | Vice President, Business Development | November 13, 2007 | Present |
Vice President, Operations | April 30, 2004 | November 13, 2007 | |
Robert F. Brown | Vice President, Exploration | April 30, 2004 | Present |
Charles Brown | Chief Operating Officer | August 15, 2007 | Present |
Raakel Iskanius | Chief Financial Officer | May 22, 2007 | Present |
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Summary Compensation Table
Annual Compensation | Long Term Compensation | |||||||
Awards | Payouts | |||||||
Name | Year | Salary ($) | Bonus ($) | Other Annual Compen- sation ($) | Securities Under Options Granted (#) | Restricted Shares or Restricted Share Units ($) | LTIP Payouts ($) | All Other Compen- sation ($) |
Robert A. Archer | 2008 | 30,000(1) | nil | nil | nil | nil | n/a | 301,324(2) |
Malcolm Burne | 2008 | 30,000(1) | nil | nil | nil | nil | n/a | nil |
Kaare G. Foy | 2008 | 30,000(1) | nil | nil | nil | nil | n/a | 330,637(3) |
John T. Kopcheff | 2008 | 30,000(1) | nil | nil | nil | nil | n/a | nil |
A. Michael Turko | 2008 | 30,000(1) | nil | nil | nil | nil | n/a | nil |
Francisco Ramos Sánchez | 2008 | nil | nil | nil | nil | nil | n/a | 266,230(4) |
Robert F. Brown | 2008 | 149,400 | nil | nil | nil | nil | n/a | nil |
Charles Brown | 2008 | 192,000 | nil | nil | nil | nil | n/a | nil |
Raakel Iskanius | 2008 | 150,000 | nil | nil | nil | nil | n/a | nil |
(1) | Directors' fees. |
(2) | Consulting fees and other benefits paid to Platoro Resource Corp., a company controlled by Robert A. Archer. |
(3) | Of this amount, $294,499 was paid for consulting and other benefits and $36,138 was paid for rent and other services to Oceanic Management Limited, a company controlled by Kaare G. Foy. |
(4) | Consulting fees paid to Francisco Ramos Sánchez. |
Compensation of Directors
During the financial year ended December 31, 2008, the remuneration paid or accrued to directors in their capacity as directors of our Company was as follows:
Kaare G. Foy | $30,000 |
Robert A. Archer | $30,000 |
Malcolm A. Burne | $30,000 |
John T. Kopcheff | $30,000 |
A. Michael Turko | $30,000 |
We have an incentive stock option plan in which directors are eligible to participate. No stock options were granted to directors during the year ended December 31, 2008.
C. Board Practices
The election and retirement of our directors are provided for in our by-laws. An election of directors takes place at each annual meeting of shareholders and all the directors then in office retire but, if qualified, are eligible for re-election. A director retains office only until the election of his successor. The number of directors to be elected at such meeting is the number of directors then in office, unless the
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directors or the shareholders otherwise determine. The election is by ordinary resolution of shareholders. If an election of directors is not held at the proper time, the incumbent directors continue in office until their successors are elected. Our last annual general meeting was held on June 27, 2008.
Our by-laws also permit the directors to add additional directors to the board between annual general meetings as long as the number appointed does not exceed one-third of the number directors elected at the last annual general meeting. Individuals appointed as directors to fill casual vacancies created on the board or added as additional directors hold office like any other director until the next annual general meeting at which time they may be re-elected or replaced.
Our officers are re-elected at a directors' meeting following each annual general meeting.
The members of our audit committee included John T. Kopcheff, Malcolm A. Burne and A. Michael Turko up until February 9, 2009, at which time A. Michael Turko resigned as director and Martin Carsky was appointed. The audit committee reviews and approves the scope of the audit procedures employed by our independent auditors, reviews the results of the auditor's examination, the scope of audits, the auditor's opinion on the adequacy of internal controls and quality of financial reporting and our accounting and reporting principles, policies and practices, as well as our accounting, financial and operating controls. The audit committee also reports to the board of directors with respect to such matters and recommends the selection of independent auditors. Before financial statements that are to be submitted to the shareholders at an annual general meeting are considered by the board of directors, such financial statements are submitted to the audit committee for review with the independent auditors, following which the report of the audit committee on the financial statements is submitted to the board of directors.
The members of the nominating and corporate governance committee included A. Michael Turko, Malcolm A. Burne and John T. Kopcheff up until February 9, 2009, at which time A. Michael Turko resigned as director and Martin Carsky was appointed. The mandate of the nominating and corporate governance committee is to identify individuals qualified to be nominated for election as directors of the Company or any of the Board's committees, evaluate the qualifications and independence of each member of the Board and its committees and recommend to the Board any appropriate changes in the composition of the Board and any of its committees, evaluate the performance of the Board and its committees; and develop and recommend to the Board corporate governance principles.
The members of the compensation committee included Malcolm A. Burne, John T. Kopcheff and A. Michael Turko up until February 9, 2009, at which time A. Michael Turko resigned as a director and Martin Carsky was appointed. The compensation committee reviews and approves the total compensation package for the Corporation’s senior executives including, without limitation, their base salaries, annual incentives, deferred compensation, stock options and other equity-based compensation, incentive compensation, special benefits, perquisites, and incidental benefits.
D. Employees
During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2008, December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, we had direct employees as outlined below. Prior to 2007, the majority of the Company’s workforce was independent contractors rendering services to the different subsidiaries.
Company | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | |
Great Panther Resources Limited. | 10 | 15 | Nil | |
Minera Mexicana el Rosario, S.A. de C.V. | Nil | Nil | Nil | |
Metalicos de Durango, S.A. de C.V. | 46 | 46 | 35 |
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Minera de Villa Seca, S.A. de C.V. | 54 | 56 | 28 | |
Exploraciones Mineras el Rosario, S.A. de C.V. | 4 | 17 | N/A | |
TOTAL | 114 | 134 | 63 |
We do not currently have a collective bargaining arrangement with any labour union or association.
E. Share Ownership
Our authorized share capital consists of an unlimited number of common shares without par value, an unlimited number of Class A preferred shares without par value issuable in series, and an unlimited number of Class B preferred shares without par value issuable in series.
The following table sets out, as at March 18, 2009, the number of securities beneficially owned by our directors and officers, whom, to our knowledge, possess sole voting and investment power with respect to the securities shown:
Number of Securities | ||
Name of Beneficial Holder | Beneficially Owned | Percentage(1) |
Robert A. Archer | 2,000,100 | 2.07% |
Charles P. Brown | 697,500 | 0.72% |
Robert F. Brown | 365,000 | 0.38% |
Malcolm A. Burne | 843,033 | 0.87% |
Martin B. Carsky(2) | 150,000 | 0.16% |
Kaare G. Foy | 843,600 | 0.87% |
Raakel Iskanius | 197,500 | 0.20% |
John T. Kopcheff | 587,000 | 0.61% |
Francisco Ramos Sanchez | 1,521,000 | 1.57% |
Wendy M. Ratcliffe | 342,500 | 0.35% |
Sergio Rios Martinez | 100,000 | 0.10% |
(1) | Based on the following securities issued and outstanding as at March 18, 2009: | |
- | 86,779,521 common shares; | |
- | 7,217,700 incentive stock options, all exercisable within 60 days of March 18, 2009, for the purchase of up to 7,217,700 common share; and | |
- | 2,731,550 warrants, all exercisable within 60 days of March 18, 2009, for the purchase of up to 2,731,550 common shares. | |
(2) | Appointed a director on February 9, 2009. |
The voting rights attached to the common shares owned by our directors and officers do not differ from those voting rights attached to shares owned by people who are not directors or officers of our Company.
As at March 18, 2009, our directors and officers held, as a group, directly or indirectly, an aggregate of 3,808,733 common shares, 3,556,000 options exercisable within 60 days and 282,500 warrants exercisable within 60 days.
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The total number of options outstanding as at March 18, 2009, all exercisable within 60 days, granted to our directors and officers are set out below:
Number of Options | |||
Name | Outstanding | Exercise Price | Expiry Date |
Robert A. Archer | 100,000 | $0.45 | July 26, 2010 |
125,000 | $0.90 | January 5, 2011 | |
250,000 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 | |
Charles P. Brown | 150,000 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 |
Robert F. Brown | 40,000 | $0.45 | May 25, 2009 |
100,000 | $0.90 | January 5, 2011 | |
150,000 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 | |
Malcolm A. Burne | 25,000 | $0.45 | February 27, 2010 |
100,000 | $0.45 | July 26, 2010 | |
125,000 | $0.90 | January 5, 2011 | |
253,000 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 | |
Martin B. Carsky(2) | 150,000 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 |
Kaare G. Foy | 25,000 | $0.45 | February 27, 2010 |
205,000 | $0.90 | January 5, 2011 | |
250,000 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 | |
Raakel Iskanius | 150,000 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 |
John T. Kopcheff | 25,000 | $0.45 | February 27, 2010 |
100,000 | $0.45 | July 26, 2010 | |
125,000 | $0.90 | January 5, 2011 | |
257,000 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 | |
Francisco Ramos Sanchez | 25,000 | $0.45 | February 27, 2010 |
75,000 | $0.45 | July 26, 2010 | |
125,000 | $0.90 | January 5, 2011 | |
221,000 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 | |
Wendy M. Ratcliffe | 30,000 | $0.52 | April 5, 2009 |
25,000 | $0.45 | February 27, 2010 | |
25,000 | $0.45 | July 26, 2010 | |
25,000 | $0.90 | January 5, 2011 | |
200,000 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 | |
Sergio Rios Martinez | 100,000 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 |
The total number of warrants outstanding as at March 18, 2009, all exercisable within 60 days, issued to our directors and officers are set out below:
Number of Warrants | |||
Name | Outstanding | Exercise Price | Expiry Date |
Robert A. Archer | 25,000 | $0.35 | January 22, 2010 |
Charles P. Brown | 182,500 | $0.35 | January 22, 2010 |
Robert F. Brown | 25,000 | $0.35 | January 22, 2010 |
Kaare G. Foy | 25,000 | $0.35 | January 22, 2010 |
Raakel Iskanius | 12,500 | $0.35 | January 22, 2010 |
Wendy Ratcliffe | 12,500 | $0.35 | January 22, 2010 |
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Stock Option Plan
We have an incentive stock option plan that provides for the grant of incentive stock options to purchase our common shares to our directors, officers and key employees and other persons providing ongoing services to us. Our stock option plan is administered by our board of directors. The maximum number of our common shares which may be reserved and set aside for issuance under our stock option plan is equal to 10% of the number of common shares outstanding from time to time on a non-diluted basis. Each option upon its exercise entitles the grantee to one common share. The exercise price of common shares subject to an option will be determined by the board of directors at the time of grant and will be not less than the discounted market price of the common shares at the date of grant, as determined under the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange. Options may be granted under our stock option plan for an exercise period of up to five years from the date of grant of the option or such lesser periods as may be determined by our board of directors.
On March 7, 2008, the Board of Directors approved the adoption of a Shareholder Rights Plan (the "Plan") as part of its procedures for dealing with any parties who may seek to acquire control of the Company through a take-over bid or other transaction. To implement the Plan, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized the issue of one Right in respect of each common share of the Company outstanding to holders of record on March 7, 2008. Until the occurrence of certain specific events, the Rights will trade with the common shares of the Company.
The Rights become exercisable only when a person, including any party related to it or acting jointly with it, acquires or announces its intention to acquire 20% or more of the outstanding common shares of the Company without complying with the "Permitted Bid" provisions of the Plan. Under the Plan, a Permitted Bid is a bid made to all shareholders on identical terms and conditions that is open for at least 60 days. If at the end of 60 days more than 50% of the outstanding shares, other than those owned by the offeror and certain persons related to the offeror or acting jointly with it, have been tendered, the offeror may take up and pay for the shares but must extend the bid for a further 10 business days to allow all other shareholders to tender. Should a non-permitted acquisition occur, each Right would entitle each holder of common shares (other than the offeror and certain parties related to the offeror or acting jointly with it) to purchase additional common shares of the Company at a 50% discount to the market price at the time. Although the Plan became effective upon its adoption by the Board of Directors, in accordance with stock exchange requirements it was submitted to shareholders of the Company for ratification at the annual shareholders meeting on June 27, 2008, when it was passed and ratified. The Plan will continue until the annual general meeting of shareholders in 2012. The Plan was accepted by the Toronto Stock Exchange.
The total number of options outstanding as at March 18, 2009, granted to our directors and executive officers as a group, to our non-executive officers as a group, to our employees as a group and to our consultants as a group, are set out below:
Number of Options | |||
Name | Outstanding | Exercise Price | Expiry Date |
Directors and Executive | 40,000 | $0.45 | May 25, 2009 |
Officers | 100,000 | $0.45 | February 27, 2010 |
375,000 | $0.45 | July 26, 2010 | |
805,000 | $0.90 | January 5, 2011 | |
1,831,000 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 | |
Non-executive Officers | 30,000 | $0.52 | April 5, 2009 |
25,000 | $0.45 | February 27, 2010 | |
25,000 | $0.45 | July 26, 2010 |
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Number of Options | |||
Name | Outstanding | Exercise Price | Expiry Date |
25,000 | $0.90 | January 5, 2011 | |
300,000 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 | |
Employees | 2,971,700 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 |
Consultants | 650,000 | $0.45 | February 8, 2014 |
160,000 | $0.45 | February 29, 2012 |
ITEM 7 Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions
A. Major Shareholders
As of February 28, 2009, Computershare Trust Company of Canada, our registrar and transfer agent, reported that we had 86,779,521 common shares issued and outstanding. Of those common shares, 80,479,838 common shares were registered to Canadian residents (50 shareholders); 4,876,919 common shares were registered to residents of the United States (100 shareholders); and 1,422,764 common shares were registered to residents of other foreign countries (19 shareholders). There are no persons known to us to be the beneficial owners of more than five (5%) of those common shares.
To the best of our knowledge, we are not directly or indirectly owned or controlled by another corporation, by any foreign government or by any other natural or legal person.
There are no arrangements known to us, the operation of which may at a subsequent date result in a change in the control of our Company.
B. Related Party Transactions
Other than as disclosed below or elsewhere in this annual report, to the best of our knowledge, there have been no material transactions or loans from the commencement of our 2008 fiscal year to the date of this annual report between our Company and: (a) enterprises that directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, control or are controlled by, or are under common control with, our Company; (b) associates; (c) individuals owning, directly or indirectly, an interest in the voting power of our Company that gives them significant influence over our Company, and close members of any such individual's family; (d) key management personnel of our Company, including directors and senior management of our Company and close members of such individuals' families; and (e) enterprises in which a substantial interest in the voting power is owned, directly or indirectly, by any person described in (c) or (d) or over which such a person is able to exercise significant influence.
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During the year ended December 31, 2008, we entered into the following transactions with related parties:
2008 | 2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Consulting fees paid or accrued to companies controlled by directors of the Company | $ | 595,823 | $ | 539,000 | $ | 388,250 | |||
Consulting fees paid or accrued to companies controlled by officers of the Company | 266,230 | 395,943 | 272,578 | ||||||
Cost recoveries received or accrued from a company with a common director of the Company | 82,397 | 631,117 | - | ||||||
Office and administration fees paid or accrued to a company controlled by a director of the Company | 36,138 | 39,879 | 101,060 | ||||||
As at December 31, 2008, $314,435 (2007 - $74,401; 2006 - nil) was due to companies controlled by officers and directors of the Company. Amounts due from a company with a common director were $61,720 (2007 - $400,742, 2006 - nil).
ITEM 8 Financial Information
Our financial statements are stated in Canadian dollars and are prepared in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles with a reconciliation to United States generally accepted accounting principles. In this annual report, unless otherwise specified, all dollar amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars.
Financial Statements filed as part of this Annual Report, under item 17 “Financial Statements”:
- | Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm dated March 11, 2009. |
- | Consolidated balance sheets for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2008, and 2007. |
- | Consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss and deficit for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2008, 2007, and 2006. |
- | Consolidated statements of cash flows for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2008, 2007, and 2006. |
- | Notes to consolidated financial statements |
Dividend Distributions
Holders of our common shares are entitled to receive such dividends as may be declared from time to time by our board, in its discretion, out of funds legally available for that purpose. We intend to retain future earnings, if any, for use in the operation and expansion of our business and do not intend to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future.
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Significant Changes
Other than as disclosed in this annual report, no significant change has occurred in our Company's financial statements since the financial year ended December 31, 2008.
ITEM 9 The Offer and Listing
A. Offer and Listing Details
Price History
On June 18, 1980, our common shares were listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (formerly known as the CDNX, and the Vancouver Stock Exchange). Our common shares traded on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "GPR", and we were classified by the TSX Venture Exchange as a Tier 2 company.
On October 2, 2003, our common share capital was consolidated on the basis of one new common share for each ten old common shares.
On February 28, 2006, we were elevated to Tier 1 of the TSX Venture Exchange.
On November 3, 2006, we received conditional approval for our TSX listing.
On November 14, 2006, our common shares became listed on the TSX.
The annual high and low market prices for our common shares for the five most recent full fiscal years were as follows:
Year Ended | High | Low |
December 31, 2004 | $0.77 | $0.33 |
December 31, 2005 | $1.17 | $0.36 |
December 31, 2006 | $2.79 | $0.80 |
December 31, 2007 | $2.53 | $1.07 |
December 31, 2008 | $1.72 | $0.18 |
The high and low market prices for our common shares for each full financial quarter for the two most recent full fiscal years were as follows:
Quarter Ended | High | Low |
March 31, 2007 | $2.53 | $1.77 |
June 30, 2007 | $2.20 | $1.60 |
September 30, 2007 | $2.15 | $1.07 |
December 31, 2007 | $1.75 | $1.09 |
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Quarter Ended | High | Low |
March 31, 2008 | $1.72 | $0.85 |
June 30, 2008 | $1.48 | $1.05 |
September 30, 2008 | $1.24 | $0.52 |
December 31, 2008 | $0.70 | $0.18 |
The high and low market prices for our common shares for each of the most recent six months, from September, 2008 through February, 2009 were as follows:
Month Ended | High | Low |
September 30, 2008 | $0.85 | $0.52 |
October 31, 2008 | $0.70 | $0.18 |
November 30, 2008 | $0.44 | $0.21 |
December 31, 2008 | $0.31 | $0.22 |
January 31, 2009 | $0.45 | $0.23 |
February 28, 2009 | $0.53 | $0.31 |
The transfer of our common shares is managed by our transfer agent, Computershare Trust Company of Canada.
B. Plan of Distribution
Not applicable.
C. Markets
Our common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbol "GPR" effective November 14, 2006. Our CUSIP number is 39115T 106.
D. Selling Shareholders
Not applicable.
E. Dilution
Not applicable
F. Expenses of the Issue
Not applicable.
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ITEM 10 Additional Information
A. Share Capital
Not applicable
B. Memorandum and Articles of Association
The information required by this section is incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on August 10, 2004.
C. Material Contracts
The following is a summary of each material contract, other than contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business, to which we or any of our subsidiaries is a party, for the two years immediately preceding publication of the document, including dates, parties, general nature of the contracts, terms and conditions, and amount of any consideration passing to or from us or any other member of the group:
On January 23, 2009 we closed a private placement offering of 5,125,000 units of the Company (“Units”) at a price of $0.20 per Unit to raise gross proceeds of $1,025,000. Each Unit comprises of one common share and one-half of one share purchase warrant. Each whole warrant entitles the holder, upon exercise, to acquire one common share of the Company at a price of $0.35 per share until January 22, 2010. The Company authorized and created 169,050 non-transferable share purchase warrants (the “Finder’s Warrants”) to purchase up to 169,050 common shares and entitling the holder to purchase one common share at a price of $0.35 until January 22, 2010.
D. Exchange Controls
There are no government laws, decrees or regulations in Canada which restrict the export or import of capital or which affect the remittance of dividends, interest or other payments to non-resident holders of our common shares. Any remittances of dividends to United States residents and to other non-residents are, however, subject to withholding tax. See "Taxation" below.
E. Taxation
Canadian Federal Income Taxation
We consider that the following summary fairly describes the principal Canadian federal income tax consequences applicable to a holder of our common shares who at all material times deals at arm's length with our Company, who holds all common shares as capital property, who is resident in the United States, who is not a resident of Canada and who does not use or hold, and is not deemed to use or hold, his common shares of our Company in connection with carrying on a business in Canada (a "non-resident holder"). It is assumed that the common shares will at all material times be listed on a stock exchange that is prescribed for purposes of theIncome Tax Act (Canada) (the "ITA") and regulations thereunder. Investors should be aware that the Canadian federal income tax consequences applicable to holders of our common shares will change if, for any reason, we cease to be listed on a prescribed stock exchange. Accordingly, holders and prospective holders of our common shares should consult with their own tax advisors with respect to the income tax consequences of them purchasing, owing and disposing of our common shares should we cease to be listed on a prescribed stock exchange.
This summary is based upon the current provisions of the ITA, the regulations thereunder, the Canada-United States Tax Convention as amended by the Protocols thereto (the "Treaty") as at the date of the registration statement and the currently publicly announced administrative and assessing policies of the Canada Revenue Agency (the "CRA"). This summary does not take into account Canadian provincial
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income tax consequences. This description is not exhaustive of all possible Canadian federal income tax consequences and does not take into account or anticipate any changes in law, whether by legislative, governmental or judicial action. This summary does, however, take into account all specific proposals to amend the ITA and regulations thereunder, publicly announced by the Government of Canada to the date hereof.
This summary does not address potential tax effects relevant to our Company or those tax considerations that depend upon circumstances specific to each investor. Accordingly, holders and prospective holders of our common shares should consult with their own tax advisors with respect to the income tax consequences to them of purchasing, owning and disposing of common shares in our Company.
Dividends
The ITA provides that dividends and other distributions deemed to be dividends paid or deemed to be paid by a Canadian resident corporation (such as our Company) to a non-resident of Canada shall be subject to a non-resident withholding tax equal to 25% of the gross amount of the dividend or deemed dividend. Provisions in the ITA relating to dividend and deemed dividend payments to and gains realized by non-residents of Canada, who are residents of the United States, are subject to the Treaty. The Treaty may reduce the withholding tax rate on dividends as discussed below.
Article X of the Treaty as amended by the US-Canada Protocol ratified on November 9, 1995 provides a 5% withholding tax on gross dividends or deemed dividends paid to a United States corporation which beneficially owns at least 10% of the voting stock of the company paying the dividend. In cases where dividends or deemed dividends are paid to a United States resident (other than a corporation) or a United States corporation which beneficially owns less than 10% of the voting stock of a company, a withholding tax of 15% is imposed on the gross amount of the dividend or deemed dividend paid. We would be required to withhold any such tax from the dividend and remit the tax directly to CRA for the account of the investor.
The reduction in withholding tax from 25%, pursuant to the Treaty, will not be available:
(a) if the shares in respect of which the dividends are paid formed part of the business property or were otherwise effectively connected with a permanent establishment or fixed base that the holder has or had in Canada within the 12 months preceding the disposition, or
(b) the holder is a U.S. LLC which is not subject to tax in the U.S.
The Treaty generally exempts from Canadian income tax dividends paid to a religious, scientific, literary, educational or charitable organization or to an organization exclusively administering a pension, retirement or employee benefit fund or plan, if the organization is resident in the U.S. and is exempt from income tax under the laws of the U.S.
Capital Gains
A non-resident holder is not subject to tax under the ITA in respect of a capital gain realized upon the disposition of one of our shares unless the share represents "taxable Canadian property" to the holder thereof. Our common shares will be considered taxable Canadian property to a non-resident holder only if:
(a) | the non-resident holder; |
(b) | persons with whom the non-resident holder did not deal at arm's length; or |
(c) | the non-resident holder and persons with whom he did not deal at arm's length, |
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owned not less than 25% of the issued shares of any class or series of our Company at any time during the five year period preceding the disposition. In the case of a non-resident holder to whom shares of our Company represent taxable Canadian property and who is resident in the United States, no Canadian taxes will generally be payable on a capital gain realized on such shares by reason of the Treaty unless:
(a) the value of such shares is derived principally from real property (including resource property) situated in Canada,
(b) the holder was resident in Canada for 120 months during any period of 20 consecutive years preceding, and at any time during the 10 years immediately preceding, the disposition and the shares were owned by him when he ceased to be a resident of Canada,
(c) they formed part of the business property or were otherwise effectively connected with a permanent establishment or fixed base that the holder has or bad in Canada within the 12 months preceding the disposition, or
(d) the holder is a U.S. LLC which is not subject to tax in the U.S.
If subject to Canadian tax on such a disposition, the taxpayer's capital gain (or capital loss) from a disposition is the amount by which the taxpayer's proceeds of disposition exceed (or are exceeded by) the aggregate of the taxpayer's adjusted cost base of the shares and reasonable expenses of disposition. For Canadian income tax purposes, the "taxable capital gain" is equal to one-half of the capital gain.
United States Federal Income Taxation
The following is a discussion of the material United States Federal income tax consequences, under current law, applicable to a U.S. Holder (as defined below) of our common shares who holds such shares as capital assets. This discussion does not address all potentially relevant Federal income tax matters and it does not address consequences peculiar to persons subject to special provisions of Federal income tax law, such as those described below as excluded from the definition of a U.S. Holder. In addition, this discussion does not cover any state, local, or foreign tax consequences. (See "Canadian Federal Income Tax Consequences" above).
The following discussion is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), Treasury Regulations, published Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") rulings, published administrative positions of the IRS and court decisions that are currently applicable, any or all of which could be materially and adversely changed, possibly on a retroactive basis, at any time. In addition, this discussion does not consider the potential effects, both adverse and beneficial, of any recently proposed legislation which, if enacted, could be applied, possibly on a retroactive basis, at any time.
The discussion below does not address potential tax effects relevant to our Company or those tax considerations that depend upon circumstances specific to each investor. In addition, this discussion does not address the tax consequences that may be relevant to particular investors subject to special treatment under certain U.S. Federal income tax laws, such as, dealers in securities, tax-exempt entities, banks, insurance companies and non-U.S. Holders. Purchasers of the common stock should therefore satisfy themselves as to the overall tax consequences of their ownership of the common stock, including the State, local and foreign tax consequences thereof (which are not reviewed herein), and should consult their own tax advisors with respect to their particular circumstances.
U.S. Holders
As used herein, a "U.S. Holder" includes a beneficial holder of common shares of our Company who is a citizen or resident of the United States, a corporation or partnership created or organized in or under the
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laws of the United States or of any political subdivision thereof, any trust if a US court is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of the trust and one or more US persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust, any entity created or organized in the United States which is taxable as a corporation for U.S. tax purposes and any other person or entity whose ownership of common shares of our Company is effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business in the United States. A U.S. Holder does not include persons subject to special provisions of Federal income tax law, such as tax-exempt organizations, qualified retirement plans, financial institutions, insurance companies, real estate investment trusts, regulated investment companies, broker-dealers, non-resident alien individuals or foreign corporations whose ownership of our common shares is not effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business in the United States and shareholders who acquired their shares through the exercise of employee stock options or otherwise as compensation.
Dividend Distribution on Shares of our Company
U.S. Holders receiving dividend distributions (including constructive dividends) with respect to the common shares of our Company are required to include in gross income for United States Federal income tax purposes the gross amount of such distributions to the extent that we have current or accumulated earnings and profits, without reduction for any Canadian income tax withheld from such distributions. Such Canadian tax withheld may be deducted or may be credited against actual tax payable, subject to certain limitations and other complex rules, against the U.S. Holder's United States Federal taxable income. See "Foreign Tax Credit" below. To the extent that distributions exceed our current or accumulated earnings and profits, they will be treated first as a return of capital to the extent of the shareholder's basis in the common shares of our Company and thereafter as gain from the sale or exchange of the common shares of our Company. Preferential tax rates for net long term capital gains may be applicable to a U.S. Holder which is an individual, estate or trust.
In general, dividends paid on our common shares will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction provided to corporations receiving dividends from certain United States corporations.
Foreign Tax Credit
A U.S. Holder who pays (or who has had withheld from distributions) Canadian income tax with respect to the ownership of our common shares may be entitled, at the election of the U.S. Holder, to either a deduction or a tax credit for such foreign tax paid or withheld. This election is made on a year-by-year basis and generally applies to all foreign income taxes paid by (or withheld from) the U.S. Holder during that year. There are significant and complex limitations which apply to the credit, among which is the general limitation that the credit cannot exceed the proportionate share of the U.S. Holder's United States income tax liability that the U.S. Holder's foreign source income bears to his or its world-wide taxable income. In determining the application of this limitation, the various items of income and deduction must be classified into foreign and domestic sources. Complex rules govern income such as "passive income", "high withholding tax interest", "financial services income", "shipping income" and certain other classifications of income. A U.S. Holder who is treated as a domestic U.S. corporation owning 10% or more of our voting stock is also entitled to a deemed paid foreign tax credit in certain circumstances for the underlying foreign tax of our Company related to dividends received or Subpart F income received from us. (See the discussion below of Controlled Foreign Corporations). The availability of the foreign tax credit and the application of the limitations on the foreign tax credit are fact specific and holders and prospective holders of our common shares should consult their own tax advisors regarding their individual circumstances.
Disposition of Common Shares
If a "U.S. Holder" is holding shares as a capital asset, a gain or loss realized on a sale of our common shares will generally be a capital gain or loss, and will be long-term if the shareholder has a holding
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period of more than one year. However, gains realized upon sale of our common shares may, under certain circumstances, be treated as ordinary income, if we were determined to be a "collapsible corporation" within the meaning of Code Section 341 based on the facts in existence on the date of the sale (See below for definition of "collapsible corporation"). The amount of gain or loss recognized by a selling U.S. Holder will be measured by the difference between (i) the amount realized on the sale and (ii) his tax basis in our common shares. Capital losses are deductible only to the extent of capital gains. However, in the case of taxpayers other than corporations US$3,000 ($1,500 for married individuals filing separately) of capital losses are deductible against ordinary income annually. In the case of individuals and other non-corporate taxpayers, capital losses that are not currently deductible may be carried forward to other years. In the case of corporations, capital losses that are not currently deductible are carried back to each of the three years preceding the loss year and forward to each of the five years succeeding the loss year.
A "collapsible corporation" is a corporation that is formed or availed principally to manufacture, construct, produce, or purchase prescribed types or property that the corporation holds for less than three years and that generally would produce ordinary income on its disposition, with a view to the stockholders selling or exchanging their stock and thus realizing gain before the corporation realizes two thirds of the taxable income to be derived from prescribed property. Prescribed property includes: stock in trade and inventory; property held primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business; unrealized receivables or fees, consisting of rights to payment for non-capital assets delivered or to be delivered, or services rendered or to be rendered to the extent not previously included in income, but excluding receivables from selling property that is not prescribed; and property gain on the sale of which is subject to the capital gain/ordinary loss rule. Generally, a shareholder who owns directly or indirectly 5 percent or less of the outstanding stock of the corporation may treat gain on the sale of his shares as capital gain.
Other Considerations for U.S. Holders
In the following circumstances, the above sections of this discussion may not describe the United States Federal income tax consequences resulting from the holding and disposition of common shares of the Registrantour company. Our management is of the opinion that there is little, if not, any likelihood that we will be deemed a "Foreign Personal Holding Company", a "Foreign Investment Company" or a "Controlled Foreign Corporation" (each as defined below) under current and anticipated conditions.
Foreign Personal Holding Company
If at any time during a taxable year more than 50% of the total combined voting power or the total value of our outstanding shares is owned, actually or constructively, by five or fewer individuals who are citizens or residents of the United States and 60% or more of our gross income for such year was derived from certain passive sources (e.g., from dividends received from its subsidiaries), we would be treated as a "foreign personal holding company". In that event, U.S. Holders that hold common shares in our capital would be required to include in income for such year their allocable portion of our passive income which would have been treated as a dividend had that passive income actually been distributed.
Foreign Investment Company
If 50% or more of the combined voting power or total value of our outstanding shares are held, actually or constructively, by citizens or residents of the United States, United States domestic partnerships or corporations, or estates or trusts other than foreign estates or trusts (as defined by the Code Section 7701(a)(31)), and we are found to be engaged primarily in the business of investing, reinvesting, or trading in securities, commodities, or any interest therein, it is possible that we might be treated as a "foreign investment company" as defined in Section 1246 of the Code, causing all or part of any gain
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realized by a U.S. Holder selling or exchanging our common shares to be treated as ordinary income rather than capital gains.
Passive Foreign Investment Company
A U.S. Holder who holds stock in a foreign corporation during any year in which such corporation qualifies as a passive foreign investment company ("PFIC") is subject to U.S. federal income taxation of that foreign corporation under one of two alternative tax methods at the election of each such U.S. Holder.
Section 1297 of the Code defines a PFIC as a corporation that is not formed in the United States and, for any taxable year, either (i) 75% or more of its gross income is "passive income," which includes interest, dividends and certain rents and royalties or (ii) the average percentage, by value (or, if the company is a controlled foreign corporation or makes an election, adjusted tax basis), of its assets that produce or are held for the production of "passive income" is 50% or more. For taxable years of U.S. persons beginning after December 31, 1997, and for tax years of foreign corporations ending with or within such tax years, the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 provides that publicly traded corporations must apply this test on a fair market value basis only. The Registrant believes that it is a PFIC.
As a PFIC, each U.S. Holder must determine under which of the alternative tax methods it wishes to be taxed. Under one method, a U.S. Holder who elects in a timely manner to treat the Registrant our company as a Qualified Electing Fund ("QEF"), as defined in the Code, (an "Electing U.S. Holder") will be subject, under Section 1293 of the Code, to current federal income tax for any taxable year in which we our company qualifies as a PFIC on his pro-rata share of our company’s (i) "net capital gain" (the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss), which will be taxed as long-term capital gain to the Electing U.S. Holder and (ii) "ordinary earnings" (the excess of earnings and profits over net capital gain), which will be taxed as ordinary income to the Electing U.S. Holder, in each case, for the U.S. Holder's taxable year in which (or with which) our taxable year ends, regardless of whether such amounts are actually distributed. Such an election, once made shall apply to all subsequent years unless revoked with the consent of the IRS.
A QEF election also allows the Electing U.S. Holder to (i) generally treat any gain realized on the disposition of his common shares (or deemed to be realized on the pledge of his common shares) as capital gain; (ii) treat his share of our net capital gain, if any, as long-term capital gain instead of ordinary income, and (iii) either avoid interest charges resulting from PFIC status altogether (see discussion of interest charge below), or make an annual election, subject to certain limitations, to defer payment of current taxes on his share of our annual realized net capital gain and ordinary earnings subject, however, to an interest charge. If the Electing U.S. Holder is an individual, such an interest charge would be not deductible.
The procedure a U.S. Holder must comply with in making an timely QEF election will depend on whether the year of the election is the first year in the U.S. Holder's holding period in which we are our company is a PFIC. If the U.S. Holder makes a QEF election in such first year, (sometimes referred to as a "Pedigreed QEF Election"), then the U.S. Holder may make the QEF election by simply filing the appropriate documents at the time the U.S. Holder files its tax return for such first year. If, however, we our company qualified as a PFIC in a prior year, then the U.S. Holder may make an "Unpedigreed QEF Election" by recognizing as an "excess distribution" (i) under the rules of Section 1291 (discussed below), any gain that he would otherwise recognize if the U.S. Holder sold his stock on the qualification date (Deemed Sale Election) or (ii) if we are a controlled foreign corporation ("CFC"), the Holder's pro rata share of the corporation's earnings and profits (Deemed Dividend Election) (But see "Elimination of Overlap Between Subpart F Rules and PFIC Provisions"). The effect of either the deemed sale election or the deemed dividend election is to pay all prior deferred tax, to pay interest on the tax deferral and to be treated thereafter as a Pedigreed QEF as discussed in the prior paragraph. With respect to a situation in
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which a Pedigreed QEF election is made, if we our company no longer qualifies as a PFIC in a subsequent year, normal Code rules and not the PFIC rules will apply.
If a U.S. Holder has not made a QEF Election at any time (a "Non-electing U.S. Holder"), then special taxation rules under Section 1291 of the Code will apply to (i) gains realized on the disposition (or deemed to be realized by reason of a pledge) of his common shares and (ii) certain "excess distributions", as specially defined, by our Company. An "excess distribution" is any current-year distribution in respect of PFIC stock that represents a rateable portion of the total distributions in respect of the stock during the year that exceed 125 percent of the average amount of distributions in respect of the stock during the three preceding years.
A Non-electing U.S. Holder generally would be required to pro-rate all gains realized on the disposition of his common shares and all excess distributions over the entire holding period for the common shares. All gains or excess distributions allocated to prior years of the U.S. Holder (other than years prior to our first taxable year during such U.S. Holder's holding period and beginning after January, 1987 for which it was a PFIC) would be taxed at the highest tax rate for each such prior year applicable to ordinary income. The Non-electing U.S. Holder also would be liable for interest on the deferred tax liability for each such prior year calculated as if such liability had been due with respect to each such prior year. A Non-electing U.S. Holder that is an individual is not allowed a deduction for interest on the deferred tax liability. The portions of gains and distributions that are not characterized as "excess distributions" are subject to tax in the current year under the normal tax rules of the Internal Revenue Code.
If we are, our company is a PFIC for any taxable year during which a Non-electing U.S. Holder holds common shares, then we will continue to be treated as a PFIC with respect to such common Shares, even if it is no longer by definition a PFIC. A Non-electing U.S. Holder may terminate this deemed PFIC status by electing to recognize gain (which will be taxed under the rules discussed above for Non-Electing U.S. Holders) as if such common shares had been sold on the last day of the last taxable year for which it was a PFIC.
Under Section 1291(f) of the Code, the Department of the Treasury has issued proposed regulations that would treat as taxable certain transfers of PFIC stock by Non-electing U.S. Holders that are generally not otherwise taxed, such as gifts, exchanges pursuant to corporate reorganizations, and transfers at death. If a U.S. Holder makes a QEF Election that is not a Pedigreed Election (i.e., it is made after the first year during which we are our company is a PFIC and the U.S. Holder holds our shares) (a "Unpedigreed Election"), the QEF rules apply prospectively but do not apply to years prior to the year in which the QEF first becomes effective. U.S. Holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the specific consequences of making a Non-Pedigreed QEF Election.
Certain special, generally adverse, rules will apply with respect to the common shares while our company is we are a PFIC whether or not it is treated as a QEF. For example under Section 1297(b)(6) of the Code (as in effect prior to the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997), a U.S. Holder who uses PFIC stock as security for a loan (including a margin loan) will, except as may be provided in regulations, be treated as having made a taxable disposition of such stock.
The foregoing discussion is based on currently effective provisions of the Code, existing and proposed regulations thereunder, and current administrative rulings and court decisions, all of which are subject to change. Any such change could affect the validity of this discussion. In addition, the implementation of certain aspects of the PFIC rules requires the issuance of regulations which in many instances have not been promulgated and which may have retroactive effect. There can be no assurance that any of these proposals will be enacted or promulgated, and if so, the form they will take or the effect that they may have on this discussion. Accordingly, and due to the complexity of the PFIC rules, U.S. Holders of the Registrant our common shares are strongly urged to consult their own tax advisors concerning the impact of these rules on their investment in our Company. For a discussion of the impact of the Taxpayer Relief
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Act of 1997 on a U.S. Holder of a PFIC, see "Mark-to-Market Election For PFIC Stock Under the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997" and "Elimination of Overlap Between Subpart F Rules and PFIC Provisions" below.
Mark-to-Market Election for PFIC Stock Under the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997
The Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 provides that a U.S. Holder of a PFIC may make a mark-to-market election with respect to the stock of the PFIC if such stock is marketable as defined below. This provision is designed to provide a current inclusion provision for persons that are Non-Electing Holders. Under the election, any excess of the fair market value of the PFIC stock at the close of the tax year over the Holder's adjusted basis in the stock is included in the Holder's income. The Holder may deduct any excess of the adjusted basis of the PFIC stock over its fair market value at the close of the tax year. However, deductions are limited to the net mark-to-market gains on the stock that the Holder included in income in prior tax years, or so called "unreversed inclusions". For purposes of the election, PFIC stock is marketable if it is regularly traded on (1) a national securities exchange that is registered with the SEC, (2) the national market system established under Section II A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or (3) an exchange or market that the IRS determines has rules sufficient to ensure that the market price represents legitimate and sound fair market value.
A Holder's adjusted basis of PFIC stock is increased by the income recognized under the mark-to-market election and decreased by the deductions allowed under the election. If a U.S. Holder owns PFIC stock indirectly through a foreign entity, the basis adjustments apply to the basis of the PFIC stock in the hands of the foreign entity for the purpose of applying the PFIC rules to the tax treatment of the U.S. owner. Similar basis adjustments are made to the basis of the property through which the U.S. persons hold the PFIC stock.
Income recognized under the mark-to-market election and gain on the sale of PFIC stock with respect to which an election is made is treated as ordinary income. Deductions allowed under the election and loss on the sale of PFIC with respect to which an election is made, to the extent that the amount of loss does not exceed the net mark-to-market gains previously included, are treated as ordinary losses. The U.S. or foreign source of any income or losses is determined as if the amount were a gain or loss from the sale of stock in the PFIC.
If PFIC stock is owned by a CFC (discussed below), the CFC is treated as a U.S. person that may make the mark-to-market election. Amounts includible in the CFC's income under the election are treated as foreign personal holding company income, and deductions are allocable to foreign personal holding company income.
The above provisions apply to tax years of U.S. persons beginning after December 31, 1997, and to tax years of foreign corporations ending with or within such tax years of U.S. persons.
The rules of Code Section 1291 applicable to non-qualified funds as discussed above generally do not apply to a U.S. Holder for tax years for which a mark-to-market election is in effect. If Code Section 1291 is applied and a mark-to-market election was in effect for any prior tax year, the U.S. Holder's holding period for the PFIC stock is treated as beginning immediately after the last tax year of the election. However, if a taxpayer makes a mark-to-market election for PFIC stock that is a non-qualified fund after the beginning of a taxpayer's holding period for such stock, a co-ordination rule applies to ensure that the taxpayer does not avoid the interest charge with respect to amounts attributable to periods before the election.
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Controlled Foreign Corporation Status
If more than 50% of the voting power of all classes of stock or the total value of the stock of our Company is owned, directly or indirectly, by U.S. Holders, each of whom own after applying rules of attribution 10% or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of our Company, we would be treated as a "controlled foreign corporation" or "CFC" under Subpart F of the Code. This classification would bring into effect many complex results including the required inclusion by such 10% U.S. Holders in income of their pro rata shares of "Subpart F income" (as defined by the Code) of our Company and our earnings invested in "U.S. property" (as defined by Section 956 of the Code). In addition, under Section 1248 of the Code if we are considered a CFC at any time during the five year period ending with the sale or exchange of its stockshares, gain from the sale or exchange of common shares of our Company by such a 10% U.S. Holder of our common stock at any time during the five year period ending with the sale or exchange is treated as ordinary dividend income to the extent of our earnings and profits attributable to the stock sold or exchanged. Because of the complexity of Subpart F, and because we may never be a CFC, a more detailed review of these rules is beyond of the scope of this discussion.
Elimination of Overlap Between Subpart F Rules and PFIC Provisions
Under the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997, a PFIC that is also a CFC will not be treated as a PFIC with respect to certain 10% U.S. Holders. For the exception to apply, (i) the corporation must be a CFC within the meaning of section 957(a) of the Code and (ii) the U.S. Holder must be subject to the current inclusion rules of Subpart F with respect to such corporation (i.e., the U.S. Holder is a "United States Shareholder," see "Controlled Foreign Corporation," above). The exception only applies to that portion of a U.S. Holder's holding period beginning after December 31, 1997. For that portion of a United States Holder before January 1, 1998, the ordinary PFIC and QEF rules continue to apply.
As a result of this new provision, if we were ever to become a CFC, U.S. Holders who are currently taxed on their pro rata shares of Subpart F income of a PFIC which is also a CFC will not be subject to the PFIC provisions with respect to the same stock if they have previously made a Pedigreed QEF Election. The PFIC provisions will however continue to apply to U.S Holders for any periods in which Subpart F does not apply (for example he is no longer a 10% Holder or we are no longer a CFC) and to U.S. Holders that did not make a Pedigreed QEF Election unless the U.S. Holder elects to recognize gain on the PFIC shares held in our Company as if those shares had been sold.
ALL PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS ARE ADVISED TO CONSULT THEIR OWN TAX ADVISORS WITH RESPECT TO THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSEQUENCES OF PURCHASING THE COMMON SHARES OF OUR COMPANY.
F. Dividends and Paying Agents
Not applicable.
G. Statements by Experts
Not applicable.
H. Documents on Display
Documents concerning our Company referred to in this annual report may be viewed during normal business hours at our office at 2100, 1177 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, V6E 2K3 by making an appointment.
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I. Subsidiary Information
As at the date of this annual report, we have five wholly-owned subsidiaries: (i) Minera Mexicana el Rosario, S.A. de C.V.; (ii) New Age Investments Inc.; (iii) Metalicos de Durango, S.A. de C.V.; (iv) Minera de Villa Seca, S.A. de C.V.; and (v) Exploraciones Mineras el Rosario, S.A. de C.V.
ITEM 11 Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
The significant market risks to which the Company is exposed are currency, interest rate and commodity price risk.
Currency risk
The operating results and financial position of the Company are reported in Canadian dollars. As the Company operates in an international environment, some of the Company’s financial instruments and transactions are denominated in currencies other than the Canadian dollar. The results of the Company’s operations are subject to currency transaction and translation risk.
The Company’s exploration, development, operating costs, and a significant portion of its administrative costs are in Mexico and are denominated in Mexican pesos or US dollars. Revenues from the sale of concentrates are denominated in US dollars. The fluctuation of the US dollar and Mexican peso in relation to the Canadian dollar will consequently impact the profitability of the Company and may also affect the value of the Company’s assets and the amount of shareholders’ equity.
Comparative foreign exchange rates as at December 31, 2008 are as follows:
December 31, | December 31, | |||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||
MXN Peso to CDN Dollar | 0.089 | 0.091 | ||||
US Dollar to CDN Dollar | 1.218 | 0.991 |
The Company has not entered into any agreements or purchased any foreign currency hedging arrangements to hedge possible currency risks at this time. Management believes the foreign exchange risk derived from currency conversions for the Mexican operations is not significant and therefore does not hedge its foreign exchange risk. Additionally, the US dollar trade accounts receivable are short term in nature and foreign currency risk exposure is minimal.
Interest rate risk
The Company’s policy is to invest cash in guaranteed investment certificates at fixed or floating rates of interest and cash equivalents are to be maintained in floating rates of interest in order to maintain liquidity, while achieving a satisfactory return for shareholders. Fluctuations in interest rates impact the value of cash and cash equivalents. The Company manages risk by monitoring changes in interest rates in comparison to prevailing market rates. As at December 31, 2008, the Company did not hold any guaranteed investment certificates.
For financial liabilities, the convertible loan notes and capital leases carry fixed interest rates of 8.0% and 9.6% per annum, respectively, and as such are not subject to fluctuations of interest rates.
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Commodity price risk
The value of the Company’s mineral resource properties depends on the price of silver, gold, lead and zinc and the outlook for these minerals. As at December 31, 2008, market prices were US$10.79/oz for silver, US$870/oz for gold, US$949/tonne for lead, and US$1,121/tonne for zinc.
Silver and gold, as well as lead and zinc prices have historically fluctuated widely and are affected by numerous factors outside of the Company’s control, including, but not limited to, market fluctuations, government regulations relating to prices, taxes, royalties, allowable production, import, exports and supply and demand, industrial and retail demand, forward sales by producers and speculators, levels of worldwide production, short-term changes in supply and demand because of speculative hedging activities, and certain other factors related specifically to silver and gold. The value of trade receivables depends on changes in metal prices over the quotational period.
The profitability of the Company’s operations is highly correlated to the market price of silver and gold. If metal prices decline for a prolonged period below the cost of production of the Company’s Topia and Guanajuato mines, it may not be economically feasible to continue production.
The Company has not entered into any hedging or other commodity based risk instruments.
Sensitivity analysis
Based on historic trends over the last twelve months, volatilities in the above-noted market risks, and management’s knowledge and experience in the financial markets, the Company believes the following movements are reasonably possible over a twelve-month period.
A parallel shift of +1%/-1% from the prevailing market interest rates on deposits as of December 31, 2008.
Proportional foreign exchange movement of -10% (depreciation of CAD) and +10% (appreciation of CAD) against the USD, from the December 31, 2008 CAD to USD exchange rate of 0.821.
Proportional foreign exchange movement of -10% (depreciation of CAD) and +10% (appreciation of CAD) against the Mexican peso, from the December 31, 2008 CAD to Mexican peso exchange rate of 11.296.
A parallel shift of +10%/-10% from the prevailing commodity prices of US$10.79/oz for silver, US$870/oz for gold, US$949/tonne for lead, and US$1,121/tonne for zinc as of December 31, 2008.
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If these movements were to occur, the impact on the consolidated net loss for each category of financial instrument held at the balance sheet date is presented below in thousands of dollars.
Interest Rate | Currency Rate | Commodity Price | |||||||||||||||||||
Risk | Risk | Risk | |||||||||||||||||||
-1% | +1% | -10% | +10% | -10% | +10% | ||||||||||||||||
Carrying | |||||||||||||||||||||
Amount | Income | Income | Income | Income | Income | Income | |||||||||||||||
($'000) | ($'000) | ($'000) | ($'000) | ($'000) | ($'000) | ($'000) | |||||||||||||||
Financial assets | |||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | |||||||||||||||||||||
CAD | 115 | (1 | ) | 1 | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||
USD | 114 | (1 | ) | 1 | 13 | (10 | ) | - | - | ||||||||||||
Pesos | 377 | (4 | ) | 4 | 42 | (34 | ) | - | - | ||||||||||||
Amounts receivable | |||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 337 | - | - | 37 | (31 | ) | (34 | ) | 34 | ||||||||||||
Pesos | 2,433 | - | - | 270 | (221 | ) | - | - | |||||||||||||
Financial liabilities | |||||||||||||||||||||
Accounts payable and accrued | |||||||||||||||||||||
liabilities | |||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 1,000 | - | - | (111 | ) | 91 | - | - | |||||||||||||
Pesos | 1,443 | - | - | (160 | ) | 131 | - | - | |||||||||||||
Capital lease obligation | |||||||||||||||||||||
USD | 893 | - | - | (99 | ) | 81 | - | - | |||||||||||||
Total Increase(Decrease) | (6 | ) | 6 | (8 | ) | 7 | (34 | ) | 34 |
ITEM 12 Description of Securities Other Than Equity Securities
A. Debt Securities
Not applicable.
B. Warrants and Rights
Not applicable.
C. Other Securities
Not applicable.
D. American Depository Shares
Not applicable.
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PART II
ITEM 13 Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies
Not applicable.
ITEM 14 Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds
Not applicable.
ITEM 15 Controls and Procedures
Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed under Canadian and U.S. securities regulations is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified and is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
An evaluation was carried out under the supervision of, and with the participation of, our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in the Exchange Act, as amended, Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) as of December 31, 2008. Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2008.
Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”).
Under the supervision and with the participation of our Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, as of December 31, 2008, based on the framework set forth in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on this evaluation, management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2008.
KPMG LLP (“KPMG”), an independent registered public accounting firm, who audited and reported on our consolidated financial statements, has issued an attestation report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008. The attestation report is included with the consolidated financial statements in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the period covered by the annual report, being the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting. The Company advises that it has taken steps to increase the efficiency of its internal controls to ensure continued accuracy and timeliness of the Company’s financial reporting.
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ITEM 16 Reserved
ITEM 16A Audit Committee Financial Expert
Our board of directors had determined that the past Chairman of the Company's Audit Committee, Mr. John T. Kopcheff BSc (Hons), SPE, AAPG, qualified as an "audit committee financial expert" as that term is defined in Item 16A(b) of Form 20-F.
On February 12, 2009, Mr. Martin Carsky was appointed as the new Chairman of the Audit Committee and Mr. Kopcheff stepped down. Mr. Carsky also qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert” and he holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, British Columbia and holds the designation of Chartered Accountant.
More information regarding Mr. Kopcheff’s and Mr. Carsky’s experience can be found in Item 6 A. Directors, Officers and Senior Management.
Mr. Kopcheff and Mr. Carsky both qualify as "independent" as the term is used in Section 803 of the AMEX Company Guide.
ITEM 16B Code of Ethics
Code of Ethics
Effective June 30, 2005 our Company's Board of Directors adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (the “Code”) that applies to, among other persons, our Company’s Chief Executive Officer, President, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer and Controller.
The Code was amended and updated on September 16, 2008, to describe the process to be taken if a manager or supervisor directs another employee to disregard Company policy or internal controls and designates the Business Ethics Officer as the main contact for reports of violations of the Code.
ITEM 16C Principal Accountant Fees and Services
Audit Fees
Our board of directors appointed KPMG LLP, Chartered Accountants, as independent auditors to audit our financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008. The aggregate fees billed by KPMG LLP, Chartered Accountants, for professional services rendered for the audit of our 2008 annual financial statements included in this annual report for the year ended December 31, 2008 were $270,000 compared to $391,555 for the year ended December 31, 2007. The aggregate fees billed by KPMG Mexico for professional services rendered for the Mexican statutory audits of our subsidiaries’ 2008 annual financial statements included in this annual report for the year ended December 31, 2008 were US$33,000 compared to US$38,000 for the year ended December 31, 2007.
Audit Related Fees
The aggregate fees billed for professional services by KPMG LLP, Chartered Accountants, that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of our financial statements and which are not reported under the caption "Audit Fees" above, were $nil for each of the years ended December 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007.
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Tax Fees
The aggregate fees billed for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning by KPMG LLP, Chartered Accountants, were $3,500 for the year ended December 31, 2008, compared to $3,300 for the year ended December 31, 2007. The aggregate fees billed for certification of the Company’s Value Added Tax receivable by KPMG Mexico was US$25,000.
All Other Fees
The aggregate fees billed by KPMG LLP, Chartered Accountants, for other non-audit professional services, other than those services listed above, were $31,451 for the year ended December 31, 2008 compared to $4,600 for the year ended December 31, 2007.
Effective May 6, 2003, the Securities and Exchange Commission adopted rules that require that before KPMG LLP, Chartered Accountants, is engaged by us or our subsidiaries to render any auditing or permitted non-audit related service, the engagement be:
- | Approved by our audit committee; or |
- | Entered into pursuant to pre-approval policies and procedures established by the audit committee, provided the policies and procedures are detailed as to the particular service, the audit committee is informed of each service, and such policies and procedures do not include delegation of the audit committee's responsibilities to management. |
The Audit Committee pre-approves all services provided by our independent auditors. All of the above services and fees were reviewed and pre-approved by the audit committee.
The Audit Committee has considered the nature and amount of the fees billed by KPMG LLP, Chartered Accountants, and believes that the provision of the services for activities unrelated to the audit is compatible with maintaining KPMG LLP, Chartered Accountants, independence.
ITEM 16D. Exemption from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees
Not Applicable.
ITEM 16E Purchases of Equity Securities of the Company and Affiliated Purchasers
Not Applicable.
ITEM 16F Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant
Not Applicable.
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PART III
ITEM 17 Financial Statements
Financial Statements Filed as Part of the Annual Report:
- | Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm dated March 11, 2009. |
- | Consolidated balance sheets for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007. |
- | Consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss and deficit for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2008, 2007, and 2006. |
- | Consolidated statements of cash flows for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2008, 2007, and 2006. |
- | Notes to consolidated financial statements |
ITEM 18 Financial Statements
Refer to Item 17 - Financial Statements.
ITEM 19 Exhibits
The following exhibits are being filed as part of this annual report, or are incorporated by reference where indicated:
1. | Articles of Incorporation and By-laws: |
1.1 | Continuation Application under theBusiness Corporation Act(British Columbia) (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on August 10, 2004). |
1.2 | Certificate of Continuation dated July 9, 2004 (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on August 10, 2004). |
1.3 | Notice of Articles (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on August 10, 2004). |
1.4 | Bylaws (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on August 10, 2004). |
2. | Instruments Defining Rights of Security Holders |
2.1 | Shareholder Rights Plan (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20- F, filed on August 10, 2004, amended March 7, 2008). |
3. | Material Contracts |
3.1 | Share Purchase Agreement dated December 9, 2003 with Robert A. Archer and Ing. Francisco Ramos Sánchez (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on August 10, 2004). |
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3.2 | Option Agreement dated February 11, 2004 between our subsidiary, Minera Mexicana el Rosario, S.A. de C.V. and Eduardo Rodriguez Chávez, acting in representation of Alfredo Rodriguez Chávez (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on August 10, 2004). |
3.3 | Agreement dated February 18, 2004 between our subsidiary, Minera Mexicana el Rosario, S.A. de C.V. and Cia. Minera des Canelas y Topia, S.A. de C.V., MET-MEX Peñoles, S.A. de C.V. and Minera Mexicana la Ciénega, S.A. de C.V. (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on August 10, 2004). |
3.4 | Agreement dated February 28, 2004 between our subsidiary, Minera Mexicana el Rosario, S.A. de C.V. and Carolos Teodoro Ortiz Rodriquez, Abelardo Garza Hernanadez and Minera San Miguel de los Tarros, S.A. de C.V. (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on August 10, 2004). |
3.5 | Letter of Intent dated January 19, 2005 with Minera Acero del Fuego, S.A. de C.V. (Virimoa Project) (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on July 15, 2005). |
3.6 | Letter of Intent dated January 4, 2005 between our Company and Compania Minera de Canelas y Topia, S.A. de C.V. |
3.7 | Purchase Agreement dated June 30, 2005 between our Company and Compania Minera de Canelas y Topia, S.A. de C.V. |
3.8 | Purchase Agreement dated October 25, 2005 between our Company and the Sociedad Coopertiva Minero Metalúrgics Santa Fe de Guanajuato. |
3.9 | Letter of Intent dated April 26, 2006 between our Company and Minera Apollo S.A. de C.V. |
3.10 | Letter of Intent dated December 7, 2006 between our Company and Altair Ventures Incorporated. |
3.11 | Option Agreement dated February 2, 2007 between our Company and Altair Ventures Incorporated (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on April 3, 2008). |
3.12* | |
4. | Subsidiaries |
4.1 | Minera Mexicana el Rosario, S.A. de C.V. (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on August 10, 2004). |
4.2 | New Age Investments Inc. (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on August 10, 2004). |
4.3 | Metalicos de Durango, S.A. de C.V. |
4.4 | Minera de Villa Seca, S.A. de C.V. |
4.5 | Exploraciones Mineras el Rosario, S.A. de C.V. |
5. | Code of Ethics |
5.1 | Code of Ethics (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on July 15, 2005, updated August 2007 and September 2008). |
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6. | 302 Certification |
12.1* | Section 302 Certification under Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 for Robert A. Archer. |
12.2* | Section 302 Certification under Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 for Raakel S. Iskanius. |
7. | 906 Certification |
13.1* | Section 906 Certification under Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 for Robert A. Archer. |
13.2* | Section 906 Certification under Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 for Raakel S. Iskanius. |
8. | Additional Exhibits |
8.1 | Summary Report on the San Antonio Gold Prospect dated November 2003 (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on August 10, 2004). |
8.2 | Summary Report on the Topia Project dated November 20, 2003 (incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F, filed on August 10, 2004). |
8.3 | Map of Topia Property |
8.4 | Map of Guanajuato Property |
8.5 | Map of Mapimi Property |
* | Filed herewith. |
_________________________________________________
i This definition was obtained from the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum, and was adopted August 20, 2000.
ii This definition was obtained from the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum, and was adopted August 20, 2000
iiiOctober 12, 2006 press release.
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SIGNATURES
The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.
Great Panther Resources Limited
(Registrant)
/s/ Robert A. Archer
Robert A. Archer
President and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Raakel S. Iskanius
Raakel S. Iskanius
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)
Date: March 19, 2009
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31, 2008 and 2007
Expressed in Canadian Dollars
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED
MANAGEMENT’S STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR FINANCIAL REPORTING
The management of Great Panther Resources Limited is responsible for the presentation and preparation of the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Great Panther Resources Limited and all related financial information contained in this Annual Report, including Management’s Discussion and Analysis.
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles. They include certain amounts that are based on estimates and judgments of management. Financial information presented elsewhere in the Annual Report is consistent with that contained in the consolidated financial statements.
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, management has a process in place to evaluate internal control over financial reporting based on the criteria established by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) inInternal Control-Integrated Framework. We, as Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, will certify our annual filings with the CSA and SEC as required in Canada by National Instrument 52-109 and in the United States as required by the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
The Company’s Audit Committee is appointed by the Board of Directors annually and is comprised of three independent directors. The Audit Committee meets quarterly to review the Company’s consolidated financial statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis, and on an annual basis, the independent auditors’ report. The Audit Committee recommends to the Board of Directors the external auditors to be appointed by the shareholders at each annual meeting and reviews the independence and effectiveness of their work. The independent auditors have unrestricted access to the Company, the Audit Committee, and the Board of Directors.
MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”).
Under the supervision and with the participation of our Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, as of December 31, 2008, based on the framework set forth inInternal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on this evaluation, management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2008.
KPMG LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has audited the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, as stated in their report which appears herein.
“Robert A. Archer” | “Raakel S. Iskanius” |
Chief Executive Officer | Chief Financial Officer |
March 11, 2009 | March 11, 2009 |
KPMG LLP | Telephone | (604) 691-3000 | |
Chartered Accountants | Fax | (604) 691-3031 | |
PO Box 10426 777 Dunsmuir Street | Internet | www.kpmg.ca | |
Vancouver BC V7Y 1K3 | |||
Canada |
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC
ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of Great Panther Resources Limited
We have audited Great Panther Resources Limited’s (the “Company") internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on the criteria established inInternal Control—Integrated Frameworkissued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on the criteria established inInternal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2008 and 2007 and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss, deficit and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2008 and our report dated March 11, 2009 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.
/s/ KPMG LLP
Chartered Accountants
Vancouver, Canada
March 11, 2009
KPMG LLP, a Canadian limited liability partnership is the Canadian
member firm of KPMG International, a Swiss cooperative.
KPMG LLP | Telephone | (604) 691-3000 | |
Chartered Accountants | Fax | (604) 691-3031 | |
PO Box 10426 777 Dunsmuir Street | Internet | www.kpmg.ca | |
Vancouver BC V7Y 1K3 | |||
Canada |
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC
ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors of Great Panther Resources Limited
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Great Panther Resources Limited (the “Company") as of December 31, 2008 and 2007 and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss, deficit and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2008. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. We also conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2008 and 2007 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2008 in conformity with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles.
Canadian generally accepted accounting principles vary in certain significant respects from US generally accepted accounting principles. Information relating to the nature and effect of such differences is presented in Note 20 to the consolidated financial statements.
As discussed in Note 2(a), the consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006 have been restated.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated March 11, 2009 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
/s/ KPMG LLP
Chartered Accountants
Vancouver, Canada
March 11, 2009
KPMG LLP, a Canadian limited liability partnership is the Canadian
member firm of KPMG International, a Swiss cooperative.
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
December 31, 2008 and 2007 |
2008 | 2007 | |||||
Assets | ||||||
Current assets: | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 606,244 | $ | 5,357,977 | ||
Marketable securities | 6,435 | 39,795 | ||||
Amounts receivable (note 5) | 2,806,432 | 5,879,243 | ||||
Income taxes recoverable | 431,523 | 363,220 | ||||
Inventories (note 6) | 945,506 | 748,473 | ||||
Prepaid expenses, deposits and advances | 495,287 | 576,589 | ||||
5,291,427 | 12,965,297 | |||||
Mineral properties, plant and equipment (note 7) | 16,087,761 | 18,087,813 | ||||
$ | 21,379,188 | $ | 31,053,110 | |||
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity | ||||||
Current liabilities: | ||||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | $ | 3,534,842 | $ | 2,216,730 | ||
Current portion of capital lease obligation (note 18(e)) | 436,498 | - | ||||
Current portion of long-term debt (note 9(a)) | - | 88,625 | ||||
3,971,340 | 2,305,355 | |||||
Long-term liabilities: | ||||||
Capital lease obligation (note 18(e)) | 456,788 | - | ||||
Convertible loan notes (note 9(b)) | 4,651,690 | 4,028,611 | ||||
Asset retirement obligations (note 10) | 1,104,877 | 1,101,171 | ||||
Future income tax liability (note 16) | 1,901,614 | 2,421,504 | ||||
12,086,309 | 9,856,641 | |||||
Shareholders’ equity: | ||||||
Capital stock (note 11(b)) | 57,865,462 | 56,988,447 | ||||
Contributed surplus (note 11(c)) | 7,724,900 | 6,261,116 | ||||
Equity component of convertible note (note 9(b)) | 2,569,000 | 2,569,000 | ||||
Advances on share subscriptions (note 11(f)) | 85,000 | - | ||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (note 12) | (37,592 | ) | 5,945 | |||
Deficit | (58,913,891 | ) | (44,628,039 | ) | ||
9,292,879 | 21,196,469 | |||||
Nature of operations and going concern (note 1) | ||||||
Commitments and contingencies (notes 9, 10, and 18) | ||||||
Subsequent events (note 19) | ||||||
$ | 21,379,188 | $ | 31,053,110 |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
Approved on behalf of the Board:
“Martin Carsky” | Director | “Kaare G. Foy” | Director |
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006
2008 | 2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Restated | Restated | ||||||||
Note 2(a) | Note 2(a) | ||||||||
Revenues: | |||||||||
Mineral sales | $ | 22,445,438 | $ | 15,523,094 | $ | 6,333,034 | |||
Cost of sales (excluding amortization | |||||||||
and depletion) | 18,144,223 | 14,152,657 | 6,382,639 | ||||||
4,301,215 | 1,370,437 | (49,605 | ) | ||||||
Expenses: | |||||||||
Amortization and depletion of mineral | |||||||||
properties, plant and equipment | 4,285,029 | 3,603,668 | 1,421,769 | ||||||
Accretion on asset retirement obligation | 281,677 | 22,704 | - | ||||||
Mineral property exploration expenditures (note 8) | 6,327,926 | 6,803,104 | 3,968,083 | ||||||
General and administrative | 5,965,595 | 4,672,362 | 4,408,631 | ||||||
Stock-based compensation (note 11(d)) | 1,608,271 | 1,129,500 | 4,672,774 | ||||||
18,468,498 | 16,231,338 | 14,471,257 | |||||||
(14,167,283 | ) | (14,860,901 | ) | (14,520,862 | ) | ||||
Other income (expenses): | |||||||||
Interest income | 240,929 | 207,892 | 366,319 | ||||||
Interest expense | (1,155,197 | ) | (1,035,577 | ) | (830,236 | ) | |||
Foreign exchange gain (loss) | 113,042 | (1,440,802 | ) | 10,358 | |||||
Gain on disposal of fixed assets | 31,168 | - | - | ||||||
(770,058 | ) | (2,268,487 | ) | (453,559 | ) | ||||
Loss before provision for income taxes | (14,937,341 | ) | (17,129,388 | ) | (14,974,421 | ) | |||
Provision for income taxes (note 16) | 651,489 | (2,571,473 | ) | (110,016 | ) | ||||
Loss for the year | (14,285,852 | ) | (19,700,861 | ) | (15,084,437 | ) | |||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: | |||||||||
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities | (43,537 | ) | 5,945 | - | |||||
Comprehensive loss for the year | $ | (14,329,389 | ) | $ | (19,694,916 | ) | $ | (15,084,437 | ) |
Diluted and basic loss per share (note 2(o)) | $ | (0.18 | ) | $ | (0.27 | ) | $ | (0.25 | ) |
Weighted average number of common | |||||||||
shares outstanding | 81,321,733 | 72,227,455 | 59,720,424 |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
2
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF DEFICIT
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006
2008 | 2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Deficit, beginning of year | $ | (44,628,039 | ) | $ | (24,927,178 | ) | $ | (9,842,741 | ) |
Loss for the year | (14,285,852 | ) | (19,700,861 | ) | (15,084,437 | ) | |||
Deficit, end of year | $ | (58,913,891 | ) | $ | (44,628,039 | ) | $ | (24,927,178 | ) |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
3
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006
2008 | 2007 | 2006 | |
Cash flows used in operating activities: | |||
Loss for the year | $ (14,285,852) | $ (19,700,861) | $ (15,084,437) |
Items not involving cash: | |||
Amortization and depletion of mineral | |||
properties, plant and equipment | 4,285,029 | 3,603,668 | 1,421,769 |
Foreign exchange loss (gain) on debt | 5,119 | (778) | (12,395) |
Foreign exchange loss (gain) on capital | |||
lease obligation | 128,493 | - | - |
Stock-based compensation | 1,608,271 | 1,129,500 | 4,672,774 |
Shares issued for mineral exploration | |||
expenditures | 191,568 | 246,000 | 613,000 |
Future income tax | (519,890) | 2,421,504 | (17,459) |
Interest accretion on debt discount | 11,154 | 259,355 | 378,363 |
Interest accretion on convertible note payable | 623,079 | 377,812 | 149,799 |
Interest on capital lease obligation | 24,438 | - | - |
Accretion on asset retirement obligations | 281,677 | 22,704 | - |
Write-down of inventory | 240,810 | - | - |
Gain on disposal of capital assets | (31,168) | - | - |
Changes in non-cash operating working capital: | |||
Amounts receivable | 3,209,104 | (1,758,659) | (3,119,463) |
Inventories | (357,566) | (143,346) | (605,127) |
Prepaid expenses and deposits | 371,085 | 245,025 | (637,702) |
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 1,028,329 | 1,304,802 | 680,062 |
Income taxes | (68,303) | (490,695) | 127,475 |
Net cash used in operating activities | (3,254,623) | (12,483,969) | (11,433,341) |
Cash flows used in investing activities: | |||
Marketable securities | (10,177) | (33,850) | - |
Mineral properties and capital expenditures | (1,927,624) | (3,328,413) | (5,736,570) |
Proceeds from disposal of capital assets | 100,614 | - | - |
Net cash used in investing activities | (1,837,187) | (3,362,263) | (5,736,570) |
Cash flows from financing activities: | |||
Repayment of long-term debt | (104,898) | (1,456,893) | (4,897,504) |
Repayment of capital lease obligation | (180,985) | - | - |
Proceeds from advances on share subscriptions | 85,000 | - | - |
Proceeds from exercise of warrants | 142,710 | 8,725,054 | 9,224,170 |
Proceeds from exercise of options | 398,250 | 678,000 | 869,257 |
Proceeds from issuance of convertible notes | - | 4,050,000 | 2,020,000 |
Issuance of shares for cash, net of issue costs | - | - | 13,866,639 |
Net cash from financing activities | 340,077 | 11,996,161 | 21,082,562 |
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents | (4,751,733) | (3,850,071) | 3,912,651 |
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year | 5,357,977 | 9,208,048 | 5,295,397 |
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year | $ 606,244 | $ 5,357,977 | $ 9,208,048 |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
4
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006
2008 | 2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Supplementary cash flow information: | |||||||||
Income taxes received | $ | 63,296 | $ | - | $ | - | |||
Income taxes paid | - | 640,664 | - | ||||||
Interest expense paid | 496,526 | 330,517 | 121,200 | ||||||
Interest income received | 250,317 | 198,504 | 302,074 | ||||||
Non-cash financing and investing transactions: | |||||||||
Mineral property adjustment from changes in | |||||||||
asset retirement obligation | (277,971 | ) | 986,182 | 92,285 | |||||
Assumption of capital lease obligation | |||||||||
on purchase of equipment | 785,047 | - | - | ||||||
Value added tax on capital lease obligation | 136,293 | - | - | ||||||
Warrants and options issued for financing fee | - | - | 251,500 | ||||||
Assumption of debt on purchase of mining | - | - | 231,260 | ||||||
concession | |||||||||
Shares issued and funds received in prior years | - | - | 49,910 | ||||||
Issuance of shares pursuant to mineral property | 191,568 | 246,000 | 613,000 | ||||||
option agreements |
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
5
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
1. | Nature of operations and going concern: | |
Great Panther Resources Limited (“the Company”) was continued under the Business Corporations Act (Yukon) on March 22, 1996 and continued under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) on July 9, 2004. On October 2, 2003, the Company changed its name from Great Panther Inc. to Great Panther Resources Limited and the common shares were consolidated whereby ten common shares were exchanged for one new common share. | ||
The Company is in the business of acquisition, development and exploration, and operation of mineral properties and mines in Mexico. Of the properties in which the Company has an interest, the Topia and Guanajuato mines were in production at the balance sheet dates. The Company’s other mineral property interests are in the exploration stage and it has not yet been determined as to whether these properties contain ore reserves that are economically viable. Costs associated with these exploration stage properties have been expensed. | ||
These financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which assumes the realization of assets and liquidation of liabilities in the normal course of business. During the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, the Company recorded losses of approximately $14,286,000 and $19,701,000 respectively, and used cash in operations of approximately $3,255,000 and $12,484,000, respectively. As at December 31, 2008, the Company had an accumulated deficit of approximately $58,914,000 and a working capital balance of $1,320,000. These conditions raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. | ||
In response to these conditions, management has undertaken a plan to significantly reduce costs through a series of actions including, but not limited to, reducing exploration activities, reducing capital expenditures, obtaining more favourable smelter terms with a new customer, reducing its staff levels, and considering other financing alternatives for its operations. Subsequent to year end, the Company raised additional equity (note 19(a)). | ||
The Company’s ability to continue on as a going concern is dependent on the achievement of profitable operations, the existence of economically recoverable mineral reserves and the ability to raise adequate financing from lenders, shareholders and other investors to support its business activities. Given the current economic environment, there can be no assurance that such financing will be available to the Company on acceptable terms, or at all. Failure to continue as a going concern would require the Company’s assets and liabilities to be presented on a liquidation basis, which would differ materially from the going concern basis. | ||
2. | Significant accounting policies: | |
(a) | Restatement: | |
The Company’s consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006 have been restated to reduce revenue to reflect the proceeds from the sale of concentrates, net of treatment and refining fees charged by counter parties, as the Company assumes no risk or obligation for treatment and refining services under its sales arrangements. The Company previously recorded treatment and refining fees as a cost of sales. |
6
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
The effect of the restatement is a decrease in cost of sales (excluding amortization and depletion) and a decrease in revenues for the year ended December 31, 2007 by $1,963,976 (2006 - $736,408). This restatement has no impact on the reported loss and loss per share for each of the years.
2007 | 2006 | ||||
As originally | As originally | ||||
reported | As restated | reported | As restated | ||
Mineral sales | $17,487,070 | $15,523,094 | $7,069,442 | $6,333,034 | |
Cost of sales (excluding amortization | |||||
and depletion) | $16,116,633 | $14,152,657 | $7,119,047 | $6,382,639 |
(b) | Basis of presentation: | |
These consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, New Age Investments Inc., Minera Mexicana el Rosario, S.A. de C.V., Metalicos de Durango, S.A. de C.V., Minera de Villa Seca, S.A. de C.V., and Exploraciones Mineras el Rosario, S.A. de C.V. Significant inter-company balances and transactions are eliminated on consolidation. | ||
These consolidated financial statements have been prepared by management in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles. The significant measurement differences between those principles and requirements promulgated by the Financial Accounting Standards Board and the Securities and Exchange Commission (collectively US GAAP), as they affect the Company, are disclosed in note 20. | ||
(c) | Use of estimates: | |
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions which affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant areas requiring the use of management estimates relate to the assessment for impairment and useful life of mineral properties, plant and equipment, site restoration costs, valuation of amounts receivable and future income tax assets, assumptions used in determining the fair value of non-cash stock-based compensation, the fair value of the equity component of convertible loan notes and the fair values assigned to the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed on acquisition. Due to the inherent uncertainty involved with making such estimates, actual results reported in future years could differ from these estimates. | ||
(d) | Cash and cash equivalents: | |
Cash and cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash. Short term investments have maturity dates of three months or less from the date of purchase, or they are redeemable prior to maturity. | ||
(e) | Marketable securities: | |
Marketable securities are recorded at fair value based on quoted market prices. | ||
(f) | Inventories: | |
Inventories consist of ore stockpiles and concentrate inventories which are valued at the lower of weighted average cost and net realizable value. Costs include all direct production costs and fixed overhead. |
7
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
Materials and supplies inventory, which includes the cost of consumables used in operations such as fuel, grinding media, chemicals and spare parts, are stated at the lower of average cost and replacement cost. Major spare parts and standby equipment are included in property, plant, and equipment when they are expected to be used during more than one period or if they can only be used in connection with an item of property, plant, and equipment. | ||
(g) | Mineral properties, plant and equipment: | |
The Company’s policy is to expense, as incurred, exploration expenditures, periodic option payments related to mineral properties and administrative and land use costs incurred prior to commercial feasibility of mining operations being established. Mineral property acquisition costs are capitalized. | ||
Mineral property acquisition costs include cash consideration and the fair value of common shares issued for mineral property interests, pursuant to the terms of the relevant agreement. Costs related to the acquisition of property and mineral rights, equipment, construction of production facilities and the development and betterment of mine infrastructure and equipment are capitalized. Costs of permitting, evaluation and feasibility are capitalized upon completion of an analysis which demonstrates the economic viability of the mineral deposit. Mineral property sales proceeds or option payments received for exploration rights are treated as cost recoveries. | ||
Once commercial production has commenced, production facilities and equipment are depreciated using the units-of-production method, if sufficient reserve information is available or the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives, not to exceed the life of the mine to which the assets relate. As at December 31, 2008, the Company did not have a reliable estimate of reserves and therefore did not use the units-of-production method. Effective October 1, 2008, the remaining life of the Topia mine was extended from 2 years to 7 years. Effective December 31, 2008, the remaining life of the Guanajuato mine was extended from 2 years to 3 years. Management’s estimate of expected remaining mine life is based upon available internal and external estimated resource information, historical production and recovery levels, planned future production and recovery levels, and other factors. Changes in mine life are recognized prospectively. | ||
Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred. When assets are retired or sold, the costs and related accumulated depreciation are eliminated from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in operations. | ||
Capital assets held at the parent company are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation, calculated using the following basis: |
Computer equipment | 30% declining balance | |
Furniture and fixtures | 20% declining balance | |
Office equipment | 20% declining balance | |
Leasehold improvements | straight-line over the term of the lease |
(h) | Impairment of long-lived assets: | |
The Company reviews and evaluates its long-lived assets, including mineral properties, plant and equipment, for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to its estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. Estimated cash flows include assumptions about long-term silver, gold, lead and zinc prices, future production levels, and future operating, capital and reclamation costs. If |
8
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
carrying value exceeds estimated discounted future cash flows, an impairment loss is recognized based on the excess of carrying value over the estimated fair value of the asset. | ||
Management's estimates are subject to risks and uncertainties of changes affecting the recoverability of the Company's investment in its mineral property, plant, equipment and mine development. Management's estimates of these factors are based on current conditions. Nonetheless, it is reasonably possible that in the near term, changes that could adversely affect management's estimate of net cash flows expected to be generated from its properties could occur, which may necessitate a write-down for asset impairment. | ||
(i) | Stock-based compensation: | |
The Company accounts for stock-based payments granted to non-employees after January 1, 2002 and employees after January 1, 2003 using the fair value-based method. Under the fair value-based method, compensation cost is measured at the fair value as the awards are earned and services performed and charged to operations over the service period which normally is the period during which the options vest. | ||
(j) | Revenue recognition: | |
The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of concentrates based on market metal prices and mineral content when title to the concentrates transfers to the customer, which generally occurs on the date the shipment is received. Revenue is recorded in the consolidated statement of operations net of treatment and refining costs paid to counter parties under terms of the off take arrangements. Revenue from the sale of the concentrates is subject to adjustment upon final settlement based upon metal prices, weights and assays. For each reporting period until final settlement, estimates of metal prices are used to record sales using forward metal prices based upon the expected final settlement date. Variations between the sales price recorded at the shipment date and the actual final sales price at the settlement date caused by changes in market metal prices results in an embedded derivative in the related accounts receivable balance. The embedded derivative is recorded at fair value each period until final settlement occurs with changes in fair value classified as a component of revenue. | ||
(k) | Asset retirement obligations: | |
The Company's mining and exploration activities are subject to various laws and regulations governing the protection of the environment. The Company recognizes the fair value of future reclamation and remediation as a liability in the period in which it incurs a legal obligation associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets that results from the acquisition, construction, development, and/or normal use of the asset, if a reasonable estimate of fair value can be made. The liability is measured initially at fair value and the resulting cost capitalized to the carrying value of the related assets. In subsequent periods, the liability is adjusted for accretion of the discount and any change in the amount or timing of the underlying cash flows. The asset retirement cost is depreciated over the remaining life of the assets. | ||
It is reasonably possible that the ultimate cost of remediation and reclamation could change in the future due to uncertainties associated with defining the nature and extent of environmental contamination, the application of laws and regulations by regulatory authorities and changes in remediation technology. The Company continually reviews its asset retirement obligations as evidence becomes available indicating that its remediation and reclamation liabilities may have changed. Any such changes in costs could materially impact the future amounts charged to operations for reclamation and remediation obligations. |
9
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
(l) | Financial instruments: | ||
The Company’s financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, amounts receivable, income taxes recoverable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, long-term debt and convertible loan notes. These financial instruments are classified as either held-for-trading, available- for-sale, held-to-maturity, loans and receivables or other financial liabilities. | |||
Held-for-trading financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents and are initially and subsequently recorded at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses related to revaluations are recorded in net income for the period. A financial asset is classified in this category if acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the short term. | |||
Transaction costs are expensed as incurred for financial instruments designated as held-for-trading. The effective interest rate method of amortization is used for any transaction costs for financial instruments measured at amortized cost, which includes loans and receivables and other financial liabilities. Available-for-sale financial assets include marketable securities and are initially and subsequently recorded at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses resulting from revaluation are included in other comprehensive income. When the assets are sold or an impairment write down is required, the accumulated fair value adjustments recognized in equity are included in the income statement. Financial assets that are non-derivatives and not classified in any of the other categories are classified as available- for-sale. Categories of regular way purchases and sales of financial assets are accounted for at the settlement date. | |||
Loans and receivables include amounts receivable and income taxes recoverable, and are initially measured at fair value and subsequently measured at amortized cost. Gains and losses resulting from revaluations, impairment write-downs and foreign exchange translation adjustments are recognized in net earnings for the period. Financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market are classified in this category. | |||
Other financial liabilities include accounts payable, accrued liabilities, long-term debt and convertible loan notes. Other financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value and subsequent periodical revaluations are recorded at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. Gains and losses resulting from revaluation and foreign exchange translation adjustments are recognized in net earnings for the period. The conversion feature of the convertible loan notes are recorded at fair value using a Black-Scholes valuation model upon issue of the note. The fair value of the conversion feature is recorded as an equity component of the note financing, reducing the amount assigned to the debt component. The debt component is accreted to its fair value until extinguished on conversion or maturity. | |||
The Company assesses at each balance sheet date whether there is objective evidence that a financial asset or a group of financial assets is impaired using the following criteria: | |||
For available-for-sale financial assets, the cumulative loss measured as the difference between the acquisition cost and the current fair value, less any impairment loss on that financial asset previously recognized in profit or loss, is removed from equity and recognized in the income statement. Impairment losses recognized in the income statement are not reversed through the income statement. | |||
For loans and receivables, a provision for impairment is established when there is objective evidence that the Company will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original |
10
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
terms of the receivables. Significant financial difficulties of the debtor or delinquency in payments are considered indicators that a trade receivable is impaired. The amount of the provision is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the original effective interest rate. The carrying amount of the asset is reduced through the use of an allowance account and the amount of the loss is recognized in the income statement within general and administrative expenses. When a trade receivable is uncollectible, it is written off against the allowance account for trade receivables. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against general and administrative expenses in the income statement.
(m) | Foreign currency translation: | |
The functional currency of the Company and its subsidiaries is the Canadian dollar. | ||
Monetary items denominated in a foreign currency are translated to Canadian dollars at exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date and non-monetary items are translated at rates of exchange in effect when the assets were acquired or obligations incurred. Revenues and expenses are translated at rates in effect at the time of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses are included in income. | ||
(n) | Income taxes: | |
The Company uses the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, future income tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between the financial statement carrying values of existing assets and liabilities and their respective income tax bases (temporary differences), and tax loss carry forwards. Future income tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted or substantively enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when the temporary differences are likely to be recovered or settled. The effect on future income tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is included in operations in the period in which the change is substantively enacted. The amount of future income tax assets recognized is limited to the amount that is, in management’s estimation, more likely than not to be realized. | ||
(o) | Loss per share: | |
Basic loss per share is computed by dividing net loss by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted loss per share is computed similar to basic loss per share except that the weighted average shares outstanding are increased to include additional shares from the assumed exercise of stock options and warrants, if dilutive. The number of additional shares is calculated by assuming that outstanding stock options or warrants were exercised and that the proceeds from such exercises were used to acquire shares of common stock at the average market price during the reporting period. Diluted loss per share is the same as basic loss per share because the effect on the basic loss per share of outstanding options and warrants is anti-dilutive. | ||
(p) | Comparative figures: | |
Certain comparative figures have been reclassified to conform with current year presentation. |
11
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
3. | Adoption of new accounting standards: | |
Effective January 1, 2008, the Company adopted the following new accounting standards issued by the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (“CICA”): | ||
(a) | Capital Disclosures: | |
Section 1535,Capital Disclosures, requires additional disclosures about the Company’s capital and how it is managed. The additional disclosure includes quantitative and qualitative information regarding the Company’s objectives, policies and processes for managing capital. The new disclosures are provided in Note 13. | ||
(b) | Financial Instruments – Disclosure and Presentation: | |
Section 3862,Financial Instruments – Disclosures, and Section 3863,Financial Instruments – Presentation, replace Section 3861,Financial Instruments – Disclosure and Presentation, requiring disclosures of both qualitative and quantitative information on the nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments to which the Company is exposed and how it manages those risks. The new disclosures are provided in Notes 14 and 15. | ||
(c) | Inventories: | |
Effective January 1, 2008, the Company adopted Section 3031,Inventories, which replaces Section 3030. The new standard provides guidance on the determination of costs and its subsequent recognition as an expense, including any write-down to net realizable value. The Section also provides guidance on the cost formulas that are used to assign costs to inventories. | ||
The adoption of this new standard had no significant impact on the consolidated financial statements. | ||
4. | Recent accounting pronouncements: | |
(a) | Goodwill and Intangible Assets: | |
Section 3064,Goodwill and Intangible Assets, establishes revised standards for recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure of goodwill and intangible assets. The standard is effective for interim and annual financial statements beginning January 1, 2009. The Company does not expect the adoption of this Section to have a significant effect on its financial statements. | ||
(b) | International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”): | |
In 2006, the Canadian Accounting Standards Board ("AcSB") published a new strategic plan that will significantly affect financial reporting requirements for Canadian companies. The AcSB strategic plan outlines the convergence of Canadian GAAP with IFRS over an expected five year transitional period. In February 2008, the AcSB announced that 2011 is the changeover date for publicly-listed companies to use IFRS, replacing Canada's own GAAP. The transition date is for interim and annual financial statements relating to fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2011. The transition date of January 1, 2011 will require the restatement for comparative purposes of amounts reported by the Company for the year ended December 31, 2010 and restatement of the opening balance sheet as at January 1, 2010. The Company is developing an IFRS conversion plan and has completed a preliminary assessment which prioritizes how each IFRS standard will impact the financial statements. The Company anticipates there will be changes in accounting policies and these changes may materially impact our financial statements but the impact cannot be reasonably estimated at this time. |
12
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
5. | Amounts receivable: |
2008 | 2007 | ||||||
Trade accounts receivable | $ | 1,693,512 | $ | 2,515,477 | |||
Value added tax recoverable | 1,292,264 | 3,037,482 | |||||
Other | 123,782 | 436,284 | |||||
3,109,558 | 5,989,243 | ||||||
Allowance for doubtful amounts | (303,126 | ) | (110,000 | ) | |||
$ | 2,806,432 | $ | 5,879,243 |
The Company, through its Mexican subsidiaries, pays value added tax on the purchase and sale of goods and services at a rate of 15%. The net amount paid or payable is recoverable, but such recovery is subject to review and assessment by local tax authorities.
6. | Inventories: |
2008 | 2007 | ||||||
Finished product | $ | 506,383 | $ | 311,357 | |||
Ore stockpile | 7,026 | 29,319 | |||||
Materials and supplies | 672,907 | 407,797 | |||||
1,186,316 | 748,473 | ||||||
Write-down of finished product to net realizable value | (240,810 | ) | - | ||||
$ | 945,506 | $ | 748,473 |
The amount of inventory recognized as an expense for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 is represented by the amount of cost of sales.
13
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
7. | Mineral properties, plant and equipment: |
The major components of the Company's mineral properties, plant and equipment are as follows: |
December 31, | December 31, | ||||||
2008 | 2007 | ||||||
Topia Mine : | |||||||
Mineral properties | $ | 2,731,978 | $ | 2,167,106 | |||
Plant and equipment | 5,847,432 | 5,660,608 | |||||
Buildings and mobile equipment | 395,716 | 393,346 | |||||
Asset retirement obligations (note 10) | 231,439 | 546,254 | |||||
9,206,565 | 8,767,314 | ||||||
Accumulated depreciation and depletion | (3,838,616 | ) | (2,177,831 | ) | |||
5,367,949 | 6,589,483 | ||||||
Guanajuato Mines: | |||||||
Mineral properties | 4,130,020 | 3,978,063 | |||||
Plant and equipment | 6,504,682 | 4,828,025 | |||||
Buildings and mobile equipment | 1,711,403 | 1,752,370 | |||||
Land | 2,844,889 | 2,844,889 | |||||
Asset retirement obligations (note 10) | 569,057 | 532,213 | |||||
15,760,051 | 13,935,560 | ||||||
Accumulated depreciation and depletion | (5,333,231 | ) | (2,753,990 | ) | |||
10,426,820 | 11,181,570 | ||||||
Santo Nino | 68,542 | 68,542 | |||||
Leasehold improvements and other equipment, net of | |||||||
accumulated depreciation of $208,299 (2007 - | |||||||
$123,957) | 224,450 | 248,218 | |||||
$ | 16,087,761 | $ | 18,087,813 |
(a) | Topia Mine: | |
On June 30, 2005, the Company purchased 100% of the ownership rights in and to all the fixed assets, machinery, equipment and Topia Mining Concessions pursuant to the Topia Purchase Agreement located in the Municipality of Topia, State of Durango, Mexico. | ||
(b) | Guanajuato Mine: | |
On October 25, 2005, the Company purchased a 100% ownership interest in a group of producing silver- gold mines in Guanajuato, Mexico which includes 2 main properties, a plant, workshops and administration facilities, mining infrastructure, equipment, and certain surface rights (real estate). | ||
(c) | Arcoiris Concession: | |
On March 8, 2006, the Company purchased a 100% interest in the Arcoiris concession. The Arcoiris concession is a strategic claim that is contiguous with the existing Topia Mine Property. The 100 hectare concession contains portions of the strike extension and down-dip projection of the Dos Amigos Vein that the Company has already started developing on its Topia Mine Property. |
14
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
(d) | Fundiciones Property: | |
On May 15, 2006, the Company purchased a 100% interest in the Fundiciones property. The additional 3.88 hectares of real estate is adjacent to the existing plant at Guanajuato and the purchase will facilitate any future expansion of the plant facilities. |
The carrying values of the mineral properties, plant and equipment related to the Topia mine and the Guanajuato mine were $5,367,949 and $10,426,820, respectively, at December 31, 2008. The Company has determined that no impairment write-down was required at December 31, 2008 for the Topia and Guanajuato mining properties. This conclusion is based on estimates of undiscounted future cash flows for these mines which include assumptions about long-term silver, gold, lead and zinc prices, future production levels, and future operating, capital and reclamation costs. Future changes in the assumptions used for impairment testing may result in material changes in asset carrying values.
8. | Mineral property exploration expenditures: |
The continuity of expenditures on mineral properties for the year ended December 31, 2008 is as follows: |
San | Santo | San | Topia | Topia | |||||||
Antonio | Nino | Taco | Main Block | II to IV Guanajuato | Virimoa | Mapimi | |||||
(a) | (a) | (b) | note 7(a) | note 7(a) | note 7(b) | (c) | (d) | 2008 | |||
Option | |||||||||||
payments: | Cash | $ - | $ - | $ - | $ - | $ - | $ - | $ - | $ 375,280 | $ 375,280 | |
Shares | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 191,568 | 191,568 | ||
Analysis | - | - | - | 44,624 | - | 210,420 | - | 117,761 | 372,805 | ||
Drilling | - | - | - | 302,427 | - | 890,951 | - | 643,106 | 1,836,484 | ||
Field costs | 1,176 | - | - | 35,697 | - | 15,060 | - | 54,774 | 106,707 | ||
Geology | 5,180 | - | - | 267,517 | - | 694,985 | - | 557,585 | 1,525,267 | ||
Project | |||||||||||
administration | 32,558 | - | - | 16,083 | - | 222,159 | - | 182,021 | 452,821 | ||
Mine | |||||||||||
exploration | |||||||||||
costs | - | - | - | 1,549,391 | - | - | - | - | 1,549,391 | ||
38,914 | - | - | 2,215,739 | - | 2,033,575 | - | 2,122,095 | 6,410,323 | |||
Cost | |||||||||||
Recoveries | (82,397) | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | (82,397) | ||
(43,483) | - | - | 2,215,739 | - | 2,033,575 | - | 2,122,095 | 6,327,926 | |||
Cumulative | |||||||||||
expenses, | |||||||||||
beginning of | |||||||||||
year | 210,074 | 489,654 | 425,465 | 5,817,298 | 168,144 | 4,257,919 | 369,788 | 3,083,486 | 14,821,828 | ||
Cumulative | |||||||||||
expenses, | |||||||||||
end of year | $ 166,591 | $ 489,654 | $ 425,465 | $8,033,037 | $ 168,144 | $6,291,494 | $ 369,788 | $5,205,581 | $21,149,754 |
15
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
The continuity of expenditures on mineral properties for the year ended December 31, 2007 is as follows:
San | Santo | San | Topia | Topia | |||||||
Antonio | Nino | Taco | Main Block | II to IV | Guanajuato | Virimoa | Mapimi | ||||
(a) | (a) | (b) | note 7(a) | note 7(a) | note 7(b) | (c) | (d) | 2007 | |||
Option | |||||||||||
payments: | Cash | $ 49,119 | $102,721 | $ - | $ - | $ - | $ - | $ - | $ 216,623 | $ 368,463 | |
Shares | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 246,000 | 246,000 | ||
Analysis | 19,588 | - | - | 51,098 | - | 293,759 | - | 160,448 | 524,893 | ||
Drilling | 161,212 | - | - | 766,273 | - | 816,417 | - | 928,912 | 2,672,814 | ||
Field costs | 315,688 | - | - | 111,448 | - | 3,007 | - | 171,758 | 601,901 | ||
Geology | 31,582 | - | - | 323,649 | - | 750,145 | - | 459,351 | 1,564,727 | ||
Project | |||||||||||
administration | 30,132 | - | - | 16,490 | - | 52,024 | - | 133,577 | 232,223 | ||
Mine | |||||||||||
exploration | |||||||||||
costs | - | - | - | 1,223,200 | - | - | - | - | 1,223,200 | ||
607,321 | 102,721 | - | 2,492,158 | - | 1,915,352 | - | 2,316,669 | 7,434,221 | |||
Cost | |||||||||||
Recoveries | (631,117) | - | - | - | - | - | - | (631,117) | |||
(23,796) | 102,721 | - | 2,492,158 | - | 1,915,352 | - | 2,316,669 | 6,803,104 | |||
Cumulative | |||||||||||
expenses, | |||||||||||
beginning of | |||||||||||
year | 233,870 | 386,933 | 425,465 | 3,325,140 | 168,144 | 2,342,567 | 369,788 | 766,817 | 8,018,724 | ||
Cumulative | |||||||||||
expenses, | |||||||||||
end of year | $210,074 | $489,654 | $425,465 | $5,817,298 | $168,144 | $4,257,919 | $369,788 | $3,083,486 | $14,821,828 |
16
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
The continuity of expenditures on mineral properties for the year ended December 31, 2006 is as follows:
San | Santo | San | Topia | Topia | |||||||
Antonio | Nino | Taco | Main Block | II to IV | Guanajuato | Virimoa | Mapimi | ||||
(a) | (a) | (b) | note 7(a) | note 7(a) | note 7(b) | (c) | (d) | 2006 | |||
Option | |||||||||||
payments: | Cash | $ - | $ 11,495 | $ - | $ - | $ - | $ - | $ 111,337 | $ 93,639 | $ 216,471 | |
Shares | - | - | - | - | - | - | 81,000 | 532,000 | 613,000 | ||
Analysis | 1,288 | - | - | 64,493 | - | 286,744 | - | - | 352,525 | ||
Drilling | - | - | - | 206,977 | - | 620,092 | - | 24,951 | 852,020 | ||
Field costs | 768 | - | - | 228,253 | - | 43,061 | - | - | 272,082 | ||
Geology | 16,782 | 11,307 | - | 352,364 | 44,188 | 848,183 | - | 107,207 | 1,380,031 | ||
Project | |||||||||||
administration | 16,006 | - | - | 127,244 | - | 129,684 | - | 9,020 | 281,954 | ||
34,844 | 22,802 | - | 979,331 | 44,188 | 1,927,764 | 192,337 | 766,817 | 3,968,083 | |||
Cumulative | |||||||||||
expenses, | |||||||||||
beginning of | |||||||||||
year | 199,026 | 364,131 | 425,465 | 2,345,809 | 123,956 | 414,803 | 177,451 | - | 4,050,641 | ||
Cumulative | |||||||||||
expenses, | |||||||||||
end of year | $ 233,870 | $ 386,933 | $ 425,465 | $ 3,325,140 | $ 168,144 | $ 2,342,567 | $ 369,788 | $ 766,817 | $ 8,018,724 |
(a) | Santo Nino Project: | |
On March 13, 2007, the Company satisfied all conditions of the option agreement by paying the seventh and final installment payment. By making cumulative payments of US$165,000 over a three year period, the Company is granted ownership to the Santo Nino Mining Concession located in the Guadalupe y Calvo Mining District, State of Chihuahua, Mexico. | ||
On February 2, 2007, the Company entered into an option agreement with Altair Ventures Incorporated (“Altair”). Terms of the agreement allow Altair to acquire a 70% interest in the four mining claims named “San Antonio”, “Iran”, “Chiripa”, and “Santo Nino” by making scheduled cash payments totaling US$200,000, issuing a total of 200,000 shares of Altair and fulfilling certain work commitments on the property over a three year period. As at December 31, 2008, US$60,000 and 150,000 shares of Altair have been received in accordance with the agreement. | ||
There is no underlying Net Smelter Return royalty or other royalties and Great Panther owns 100% of all four concessions as at December 31, 2008. | ||
(b) | San Taco Project: | |
On February 28, 2004, the Company entered into an option agreement (the San Taco Option Agreement) which granted the Company the right and option, for a period of three years plus 30 days, to purchase 100% of the ownership rights in and to the San Taco Mining Concessions located in the Guadalupe y Calvo Mining District, State of Chihuahua, Mexico. |
17
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
The Company did not make the required US$100,000 payment on February 28, 2006 and as a result forfeited all rights and options to the property. | |||
(c) | Virimoa Project: | ||
On June 13, 2005, the Company signed an Option Agreement to earn a 100% interest of the ownership rights in two mining claims designated as the Virimoa Property located in the Topia Mining District, State of Durango, Mexico. | |||
In May 2007, the Company chose to forfeit all rights and options to the property. Of the total consideration of US$300,000 and 300,000 common shares of the Company payable over three years, US$50,000 was paid and 150,000 shares issued. No payments were made in 2007. | |||
(d) | Mapimi Project: | ||
On September 11, 2006, the Company signed an Option Agreement to earn a 100% interest of the ownership rights to seventeen mining concessions collectively known as the Mapimi Project (formerly known as Km 66) in eastern Durango State, Mexico. In consideration for the right and purchase, the Company must make payments totalling US$3,000,000 and issue 500,000 common shares as follows: | |||
(i) | US$20,000 (paid) within 30 days of the signing of the option agreement; | ||
(ii) | US$80,000 (paid) and issuance of 200,000 common shares (issued) upon registration of the option agreement; | ||
(iii) | US$200,000 (paid) and issuance of 200,000 common shares (issued) by the first anniversary of the date of signing the option agreement; | ||
(iv) | US$500,000 (paid) and issuance of 100,000 common shares (issued) by the second anniversary of the date of signing the option agreement; | ||
(v) | US$700,000 by the third anniversary of the date of signing the option agreement; and | ||
(vi) | US$1,500,000 by the fourth anniversary of the date of signing the option agreement. | ||
If the option is exercised, the vendors will retain a 3% Net Smelter Return, each 0.5% (to a maximum of 2%) of which can be purchased for US$500,000. |
18
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
9. | Long-term debt: |
(a) Long-term debt: |
December 31, | December 31, | ||||||
2008 | 2007 | ||||||
Arcoiris concession acquisition, carrying value of US$100,000 | |||||||
(note 7(c)), without interest and discounted at an effective | |||||||
interest rate of 26.8% per annum, payable in four staged | |||||||
payments over three years | $ | - | $ | 99,130 | |||
99,130 | |||||||
Less: unamortized discount | - | (10,505 | ) | ||||
- | 88,625 | ||||||
Current portion | - | (88,625 | ) | ||||
$ | - | $ | - |
Interest accreted on long-term debt totaled $11,154 in 2008 (2007 – $259,355).
(b) Convertible loan notes: |
December 31, | December 31, | ||||||
2008 | 2007 | ||||||
$2,020,000 note due March 9, 2010, interest rate of 8% per | |||||||
annum payable quarterly. Discounted at an effective interest | |||||||
rate of 26.8%. | $ | 1,680,550 | $ | 1,398,507 | |||
$4,050,000 million notes due July 14, 2011, interest rate of 8% | |||||||
per annum payable quarterly. Discounted at an effective | |||||||
interest rate of 25.1%. | 2,971,140 | 2,630,104 | |||||
$ | 4,651,690 | $ | 4,028,611 |
(i) | On March 8, 2006, the Company completed a financing agreement for cash proceeds of $2,020,000. The financing consisted of an 8% per annum unsecured convertible note maturing March 9, 2010, convertible into common shares of the Company at a price of $1.32 per share at the holders’ option at any time. On issuance, the conversion feature of the note had a fair value of $1,006,000 determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model. The assumptions used in the valuation model were a risk- free interest rate of 4.1%, volatility of 63.4%, dividends paid of 0.0%, and an expected life of the option of 4 years. Interest accreted on the note payable during 2008 was $282,043 (2007 - $234,708). | |
(ii) | On July 13, 2007, the Company completed financing agreements for cash proceeds of $4,050,000. The financing consisted of two 8% per annum unsecured convertible notes maturing July 14, 2011, convertible into common shares of the Company at a price of $2.25 per share at the holders’ option at any time. On issuance, the conversion feature of the note had a fair value of $1,563,000 using the Black-Scholes valuation model. The assumptions used in the valuation model were a risk-free interest rate of 4.7%, volatility of 57.9%, dividends paid of 0.0%, and an expected life of the option of 4 years. Interest accreted on the notes payable during 2008 was $341,036 (2007 - $143,104). |
19
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
The fair value of the conversion feature has been recorded in equity, reducing the amount assigned to the debt component. The debt component is accreted to its fair value over the term to maturity as a non-cash interest charge.
10. | Asset retirement obligations: |
The Company’s asset retirement obligations relate to site restoration, clean-up and ongoing treatment and monitoring of the Topia and Guanajuato mines. A reconciliation of the provision for asset retirement obligations is as follows: |
2008 | 2007 | ||||||
Balance, beginning of year | $ | 1,101,171 | $ | 92,285 | |||
Changes in cash flow estimates | (277,971 | ) | 986,182 | ||||
Accretion expense | 281,677 | 22,704 | |||||
Balance, end of year | $ | 1,104,877 | $ | 1,101,171 |
The provision for asset retirement obligations is based on the following assumptions:
|
20
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
11. | Capital stock: | |
(a) | Authorized: | |
Unlimited number of common shares without par value | ||
Unlimited number of Class A preferred shares without par value, issuable in series | ||
(b) | Issued: |
Number of | Stated | |||||||
common shares | value | |||||||
Balance carried forward, December 31, 2005 | 47,349,431 | $ | 21,536,440 | |||||
Exercise of "F" warrants at $0.62 per share | 2,179,472 | 1,351,273 | ||||||
Exercise of "G" warrants at $0.62 per share | 4,034,000 | 2,501,080 | ||||||
Exercise of “H” warrants at $0.62 per share | 2,147,500 | 1,331,450 | ||||||
Exercise of “I” warrants at $0.90 per share | 197,000 | 177,300 | ||||||
Exercise of “J” warrants at $0.90 per share | 3,062,500 | 2,756,250 | ||||||
Exercise of “K” warrants at $2.65 per share | 127,999 | 339,197 | ||||||
Exercise of agent warrants | 1,149,886 | 817,530 | ||||||
Exercise of options | 1,799,560 | 869,257 | ||||||
Private placement at $2.00 per unit, net of costs (i) | 7,500,000 | 13,866,639 | ||||||
Issue of warrants for financing services | (251,500 | ) | ||||||
Issue of shares pursuant to mineral property option agreements | ||||||||
- Virimoa and Mapimi | 250,000 | 613,000 | ||||||
Reclass from contributed surplus on exercise of options | - | 485,229 | ||||||
Balance, December 31, 2006 | 69,797,348 | 46,393,145 | ||||||
Exercise of “I” warrants at $0.90 per share | 3,906,200 | 3,515,580 | ||||||
Exercise of agents warrants | 200,920 | 180,828 | ||||||
Exercise of “J” warrants at $0.90 per share | 5,034,300 | 4,530,870 | ||||||
Exercise of agent warrants | 553,084 | 497,776 | ||||||
Exercise of options | 1,017,500 | 678,000 | ||||||
Issue of shares pursuant to mineral property agreement | 200,000 | 246,000 | ||||||
Reclassification from contributed surplus on exercise of options | - | 819,356 | ||||||
Reclassification to common shares on cashless exercise of options | 35,000 | 126,892 | ||||||
Balance, December 31, 2007 | 80,744,352 | 56,988,447 | ||||||
Exercise of options | 465,000 | 398,250 | ||||||
Exercise of warrants | 100,500 | 142,710 | ||||||
Issue of shares pursuant to mineral property agreement | 344,669 | 191,568 | ||||||
Reclassification from contributed surplus on exercise of options | - | 157,896 | ||||||
Repricing of broker warrants | - | (13,409 | ) | |||||
Balance, December 31, 2008 | 81,654,521 | $ | 57,865,462 |
No preferred shares have been issued.
(i) | On June 1, 2006, the Company issued 7,500,000 units by private placement at a price of $2.00 per unit (Unit) for gross proceeds of $15,000,000 and paid cash issuance costs of $1,133,361. Each Unit comprises one common share and one-half of one transferable share purchase warrant. Each whole warrant entitles the holder, upon exercise, to acquire one common share of the Company at a price of $2.65 until June 1, 2008. After the expiration of the hold period the Company has the right to accelerate the expiry date of the warrants if the closing price of the Company's common shares on the TSX Exchange exceeds $3.35 for a period of 20 consecutive trading days. The warrants expired |
21
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
on June 1, 2008. The Company also issued 479,375 broker warrants entitling the holder to acquire one common share of the Company at $2.00 for a period of twenty-four months. The fair value of broker warrants of $251,500 is recorded as a cost of financing and is included in contributed surplus. The broker warrants expired on June 1, 2008.
During the year ended December 31, 2008, nil (2007 – nil; 2006 – 1,012,500) shares were released pursuant to time-based provisions of the escrow agreement.
(c) | Contributed surplus: |
Stated value | |||||
Balance, December 31, 2005 | $ | 1,638,819 | |||
Issue of warrants for financing activities | 251,500 | ||||
Reclassification to common shares on exercise of options | (485,229 | ) | |||
Stock-based compensation | 4,672,774 | ||||
Balance, December 31, 2006 | 6,077,864 | ||||
Reclassification to common shares on exercise of options | (819,356 | ) | |||
Reclassification to common shares on cashless exercise of options | (126,892 | ) | |||
Stock-based compensation | 1,129,500 | ||||
Balance, December 31, 2007 | 6,261,116 | ||||
Reclassification to common shares on exercise of options | (157,896 | ) | |||
Stock-based compensation | 1,165,121 | ||||
Repricing of broker warrants | 13,409 | ||||
Repricing of stock options | 443,150 | ||||
Balance, December 31, 2008 | $ | 7,724,900 |
(d) | Stock options and warrants: | |
The Company, in accordance with the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “Exchange”), is authorized to grant incentive stock options (“options”) to officers, directors, employees and consultants. The Exchange policies permit the Company’s directors to grant options for the purchase of shares of the Company to qualified persons as incentive for their services. Pursuant to the Company’s 2003 Incentive Stock Option Plan (the “Plan”), options must be non-transferable and may not exceed 10% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company at the time of granting and may not exceed 5% of the outstanding to any individual (maximum of 2% to any consultant) in any 12-month period. The exercise price of options is determined by the board of directors by reference to the market value of the shares at the date of grant. Options have expiry dates of no longer than five years from the date of grant and terminate 30 days following the termination of the participant’s employment. Vesting of options is generally at the time of grant. | ||
On December 3, 2007, the Company amended the Plan to allow a participant the right, when entitled to exercise an option, to terminate the option and in lieu of receiving common shares pursuant to the exercise of the option, receive at no cost to the participant, that number of common shares which when multiplied by the closing price of the common shares on the day immediately prior to the exercise, have a total value equal to the product of that number of common shares subject to the option multiplied by the |
22
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
difference between the closing price on the day immediately prior to the exercise of the right and the option exercise price. In the year ended December 31, 2008, nil (2007 – 35,000; 2006 – nil) common shares were issued upon cashless exercises.
The continuity of common stock options for 2008 is as follows:
Balance | Balance | |||||||
Exercise | December 31, | Cancelled/ | December 31, | |||||
price | Expiry date | 2007 | Granted | expired | Exercised | 2008 | ||
0.45 | February 8, 2009 | 490,000 | - | - | - | 490,000 | ||
0.52 | April 5, 2009 | 30,000 | - | - | - | 30,000 | ||
0.45 | May 25, 2009 | 60,000 | - | - | (20,000) | 40,000 | ||
0.45 | February 27, 2010 | 150,000 | - | - | (25,000) | 125,000 | ||
0.45 | July 26, 2010 | 400,000 | - | - | - | 400,000 | ||
0.90 | January 5, 2011 | 1,201,700 | - | - | (20,000) | 1,181,700 | ||
0.90 | January 14, 2008 | 400,000 | - | - | (400,000) | - | ||
2.65 | January 14, 2008 | 400,000 | - | (400,000) | - | - | ||
1.42 | December 06, 2011 | 2,105,000 | - | (420,000) | - | 1,685,000 | ||
1.42 | March 11, 2012 | 115,000 | - | (15,000) | - | 100,000 | ||
1.42 | June 05, 2012 | 375,000 | - | (125,000) | - | 250,000 | ||
1.42 | September 10, 2012 | 550,000 | - | (25,000) | - | 525,000 | ||
1.42 | April 30, 2010 | - | 350,000 | - | - | 350,000 | ||
1.42 | May 14, 2013 | - | 1,485,000 | (265,000) | - | 1,220,000 | ||
1.42 | July 31, 2013 | - | 125,000 | - | - | 125,000 | ||
6,276,700 | 1,960,000 | (1,250,000) | (465,000) | 6,521,700 | ||||
Weighted average exercise price | $1.22 | $1.42 | $1.97 | $0.86 | $1.16 |
As at December 31, 2008, all share options are fully vested. The weighted average remaining contractual life of the options is 2.7 years.
On April 9, 2008, the Board of Directors approved amending the exercise price of 2,070,000 outstanding incentive stock options previously exercisable at $2.65 to $1.42 and 925,000 outstanding incentive stock options previously exercisable at $2.00 to $1.42. The reduction in the exercise price became effective on April 23, 2008. An expense of $443,150 related to the re-pricing of the options has been included in stock-based compensation expense.
23
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
The continuity of common stock options for 2007 is as follows:
Balance | Balance | ||||||||
Exercise | December 31, | Cancelled/ | Cashless | December 31, | |||||
price | Expiry date | 2006 | Granted | expired | Exercise | Exercised | 2007 | ||
0.45 | February 8, 2009 | 490,000 | - | - | - | - | 490,000 | ||
0.52 | April 5, 2009 | 30,000 | - | - | - | - | 30,000 | ||
0.45 | May 25, 2009 | 100,000 | - | - | - | (40,000) | 60,000 | ||
0.45 | February 27, 2010 | 200,000 | - | - | - | (50,000) | 150,000 | ||
0.45 | July 11, 2010 | 100,000 | - | - | - | (100,000) | - | ||
0.45 | August 30, 2010 | 75,000 | - | - | - | (75,000) | - | ||
0.45 | July 26, 2010 | 580,000 | - | - | - | (180,000) | 400,000 | ||
0.60 | September 29, 2007 | 125,000 | - | - | - | (125,000) | - | ||
0.90 | January 5, 2011 | 1,551,700 | - | - | - | (350,000) | 1,201,700 | ||
0.90 | December 31, 2007 | 237,500 | - | - | (140,000) | (97,500) | - | ||
0.90 | January 14, 2008 | 400,000 | - | - | - | - | 400,000 | ||
2.65 | January 14, 2008 | 400,000 | - | - | - | - | 400,000 | ||
2.65 | December 06, 2011 | 2,295,000 | - | (190,000) | - | - | 2,105,000 | ||
2.65 | March 11, 2012 | - | 165,000 | (50,000) | - | - | 115,000 | ||
2.00 | June 05, 2012 | - | 525,000 | (150,000) | - | - | 375,000 | ||
2.00 | September 10, 2012 | - | 550,000 | - | - | - | 550,000 | ||
6,584,200 | 1,240,000 | (390,000) | (140,000) | (1,017,500) | 6,276,700 | ||||
Weighted average exercise price | $ 1.50 | $ 2.09 | $ 2.40 | $ 0.90 | $ 0.67 | $ 1.71 |
The continuity of common stock options for 2006 is as follows:
Balance | Balance | ||||||
Exercise | December 31, | Cancelled/ | December 31, | ||||
price | Expiry date | 2005 | Granted | expired | Exercised | 2006 | |
0.45 | February 8, 2009 | 710,000 | - | - | (220,000) | 490,000 | |
0.52 | April 5, 2009 | 60,000 | - | - | (30,000) | 30,000 | |
0.45 | May 25, 2009 | 100,000 | - | - | - | 100,000 | |
0.45 | February 27, 2010 | 250,000 | - | - | (50,000) | 200,000 | |
0.45 | May 2, 2006 | 100,000 | - | - | (100,000) | - | |
0.45 | July 11, 2010 | 100,000 | - | - | - | 100,000 | |
0.45 | August 30, 2010 | 125,000 | - | (50,000) | - | 75,000 | |
0.45 | July 26, 2010 | 700,000 | - | - | (120,000) | 580,000 | |
0.60 | September 13, 2006 | 747,260 | - | - | (747,260) | - | |
0.60 | September 29, 2007 | 125,000 | - | - | - | 125,000 | |
0.45 | October 4, 2006 | 416,500 | - | - | (416,500) | - | |
0.90 | January 5, 2011 | - | 1,605,000 | (50,000) | (3,300) | 1,551,700 | |
0.90 | December 31, 2007 | - | 350,000 | - | (112,500) | 237,500 | |
0.90 | January 14, 2008 | - | 400,000 | - | - | 400,000 | |
2.65 | January 14, 2008 | - | 400,000 | - | - | 400,000 | |
2.65 | December 6, 2011 | - | 2,295,000 | - | - | 2,295,000 | |
3,433,760 | 5,050,000 | (100,000) | (1,799,560) | 6,584,200 | |||
Weighted average exercise price | $ 0.46 | $ 1.83 | $ 0.68 | $ 0.48 | $ 1.50 |
The Company applies the fair value-based method of accounting for employee stock options granted after January 1, 2003. During the year ended December 31, 2008, the Company recorded compensation expense for the fair value of stock options of $1,608,271 (2007 - $1,129,500, 2006 - $4,672,774) for stock options that were granted or repriced during the year. The weighted average fair value of options granted
24
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
or repriced during 2008 was $0.32 (2007 - $0.91, 2006 - $0.93) . The fair value per option was determined using the following weighted average assumptions:
2008 | 2007 | 2006 | |||
Risk-free interest rate | 3.0% | 4.4% | 3.8% | ||
Dividend paid | 0.0% | 0.0% | 0.0% | ||
Expected life | 4.1 years | 5.0 years | 4.2 years | ||
Volatility | 66.6% | 64.0% | 65.2% |
(e) | Warrants: | |
The continuity of warrants for 2008 is as follows: |
Balance | Balance | ||||||||
Exercise | December 31, | December 31, | |||||||
Series | price | Expiry date | 2007 | Issued | Exercised | Expired | 2008 | ||
Series “K” Warrants | 1.42 | June 1, 2008 | 3,621,999 | - | (100,500) | (3,521,499) | - | ||
Broker Warrants | 1.42 | June 1, 2008 | 479,375 | - | - | (479,375) | - | ||
4,101,374 | - | (100,500) | (4,000,874) | - |
On April 9, 2008, the Board of Directors amended the terms of the 3,621,999 outstanding “K” warrants and the 479,375 outstanding broker warrants by reducing the exercise price from $2.65 and $2.00, respectively, to $1.42. There was no change to the expiry date.
The continuity of warrants for 2007 is as follows:
Balance | Balance | ||||||||
Exercise | December 31, | December 31, | |||||||
Series | price | Expiry date | 2006 | Issued | Exercised | Expired | 2007 | ||
Series "I" Warrants | 0.90 | Nov. 30, 2007 | 3,906,200 | - | (3,906,200) | - | - | ||
Agents' Warrants | 0.90 | Nov. 30, 2007 | 200,920 | - | (200,920) | - | - | ||
Series "J" Warrants | 0.90 | Dec. 20, 2007 | 5,034,300 | - | (5,034,300) | - | - | ||
Agents’ Warrants | 0.90 | Dec. 20, 2007 | 553,084 | - | (553,084) | - | - | ||
Series “K” Warrants | 2.65 | June 1, 2008 | 3,621,999 | - | - | - | 3,621,999 | ||
Broker Warrants | 2.00 | June 1, 2008 | 479,375 | - | - | - | 479,375 | ||
13,795,878 | - | (9,694,504) | - | 4,101,374 |
25
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
The continuity of warrants for 2006 is as follows:
Balance | Balance | |||||||
Exercise | December 31, | December 31, | ||||||
Series | price | Expiry date | 2005 | Issued | Exercised | Expired | 2006 | |
Series "F" Warrants | 0.62 | June 28, 2006 | 1,039,861 | - | (1,039,861) | - | - | |
Agents' Warrants | 0.62 | June 28, 2006 | 127,500 | - | (127,500) | - | - | |
Series "F" Warrants | 0.62 | July 18, 2006 | 1,139,611 | - | (1,139,611) | - | - | |
Finders' Warrants | 0.62 | July 18, 2006 | 48,200 | - | (48,200) | - | - | |
Series "G" Warrants | 0.62 | Sept. 13, 2006 | 4,034,000 | - | (4,034,000) | - | - | |
Series "H" Warrants | 0.62 | Oct. 4, 2006 | 2,147,500 | - | (2,147,500) | - | - | |
Series "I" Warrants | 0.90 | Nov. 30, 2007 | 4,103,200 | - | (197,000) | - | 3,906,200 | |
Agents' Warrants | 0.90 | Nov. 30, 2007 | 410,320 | - | (209,400) | - | 200,920 | |
Series "J" Warrants | 0.90 | Dec. 20, 2007 | 8,096,800 | - | (3,062,500) | - | 5,034,300 | |
Agent’s Warrants | 0.90 | Dec. 20, 2007 | 735,990 | - | (182,906) | - | 553,084 | |
Series "K" Warrants | 2.65 | June 1, 2008 | - | 3,749,998 | (127,999) | - | 3,621,999 | |
Broker Warrants | 2.00 | June 1, 2008 | - | 479,375 | - | - | 479,375 | |
Agent Warrants | 0.62 | Sept. 13, 2006 | - | 373,630 | (373,630) | - | - | |
Agent Warrants | 0.62 | Oct. 4, 2006 | - | 208,250 | (208,250) | - | - | |
21,882,982 | 4,811,253 | (12,898,357) | - | 13,795,878 |
(f) | Advances on share subscriptions | |
As at December 31, 2008, the Company received a total of $85,000 (2007 – nil; 2006 – nil) in advances on share subscriptions to be applied to future private placements (note 19(a)). The cash was restricted as of December 31, 2008. | ||
(g) | Revision to Shareholder Rights Plan | |
On March 7, 2008, the Board of Directors approved the adoption of a Shareholder Rights Plan (the "Plan") as part of its procedures for dealing with any parties who may seek to acquire control of the Company through a take-over bid or other transaction. To implement the Plan, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized the issue of one Right in respect of each common share of the Company outstanding to holders of record on March 7, 2008. Until the occurrence of certain specific events, the Rights will trade with the common shares of the Company. | ||
The Rights become exercisable only when a person, including any party related to it or acting jointly with it, acquires or announces its intention to acquire 20% or more of the outstanding common shares of the Company without complying with the "Permitted Bid" provisions of the Plan. Under the Plan, a Permitted Bid is a bid made to all shareholders on identical terms and conditions that is open for at least 60 days. If at the end of 60 days more than 50% of the outstanding shares, other than those owned by the offeror and certain persons related to the offeror or acting jointly with it, have been tendered, the offeror may take up and pay for the shares but must extend the bid for a further 10 business days to allow all other shareholders to tender. Should a non-permitted acquisition occur, each Right would entitle each holder of common shares (other than the offeror and certain parties related to the offeror or acting jointly with it) to purchase additional common shares of the Company at a 50% discount to the market price at the time. The Plan was ratified on June 27, 2008 and will continue until the annual general meeting of shareholders in 2012. |
26
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
12. | Accumulated other comprehensive income: |
December 31, | December 31, | ||||||
2008 | 2007 | ||||||
Balance, beginning of period | $ | 5,945 | $ | - | |||
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities | (43,537 | ) | 5,945 | ||||
Balance, end of period | $ | (37,592 | ) | $ | 5,945 |
13. | Capital management: | |
The Company’s objectives when managing capital are to: | ||
ensure there are adequate capital resources to safeguard the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, | ||
maintain adequate levels of funding to support the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of mineral properties, | ||
maintain investor, creditor and market confidence to sustain future development of the business, and | ||
provide returns to shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders. | ||
The Topia and Guanajuato mines are producing properties, but exploration activities are also performed at these properties in order to identify further resources. Funds realized from the sale of concentrates are largely used to finance the operations of the producing properties. Additionally, the Company carries out exploration activities on the Mapimi property which does not generate any operating income or cash flow. The Company is largely dependent on external financing to fund exploration activities. To undertake planned exploration, the Company will raise additional funds as needed. Funds are primarily secured through convertible debt and equity capital raised by way of private placements. | ||
The Company manages its capital in a manner that provides sufficient funding for operational activities. Annual capital and operating expenditure budgets, and rolling forecasts, are used to determine the necessary capital requirements. These budgets are approved by management and the Board of Directors and updated for changes in the underlying assumptions, economic conditions and risk characteristics of the underlying assets, as necessary. In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Company may issue new debt or capital through private placements. For the year ended December 31, 2008, there were some changes in quantitative and qualitative data about the Company’s objectives, policies and processes for managing capital as compared to the prior period. In response to the global economic downturn in the latter part of 2008, the Company increased its focus on internally generated cash flow to reduce its reliance on equity and debt financing. |
27
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
As at December 31, 2008, total managed capital was $14,231,611, comprised of:
December 31, | December 31, | ||||||
2008 | 2007 | ||||||
Total debt(1) | $ | 5,544,976 | $ | 4,117,236 | |||
Less: Cash | 606,244 | 5,357,977 | |||||
Net debt (cash) | 4,938,732 | (1,240,741 | ) | ||||
Shareholders’ equity | 9,292,879 | 21,196,469 | |||||
Adjusted capital | $ | 14,231,611 | $ | 19,955,728 | |||
Debt to adjusted capital ratio | 0.35 | (0.06 | ) |
(1) Includes current and long term portion of capital lease obligation and convertible loan notes
The Company’s capital structure is dependent on expected business growth and changes in the business environment.
The Company is subject to externally imposed capital requirements under its lease financing contract. The Company’s subsidiary may not transfer or assign more than 20% of its assets to a third party or enter into a merger contract without prior consent or the debt becomes fully repayable. Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries are subject to any other externally imposed capital requirements such as loan covenants or capital ratios. During the year ended December 31, 2008, the Company met all externally imposed capital and debt repayment requirements.
14. | Fair value of financial instruments: | |
The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, amounts receivable, and accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate their fair values due to the short-term nature of the items. The fair value of marketable securities is based on current bid prices at December 31, 2008. The fair value of the capital lease obligation to a third party approximates the amortized cost as the interest rate reflects the estimated market rate at December 31, 2008. The fair value of the convertible notes at December 31, 2008 is $6,014,000 as determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model. The weighted average assumptions used in the valuation model were a risk-free interest rate of 1.1%, volatility of 85.6%, dividends paid of 0.0%, and an expected life of the options of 1.9 years. The carrying value of the convertible notes at December 31, 2008 was $4,651,690. | ||
In evaluating fair value information, considerable judgment is required to interpret the market data used to develop the estimates. The use of different market assumptions and different valuation techniques may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts. Accordingly, the estimates of fair value presented herein may not be indicative of the amounts that could be realized in a current market exchange. | ||
For the year ended December 31, 2008, a mark-to-market loss of $43,537 for marketable securities designated as available-for-sale has been recognized in other comprehensive loss. Available-for-sale financial assets are denominated in Canadian dollars. There were no disposals or impairment provisions during the current interim period. |
28
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
15. | Financial risk exposure and risk management: | |
The Company is exposed in varying degrees to a number of risks arising from financial instruments. Management’s close involvement in the operations allows for the identification of risks and variances from expectations. The Company does not participate in the use of financial instruments to mitigate these risks and has no designated hedging transactions. The Company has no collateral on its debt. The Board approves and monitors the risk management processes. The Board’s main objectives for managing risks are to ensure liquidity, the fulfillment of obligations, the continuation of the Company’s exploration program, and limited exposure to credit and market risks. There were no changes to the objectives or the process from the prior year. | ||
The types of risk exposure and the way in which such exposures are managed are as follows: | ||
(a) | Concentration risk: | |
Concentration risks exist in cash and cash equivalents because significant balances are maintained with one financial institution. The risk is mitigated because the financial institution is a prime Canadian bank. Risk also exists in sales because the Company’s revenues are currently substantially derived from sales to two customers in Mexico. Prior to 2008, the Company sold its concentrate to one customer. To mitigate the risk, the Company entered into a sales contract with a second customer. The Company continues to consider selling its concentrate to other potential economically viable customers. | ||
(b) | Credit risk: | |
Credit risk primarily arises from the Company’s cash and cash equivalents and amounts receivable. The risk exposure is limited to their carrying amounts at the balance sheet date. Cash and cash equivalents are held as cash deposits or invested in guaranteed investment certificates with various maturity dates. The Company does not invest in asset-backed deposits or investments and does not expect any credit losses. The Company periodically assesses the quality of its investments and is satisfied with the credit rating of the bank and the investment grade of its guaranteed investment certificates. | ||
Amounts receivable primarily consists of value added tax recoverable (“VAT”) and trade accounts receivable. To reduce credit risk, the Company regularly reviews the collectibility of its amounts receivable and establishes an allowance based on its best estimate of potentially uncollectible amounts. An allowance of $303,126 has been provided for potentially uncollectible VAT as at December 31, 2008. With respect to trade receivables, our customers are large, publicly traded companies and have conducted business in Mexico for a number of years. At December 31, 2008, the trade accounts receivable balance totaled $1,693,512 of which 98% of the balance is due within 60 days. The Company historically has not had difficulty collecting receivables from its customers, nor have customers defaulted on any payments. | ||
(c) | Liquidity risk: | |
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they become due. | ||
The Company ensures there is sufficient capital to meet short term business requirements. One of management’s goals is to maintain an optimal level of liquidity through the active management of the assets, liabilities and cash flows. The Company prepares annual budgets which are approved by the Board of Directors and prepares cash flows and liquidity forecasts on a quarterly basis. |
29
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
For the year ended December 31, 2008, receipt of trade and VAT receivables and draws on cash and cash equivalents were used to fund the operating costs associated with the producing properties as well as mineral property exploration expenditures and head office costs. The Company’s cash and cash equivalents are invested in guaranteed investment certificates which are available on demand to fund the Company’s operating costs and other financial demands. | ||
The maturities of the Company’s convertible loan notes and capital lease obligation are disclosed in Notes 9 and 18(e). The Company manages the long-term liquidity risks associated with the convertible loan notes by including a holder’s conversion feature in the agreements, which it anticipates will be exercised. In the event that the conversion feature is not exercised, the expectation is that the Company will have sufficient cash flow from operations to repay the debt. | ||
(d) | Market risk: | |
The significant market risks to which the Company is exposed are currency, interest rate and commodity price risk. | ||
(i) Currency risk | ||
The operating results and financial position of the Company are reported in Canadian dollars. As the Company operates in an international environment, some of the Company’s financial instruments and transactions are denominated in currencies other than the Canadian dollar. The results of the Company’s operations are subject to currency transaction and translation risk. | ||
The Company’s exploration, development, operating costs, and a significant portion of its administrative costs are in Mexico and are denominated in Mexican pesos or US dollars. Revenues from the sale of concentrates are denominated in US dollars. The fluctuation of the US dollar and Mexican peso in relation to the Canadian dollar will consequently impact the profitability of the Company and may also affect the value of the Company’s assets and the amount of shareholders’ equity. | ||
Comparative foreign exchange rates as at December 31, 2008 are as follows: |
December 31, | December 31, | ||
2008 | 2007 | ||
MXN Peso to CDN Dollar | 0.089 | 0.091 | |
US Dollar to CDN Dollar | 1.218 | 0.991 |
The Company has not entered into any agreements or purchased any foreign currency hedging arrangements to hedge possible currency risks at this time. Management believes the foreign exchange risk derived from currency conversions for the Mexican operations is not significant and therefore does not hedge its foreign exchange risk. Additionally, the US dollar trade accounts receivable are short term in nature and foreign currency risk exposure is minimal.
(ii) Interest rate risk
The Company’s policy is to invest cash in guaranteed investment certificates at fixed or floating rates of interest and cash equivalents are to be maintained in floating rates of interest in order to maintain liquidity, while achieving a satisfactory return for shareholders. Fluctuations in interest rates impact the value of cash and cash equivalents. The Company manages risk by monitoring changes in interest rates in
30
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
comparison to prevailing market rates. As at December 31, 2008, the Company did not hold any guaranteed investment certificates.
For financial liabilities, the convertible loan notes and capital leases carry fixed interest rates of 8.0% and 9.6% per annum, respectively, and as such are not subject to fluctuations of interest rates.
(iii) Commodity price risk
The value of the Company’s mineral resource properties depends on the price of silver, gold, lead and zinc and the outlook for these minerals. As at December 31, 2008, market prices were US$10.79/oz for silver, US$870/oz for gold, US$949/tonne for lead, and US$1,121/tonne for zinc.
Silver and gold, as well as lead and zinc prices have historically fluctuated widely and are affected by numerous factors outside of the Company’s control, including, but not limited to, market fluctuations, government regulations relating to prices, taxes, royalties, allowable production, import, exports and supply and demand, industrial and retail demand, forward sales by producers and speculators, levels of worldwide production, short-term changes in supply and demand because of speculative hedging activities, and certain other factors related specifically to silver and gold. The value of trade receivables depends on changes in metal prices over the quotational period.
The profitability of the Company’s operations is highly correlated to the market price of silver and gold. If metal prices decline for a prolonged period below the cost of production of the Company’s Topia and Guanajuato mines, it may not be economically feasible to continue production.
The Company has not entered into any hedging or other commodity based risk instruments.
(iv) Sensitivity analysis
Based on historic trends over the last twelve months, volatilities in the above-noted market risks, and management’s knowledge and experience in the financial markets, the Company believes the following movements are reasonably possible over a twelve-month period.
| ||
If these movements were to occur, the impact on the consolidated net loss for each category of financial instrument held at the balance sheet date is presented below in thousands of dollars. |
31
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
Interest Rate | Currency Rate | Commodity Price | ||||||
Risk | Risk | Risk | ||||||
-1% | +1% | -10% | +10% | -10% | +10% | |||
Carrying | ||||||||
Amount | Income | Income | Income | Income | Income | Income | ||
($'000) | ($'000) | ($'000) | ($'000) | ($'000) | ($'000) | ($'000) | ||
Financial assets | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | ||||||||
CAD | 115 | (1) | 1 | - | - | - | - | |
USD | 114 | (1) | 1 | 13 | (10) | - | - | |
Pesos | 377 | (4) | 4 | 42 | (34) | - | - | |
Amounts receivable | ||||||||
USD | 337 | - | - | 37 | (31) | (34) | 34 | |
Pesos | 2,433 | - | - | 270 | (221) | - | - | |
Financial liabilities | ||||||||
Accounts payable and | ||||||||
accrued liabilities | ||||||||
USD | 1,000 | - | - | (111) | 91 | - | - | |
Pesos | 1,443 | - | - | (160) | 131 | - | - | |
Capital lease obligation | ||||||||
USD | 893 | - | - | (99) | 81 | - | - | |
Total Increase(Decrease) | (6) | 6 | (8) | 7 | (34) | 34 |
16. | Income taxes: |
Provision for income taxes: |
2008 | 2007 | 2006 | ||||||||
Current income taxes | $ | (131,599 | ) | $ | 149,969 | $ | 127,475 | |||
Future income taxes | (519,890 | ) | 2,421,504 | (17,459 | ) | |||||
$ | (651,489 | ) | $ | 2,571,473 | $ | 110,016 | ||||
Income tax expense (recovery) differs from the amount which would result from applying the statutory | ||||||||||
Canadian tax rates for the following reasons: | ||||||||||
2008 | 2007 | 2006 | ||||||||
Net income (loss) before tax | $ | (14,937,341 | ) | $ | (17,129,388 | ) | $ | (14,974,421 | ) | |
Canadian income tax rate | 31.00% | 34.12% | 34.12% | |||||||
Income tax recovery expected | (4,630,576 | ) | (5,844,547 | ) | (5,109,272 | ) | ||||
Permanent differences | 786,549 | (81,800 | ) | 1,766,992 | ||||||
Difference in tax rates | 1,575,899 | 561,686 | 809,932 | |||||||
Benefit of tax attributes not recognized and | ||||||||||
other items | 1,616,639 | 7,936,134 | 2,642,364 | |||||||
$ | (651,489 | ) | $ | 2,571,473 | $ | 110,016 |
32
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
The significant components of the Company’s future income tax assets are as follows:
2008 | 2007 | ||||||
Future income tax assets: | |||||||
Mineral property, plant and equipment and related debt | $ | 880,991 | $ | 1,022,274 | |||
Office equipment financing and other | 313,855 | 430,454 | |||||
Capital losses | 252,794 | 261,141 | |||||
Non-capital losses | 4,068,367 | 3,717,141 | |||||
Total future income tax assets | 5,516,007 | 5,431,010 | |||||
Valuation allowance | (5,516,007 | ) | (5,431,010 | ) | |||
Future income tax assets, net of allowance | - | - | |||||
Future income tax liabilities: | |||||||
Mineral properties | (1,901,614 | ) | (2,421,504 | ) | |||
Future income tax liability | $ | (1,901,614 | ) | $ | (2,421,504 | ) |
At December 31, 2008, the Company had operating losses of $17,300,903 (2007 - $13,170,509; 2006 - $20,988,000) and capital losses of $1,934,816 (2007 - $1,934,816; 2006 - $1,934,816). The operating losses at December 31, 2008 includes $15,269,132 (2007 - $12,365,275; 2006 - $7,285,000) in Canada and $2,031,745 (2007 - $805,233; 2006 - $13,703,000) in Mexico. The capital losses are without expiry, and the operating losses expire at various dates to 2028.
A new tax in Mexico, referred to as a “Flat Tax”, was enacted in 2007 and came into effect on January 1, 2008. The Flat Tax is an alternative minimum tax. Taxpayers are required to pay the higher of the amount due under Income Tax or Flat Tax. The tax basis of fixed assets is significantly reduced and tax losses originating from prior years are not deductible under Flat Tax. For the year ended December 31, 2008, three of the Company’s subsidiaries were subject to Income Tax and one subsidiary was subject to Flat Tax.
17. | Related party transactions: |
The Company entered into the following transactions with related parties: |
2008 | 2007 | 2006 | ||||||||
Consulting fees paid or accrued to companies | ||||||||||
controlled by directors of the Company | $ | 595,823 | $ | 539,000 | $ | 388,250 | ||||
Consulting fees paid or accrued to companies | ||||||||||
controlled by officers of the Company | 266,230 | 395,943 | 272,578 | |||||||
Cost recoveries received or accrued from a | ||||||||||
company with a common director of the Company | 82,397 | 631,117 | - | |||||||
Office and administration fees paid or accrued to | ||||||||||
a company controlled by a director of the Company | 36,138 | 39,879 | 101,060 |
33
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
As at December 31, 2008, $314,435 (2007 – $74,401; 2006 – nil) was due to companies controlled by officers and directors of the Company and was included in accounts payable. Amounts due from companies with a common director were $61,720 (2007 – $400,742, 2006 - nil) and were included in amounts receivable.
18. | Commitments and contingencies: | |
(a) | On August 16, 2007, Minera de Villa Seca, S.A. de C.V. received a notice of assessment from the Instituto Mexicano Del Seguro Social (the Mexican Social Security Institute (“IMSS”)) for approximately $322,000 of additional social security contributions due and penalties thereon. On November 9, 2007, the Company appealed this assessment and pledged a small piece of unused property at the Guanajuato mine as a guarantee. The guarantee will be removed upon successful appeal of the claim or by payment of the amount owing to the IMSS. | |
Unpaid IMSS amounts are required to be adjusted for the National Consumer Price Index and penalties increase over the passage of time. The value of the claim at December 31, 2008 is approximately $510,000. This has not been provided for since management believes that this assessment is without merit and will not have a material adverse impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. | ||
(b) | The Company is committed to making severance payments amounting to approximately $1,552,000 to certain officers and management in the event that there is a change of control of the Company. | |
(c) | Commitments outstanding relating to laboratory and drilling services amount to $943,000 in 2009, $622,000 in 2010, and $619,000 in 2011. | |
(d) | The Company is committed to operating lease payments of $96,000 in 2009, $15,000 in 2010, $15,000 in 2011 and $15,000 in 2012. | |
(e) | The Company has acquired equipment through a capital lease that bears interest at a rate of 9.6% and requires payments to the lease expiry date as follows: |
December 31, | ||||
2008 | ||||
Years ending December 31: | ||||
2009 | 502,050 | |||
2010 | 480,899 | |||
Total minimum lease payments | 982,949 | |||
Less amount representing interest | 89,663 | |||
Balance of the obligation | 893,286 | |||
Current portion | 436,498 | |||
$ | 456,788 |
Included in mineral properties, plant and equipment at December 31, 2008, are leased assets with a cost of $785,047 and accumulated depreciation of $87,375. Interest on the capital lease of $24,438 is included in interest expense. Subsequent to year end, the lease agreement was amended for new payment terms note 19(d).
34
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
19. | Subsequent events: | |
(a) | On January 23, 2009, the Company closed a private placement offering of 5,125,000 units of the Company at a price of $0.20 per unit for gross proceeds of $1,025,000. Each unit comprises one common share and one-half of one non-transferable share purchase warrant. The securities issued in the private placement are subject to a hold period expiring May 24, 2009. Each whole warrant entitles the holder, upon exercise, to acquire one common share of the Company at a price of $0.35 until January 22, 2010. The Company has paid finders' fees totaling $50,400 cash and has issued 169,050 finder's warrants, which are also exercisable at $0.35 until January 22, 2010. Six officers participated by acquiring an aggregate of 565,000 units. | |
(b) | On February 9, 2009, the Company granted incentive stock options to employees, consultants, directors and officers to purchase up to an aggregate of 5,752,700 common shares under the Company’s Incentive Share Option Plan. The options are exercisable for a period of five years from the date of grant at a price of $0.45 per share. On February 9, 2009, the Company cancelled 3,106,700 incentive stock options exercisable at $0.90 and $1.42 which had been granted in prior years to employees and consultants. On February 18, 2009, the Company cancelled 1,450,000 incentive stock options exercisable at $1.42 which had previously been granted to directors and officers. | |
(c) | Subsequent to December 31, 2008, 490,000 incentive stock options exercisable at $0.45 expired. The Company also entered into a consulting agreement and granted incentive stock options to purchase up to an aggregate of 160,000 common shares. The options are exercisable at a price of $0.45 and vest as to 25% on the date of grant and 25% as to every three months thereafter. The options expire three years from the date of grant. | |
(d) | On February 17, 2009, the Company committed to implementing an environmental program as a result of participating in a voluntary audit to ensure compliance with regulations governing the protection of the environment in Mexico. The Company expects to make expenditures of $491,000 in 2009 and $165,000 in 2010 as a result of the program. | |
(e) | On March 4, 2009, the Company’s capital lease agreement was amended to require minimum lease payments of $445,000 in 2009, $490,000 in 2010, and $77,000 in 2011 at an interest rate of 10.5% per annum. | |
20. | Reconciliation between Canadian and United States generally accepted accounting principles and United States accounting pronouncements: | |
The effect of the measurement differences between Canadian GAAP and US GAAP on the consolidated balances sheets and statements of operations and cash flows is summarized as follows: |
December 31, 2008 | December 31, 2007 | ||||||||||||
Canadian | US | Canadian | US | ||||||||||
GAAP | GAAP | GAAP | GAAP | ||||||||||
Convertible note payable | |||||||||||||
(note 20(a)(iv)) | 4,651,690 | 6,070,000 | 4,028,611 | 6,070,000 | |||||||||
Share capital | 57,865,462 | 64,076,667 | 56,988,447 | 63,199,652 | |||||||||
Contributed surplus | 7,724,900 | 7,739,900 | 6,261,116 | 6,276,116 | |||||||||
Equity component of convertible | |||||||||||||
note (note 20(a)(iv)) | 2,569,000 | - | 2,569,000 | - | |||||||||
Deficit | (58,913,891 | ) | (63,989,406 | ) | (44,628,039 | ) | (50,326,633 | ) |
35
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
Share capital and contributed surplus:
2008 | 2007 | ||||||||
Share capital and contributed surplus, under | |||||||||
Canadian GAAP | $ | 65,590,362 | $ | 63,249,563 | |||||
Adjustment for stock-based compensation for | |||||||||
employees (note 20(a)(ii)) | 15,000 | 15,000 | |||||||
Reversal of recapitalization of deficit (note 20(a)(iii)) | 6,211,205 | 6,211,205 | |||||||
Share capital and contributed surplus, under | |||||||||
US GAAP | $ | 71,816,567 | $ | 69,475,768 | |||||
Deficit: | |||||||||
2008 | 2007 | ||||||||
Deficit, under Canadian GAAP | $ | (58,913,891 | ) | $ | (44,628,039 | ) | |||
Adjustment for stock-based compensation for | |||||||||
employees (note 20(a)(ii)) | (15,000 | ) | (15,000 | ) | |||||
Reversal of recapitalization of deficit (note 20(a)(iii)) | (6,211,205 | ) | (6,211,205 | ) | |||||
Interest accreted on convertible loan note (note 20(a)(iv)) | 1,150,690 | 527,611 | |||||||
Deficit, under US GAAP | $ | (63,989,406 | ) | $ | (50,326,633 | ) | |||
Loss and loss per share: | |||||||||
2008 | 2007 | 2006 | |||||||
Loss for the year, under Canadian GAAP | $ | (14,285,852 | ) | $ | (19,700,861 | ) | $ | (15,084,437 | ) |
Interest accreted on convertible | |||||||||
loan note (note 20(a)(iv)) | 623,079 | 377,812 | 149,799 | ||||||
Loss for the year, under US GAAP | $ | (13,662,773 | ) | $ | (19,323,049 | ) | $ | (14,934,638 | ) |
Basic and diluted loss per share, under | |||||||||
US GAAP | $ | (0.17 | ) | $ | (0.27 | ) | $ | (0.25 | ) |
Weighted average number of common | |||||||||
shares, basic and diluted | 81,321,733 | 72,227,455 | 59,720,424 |
36
GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
(a) | These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (Canadian GAAP). A description of US GAAP and practices prescribed by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (collectively US GAAP) that result in measurement differences from Canadian GAAP are as follows: | ||
(i) | Income taxes: | ||
As described in note 2(n), the Company follows the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes which is also in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board No. 109Accounting for Income Taxes(SFAS 109). Under Canadian GAAP, future tax assets and liabilities are recorded at substantively enacted tax rates. Under US GAAP, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded at enacted tax rates. In 2008, there were no differences between enacted and substantively enacted rates. For each of the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, net future tax assets are fully offset by a valuation allowance as it is not more likely than not that the future tax assets would be realized. As a result, the application of US GAAP in accounting for income taxes does not result in any material measurement differences from Canadian GAAP for future tax assets or liabilities. | |||
In June 2006, FASB issued Financial Interpretation No. 48,Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - An Interpretation of SFAS Statement No. 109. This interpretation provides guidance on recognition and measurement of uncertainties in income taxes and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006. For US GAAP purposes, no adjustment was required to the consolidated financial statements as a result of the adoption of this interpretation. | |||
(ii) | Stock-based compensation: | ||
The Company adopted the new recommendations of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants with respect to the accounting for stock-based compensation on January 1, 2002 as described in note 2(i). Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board No. 123,Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation(SFAS 123) became effective for US GAAP purposes for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1995. | |||
For fiscal years ending prior to December 31, 2003, as allowed by SFAS 123, the Company followed the intrinsic value principles of APB Opinion 25,Accounting for Stock Issued to Employeesand related interpretations, in measuring compensation expense for employee options. Under the intrinsic value method, compensation cost is the excess, if any, of the quoted market value of the stock at the measurement date, which is generally the grant date, over the amount an employee must pay to acquire the stock. The application of APB 25 resulted in compensation expense of $15,000 being recognized for employees in the year ended December 31, 2001 under US GAAP and no similar expense was required under Canadian GAAP. Effective January 1, 2003, the Company adopted the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS 123 whereby the fair value of the stock options granted to employees was expensed. Under the modified prospective method of adoption selected by the Company under the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board No. 148 | |||
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation-Transition and Disclosure(SFAS 148), employee compensation cost recognized in 2003 is the same as that which would have been recognized had the provisions of SFAS 123 been applied from its original effective date. Results of prior years have not been restated. |
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GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS 123R)Share Based Payment using the modified prospective method for all employee awards granted, modified or settled after the effective date using the fair value measurement method of this standard. For unvested employee equity awards as of the effective date, compensation is to be recognized based upon the grant date fair value determined under SFAS 123, adjusted to reflect the estimated impact of forfeitures. Upon adoption of SFAS 123R, there was no cumulative effect adjustment required. Non-employee awards are accounted for under the fair value method under both Canadian and US GAAP.
There were no significant differences in accounting for stock-based compensation between Canadian GAAP and US GAAP during the three years ended December 31, 2008.
(iii) | Elimination of deficit: | |
During the year ended December 31, 1999, the Company reduced its paid-up capital by $6,211,205 to eliminate the deficit at March 31, 1999. In order to effect these reductions, it was not necessary to revalue the assets of the Company. As a consequence, all conditions under the US GAAP quasi- reorganization rules were not met and the recapitalization of the deficit would not be recorded. | ||
(iv) | Convertible note payable: | |
Under Canadian GAAP, the proceeds of the financing allocated to the estimated fair value of the conversion feature of the debt is recorded as an equity component of the debt (note 9(b)). Under US GAAP, a value is assigned to the conversion feature only if the effective conversion rate is less than the market price of the common stock at the date of issuance, which it was not. Accordingly, no value would be assigned under US GAAP to the conversion feature on the convertible notes issued in 2006 and 2007. | ||
Applying US GAAP, the convertible notes at December 31, 2008 would be recorded as a liability at face value of $6,070,000 and no value would be assigned to the equity component of the convertible notes. In addition, accretion on the calculated debt discounts on the convertible notes under Canadian GAAP of $623,079 (2007 - $377,812, 2006 - $149,799) for the year ended December 31, 2008 would not have been recorded, reducing interest expense by an equivalent amount. | ||
(v) | Mineral properties, plant, and equipment: | |
Production facilities and mineral property costs are currently amortized over the estimated remaining life of mine of 3 years for Guanajuato and 7 years for Topia. Under US GAAP, the Company expects to use the units-of-production method based on reserves as defined under SEC Industry Guide 7 once such reserve amounts are determinable. | ||
Under Canadian GAAP, periodic option payments related to mineral properties are expensed prior to commercial feasibility of mining operations being established. Under US GAAP, periodic option payments are capitalized when such payments are associated with the acquisition of mineral rights and amortized over their respective option term. This measurement difference is not material for all reporting periods. |
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GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
(b) | Recently adopted United States accounting pronouncements: | |||
(i) | In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement No. 157,Fair Value Measurements. The Statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in the context of GAAP and expands the disclosure surrounding fair value measurement. The statement only applies to fair value measurements that are already required and is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. In January 2008, the FASB deferred the implementation of this standard for all non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities, except those that are or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis, until January 1, 2009. For financial assets and liabilities, the Company has adopted this standard on January 1, 2008. The impact of partially adopting FASB No.157 for the year ended December 31, 2008 was not material to the Company’s financial statements. | |||
(ii) | In February 2007, the FASB issued Statement No. 159,Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Liabilities. This standard provides companies with an option to measure, at specified election dates, certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognized in earnings. The statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The Company has adopted this standard effective January 1, 2008, but has not elected to use the optional fair value measurement. | |||
(iii) | In May 2008, the FASB issued Statement No. 162, TheHierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. The statement identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles to be used in the preparation of financial statements in accordance with US GAAP. This statement was effective for the Company as of November 15, 2008, which is 60 days after the Securities and Exchange Commission’s approval of Auditing Standard No. 6,Evaluating Consistency of Financial Statements. The adoption of this standard had no significant effect on the financial statements. | |||
(c) | Recently issued United States accounting pronouncements: | |||
(i) | In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 160, a standard on accounting for non-controlling interests and transactions with non-controlling interest holders in consolidated financial statements. This statement specifies that non-controlling interests are to be treated as a separate component of equity, with increases and decreases in the parent’s ownership interest as capital transactions. This standard requires net income and comprehensive income to be displayed for both the controlling and the non-controlling interests. Additional required disclosures and reconciliations include a separate schedule that shows the effects of any transactions with the non-controlling interests on the equity attributable to the controlling interest. | |||
The statement is effective for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2008 and is to be applied prospectively to all non-controlling interests, including any that arose before the effective date. The Company does not expect the adoption of this Interpretation to have a significant effect on the Company’s results of operations or financial position. | ||||
(ii) | In December 2007, the FASB issued a revised standard on accounting for business combinations SFAS 141(R). | |||
The major changes to accounting for business combinations are summarized as follows: | ||||
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GREAT PANTHER RESOURCES LIMITED |
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars) |
Years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 |
| |||
The statement is effective for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The Company does not expect the adoption of this Interpretation to have a significant effect on the Company’s results of operations or financial position. | |||
(iii) | In March 2008, the FASB issued FASB Statement No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. This new statement enhances disclosures regarding an entity’s derivative and hedging activities. This statement is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2009. The Company is currently assessing the impact of this new standard. | ||
(iv) | In May 2008, the FASB issued Staff Position No. APB 14-1, Accounting for Convertible Debt Instruments that may be Cash Settled Upon Conversion, which clarifies the accounting for convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash upon conversion. The guidance specifies that issuers of such instruments should separately account for the liability and equity components of those instruments by allocating the proceeds from issuance between the liability component and the embedded conversion option. The guidance is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2009. The Company is currently assessing the impact of this new standard on the Company’s financial statements. |
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