0001173420 false --11-30 2023 Q1 0 0 0 0 2 2 2 4 0 5 0 00011734202022-12-012023-02-28 thunderdome:item iso4217:USD 00011734202021-12-012022-02-28 0001173420ng:DonlinGoldMember2022-11-30 0001173420ng:DonlinGoldMember2023-02-28 0001173420ng:ManagementAndAdministrativeServicesProvidedMemberng:DonlinGoldMember2021-12-012022-02-28 0001173420ng:ManagementAndAdministrativeServicesProvidedMemberng:DonlinGoldMember2022-12-012023-02-28 0001173420ng:PerformanceShareUnitsMember2021-12-012022-02-28 0001173420ng:PerformanceShareUnitsMember2022-12-012023-02-28 xbrli:shares xbrli:pure utr:Y 0001173420ng:PerformanceShareUnitsMember2023-02-28 00011734202023-02-28 iso4217:USDxbrli:shares 0001173420ng:PerformanceShareUnitsMember2022-11-30 0001173420us-gaap:EmployeeStockOptionMember2022-12-012023-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:EmployeeStockOptionMember2023-02-28 00011734202022-11-30 0001173420ng:DeferredShareUnitsMember2021-12-012022-02-28 0001173420ng:DeferredShareUnitsMember2022-12-012023-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:EmployeeStockOptionMember2021-12-012022-02-28 iso4217:CAD 0001173420ng:MinasSanRoqueMember2022-12-012023-02-28 0001173420ng:NoteReceivableUponCompletionOfMinasSanRoqueProjectFeasibilityMember2021-11-30 0001173420ng:NoteReceivableUponCompletionOfMinasSanRoqueProjectPrefeasibilityMember2021-11-30 0001173420ng:MinasSanRoqueMember2021-11-012021-11-30 0001173420ng:BarrickMemberus-gaap:NotesPayableOtherPayablesMemberus-gaap:PrimeRateMember2022-12-012023-02-28 0001173420ng:BarrickMemberus-gaap:NotesPayableOtherPayablesMember2023-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:OtherNoncurrentAssetsMember2022-11-30 0001173420us-gaap:OtherNoncurrentAssetsMember2023-02-28 0001173420ng:DonlinGoldMember2022-11-30 0001173420ng:DonlinGoldMember2023-02-28 0001173420ng:DonlinGoldMember2023-02-28 0001173420ng:DonlinGoldMember2022-02-28 0001173420ng:DonlinGoldMember2021-12-012022-02-28 0001173420ng:DonlinGoldMember2022-12-012023-02-28 0001173420ng:DonlinGoldMember2021-11-30 0001173420ng:DonlinGoldMember2022-11-30 0001173420ng:BarrickMemberng:DonlinGoldMember2023-02-28 0001173420ng:BarrickMemberng:DonlinGoldMember2023-02-28 0001173420ng:NoteReceivableUponApprovalOfGaloreCreekProjectConstructionPlanMember2018-07-27 0001173420ng:NoteReceivableUponCompletionOfGaloreCreekProjectFeasibilityMemberus-gaap:MeasurementInputDiscountRateMember2023-02-28 0001173420ng:NoteReceivableUponCompletionOfGaloreCreekProjectFeasibilityMemberus-gaap:MeasurementInputExpectedTermMember2023-02-28 0001173420ng:NoteReceivableUponCompletionOfGaloreCreekProjectFeasibilityMember2023-02-28 0001173420ng:NoteReceivableUponCompletionOfGaloreCreekProjectPrefeasibilityMember2018-07-272018-07-27 0001173420ng:NoteReceivableUponCompletionOfGaloreCreekProjectFeasibilityMember2018-07-27 0001173420ng:NoteReceivableUponCompletionOfGaloreCreekProjectPrefeasibilityMember2018-07-27 0001173420ng:GaloreCreekMember2018-07-272018-07-27 0001173420ng:NoteReceivableUponCompletionOfGaloreCreekProjectPrefeasibilityMember2023-02-28 00011734202022-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember2022-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember2022-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember2022-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:CommonStockMember2022-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember2021-12-012022-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember2021-12-012022-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember2021-12-012022-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:CommonStockMember2021-12-012022-02-28 00011734202021-11-30 0001173420us-gaap:AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember2021-11-30 0001173420us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember2021-11-30 0001173420us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember2021-11-30 0001173420us-gaap:CommonStockMember2021-11-30 0001173420us-gaap:AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember2023-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember2023-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember2023-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:CommonStockMember2023-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember2022-12-012023-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember2022-12-012023-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember2022-12-012023-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:CommonStockMember2022-12-012023-02-28 0001173420us-gaap:AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember2022-11-30 0001173420us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember2022-11-30 0001173420us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember2022-11-30 0001173420us-gaap:CommonStockMember2022-11-30 00011734202023-03-28
 

 

 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

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

 

For the Quarterly Period Ended February 28, 2023

OR

 

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

 

For the Transition Period from                to

Commission File Number: 001-31913

 

logo.jpg

 

NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

 

British Columbia

N/A

(State or Other Jurisdiction of

Incorporation or Organization)

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

   

201 South Main Street, Suite 400

Salt Lake City, Utah, USA

84111

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

(Zip Code)

 

(801) 639-0511
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934:

 

Title of Each Class Trading Symbol Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Shares, no par value NG NYSE American
    Toronto Stock Exchange

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐

 

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

 

Large accelerated filer

Non-accelerated filer ☐

Smaller reporting company

Accelerated filer ☐   Emerging growth company

 

 

 

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

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes No ☒

 

As of March 28, 2023, the Company had 333,982,678 common shares, no par value, outstanding.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC.

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

  Page
   
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION 1
       
  Item 1. Financial Statements 1
  Item 2. Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 11
  Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk 15
  Item 4. Controls and Procedures 15
       
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION  16
       
  Item 1. Legal Proceedings 16
  Item 1A. Risk Factors 16
  Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 16
  Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities 16
  Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 16
  Item 5. Other Information. 16
  Item 6. Exhibits 16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements or information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws and the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 concerning anticipated results and developments in our operations in future periods, planned exploration activities, the adequacy of our financial resources and other events or conditions that may occur in the future. These forward-looking statements may include statements regarding perceived merit of properties, exploration results and budgets, mineral reserves and resource estimates, work programs, anticipated timing of updated reports and/or studies, capital expenditures, operating costs, cash flow estimates, production estimates and similar statements relating to the economic viability of a project, timelines, strategic plans, including our plans and expectations relating to the Donlin Gold project, permitting and the timing thereof, market prices for precious metals, or other statements that are not statements of fact. These statements relate to analyses and other information that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management. Statements concerning mineral resource estimates may also be deemed to constitute “forward-looking statements” to the extent that they involve estimates of the mineralization that will be encountered if the property is developed.

 

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

 

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

 

 

our ability to achieve production at the Donlin Gold project;

 

 

estimated capital costs, operating costs, production and economic returns;

 

 

estimated metal pricing, metallurgy, mineability, marketability and operating and capital costs, together with other assumptions underlying our resource and reserve estimates;

 

 

our expected ability to develop adequate infrastructure and that the cost of doing so will be reasonable;

 

 

assumptions that all necessary permits and governmental approvals will be obtained and retained, and the timing of such approvals;

 

 

assumptions made in the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of our mineral deposits;

 

 

our expectations regarding demand for equipment, skilled labor and services needed for the Donlin Gold project;

 

 

our activities will not be adversely disrupted or impeded by development, operating or regulatory risks; and

 

 

our expectations regarding the timing and outcome of the appeals to the Donlin Gold 401 Certification (as defined below), the appeals to the State ROW (as defined below) agreement and lease; and the application for water rights.

 

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

 

 

uncertainty of whether there will ever be production at the Donlin Gold project;

 

 

our history of losses and expectation of future losses;

 

 

risks related to our ability to finance the development of the Donlin Gold project through external financing, strategic alliances, the sale of property interests or otherwise;

 

 

uncertainty of estimates of capital costs, operating costs, production and economic returns;

 

 

commodity price fluctuations;

 

 

risks related to market events and general economic conditions;

 

 

risks related to the coronavirus global health pandemic (COVID-19) or other endemics/pandemics;

 

 

risks related to the third parties on which we depend for Donlin Gold project activities;

 

 

dependence on cooperation of the co-owner of Donlin Gold in exploration and development of the project;

 

 

risks related to opposition to our operations at our mineral exploration and development properties from non-governmental organizations or civil society;

 

 

the risk that permits and governmental approvals necessary to develop and operate the Donlin Gold project will not be available on a timely basis, subject to reasonable conditions, or at all;

 

 

risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of our mineral deposits;

 

 

uncertainties relating to the assumptions underlying our resource and reserve estimates, such as metal pricing, metallurgy, mineability, marketability and operating and capital costs;

 

 

risks related to the inability to develop or access the infrastructure required to construct and operate the Donlin Gold project;

 

 

uncertainty related to title to the Donlin Gold project;

 

 

mining and development risks, including risks related to infrastructure, accidents, equipment breakdowns, labor disputes or other unanticipated difficulties with, or interruptions in, development, construction or production;

 

 

competition in the mining industry;

 

 

 

 

risks related to governmental regulation and permits, including environmental regulation;

 

 

risks related to our largest shareholder;

 

 

risks related to conflicts of interests of some of the directors and officers of the Company;

 

 

risks related to the need for reclamation activities on our properties and uncertainty of cost estimates related thereto;

 

 

credit, liquidity, interest rate and currency risks;

 

 

risks related to increases in demand for equipment, skilled labor and services needed for exploration and development of the Donlin Gold project, and related cost increases;

 

 

our need to attract and retain qualified management and technical personnel;

 

 

uncertainty as to the outcome of potential litigation;

 

 

risks related to information technology systems;

 

 

risks related to the Company’s status as a “passive foreign investment company” in the United States; and

 

 

risks related to the effects of global climate change on the Donlin Gold project.

 

This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of our forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements about the future and are inherently uncertain, and our actual achievements or other future events or conditions may differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors, including, without limitation, those referred to in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2022 and this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q under the heading “Risk Factors” and elsewhere.

 

Our forward-looking statements contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are based on the beliefs, expectations, and opinions of management as of the date of this report. We do not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management’s beliefs, expectations or opinions should change, except as required by law. For the reasons set forth above, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

 

 

 

 

 

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.

Financial Statements

 

NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC.

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM BALANCE SHEETS

 

(Unaudited, US dollars in thousands)

 

 

   

As of

February 28, 2023

   

As of

November 30, 2022

 
ASSETS                

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 54,161     $ 63,882  

Term deposits

    62,000       62,000  

Notes receivable (Note 4)

    24,638       24,421  

Other assets (Note 6)

    2,407       2,235  

Current assets

    143,206       152,538  

Investment in Donlin Gold (Note 5)

    5,117       3,848  

Other assets (Note 6)

    3,038       2,803  

Total assets

  $ 151,361     $ 159,189  
                 
                 

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

  $ 515     $ 769  

Accrued payroll and related benefits

    642       2,532  

Other liabilities (Note 8)

    1,317       1,298  

Current liabilities

    2,474       4,599  

Promissory note (Note 7)

    126,629       123,685  

Other liabilities (Note 8)

    954       1,002  

Total liabilities

    130,057       129,286  
                 
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 7 and 8)                
                 
EQUITY                
Common shares     1,984,696       1,983,962  
Contributed surplus     84,293       82,866  

Accumulated deficit

    (2,023,167 )     (2,012,508 )

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

    (24,518 )     (24,417 )

Total equity

    21,304       29,903  

Total liabilities and equity

  $ 151,361     $ 159,189  

 

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

 

These condensed consolidated interim financial statements are authorized for issue by the Board of Directors on April 4, 2023. They are signed on the Company’s behalf by:

 

/s/ Gregory A. Lang

/s/ Anthony P. Walsh

 

 

1

 

 

 

NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENTS OF LOSS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

(Unaudited, US dollars in thousands except per share amounts)

 

   

Three months ended February 28,

 
   

2023

   

2022

 
Operating expenses:                

General and administrative (Note 10)

  $ 5,607     $ 5,177  

Equity loss – Donlin Gold (Note 5)

    4,475       4,040  
      10,082       9,217  
                 

Loss from operations

    (10,082 )     (9,217 )

Interest expense on promissory note

    (2,944 )     (1,512 )

Accretion of notes receivable

    217       210  

Other income (expense), net (Note 11)

    2,225       524  

Loss before income taxes

    (10,584 )     (9,995 )

Income tax expense

    (75 )      

Net loss

    (10,659 )     (9,995 )
                 
Other comprehensive income (loss):                

Foreign currency translation adjustments

    (101 )     178  
                 

Comprehensive loss

  $ (10,760 )   $ (9,817 )
                 

Net loss per common share – basic and diluted

  $ (0.03 )   $ (0.03 )
                 
Weighted average shares outstanding                

Basic and diluted (thousands)

    333,948       332,940  

 

 

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

 

2

 

 

 

NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited, US dollars in thousands)

 

   

Three months ended February 28,

 
   

2023

   

2022

 
Operating activities:                

Net loss

  $ (10,659 )   $ (9,995 )
Adjustments:                

Equity loss – Donlin Gold

    4,475       4,040  

Share-based compensation

    2,161       2,091  

Interest expense on promissory note

    2,944       1,512  

Foreign exchange (gain) loss

    (41 )     112  

Accretion of notes receivable

    (217 )     (210 )

Gain on sale of mineral property

    (556 )      

Change in fair value of marketable securities

    (299 )     (500 )

Other operating adjustments

    25        

Net change in operating assets and liabilities (Note 14)

    (2,326 )     (3,053 )

Net cash used in operating activities

    (4,493 )     (6,003 )
                 

Investing activities:

               

Funding of Donlin Gold

    (5,744 )     (5,936 )

Proceeds from sale of mineral property

    556        
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities     (5,188 )     (5,936 )
                 
Financing activities:                

Withholding tax on share-based compensation

          (2,122 )

Net cash used in financing activities

          (2,122 )
                 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

    (40 )     70  

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

    (9,721 )     (13,991 )

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

    63,882       91,124  

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

    54,161       77,133  

 

 

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

 

3

 

 

 

NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENTS OF EQUITY

(Unaudited, US dollars and shares in thousands)

 

   

Three months ended February 28, 2023

 
   

Common shares

   

Contributed

   

Accumulated

           

Total

 
   

Shares

   

Amount

   

surplus

   

deficit

   

AOCL*

   

equity

 
                                                 

November 30, 2022

    333,753     $ 1,983,962     $ 82,866     $ (2,012,508 )   $ (24,417 )   $ 29,903  

Share-based compensation

                2,161                   2,161  

Stock options exercised

    230       734       (734 )                  

Net loss

                      (10,659 )           (10,659 )

Other comprehensive income

                            (101 )     (101 )

February 28, 2023

    333,983     $ 1,984,696     $ 84,293     $ (2,023,167 )   $ (24,518 )   $ 21,304  

 

   

Three months ended February 28, 2022

 
   

Common shares

   

Contributed

   

Accumulated

           

Total

 
   

Shares

   

Amount

   

surplus

   

deficit

   

AOCL*

   

equity

 

November 30, 2021

    332,416     $ 1,978,520     $ 82,216     $ (1,959,165 )   $ (23,289 )   $ 78,282  

Share-based compensation

                2,091                   2,091  

Performance share units (PSUs) settled in shares

    430       1,731       (1,731 )                  

Stock options exercised

    144       550       (550 )                  

Withholding tax on PSUs

                (2,122 )                 (2,122 )

Net loss

                      (9,995 )           (9,995 )

Other comprehensive income

                            178       178  

February 28, 2022

    332,990     $ 1,980,801     $ 79,904     $ (1,969,160 )   $ (23,111 )   $ 68,434  

 

* Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

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

 

4

 

NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited, US dollars in thousands except per share amounts)

 

 

NOTE 1 NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC. and its affiliates and subsidiaries (collectively, “NOVAGOLD” or the “Company”) operate in the mining industry, focused on the exploration for and development of gold mineral properties. The Company has no realized revenues from its planned principal business purpose. The Company’s principal asset is a 50% interest in the Donlin Gold project in Alaska, USA. The Donlin Gold project is owned and operated by Donlin Gold LLC, a limited liability company that is owned equally by wholly-owned subsidiaries of NOVAGOLD and Barrick Gold Corporation (“Barrick”).

 

The Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (“interim statements”) of NOVAGOLD are unaudited. In the opinion of management, all adjustments and disclosures necessary for a fair presentation of these interim statements have been included. The results reported in these interim statements are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be reported for the entire year. These interim statements should be read in conjunction with NOVAGOLD’s Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended November 30, 2022. The year-end balance sheet data was derived from the audited financial statements and certain information and footnote disclosures required by United States generally accepted accounting principles (US GAAP) have been condensed or omitted.

 

The functional currency for the Company’s Canadian operations is the Canadian dollar and the functional currency for the Company’s U.S. operations is the United States dollar. References in these Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements and Notes to $ refer to United States dollars and C$ to Canadian dollars. Dollar amounts are in thousands, except for per share amounts.

 

 

NOTE 2 SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Contingent note receivable

 

A portion of the proceeds related to the sale of Galore Creek to a subsidiary of Newmont Corporation (“Newmont”) includes a $75,000 note receivable, contingent upon the approval of a Galore Creek project construction plan by the owner(s). The Company has not assigned a value to the contingent note receivable as management determined that the approval of the Galore Creek project construction was not probable as of the closing of the Galore Creek sale or in subsequent periods. The contingent note will be recognized when, in management’s judgement, it is probable that the payment will occur, and that the amount recorded will not reverse in future periods.

 

Investment in affiliates

 

Investments in unconsolidated ventures over which the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence, but does not control, are accounted for under the equity method and include the Company’s investment in the Donlin Gold project. The Company identified Donlin Gold as a Variable Interest Entity (VIE) as the entity is dependent on funding from its owners. All funding, ownership, voting rights, and power to exercise control is shared equally on a 50/50 basis between the owners of the VIE. Therefore, the Company has determined that it is not the primary beneficiary of the VIE. The Company’s maximum exposure to loss is its equity investment in Donlin Gold.

 

The equity method is a basis of accounting for investments whereby the investment is initially recorded at cost and the carrying value is adjusted thereafter to include the investor’s pro rata share of post-acquisition earnings or losses of the investee, as computed by the consolidation method. Cash funding increases the carrying value of the investment. Profit distributions received or receivable from an investee reduce the carrying value of the investment.

 

Donlin Gold is a non-publicly traded equity investee owning an exploration and development project. Therefore, the Company assesses whether there has been a potential triggering event for other-than-temporary impairment by assessing the underlying assets of the equity investee for recoverability and assessing whether there has been a change in the development plan or strategy for the project. If the underlying assets are not recoverable, the Company will record an impairment charge equal to the difference between the carrying amount of the investee and its fair value.

 

Share-based payments

 

The Company records share-based compensation awards exchanged for employee services at fair value on the date of the grant and expenses the awards in the Consolidated Statements of Loss over the requisite employee service period. The fair values of stock options are determined using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. The fair values of PSUs are determined using a Monte Carlo valuation model. The Company’s estimates may be impacted by certain variables including, but not limited to, stock price volatility, employee stock option exercise behaviors, additional stock option grants, estimates of forfeitures, the Company’s performance, and the Company’s performance in relation to its peers.

 

5

NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited, US dollars in thousands except per share amounts)

 

 

NOTE 3 SEGMENTED INFORMATION

 

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision-maker. The chief operating decision-maker, who is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments, has been identified as the Chief Executive Officer. The Chief Executive Officer considers the business from a geographic perspective considering the performance of our investment in the Donlin Gold project in Alaska, USA (Note 5).

 

 

NOTE 4 NOTES RECEIVABLE

 

Galore Creek

 

On July 27, 2018, the Company sold its interest in the Galore Creek project to Newmont for cash proceeds of $100,000, a $75,000 note receivable due on the earlier of the completion of a Galore Creek pre-feasibility study or July 27, 2021, a $25,000 note receivable due on the earlier of the completion of a Galore Creek feasibility study or July 31, 2023, and a contingent note for $75,000 upon approval of a Galore Creek project construction plan by the owner(s). The Company received $75,000 from Newmont on July 27, 2021.

 

As of February 28, 2023, the carrying value of the $25,000 note receivable was $24,638 including $3,690 of accumulated accretion. The carrying value of the note receivable is being accreted to $25,000 over five years at a discount rate of 3.6% based on quoted market values for Newmont debt with a similar term.

 

A contingent note for $75,000 is receivable upon approval of a Galore Creek project construction plan by the owner(s). No value was assigned to the final $75,000 contingent note receivable. The Company determined that Galore Creek project construction approval was not probable as of the closing of the Galore Creek sale. The Company’s assessment did not change as of February 28, 2023.

 

 

NOTE 5 INVESTMENT IN DONLIN GOLD

 

The Donlin Gold project is owned and operated by Donlin Gold, a limited liability company in which wholly-owned subsidiaries of NOVAGOLD and Barrick each own a 50% interest. Donlin Gold has a board of four representatives, with two representatives selected by Barrick and two representatives selected by the Company. All significant decisions related to the Donlin Gold project requires the approval of at least a majority of the Donlin Gold board.

 

Changes in the Company’s Investment in Donlin Gold are summarized as follows:

 

   

Three months ended February 28,

 
   

2023

   

2022

 

Balance – beginning of period

  $ 3,848     $ 3,576  
Share of losses                

Mineral property expenditures

    (4,324 )     (3,944 )

Depreciation

    (139 )     (85 )

Accretion

    (12 )     (11 )
      (4,475 )     (4,040 )

Funding

    5,744       5,936  

Balance – end of period

  $ 5,117     $ 5,472  

 

6

NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited, US dollars in thousands except per share amounts)

 

The following amounts represent the Company’s 50% share of the assets and liabilities of Donlin Gold LLC. Donlin Gold LLC capitalized the initial contribution of the Donlin Gold property as Non-current assets: Mineral property with a carrying value of $64,000, resulting in a higher carrying value of the mineral property for Donlin Gold LLC than that of the Company.

 

   

As of

February 28, 2023

   

As of

November 30, 2022

 

Current assets: Cash, prepaid expenses, and other receivables

  $ 5,991     $ 4,220  

Non-current assets: Right-of-use assets, property and equipment

    1,897       2,036  

Non-current assets: Mineral property

    32,615       32,615  

Current liabilities: Accounts payable, accrued liabilities and lease obligations

    (2,673 )     (2,322 )

Non-current liabilities: Reclamation and lease obligations

    (713 )     (701 )

Net assets

  $ 37,117     $ 35,848  

 

 

NOTE 6 OTHER ASSETS

 

   

As of

February 28, 2023

   

As of

November 30, 2022

 
Other current assets:                

Accounts receivable

  $ 339     $ 301  
Interest receivable     806       62  

Receivable from Donlin Gold

    293       574  

Prepaid expenses

    969       1,298  
    $ 2,407     $ 2,235  
                 
Other long-term assets:                

Marketable equity securities

  $ 2,127     $ 1,845  

Right-of-use assets

    893       939  

Office equipment

    18       19  
    $ 3,038     $ 2,803  

 

 

NOTE 7 PROMISSORY NOTE

 

The Company has a promissory note payable to Barrick of $126,629, comprised of $51,576 in principal, and $75,053 in accrued interest at U.S. prime plus 2%. The promissory note resulted from the agreement that led to the formation of Donlin Gold, where the Company agreed to reimburse Barrick for a portion of their expenditures incurred from April 1, 2006 to November 30, 2007. The promissory note and accrued interest are payable from 85% of the Company’s share of revenue from future mine production or from any net proceeds resulting from a reduction of the Company’s interest in Donlin Gold. The carrying value of the promissory note approximates fair value.

 

 

 

7

NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited, US dollars in thousands except per share amounts)

 

 

NOTE 8 OTHER LIABILITIES

 

   

As of

February 28, 2023

   

As of

November 30, 2022

 
Other current liabilities:                

Remediation liabilities

  $ 1,149     $ 1,156  

Lease obligations

    168       142  
    $ 1,317     $ 1,298  
                 
Other long-term liabilities:                

Remediation liabilities

  $ 200     $ 200  

Lease obligations

    754       802  
    $ 954     $ 1,002  

 

 

NOTE 9 FAIR VALUE ACCOUNTING

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

The Company’s financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, term deposits, accounts receivable, receivable from Donlin Gold, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, and a promissory note. The fair value of the promissory note approximates its carrying value based on accrued interest at U.S. prime plus 2% and the terms for repayment from future mine production or from any net proceeds resulting from a reduction of the Company’s interest in Donlin Gold. The fair value of the Company’s other financial instruments approximates their carrying value due to the short‐term nature of their maturity. The Company’s financial instruments initially measured at fair value and then held at amortized cost include cash and cash equivalents, term deposits, accounts receivable, receivable from Donlin Gold, notes receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, and a promissory note. The Company’s marketable equity securities are valued using quoted market prices in active markets and as such are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the marketable equity securities was $2,127 as of February 28, 2023 ($1,845 as of November 30, 2022), calculated as the quoted market price of the marketable equity security multiplied by the quantity of shares held by the Company.

 

 

NOTE 10 GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSE

 

    Three months ended February 28,  
   

2023

   

2022

 

Share-based compensation (Note 12)

  $ 2,161     $ 2,091  

Salaries and benefits

    1,745       1,768  

Office expense

    891       729  

Corporate communications and regulatory

    507       253  

Professional fees

    302       334  

Depreciation

    1       2  
    $ 5,607     $ 5,177  

 

8

NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited, US dollars in thousands except per share amounts)

 

 

NOTE 11 OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE), NET

 

   

Three months ended February 28,

 
   

2023

   

2022

 

Interest and dividend income

  $ 1,329     $ 136  

Gain on sale of mineral property

    556        

Foreign exchange gain (loss)

    41       (112 )

Change in fair market value of marketable securities

    299       500  
    $ 2,225     $ 524  

 

Minas San Roque

 

In November 2021, the Company sold its 49% interest in the Minas San Roque project in Argentina to Marifil S.A., a subsidiary of International Iconic Gold Mines Ltd. (“Iconic”) for cash proceeds of C$250 upon closing, a C$750 note receivable due on November 1, 2022, and a C$1,000 note receivable due on November 1, 2023. The Company received and recognized a gain of $556 (C$750) during the three months ended February 28, 2023.

 

 

NOTE 12 SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

 

   

Three months ended February 28,

 
   

2023

   

2022

 

Stock options

  $ 1,166     $ 1,193  

Performance share unit plan

    941       836  

Deferred share unit plan

    54       62  
    $ 2,161     $ 2,091  

 

Stock options

 

A summary of stock options outstanding and activity during the three months ended February 28, 2023 are as follows:

 

   

Number of stock options (thousands)

   

Weighted- average exercise price per share

   

Weighted- average

remaining

contractual term

(years)

   

Aggregate

intrinsic

value

 

November 30, 2022

    7,717     $ 6.18                  

Granted

    1,992       5.76                  

Exercised

    (521 )     3.69                  

Cancelled

    (27 )     7.76                  

February 28, 2023

    9,161     $ 6.21       2.70     $ 4,474  

Vested and exercisable as of February 28, 2023

    5,346     $ 5.98       1.69     $ 4,474  

 

The following table summarizes other stock option-related information:

 

   

Three months ended February 28,

 
   

2023

   

2022

 
Weighted-average assumptions used to value stock option awards:                

Expected volatility

    48.5 %     46.4 %

Expected term of options (years)

    4       4  

Expected dividend rate

           

Risk-free interest rate

    3.86 %     1.04 %

Expected forfeiture rate

    2.8 %     2.9 %

Weighted-average grant-date fair value

  $ 2.43     $ 2.51  

Intrinsic value of options exercised

  $ 1,177     $ 1,001  

Cash received from options exercised

  $     $  

 

As of February 28, 2023, the Company had $5,894 of unrecognized compensation cost related to 3,725,000 non-vested stock options expected to be recognized and vest over a period of approximately 2.75 years.

 

9

 

NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited, US dollars in thousands except per share amounts)

 

Performance share units

 

A summary of PSU awards outstanding and activity during the three months ended February 28, 2023 are as follows:

 

   

Number of PSU awards (thousands)

   

Weighted- average grant day fair value per award

   

Aggregate

intrinsic

value

 

November 30, 2022

    1,257     $ 7.65          

Granted

    787       5.74          

Vested

                   

Performance adjustment

    (439 )     6.96          

February 28, 2023

    1,605     $ 6.89     $ 7,281  

 

As of February 28, 2023, the Company had $6,710,000 of unrecognized compensation cost related to 1,605,000 non-vested PSU awards expected to be recognized and vest over a period of approximately 2.75 years.

 

The following table summarizes other PSU-related information:

 

   

Three months ended February 28,

 
   

2023

   

2022

 

Performance multiplier on PSUs vested

    %     93 %

Common shares issued (thousands)

          430  

Total fair value of common shares issued

  $     $ 2,903  

Withholding tax paid on PSUs vested

  $     $ 2,122  

 

 

NOTE 13 RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

The Company provided management and administrative services to Donlin Gold for $246 in the three months ended February 28, 2023 ($nil in the three months ended February 28, 2022). As of February 28, 2023, the Company has accounts receivable from Donlin Gold of $293 (November 30, 2022: $574) included in Other current assets.

 

 

NOTE 14 NET CHANGE IN OPERATING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

 

   

Three months ended February 28,

 
   

2023

   

2022

 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:                

Other assets

  $ (179 )   $ (994 )

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

    (250 )     (151 )

Accrued payroll and related benefits

    (1,890 )     (1,908 )

Remediation

    (7 )      
    $ (2,326 )   $ (3,053 )

 

10

 

 

 

Item 2.

Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

In Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, NOVAGOLD, the Company, we, us and our refer to NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC. and its consolidated subsidiaries. The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations constitutes managements review of the factors that affected our financial and operating performance for the three-month periods ended February 28, 2023 and 2022. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto contained elsewhere in this report and our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2022, as well as other information we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission on EDGAR at www.sec.gov and with Canadian Securities Administrators on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. References herein to $ refer to United States dollars and C$ to Canadian dollars, in thousands, except for per share amounts.

 

Overview

 

We operate in the gold mining industry, primarily focused on advancing the Donlin Gold project in Alaska. The Donlin Gold project is held by Donlin Gold LLC (“Donlin Gold”), a limited liability company owned equally by wholly-owned subsidiaries of NOVAGOLD and Barrick.

 

Our corporate goals include continuing to advance the Donlin Gold project toward a construction decision; maintaining support for Donlin Gold among the project’s stakeholders; promoting a strong safety, sustainability, and environmental culture; maintaining a favorable reputation of NOVAGOLD; and preserving a healthy balance sheet. Our operations primarily relate to the delivery of project milestones, including the achievement of various technical, environmental, sustainable development, economic and legal objectives, obtaining necessary permits, completion of pre-feasibility and feasibility studies, preparation of engineering designs and the financing to fund these objectives.

 

First quarter highlights

 

Stakeholder and government engagement

 

Donlin Gold is fortunate to have time-tested partnerships with Calista Corporation (“Calista”) and The Kuskokwim Corporation (TKC), owners of the mineral and surface rights, respectively. The project’s location on private lands specially selected for mineral development potential pursuant to the 1971 Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act is a key attribute that distinguishes it from most other mining assets in Alaska. Donlin Gold’s commitment to meaningful tribal engagement throughout project development and permitting has been reinforced by decades of reliable and dependable engagement with the community.

 

Donlin Gold continues to work with Calista and TKC in all aspects of outreach and engagement throughout the Yukon-Kuskokwim (“Y-K”) region. Crooked Creek, the closest community to the project site in the Y-K region, recently struggled with access to reliable power and water, which shut down the school, health clinic, and post office. In response, Donlin Gold, Calista and TKC provided support to Crooked Creek by purchasing and delivering a generator, alerting the State of Alaska’s emergency response team for additional assistance, and helping the local authorities to identify a longer-term solution for their infrastructure needs as well as assisting with access to available government funding.

 

Environment and social investments

 

Environmental stewardship, education, community wellness, and cultural preservation constitute key focus investments for Donlin Gold in the Y-K region. The project supports these initiatives through fisheries studies and other environmental activities, subsistence and cultural preservation efforts, and educational grants. A wide range of activities and projects were carried out in the first quarter with Calista and TKC.

 

Donlin Gold was the premier sponsor for the McGrath Iron Dog community safety presentation as part of the Alaska Safe Riders program, promoting safety for snowmachines, all-terrain vehicles and recreational off-road vehicles. The non-profit organization is dedicated to reducing deaths and injuries from tragic accidents.

 

In partnership with Covenant House Alaska and Bethel Community Services, Donlin Gold is working on an action plan to address the chronic and ongoing youth food security issues within the Y-K region. To date, the three entities have successfully leased space from Bethel Winter House with the goal of developing a housing and service hub for 18 to 24 year-olds.

 

Donlin Gold in partnership with Bethel Community Services Foundation and the Aruqutet Project, a regional program to address food insecurity, throughout the Bethel community. Over 550 local households are enrolled in the program to date, with approximately 200 of them receiving food on any given month. Employing local staff and committed volunteers has proven critical for the program’s success.

 

11

 

In partnership with TKC, the village of Crooked Creek, the Akiak Native Community and the Napaimute Tribe, Donlin Gold sponsored a program to construct and maintain the ice roads to allow for winter travel between the remote Kuskokwim River communities. The ongoing development and maintenance of these roads allow for increased participation in community events, cultural activities, sports, and provided access for emergency services, law enforcement and travel. On average a total of 300 miles of ice road is constructed and maintained annually.

 

Advancing education opportunities in Alaska is another high priority for the Company. NOVAGOLD recently awarded the first University of Alaska scholarship to an undergraduate student in mining or geological engineering. Donlin Gold supports the Excel Alaska program which is a non-profit providing supplemental academic, career and technical education intensives for rural youth and young adults across the Y-K region. Student interview preparation sessions took place in the first quarter with four more planned over the next two quarters. Through this preparation, the students receive high school credit towards graduation and concurrent college credits.

 

Permitting

 

Permitting in Alaska has been a tremendous achievement to date and a substantial undertaking over many years to ensure a diligent, thorough, transparent, and inclusive process for all involved, including stakeholders from the Y-K region. Donlin Gold, its owners, and its partners Calista and TKC are intimately familiar with the permitting and regulatory processes applicable to the project and will continue to support the State in its defense of the thorough and diligent permitting process. Together, they will also continue working to secure the various remaining state-level permits and certificates required for the project. Calista and Donlin Gold continued their proactive, bipartisan outreach to the State Administration and new legislature in Alaska and with the Federal Administration and U.S. Congress in Washington, D.C. to highlight the thoroughness of the project’s environmental review and permitting processes as well as the benefits the project would deliver to all Native Alaskans. Alaska’s U.S. Senators and Governor have consistently expressed their long-term support of the Donlin Gold project.

 

The Donlin Gold camp re-opened in the first quarter of 2023 to continue fieldwork to collect geotechnical and hydrological information toward finalizing the next step in the design documentation required for the Alaska Dam Safety certificates, with anticipated field completion in 2023 and issuance of the certificates expected in 2026. In 2022, Donlin Gold applied for a new air quality permit based on updated air quality modeling and emissions controls information, and the regularly scheduled re-issuance of its Alaska Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (APDES) permit from the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC). The new air quality permit is expected to be issued by June 30, 2023, which corresponds to the expiration date of the current permit. ADEC has extended the existing APDES permit indefinitely until a new permit is finalized.

 

On June 3, 2020, Earthjustice joined by Orutsararmiut Native Council (ONC), Chevak, Kasigluk, Eek, Kwinhagak, Marshall, Nightmute, Tununak, Kwethluk, Kotlik, SalmonState, and the Alaska Community Action on Toxics filed a formal appeal with the ADEC Commissioner of the State’s water quality certification under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. The appeal process consists of an Administrative Hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) appointed by the ADEC Commissioner. The ALJ was subsequently appointed. On April 12, 2021, the ALJ issued his opinion for the Commissioner’s consideration recommending the 401 Certification be vacated. The Commissioner issued his decision to uphold the 401 Certification on May 27, 2021. The decision was appealed on June 28, 2021 in Alaska Superior Court by Earthjustice, on behalf of ONC. On September 27, 2021, Donlin Gold filed a motion requesting a short term stay in the case to allow the State to fully consider additional technical materials on mercury and temperature; the State indicated to the Court that they do not oppose the motion. On October 22, 2021, Donlin Gold submitted to ADEC expert technical reports on mercury and temperature. On November 22, 2021, ADEC filed an additional motion asking to remand the 401 certification back to ADEC to determine how the additional information affects the certification. Earthjustice did not oppose the motion although had comments on the remand process. On December 29, 2021, the Court granted the remand request, dismissed the case without prejudice, and left in place existing certification. On May 13, 2022, the ADEC Water Division Director reaffirmed the 401 certification. On June 13, 2022, Earthjustice appealed the elements of the decision related to temperature to the Commissioner and requested an adjudicatory hearing with an ALJ. On July 14, 2022, the Commissioner granted the request for the hearing and a new ALJ was assigned. On September 14, 2022, Earthjustice filed their initial brief. Donlin Gold and ADEC filed response briefs on October 14, 2022. Earthjustice filed their final reply brief on October 21, 2022. The Commissioner’s decision, which he will make in collaboration with the ALJ, is expected in the first half of 2023. It is then subject to further review in Alaska Superior Court.

 

On September 20, 2021, Earthjustice, representing ONC, Cook Inletkeeper, and three villages, filed an appeal of the State pipeline ROW authorization in Alaska Superior Court. An appeal was also filed by a second party, the owner of an outdoor guiding business located near the pipeline route, on September 20, 2021. On April 5, 2022, Earthjustice filed its opening brief, which related to the scope of the cumulative effects analysis required by the Alaska Constitutional, statutory, and regulatory provisions, and related previous litigation. Alaska Department of Natural Resources (ADNR), Donlin Gold, and Calista filed response briefs on June 15-16, 2022. Earthjustice filed its reply on July 18, 2022, and requested oral arguments. The second appellant filed his initial brief on June 8, 2022. ADNR’s and Donlin Gold’s response briefs were submitted on August 22, 2022, and the second appellant filed their reply brief on November 9, 2022. The request for oral arguments was granted by the Court and they were held on January 11, 2023. Decisions in both cases are expected in 2023.

 

12

 

On May 25, 2022, Earthjustice, on behalf of ONC and five villages, filed an appeal of the final Water Rights in Alaska Superior Court. The appellants filed their initial brief on November 21, 2022. ADNR and Donlin Gold submitted their response briefs on March 8, 2023 and the appellants are preparing their final brief. A decision is expected within the next year.

 

In September 2022, 13 tribes sent a letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (“Corps”) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requesting that the Corps consider requiring a supplemental environmental impact statement (EIS) on the Donlin Gold project and revoking the Clean Water Act Section 404 permit in light of what the tribes consider "new information” since the final EIS was issued in 2018. Also in September 2022, the same tribes submitted a separate letter to EPA requesting that they initiate a Clean Water Act Section 404(c) veto process for the Donlin Gold project. A Section 404(c) veto has recently been applied to the Pebble Project in Alaska but is rarely used by EPA. In early January 2023, Donlin Gold and Calista both submitted responses to the Corps on why the requests to prepare a supplemental EIS or revoke the 404 permit should not be granted. In mid-January 2023, Donlin Gold also provided a response to EPA describing why the agency should not initiate a 404(c) process.

 

Donlin Gold project

 

The focus at Donlin Gold is to update the geologic and resource models with the data derived from the extensive drill program that took place over the last three years; reviewing key project assumptions, inputs, and design components for optimization (mine engineering, metallurgy, hydrology, and infrastructure); advancing remaining permits through the regulatory process and supporting the State in maintaining the existing permits; and, through continued engagement, sustaining and expanding project support in the Y-K region.

 

Ultimately, subject to a formal decision by the Donlin Gold LLC board the comprehensive work we are completing should lead to the commencement of a new Donlin Gold feasibility study which, in turn, would initiate the detailed engineering work necessary to advance the project design before reaching a construction decision. The owners will advance the Donlin Gold project in a financially disciplined manner with a strong focus on engineering excellence, environmental stewardship, a strong safety culture and continued community engagement.

 

Our share of funding for the Donlin Gold project in the first quarter of 2023 was $5,744. In 2023, we continue to expect our share of Donlin Gold LLC funding to be $17,000, including $8,000 for external affairs, permitting, environmental, land, and legal activities and $9,000 for project planning and fieldwork.

 

The Donlin Gold LLC board must approve a construction program and budget before the Donlin Gold project can be developed. The timing of the required engineering work and the Donlin Gold LLC board’s approval of a construction program and budget, the receipt of all required governmental permits and approvals, and the availability of financing, commodity price fluctuations, risks related to market events and general economic conditions among other factors, will affect the timing of and whether to develop the Donlin Gold project. Among other reasons, project delays could occur as a result of co-owner disagreements, public opposition, litigation challenging permit decisions, requests for additional information or analysis, limitations in agency staff resources during regulatory review and permitting, or project changes made by Donlin Gold LLC.

 

We record our interest in the Donlin Gold project as an equity investment, which results in our 50% share of Donlin Gold’s expenses being recorded in the income statement as an operating loss. The investment amount recorded on the balance sheet primarily represents unused funds advanced to Donlin Gold.

 

Consolidated Financial Results

 

   

Three months ended

February 28,

         
   

2023

   

2022

   

Change

 

Net loss

  $ (10,659 )   $ (9,995 )   $ (664 )

Net loss per common share, basic and diluted

  $ (0.03 )   $ (0.03 )      

 

Net loss increased by $664 from 2022 to 2023, primarily due to an increase in interest expense on the promissory note, increased permitting costs at Donlin Gold and higher corporate legal expenses, partially offset by increased interest income and other income related the 2021 sale of the Company’s interest in the San Roque mineral property.

 

13

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Liquidity overview

 

At present, we believe we have sufficient working capital available to cover anticipated funding of the Donlin Gold project and corporate general and administrative costs through completion of an updated Donlin Gold feasibility study. Further, we believe we have sufficient working capital available to cover anticipated costs and expenses for at least the next three years. Substantial additional capital will be required once a decision to commence engineering and construction is reached by the Donlin Gold board for the Donlin Gold project. Future financings to fund construction are anticipated through debt, equity, project specific debt, and/or other means. Our continued operations are dependent on our ability to obtain additional financing or to generate future cash flows. However, there can be no assurance that we will be successful in our efforts to raise additional capital on terms favorable to us, or at all. For further information, see section Item 1A, Risk Factors Our ability to continue the exploration, permitting, development, and construction of the Donlin Gold project, and to continue as a going concern, will depend in part on our ability to obtain suitable financing.

 

Our anticipated expenditures in fiscal year 2023 are approximately $31,000, including $17,000 to fund the Donlin Gold project, $13,000 for corporate general and administrative costs, and $1,000 for working capital and other items.

 

Our financial position includes the following as of February 28, 2023:

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents of $54,161, primarily held at three large Canadian domestic chartered banks with high credit ratings.

 

 

Term deposits of $62,000 denominated in U.S. dollars and held at two large Canadian domestic chartered banks with high credit ratings and maturities of less than one year.

 

 

Notes receivable of $25,000 due on the earlier of the completion of a Galore Creek feasibility study or July 27, 2023, and a note for $75,000 fully contingent upon approval of a Galore Creek project construction plan by the owner(s).

 

 

Promissory note payable to Barrick of $126,629, including accrued interest at U.S. prime plus 2%. The promissory note and accrued interest are payable from 85% of the Company’s share of revenue from future Donlin Gold project production or from any net proceeds resulting from a reduction of the Company’s interest in Donlin Gold.

 

Cash flows

 

In the first quarter of 2023 cash and cash equivalents decreased by $9,721, primarily to fund our share of Donlin Gold and for corporate administrative expenses. The decrease in cash used in the first quarter of 2023 compared to 2022 was due to the timing of corporate liability insurance payments in 2022, withholding tax paid on share-based compensation in 2022 (no PSUs vested in 2023) and proceeds received from the sale of the San Roque mineral property.

 

Outstanding share data

 

As of March 28, 2023, the Company had 333,982,678 common shares issued and outstanding. Also, as of March 28, 2023, the Company had: i) a total of 9,161,465 stock options outstanding; 7,930,333 with a weighted-average exercise price of $6.26 and the remaining 1,231,132 of those stock options with a weighted-average exercise price of C$8.10; and ii) 1,605,500 PSUs and 310,957 deferred share units outstanding. Upon exercise or pay out, as applicable, of the foregoing convertible securities, the Company would be required to issue a maximum of 11,880,672 common shares.

 

14

 

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

Our financial instruments are exposed to certain financial risks, including credit and interest rate risks.

 

Credit risk

 

Concentration of credit risk exists with respect to our cash and cash equivalents, term deposit investments and notes receivable. Cash and cash equivalents are primarily held at three of the largest Canadian domestic chartered banks with high deposit credit ratings (S&P: AA- or A-1(mid), Moody’s: Aa1 or Aa3). All term deposits are held through two of the largest Canadian domestic chartered banks with high deposit credit ratings (S&P: AA-, Moody’s: Aa1) and have maturities of less than one year. The notes are receivable from a subsidiary of Newmont, a publicly traded company with investment-grade credit ratings. The notes are guaranteed by Newmont.

 

Interest rate risk

 

The interest rate on the promissory note owed to Barrick is variable with the U.S. prime rate. Based on the amount owing on the promissory note as of February 28, 2023, and assuming all other variables remain constant, a 1% change in the U.S. prime rate would result in an increase/decrease of approximately $1.3 million in the interest accrued on the promissory note per annum.

 

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

 

Management, with the participation of our President and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act) as of February 28, 2023. On the basis of this review, our President and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that the information we are required to disclose in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the SEC and to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our President and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

There have not been any changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) promulgated by the SEC under the Exchange Act) during the Company’s most recently completed fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. The Company’s internal controls over financial reporting are based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

 

15

 

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

 

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

 

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

 

There have been no material changes to the risk factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2022, as filed with the SEC on January 25, 2023. The risk factors in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2022, in addition to the other information set forth in this quarterly report, could materially affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we deem to be immaterial could also materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

None.

 

Item 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

 

Item 4.

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

These disclosures are not applicable to us.

 

Item 5.

Other Information.

 

None.

 

Item 6.

Exhibits

 

See Exhibit Index.

 

 

 

16

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Company has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

Date: April 4, 2023

NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC.

     
 

By:

/s/ Gregory A. Lang

   

Gregory A. Lang

   

President and Chief Executive Officer

(principal executive officer)

 

 

By:

/s/ David A. Ottewell

   

David A. Ottewell

   

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (principal financial and accounting officer)

 

 

 

 

 

17

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit No.

 

Description

     

31.1

 

Certification of the Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)

     

31.2

 

Certification of the Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)

     

32.1

 

Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350

     

32.2

 

Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350

     

101

 

The following materials are filed herewith: (i) Inline XBRL Instance, (ii) Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema, (iii) Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation, (iv) XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels, (v) XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation, and (vi) Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition.

     

104

 

Cover Page Interactive Data File – The cover page interactive data file does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

18