UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
North American Nickel Inc. |
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(Translation of registrants name into English) | ||||
British Columbia | ||||
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | ||||
Suite 301 260 West Esplanade, North Vancouver, BC Canada V7M 3G7 |
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(Address of principal executive office) |
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Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F: [x] Form 20-F [ ] Form 40-F | ||||
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1): [ ] | ||||
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7): [ ] | ||||
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934: [ ] Yes [x] No | ||||
If "Yes" is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b): n/a |
North American Nickel Inc. on May 29, 2014 has distributed Exhibits 99.1 to 99.4 [inclusive] to the applicable Canadian securities regulators and to shareholders who requested same, to disseminate its interim financial statements and related materials for the Quarter ended March 31, 2014.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. |
North American Nickel Inc. | ||
Date: June 9, 2014 | By: |
Douglas E. Ford |
Name: | Douglas E. Ford | |
Title: | Director | |
Exhibit No. | Description | |
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99.1 | Q1 2014 Financial Statements | |
99.2 | Q1 2014 Management Discussion | |
99.3 | CEO Certification Q1 2014 | |
99.4 | CFO Certification Q1 2014 | |
NORTH AMERICAN NICKEL INC.
Condensed Interim Financial Statements
Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
Notice to Reader of the Unaudited Interim Financial Statements
for the three months ended March 31, 2014
In accordance with National Instrument 51-102, of the Canadian Securities Administrators, the Company discloses that its auditors have not reviewed the unaudited interim financial statements.
The unaudited interim financial statements of North American Nickel Inc. (the Company) for the three month period ended March 31, 2014 (Financial Statements) have been prepared by management. The Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the Companys audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013, which are available at the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. The Financial Statements are stated in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise indicated, and are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
NORTH AMERICAN NICKEL INC. | ||||||||||||
Condensed Interim Statement of Financial Position | ||||||||||||
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars - unaudited ) | ||||||||||||
March 31, | December 31, | |||||||||||
Notes | 2014 | 2013 | ||||||||||
ASSETS
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Current assets
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Cash
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$ | 742,040 | $ | 278,919 | ||||||||
Short-term investments
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7 | 5,000,000 | 6,000,000 | |||||||||
Receivables
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8 | 58,531 | 47,010 | |||||||||
Prepaid expenses and deposits
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182,110 | 10,698 | ||||||||||
Total current assets
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5,982,681 | 6,336,627 | ||||||||||
Non-current assets
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Equipment
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9 | 35,374 | 37,676 | |||||||||
Exploration and evaluation assets
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10 | 12,698,385 | 12,341,616 | |||||||||
Total non-current assets
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12,733,759 | 12,379,292 | ||||||||||
Total assets
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$ | 18,716,440 | $ | 18,715,919 | ||||||||
LIABILITIES
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Current liabilities
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Trade payables and accrued liabilities
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11, 13 | $ | 237,185 | $ | 36,040 | |||||||
SHAREHOLDERS EQUITY
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Share capital preferred
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12 | 604,724 | 604,724 | |||||||||
Share capital common
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12 | 33,069,190 | 33,026,511 | |||||||||
Share-based payments reserve
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12 | 2,995,088 | 3,022,767 | |||||||||
Deficit
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(18,189,747 | ) | (17,974,123 | ) | ||||||||
Total shareholders equity
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18,479,255 | 18,679,879 | ||||||||||
Total liabilities and shareholders equity
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$ | 18,716,440 | $ | 18,715,919 | ||||||||
APPROVED BY THE DIRECTORS:
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______________________________, Director | _______________________, Director | |||||||||||
Rick Mark
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Edward D. Ford |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
NORTH AMERICAN NICKEL INC. | ||||||||||||
Condensed Interim Statement of Comprehensive Loss | ||||||||||||
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars - unaudited) | ||||||||||||
For the three months ended March 31, 2014 | ||||||||||||
March 31, | March 31, | |||||||||||
Notes | 2014 | 2013 | ||||||||||
Expenses |
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Amortization |
9 | $ | 2,302 | $ | 3,386 | |||||||
Consulting |
13 | 43,552 | 22,238 | |||||||||
Filing fees |
2,505 | 4,453 | ||||||||||
Investor relations |
75,049 | 24,664 | ||||||||||
General and administrative |
13 | 18,596 | 8,470 | |||||||||
Management fees |
13 | 32,000 | 27,000 | |||||||||
Professional fees |
2,561 | 7,238 | ||||||||||
Property investigation |
| 5,989 | ||||||||||
Salaries |
13 | 41,694 | 18,684 | |||||||||
Share-based payments |
12, 13 | | 50,372 | |||||||||
Travel and accommodation |
11,111 | 8,874 | ||||||||||
Loss before other items |
(229,370 | ) | (181,367 | ) | ||||||||
Other items: |
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Interest income |
17,630 | | ||||||||||
Foreign exchange loss |
(3,884 | ) | (6,875 | ) | ||||||||
Net loss and comprehensive loss for the period |
$ | (215,624 | ) | $ | (188,243 | ) | ||||||
Loss per common share basic and diluted |
$ | (0.00 | ) | $ | (0.00 | ) | ||||||
Weighted average number of common shares
outstanding |
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- basic and diluted |
140,599,917 | 80,636,860 | ||||||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.NORTH AMERICAN NICKEL INC. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Condensed Interim Statement of Changes In Shareholder's Equity | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the three months ended March 31, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Share-based payments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Notes | Number of shares | Share capital | Preferred Stock | reserve | Deficit | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2012 |
80,560,193 | $ | 22,181,970 | $ | 604,724 | $ | 2,873,676 | $ | (16,713,822 | ) | $ | 8,946,548 | ||||||||||||||||
Net and comprehensive loss |
| | | | (188,242 | ) | (188,242 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Stock options issued |
12 | | | | 50,372 | | 50,372 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Warrants exercised |
12 | 100,000 | 10,000 | | | | 10,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at March 31, 2013 |
80,660,193 | 22,191,970 | 604,724 | 2,924,048 | (16,902,064 | ) | 8,818,678 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Loss for the period |
| | | | (1,072,059 | ) | (1,072,059 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Share capital issued private placement |
41,494,692 | 7,054,098 | | | | 7,054,098 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock options issued |
| | | 127,859 | | 127,859 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock options exercised |
145,500 | 55,965 | (29,140 | ) | 26,825 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Warrants exercised |
18,276,199 | 3,838,002 | | | | 3,838,002 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Share issue costs |
| (113,524 | ) | | | | (113,524 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2013 |
140,576,584 | 33,026,511 | 604,724 | 3,022,767 | (17,974,123 | ) | 18,679,879 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Net and comprehensive loss |
| | | | (215,624 | ) | (215,624 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Stock options exercised |
12 | 100,000 | 42,679 | | (27,679 | ) | | 15,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at March 31, 2014 |
140,676,584 | $ | 33,069,190 | $ | 604,724 | $ | 2,995,088 | $ | (18,189,747 | ) | $ | 18,479,254 | ||||||||||||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
NORTH AMERICAN NICKEL INC. | ||||||||
Condensed Interim Statement of Cash Flows | ||||||||
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars - unaudited) | ||||||||
For the three months ended March 31, 2014 | ||||||||
March 31, | March 31, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
OPERATING ACTIVITIES |
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Loss for the period |
$ | (215,624 | ) | $ | (188,242 | ) | ||
Items not affecting cash |
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Amortization |
2,302 | 3,386 | ||||||
Share-based payments |
| 50,373 | ||||||
Interest Income |
(17,630 | ) | | |||||
(230,952 | ) | (134,483 | ) | |||||
Changes in non-cash working capital items: |
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Receivables |
1,424 | (8,900 | ) | |||||
Prepaid expenses |
(171,412 | ) | 8,198 | |||||
Trade payables and accrued liabilities |
127,957 | 79,676 | ||||||
Other: |
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Interest received |
4,685 | | ||||||
Due to related parties |
73,188 | 915 | ||||||
Cash used in operating activities |
(195,110 | ) | (54,595 | ) | ||||
INVESTING ACTIVITIES |
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Expenditures on exploration and evaluation
assets |
(356,769 | ) | (257,064 | ) | ||||
Short-term investments |
1,000,000 | | ||||||
Cash used in investing activities |
643,231 | (257,064 | ) | |||||
FINANCING ACTIVITIES |
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Proceeds on issuance of common shares |
15,000 | 10,000 | ||||||
Cash provided by financing activities |
15,000 | 10,000 | ||||||
Change in cash during the period |
463,121 | (301,659 | ) | |||||
Cash at beginning of period |
278,919 | 661,245 | ||||||
Cash at end of period |
$ | 742,040 | $ | 359,586 | ||||
Supplemental cash flow information (Note 14) |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.1. NATURE AND CONTINUANCE OF OPERATIONS
North American Nickel Inc. (the Company) was incorporated on September 23, 1983, under the laws of the Province of British Columbia, Canada. The head office, principal address and records office of the Company are located at Suite 301 260 West Esplanade, North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, V7M 3G7. The Companys common shares trade on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSX-V) under the symbol NAN.
The Companys principal business activity is the exploration and development of mineral properties in Canada and Greenland. The Company has not yet determined whether any of these properties contain ore reserves that are economically recoverable. The recoverability of carrying amounts shown for exploration and evaluation assets is dependent upon a number of factors including environmental risk, legal and political risk, the existence of economically recoverable mineral reserves, confirmation of the Companys interests in the underlying mineral claims, the ability of the Company to obtain necessary financing to complete exploration and development, and to attain sufficient net cash flow from future profitable production or disposition proceeds.
These condensed financial statements have been prepared on the assumption that the Company will continue as a going concern, meaning it will continue in operation for the foreseeable future and will be able to realize assets and discharge liabilities in the ordinary course of operations. The ability of the Company to continue operations as a going concern is ultimately dependent upon achieving profitable operations. To date, the Company has not generated profitable operations from its resource activities and will need to invest additional funds in carrying out its planned exploration, development and operational activities. These uncertainties may cast significant doubt about the Companys ability to continue as a going concern. These financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.
The exploration and evaluation properties in which the Company currently has an interest are in the exploration stage. As such, the Company is dependent on external financing to fund its activities. In order to carry out the planned exploration and cover administrative costs, the Company will use its existing working capital and raise additional amounts as needed. The Company will continue to assess new properties and seek to acquire interests in additional properties if there is sufficient geologic or economic potential and if adequate financial resources are available to do so.
2. | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND BASIS OF PREPARATION |
The condensed financial statements were approved by the board of directors on May 29, 2014.
Statement of compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards
The condensed financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and interpretations of the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRIC) applicable to the preparation of these financial statements.
Basis of preparation
These condensed financial statements have been prepared on an accrual basis and are based on
historical costs, modified where applicable. The financial statements are presented in Canadian
dollars, unless otherwise noted, which is also the Companys functional currency.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND BASIS OF PREPARATION (contd)
Foreign currency translation
Foreign currency transactions are translated into functional currency using the exchange rates
prevailing at the date of the transaction. Foreign currency monetary items are translated at
the period-end exchange rate. Non-monetary items measured at historical cost continue to be
carried at the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Non-monetary items measured at
fair value are reported at the exchange rate at the date when fair values were determined.
Exchange differences arising on the translation of monetary items or on settlement of monetary items are recognized in profit or loss in the statement of comprehensive income in the period in which they arise, except where deferred in equity as a qualifying cash flow or net investment hedge.
Exchange differences arising on the translation of non-monetary items are recognized in other comprehensive income in the statement of comprehensive income to the extent that gains and losses arising on those non-monetary items are also recognized in other comprehensive income. Where the non-monetary gain or loss is recognized in profit or loss, the exchange component is also recognized in profit or loss.
Exploration and evaluation assets
Exploration and evaluation assets include the costs of acquiring licenses, costs associated
with exploration and evaluation activity, and the fair value (at acquisition date) of
exploration and evaluation assets acquired
in a business combination. Exploration and evaluation expenditures are initially capitalized.
Costs incurred before the Company has obtained the legal rights to explore an area are
recognized in profit or loss.
Government tax credits received are generally recorded as a reduction to the cumulative costs incurred and capitalized on the related property.
Exploration and evaluation assets are assessed for impairment if (i) sufficient data exists to determine technical feasibility and commercial viability, and (ii) facts, events and circumstances suggest that the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount.
Once the technical feasibility and commercial viability of the extraction of mineral resources in an area of interest are demonstrable, exploration and evaluation assets attributable to that area of interest are first tested for impairment and then reclassified to mining property and development assets within equipment.
Recoverability of the carrying amount of any exploration and evaluation assets is dependent on successful development and commercial exploitation, or alternatively, sale of the respective areas of interest.
The Company may occasionally enter into farm-out arrangements, whereby it will transfer part of an interest, as consideration, for an agreement by the farmee to meet certain exploration and evaluation expenditures which would have otherwise been undertaken by the Company. The Company does not record any expenditures made by the farmee on its behalf. Any cash consideration received from the agreement is credited against the costs previously capitalized to the mineral interest given up by the Company, with any excess consideration accounted for in profit.
When a project is deemed to no longer have commercially viable prospects to the Company, exploration and evaluation expenditures in respect of that project are deemed to be impaired. As a result, those exploration and evaluation expenditure costs, in excess of estimated recoveries, are written off to the statement of comprehensive loss/income.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND BASIS OF PREPARATION (contd)
Restoration and environmental obligations
The Company recognizes liabilities for statutory, contractual, constructive or legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-term assets, when those obligations result from the acquisition, construction, development or normal operation of the assets. The net present value of future restoration cost estimates arising from the decommissioning of plant and other site preparation work is capitalized to exploration and evaluation assets along with a corresponding increase in the restoration provision in the period incurred. Discount rates using a pre-tax rate that reflect the time value of money are used to calculate the net present value. The restoration asset will be depreciated on the same basis as other mining assets.
The Companys estimates of restoration costs could change as a result of changes in regulatory requirements, discount rates and assumptions regarding the amount and timing of the future expenditures. These changes are recorded directly to exploration and evaluation assets with a corresponding entry to the restoration provision. The Companys estimates are reviewed annually for changes in regulatory requirements, discount rates, effects of inflation and changes in estimates.
Changes in the net present value, excluding changes in the Companys estimates of reclamation costs, are charged to profit and loss for the period.
The costs of restoration projects included in the provision are recorded against the provision as incurred. The costs to prevent and control environmental impacts at specific properties are capitalized in accordance with the Companys accounting policy for exploration and evaluation assets.
Impairment of assets
Impairment tests on intangible assets with indefinite useful economic lives are undertaken
annually at the financial year-end. Other non-financial assets, including exploration and
evaluation assets are subject to impairment tests whenever events or changes in circumstances
indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. Where the carrying value of an
asset exceeds its recoverable amount, which is the higher of value in use and fair value less
costs to sell, the asset is written down accordingly.
Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the impairment test is carried out on the assets cash-generating unit, which is the lowest group of assets in which the asset belongs and for which there are separately identifiable cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets.
An impairment loss is charged to the profit or loss, except to the extent the loss reverses gains previously recognized in other comprehensive loss/income.
Financial instruments
The Company classifies its financial instruments in the following categories: at fair value through profit or loss, loans and receivables, held-to-maturity investments, available-for-sale and financial liabilities. The classification depends on the purpose for which the financial instruments were acquired. Management determines the classification of its financial instruments at initial recognition.
The Company has classified cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments as financial assets at fair value through profit or loss. Financial assets are classified at fair value through profit or loss when they are either held for trading for the purpose of short-term profit taking, derivatives not held for hedging purposes, or when they are designated as such to avoid an accounting mismatch or to enable performance evaluation where a group of financial assets is managed by key management personnel on a fair value basis in
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND BASIS OF PREPARATION (contd)
Financial instruments (contd)
accordance with a documented risk management or investment strategy. Such assets are subsequently measured at fair value with changes in carrying value being included in profit or loss.
The company has classified amounts receivable, deposits, amounts due from related parties, and exploration advances as loans and receivables. Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market and are subsequently measured at amortized cost. They are included in current assets, except for maturities greater than 12 months after the end of the reporting period. These are classified as non-current assets.
Held-to-maturity investments are non-derivative financial assets that have fixed maturities and fixed or determinable payments, and it is the Companys intention to hold these investments to maturity. They are subsequently measured at amortized cost. Held-to-maturity investments are included in non-current assets, except for those which are expected to mature within 12 months after the end of the reporting period.
Available-for-sale financial assets are non-derivative financial assets that are designated as available-for-sale or are not suitable to be classified as financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, loans and receivables or held-to-maturity investments and are subsequently measured at fair value. These are included in current assets. Unrealized gains and losses are recognized in other comprehensive income, except for impairment losses and foreign exchange gains and losses.
The Company has classified its accounts payable and accrued liabilities as other financial liabilities. Subsequent to initial recognition, accounts payable and accrued liabilities are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method.
Regular purchases and sales of financial assets are recognized on the trade-date the date on which the group commits to purchase the asset.
Financial assets are derecognized when the rights to receive cash flows from the investments have expired or have been transferred and the Company has transferred substantially all risks and rewards of ownership.
At each reporting date, the Company assesses whether there is objective evidence that a financial instrument has been impaired. In the case of available-for-sale financial instruments, a significant and prolonged decline in the value of the instrument is considered to determine whether an impairment has arisen.
Loss per share
The Company uses the treasury stock method to compute the dilutive effect of options, warrants and similar instruments. Under this method the dilutive effect on loss per common share is recognized on the use of the proceeds that could be obtained upon exercise of options, warrants and similar instruments. It assumes that the proceeds would be used to purchase common shares at the average market price during the period.
Basic loss per common share is calculated using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period and does not include outstanding options and warrants. Dilutive loss per common share is not presented differently from basic loss per share as the conversion of outstanding stock options and warrants into common shares would be anti-dilutive.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND BASIS OF PREPARATION (contd)
Income taxes
Income tax expense comprises current and deferred tax. Current tax and deferred tax are
recognized in net income except to the extent that it arises in a business combination, or from
items recognized directly in equity or other comprehensive loss/income.
Current income tax assets and liabilities for the current period are measured at the amount expected to be recovered from or paid to the taxation authorities. The tax rates and tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted, at the reporting date, in the countries where the Company operates and generates taxable income.
Current income tax relating to items recognized directly in other comprehensive income or equity is recognized in other comprehensive income or equity and not in profit or loss. Management periodically evaluates positions taken in the tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulations are subject to interpretation and establishes provisions where appropriate.
Deferred income tax is provided using the asset and liability method of temporary differences at the reporting date between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes.
The carrying amount of deferred income tax assets is reviewed at the end of each reporting period and recognized only to the extent that it is probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the deferred income tax asset to be utilized.
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply to the year when the asset is realized or the liability is settled, based on tax rates and tax laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period.
Deferred income tax assets and deferred income tax liabilities are offset, only if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current tax assets against current income tax liabilities and the deferred income taxes relate to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority.
Share-based payments
Where equity-settled share options are awarded to employees, the fair value of the options at
the date of grant is charged to the statement of comprehensive loss over the vesting period.
Performance vesting conditions are taken into account by adjusting the number of equity
instruments expected to vest at each reporting date so that, ultimately, the cumulative amount
recognized over the vesting period is based on the number of options that eventually vest.
Non-vesting conditions and market vesting conditions are factored into the fair value of the
options granted. As long as all other vesting conditions are satisfied, a charge is made
irrespective of whether these vesting conditions are satisfied. The cumulative expense is not
adjusted for failure to achieve a market vesting condition or where a non-vesting condition is
not satisfied.
Where the terms and conditions of options are modified before they vest, the increase in the fair value of the options, measured immediately before and after the modification, is also charged to the statement of comprehensive loss over the remaining vesting period.
Where equity instruments are granted to employees, they are recorded at the fair value of the equity instrument granted at the grant date. The grant date fair value is recognized in comprehensive loss over the vesting period, described as the period during which all the vesting conditions are to be satisfied.
2. | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND BASIS OF PREPARATION (contd) |
Share-based payments (contd)
Where equity instruments are granted to non-employees, they are recorded at the fair value of
the goods or services received in the statement of comprehensive loss, unless they are related
to the issuance of shares. Amounts related to the issuance of shares are recorded as a
reduction of share capital.
When the value of goods and services received in exchange for the share-based payment cannot be reliably estimated, the fair value is measured by use of a valuation model. The expected life used in the model is adjusted, based on managements best estimate, for the effects of non-transferability, exercise restrictions, and behavioural considerations.
All equity-settled share based payments are reflected in share-based payments reserve, until exercised. Upon exercise shares are issued from treasury and the amount reflected in share-based payments reserve is credited to share capital along with any consideration paid.
Where a grant of options is cancelled or settled during the vesting period, excluding forfeitures when vesting conditions are not satisfied, the Company immediately accounts for the cancellation as an acceleration of vesting and recognizes the amount that otherwise would have been recognized for services received over the remainder of the vesting period. Any payment made to an employee on the cancellation is accounted for as the repurchase of an equity interest except to the extent the payment exceeds the fair value of the equity instrument granted, measured at the repurchase date. Any such excess is recognized as an expense.
Share capital
Financial instruments issued by the Company are classified as equity only to the extent that
they do not meet the definition of a financial liability or financial asset. The Companys
common shares, preferred shares, share warrants and flow-through shares are classified as
equity instruments.
Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options are shown in equity as a deduction from the proceeds.
Proceeds received on the issuance of units, consisting of common shares and warrants are allocated to share capital.
Flow-through shares
The Company will from time to time, issue flow-through common shares to finance a portion of its Canadian exploration program. Pursuant to the terms of the flow-through share agreements, these shares transfer the tax deductibility of qualifying resource expenditures to investors. On issuance, the Company bifurcates the flow-through share into i) a flow-through share premium, equal to the estimated premium, if any, investors pay for the flow-through feature, which is recognized as a liability and; ii) share capital. Upon expenses being incurred, the Company derecognizes the liability and recognizes a deferred tax liability for the amount of tax reduction renounced to the shareholders. The premium is offset from the flow-through proceeds and the related deferred tax is recognized as a tax provision.
Proceeds received from the issuance of flow-through shares are restricted to be used only for Canadian resource property exploration expenditures within a two-year period.
The Company may also be subject to a Part XII.6 tax on flow-through proceeds renounced under the Look-back Rule, in accordance with Government of Canada flow-through regulations. When applicable, this tax is accrued as a financial expense until paid.
2. | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND BASIS OF PREPARATION (contd) |
Equipment
Equipment is stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment
losses.
Subsequent costs are included in the assets carrying amount or recognized as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the Company and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. The carrying amount of a significant replaced part is derecognized. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to the statement of income and comprehensive income during the financial period in which they are incurred. Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the proceeds with the carrying amount and are recognized in profit or loss.
Depreciation and amortization are calculated on a straight-line method to charge the cost, less residual value, of the assets to their residual values over their estimated useful lives. The depreciation and amortization rate applicable to each category of equipment is as follows:
Equipment | Depreciation rate | |
Exploration equipment Computer software |
20% 50% |
Short-term Investments
Short-term investments are comprised of highly liquid Canadian dollar denominated guaranteed
investment certificates (GIC) and bonds with terms to maturity of greater than three months,
but no more than one year.
3. | ACCOUNTING STANDARDS, AMENDMENTS AND INTERPRETATIONS NOT YET EFFECTIVE |
The Company has not early adopted the following revised standards and is currently assessing the impact that these standards will have on its future financial statements.
Other accounting standards or amendments to existing accounting standards that have been issued but have future effective dates are either not applicable or are not expected to have a significant impact on the Companys financial statements.
New standard IFRS 9 Financial Instruments
This standard addresses classification and measurement of financial assets and replaces the
multiple category and measurement models in IAS 39 for debt instruments with a new mixed
measurement model having only two categories: Amortized cost and fair value through profit or
loss. IFRS 9 also replaces the models for measuring equity instruments and such instruments are
either recognized at the fair value through profit or loss or at fair value through other
comprehensive income. Where such equity instruments are measured at fair value through other
comprehensive income, dividends are recognized in profit or loss to the extent not clearly
representing a return of investment: however, other gains and losses (including impairments)
associated with such instruments remain in accumulated other comprehensive income indefinitely.
Requirements for financial liabilities were added in October 2010 which mainly carried forward existing requirements in IAS 39, Financial Instruments Recognition and Measurement, except that fair value changes due to credit risk for liabilities designated at fair value through profit and loss would generally be recorded in other comprehensive income. This new standard is a partial replacement of IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. The effective date of IFRS 9 has not been specified.
4. USE OF ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. The preparation of the financial statements also requires management to exercise judgment in the process of applying the accounting policies.
On an on-going basis, management evaluates its judgements and estimates in relation to assets, liabilities and expenses. Management uses historical experience and various other factors it believes to be reasonable under the circumstances, as the basis for its judgments and estimates. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised prospectively from the period in which the estimates are revised. Actual outcomes may differ from those estimates.
Critical Accounting Estimate
The following is the key estimate and assumption uncertainty that has a significant risk of resulting in a material adjustment within the next financial year.
Share-based payment transactions
The Company measures the cost of equity-settled transactions with employees by reference to the
fair value of the equity instruments at the date at which they are granted. Estimating fair
value for share-based payment transactions requires determining an appropriate valuation model,
which is dependent on the terms and conditions of the grant. This estimate also requires
determining appropriate inputs to the valuation model including the expected life of the share
option, volatility and dividend yield and making assumptions about them. The assumptions and
models used for estimating fair value for share-based payment transactions are disclosed in Note
12.
Critical Judgments Used in Applying Accounting Policies
Restoration provisions |
Managements best estimates regarding the restoration provisions are based on the current economic environment. Changes in estimates of contamination, restoration standards and restoration activities result in changes to provisions from period to period. Actual restoration provisions will ultimately depend on future market prices for future restoration obligations. Management has determined that the Company does not have any significant restoration obligations as at March 31, 2014.
Going concern
Financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis unless management either intends to
liquidate the Company or to cease trading, or has no realistic alternative to do so. Assessment
of the Companys ability to continue as a going concern requires the consideration of all
available information about the future, which is at least, but not limited to, twelve months from
the end of the reporting period. This information includes estimates of future cash flows and
other factors, the outcome of which is uncertain. When management is aware, in making its
assessment, of material uncertainties related to events or conditions that may cast significant
doubt upon the Companys ability to continue as a going concern those uncertainties are
disclosed. Management has determined that disclosure is not required in these statements.
4. USE OF ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS (contd)
Exploration and evaluation expenditures
The application of the Companys accounting policy for exploration and evaluation expenditures
requires judgment in determining whether it is likely that future economic benefits will flow to
the Company, which may be based on assumptions about future events or circumstances.
Management is required to assess impairment in respect of exploration and evaluation assets. The triggering events for exploration and evaluation asset impairment are defined in IFRS 6 Exploration and Evaluation of Mineral Resources and are as follows:
| the period for which the entity has the right to explore in the specific area has expired during the period or will expire in the near future, and is not expected to be renewed; |
| substantive expenditure on further exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources in the specific area is neither budgeted nor planned; |
| exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources in the specific area have not led to the discovery of commercially viable quantities of mineral resources and the entity has decided to discontinue such activities in the specific area; |
| sufficient data exist to indicate that, although a development in the specific area is likely to proceed, the carrying amount of the exploration and evaluation asset is unlikely to be recovered in full from successful development or by sale. |
Assumptions made may change if new information becomes available. If, after the expenditure is capitalized, information becomes available suggesting that the recovery of the expenditure is unlikely, the amount capitalized is written off in the statement of operations in the period the new information becomes available.
Income taxes
The Company recognizes deferred tax assets relating to tax losses carried forward to the extent
there are sufficient taxable temporary differences (deferred tax liabilities) relating to the
same taxation authority and the same taxable entity against which the unused tax losses can be
utilized. However, utilization of the tax losses also depends on the ability of the taxable
entity to satisfy certain tests at the time the losses are applied.
5. CAPITAL MANAGEMENT
The Company manages its capital structure, which consists of share and working capital, and makes adjustments to it, based on the funds available to the Company, in order to support the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral properties. The Board of Directors does not establish quantitative return on capital criteria for management, but rather relies on the expertise of the Companys management to sustain future development of the business.
Management reviews its capital management approach on an ongoing basis and believes that this approach, given the relative size and nature of the Company, is reasonable.
There were no changes in the Companys approach to capital management during the three months ended March 31, 2014. The Company is not exposed to externally imposed capital requirements.
6. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENT AND RISK MANAGEMENT
All financial instruments are measured in the statement of financial position at fair value except for loans and receivables and other financial liabilities which are measured at amortized cost. Subsequent measurement and changes in fair value will depend on their initial classification, as follows: financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are measured at fair value and changes in fair value are recognized in profit or loss; available-for-sale financial instruments are measured at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in other comprehensive income until the investment is derecognized or impaired at which time the amounts would be recorded in net earnings.
Disclosures about the inputs to financial instrument fair value measurements are made within a hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to fair value measurement.
The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are:
Level 1 Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
Level 2 Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability either directly or indirectly; and
Level 3 Inputs that are not based on observable market data.
The Company has made the following designations of its financial instruments: cash and short-term investments as financial assets at fair value through profit or loss (level 1); receivables as loans and receivables and accounts payable as other financial liabilities. The carrying values of the Companys financial investments, other than its available for sale securities, were a reasonable approximation of fair value. The Company has determined that no adjustments are currently required for transaction costs related to the acquisition of financial assets and financial liabilities that are classified as other than financial assets at fair value through profit or loss.
Risk management is carried out by the Companys management team with guidance from the Board of Directors. The Companys risk exposures and their impact on the Companys financial instruments are summarized below:
a) | Credit Risk |
Credit risk is the risk of an unexpected loss if a customer or third party to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations. The Companys credit risk is primarily attributable to cash, short-term investments and receivables, cash and short-term investments are held with one reputable Canadian chartered bank and are closely monitored by management. Financial instruments included in receivables consist primarily of HST/GST recoverable from the Canadian government and interest earned on investments. Management believes that the credit risk concentration with respect to financial instruments included in cash, short-term investments and receivables is minimal.
b) | Liquidity Risk |
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Companys approach to managing liquidity risk is to ensure that it will have sufficient liquidity to meet liabilities when due. As at March 31, 2014, the Company held cash of $742,040 (December 31, 2013 $278,919), and short-term investments of $5,000,000 (December 31, 2013 $6,000,000) and had current liabilities of $237,184 (December 31, 2013 $36,040). All of the Companys liabilities have contractual maturities of less than 30 days and are subject to normal trade terms.
6. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENT AND RISK MANAGEMENT (contd)
c) | Market Risk |
i) Interest Rate Risk
Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value of future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates. The Company had cash balances and short-term investments, and no interest bearing debt. The Companys current policy is to invest excess cash in investment-grade short-term deposit certificates issued by its banking institutions. The Company periodically monitors the investments it makes and is satisfied with the credit worthiness of its banks. Interest rate risk is minimal.
ii) Foreign Currency Risk
Foreign currency risk is the risk that the fair values of future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because they are denominated in currencies that differ from the respective functional currency. The Company operates in Canada and Greenland and a portion of exploration and evaluation assets are incurred in US dollars, Euros and Danish Krones. The Company has subsequently hedged DKK 17,850,000 at a rate of 4.76 to the period ending May 28, 2014 and paid $150,000 deposit to hold the hedged fund.
The Companys Canadian dollar equivalent of financial assets and liabilities that are denominated in Danish Krones consist of accounts payable of $126,050 (December 31, 2013 $2,767). Based on this net exposure, as at March 31, 2014, a 10% change in the Danish Krone to the Canadian dollar would impact the Companys net loss by $12,605.
iii) Price Risk
The Company is exposed to price risk with respect to commodity prices. Commodity price risk is defined as the potential adverse impact on earnings and economic value due to commodity price movements and volatilities. To mitigate price risk, the Company closely monitors commodity prices of precious metals and the stock market to determine the appropriate course of action to be taken by the Company.
7. | SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS |
Short-term investments are comprised of a highly liquid Canadian dollar denominated guaranteed investment certificate with an initial term to maturity greater than ninety days, but not more than one year, that is readily convertible to a contracted amount of cash. The investment is carried at the lower of cost or market value. The counter-party is a Canadian financial institution. At March 31, 2014, the instrument was yielding an annual interest rate of 1.20% (2013 1.65%). The fair market value of the Companys short-term investment approximates its carrying value at the balance sheet date.
8. | RECEIVABLES |
March 31, | December 31, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
Harmonized and government taxes
receivable |
$ | 8,525 | $ | 9,950 | ||||
Interest receivable |
50,006 | 37,060 | ||||||
$ | 58,531 | $ | 47,010 | |||||
9. | EQUIPMENT |
Exploration | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Equipment | Computer Software | Total | Exploration Equipment | Computer Software | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cost: |
Cost: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
At December 31, 2013 |
$ | 46,674 | $ | 5,360 | $ | 52,034 | At December 31, 2012 | $ | 6,500 | $ | 5,360 | $ | 11,860 | |||||||||||||||
Additions |
| | | Additions | 40,174 | | 40,174 | |||||||||||||||||||||
At March 31, 2014 |
$ | 46,674 | $ | 5,360 | $ | 52,034 | At December 31, 2013 | $ | 46,674 | $ | 5,360 | $ | 52,034 | |||||||||||||||
Amortization: |
Amortization: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
At December 31, 2013 |
$ | 8,998 | $ | 5,360 | $ | 14,358 | At December 31, 2012 | $ | 2,305 | $ | 3,598 | $ | 5,903 | |||||||||||||||
Charge for the year |
2,302 | | 2,302 | Charge for the year | 6,693 | 1,762 | 8,455 | |||||||||||||||||||||
At December |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
At March 31, 2014 |
$11,300 | $ | 5,360 | $ | 16,660 | 31, 2013 | 8,998 | 5,360 | 14,358 | |||||||||||||||||||
Net book value: |
Net book value: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
At December |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
At March 31, 2014 |
$35,374 | $ | - | $ | 35,374 | 31, 2013 | $37,676 | $ | - | $ | 37,676 | |||||||||||||||||
10. | EXPLORATION AND EVALUATION ASSETS |
Canada | Greenland | |||||||||||||||||||
Post Creek Property | Halcyon Property | Maniitsoq Property | Total | |||||||||||||||||
Mineral Properties Acquisition |
||||||||||||||||||||
Balance, December 31, 2013 |
$ | 223,000 | $ | 164,000 | $ | 11,497 | $ | 398,497 | ||||||||||||
Acquisition costs cash |
15,000 | 15,000 | | 30,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Acquisition costs Shares |
| | | | ||||||||||||||||
Impairment |
| | | | ||||||||||||||||
Balance, March 31, 2014 |
238,000 | 179,000 | 11,497 | 428,497 | ||||||||||||||||
Expenditures (recoveries) |
||||||||||||||||||||
Balance, December 31, 2013 |
975,049 | 95,906 | 10,872,163 | 11,943,118 | ||||||||||||||||
Administration |
| | 4,920 | 4,920 | ||||||||||||||||
Assay and sampling
(recovery) |
| | 1,745 | 1,745 | ||||||||||||||||
Consulting services |
400 | | 82,353 | 82,753 | ||||||||||||||||
Drilling expenses (recovery) |
| | 100,000 | 100,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Equipment and supplies |
| 5,209 | 3,030 | 8,239 | ||||||||||||||||
Charter aircraft |
| | 123,631 | 123,631 | ||||||||||||||||
Shipping and printing costs |
| | 3,999 | 3,999 | ||||||||||||||||
Travel and accomodation |
| | 1,483 | 1,483 | ||||||||||||||||
400 | 5,209 | 321,161 | 326,770 | |||||||||||||||||
Balance, March 31, 2014 |
975,449 | 101,115 | 11,193,324 | 12,269,888 | ||||||||||||||||
Total, Balance March 31, 2014 |
$ | 1,213,449 | $ | 280,115 | $ | 11,204,821 | $ | 12,698,385 | ||||||||||||
The following is a description of the Companys exploration and evaluation assets and the related spending commitments:
Post Creek
On December 23, 2009 the Company executed a letter of intent whereby the Company has an option to acquire a mineral claim known as the Post Creek Property located within the Sudbury Mining District of Ontario, and paid a non-refundable deposit of $7,500.
On April 5, 2010 the Company entered into an option agreement to acquire a 100% interest in the Post Creek Property. On March 12, 2013 the Post Creek Property Agreement was amended as indicated in the schedule below. In order to acquire 100% working interests in the property, subject to certain net smelter return royalties (NSR) and advance royalty payments the Company agreed to the amended consideration in the schedule below. Further, commencing the amended date of August 1, 2015, if the Company exercises its option, the
10. EXPLORATION AND EVALUATION ASSETS (contd)
Company will be obligated to pay advances on the NSR of $10,000 per annum, which will be deducted from any payments to be made under the NSR:
Exploration | Date | Cash | Issuance of shares | Requirements | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April |
5, 2010 | $ | 12,500 | 400,000 | paid & issued | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 30,000 | 300,000 | paid & issued | $ | Exploration
|
5, 2011 | 15,000 | requirements to
April 5, 2011
$624,715 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Exploration
requirements to
|
On or before April | $ | April 5, 2012
|
5, 2012 | $ | 50,000 | 300,000 | paid & issued | 15,000 | $830,127 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Exploration
requirements to
|
On or before April | $ | April 5, 2012
|
5, 2013 | $ | 15,000 | | Paid | 15,000 | $830,127 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 5, 2014 | $ | 15,000 | | Paid | 15,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 5, 2015 | $ | 15,000 | | 15,000 |
During the three months ended March 31, 2014, the Company incurred exploration costs totalling $400 (March 31, 2013 $7,960) in deferred exploration costs on the Post Creek Property.
Halcyon
On April 5, 2010 the Company entered into an option agreement to acquire rights to Halcyon
Property. On March 12, 2013 the Halcyon Property Agreement was amended as indicated in the
schedule below. In order to acquire 100% working interests in the property, subject to certain
net smelter return royalties (NSR) and advance royalty payments the Company agreed to the
amended consideration in the schedule below. Further, commencing August 1, 2015, if the Company
exercises its option, the Company will be obligated to pay advances on the NSR of $8,000 per
annum, which will be deducted from any payments to be made under the NSR:
Exploration | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Date | Cash | Issuance of shares | Requirements | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April |
5, 2010 | $ | 15,000 | 300,000 | paid & issued | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 25,000 | 200,000 | paid & issued | $ | Exploration
|
5, 2011 | 22,000 | requirements to
April 5, 2011
$40,299 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 35,000 | 200,000 | paid & issued | $ | Exploration
|
5, 2012 | 22,000 | requirements to
April 5, 2012
$53,985 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 15,000 | | Paid | $ | Exploration
|
5, 2013 | 22,000 | requirements to
April 5, 2012
$53,985 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 5, 2014 | $ | 15,000 | | Paid | 22,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 5, 2015 | $ | 15,000 | | 22,000 |
During the three months ended March 31, 2014, the Company incurred $5,209 (March 31, 2013 - $7,171) in exploration costs on the Halcyon Property.
10. | EXPLORATION AND EVALUATION ASSETS (contd) |
Manitoba Nickel Properties
On April 5, 2010, the Company entered into a purchase and sale agreement, with a company with
directors in common, to acquire a 100% interest in the Thompson North, South Bay and Cedar Lake
properties located in Manitoba, and agreed to consideration of $1,000 cash (paid) and 6,000,000
common shares (issued).The Companys interest is subject to a 2% NSR, of which 1% can be
repurchased by the Company for $1,000,000.
At December 31, 2013, the Company decided not to further pursue the Thompson North property and will allow the claims to lapse.
Maniitsoq
Effective August 15, 2011, the Company was granted an exploration license (the Sulussugut
License) by the Bureau of Minerals and Petroleum (BMP) of Greenland for exclusive
exploration rights of an area located near Sulussugut, Greenland. The Company paid a license
fee of $5,742 (Danish krones (DKK) 31,400) upon granting of the Sulussugut License. The
Sulussugut License is valid for 5 years until December 31, 2015, with December 31, 2011 being
the first year providing the Company meets the terms of the license, which includes that
specified eligible exploration expenditures must be made.
The Company completed the first, second and third year exploration requirements, of a minimum of DKK 40,773,110 (approximately CDN $7,482,000), during the year ended December 31, 2011, 2012, and 2013 by incurring $9,601,284 on the Sulussugut License.
During the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Companys expenditures exceeded the minimum requirement and the Company has a surplus of DKK 17,529,718 (approximately CDN $2,702,000), and the Company was granted a credit for the excess, which may be used towards future expense requirements on the Sulussugut License in years 2013 to 2015.
Under the terms of the Sulussugut License the Company is obligated to reduce the area of the license by at least 30%, which was accomplished by the Company reducing the area by 1,505 square kilometres by December 31, 2013. This amended the minimum required eligible exploration expenditure in 2013 to be DKK 26,197,760.
The required minimum exploration expenditures on the Sulussugut License for years 4 and 5, ending December 31, 2015, have not yet been determined but, are based on an annual approximation of DKK 26,197,760. This assumes that the Sulussugut License area was reduced to 3,336 square kilometers before December 31, 2013 and remains at this size. For every square kilometre that the license is reduced the required annual expenditure decreases by approximately DKK 7,760.
Effective March 4, 2012, the Company was granted an additional exploration license (the Ininngui License) by the BMP of Greenland for exclusive exploration rights of an area located near Ininngui, Greenland. The Company paid a license fee of $5,755 (DKK 32,200) upon granting of the Ininngui License. The Ininngui License is valid for 5 years until December 31, 2016, with December 31, 2012 being the first year. The Ininngui License is contiguous with the Sulussugut License.
During the year ended December 31, 2012 (the first year of the Ininngui License), the Company reported and was granted eligible exploration expenses of DKK 2,871,899. This amount exceeded the required expenses (DKK 360,380) by DKK 2,511,519 (approximately CDN $485,000) and the Company was granted a credit for the excess which may be used towards future expense requirements on the Ininngui License in years 2013 to 2015.
On September 18, 2013 the Ininngui license was enlarged to 265 square kilometers at the Companys request. The required minimum eligible exploration expenses for year 2 on the Ininngui License are DKK 565,950
10. | EXPLORATION AND EVALUATION ASSETS (contd) |
Maniitsoq (contd)
(approximately CDN $104,000). The required minimum exploration expenditures for years 3-5, ending December 31, 2016 have not yet been determined but, are based on an annual approximation of DKK2,366,800 (approximately CDN $433,757).
For both licenses, future required minimum exploration expenditures will be adjusted each year on the basis of the change to the Danish Consumer Price Index.
Should the Company not incur the minimum exploration expenditures on either license in any one
year from years 2-5, the Company may pay 50% of the difference in cash to BMP as full
compensation for that year. This
procedure may not be used for more than 2 consecutive calendar years and to December 31, 2013,
the Company has not used the procedure for either license.
After year 5, the Company may apply for an additional 5 years for either license. Thereafter, the Company may apply for a license for up to 6 additional years, in 2 year license increments. The Company will be required to pay additional license fees and will be obligated to incur minimum exploration costs for such years, which are yet to be determined.
The Company may terminate the licenses at any time; however any unfulfilled obligations according to the licenses will remain in force, regardless of the termination.
As of March 31, 2014, the Company has spent $9,921,517 on exploration costs for the Sulussugut License (December 31, 2013 $9,601,284) and the Company has spent $1,271,806 on exploration costs for the Ininngui License (December 31, 2013 $1,270,880).
The property is subject to a 2.5% NSR. The Company can reduce the NSR to 1% by paying $2,000,000 on or before 60 days from the decision to commence commercial production.
11. TRADE PAYABLES AND ACCRUED LIABILITIES
March 31, | December 31, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
Trade payables |
$ | 137,852 | $ | 9,897 | ||||
Amounts due to related parties (Note
13) |
79,082 | 5,894 | ||||||
Accrued liabilities |
20,249 | 20,249 | ||||||
$ | 237,184 | $ | 36,040 | |||||
12. SHARE CAPITAL
a) | The authorized capital of the Company comprises an unlimited number of common shares without par value and 100,000,000 Series 1 convertible preferred shares without par value. |
b) Common shares issued and outstanding
Three month period ended March 31, 2013:
The Company issued 100,000 common shares for a stock option exercise at $0.15 per share for proceeds of $15,000.
c) Preferred shares issued and outstanding
At March 31, 2014, there are 604,724 (December 31, 2013 604,724) series 1 preferred shares outstanding.
The rights and restrictions of the preferred shares are as follows:
i) dividends shall be paid at the discretion of the directors;
ii) | the holders of the preferred shares are not entitled to vote except at meetings of the holders of the preferred shares, where they are entitled to one vote for each preferred share held; |
iii) | the shares are convertible at any time after 6 months from the date of issuance, upon the holder serving the Company with 10 days written notice; and |
iv) | the number of the common shares to be received on conversion of the preferred shares is to be determined by dividing the conversion value of the share, $1 per share, by $0.90. |
d) | Warrants |
A continuity schedule of outstanding common share purchase warrants at March 31, 2014 is as follows:
March 31, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | |||||||||||||||
Weighted Average | Weighted Average | |||||||||||||||
Number Outstanding | Exercise Price | Number Outstanding | Exercise Price | |||||||||||||
Outstanding, beginning of |
$ | $ | ||||||||||||||
year |
25,431,146 | 0.46 | 23,060,000 | 0.49 | ||||||||||||
Granted |
| | 20,747,345 | 0.21 | ||||||||||||
Cancelled/ Expired |
| | | | ||||||||||||
Exercised |
| | (18,376,199 | ) | 0.21 | |||||||||||
$ | $ | |||||||||||||||
Outstanding, end of period |
25,431,146 | 0.46 | 25,431,146 | 0.46 | ||||||||||||
At March 31, 2014, the Company had outstanding common share purchase warrants exercisable to acquire common shares of the Company as follows:
11. | SHARE CAPITAL (contd) |
d) Warrants (contd)
Warrants Outstanding | Expiry Date
|
Exercise Price | Weighted Average remaining contractual life (in years) |
|||||||||
3,460,000 | August 30, 2016
|
$ | 1.00 | 2.42 | ||||||||
4,750,000 | August 30, 2016
|
$ | 0.50 | 2.42 | ||||||||
4,750,000 | August 30, 2016
|
$ | 0.70 | 2.42 | ||||||||
6,588,794 | April 19, 2015
|
$ | 0.21 | 1.05 | ||||||||
1,376,780 | April 22, 2015
|
$ | 0.21 | 1.06 | ||||||||
4,505,572 | June 18, 2015
|
$ | 0.21 | 1.22 | ||||||||
25,431,146 | 1.78 | |||||||||||
e) Stock options
The Company adopted a Stock Option Plan (the Plan), providing the authority to grant options to directors, officers, employees and consultants enabling them to acquire up to 10% of the issued and outstanding common stock of the Company. Under the Plan, the exercise price of each option equals the market price or a discounted price of the Companys stock as calculated on the date of grant. The options can be granted for a maximum term of 10 years.
The changes in stock options during the three months ended March 31, 2014 are as follows: |
March 31, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | |||||||||||||||
Weighted Average | Weighted Average | |||||||||||||||
Number Outstanding | Exercise Price | Number Outstanding | Exercise Price | |||||||||||||
Outstanding, beginning |
$ | $ | ||||||||||||||
of year |
8,087,500 | 0.17 | 7,383,000 | 0.15 | ||||||||||||
Granted |
| | 850,000 | 0.21 | ||||||||||||
Cancelled/ Expired |
| | | | ||||||||||||
Exercised |
(100,000 | ) | 0.15 | (145,500 | ) | 0.18 | ||||||||||
$ | $ | |||||||||||||||
Outstanding, end of year |
7,987,500 | 0.17 | 8,087,500 | 0.17 | ||||||||||||
There were no options granted during the period ended March 31, 2014 and the weighted average fair value of options granted during the period ended December 31, 2013 was $0.21 per option. Details of options outstanding as at March 31, 2014 are as follows: |
12. | SHARE CAPITAL (contd) |
e) Stock options (contd)
Options Outstanding | Options Exercisable | Expiry Date
|
Exercise Price | Weighted Average remaining contractual life (in years) |
||||
2,828,00 0 |
2,828,000 |
August 27, 2015 |
$0.10 |
1.41 |
||||
140, 000 |
140,000 |
November 25, 2015 |
$0.10 |
1.65 |
||||
200, 000 |
200,000 |
December 8, 2015 |
$0.10 |
1.69 |
||||
150, 000 |
150,000 |
May 24, 2016 |
$0.20 |
2.15 |
||||
250, 000 |
250,000 |
June 29, 2016 |
$0.20 |
2.25 |
||||
1,300,00 0 |
1,300,000 |
September 6, 2016 |
$0.25 |
2.44 |
||||
100, 000 |
100,000 |
November 24, 2016 |
$0.15 |
2.65 |
||||
200, 000 |
200,000 |
January 18, 2017 |
$0.15 |
2.81 |
||||
2,015,00 0 |
2,015,000 |
August 13, 2017 |
$0.24 |
3.37 |
||||
254, 500 |
254,500 |
January 15, 2018 |
$0.15 |
3.80 |
||||
200, 000 |
200,000 |
April 22, 2018 |
$0.15 |
4.06 |
||||
150, 000 |
150,000 |
July 29, 2018 |
$0.20 |
4.33 |
||||
200, 000 |
200,000 |
September 30, 2018 |
$0.37 |
4.50 |
||||
7,987,50 0 |
7,987,500 |
2.25 |
||||||
During the three months ended March 31, 2014, the Company did not grant any stock options (December 31, 2013 850,000). The Company calculates the fair value of all stock options using the Black-Scholes option pricing model which at the period ending March 31, 2014 was $nil (December 31, 2013 $178,231). The Company reversed a stock-based compensation amount of $27,679 for the exercise of 100,000 stock options @ $0.15 per unit (December 31, 2013 $29,140).
f) | Share-based payment reserve |
The share-based payment reserve records items recognized as stock-based compensation expense and other share-based payments until such time that the stock options or warrants are exercised, at which time the corresponding amount will be transferred to share capital. Amounts recorded for forfeited or expired unexercised options and warrants are transferred to deficit. During the three months ended March 31, 2014, the Company transferred $Nil (December 31, 2013 $Nil) for forfeited options and $Nil (December 31, 2013 $Nil) for expired unexercised warrants to deficit.
13. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Related party balances The following amounts due to related parties are included in trade payables and accrued liabilities:
March 31, | December 31, | |||
2014 | 2013 | |||
VMS Ventures Inc. (shared administrative costs) |
$79,082 |
$5,894 |
||
13. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (contd) |
||||
These amounts are unsecured, non-interest bearing and have no fixed terms of repayment.
Related party transactions
During the three months ended March 31, 2014, the Company recorded $2,700 (March 31, 2013 - $2,700) in rent expense to VMS Ventures Inc. a company related through common directors, which is included in general and administrative expense.
Related party transactions Key management personnel compensation:
Period ended | ||||||||
March 31, | March 31, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
Geological consulting fees expensed |
$ | 23,160 | $ | 18,000 | ||||
Geological consulting fees -
capitalized |
14,189 | | ||||||
Management fees expensed |
36,000 | 27,000 | ||||||
Salaries expensed |
16,500 | | ||||||
Stock-based compensation |
| | ||||||
$ | 89,849 | $ | 45,000 | |||||
14. | NON-CASH TRANSACTIONS | |||
The Company did not incur any non-cash financing and investing activities during the three months ended March 31, 2014 and March 31, 2013. |
||||
15. | COMMITMENTS |
|||
Effective May 1, 2010, the Company entered into the following agreements for services with directors of the Company and a company in which a director has an interest: |
i) | management fees: $4,000 per month; and $8,000 per month, as amended April 1, 2013 and |
ii) | consulting fees: $6,000 per month, as amended effective June 1, 2011 |
Each of the agreements shall be continuous and may only be terminated by mutual agreement of the parties, subject to the provisions that in the event there is a change of effective control of the Company, the party shall have the right to terminate the agreement, within sixty days from the date of such change of effective control, upon written notice to the Company. Within thirty days from the date of delivery of such notice, the Company shall forward to the party the amount of money due and owing to the party hereunder to the extent accrued to the effective date of termination.
16. SEGMENTED INFORMATION
The Company operates in one reportable operating segment being that of the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral properties in two geographic segments being Canada and Greenland (Note 10). The Companys geographic segments are as follows:
March 31, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | |||||||
Total Assets
|
||||||||
Canada
|
$ | 7,511,618 | $ | 7,832,258 | ||||
Greenland
|
11,204,821 | 10,883,661 | ||||||
$ | 18,716,439 | $ | 18,715,919 | |||||
March 31, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | |||||||
Exploration and evaluation assets |
||||||||
Canada
|
$ | 1,493,564 | $ | 1,457,955 | ||||
Greenland
|
11,204,821 | 10,883,661 | ||||||
$ | 12,698,385 | $ | 12,341,616 | |||||
March 31, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | |||||||
Total Liabilities
|
||||||||
Canada
|
$ 111,134 |
$ 33,273 |
||||||
Greenland
|
126,050 | 2,767 | ||||||
$ 237,184 |
$ 36,040 |
|||||||
March 31, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | |||||||
Total Loss
|
||||||||
Canada
|
$ | (215,624 | ) | $ | (1,260,301 | ) | ||
Greenland
|
- | | ||||||
$ | (215,624 | ) | $ | (1,260,301 | ) | |||
17. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On April 17, 2014, the Company issued 294,117 common shares for a warrant exercise at $0.21 per share for proceeds of $61,765.
On April 29, 2014, the Company issued 100,000 common shares for a stock option exercise at $0.15 per share for proceeds of $15,000.
On May 16, 2014, the Company issued 50,000 common shares for a stock option exercise at $0.24 per share for proceeds of $12,000.
On May 29, 2014, the Company closed a private placement of 28,424,152 shares at a price of $0.33 per share for proceeds of $9,379,970. In lieu of cash, 50,000 shares were issued as finders fees.
NORTH AMERICAN NICKEL INC.
Management Discussion and Analysis
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
Preliminary Information
This Managements Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) contains information up to and including May 29, 2014.
The following MD&A of North American Nickel Inc. (the Company) should be read in conjunction with the condensed interim financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and the related notes contained therein. It should be noted that the audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013 were prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
All financial information in this MD&A related to the period ending March 31, 2014 have been prepared in accordance with International financial reporting standards (IFRS), and all dollar amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated.
Caution Regarding Forward Looking Statements
Statements contained in this MD&A that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements (within the meaning of the Canadian securities legislation and the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the future price of metals; the estimation of mineral reserves and resources, the realization of mineral reserve estimates; the timing and amount of estimated future production, costs of production, and capital expenditures; costs and timing of the development of new deposits; success of exploration activities, permitting time lines, currency fluctuations, requirements for additional capital, government regulation of mining operations, environmental risks, unanticipated reclamation expenses, title disputes or claims, limitations on insurance coverage and the timing and possible outcome of pending litigation. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as plans, expects or does not expect, is expected, budget, scheduled, estimates, forecasts, intends, anticipates or does not anticipate, or believes, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might or will be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors include, among others, risks related to the integration of acquisitions; risks related to operations; risks related to joint venture operations; actual results of current exploration activities; actual results of current reclamation activities; conclusions of economic evaluations; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; future prices of metals; possible variations in ore reserves, grade or recovery rates; failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; delays in obtaining governmental approvals or financing or in the completion of development or construction activities, as well as those factors discussed in the sections entitled Risks and Uncertainties in this MD&A. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could affect the Company and may cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this MD&A speak only as of the date hereof. The Company does not undertake any obligation to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
Forward-looking statements and other information contained herein concerning the mining industry and general expectations concerning the mining industry are based on estimates prepared by the Company using data from publicly available industry sources as well as from market research and industry analysis and on assumptions based on data and knowledge of this industry which the Company believes to be reasonable. However, this data is inherently imprecise, although generally indicative of relative market positions, market shares and performance characteristics. While the Company is not aware of any misstatements regarding any industry data presented herein, the industry involves risks and uncertainties and is subject to change based on various factors.
Description of Business
The Company is a mineral exploration and resource development company engaged in the business of acquiring, exploring and evaluating mineral properties, and either joint venturing, developing or disposing of the properties, when the evaluation is complete. The Company is currently focusing its resources in conducting exploration programs on its Maniitsoq Property, in Greenland and Sudbury, Ontario nickel properties being Post Creek and Halcyon.
Company History
North American Nickel Inc. (the Company) was incorporated under the laws of the Province of British Columbia, Canada, by filing of Memorandum and Articles of Association on September 20, 1983, under the name Rainbow Resources Ltd. The companys name was changed to Widescope Resources Ltd. on May 1, 1984, and to Gemini Technology Inc. on September 17, 1985. In conjunction with a reverse split of its common shares on a five-old for one-new basis, the Company adopted the name International Gemini Technology Inc effective September 23, 1993. The Companys name was changed to Widescope Resources Inc., effective July 12, 2006. Effective April 19, 2010 the Companys shareholders approved a special resolution to reorganize the Companys capital structure by consolidating in a reverse stock split the existing common shares on the basis of each two (2) old shares being equal to one (1) new share and concurrently increasing the authorized capital of the Company from 100,000,000 common shares without par value to an unlimited number of common shares without par value. Also effective this date the Companys name was changed to North American Nickel Inc. to reflect its new focus. All references to common shares, stock options, warrants and weighted average number of shares outstanding in this discussion and the accompanying consolidated financial statements retroactively reflect the share consolidation unless otherwise noted.
In April 2010 the Company initiated a series of actions to realign its focus into the field of nickel exploration in the prolific nickel belts around Sudbury, Ontario and Thompson, Manitoba. These actions were reported in a news release dated April 6, 2010. Additionally, in April 2010 the Companys shareholders elected 4 new directors, to replace three retiring directors. The directors of the Company have appointed new senior management to oversee the daily operations of the Company.
On May 3, 2011 the Companys listing application was conditionally accepted by the TSX-V Venture Exchange. On May 30, 2011 the common shares of the Company began trading under the symbol NAN.
On August 15, 2011 the Company was granted an exploration license by the Bureau of Minerals and Petroleum of Greenland for exclusive exploration rights over an area totalling 4,841 square kilometres located near Sulussugut, Greenland.
On March 4, 2012, the Company was granted an additional exploration license by the Bureau of Minerals and Petroleum of Greenland for exclusive exploration rights over an area covering a total of 142 square kilometres license and located near Ininngui, Greenland.
Trend Analysis
The business of the Company entails significant risks. Any analysis of the trend of the
Companys activities would reveal this and there is nothing to suggest that these trends will
change.
The recoverability of amounts shown for mineral property costs is dependent upon a number of factors including environmental risk, legal and political risk, the existence of economically recoverable mineral reserves, confirmation of the Companys interests in the underlying mineral claims, the ability of the Company to obtain necessary financing to complete exploration and development, and to attain sufficient net cash flow from future profitable production or disposition proceeds. As of March 31, 2014 the Company had working capital of $5,745,497 (December 31, 2013 $6,300,587) and a deficit of $18,189,747 (December 31, 2013 $16,974,123). The Company will require additional funding to meet its obligations and the costs of its operations.
When managing capital, the Companys objective is to ensure the entity continues as a going concern as well as to maintain optimal returns to shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders. Management adjusts the capital structure as necessary in order to support the acquisition and exploration of mineral properties. The Board of Directors does not establish quantitative return on capital criteria for management, but rather relies on the expertise of the Companys management team to manage its capital.
The properties in which the Company currently has an interest are in the exploration stage. As such, the Company is dependent on external financing to fund its activities. In order to carry out the planned exploration and pay for administrative costs, the Company will spend its existing working capital and raise additional amounts as needed. The Company will continue to assess new properties and seek to acquire interests in additional properties if there is sufficient geologic or economic potential and if it has adequate financial resources are available to do so. The Company has not yet determined whether these properties contain ore reserves that are economically recoverable.
Resource Properties
All technical information in this document has been reviewed by Dr. Mark Fedikow, P. Geo, the qualified person for the Company under National Instrument 43-101.
Maniitsoq, Greenland:
The project is located adjacent to the coastline 160 km north of Nuuk, the capital of Greenland (a safe, stable, mining-friendly jurisdiction) and covers numerous high-grade nickel-copper & PGM sulphide occurrences associated with norite and other mafic-ultramafic intrusions. The deep water coastline adjacent to Maniitsoq is typical to that of Greenlands south west coast being pack ice free and having an all year-round shipping season. The year-round shipping conditions are due to the Irmenger current, a tributary of the warming Gulf Stream flowing continuously past the south west coastline of Greenland. The Company acquired the project because it believes that modern, time-domain, helicopter EM systems will be more effective at detecting nickel sulphide deposits in the rugged terrain of Maniitsoq than previous geophysical surveys performed in the 1990s that failed to produce any drill targets. Helicopter TEM systems were not available in 1990s and their availability now gives the Company a significant advantage over previous explorers.
Effective August 15, 2011, the Company was granted an exploration license (the Sulussugut License) by the Bureau of Minerals and Petroleum (BMP) of Greenland for exclusive exploration rights over an area totalling 4,841 square kilometres located near Sulussugut, Greenland. The Company paid a license fee of Danish krones (DKK) 31,400 upon granting of the Sulussugut License. The Sulussugut License is valid for 5 years until December 31, 2015, with December 31, 2011 being the first year providing the Company meets the terms of the license, which includes that specified eligible exploration expenditures must be made.
During the year ended December 31, 2011 (the first year of the Sulussugut License), the Company reported and was granted eligible exploration expenses of DKK 8,489,457. This amount exceeded the required expenses (DKK 7,213,460) by DKK 1,275,997 and the Company was granted a credit for the excess which may be used towards future expense requirements on the Sulussugut License in years 2012 to 2014.
During the year ended December 31, 2012 (the second year of the Sulussugut License), the Company reported and was granted eligible exploration expenses of DKK 23,615,611 by the Greenland BMP. This amount exceeded the required expenses (DKK 7,361,890) by DKK 16,253,721 and the Company was granted a credit for the excess, which may be used towards future expense requirements on the Sulussugut License in years 2013 to 2015.
Under the terms of the Sulussugut License the Company is obligated to reduce the area of the license by at least 30% (1,452 square kilometres) by December 31, 2013. The Company completed this prior to year-end. The minimum required eligible exploration expenditure in 2013 will be DKK 26,609,040.
The required minimum exploration expenditures on the Sulussugut License for years 4 and 5, ending December 31, 2015, have not yet been determined but, are based on an annual approximation of DKK 26,609,040.
Effective March 4, 2012, the Company was granted an additional exploration license (the Ininngui License) by the BMP of Greenland for exclusive exploration rights over an area covering a total of 142 square kilometres license and located near Ininngui, Greenland. The Company paid a license fee of DKK 32,200 upon granting of the Ininngui License. The Ininngui License is valid for 5 years until December 31, 2016, with December 31, 2012 being the first year. The Ininngui License is contiguous with the Sulussugut License.
During the year ended December 31, 2012 (the first year of the Ininngui License), the Company reported and was granted eligible exploration expenses of DKK 2,871,899. This amount exceeded the required expenses (DKK 360,380) by DKK 2,511,519 and the Company was granted a credit for the excess which may be used towards future expense requirements on the Ininngui License in years 2013 to 2015.
On September 28, 2013 the Ininngui license was enlarged to 265 square kilometres at the Companys request. The required minimum eligible exploration expenses for year 2 on the Ininngui License are DKK 565,950. The required minimum exploration expenditures for years 3-5, ending December 31, 2016 have not yet been determined but, are based on an annual approximation of DKK 2,366,800.
For both licenses, future required minimum eligible exploration expenses will be adjusted each year on the basis of the change to the Danish Consumer Price Index.
Should the Company not incur the minimum eligible exploration expenses on either license in any one year from years 2-5, the Company may pay 50% of the difference in cash to BMP as full compensation for that year. This procedure may not be used for more than 2 consecutive calendar years and to December 31, 2012, the Company has not used the procedure for either license.
After year 5, the Company may apply for an additional 5 years for either license. Thereafter, the Company may apply for a license for up to 6 additional years, in 2 year license increments. The Company will be required to pay additional license fees and will be obligated to incur minimum eligible exploration expenses for such years.
The Company may terminate the licenses at any time; however any unfulfilled obligations according to the license will remain in force, regardless of the termination.
In conjunction with the granting of the Sulussugut Licence, the Company has entered into an arms length Intellectual Property and Data Acquisition Agreement (the IP Acquisition Agreement) with Hunter Minerals Pty Limited (Hunter) and Spar Resources Pty Limited (Spar). Pursuant to the IP Acquisition Agreement, Hunter and Spar agreed to sell the IP Rights to the Company in consideration for the Company paying $300,000 in cash ($150,000 to each of Hunter and Spar which is paid) and the issuing of 12,960,000 share purchase warrants, 6,480,000 to each of Hunter and Spar exercisable for a period of five years. The warrants are exercisable at the following prices, 4,750,000 of the warrants are at a price of $0.50 per share, 4,750,000 of the warrants are at a price of $0.70 per share and 3,460,000 of the warrants are at a price of $1.00 per share. The warrants are subject to an accelerated exercise provision in the event the Company relinquishes its interests in the Maniitsoq Licenses or any other mineral titles held within a defined area of interest without receiving consideration for such relinquishment. The granted warrants have been recorded at a fair value of $1,813,263 using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. Granting to each of Hunter and Spar or their designates a 1.25% net smelter returns royalty, subject to rights of NAN to reduce both royalties to a 0.5% net smelter returns royalty upon payment to each of Hunter and Spar (or their designates) of $1,000,000 on or before the 60th day following a decision to commence commercial production on the mineral properties. On August 30, 2011 the Company issued 200,000 common shares at $0.14 per share for a value of $28,000 as a finders fee on the Greenland project.
Performance Summary:
In August 2011, known showings and targets, identified from a compilation of historical data, were examined by a team of two to three geologists plus a field assistant. A total of 54 representative rock samples were collected and submitted to Activation Laboratories for analysis. Drill cores from several Kyrolitselskabet Oresund A/S drill holes were examined at a government core facility in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland. Rock samples from previously known occurrences assayed up to 3.35% Ni and confirmed previous sampling results by Kyrolitselskabet Øresund A/S (1965-71, Cominco Ltd. (1995-96) and Falconbridge Greenland A/S (1993-2000).
Based on historical data and observations made during the field program, two areas, covering a total of 375 square kilometres, were selected for helicopter geophysical (electromagnetic and magnetic) surveying. SkyTEM ApS of Beder, Denmark was contracted to do the surveying, which commenced on September 17, 2011 and was completed on October 5, 2011. A total of 2,217 line-kilometers were flown. The quality of the data was monitored on a daily basis during the course of the survey by Condor Consulting of Lakewood, Colorado. A levelled, digital database was received from SkyTEM on November 17, 2011 and a complete logistical and processing report was received on December 6, 2011. Condor Consulting picked electromagnetic anomalies from the dataset. A total of 25 conductive zones, some corresponding to known nickel sulphide mineralization, were identified.
On December 27, 2011 the Company applied for a mineral exploration license covering approximately 142 square kilometers contiguous with its original license (2011/54).
In January and February 2012, Condor Consulting modeled 18 of the 25 conductive zones identified by the 2011 SkyTEM survey in three dimensions using Electromagnetic Imaging Technologys Maxwell software package. Three of the eighteen modelled targets were selected for priority follow-up during the 2012 field season ahead of the first drill program on the property by the Company.
From June 7, 2012 to July 18, 2012 a helicopter electromagnetic survey, totaling 3,532 line-kilometers, was flown over portions of mineral exploration licences 2011/54 and 2012/28. The survey was performed by Geotech Ltd. of Aurora, Ontario. The quality of the data was monitored on a daily basis during the course of the survey by Condor Consulting. A levelled, digital database was received from Geotech on July 31, 2012 and a complete logistical and processing report was received on August 29, 2012. A preliminary interpretation of the data was done between August 1 and 13, 2012.
A field camp was mobilized from Nuuk to the project area on August 13, 2012. Ground checking of geophysical anomalies identified from the SkyTEM and VTEM surveys commenced on August 15, 2012 and a total of 40 rock samples (including standards and blanks) were submitted for geochemical/assay analysis. A diamond drill was mobilized to the project on August 25, 2012 and nine holes totaling 1,551 meters were drilled to test selected electromagnetic anomalies identified from the SkyTEM and VTEM surveys. The drilling was performed by Cartwright Drilling Inc. of Goose Bay, Labrador and was done in four target areas: Imiak Hill, Spotty Hill, Fossilik and P-59. The core was logged at the field camp and a total of 636 sawn core samples (including standards and blanks) were submitted for geochemical/assay analysis. Seven of the holes were surveyed with a three-component, down-hole electromagnetic probe operated by Crone Geophysics and Exploration Ltd. of Mississauga, Ontario. Geochemical/assay samples were submitted to Activation Laboratories Ltd. for analysis. Drilling was completed on September 16, 2012 and the drill and camp were demobilized from the project site by September 23, 2012. Analytical results from drill core and surface samples are pending.
On June 28, 2012, the Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland announced that the Maniitsoq Structure, which the Companys mineral exploration licenses cover a large portion of, is The remains of a gigantic, 3 billion year old meteorite impact... The paper concluded that the nickel-bearing Greenland Norite Belt, the focus of exploration for the Company, is directly related to this major geological event which is believed to be the oldest, and possibly the largest, such meteorite impact event so far recognized on Earth. The Company is working on the hypothesis that the impact created the extensive magma conduit system that now hosts the norite intrusions and Ni-Cu-Co-PGM mineralization.
On November 14, 2012, the Company announced the intersection of high grade nickel copper mineralization at Imiak Hill. Two of the holes (MQ-12-001 and 002), both drilled on the same section, cored significant sulphide mineralization. The mineralization in MQ-12-001 averaged 1.36% Ni, 0.52% Cu and 0.07% Co over 16.41 meters including 5.12 meters at 2.20% Ni, 0.55% Cu and 0.07% Co. The mineralization in MQ-12-002 averaged 0.55% Ni, 0.20% Cu and 0.02% Co over 66.08 meters and included 14.18 meters at 1.33% Ni, 0.38% Cu and 0.04% Co. Holes MQ-12-003 and 004 did not intersect any significant mineralization and down-hole electromagnetic surveys in the holes indicated that both passed beneath the plunge of the mineralization.
On December 3, 2012, the Company announced a new discovery at Spotty Hill consisting of nickel-copper and PGE mineralization. The mineralization starts 50 metres below surface and also below previous shallow drilling that was completed in 1960-70s. MQ-12-005 intersected 123.94 meters (m) grading: 0.81% Nickel (Ni), 0.21% Copper (Cu), 0.03% Cobalt (Co) & 0.26 g/t Platinum (Pt) + Palladium (Pd) + Gold (Au).
On January 15, 2013, the Company announced the completion of all assay and geochemical analyses on samples from the 2012 drilling program. The results confirmed the existence of significant nickel + copper ± cobalt ±PGE mineralization at Imiak Hill and Spotty Hill.
Polished thin sections were prepared from selected rock samples in order to determine their mineralogy and petrology. Vancouver Petrographics analyzed the sections and submitted a report on their observations to the geological team.
On May 28, 2013 the Company announced that it had finalized the 2013 exploration plan for the Maniitsoq project. The plan called for a minimum of 3,000 meters of diamond drilling to follow-up on 2012 discoveries and to test new geological, geophysical and geochemical targets identified from a review of exploration datasets. Surface pulse time domain electromagnetic (PEM) surveys and 550 line-km of helicopter time domain, electromagnetic and magnetic surveying was also planned.
On June 11, 2013 the Company released results of a QEMSCAN (Quantitative Evaluation of Materials by Scanning Electron Microscopy) study performed on three samples of mineralized drill core: two from the Imiak Hill occurrence and one from the Spotty Hill occurrence. The study was done by SGS Canada Inc. at their Lakefield, Ontario facility. The objectives of the study were to identify and quantify the nickel, copper and cobalt-bearing minerals within the samples and to determine the liberation and association characteristics of the nickel and copper sulphides. The study indicated that all three samples show high potential nickel recovery and variable potential copper recovery. SGSs complete report is posted on the Companys website.
Field work at Maniitsoq commenced on June 15 and was completed on September 16. Twenty five diamond drill holes totaling 4,266 metres were drilled, 917.3 line-kilometres were surveyed with Geotech Ltd.s helicopter borne VTEM time domain electromagnetic and magnetic system, and first pass field checking of all targets identified from the 2012 field work was completed. All but one of the diamond drill holes were surveyed with a three-component bore hole electromagnetic (BHEM) probe. The borehole surveying was done by Crone Geophysics and Exploration Ltd.
In an update released on August 23, 2013, the Company announced that near solid to solid sulphide mineralization was intersected by hole MQ-13-026 at Imiak Hill. The intersection occurred between approximately 142 and 159 metres vertically below surface and was correlated with Zone 30, one of three mineralized zones recognized to date at Imiak Hill (the other two being zones 10 and 20). On September 5, 2013 the Company announced that hole MQ-13-028 had intersected near solid to solid sulphide mineralization at a vertical depth of approximately 185 metres vertically below surface. This mineralization also correlated with Zone 30. The mineralization in MQ-13-028 is the deepest intersected to date at Imiak Hill and Zone 30 remains open at depth.
On September 12, 2013 the Company announced the discovery of significant mineralization at Imiak North, which is situated 950 metres north northeast of Imiak Hill and 1200 metres northwest of the Spotty Hill occurrence. Collectively, these three closely spaced occurrences are referred to as the Imiak Hill Conduit Complex (IHCC).
On September 26, 2013 the Company announced a new discovery within the Fossilik norite intrusion situated approximately 9 kilometres from the IHCC. The discovery was made by hole MQ-13-018, which intersected 4.53m @1.06% Ni, 0.23% Cu, 0.04% Co, 0.33 g/t Pt+Pd+Au starting at 51.8 metres down the hole. This zone remains open at depth and additional drilling is warranted.
On October 10, 2013, the Company reported that the mineralization intersected by hole MQ-13-026 at Imiak Hill averaged 3.25% nickel, 0.48% copper and 0.11% cobalt over a core length of 25.51 metres including 18.62 metres at 4.31% nickel, 0.62% copper and 0.14% cobalt. Assay results for holes MQ-13-024 and 019 were also announced. These holes intersected mineralization above hole MQ-13-026 and both holes returned significant assays including 14.90 metres grading 2.67% nickel, 0.39% copper and 0.09% cobalt in hole 024 and 8.68 metres grading 1.53% nickel, 0.43% copper and 0.06% cobalt in hole 019. Eight regional exploration holes were also announced for a total of 1,163 metres testing VTEM anomalies.
On October 23, 2013, the Company announced that high grade nickel mineralization intersected by hole MQ-13-029 at Imiak North averaged 4.65% nickel over a core length of 9.99 metres. Hole MQ-13-027, also drilled at Imiak North intersected 64.11 metres grading 0.45% nickel and 0.20% copper. Hole MQ-13-022 drilled at Spotty Hill returned 20.07 metres grading 0.68% nickel, 0.28% copper and 0.32g/t Pt+Pd+Au.
On November 7, 2013, the Company announced results from hole MQ-13-028, the deepest hole at Imiak Hill (180 metres vertically below surface) grading 3.19% nickel, 1.14% copper and 0.11% cobalt over 24.75 metres core length. The mineralization remains open at depth.
On November 21, 2013, the Company announced a new discovery at target P-13 from hole MQ-13-032 grading 0.44% nickel, 0.20% copper over 6.51 metres core length. Follow-up work is planned for 2014.
On December 2, 2013, the Company announced 100 new electromagnetic exploration targets had been identified at Maniitsoq as a result of the latest helicopter-borne survey.
During the three months ended March 31, 2014:
On March 3, 2014 the Company announced that Air Greenland was awarded the helicopter contract to provide field support for our exploration program in 2014. Planning is on-going for deep penetrating electromagnetic and gravity surveys as well as camp logistic contracts.
On March 19, 2014 the Company announced Crone Geophysics was awarded the surface electromagnetic and gravity surveys over the Imiak Hill Conduit Complex and Fossilik areas. The surveys will be completed on 200 metre line spacing as is designed to search for deep anomalies.
Subsequent Events
On April 3, 2014 the Company awarded the drilling contract to Cartwright Drilling Inc. and logistics and camp services to Xploration Services ApS for the upcoming field season.
On April 17, 2014 the Company announced the starting of surface geophysical programs consisting of time-domain electromagnetics and gravity.
On May 9, 2014 the Company announced a private placement of up to $9,400,000 with the net proceeds to fund the 2014 exploration and zone drilling programs.
On May 15, 2014 the Company announced hiring Patricia Tirschmann as a Principle Nickel Geologist for the company with a focus on reviewing all technical data while focusing on the zone drilling at Imiak Hill Conduit Complex.
Activities contemplated in the future
Surface geophysical surveys are currently on-going and data from the surveys will be interpreted prior to the start-up of the zone and exploration drilling programs. The results will help guide the drilling programs with focus on Imiak Hill Conduit Complex and Fossilik area.
Drilling is scheduled to start by mid-June and will continue into the fall with the emphasis on drilling at Imiak Hill and 15-20 exploration targets.
Sudbury, Ontario nickel properties:
Post Creek Property
On December 23, 2009, the Company executed a letter of intent whereby the Company has an option to acquire the mineral claim known as the Post Creek Property located within the Sudbury Mining District of Ontario. The Company paid a non-refundable deposit of $7,500. On April 5, 2010 the Company entered into an option agreement to acquire rights to Post Creek Property. On March 12, 2013 the Post Creek Property Option Agreement was amended, as indicated in the schedule below. In order to acquire 100% working interests in the property, subject to certain net smelter return royalties (NSR) and advance royalty payments the Company agreed to the following amended consideration. Further, commencing the amended date of August 1, 2015, if the Company exercises its option, the Company will be obligated to pay advances on the NSR of $10,000 per annum, which will be deducted from any payments to be made under the NSR:
Exploration | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Date | Cash | Issuance of shares | Requirements | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April |
5, 2010 | $ | 12,500 | 400,000 | paid & issued | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 30,000 | 300,000 | paid & issued | $ | Exploration
|
5, 2011 | 15,000 | requirements to
April 5, 2011
$624,715 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Exploration
requirements to
|
On or before April | $ | April 5, 2012
|
5, 2012 | $ | 50,000 | 300,000 | paid & issued | 15,000 | $830,127 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Exploration
requirements to
|
On or before April | $ | April 5, 2012
|
5, 2013 | $ | 15,000 | | Paid | 15,000 | $830,127 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 5, 2014 | $ | 15,000 | | Paid | 15,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 5, 2015 | $ | 15,000 | | 15,000 |
The property is located 35 km east of Sudbury in Norman and Parkin townships and consists of 35 contiguous unpatented mining claims and one isolated claim covering an area of 688 hectares. It is strategically located adjacent to the producing Podolsky copper-nickel-platinum group metal deposit of FNX Mining. The property lies along the extension of the Whistle Offset Dyke Structure which is a major geological control for Ni-Cu-PGM mineralization. This structure hosted the former INCO Whistle Offset copper-nickel-PGM Mine as well as the Podolsky North and Podolsky 2000 copper-precious metal deposits. FNX forecast the production of 372,049 tons of ore at Podolsky yielding 1.8 million pounds of payable nickel, 28.5 million pounds of payable copper and 27,300 ounces of payable platinum, palladium and gold for 2009. Previous operators located the extension of the Whistle Offset Dyke structure on the Post Creek property as a direct result of their geological, geophysical and Mobile Metal Ion geochemical surveys. A reconnaissance rock sample collected along the structure assayed 0.83% Ni, 0.74% Cu, 0.07% Co, 2.24 g/t Pt and 1.05 g/t Pd. Significant potential for nickel-copper-PGM is demonstrated on the Post Creek property.
Performance Summary:
The exploration program to evaluate the mineral potential of the Whistle Offset Dyke Structure was initiated September 24, 2010. This project included outcrop stripping, washing and detailed mapping. There were also a number of reconnaissance programs initiated concurrently to evaluate the Post Creek property for shallowly-buried mineralization. The geophysical approach was based on the use of a beep mat and selected traverses across the property were undertaken. A number of elevated EM responses were obtained and a number of these areas were stripped of overburden using an excavator and washed using a Wajax pump. Exposed mineralization was chip sampled and sent to SGS Mineral Services for a multi-element analysis including assay for nickel, copper, cobalt, gold, platinum and palladium. Selected soil geochemical surveys were undertaken over historic IP chargeability anomalies. Samples were submitted June 9, 2011 to SGS Mineral Services for analysis using the Mobile Metal Ion Technology.
Extensive outcrop stripping with a mechanical excavator aided by power washing of outcrops was completed. Outcrop sampling, where warranted, was continued and assistance from experienced Sudbury geological consultants was retained for short periods to demonstrate the subtleties of mapping offset dyke structures. Ground VLF-EM and magnetic surveys were initiated.
Airborne VTEM geophysical survey results and ground IP and magnetic surveys undertaken by previous operators were obtained from the geophysical contractors in digital formats and integrated with geological and geochemical databases.
October 18, 2011 new geophysical data was acquired from Abitibi Geophysics from a newly cut grid on the Post Creek property. Electromagnetic and magnetic anomalies were detected and a seven hole diamond drill program consisting of 1532.5 metres. The exploration included down-hole pulsing to detect potential anomalies for future drill-testing.
On December 14, 2011 a seven hole diamond drill program was planned and implemented with Chenier drilling of Capreol, Ontario contracted to carry out a 1532.5 metre program.
On December 14, 2011 the Company announced the offset dyke or CJ Zone was expanded subsequent to previous ground geophysical surveys and prospecting by Cecil Johnson. Geophysical anomalies detected by the Abitibi Infinitem geophysical survey were drill tested and indicated the geophysical responses were attributable to heavily disseminated to near-solid pyrrhotite, pyrite and minor chalcopyrite. These mineralized zones were hosted within large blocks of mafic volcanic rocks present within the offset dyke and with oxide and lean iron formation. Drill core was sampled and submitted for assay to AGAT Laboratories. Results indicate generally low base and precious metal values in this mineralization. The mineralization is interpreted to be of Archean age occurring as veins/layers and disseminations within Archean rocks.
Analytical data, geological maps and historic geophysical information were compiled by Dr. Walter Peredery to form the basis for a 43-101 technical report which was submitted to the TSX Exchange on May 18, 2011 as part of listing requirements for North American Nickel. The report was accepted by the Exchange on May 27, 2011.
August 16, 2011, detailed prospecting by Mr. Cecil Johnson on behalf of the Company on the Post Creek property has resulted in the discovery of a previously unrecognized mineralized Offset dyke. The Offset dykes are recognized in the Sudbury mining camp as hosts to significant ore deposits and as such this discovery is considered extremely important. Follow-up outcrop stripping using a mechanical excavator accompanied by power washing to prepare the outcrop area for mapping and sampling has been initiated. The offset dyke has been named the Cecil Johnson Offset Dyke or CJ#1 after Mr. Johnson, the discoverer.
A review of all characteristics of the CJ target zone and the results of diamond drilling indicate the CJ Zone is more accurately described as a breccia belt rather than a sharp-walled offset dyke. The breccia belt is along strike from the Podolsky nickel-copper-platinum group metal mine and as such the CJ Zone is still considered as a high-priority exploration target. The mineral potential of this re-interpreted offset dyke has been elevated owing to observations made by North American Nickel geologists aided by Andy Bite, a well-known and highly respected Sudbury geologist. The breccia belt is now interpreted as an embayment structure and will be explored accordingly.
A petrographic report on drill core samples from 2011 program was completed. The thin sections cut from the drill core confirm that the bottom of this new embayment has not been intersected by drilling, and consequently, the most prospective section of the observed embayment has not been reached. The petrographic work confirmed the size and extent of the mapped embayment, which is still open to the east and south, and possibly to the north as well.
On March 12, 2013, the Company amended the Property Option Agreements on the Post Creek Property. The option agreement was amended by modifying the property expenditure and property payment requirements in order for the Optionee to earn a 100% interest in the claims.
During the three months ended March 31, 2014:
The Company on March 27, 2014 made the $15,000 payment as per the Property Option Agreements.
Subsequent Events
There were no subsequent events following the end of the reporting period.
Activities contemplated in the future
A joint venture partner continues to be sought out to follow-up the CJ Embayment structure.
Halcyon Property
On April 5, 2010, the Company entered into an option agreement to acquire rights to Halcyon Property. On March 12, 2013 the Halcyon Property Option Agreement was amended, as indicated in the schedule below. In order to acquire up to a 100% working interests in the property, subject to certain net smelter return royalties (NSR) and advance royalty payments the Company agreed to the following amended consideration. Further, commencing the amended date of August 1, 2015, if the Company exercises its option, the Company will be obligated to pay advances on the NSR of $8,000 per annum, which will be deducted from any payments to be made under the NSR:
Exploration | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Date | Cash | Issuance of shares | Requirements | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April |
5, 2010 | $ | 15,000 | 300,000 | paid & issued | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 25,000 | 200,000 | paid & issued | $ | Exploration
|
5, 2011 | 22,000 | requirements to
April 5, 2011
$40,299 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 35,000 | 200,000 | paid & issued | $ | Exploration
|
5, 2012 | 22,000 | requirements to
April 5, 2012
$53,985 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 15,000 | | Paid | $ | Exploration
|
5, 2013 | 22,000 | requirements to
April 5, 2012
$53,985 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 5, 2014 | $ | 15,000 | | Paid | 22,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
On or before April | $ | 5, 2015 | $ | 15,000 | | 22,000 |
The property is located 35 Km NNE of Sudbury in the SE corner of Parkin Twp, and consists of 46 unpatented mining claims. It is readily accessible by paved and all-weather gravel road. Halcyon is adjacent to the Post Creek property and contains the extension of the metallogenetically significant Whistle Offset Structure now interpreted to represent an embayment. It is approximately 2 km north of the producing Podolsky Mine of FNX Mining. Previous operators on the property defined numerous conductive zones based on induced polarization (I.P.) surveys with coincident anomalous soil geochemistry. Base and precious metal mineralization have been found in multiple locations on the property but follow-up work was never done. The former producing Jon Smith Mine (nickel-copper-cobalt-platinum) is situated 1 Km North of the property.
Performance Summary:
Data compilation was initiated with the aim of delineating potential areas for follow-up exploration. Based on newly acquired information from the Post Creek property the adjacent Halcyon property will be the target of geological prospecting and geophysical activities.
On September 14, 2011 a partial cut grid was established on the western edge of the Halcyon property to accommodate the Abitibi Geophysics EM survey covering the adjacent Post Creek property.
On December 14, 2011, prospecting and a small amount of outcrop stripping were completed in preparation for a drill program. A single drill hole was put down on the southeast corner of the property with the purpose of providing geological information and to provide a platform for bore hole pulse EM (BHPEM). No anomalies were detected with the BHPEM although quartz diorite breccia and partial melt material with 2-3% disseminated pyrrhotite and chalcopyrite was intersected over short core lengths.
On March 12, 2013, the Company amended the Property Option Agreements on the Halcyon Property. The option agreement was amended by modifying the property expenditure and property payment requirements in order for the Optionee to earn a 100% interest in the claims.
During the three months ended March 31, 2014:
The Company on March 27, 2014 made the $15,000 payment as per the Property Option Agreements.
Subsequent Events
There were no subsequent events following the end of the reporting period.
Activities contemplated in the future
A joint venture partner continues to be sought out to follow-up the CJ Embayment structure.
Selected Financial Information
The Companys condensed interim financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2014 have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and practices. Currency amounts are in Canadian dollars, except where stated otherwise. The following selected financial information is taken from the Condensed Financial Statements and should be read in conjunction with those statements.
For the three months ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
March 31, 2014 | March 31, 2013 | March 31, 2012 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Financial Results | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss |
$ | 215,624 | $ | 188,242 | $ | 185,591 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic loss per share |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
As at: | March 31, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | December 31, 2012 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance Sheet Data |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Share capital | $33,673,914 | $ | 33,631,235 | $ | 22,786,694 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Common shares issued | 140,676,584 | 140,576,584 | 80,560,193 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted average shares outstanding |
140,599,917 | 111,753,433 | 69,179,749 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total assets | $18,716,439 | $ | 18,715,919 | $ | 9,009,702 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (liabilities) | 18,479,255 | 18,679,879 | 8,946,548 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Exchange rates (Cdn$ to U.S.$) period average |
1.1039 | 1.0299 | 1.0004 |
Results of Operations
Three Months Ended March 31, 2014 compared with Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
For the three months ended March 31, 2014, the Company incurred a net loss of $215,624 compared to a net loss of $188,242 for the three months ended March 31, 2013. The increase of $27,382 in net loss is a result of general operating costs increased by $98,375 which is mainly the result of an increase of $50,385 in investor relations mainly due to travel costs for conferences, an increase of $21,314 in consulting fees as a result of more fees expenses than capitalized in this period, an increase in management fees, salaries, and general and administrative costs of $38,136 as a result of adjusting the split on shared costs. The increase in general operating costs have been offset with no share-based payment amount for the period and an increase in interest earned. There was a decrease in foreign exchange loss of $2,991 as a result of exploration in Greenland and the costs in the DKK currency.
During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company had total assets of $18,715,919, an increase of $9,706,217 since December 31, 2012 which reported total assets of $9,009,702. This increase is a result raising funds through a private placement of $7,054,098 and using the funds on the exploration program in Greenland. Exploration and evaluation assets increased by $4,735,137 as a result of the drilling program in Greenland and the property impairment of $253,090 on the Thompson North property. The Company in the year 2012 raised $3,400,000 through a private placement and spent $3,023,347 on property exploration during the year ending 2012.
Selected Financial Data Quarterly
Three months ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
March 31, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | September 30, 2013 | June 30, 2013 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss | $(215,624) | $(530,911) | $(311,114) | $(230,034) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic loss per share |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Three months ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
March 31, 2013 | December 31, 2012 | September 30, 2012 | June 30, 2012 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss | $(188,242) | $(394,308) | $(538,690) | $(334,973) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic loss per share |
0.00 | 0.01 | 0.01 | 0.01 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance Sheet Data | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
As at: | March 31, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | September 30, 2013 | June 30, 2013 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Share capital | $33,673,914 | $33,631,235 | $29,765,216 | $29,757,268 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common shares issued |
140,676,584 | 140,576,584 | 122,179,885 | 122,154,885 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted average shares
outstanding |
140,599,917 | 111,753,433 | 102,094,708 | 91,922,551 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total assets |
$ | 18,716,439 | $ | 18,715,919 | $ | 16,024,672 | $ | 16,166,896 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (liabilities) |
$ | 18,479,255 | $ | 18,679,879 | $ | 15,292,602 | $ | 15,574,851 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
As at: | March 31, 2013 | December 31, 2012 | September 30, 2012 | June 30, 2012 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Share capital | $22,796,694 | $22,786,694 | $22,453,694 | $22,422,944 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common shares issued |
80,660,193 | 80,560,193 | 77,230,193 | 76,922,693 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted average shares
outstanding |
80,636,860 | 69,179,749 | 66,117,922 | 60,922,973 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total assets |
$ | 8,962,423 | $ | 9,009,702 | $ | 9,266,296 | $ | 9,331,948 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (liabilities) |
$ | 8,818,679 | $ | 8,946,548 | $ | 8,994,187 | $ | 9,097,786 |
The quarters ended December 31, 2013, September 30, 2013, June 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, recorded an increased net loss as a result of share-based compensation charges reported of $77,110, $25,115, $25,634 and $404,340 respectively as a result of stock option grants in those quarters. The quarters ended December 31, 2013, December 31, 2012, June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 recorded property impairment amounts of $253,090, $233,760, $134,543 and $267,462 respectively as a result of writing down Thompson North, WIC Property, South Bay property and the Bell and Woods Creek properties and Cedar Lake property. In the quarter ended June 30, 2013 there was an increase in management fees and salaries.
In the quarter ended December 31, 2013 the Company issued 18,276,199 common shares for warrant exercise at $0.21 per share for proceeds of $3,838,002 which was the reason for the increase in share capital and total assets. In the quarters ended June 30, 2013 and June 30, 2012 the Company raised funds of $7,054,098 and $3,400,000 respectively through private placements accounting for the increase in total assets and share capital with the granting of 41,494,692 units and 20,000,000 units. In the quarter ended September 30, 2011 the Company entered into an intellectual property and data acquisition agreement in conjunction with the acquisition of the Maniitsoq mineral exploration license for a fair value of $3,240,000 increasing total assets reported. In the quarter ended December 31, 2011 the Company recorded an adjustment on the fair value of the amount calculated for the intellectual property and data acquisition agreement of $1,298,737 reducing total assets.
Liquidity
As at March 31, 2014 the Company had accumulated losses totaling $18,189,747. The Company had working capital of $5,745,497 at March 31, 2014. The continuation of the Company is dependent upon the continued financial support of shareholders, its ability to raise capital through the issuance of its securities, as well as obtaining long-term financing when the company concludes an appropriate merger or acquisition agreement. On May 8, 2014, the Company proposed a private placement of up to 28,484,848 shares at a price of $0.33 per share for proceeds of up to $9,400,000 which has been conditionally accepted by the TSX Venture Exchange. On October 1, 2013 the Sentient Group exercised 18,276,199 warrants at $0.21 per unit for gross funds of $3,838,001.
The Company has financed its operations to date primarily through the issuance of common shares and exercise of stock options and warrants. The Company continues to seek capital through various means including the issuance of equity and/or debt and the securing of joint venture partners where appropriate.
Capital Management
When managing capital, the Companys objective is to ensure the entity continues as a going concern as well as to maintain optimal returns to shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders. Management adjusts the capital structure as necessary in order to support the acquisition and exploration of mineral properties. The Board of Directors does not establish quantitative return on capital criteria for management, but rather relies on the expertise of the Companys management team to manage its capital.
The properties in which the Company currently has an interest are in the exploration stage. As such, the Company is dependent on external financing to fund its activities. In order to carry out the planned exploration and pay for administrative costs, the Company will spend its existing working capital and raise additional amounts as needed. The Company will continue to assess new properties and seek to acquire an interest in additional properties if it feels there is sufficient geologic or economic potential and if it has adequate financial resources to do so.
Management considers its approach to capital management to be appropriate given the relative size of the Company. There were no changes in the Companys approach to capital management during the period.
Financial Instruments and Other Instruments
The Companys financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, receivables and trade payables and accrued liabilities. Cash and cash equivalents are designated as held for trading and therefore carried at fair value, with the unrealized gain or loss recorded in income. Receivables are designated as loan receivables and trade payables, are designated as other financial liabilities and recorded at amortized cost. Marketable securities are available for sale with the unrealized gain or loss recorded in other comprehensive income.
The fair value hierarchy establishes three levels to classify inputs to the valuation techniques used to measure fair value. Level 1 inputs are quoted market prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted market prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 3 inputs are unobservable (supported by little or no market activity).
Cash and cash equivalents are stated at fair value and are classified as Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. The fair values of accounts receivables and trade payables approximate carrying value because of the short term nature of these instruments.
The fair value of available for sale investments are determined based on a market approach reflecting the closing price of each particular security at the closing balance sheet date. The closing price is a quoted market price obtained from the exchange that is the principal active market for the particular security, and therefore available for sale securities are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
Financial Instrument Risk Factors
Risk management is carried out by the Companys management team with guidance from the Board of Directors. The Companys risk exposures and their impact on the Companys financial instruments are summarized below:
Credit Risk
The Companys credit risk is primarily attributable to cash, short-term investments and amounts
receivable. Cash and cash equivalents, and short-term investments are held with one reputable
Canadian chartered bank which is closely monitored by management. Financial instruments included
in amounts receivable consist primarily of HST/GST recoverable from the Canadian government.
Management believes that the credit risk concentration with respect to financial instruments
included in cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and amounts receivable is minimal.
Liquidity Risk
The Companys approach to managing liquidity risk is to ensure that it will have sufficient
liquidity to meet liabilities when due. As at March 31, 2014, the Company held cash and a
short-term investment totaling $5,742,040 (December 31, 2013 $6,278,919) and had current
liabilities of $237,184 (December 31, 2013 $36,040). All of the Companys liabilities have
contractual maturities of less than 30 days and are subject to normal trade terms.
Market Risk
i) Interest Rate Risk
The Company had cash balances and no interest bearing debt. The Companys current policy is to invest excess cash in investment-grade short-term deposit certificates issued by its banking institutions. The Company periodically monitors the investments it makes and is satisfied with the creditworthiness of its banks. As of March 31, 2014, the Company had non-interest bearing accounts with one Canadian chartered bank.
ii) Foreign Currency Risk
The Company is exposed to the financial risk related to fluctuations of foreign exchange rates. The Company operates in Canada and Greenland and a portion of exploration and evaluation assets are incurred in US dollars, Euros and Danish Krones (DKK). The Company has hedged DKK17,850,000 at a rate of 4.76 and a deposit of $150,000 to work with the currency fluctuations, however foreign currency risk is considered low as the majority of transactions are settled and reported in Canadian dollars.
iii) Price Risk
The Company is exposed to price risk with respect to commodity prices. Commodity price risk is defined as the potential adverse impact on earnings and economic value due to commodity price movements and volatilities. To mitigate price risk, the Company closely monitors commodity prices of precious metals and the stock market to determine the appropriate course of action to be taken by the Company.
Accounting Standards Not Yet Effective
Other accounting standards or amendments to existing accounting standards that have been issued but have future effective dates are either not applicable or are not expected to have a significant impact on the Companys financial statements.
New standard IFRS 9 Financial Instruments
This standard addresses classification and measurement of financial assets and replaces the
multiple category and measurement models in IAS 39 for debt instruments with a new mixed
measurement model having only two categories: Amortized cost and fair value through profit or loss.
IFRS 9 also replaces the models for measuring equity instruments and such instruments are either
recognized at the fair value through profit or loss or at fair value through other comprehensive
income. Where such equity instruments are measured at fair value through other comprehensive
income, dividends are recognized in profit or loss to the extent not clearly representing a return
of investment: however, other gains and losses (including impairments) associated with such
instruments remain in accumulated other comprehensive income indefinitely.
Requirements for financial liabilities were added in October 2010 which mainly carried forward existing requirements in IAS 39, Financial Instruments Recognition and Measurement, except that fair value changes due to credit risk for liabilities designated at fair value through profit and loss would generally be recorded in other comprehensive income. This new standard is a partial replacement of IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. The effective date of IFRS 9 has not been specified.
Additional Disclosure for Venture Issuers Without Significant Revenue
The business of the Company entails significant risks, and an investment in the securities of
the Company should be considered highly speculative. An investment in the securities of the Company
should only be undertaken by persons who have sufficient financial resources to enable them to
assume such risks. The following is a general description of all material risks, which can
adversely affect the business and in turn the financial results, ultimately affecting the value of
an investment the Company.
The Company has no significant revenues.
The Company has limited funds.
There is no assurance that the Company can access additional capital.
There is no assurance that the Company will be successful in its quest to find a commercially
viable quantity of mineral resources.
The Company has a history of operating losses and may have operating losses and a negative cash
flow in the future.
The Companys auditors have indicated that U.S. reporting standards would require them to raise
a concern about the companys ability to continue as a going concern.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
There are no off-balance sheet arrangements.
Table of Property Contractual Obligations
Exploration | ||||||||||||||||
Date | Cash | Issuance of shares | Requirements | |||||||||||||
On or before April 5, 2010 |
$12,500 |
400,000 |
paid & issued |
|||||||||||||
On or before April 5, 2011 |
$ | 30,000 | 300,000 | paid & issued | $ | 15,000 | Exploration requirements to April 5, 2011 $624,715 |
|||||||||
On or before April 5, 2012 |
$ | 50,000 | 300,000 | paid & issued | $ | 15,000 | Exploration requirements to April 5, 2012 $830,127 |
|||||||||
On or before April 5, 2013 |
$ | 15,000 | - | paid | $ | 15,000 | Exploration requirements to April 5, 2013 $975,049 |
|||||||||
On or before April 5, 2014 |
$15,000 |
- |
paid |
$15,000 |
||||||||||||
On or before April 5, 2015 |
$15,000 |
- |
$15,000 |
Exploration | ||||||||||||||||
Date | Cash | Issuance of shares | Requirements | |||||||||||||
On or before April 5, 2010 |
$15,000 |
300,000 |
paid & issued |
|||||||||||||
On or before April 5, 2011 |
$ | 25,000 | 200,000 | paid & issued | $ | 22,000 | Exploration requirements to April 5, 2011 $40,299 |
|||||||||
On or before April 5, 2012 |
$ | 35,000 | 200,000 | paid & issued | $ | 22,000 | Exploration requirements to April 5, 2012 $53,985 |
|||||||||
On or before April 5, 2013 |
$ | 15,000 | - | paid | $ | 22,000 | Exploration requirements to April 5, 2013 $80,675 |
|||||||||
On or before April 5, 2014 |
$15,000 |
- |
paid |
$22,000 |
||||||||||||
On or before April 5, 2015 |
$15,000 |
- |
$22,000 |
Related Party Transactions
Related party transactions were in the normal course of business and have been recorded at the exchange amount which is the fair value agreed to between the parties. Amounts due to related parties are unsecured, non-interest bearing and without specific terms of repayment.
During the period ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company entered into transactions with related parties comprised of directors, officers and companies with common directors as follows:
Related party Nature of transaction
Mount Morgan Resources Ltd. Geological consulting fees provided by Mark Fedikow, President for a monthly retainer of $6,000 |
Dockside Capital Group Inc. Management fees for services provided by directors for a monthly retainer of $4,000. |
VMS Ventures Inc. Management fees for services provided by Rick Mark for a monthly retainer of $8,000, as amended April 1, 2013, CEO, Cheryl Messier for a monthly retainer of $5,750, effective January 1, 2014, CFO, Neil Richardson adjusted monthly retainer of $6,000, COO and shared administrative costs. |
Included in trade payables and accrued liabilities as at March 31, 2014 is $79,082 (December 31, 2013- $5,894) owing to VMS Ventures Inc. for shared administrative costs.
During the three months ended March 31, 2014, the Company recorded $2,700 (March 31, 2013 $2,700) in rent expense to VMS Ventures Inc.
For the three months ended March 31, 2014, the Company paid $24,000 (March 31, 2013 $15,000) for management fees to VMS Ventures Inc. regarding Rick Mark, CEO and to Dockside Capital Group Inc. $12,000 (March 31, 2013 $12,000) regarding services from two directors.
Included in exploration and evaluation assets for the three months ended March 31, 2014 is $14,189 (March 31, 2013 $Nil) which VMS Ventures Inc. was paid regarding geological fees for Neil Richardson, COO
Included in geological consulting fees for the three months ended March 31, 2014 is $18,000 (March 31, 2013 $18,000) which Mount Morgan Resources Ltd. was paid regarding geological fees for Mark Fedikow, President and VMS Ventures Inc. was paid $5,160 (March 31, 2013 $Nil) regarding geological fees for Neil Richardson, COO.
The Company has identified certain directors and certain senior officers as its key management personnel. The compensation costs for key management personnel for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
Period ended | ||||||||
March 31, | March 31, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
Geological consulting fees expensed |
$ | 23,160 | $ | 18,000 | ||||
Geological consulting fees -
capitalized |
14,189 | | ||||||
Management fees expensed |
36,000 | 27,000 | ||||||
Salaries expensed |
16,500 | | ||||||
Stock-based compensation |
| | ||||||
$ | 89,849 | $ | 45,000 | |||||
Subsequent Events
On April 17, 2014, the Company issued 294,117 common shares for a warrant exercise at $0.21 per share for proceeds of $61,765.
On April 29, 2014, the Company issued 100,000 common shares for a stock option exercise at $0.15 per share for proceeds of $15,000.
On May 16, 2014, the Company issued 50,000 common shares for a stock option exercise at $0.24 per share for proceeds of $12,000.
On May 29, 2014, the Company closed a private placement of 28,424,152 shares at a price of $0.33 per share for proceeds of $9,379,970. In lieu of cash, 50,000 shares were issued as finders fees.
Share Capital Data
The following table sets forth the Companys share capital data as at May 29, 2014
Common Shares |
141,120,701 | |||
-issued & outstanding |
||||
Preferred Shares |
604,724 | |||
-issued & outstanding |
||||
Options |
||||
-issued & outstanding |
7,837,500 | |||
Warrants |
||||
-issued & outstanding |
25,137,027 |
Further Information
Additional information about the Company is available at the Canadian disclosure website www.sedar.com
Form 52-109FV2
Certification of Interim Filings
Venture Issuer Basic Certificate
I, Richard Mark, Chief Executive Officer, North American Nickel Inc., certify the following:
1. | Review: I have reviewed the interim financial report and interim MD&A (together, the interim filings) of North American Nickel Inc. (the issuer) for the interim period ended March 31, 2014. |
2. | No misrepresentations: Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the interim filings do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated or that is necessary to make a statement not misleading in light of the circumstances under which it was made, with respect to the period covered by the interim filings. |
3. | Fair presentation: Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the interim financial report together with the other financial information included in the interim filings fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, financial performance and cash flows of the issuer, as of the date of and for the periods presented in the interim filings. |
Date: May 29, 2014
signed
Richard Mark
Chief Executive Officer
NOTE TO READER
In contrast to the certificate required for non-venture issuers under National Instrument 52-109 Certification of Disclosure in Issuers Annual and Interim Filings (NI 52-109), this Venture Issuer Basic Certificate does not include representations relating to the establishment and maintenance of disclosure controls and procedures (DC&P) and internal control over financial reporting (ICFR), as defined in NI 52-109. In particular, the certifying officers filing this certificate are not making any representations relating to the establishment and maintenance of
i) | controls and other procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by the issuer in its annual filings, interim filings or other reports filed or submitted under securities legislation is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in securities legislation; and |
ii) | a process to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with the issuers GAAP. |
The issuers certifying officers are responsible for ensuring that processes are in place to provide them with sufficient knowledge to support the representations they are making in this certificate. Investors should be aware that inherent limitations on the ability of certifying officers of a venture issuer to design and implement on a cost effective basis DC&P and ICFR as defined in NI 52-109 may result in additional risks to the quality, reliability, transparency and timeliness of interim and annual filings and other reports provided under securities legislation.
Form 52-109FV2
Certification of Interim Filings
Venture Issuer Basic Certificate
I, Cheryl Messier, Chief Financial Officer, North American Nickel Inc., certify the following:
1. | Review: I have reviewed the interim financial report and interim MD&A (together, the interim filings) of North American Nickel Inc. (the issuer) for the interim period ended March 31, 2014. |
2. | No misrepresentations: Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the interim filings do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated or that is necessary to make a statement not misleading in light of the circumstances under which it was made, with respect to the period covered by the interim filings. |
3. | Fair presentation: Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the interim financial report together with the other financial information included in the interim filings fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, financial performance and cash flows of the issuer, as of the date of and for the periods presented in the interim filings. |
Date: May 29, 2014
signed
Cheryl Messier
Chief Financial Officer
NOTE TO READER
In contrast to the certificate required for non-venture issuers under National Instrument 52-109 Certification of Disclosure in Issuers Annual and Interim Filings (NI 52-109), this Venture Issuer Basic Certificate does not include representations relating to the establishment and maintenance of disclosure controls and procedures (DC&P) and internal control over financial reporting (ICFR), as defined in NI 52-109. In particular, the certifying officers filing this certificate are not making any representations relating to the establishment and maintenance of
i) | controls and other procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by the issuer in its annual filings, interim filings or other reports filed or submitted under securities legislation is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in securities legislation; and |
ii) | a process to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with the issuers GAAP. |
The issuers certifying officers are responsible for ensuring that processes are in place to provide them with sufficient knowledge to support the representations they are making in this certificate. Investors should be aware that inherent limitations on the ability of certifying officers of a venture issuer to design and implement on a cost effective basis DC&P and ICFR as defined in NI 52-109 may result in additional risks to the quality, reliability, transparency and timeliness of interim and annual filings and other reports provided under securities legislation.