EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
1.
ORGANIZATION AND HISTORY
Eastern
Goldfields, Inc., (the Company" or "EGI") is the parent
company of Eastern Goldfields SA (Proprietary) Limited, (EGSA), a corporation
organized under the laws of the Republic of South Africa. EGSA conducts all of the
Companys business operations in South Africa through its South African
corporation subsidiaries.
Eastern
Goldfields, Inc. was originally incorporated under the laws of the State of Nevada on July 15, 1998, under the name of Fairbanks Financial, Inc. The Company was
established as a business management, marketing and consulting firm to serve
both the emerging and established business entrepreneur. Since its
incorporation, the Company has had minimal operations. It redirected its
business efforts in late 2005 and on September 23, 2005, following a change in
control, it purchased 100% of the issued and outstanding common or ordinary
stock of EGSA. On October 1, 2005, the Companys wholly owned subsidiary, EGSA,
acquired, via a share exchange, 100% of the issued and outstanding common or
ordinary stock of Eastern Goldfields Limited (EGL), a South African gold
producer and developer corporation. EGL conducts mining operations in the
Barberton Greenstone Belt area of the Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. On
October 25, 2005, the Company changed its corporate name to Eastern Goldfields,
Inc. to more accurately reflect its business operations. On May 30, 2008, EGSA
acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding common or ordinary stock of
Barbrook Mines Limited (Barbrook), also a South African gold producer and
developer corporation. On December 15, 2008, ownership of Barbrook was placed
under EGL.
This
share exchange for the acquisition of EGL by EGIs wholly owned South African
subsidiary, EGSA, was accounted for as a reverse acquisition, and, accordingly,
for financial statement purposes, EGL was considered the accounting acquiror
and the subject transaction was considered a recapitalization of EGL rather
than an acquisition by the Company. Accordingly, the historical financial
statements prior to this share exchange are those of EGL, however, the name of
the consolidated corporation going forward is Eastern Goldfields, Inc.
EGL
itself is a South African holding company which has three South African subsidiary
corporations; Makonjwaan Imperial Mining Company (Pty) Ltd. (MIMCO), Eastern
Goldfields Exploration (Pty) Ltd. (EGE) and Centurion Mining Company (Pty)
Ltd. (Centurion).
2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis
of Presentation
The
unaudited consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared
in accordance with the accounting principles generally accepted in the United
States for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q
and Article 8 and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. They do not include all
information and notes required by generally accepted accounting principles for
complete financial statements. However, except as disclosed herein, there has
been no material changes in the information disclosed in the notes to the
consolidated financial statements included in the Companys annual report on
Form 10-K of Eastern Goldfields, Inc. and Subsidiaries for the year ended
December 31, 2008. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (including
normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have
been included. Operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2009, are
not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for any other
interim period or the entire year. For further information, these unaudited
consolidated financial statements and the related notes should be read in
conjuction with the Companys audited financial statements for the year ended
December 31, 2008, included in the Companys annual report on Form 10-K.
8
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
2.
SUMMARY
OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
(Continued)
Principles
of Consolidation
The
consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of the
Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All amounts are in U.S. dollars
unless otherwise indicated. All significant intercompany balances and
transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Property Plant and
Mine Development
Mining
assets, including mine development and infrastructure costs and mine plant
facilities, are recorded at cost of acquisition. Expenditure incurred to
evaluate and develop new ore bodies, to define mineralization in existing ore
bodies, to establish or expand productive capacity, is capitalized until
commercial levels of production are achieved, at which times the costs are
amortized as set out below.
Mineral
rights are recorded at cost of acquisition. When there is little likelihood of
a mineral right being exploited, or the value of mineral rights have diminished
below cost, a write-down is affected against income in the period that such
determination is made.
Non-mining
assets are recorded at cost of acquisition. These assets include the assets of
the mining operation not included in the previous categories and all the assets
of the non-mining operations.
Depreciation,
depletion and amortization is determined to give a fair and systematic charge
in the income statement taking into account the nature of a particular ore body
and the method of mining of that ore body. Mining assets, including mine
development and infrastructure costs, mine plant facilities and evaluation
costs, are amortized over the life of the mine using units-of-production
method, based on estimated proved and probable ore reserves above the
infrastructure. The proven and probable reserve quantities used to calculate
depreciation, depletion and amortization do not include the proven and probable
reserve quantities attributable to stockpiled inventory.
Proved
and probable ore reserves reflect the estimated quantities of economically
recoverable reserves, which can be recovered in future from known mineral
deposits.
Certain
mining plant and equipment included in mine development and infrastructure is
depreciated on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives.
Other
non-mining assets are recorded at cost and depreciated on a straight-line basis
over their estimated useful lives as follows:
Vehicles
10 years
Furniture
and equipment 3 years
The
carrying amounts of the group's assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date
to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If such indication
exists, the asset's recoverable amount is estimated.
9
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
2.
SUMMARY
OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
(Continued)
Use of Estimates
The
preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make
estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities and the reported
amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results
could differ from those estimates.
Earnings Per Share
In
February 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued SFAS No.
128 Earnings Per Share which requires the Company to present basic and diluted
earnings per share for all periods presented. The computation of loss per
common share (basic and diluted) is based on the weighted average number of shares
actually outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share have been
calculated to give effect to the number of additional shares of common stock
that would have been outstanding if the potential dilutive instruments had been
issued for the three months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008. The weighted
average number of outstanding shares includes the common stock as well as the A
Class Preference Shares, as the holders of the A Class Preference Shares have
the same rights and entitlements as those attached to the common stock. The
computation of dilutive loss per common share does not assume conversion,
exercise or contingent exercise of securities that would have an anti-dilutive
effect on earnings.
The
following table reconciles basic earnings per share and diluted earnings per
share and the related weighted average number of shares outstanding for the
three months ended March 31, 2009:
DISCLOSURE FOR RECONCILIATION
OF BASIC AND DILUTED
EARNINGS PER SHARE
For
the Three Months Ended March 31, 2009
Income Shares Per-share
(
Numerator
) (
Denominator
)
Amount
Net loss $(781,822) 9,377,986
$
(0.08)
BASIC AND DILUTED
EPS
Income available
to common
stockholders $(781,822) 9,377,986
$
(0.08)
10
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
2.
SUMMARY
OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
(Continued)
Income Taxes
Deferred
income taxes are reported using the liability method. Deferred tax assets are
recognized for deductible temporary differences and deferred tax liabilities
are recognized for taxable temporary differences. Temporary differences are
the differences between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
their tax bases. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance
when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some
portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Deferred tax
assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and
rates on the date of enactment.
Foreign
Currency Translation
The
Companys functional currency is the South African Rand. The Company
translates the foreign currency financial statements of its foreign operations
by translating balance sheet accounts at the exchange rate on the balance sheet
date and the income statement accounts using the prevailing exchange rates at
the transaction date. Translation gains and losses are recorded in
stockholders equity and realized gains and losses are reflected in operations.
Exploration
Expenses
Exploration costs are
charged to operations as incurred.
11
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
2.
SUMMARY
OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
(Continued)
Impairment of
Long-Lived Assets
The
Company reviews long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangibles for
impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the
carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to
be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset
to the future net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If such
assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is
measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the
fair value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of
the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell. During the three
months ended March 31, 2009, there was no impairment of long-lived assets.
Inventories
As
described below, costs that are incurred in or that benefit the productive
process are accumulated as stockpiles and inventories. Stockpiles and
inventories are carried at the lower of average cost or net realizable value.
Net realizable value represents the estimated future sales price of the product
based on current and long-term metals prices, less the estimated costs to
complete production and bring the product to sale. Write-downs of stockpiles and
inventories, resulting from net realizable value impairments, are reported as a
component of
Cost of production
. The major classifications are as follows:
Stockpiles
Stockpiles
represent materials that are currently in the process of being converted to a
saleable product. Conversion processes vary depending on the nature of the ore
and the specific processing facility, but include mill in-circuit, leach
in-circuit and carbon in-pulp inventories. In-process material is measured
based on assays of the material fed into the process and the projected
recoveries of the respective plants. In-process inventories are valued at the
average cost of the material fed into the process attributable to the source
material coming from the mines, stockpiles and/or leach pads plus the
in-process conversion costs, including applicable depreciation relating to the
process facilities incurred to that point in the process.
Precious
Metals In process
Precious
metals in process is gold bullion. Precious metals that result from the
Companys mining and processing activities are valued at the average cost of
the respective in-process inventories incurred prior to the refining process,
plus applicable refining costs.
Revenue
Recognition
Revenue
is recognized, net of treatment charges, from a sale when the price is
determinable, the product has been delivered, the title has been transferred to
the customer and collection of the sales price is reasonably assured.
12
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
2.
SUMMARY
OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
(Continued)
Deferred
Stripping Costs
In
general, mining costs are allocated to production costs and inventories, and
are charged to c
osts of production
when
gold is sold. However, at open pit mines with diverse grades and waste-to-ore
ratios over the mine life, the Company defers and amortizes certain mining
costs on a UOP basis over the life of the mine. These mining costs, which are
commonly referred to as deferred stripping costs, are incurred in mining
activities that are normally associated with the removal of waste rock. The
deferred stripping accounting method is generally accepted in the mining
industry where mining operations have diverse grades and waste-to-ore ratios;
however, industry practice does vary. Deferred stripping matches the costs of
production with the sale of such production at the Companys operations where
it is employed, by assigning each ounce of gold with an equivalent amount of
waste removal cost.
If the
Company were to expense stripping costs as incurred, there could be greater
volatility in the Companys period-to-period results of operations.
Deferred
stripping
costs are charged to
Costs
of Production
as gold is produced and
sold using the UOP method based on estimated recoverable ounces of proven and
probable gold, using a stripping ratio calculated as the ratio of total tons to
be moved to total proven and probable ore reserves, which results in the
recognition of the costs of waste removal activities over the life of the mine
as gold is produced.
The
Company reviews and evaluates its deferred stripping costs for impairment when
events or circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be
recoverable.
As the
Companys open pit operations ceased by end-2008, the Company did not measure
and recognize production stage deferred stripping costs and credits for the three
months period ended March 31, 2009.
Reclamation
and Remediation Costs (Asset Retirement Obligations)
In
August 2001, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
(SFAS) No. 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations, which
established a uniform methodology for accounting for estimated reclamation and
abandonment costs. Reclamation costs are allocated to expense over the life of
the related assets and are adjusted for changes resulting from the passage of
time and revisions to either the timing or amount of the original present value
estimate. Prior to adoption of SFAS No. 143, estimated future reclamation costs
were based principally on legal and regulatory requirements. Such costs related
to active mines are accrued and charged over the expected operating lives of
the mines using the UOP method based on proven and probable reserves. Future
remediation costs for inactive mines are accrued based on managements best
estimate at the end of each period of the undiscounted costs expected to be
incurred at a site. Such cost estimates included, where applicable, ongoing
care, maintenance and monitoring costs. Changes in estimates at inactive mines
are reflected in earnings in the period an estimate is revised.
13
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
2.
SUMMARY
OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
(Continued)
Stock
Option Expense
Compensation
cost recognized includes: (a) compensation cost for all share-based payments
granted prior to, which have since vested as of January 1, 2006, based on the
grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with the original provisions of
FAS 123, and (b) compensation cost for all share-based payments granted
subsequent to January 1, 2006, which have vested based on the grant-date fair
value estimated in accordance with the provisions of FAS 123(R).
Fair Value
Accounting
In
September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued FASB
Statement No. 157, Fair Value Measurements (FAS 157). FAS 157 defines fair
value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted
accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.
The provisions of FAS 157 were adopted January 1, 2008. In February 2008, the
FASB staff issued Staff Position No. 157-2 Effective Date of FASB Statement
No. 157 (FSP FAS 157-2). FSP FAS 157-2 delayed the effective date of FAS
157 for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except for items that
are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a
recurring basis (at least annually). The provisions of FSP FAS 157-2 are
effective for the Companys fiscal year beginning January 1, 2009.
FAS
157 establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation
techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest
priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or
liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs
(Level 3 measurements). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy under FAS
157 are described below:
Level
1 Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at
the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities;
Level
2 Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are
observable, either directly or indirectly for substantially the full term of
the asset or liability;
Level
3 Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both
significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (supported by little
or no market activity).
The
following table sets forth the Companys financial assets and liabilities
measured at fair value by level within the fair value hierarchy. As required by
FAS 157, assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the
lowest level of output that is significant to the fair value measurement.
14
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
2.
SUMMARY
OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
(Continued)
Fair
Value Accounting
(Continued)
|
|
Fair Value at March 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
(in thousands)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
|
Level 1
|
|
|
Level 2
|
|
|
Level 3
|
Assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash
|
|
$
|
1
|
|
$
|
1
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
$
|
-
|
Other assets
|
|
|
25,669
|
|
|
25,669
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
25,670
|
|
$
|
$25,670
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
$
|
-
|
Liabilities
:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts payable and other
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
current liabilities
|
|
$
|
2,207
|
|
$
|
2,207
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
$
|
-
|
Advances from stockholders
|
|
|
114
|
|
|
114
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
-
|
Short term
loans
|
|
|
15,966
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
15,966
|
|
|
-
|
Long term liabilities
|
|
|
1,345
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
1,345
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
$
|
19,632
|
|
$
|
2,321
|
|
$
|
17,311
|
|
$
|
-
|
The
Companys cash and certain other assets are classified within Level 1 of the
fair value hierarchy since they are valued using quoted market prices. The
cash and certain other assets that are valued based on quoted market prices in
active markets are primarily money market securities.
The
Companys accounts payable and other current liabilities and advances from
stockholders are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy since
they occur with sufficient frequency and volume to
provide pricing information on an ongoing basis.
The Companys short term loans and long term liabilities are
classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy since they have a
specified (contractual) term.
The
total amount of the changes in fair value for the period was included in net
loss as a result of changes from December 31, 2008.
In
February 2007, the FASB issued FASB Statement No. 159, The Fair Value Option
for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (FAS 159) permits entities to
choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair
value, with the objective of improving financial reporting by mitigating
volatility in reported earnings caused by measuring related assets and
liabilities differently without having to apply complex hedge accounting
provisions. The provisions of FAS 159 were adopted January 1, 2008. The
Company did not elect the Fair Value Option for any of its financial assets or
liabilities, and therefore, the adoption of FAS 159 had no impact on the
Companys consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In April 23, 2009,
the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued FASB Staff Position
(FSP) Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) 157-4,
Determining Fair Value
When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have
Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That Are Not Orderly.
Based
on guidance, if an entity determines that the level of activity for an asset or
liability has significantly decreased and that a transaction is not orderly,
further analysis of transactions or quoted prices is needed, and a significant
adjustment to the transaction or quoted prices may be necessary to estimate
fair value in accordance with the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
(SFAS) No. 157
Fair Value Measurements
. This FSP is to be applied
prospectively and is effective for interim and annual periods ending after June
15, 2009 with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009.
The company will adopt this FSP for its quarter ending June 30, 2009. There is
no expected impact on the Companys financial statements.
In April 2009, the
FASB issued FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2,
Recognition and Presentation of
Other-Than-Temporary Impairments.
The guidance applies to investments in
debt securities for which other-than-temporary impairments may be recorded. If
an entitys management asserts that it does not have the intent to sell a debt
security and it is more likely than not that it will not have to sell the
security before recovery of its cost basis, then an entity may separate
other-than-temporary impairments into two components: 1) the amount related to
credit losses (recorded in earnings), and 2) all other amounts (recorded in
other comprehensive income). This FSP is to be applied prospectively and is
effective for interim and annual periods ending after June 15, 2009 with early
adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009. The company will
adopt this FSP for its quarter ended June 30, 2009. There is no expected impact
on the Companys financial statements.
In April 2009, the
FASB issued FSP FAS 107-1 and Accounting Principles Board (APB) 28-1,
Interim
Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments.
The FSP amends FSAS
No. 107 Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments to require an
entity to provide disclosures about fair value of financial instruments in
interim financial instruments in interim financial information. This FSP is to
be applied prospectively and is effective for interim and annual periods ending
after June 15, 2009 with early adoption permitted for periods ending after
March 15, 2009. The company will include the required disclosures in its
quarter ending June 30, 2009.
In December 2007, the
FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (R),
Business Combinations,
which became
effective January 1, 2009 via prospective application to business combinations.
This Statement requires that the acquisition method of accounting be applied to
a broader set of business combinations, amends the definition of a business
combination, provides a definition of a business, requires an acquirer to
recognize an acquired business at its fair value at the acquisition date and
requires the assets and liabilities assumed in a business combination to be
measured and recognized at their fair values as of the acquisition date (with
limited exceptions). The company adopted this Statement on January 1, 2009.
There was no impact upon adoption , and its effects on future periods will
depend on the nature and significance of business combinations subject to this
statement.
In April 2009, the
FASB issued FSP FAS 141 (R)-1,
Accounting for Assets Acquired and
Liabilities Assumed in a Business Combination That Arise from Contingencies.
This FSP requires that assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business
combination that arise from contingencies be recognized at fair value if fair
value can be reasonably estimated. If fair value cannot be reasonably
estimated, the asset or liability would generally be recognized in accordance
with SFAS No. 5, Accounting for Contingencies and FASB Interpretation No. 14,
Reasonable Estimation of the Amount of a Loss. Further, the FASB removed the
subsequent accounting guidance for assets and liabilities arising from
contingencies from SFAS no. 141(R). The requirements of this FSP carry forward
without significant revision the guidance on contingencies of SFAS No. 141,
Business Combinations, which was superseded by SFAS No. 141(R) (see previous
paragraph). The FSP also eliminates the requirement to disclose an estimate of
the range of possible outcomes of recognized contingencies at the acquisition
date. For unrecognized contingencies, the FASB requires that entities include
only the disclosures required by SFAS No. 5. This FSP was adopted effective
January 1, 2009. There was no impact upon adoption, and its effects on future
periods will depend on the nature and significance of business combinations
subject to this statement.
In April 2008, the
FASB issued FSP FAS 142-3,
Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible
Assets.
The FSP states that in developing assumptions about renewal or
extension options used to determine the useful life of an intangible asset, an
entity needs to consider its own historical experience adjusted for
entity-specific factors. In the absence of that experience, an entity shall
consider the assumptions that market participants would used about renewal or
extension options. This FSP is to be applied to intangible assets acquired
after January 1, 2009. The adoption of this FSP did not have an impact on the
Companys financial statements.
15
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
3.
GOING
CONCERN
The accompanying consolidated financial statements
have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted
in the United States of America, which contemplate continuation of the Company
as a going concern. The Company has sustained net losses of $781,822 for the three
months ended March 31, 2009. Net cash used in operations for the three months ended
March 31, 2009 was $467,129. The Company also has an accumulated deficit of $11,978,698
and a working capital deficit of $17,381,521 at March 31, 2009.
The items discussed above raise substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. If the Company's financial resources are insufficient, the Company may require additional financing in order to execute its business plan and support its operations. The Company cannot predict whether this additional financing will be in the form of equity, debt or another form. The Company may not be able to obtain the necessary additional capital on a timely basis, on acceptable terms, or at all. Should financing sources fail to materialize, management would seek alternate funding sources such as the sale of common and/or preferred stock, the issuance of debt or other means. The Company plans to attempt to address its working capital deficiency by increasing its sales, maintaining strict expense controls and seeking strategic alliances.
In the event that these financing sources do not materialize, or the Company is unsuccessful in increasing its revenues and profits, the Company will be forced to further reduce its costs, may be unable to repay its debt obligations as they become due, or respond to competitive pressures, any of which circumstances would have a material adverse effect on its business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations. Additionally, if these funding sources or increased revenues and profits do not materialize, and the Company is unable to secure additional financing, the Company could be forced to reduce or curtail its business operations.
4.
INVENTORIES
Inventories at March
31, 2009 and December 31, 2008 consist of the following:
|
|
March 31, 2009
|
|
December 31, 2008
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gold in hand
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
$
|
146,364
|
Precious metals in process
|
|
|
281,017
|
|
|
187,259
|
Stockpiles
|
|
|
192,485
|
|
|
24,154
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
473,502
|
|
$
|
357,777
|
16
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
5.
PROPERTY,
PLANT AND MINE DEVELOPMENT
Major classes of property, plant, and mine development
as of March 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008 are as follows:
|
|
March 31, 2009
|
|
December 31, 2008
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Land and buildings
|
|
$
|
372,213
|
|
$
|
379,428
|
Mining assets
|
|
|
4,520,508
|
|
|
4,608,130
|
Mine development costs
|
|
|
21,823,189
|
|
|
24,108,457
|
Mining rights
|
|
|
2,964,280
|
|
|
966,842
|
Motor vehicles
|
|
|
79,856
|
|
|
81,404
|
Furniture and equipment
|
|
|
157,886
|
|
|
160,946
|
Metallurgical plant
|
|
|
4,119,993
|
|
|
4,199,851
|
Plant and equipment
|
|
|
252,127
|
|
|
50,224
|
Environmental
rehabilitation fund
|
|
|
156,004
|
|
|
159,026
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
34,446,056
|
|
34,714,308
|
Less: accumulated
depreciation
|
|
(10,222,166)
|
|
(10,131,067)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net
property and equipment
|
|
$
|
24,223,890
|
|
$
|
24,583,241
|
Depreciation,
depletion and amortization expense is $124,680 and $135,841 for the three
months ended March 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
17
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
6.
SHORT
TERM LOANS
Short term loans at March
31, 2009 and December 31, 2008 consist of the following:
|
|
March 31, 2009
|
|
December 31, 2008
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Phoenix Gold Fund and Asian
Investment Management Services Ltd
|
|
$
|
3,891,304
|
|
$
|
3,822,724
|
Investec Bank Limited
|
|
|
9,549,764
|
|
|
9,364,097
|
Kestrel S.A.
|
|
|
2,167,635
|
|
|
2,163,728
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
15,608,703
|
|
$
|
15,350,549
|
On March 28, 2008,
the Companys wholly owned subsidiary EGSA entered into a Convertible Loan Agreement
(the Agreement) with Phoenix Gold Fund and Asian Investment Management
Services Ltd, collectively referred to as the Lenders.
The Loan amounting to
R32 million ($3,361,768 as of March 31, 2009) received on April 18, 2008 is
termed as pre-listing funds prior to EGSAs intended listing on the
Johannesburg Stock Exchange within twelve months from the date of this
Agreement.
For
the purposes of this Agreement, EGSA has been ascribed a value of R432 million
and the percentage shareholding that will be issued to the Lenders in order to
discharge the Loan has been calculated accordingly.
The
loan principal can convert into 6.9% of the total issued and outstanding shares
of the ordinary capital of EGSA after the conversion of the loan by EGSA.
Conditions relating to interest payments are as follows:
If EGSA is able to list its shares
with the JSE Limited (JSE) within six months of the agreement date then no
interest is due and payable.
If EGSA is not able to list its
ordinary shares with the JSE within six months of the agreement date then
interest will accrue at the South African Prime Lending Rate.
If EGSA lists its ordinary shares
with the JSE after six months but before twelve months of the agreement date,
then interest will accrue and be paid on a monthly basis until conversion or
repayment of the loan.
If
EGSA has been unable to list its ordinary shares with the JSE within twelve
months of the agreement date, then the lender can demand repayment of principal
and accrued interest or conversion of the debt into the corresponding ordinary
shares of EGSA. Accordingly, the loan balance outstanding at March 31, 2009
includes $529,536 of accrued interest. The Company is currently renegotiating
the terms of the agreement with the lender.
18
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
6.
SHORT
TERM LOANS
(Continued)
On May 27, 2008, the Companys wholly owned subsidiary
EGSA obtained R80 million ($8,404,421 as of March 31, 2009) six month bridging
loan facility (facility) from Investec Bank Ltd. (Investec) for the acquisition
of Barbrook Mines Ltd. On October 30, 2008, this facility was renegotiated and
the Company received a commitment letter agreement from Investec. Under the
terms of this agreement, Investec has agreed to extend the maturity date of the
Companys existing bridging loan (the Existing Loan) from the original
maturity date of November 28, 2008 to May 29, 2009 (the Loan Extension).
As consideration for the Loan Extension, the Company
agreed to the following:
i.
To grant Investec 820,000 Common
Stock Purchase Warrants for the purchase of 820,000 shares of the Companys
Common Stock at an exercise price equal to the lower of $3.75 per share and the
price at which the Company raises equity capital in its next offering;
ii.
To increase the interest rate on
the Existing Loan from Jibar plus 3% to Jibar plus 4%;
iii.
To confirm that the Company has
sufficient working capital for the period through the last date of the Loan
Extension;
iv.
To subordinate all shareholder
loans to the Existing Loan;
v.
To prohibit the payment of any
interest and principal on all shareholder loans;
vi.
To prohibit further indebtedness
without the prior written approval of Investec; and
vii.
To provide Investec on or before
the 5th calendar day of each month, monthly management accounts and an update
on the Companys financing strategy and provide Investec with an opportunity to
review the strategy with Investec, upon Investecs request.
The
loan balance outstanding at March 31, 2009 includes $1,145,343 of accrued
interest.
On August
25, 2008, the Company obtained a Swiss Francs 2,200,000 ($2,061,650 as of March
31, 2009) six month loan from a shareholder, Kestrel SA (Kestrel), for
purposes of working capital requirements. Interest on the loan is 15% p.a.
calculated on the outstanding balance and compounded monthly in arrears. In
addition, on August 22, 2008, the Company entered into a Common Stock Purchase
Warrant Agreement with Kestrel whereby Kestrel is entitled to purchase up to
Fifty Thousand (50,000) shares of Common Stock (par value $0.001 per share)
from the Company upon payment to the Company of Five Dollars ($5.00) per share.
Warrants may be purchased at any time on or after August 20, 2008 but all
rights to purchase the Shares and to exercise this Warrant shall expire on
August 21, 2011 after which it shall become void and all rights hereunder shall
thereupon cease. The repayment of the loan was extended to June 30, 2009.
The
loan balance outstanding at March 31, 2009 includes $105,985 of accrued
interest.
19
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
7.
LONG
TERM LIABILITIES
Standard
Bank Vehicle and Asset Finance
Less:
Current portion
|
$
|
1,703,180
(357,725)
|
|
$
|
1,345,455
|
Secured by installment sale agreements over certain
mining equipment, bearing interest at the prime bank overdraft rate less 1% and
repayable in monthly installments of R547,956 ($57,566), including interest.
Maturities
of the liabilities are as follows:
For the year ending December 31:
2009
2010
2011
2002
|
|
|
|
$
|
357,725
533,671
574,895
236,889
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
1,703,180
|
8.
RECLAMATION
AND REMEDIATION
The
Companys mining and exploration activities are subject to various laws and
regulations governing the protection of the environment. These laws and
regulations are continually changing and are generally becoming more
restrictive. The Company conducts its operations so as to protect the public
health and environment and believes its operations are in compliance with
applicable laws and regulations in all material respects. The Company has made,
and expects to make in the future, expenditures to comply with such laws and
regulations, but cannot predict the full amount of such future expenditures.
Estimated future reclamation costs are based principally on legal and
regulatory requirements.
At
March 31, 2009 $346,262 were accrued for reclamation obligations relating
to currently or recently producing mineral properties.
The
following is a reconciliation of the total liability for reclamation and
remediation:
Balance, December 31, 2008
Reduction,
change in estimate and other
Liabilities
settled
Accretion
expense
|
|
|
|
$
|
352,974
(6,712)
-
-
|
Balance, March 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
$
|
346,262
|
20
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
9.
COMMITMENTS
AND CONTINGENCIES
A
first continuing covering bond in the amount of South African Rands 200,000
($21,011) was registered over the property held by a subsidiary, Makonjwaan
Properties Henry Nettman Two Eight (Pty) Ltd., in lieu of financial guarantees
amounting to South African Rands 164,000 ($17,229) issued in favor of the
Department of Minerals and Energy.
During
the year ended December 31, 2006, the Company entered into a Service and
Support Agreement with Cheston Minerals PTY Limited (CML), a company owned by
EGIs President. This agreement covers the rental of the Companys South
African office and use of the office equipment and supplies, which are owned by
CML. The term of the agreement is one year and is renewable on an annual
basis. The Company charged $49,500 to operating expense for the three months
ended March 31, 2009.
Our recently acquired
subsidiary, Barbrook Mines, was subject to several claims brought against it by
creditors during 2006 and 2007 fiscal years. These claims, which had been
accrued for at 2007 year end, were in the main settled and the matters finalized.
In the matter with Sentinel Corporate Solutions (Pty) Limited, Sentinel has
issued summons against Barbrook for R1,108,061 (approximately $116,000) in
respect of amounts payable, which are accrued for, in respect of a labor
contract. Barbrook has instituted an action against Sentinel for R7,456,465
(approximately $783,000) in respect of damages incurred when the labor force
set fire to the Barbrook administration building. Both matters with Sentinel
are presently still being defended and are not yet finalized.
10.
MINORITY
INTEREST
The
current South African mining legislation promulgated under Mineral and
Petroleum Resources Development Act of 2004 (MPRDA) seeks, among other
things, (i) to expand opportunities for historically disadvantaged South
Africans to enter the mineral industry and obtain benefits from the
exploitation of mineral resources; and (ii) to promote employment, social and
economic welfare as well as ecologically sustainable development. In order to
convert an old order mining right to a new order mining right the holder is
required to submit a social and labor plan. The plan should describe how it
will expand opportunities for historically disadvantaged South Africans to
enter the mineral industry.
Further,
for purposes of mining right conversions effective May 1, 2004 (the effective
date), the MPRDA (incorporating the Mining Charter) requires mining company
ownership for historically disadvantaged South Africans to 15% ownership within
five years and 26% ownership within 10 years of the effective date. The
transfer of ownership is to be consummated at fair market value.
Accordingly,
and pursuant to the requirements of MPRDA, EGL on December 9, 2005 entered into
a Heads of Agreement to sell 26% of its ordinary stock to Lomshiyo
Investments (Proprietary) Limited (Lomshiyo) for a consideration of
R9,900,000 (At March 31, 2009 $1,040,047). The transaction closed on
February 2, 2006. Further, and upon the acquisition of Barbrook on May 30,
2008, a similar agreement was concluded with Lomshiyo on December 15, 2008
amounting to R20,800,000 (At March 31, 2009 $2,185,149).
21
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
10.
MINORITY
INTEREST
(Continued)
These
two amounts are classified as loans to Lomshiyo and are reflected as a
reduction of equity in the Companys March 31, 2009 consolidated balance
sheet. Lomshiyo is a South African corporation whose majority shareholders are
historically disadvantaged South Africans.
The
purchase of ordinary stock was financed with a note receivable bearing an
annual interest rate of the South African Prime Rate (15% at March 31, 2009).
The note accrues interest and is payable to the Company on January 2, of each
year. A total of $637,477 of accrued interest has been added to the note
receivable. The note is due and payable on December 31, 2010. The Companys
common stock collateralizes the note receivable.
11.
CONVERTIBLE
LOAN
In December
2008, the Company approved a private placement of up to $2,000,000 at a price
of $3 per Common Stock and Common Stock Purchase Warrants with an exercise price
of $3. This private placement was closed on March 15, 2009, and funds received
from subscribers amounted to $1,633,554 (net of $29,134 in commissions)
representing 554,228 of Common Stock. The issuing of the share certificates is
in progress.
12.
STOCK
OPTIONS
Employee Stock Options
The
Company currently maintains the Eastern Goldfields, Inc. 2005 Stock Plan
(Stock Plan), approved by stockholders on November 26, 2005, for
executives and eligible employees. Under this Stock Plan, options to purchase
shares of stock can be granted with exercise prices not less than 100% of fair
market value of the underlying stock at the date of grant. Options granted
under the Companys stock plan vest over periods ranging from one to three
years of the date of the grant and are exercisable over a period of time not to
exceed 10 years from grant date. At December 31, 2006, no shares were
available for future grants under the Companys 2005 Stock Incentive Plan.
The following table summarizes annual activity for all
stock options for each of the two years ended December 31:
22
EASTERN
GOLDFIELDS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2008
(Unaudited)
12.
STOCK
OPTIONS
(Continued)
Employee Stock Options
(Continued)
|
2008
|
|
2007
|
|
Number of Shares
|
|
Weighted Average Exercise Price
|
|
Number of Shares
|
|
Weighted Average Exercise Price
|
Outstanding,
beginning
of the period
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited
and expired
|
|
850,000
-
-
-
|
|
$
|
1.50
-
-
-
|
|
|
850,000
-
-
-
|
|
$
|
1.50
-
-
-
|
Outstanding,
end of the period
|
|
850,000
|
|
$
|
1.50
|
|
|
850,000
|
|
$
|
1.50
|
Options
exercisable, end of year
Weighted
average fair value of options granted during the period
|
$
|
833,000
-
|
|
$
|
1.50
|
|
$
$
|
550,000
$-
|
|
$
|
1.50
|
The
fair value of the stock options granted (and vested) during the years ended
December 31, 2008 and 2007, was approximately $0 and $0 or $0 and $0 per stock
option, respectively, and was determined using the Black Scholes option pricing
model. The factors used for the years ended December 31, 2008, were the option
exercise price of $1.50 per share, a 3 year life of the options, volatility
measure of 43.77% (2007 50%), a dividend rate of 0% and a risk free interest
rate of 2.10% (2007 - 4.55%).
The following table
summarizes information about stock options outstanding at December 31,
2008, with exercise prices less than the fair market value on the date of grant
with no restrictions on exercisability after vesting:
|
|
Options Outstanding
|
|
|
|
Options Exercisable
|
Range of Exercise Prices
|
|
Number
Outstanding
|
|
Weighted-
average
Remaining
Contractual
Life
(in years)
|
|
Weighted-
average
Exercise
Price
|
|
Number
Exercisable
|
|
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
|
$1.50
|
|
850,000
|
|
9
|
|
$
|
1.50
|
|
833,000
|
|
$
|
1.50
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As of
March 31, 2009, there were approximately $NIL of unrecognized compensation cost
related to unvested stock options. This cost is expected to be recognized over
a weighted average period of 0.6 years.
13.
COMMON STOCK
On November 21, 2008, the Board of
Directors approved the issuance of 300,000 Special Shares to certain employees
in payment of the services that the Company had received. Of the total 300,000
Special Shares, 200,000 related to South African employees, and, in accordance
with the South African Exchange Regulations, 200,000 Class A Preference Shares
in the South African subsidiary EGSA had been issued. The corresponding 200,000
shares in EGI and the balance of 100,000 shares of EGI to non-South African
employees are in the process of being issued.
On February 16, 2009, 554,228 shares
of restricted common stock at $3.00 per share and 554,228 Common Stock Purchase
Warrants in the form of a unit security at $3.00 per unit were issued for cash
for a total offering of $1,662,684 less offering costs of $29,134 totaling
$1,633,550. These share certificates were issued on May 7, 2009.
14.
SUBSEQUENT EVENT
On April 30, 2009 the Company entered
into the Restated Convertible Loan and Option Agreement (the "Restated
Agreement") with Asian Investment Management Services, Limited ("AIMS"). The
Restated Agreement provides that AIMS will; (A) provide technical and corporate
assistance to the Company's subsidiary, EGSA, in connection with EGSA's
strategies and objectives; (B) make available additional funds as an "Additional
Loan" no later than May 29, 2009 in an amount not to exceed 93,000,000 (South
African Rand) to EGSA so as to allow EGSA to pay all amounts due Investec Bank
Limited under the Investec Loan and for EGSA to cancel the security given by or
on behalf of EGSA to Investec Bank including, but not limited to, the Borrower's
Cession and the Guarantee; (C) convert the Additional Loan and the existing
convertible loan of March 31, 2008 in the amount of 32,000,000 (South African
Rand) that EGSA received from AIMS and the Phoenix Gold Fund (as amended on
March 27, 2009) (the "Original Loan"), both consolidated and totaling
125,000,000 (South African Rand) into 40% of the outstanding common shares of
either EGSA or such other entity as the parties agree for purposes of the
planned listing of the common stock of the Company and its subsidiaries (or such
other entity as the Company and AIMS may determine by subsequent agreement)
pursuant to the Listing Commitment. The Restated Agreement also grants AIMS a
right of first refusal which provides that the Company shall not obtain any
additional funding from any other source unless the Company has first offered
AIMS the opportunity to provide such additional funding on no less favorable
terms and conditions and AIMS has, after thirty days from the date of receipt of
notice, declined to exercise its right of first refusal.
23
MATTER OF FORWARD-LOOKING
STATEMENTS
THIS FORM 10-Q CONTAINS "FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS" THAT CAN BE IDENTIFIED BY THE
USE OF FORWARD-LOOKING WORDS SUCH AS "BELIEVES," "EXPECTS," "MAY," "WILL,"
"SHOULD," OR "ANTICIPATES," OR THE NEGATIVE OF THESE WORDS
OR OTHER VARIATIONS OF THESE WORDS OR COMPARABLE WORDS, OR BY DISCUSSIONS OF
PLANS OR STRATEGY THAT INVOLVE RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES. MANAGEMENT WISHES TO
CAUTION THE READER THAT THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS, INCLUDING, BUT NOT
LIMITED TO, STATEMENTS REGARDING THE COMPANYS MARKETING PLANS, GOALS,
COMPETITIVE CONDITIONS, REGULATIONS THAT AFFECT PUBLIC COPMPANIES THAT HAVE NO
EXISTING BUSINESS AND OTHER MATTERS THAT ARE NOT HISTORICAL FACTS ARE ONLY
PREDICTIONS. NO ASSURANCES CAN BE GIVEN THAT SUCH PREDICTIONS WILL PROVE
CORRECT OR THAT THE ANTICIPATED FUTURE RESULTS WILL BE ACHIEVED. ACTUAL EVENTS
OR RESULTS MAY DIFFER MATERIALLY EITHER BECAUSE ONE OR MORE PREDICTIONS PROVE
TO BE ERRONEOUS OR AS A RESULT OF OTHER RISKS FACING THE COMPANY.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS SHOULD BE READ IN LIGHT OF THE CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS
AND IMPORTANT FACTORS DESCRIBED IN THIS FORM 10-Q FOR EASTERN GOLDFIELDS, INC.,
INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE MATTERS SET FORTH IN MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION
AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS. THE RISKS
INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO, THE RISK FACTORS AND UNCERTAINTIES SET FORTH
IN ITEM 1A, RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH A SMALL COMPANY THAT HAS ONLY A LIMITED
HISTORY OF OPERATIONS, THE COMPARATIVELY LIMITED FINANCIAL RESOURCES OF THE
COMPANY, THE INTENSE COMPETITION THE COMPANY FACES FROM OTHER ESTABLISHED
COMPETITORS, ANY ONE OR MORE OF THESE OR OTHER RISKS COULD CAUSE ACTUAL RESULTS
TO DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THE FUTURE RESULTS INDICATED, EXPRESSED, OR IMPLIED
IN SUCH FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. WE UNDERTAKE NO OBLIGATION TO UPDATE OR
REVISE ANY FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENT TO REFLECT EVENTS, CIRCUMSTANCES, OR NEW
INFORMATION AFTER THE DATE OF THIS FORM 10-Q OR TO REFLECT THE OCCURRENCE OF
UNANTICIPATED OR OTHER SUBSEQUENT EVENTS.
As
used herein, the term the Company, we, us, and our refer to Eastern
Goldfields, Inc., a Nevada corporation and its subsidiaries unless otherwise
noted.
Item
2. Plan of Operation.
Critical
Accounting Policies and Estimates.
Our
Plan of Operations section discusses our unaudited consolidated financial
statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these
financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as the date of the
financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during
the reporting period. On an on-going basis, management evaluates its estimates
and judgments, including those related to revenue recognition, accrued
expenses, financing operations, and contingencies and litigation. Management
bases its estimates and judgments on historical experience and on various other
factors that are believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results
of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets
and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual
results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or
conditions. The most significant accounting estimates inherent in the
preparation of our financial statements include estimates as to the appropriate
carrying value of certain assets and liabilities which are not readily apparent
from other sources.
These
accounting policies are described at relevant sections in this discussion and
analysis and in the notes to the financial statements included in our Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2009
24
Our strategy, to the extent that we are able, is to
grow our mineral reserves through optimization of current operations, exploration
and prudent acquisitions. The following is a summary of the actions and
strategies that we implemented in 2008:
Development of the Lily Mine operation
Acquisitions
Exploration
Growth and Expansion
Lily Mine
Our primary focus, to the extent that we are able, is
to develop the underground mine at Lily. Primary development of the initial
underground section began in June 2007 and full conversion from open pit mining
to underground mining commenced in January 2009. All of Lily Mines gold
production since January 2009 is being derived from underground operations. To
date, some 2,400 meters of underground development has been completed. This
underground tonnage will be treated at the current Makonjwaan mill for the next
two years. The acquisition of the nearby Barbrook Mine, discussed below, with
a dormant processing plant has altered the original strategy of building a new
plant at the Lily Mine site. The Barbrook processing plant, which is in the
process of being refurbished, will be used to process the ore from Lily Mines
underground mining operation.
If our estimates and operating conditions can be
maintained and assuming no interruptions in our plans. we anticipate that Lily
underground operations may ramp up to full production of around 30,000 tons per
month by mid 2010. If current operating levels can be maintained and if we are
successful in meeting the challenges and uncertainties that we face, we expect
to produce approximately 14,000 ounces of gold in 2009 for gross revenue of
approximately $12,450,000 increasing to approximately 35,000 ounces of gold per
year in years 2011 through 2023 for gross annual revenue of approximately
$31,400,000 (using a projected gold price of $900/oz.). These are only
estimates and are subject to change and fluctuating market conditions. The
results of the Bankable Feasibility Study (BFS) completed in March 2008,
include an estimate that the Lily Mine has a life of at least 15 years based on
existing mineral reserves.
The Lily Main Pit opencast operation:
-
Commenced
in June 2000 and was closed in October 2006. During this period,
1,012,000 tonnes were successfully extracted at an average grade of 2.89
grams of gold per ton.
-
The
closure of the Lily Main open pit was timed to coincide with extraction of
oxidized ore from the Lily East pit. Mining continued until August 2007
before the pit was closed due to unstable high wall conditions. During
this period a total of 96,347 tons were extracted having an average grade
of 2.27 grams of gold per ton.
-
Open
pit production commenced at Rosies Fortune in July 2007. This open pit
was initially planned to be mined until May 2008 but was found to be
sufficiently productive to be continued until December 2008. A total of
180,572 tonnes were extracted at an average grade of 2.22 grams of gold
per ton.
The strategy behind extending open pit mining
operations after closure of the Main pit in October 2006 was to maintain cash
flow while establishing and preparing the underground workings for production.
This was done with the expectation that the Lily East and Rosies Fortune open
pit operations would be marginal but profitable.
25
The following table summarizes the tons milled, gold
produced and operating profit (loss) for the life of the open pit operations to
December 2008.
Period
|
Ore
Milled
|
Au Produced
|
Average Grade Produced
|
Operating Profit/(loss)
|
Year
|
mths
|
T
|
Kg
|
oz
|
g/t
|
oz/t
|
US$
|
2000/01
|
9
|
120,000
|
240
|
7,700
|
1.99
|
0.062
|
338,087
|
2001/02
|
12
|
154,000
|
309
|
9,900
|
2.00
|
0.063
|
647,117
|
2002/03
|
12
|
153,000
|
343
|
11,000
|
2.36
|
0.074
|
1,049,173
|
2003/04
|
12
|
131,000
|
241
|
7,700
|
1.84
|
0.057
|
(541,559)
|
2004
|
9
|
116,000
|
230
|
7,400
|
1.98
|
0.062
|
(743,916)
|
2005
|
12
|
168,000
|
398
|
12,800
|
2.37
|
0.074
|
420,522
|
2006
|
12
|
166,200
|
377
|
12,100
|
2.27
|
0.071
|
2,278,341
|
2007
|
12
|
160,000
|
322
|
10,400
|
2.32
|
0.072
|
1,660,754
|
2008
|
12
|
154,000
|
242
|
7,800
|
1.58
|
0.051
|
846,214
|
TOTAL
|
|
1,322,200
|
2,702
|
86,800
|
2.09
|
0.064
|
5,954,733
|
(1)
Prior to March 31, 2004, 12 month accounting periods were from April 1 to March 31
(2)
2005 represents the first year of
change to the accounting period or fiscal year based on a calendar year
The extensive exploration diamond drilling programs
completed since 2005 up to the end of 2008 have successfully increased the
mineral reserves of the Lily Mine to the extent that a full Bankable
Feasibility Study has been completed giving the entire project a very positive
NPV and IRR at a conservative medium term gold price of US$800/ounce. 82
diamond drill holes (with wedges), totaling in excess of 28,800 meters of
drilling, have increased reserves from 210,000 ounces at the end of 2004 to an
estimated 565,000 ounces by the end of 2008. The discovery cost is remarkably
low at an estimated +/-US$2.00 per ounce during this exploration period.
The aim of this extensive
drilling exercise was twofold:
To extend Mineral
Reserves along strike and in depth. The drilling has successfully identified
the mineralized zone over 2,000 meters of horizontal strike to 600 meters of
vertical depth below surface.
To infill between
existing drill intersections in certain areas, thereby upgrading the estimation
confidence of the Mineral Reserves within the planned underground section of
the extended Lily ore body.
The resultant revised Reserves
allow for a Life of Mine of 15 years with a production capacity of 32,000 tons
per month.
To the extent that we are able and provided that we
can implement our current plans, we anticipate that exploration will continue
on the mine property both from surface and later from underground as the mine
develops in depth to continue increasing the reserve potential.
There can be no assurance that we will be successful
in implementing these plans or the plan of operations described in this Form
10-Q. We face many risks and uncertainties and we have only a limited history
of operations. See Item 1A. Risk Factors
26
Acquisitions
If circumstances and our financial resources allow, we
intend to make strategic acquisitions in the next few years with the objective
of increasing its production to 100,000 oz/annum. We continue to investigate
potential opportunities. We cannot assure you that we will achieve these or
other goals or if we achieve them, that we can sustain any such achievement for
any period in the future.
Barbrook
Mine:
As disclosed in our Form 8-K,
on February 21, 2008 we entered into an agreement to purchase Barbrook Mine.
This offer was accepted by the seller corporation,
Maid 'O The Mist (Proprietary) Limited, a company
incorporated in the Republic of South Africa and a subsidiary of Caledonia
Mining Corporation Limited (Caledonia), a company incorporated in Canada
. The acquisition was completed on May 30, 2008.
The acquisition of Barbrook has had the following
twofold positive impact on EGI:
The planned underground mining
operations at Lily Mine, as reported in the BFS (March 2008), required the
construction of a new processing plant on site. The existing processing plant
at Barbrook, once refurbished, will substitute for a new plant. The purchase
price of Barbrook was less than half the budgeted cost for the proposed new
plant. The plant, complete with a large slimes dam, is located less than half
the distance from Lily Mine (6 km) than its current operating Makonjwaan plant
facility (17 km).
Barbrook contains substantial
mineralized assets and a well developed underground infrastructure including
some 50 km of development and readily accessible areas for mining. Extensions
to the processing plant will be required to treat the metallurgically
complicated ore bodies once mining commences at Barbrook. This is currently
being investigated. It is planned to geologically model and re-evaluate
Barbrook by commencing exploration and primary development with the objective
of bringing Barbrook Mine successfully into initial production in 2010.
Currently and based on the due diligence that we
completed to date, we believe that the Barbrook Mines Limited holds title to a
Mining Authorization covering an estimated 2,286 hectares which hosts a
consolidation of numerous small mines and claims in the historically renowned
Barberton gold mining district of South Africa. Mining at Barbrook commenced
in the 1880s. In 1996 exploration significantly improved the definition of
estimated main ore zones. Treatment of refractory ores commenced in July 1996
and continued until July 1997. A total of 166,400 tons of sulphide ore was
treated at an average rate of +/-14,000 tons per month. 311 kg of gold was
produced at a recovered grade of 1.87g/t. Both the head grade and
metallurgical recovery achieved over this period (~40%) were below target and
the mine was put on care and maintenance pending a re-evaluation of the mining
method and metallurgical process.
27
Historic
Production Barbrook Mine
Period
|
Tonnage Treated
T
|
Gold Produced
Kg
|
Gold Produced
Oz
|
Recovered Grade
g/t
|
Oct
89 Jan 91
|
220,630
|
500
|
16,075
|
2.31
|
Nov
93 Jan 95
|
490,533
|
645
|
20,740
|
1.31
|
Feb
95 May 95
|
81,130
|
131
|
4,210
|
1.62
|
Jul
96 Jul 97
|
166,397
|
311
|
10,000
|
1.87
|
2006
|
74,904
|
224
|
7,200
|
4.64
|
Total
Production
|
1,033,594
|
1,711
|
58,225
|
1.66
|
Note:
Information taken from Venmyn (Pty) Ltd Technical Statement January 2007
Based on the information we have available and
provided that current trends continue, we believe that the Barbrook Mine looks
promising. Various metallurgical test work took place between 1997-2007 which
showed that improvements to gold recoveries are achievable. A complete
re-evaluation was done in 2002. At that date, this lead to an estimate of
Proven and Probable Ore Reserves amounting to 176,000 tons at an insitu grade
of an estimated 6.0 g/t gold. All quoted Resource and Reserve estimates will
be re-evaluated by EGIs competent staff in time as additional information
becomes available
Barbrook has a well established surface infrastructure
(plant, workshops, laboratory, tailings dam, etc) and extensive underground
development (>50 km). Access to the mine is via two adits, respectively on
7 and 10 Levels, separated by 150 meters. No development exists and very
little exploration has been completed below 10 Level, which is at surface river
elevation. All ancillary utilities are operational.
If we are successful in obtaining sufficient financing
on reasonable terms and assuming that our current assessments and estimates are
not later reduced, we intend to further implement our plans for the operation
of the Barbrook Mine. However, there can be no assurance that we will be
successful in these efforts.
Prospects for the Future:
Exploration
Other
Properties
Geological exploration has continued with positive
results on the Worcester project area where continued diamond drilling has
successfully identified the continuation of the mineralized zone well below the
old workings. A further 4,180 meters of exploration
diamond drilling was completed during 2008, bringing the total amount of core
recovered since 2006 to 9,385 meters. The additional drilling was successful in
confirming the down-dip extension of the Worcester mineralized zone below the
old mine workings. It is envisaged that this project will proceed to
pre-feasibility status during early 2009.
The Bonanza project area and other target locations
are still under investigation and proposals for further exploration are being
considered. The outcome of these exploration programs is expected to result in
the further delineation of new ore bodies which can be developed for mining in
the medium term future. To the extent that it is possible and if we are
successful, our goal is to produce an additional 20,000 oz/annum from a second
operation. While we currently believe that this goal is feasible, we cannot
assure that we will achieve this goal or the related objectives.
We anticipate that the acquisition of Barbrook may
also add to the exploration focus in 2009 but we have not made any specific
determinations with respect to the extent of the amount of exploration that may
be completed in 2009 or the precise time frame for this exploration.
28
Requirement for Additional Capital
Based on our current estimates and subject to later
evaluations that are to be completed by management, we anticipate that our
capital requirements can be grouped into three areas:
-
Development
of the Lily underground mine and new processing plant;
-
Exploration
of the companys minerals rights including extensions to Lily and the
Worcester project area; and
-
Partial
financing of acquisitions.
The development of the underground mine at Lily is of
primary importance and the capital expenditure is currently estimated at $25
Million. Breakdown of this estimate is as follows:
|
|
US$ million
|
Repayment
of bridging loan (incl. interest) arranged to acquire
|
|
|
100% of the shares in Barbrook Mines
|
|
$10
|
Development
of underground mine at the Lily Mine
|
|
12
|
Refurbish
and expand Barbrook plant
|
|
3
|
|
|
$25
|
Our current estimates and projections suggest that
this may be sufficient to allow us to develop the underground workings and the
mine infrastructure at the Lily Mine site as well as the refurbishment of the
Barbrook plant to be used for processing the Lily ore. We may change or revise
our estimates as we obtain additional information and as studies of the mine
are completed. In the event that the amount needed is increased, we may
re-evaluate our plans and delay or re-schedule capital expenditures for this
property and other properties consistent with circumstances and priorities at
that time.
Currently, we anticipate that ongoing exploration will
continue at the Worcester Mine and the other target locations within our
mineral rights. In most cases we have had encouraging results so far. But we
anticipate that we will likely need to make an estimated $4 Million in
additional capital expenditures to achieve the exploration objectives that we
have set for the next 12 months. That estimate may change or increase if
further evaluations show that additional expenditures may be needed to fully
complete these explorations.
If circumstances allow and if we are successful in
obtaining additional necessary capital, we anticipate that we may develop
Barbrook underground by expanding Barbrook plant for production of a planned
28,000 oz pa starting in 2010. Currently, and subject to further confirmation,
we estimate that capital expenditures for Barbrook are as follows:
|
|
US$ million
|
|
|
|
Pre-production
capital program to develop underground workings
|
|
|
commencing 2009
|
|
$6
|
Barbrook
plant expansion to accommodate Barbrook ore 2009/10
|
|
9
|
Construction
of BIOX plant to treat refractory ore - 2010
|
|
10
|
|
|
$25
|
The BIOX Process is a pretreatment process for
refractory gold ores or concentrates, using naturally occurring bacteria to
break down the sulphide matrix and liberate the gold for subsequent
cyanidation. This is an alternative to the conventional processes of roasting and
pressure oxidation and offers advantages that typically include reduced capital
cost, simplicity of operation, robustness and environmental friendliness.
29
If circumstances and opportunities allow, we may make
at least one other acquisition in 2009 and will require funds in order to
secure such acquisition or to provide initial support for the acquired
operation. An amount of $10 Million has been estimated for this purpose and
this estimate may be changed as we complete further reviews in light of new additional
information.
Accordingly and to the extent that we are able, we
seek to raise additional capital of $25 million for our Lily Mine underground
development in the second quarter of 2009 and $4 million for our ongoing
exploration program and objectives. Our current capital raising strategy also
calls for us to seek an additional $25 million in new capital for developing
underground mining operations at Barbrook Mine. While we have had discussions
with several potential providers of capital, we are not in a position to
estimate the form or terms of any such financing arrangement and we cannot give
you any assurance that we will successfully complete any financing arrangements
or, if we do, that the additional new capital obtained in any financing arrangement
can be raised on terms that are reasonable in light of our current
circumstances.
But, overall and if favorable conditions allow and if
we can achieve our current objectives, our goal is to complete financing
arrangements for the Lily Mine and our exploration program in the second
quarter of 2009. For this we seek to raise $29 million. Accordingly, as an
interim step and as part of our capital raising strategy, in 2008 we completed:
a
.
Convertible
bond facility in March 2008 which raised US$4 million, and
b. Bridging loan facility in May 2008 of
approximately US$10 million.
These interim financings were necessary to implement
our plans prior to the main fund raising in the second quarter of 2009. Given
the uncertainties of the marketplace and the challenges that we face, there can
be no assurance that our efforts to raise additional new capital will be
successful or if we are successful, that we can raise additional capital on
terms that are reasonable in light of our current circumstances.
We are obligated to repay Investec the US $10 million
bridging loan facility on or before May 29, 2009. In the event that we are not
successful in repaying this loan or re-negotiating the terms of the loan, we
may face the loss of our subsidiary and thus our principal business and assets.
While we are hopeful that we will be successful in these efforts, we cannot
assure you that we will achieve our objectives. In that event, any investor
who acquires our Common Stock can stand to lose all or substantially all of
their investment.
Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended March
31, 2009 and 2008
A summary of our comparative operations, which arise
only from mining operations at the Lily Mine for the three months period ended March
31, 2009 and March 31, 2008 were as follows:
|
|
Three months period
ended March 31,
|
|
2009
|
|
2008
|
Ore Tons Milled
|
35,921
|
|
38,365
|
Yield
grams per ton
|
1.83
|
|
2.02
|
Gold
Sold oz
|
2,033
|
|
2,378
|
Gold
price - $/oz
|
$903
|
|
$916
|
|
|
|
|
Total
Income*
|
$1,913
|
|
$2,185
|
Cost
of Production*
|
($1,486)
|
|
($1,589)
|
Exploration
Costs*
|
Nil
|
|
Nil
|
Operating
Income (Loss)*
|
$427
|
|
$596
|
Operating
Expenses, net*
|
($1,183)
|
|
($493)
|
Minority
Interest*
|
($26)
|
|
($16)
|
Net
Income (Loss) *
|
($782)
|
|
$87
|
|
|
|
|
|
* Expressed in Thousands
30
Comparative Results of the Three Months Ended March 31,
2009 and 2008
Revenues:
For
the 2009 period covering three months of commercial production from January 1,
2009 to March 31, 2009 (First-Quarter 2009), we recorded revenues of
approximately $1,913,000 from sales of gold versus revenues of approximately $2,185,000
for the three month period from January 1, 2008 to March 31, 2008 (the First-Quarter
2008), which amounted to a decrease of approximately 12%. The principal
factors affecting this decrease in revenue were as follows:
Ore tons milled in the
First-Quarter 2009 was lower than that of First-Quarter 2008 at 35,921 tons,
yield had dropped by approximately 9% resulting in lower gold production.
Accordingly, 2,033 oz. of gold was sold in First-Quarter 2009 as compared with 2,378
oz. of gold sold in First-Quarter 2008, a drop of approximately 15%. This was
primarily due to change in the nature of production in that First-Quarter 2008
was totally from open pit operations whereas First-Quarter 2009 was the first
output obtained from underground mining activity.
In 2008 sales averaged
$916 per ounce of gold, our 2009 sales averaged $903 per ounce of gold; a decrease
in the price of gold of approximately 1%. However, this decrease in the price
of gold may or may not be a trend and if it is a trend, we do not know if it
will continue. We are not able to project gold prices and to the extent that
gold prices fall in the future, our operations, revenues, profitability, and
cash flow will be adversely and significantly impacted for such period of time
as lower price levels in the marketplace are maintained.
Cost of Production:
Ore tons milled in the First-Quarter 2009 was lower than that of
First-Quarter 2008 at 35,921 tons. During the First-Quarter 2009, we produced and
sold 2,033 oz. of gold at a cost of $1,486,000, whereas, during the First-Quarter
2008, we produced and sold 2,378 oz. of gold at a cost of $1,589,000.
Accordingly, per ounce cost of production for the First-Quarter 2009 was $731
whereas per ounce cost of production for First-Quarter 2008 was $668; an
increase in the per ounce production of gold of 9%.
Principal factor affecting this increase in cost of
production were the change over from open pit production to underground
production and that the First-Quarter 2009 was the first production from
underground mining activities.
Operating Expenses for the First-Quarter 2009:
Our
operating expenses increased to $1,183,000 in the First-Quarter 2009 from $493,000
in the First-Quarter 2008; an increase of approximately 240%. A major factor
affecting this was an increase in interest charges of $630,000 on the Companys
loan commitments.
Changes
in Exchange Rates:
Changes
in exchange rates had a significant impact on the comparability of our results
for the First
-Quarter
2009 versus the First
-Quarter
2008. The average rates of exchange for the interim periods ended March 31,
2009 and March 31, 2008 were SAR 9.4283 to $1 and SAR 7.4990 to $1,
respectively approximately 26% weakening of the South African Rand against
the US Dollar. Had the exchange rate remained the same during the First
-Quarter
2009 as that of First
-Quarter
2008, the results of our operations
arising from South African Rand transactions would have been approximately $98,000
higher.
Changes in exchange rates had a significant impact on
the comparability of our balance sheets as of March 31, 2009 versus March 31,
2008. The rates of exchange as at March 31, 2009 and March 31, 2008 were SAR 9.3378
to $1 and SAR 8.1363 to $1, respectively approximately 15% weakening of the
South African Rand against the US Dollar. Had the exchange rate remained the
same in 2009 as that of 2008, our total South African Rand based net assets
would have been approximately $1,500,000 higher. This variation in the main
relates to:
o
ur property, plant and mine development costs which
would have been approximately $4,100,000 higher;
amount receivable from
Lomshiyo would have been $660,000 higher; and
our liabilities which
would have been 3,400,000 higher.
Restructuring:
On March 28, 2008 and
through our subsidiary, EGSA, we entered into a Convertible Loan Agreement.
The agreement involves EGSA receiving $3,981,932 (32,000,000 SA Rands) of
proceeds. The loan principal can convert into 6.9% of the total issued and
outstanding shares of ordinary capital after the conversion of the loan by
EGSA. If EGSA has been unable to list its ordinary shares with the JSE within
twelve months of the agreement date, then the lender can demand repayment of
principal and accrued interest or conversion of the debt into the corresponding
ordinary shares of EGSA. Accordingly, the loan balance outstanding at March
31, 2009 includes $529,536 of accrued interest.
31
On May 27, 2008, the Companys wholly owned subsidiary
EGSA obtained R80 million ($8,567,145 as of December 31, 2008) six month
bridging loan facility (facility) from Investec Bank Ltd. (Investec) for
the acquisition of Barbrook Mines Ltd. On October 30, 2008, this facility was
renegotiated and the Company received a commitment letter agreement from
Investec. Under the terms of this agreement, Investec has agreed to extend the
maturity date of the Companys existing bridging loan (the Existing Loan)
from the original maturity date of November 28, 2008 to May 29, 2009 (the Loan
Extension).
As consideration for the Loan Extension, the Company
agreed to the following:
To grant Investec 820,000 Common
Stock Purchase Warrants for the purchase of 820,000 shares of the Companys
Common Stock at an exercise price equal to the lower of $3.75 per share and the
price at which the Company raises equity capital in its next offering;
To increase the interest rate on
the Existing Loan from Jibar plus 3% to Jibar plus 4%;
To confirm that the Company has
sufficient working capital for the period through the last date of the Loan
Extension;
To subordinate all shareholder
loans to the Existing Loan;
To prohibit the payment of any
interest and principal on all shareholder loans;
To prohibit further indebtedness
without the prior written approval of Investec; and
To provide Investec on or before
the 5th calendar day of each month, monthly management accounts and an update
on the Companys financing strategy and provide Investec with an opportunity to
review the strategy with Investec, upon Investecs request.
The loan balance outstanding at March 31, 2009
includes $$1,145,343 of accrued interest.
In the event that we breach our obligations to
Investec Bank Ltd., we could lose our wholly owned subsidiary and all of our
assets and business.
On August 25, 2008, the Company obtained a Swiss
Francs 2,200,000 ($2,061,650 as of March 31, 2009) six month loan from a
shareholder, Kestrel SA (Kestrel), for purposes of working capital
requirements. Interest on the loan is 15% p.a. calculated on the outstanding
balance and compounded monthly in arrears. In addition, on August 22, 2008,
the Company entered into a Common Stock Purchase Warrant Agreement with Kestrel
whereby Kestrel is entitled to purchase up to Fifty Thousand (50,000) shares of
Common Stock (par value $0.001 per share) from the Company upon payment to the Company
of Five Dollars ($5.00) per share. Warrants may be purchased at any time on or
after August 20, 2008 but all rights to purchase the Shares and to exercise this
Warrant shall expire on August 21, 2011 after which it shall become void and
all rights hereunder shall thereupon cease. The repayment of the loan was
extended to June 30, 2009.
The loan balance outstanding at March 31, 2009
includes $105,985 of accrued interest.
32
On October 28, 2008, the Company engaged IBK Capital
Corporation of Toronto ("IBK") where IBK has agreed to undertake its
best efforts to assist the Company in raising up to $10 million in the next
three months. In the event that market conditions allow and if IBK is
successful, IBK will be paid a commission on the funds raised and will receive
common stock purchase warrants. In this event, the net proceeds will be used
to fund expenditures on the development of the Lily project and for general and
corporate working capital purposes. As of the end of March 2009, IBK was not
successful and their appointment was terminated as of April 1, 2009.
On December 23, 2008, the Company retained Collins
Stewart LLC of New York (Collins) to act as its exclusive placement agent with
respect to a best efforts private placement transaction of up to $15,000,000 of
Company securities. In the event that market conditions allow and if Collins
is successful, Collins will be paid at closing for the sale of Securities a
U.S. dollar cash fee equal to 6.5% of the proceeds raised and 3.0% of the
common stock equivalents underlying the Securities issued in the form of common
stock warrants with an exercise price equal to the purchase price of the
Securities.
With
funds raised and positive cash flow from its ongoing production activities, the
Company believes that it will be able to repay the existing Investec bridging
loan. While the Company has not received any commitment from the broker-dealer
with respect to raising these additional funds and there can be no assurance
that the efforts of Collins will be successful, the Company remains optimistic
that if market conditions allow, it may be able to complete one or more of
these planned financial transactions on reasonable terms.
On
April 14, 2009, the Company received a proposal from AIMS Asset Management Sdn
Bhd (AIMS) offering the Company the following facilities:
-
AIMS
to purchase the Investec loan in full either by funding EGSA to settle the
loan or by directly buying the loan from Investec;
-
The
period of the loan assigned to AIMS to be extended for 2 months to end
July 2009;
-
EGSA
to be owned by a listed holding company on Australian Stock Exchange; and
-
Upon
satisfaction of imminent listing but prior to listing, AIMS undertakes to
convert this loan together with the existing convertible loan into a
direct 40% stake in EGSA.
This proposal was considered by the Board
of Directors of EGI upon receipt and a resolution was passed approving it.
33
On April 30, 2009 and subject to our satisfactions of
certain conditions, we entered into the Restated Convertible Loan and Option
Agreement (the Restated Agreement) with Asian Investment Management Services,
Limited (AIMS). The Restated Agreement provides that AIMS will; (A) provide
technical and corporate assistance to our subsidiary, EGSA, in connection with
EGSAs strategies and objectives; (B) make available additional funds as an
Additional Loan" no later than May 29, 2009 in an amount not to exceed
93,000,000 (South African Rand) to EGSA so as to allow EGSA to pay all amounts
due Investec Bank Limited under the Investec Loan and for EGSA to cancel the
security given by or on behalf of EGSA to Investec Bank including, but not
limited to, the Borrowers Cession and the Guarantee (as set forth in the Form
8-K that we filed on April 23, 2008); (C) convert the Additional Loan and the
existing convertible loan of March 31, 2008 in the amount of 32,000,000 (South
African Rand) that EGSA received from AIMS and the Phoenix Gold Fund (as
amended on March 27, 2009) (the Original Loan), both consolidated and
totaling 125,000,000 (South African Rand) into 40% of the outstanding common
shares of either EGSA or such other entity as the parties agree for purposes of
the planned listing of the common stock of the Company and its subsidiaries (or
such other entity as we and AIMS may determine by subsequent agreement)
pursuant to the Listing Commitment (in that event, we agreed to grant AIMS an
option to purchase an additional 10% of the issued share capital of EGSA which
shall be exercisable at any time after the date at which all of the conditions
set forth above have been satisfied by us or waived by AIMS but no later than
the date at which the common stock of EGSA) (or such other entity as we and
AIMS may determine by subsequent agreement), is listed on an acceptable stock
exchange (such as the London AIM, the Australian Stock Exchange or such other
stock exchange to which AIMS gives its consent). The Restated Agreement also
grants AIMS a right of first refusal which provides that the Company shall not
obtain any additional funding from any other source (other than Collins
Stewart, LLC) unless the Company has first offered AIMS the opportunity to
provide such additional funding on no less favorable terms and conditions and
AIMS has, after thirty days from the date of receipt of notice, declined to
exercise its right of first refusal.
34
Item
3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About
Market Risk.
Our operations and our securities are subject to a
number of substantial risks, including those described below. If any of these
or other risks actually occur, our business, financial condition and operating
results, as well as the trading price or value of its securities could be
materially adversely affected. No attempt has been made to rank these risks in
the order of their likelihood or potential harm. In addition to those general
risks enumerated elsewhere in this Form 10-Q, any purchaser of our common stock
should also consider the following risk factors:
Risks Related to the Companys Operations
We require additional funding which may not be
available. If we are unable to obtain necessary financing on acceptable terms,
we may have to curtail our current or planned operations
:
We require additional funding to implement our
business plan. We terminated our open pit operations at our Lily Mine in
December 2008 and commenced production at Lily underground effective January
2009. Additional capital will be required in order to ramp up full
underground. We also will require still additional funding to explore our
other properties. We may seek to obtain such funding for these activities
through equity or debt financing, joint ventures or from other sources. There
can be no assurances that we will be able to raise adequate funds on acceptable
terms from these or other sources (in light of our current circumstances),
which may hinder us from continuing or expanding our operations.
Operational hazards and responsibilities could
adversely affect our operations:
Our
current operational activities are subject to a number of risks and hazards
which include but not limited to the following:
environmental hazards;
industrial accidents;
labor disputes;
unusual or unexpected geological
or operating conditions;
changes in regulatory environment;
natural phenomena such as severe
weather conditions, floods, earthquakes; and
other hazards.
These occurrences could result in significant damage
to, or destruction of, mineral properties or production equipment, personal
injury or death, environmental damage, delays in mining, monetary losses and
possible legal liability. The occurrence of these operational hazards could
adversely affect our mining operations by limiting production or the closure of
the mines themselves.
We are not insured against any losses or liabilities
that could arise from our operations either because insurance is unavailable or
because the premium cost is excessive. The payment of such liabilities could
have a material adverse effect on our financial position and, depending on the
extent of such liability, could result in the total loss of our assets and
operations
:
Exploration for gold
involves hazards, which could result in us incurring substantial losses and
liabilities to third parties for pollution, accidents and other hazards. We
have public liability insurance of $1,500,000, but if we incur uninsured losses
or liabilities, the funds available for the implementation of its business plan
will be reduced and our assets may be jeopardized. The payment of such
liabilities may have a material adverse effect on our financial position and,
depending on the extent of such liability, could result in the total loss of
our assets and operations.
The Bank Feasibility Study (BFS) contain estimates
and assumptions regarding the feasibility of our mining operations which may
later prove to be inaccurate as additional information becomes available:
While we
believe that the BFS was conducted in a responsible fashion and the estimates,
assumptions, and methodology of the BFS follows standards that are consistent
with industry practice, the amount of Reserves, Proven Reserves, and other
projections may be later significantly reduced as we obtain additional information.
The extent of any reduction in these estimates and their magnitude can not be
known at this time. We are aware that estimates in the mining industry can be
subject to dramatic changes. For these reasons, we can not assure you that we
will not later discover that our estimates need to be significantly reduced as
we complete further work on our mining properties.
35
Our ability to discover a viable and economic mineral
reserve on our properties is subject to numerous factors, most of which are
beyond our control and are not predictable. If we are unable to discover such
reserves, it most likely will not be able to establish a profitable commercial
mining operation on these properties:
Exploration for gold is speculative in nature, involves significant financial
risks and is frequently unsuccessful. Few properties that are explored are
ultimately developed into commercially producing mines. Our long-term
profitability will be, in part, directly related to the cost and success of
exploration programs. Our gold exploration programs entail risks relating to
the following:
location of economic ore bodies;
development of appropriate
metallurgical process;
receipt of necessary government
approvals; and
construction of mining and
processing facilities at sites chosen for mining.
The commercial viability of a mineral deposit is
dependent on a number of factors including, but not limited to, the following:
price of gold;
exchange rates;
particular attributes of the
deposit (i.e. size, grade and proximity to infrastructure);
financing costs;
taxation;
royalties;
land tenure;
land use;
water use;
availability and cost of power
source;
importing and exporting gold; and
environmental protection.
The effect of these factors and their magnitude cannot
be accurately predicted and any one of which could adversely affect our ability
to operate. Further, we have little or no control over these variables.
Our ability to become and remain profitable, should we
become profitable, will be dependent on our ability to locate, explore, develop
and mine additional properties. There is intense competition for the
acquisition of gold properties. If we are unable to accomplish this, we most
likely will not be able to be profitable on a long-term basis:
Gold properties eventually become depleted or
uneconomical to continue mining. As a result, our long-term success is
dependent in large part on its ability to acquire, discover, develop and mine
new properties. The acquisition of gold properties and their exploration and development
are subject to intense competition. There are many larger companies with
greater financial resources, larger staff, more experience and more equipment
for exploration and development that may be in a better position than us to
compete for such mineral properties. If we are unable to locate, develop and
economically mine new properties, we most likely will not be able to be
profitable on a long-term basis. Further, given the competition that we face
from these larger companies, we cannot assure you that we can achieve or
sustain profitability or if we do, that we can sustain it.
36
Our property interests are located in South Africa. The risk of doing business in a foreign country could adversely affect its
results of operations and financial condition:
We face risks normally associated with any conduct of
business in foreign countries, including various levels of political and
economic risk. The occurrence of one or more of these events could have a
material adverse impact on our current and future operations which, in turn,
could have a material adverse impact on its future cash flows, earnings,
results of operations and financial condition. These risks include the
following:
prevalence of various diseases at
the mining sites;
security concerns;
adverse weather such as rainy
season;
labor disputes;
uncertain or unpredictable
political and economic environments;
war and civil disturbances;
changes in laws or policies;
mining policies;
monetary policies;
unlinking of rates of exchange to
world market prices;
environmental regulations;
labor relations;
return of capital;
taxation;
delays in obtaining or the
inability to obtain necessary governmental permits;
governmental seizure of land or
mining claims;
limitations on ownership;
institution of laws requiring
repatriation of earnings;
increased financial costs;
import and export regulations; and
establishment of foreign exchange
regulations.
37
Any such changes may affect our current mining
operations and ability to undertake exploration activities in respect of
present and future properties in the manner currently contemplated, as well as
our ability to explore and eventually develop and operate those properties in
which we have an interest or in respect of which we have obtained exploration
rights to date. Certain changes could result in the confiscation of property
by nationalization or expropriation without fair compensation. We do not carry
any insurance for any of these risks and we have no plans to acquire any such
insurance in the future.
There are uncertainties as to title matters in the
mining industry. Any defects in such title may cause us to forfeit its rights
in mineral properties and could jeopardize its business operations:
If the title to or our rights of ownership in our
properties, prospects and/or claims are challenged or impugned by third
parties, or the
properties, prospects
and/or claims in which we have an interest are subject to prior transfers or
claims, such title defects could cause us to loose our rights in such properties.
If we lose our rights in and to any of our mineral properties, our business
operations could be jeopardized. We may not have the financial
resources to protect and assert our legal claims in such properties.
In the event that we breach our obligations to
Investec, we may lose our wholly-owned subsidiary EGSA and thereby lose all of
our assets:
While we believe that
the financing arrangement with Investec was prudent and appropriate, we have
incurred a risk that we are unable to repay Investec the U.S. $10 million
bridging loan on or before May 29, 2009 or in the event that we breach our
obligations to Investec, Investec has the right to our wholly owned subsidiary,
EGSA, and in that event we could lose all of our assets and business. As a
result and in that event, any person who acquires our Common Stock would lose
all or substantially all of their investment.
Our current and planned operations require permits and
licenses from various governmental authorities. If we are unable to obtain and
maintain such requisite permits, licenses and approvals, our business
operations and ability to become profitable may be adversely affected:
Such permits and licenses are subject to change in
regulations and in various operating circumstances. We cannot assure you that
we will be able to obtain or maintain in force all necessary permits and
licenses that may be required to conduct exploration or commence construction
or operation of mining facilities at properties to be explored or to maintain
continued operations at economically justifiable costs. Further, certain of
our mineral rights and interests are subject to government approvals. In all
such cases such approvals are, as a practical matter, subject to the discretion
of the South African government or governmental officials. No assurance can be
given that we will be successful in obtaining any or all of such approvals.
Our inability to obtain and maintain the requisite permits, licenses and
approvals could materially and adversely affect our operations and ability to
become profitable.
Gold prices can fluctuate on a material and frequent
basis due to numerous factors beyond the Companys control. Our ability to
generate profits from operations could be materially and adversely affected by
such fluctuating prices:
The
profitability of our current and future gold mining operations is significantly
affected by changes in the market price of gold. Between January 1, 2007 and
December 31, 2008, the fixed price for gold on the London Exchange has
fluctuated between $608.40 and $1,011.25 per ounce. Gold prices fluctuate on a
daily basis and are affected by numerous factors beyond our control, including:
level of interest rate;
rate of inflation;
central bank sales; and
world supply of gold.
Each of these factors can cause significant
fluctuations in gold prices. Such external factors are in turn influenced by
changes in international investment patterns and monetary systems and political
developments. The price of gold has historically fluctuated widely and,
depending on the price of gold, revenues from mining operations may not be
sufficient to offset the costs of such operations. We have no means of
controlling or influencing any of these factors and there is no likelihood that
we will achieve any such control or influence in the future.
Gold is sold in South Africa in South African Rands. If applicable currency exchange rates fluctuate our revenues and results of
operations may be materially and adversely affected:
All of the gold that we produce is required to be sold
to The Rand Refinery Ltd. which is a South African corporation and the worlds
largest gold refinery. Such sales are paid for with South African Rands. We
also incur a significant amount of our expenses which are payable in South African
Rands. As a result of the required utilization of the South African Rand, our
financial performance is affected by fluctuations in the value of the South
African Rand to the U.S. Dollar. At the present time, we have no plan or
policy to utilize forward contracts or currency options to minimize this
exposure, and even if these measures are implemented there can be no assurance
that such arrangements will be available, be cost effective or be able to fully
offset such future currency risks.
Dependence upon Key Executives and Employees:
Our success depends to a great extent upon the
continued successful performance of key executives and employees in general and
specifically Mr. Michael McChesney. Mr. McChesney is presently employed by us
as our President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. McChesney also serves as one
of
our directors. If Mr. McChesney and
certain other present key executives and employees are unable to perform their
duties for any reason, our ability to operate in South Africa will be materially
adversely effected. We do not have a key man life insurance policy on the life
of Mr. McChesney or any other key executives and employees and we have no
present plans to acquire any such policies.
38
Item
4. Controls and Procedures.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
:
We
conducted an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of our
management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer,
of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and
procedures. The term disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules
13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended (Exchange Act), means controls and other procedures of a company that
are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the company
in the reports it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded,
processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the
Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms. Disclosure controls and
procedures also include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed
to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports
that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated
to the company's management, including its principal executive and principal
financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate, to
allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Based on this
evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded
as of March 31, 2009, that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective
to a reasonable assurance level of achieving such objectives. However, it
should be noted that the design of any system of controls is based in part upon
certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no
assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all
potential future conditions, regardless of how remote.
Managements Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
:
Our
management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal
control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)
under the Exchange Act. Our internal control over financial reporting is
designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial
reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The internal controls for the Company are provided by
executive managements review and approval of all transactions. Our
internal control over financial reporting also includes those policies and
procedures that:
(1)
pertain to the maintenance of
records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the
transactions and dispositions of our assets;
(2)
provide reasonable assurance that
transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial
statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and that our receipts and expenditures
are being made only in accordance with the authorization of our management; and
(3)
provide reasonable assurance
regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or
disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial
statements.
Because
of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not
prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of
effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may
become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of
compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Management
assessed the effectiveness of the Companys internal control over financial
reporting as of March 31, 2009. In making this assessment, management used the
criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway
Commission in Internal Control-Integrated Framework. Managements assessment
included an evaluation of the design of our internal control over financial
reporting and testing of the operational effectiveness of these controls.
Based
on this assessment, management has concluded that as of March 31, 2009, our
internal control over financial reporting was effective to provide reasonable
assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation
of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
This
annual report does not include an attestation report of the Companys
registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial
reporting. Managements report was not subject to attestation by the Companys
registered public accounting firm pursuant to temporary rules of the Securities
and Exchange Commission that permit the Company to provide only managements
report in this annual report.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting:
There were no changes in our internal control over
financial reporting during the first quarter ended March 31, 2009, that have
materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our
internal control over financial reporting.
39
PART IIOTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings.
The Companys recently acquired subsidiary, Barbrook
Mines, was subject to several claims brought against it by creditors during
2006 and 2007 fiscal years. These claims, which had been accrued for at 2007
year end, were in the main settled and the matters finalized. In the matter
with Sentinel Corporate Solutions (Pty) Limited, Sentinel has issued summons
against Barbrook for R1,108,061 (approximately US$116,000) in respect of
amounts payable, which are accrued for, in respect of a labor contract.
Barbrook has instituted an action against Sentinel for R7,456,465 (approximately
US$783,000) in respect of damages incurred when the labor force set fire to the
Barbrook administration building. Both matters with Sentinel are presently
still being defended and are not yet finalized.
Other than the matter discussed above, we are not a party to any pending legal proceedings, and no such
proceedings are known to be threatened or contemplated.
Item
1A. Risk Factors.
Our operations and our securities are subject to a
number of substantial risks, including those described below. If any of these
or other risks actually occur, our business, financial condition and operating
results, as well as the trading price or value of its securities could be materially
adversely affected. No attempt has been made to rank these risks in the order
of their likelihood or potential harm. In addition to those general risks
enumerated elsewhere in the document, any purchaser of our common stock should
also consider the following risk factors:
Lack of Diversification:
Our business, assets, and operations are concentrated
in South Africa and the mining of gold. As a result, we are not diversified
and to that extent we face continuing challenges to achieve stable revenues,
profits, and cash flow while also remaining exposed to the risks associated
with this concentration.
40
Qualified Opinion Letter from Accountants:
Our accountants, Mendoza Berger & Co., issued a
qualified opinion letter in connection with their audit of our financial
statements for the year ending December 31, 2008. Their qualification, termed
a going concern qualification, primarily reflected their assessment of the
extent of our short-term debt and our obligations to Investec Bank Limited
(Investec) for the repayment of the bridging loan due for payment on May 29,
2009. While we anticipated that the going concern qualification would be
issued (which is common for smaller companies), we have entered into an
agreement with Asian Investment Management Services Limited (AIMS) (as set
forth in our Form 8-K which we filed on May 5, 2009) that provides funds to
repay Investec and some additional working capital. To that extent and if AIMS
provides the additional capital set forth in the agreement, we will avoid a
default on our obligations to Investec. However, the terms of the agreement
with AIMS requires that we undertake efforts to re-domicile the Company, seek a
listing for our Common Stock on an acceptable stock exchange, and fulfill
certain other conditions as set forth in our agreement with AIMS. In all of
these matters, we believe that we have prudently addressed the financial needs
of the Company, we cannot assure you with certainty that we will obtain the
anticipated funds or that we will avoid further financial difficulties in the
future.
Impact of Agreement with AIMS:
As of May 13, 2009, we satisfied certain conditions
set forth in the Restated Convertible Loan and Option Agreement (the Restated
Agreement) that we entered into with Asian Investment Management Services
Limited (AIMS). (A copy of the Restated Agreement with AIMS was filed in our
Form 8-K on May 5, 2009.) The Restated Agreement provides that AIMS could
acquire approximately 46% of our outstanding Common Stock. In that event, our
existing stockholders will incur significant dilution with respect to their
percentage ownership of the Company resulting from the conversion of the
convertible loan that we issued to AIMS and from the exercise of an option
acquired by AIMS in accordance with that agreement. While we believe that the
Restated Agreement provided us with the capital needed to meet our obligations
to Investec and at a reasonable cost (given current financial market
conditions), our obligations to AIMS will significantly impact the control and
direction of the Company and will likely reduce and limit the ability of our
existing stockholders to influence our corporate affairs.
Small
Company, Limited Resources & Need for Additional Capital:
We are a small company with limited financial
resources relative to the many competitors in our industry. In the event of
any unexpected problems or difficulties in our business and operations, we may
not have the ability to obtain sufficient additional capital on terms that are
reasonable in light of our current circumstances and market conditions.
Further, we currently estimate that we will need to raise $15,000,000 in
additional capital. We have not received any assurances that this additional
capital can be obtained or if it is obtained, that can be obtained on
reasonable terms and in a timely fashion to allow us to execute our plans.
Limited
Trading Market for Common Stock:
Our common stock is presently traded in the
over-the-counter Bulletin Board and is quoted on the OTCBB Market. Our stock
trades on a limited and sporadic basis and we cannot assure you that a
continuous liquid trading market will develop or, if it does develop, that it
will be sustained for any continuous period.
Share Capital:
We have a significant number of shares authorized but unissued. These
shares may be issued without stockholder approval. Significant issuances of
stock would further dilute the percentage ownership of our current stockholders and could likely have
an adverse impact on the market price of the common stock.
As of May 12, 2009, we have an aggregate of 150,020,785
shares of Common Stock and 20,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock authorized.
All of such shares of common stock and such shares of preferred stock may be
issued without any action or approval by our stockholders. Further and under
the provisions of our Articles of Incorporation, our Board of Directors has the
ability, without obtaining stockholder consent, to issue one or more series of
preferred stock each with such dividend, liquidation, conversion, voting or
other rights which could adversely affect the voting power or other rights
associated with our common stock. Additionally, we may in the future issue debt
securities, secured or unsecured, which may have limitations or restrictions on
the payment of dividends and which will have priority in the event of
liquidation or dissolution. As a result, an investor who purchases our common
stock may hold legal claims to our assets that will be subordinate to the
claims asserted by superior holders. Finally, any such shares issued would
further dilute the percentage ownership of our current stockholders and would
likely have an adverse impact on the market price of the common stock.
Lack
of Profits and Negative Cash Flow:
During the three months ended March 31, 2009, we recorded a net loss of $781,822
compared to a net income of $87,249 for the three months ended March 31, 2008
and negative cash flow for the three months ended March 31, 2009. While we
believe that if we can successfully implement our business plan and if market
and competitive conditions allow, we may achieve profitability and positive
cash flow, we can not assure you that we will achieve profitability and
positive cash flow or if we do achieve these goals, that we can sustain
profitability and positive cash flow in the future.
Extension
of Loan & Covenants Granted to Investec:
On October 30, 2008, we entered into an extension of the $10,000,000
bridging loan with Investec Bank Limited. Under the terms of the loan, we are
obligated to pay interest to Investec and repay all principal due to Investec
on May 29, 2009. Further, and in addition to other provisions, we granted
Investec 820,000 common stock purchase warrants and agreed to provide Investec
with monthly management reports. In the event that we are not able to repay
the full amount of the $10,000,000 loan from Investec on or before the May 29,
2009, then, absent an extension of the loan or some other re-negotiation of the
loan, we could stand to lose our principal subsidiary with current business. While
we believe that the agreement extending the existing bridging loan serves our
long-term interests, and we believe that we will be successful in repaying the
loan on or before the May 29, 2009 date, we can not assure you that we will be
successful in repaying the loan as required. In the event that we are not
successful, any holder of the Companys Common Stock could stand to lose all or
substantially all of their investment.
Lack of Dividends:
Our board of directors
determines whether to pay dividends on the Companys issued and outstanding
shares. The declaration of dividends will depend upon our future earnings (if
any), our capital requirements, our financial condition and other relevant factors.
Our board of directors does not intend to declare any dividends on our Common
Stock for the foreseeable future. We anticipate that we will retain any
earnings to finance the growth of our business and for general corporate
purposes.
41
Competition & Lack of Diversification:
Gold
properties eventually become depleted or uneconomical to continue mining. As a
result, our long-term success is dependent on our ability to acquire, discover,
develop and mine new properties. The acquisition of gold properties and their
exploration and development are subject to intense competition. Companies with
greater financial resources, larger staffs, more experience and more equipment
for exploration and development may be in a better position than us to compete
for such mineral properties. If we are unable to locate, develop and
economically mine new properties, it most likely will not be able to be
profitable on a long-term basis. In addition, all of our assets and operations
are concentrated in the mining business described in this Form 10-K and we have
no current plans to diversify into any other business activity.
Reliance Upon Estimates & Matter of Estimated
Reserves:
Our business and the plans
described in this Form 10-Q rely, in large measure, upon estimates that we
received from others (including those in the Bankable Feasibility Study) used
in combination with our own assessments. While we continue to evaluate the
geological information that we use, we cannot assure you that the estimates
recited in this Form 10-Q are accurate or that we will not later revise and
lower our estimated reserves which may adversely impact our financial
performance. Estimates used in the mining industry can change dramatically and
all of our estimates may be revised or reduced on the basis of later received
information and estimates.
Limited
Trading and Limited History for our Common Stock:
Our common stock trades on a limited and sporadic
basis and, as a result, there is only limited liquidity in our common stock.
Further, our common stock has had only a limited trading history on the
Bulletin Board Market. As a result and given the limited trading market for
our common stock, the price of our common stock may be far more volatile and
unpredictable than the prices of common stocks and other securities that have a
long and established trading history.
Possible
Rule 144 Stock Sales:
Many of the shares of our outstanding Common Stock
are "restricted securities" and may be sold only in compliance with
Rule 144 adopted under the Securities Act of 1933 or other applicable
exemptions from registration. As revised effective February 15, 2008, Rule 144
generally now requires that a holder of our restricted Common Stock hold these
restricted securities for at least six months from the date at which they
were acquired before undertaking any public re-sale of the restricted Common
Stock pursuant to Rule 144. And if the holder is an affiliate (as defined in
Rule 144(a)(1) or was an affiliate in the immediately preceding 90 day period),
then the holder must also satisfy certain other requirements of Rule 144. As a
result of the revision to Rule 144 that became effective February 15, 2008
(including but not limited to the shorter holding period under Rule 144(d)),
potential and actual sales of our Common Stock by our present shareholders may
have a depressive effect on the price of our Common Stock in the marketplace.
Government, Environmental, and Legal Risks:
Our operations are subject to South African and
local laws and regulations regarding environmental matters, the abstraction of
water, and the discharge of mining wastes and materials. Any changes in these
laws could affect our operations and economics. Environmental laws and
regulations change frequently, and the implementation of new, or the
modification of existing, laws or regulations could harm us. While we believe
we do not currently have any material environmental obligations, exploration
activities may give rise in the future to significant liabilities on our part
to the government and third parties and may require us to incur substantial
costs of remediation.
Operational Hazards and Responsibilities:
Our operational activities are subject to a number
of risks and hazards which include but not limited to the following:
environmental hazards;
industrial accidents;
labor disputes;
unusual or unexpected geological
or operating conditions;
changes in regulatory environment;
natural phenomena such as severe
weather conditions, floods, earthquakes; and
other hazards.
42
These occurrences could result in significant damage
to, or destruction of, mineral properties or production equipment, personal
injury or death, environmental damage, delays in mining, monetary losses and
possible legal liability. The occurrence of these operational hazards could
adversely affect our mining operations by limiting production or the closure of
the mines themselves.
Limited Insurance Coverage:
We are not insured against any losses or liabilities
that could arise from its operations either because insurance is unavailable or
because the premium cost is excessive. The payment of such liabilities could
have a material adverse effect on our financial position and, depending on the
extent of such liability, could result in the total loss of its assets and
operations. Exploration for gold
involves hazards, which could result in us incurring substantial losses and
liabilities to third parties for pollution, accidents and other hazards. We
have public liability insurance of $1,500,000 but, if
we incur uninsured losses or liabilities, the funds available for the
implementation of our business plan will be reduced and our assets may be
jeopardized. The payment of such liabilities may have a material adverse
effect on our financial position and, depending on the extent of such
liability, could result in the total loss of its assets and operations.
The Bankable Feasibility Study (BFS):
The BFS contains estimates and assumptions regarding
the feasibility of our mining operations which may later prove to be inaccurate
as additional information becomes available. While we believe that the
BFS was conducted in a responsible fashion and the estimates, assumptions,
and methodology of the BFS follows standards that are consistent with industry
practice, the amount of Reserves, Proven Reserves, and other projections may be
later significantly reduced as we obtain additional information. The extent of
any reduction in these estimates and their magnitude can not be known at this
time. We are aware that estimates in the mining industry can be subject to
dramatic changes. For these reasons, we can not assure you that we will not
later discover that our estimates need to be significantly reduced as we
complete further work on our mining properties.
Commercial Viability and Reserves:
Our ability to discover a viable and economic mineral
reserve on its properties is subject to numerous factors, most of which are
beyond our control and are not predictable. If we are unable to discover such
reserves, we most likely will not be able to establish a profitable commercial
mining operation on these properties.
Exploration for gold is speculative in nature, involves significant financial
risks and is frequently unsuccessful. Few properties that are explored are ultimately
developed into commercially producing mines. Our long-term profitability will
be, in part, directly related to the cost and success of exploration programs.
Our gold exploration programs entail risks relating to the following:
location of economic ore bodies;
development of appropriate
metallurgical process;
receipt of necessary government
approvals; and
construction of mining and
processing facilities at sites chosen for mining.
The commercial viability of a mineral deposit is
dependent on a number of factors including the following:
the price of gold;
exchange rates;
the particular attributes of the
deposit (i.e. size, grade and the proximity to infrastructure);
financing costs;
taxation;
royalties;
land tenure;
land use;
water use;
availability and cost of power
source;
importing and exporting gold; and
environmental protection.
43
The effect of these factors cannot be accurately
predicted and any one of which could adversely affect our ability to operate.
Further, we have little or no control over these variables and the magnitude of
any one risk or any group of risks and the extent to which they may adversely
impact us can not be predicted with any accuracy.
.
Profitability:
We anticipate that our ability to achieve and sustain profitability and
positive cash flow will likely be dependent primarily on our ability to locate,
explore, develop and mine additional, commercially viable properties. There is
intense competition for the acquisition of gold properties. If we are unable
to accomplish this, it most likely will not be able to be profitable on a
long-term basis. Gold properties
eventually become depleted or uneconomical to continue mining. As a result,
our long-term success is dependent on its ability to acquire, discover, develop
and mine new properties. The acquisition of gold properties and their
exploration and development are subject to intense competition. Companies with
greater financial resources, larger staffs, more experience and more equipment
for exploration and development may be in a better position than us to compete
for such mineral properties. If we are unable to locate, develop and economically
mine new properties, we most likely will not be able to achieve profitability,
positive cash flow, or both on a long-term basis.
Foreign Country Location:
All of our property interests and all of our
operations are concentrated in South Africa. The risk of doing business in a
foreign country could adversely affect our results of operations and financial
condition. We face risks normally
associated with any conduct of business in foreign countries, including various
levels of political and economic risk. The occurrence of one or more of these
events could have a material adverse impact on our current and future
operations which, in turn, could have a material adverse impact on our future
cash flows, earnings, results of operations and financial condition. These
risks include the following:
prevalence of various diseases at
the mining sites;
security concerns;
adverse weather such as rainy
season;
labor disputes;
uncertain or unpredictable
political and economic environments;
war and civil disturbances;
changes in laws or policies;
mining policies;
monetary policies;
unlinking of rates of exchange to
world market prices;
environmental regulations;
labor relations;
return of capital;
taxation;
delays in obtaining or the
inability to obtain necessary governmental permits;
governmental seizure of land or
mining claims, limitations on ownership;
institution of laws requiring repatriation
of earnings;
increased financial costs;
import and export regulations; and
establishment of foreign exchange
regulations.
44
Any such changes may affect our current mining operations and ability to undertake exploration
activities in respect of present and future properties in the manner currently
contemplated, as well as its ability to explore and eventually develop and
operate those properties in which we have an interest or in respect of which we
have obtained exploration rights to date. Certain changes could result in the
confiscation of property by nationalization or expropriation without fair
compensation. We have no plans to diversify our operations or business to any
other country and we do not anticipate that we will diversify our operations or
business outside of South Africa at any time in the foreseeable future.
Uncertainties as to Title Matters in the Mining
Industry:
While we believe that we
hold legal title and rights of ownership to conduct our existing mining
operations, any defects in such title may cause us to forfeit our rights in
mineral properties and could jeopardize our business operations. If the title to or our rights of ownership in our
properties, prospects and/or claims are challenged or impugned by third
parties, or the properties, prospects and/or claims in which we have an
interest are subject to prior transfers or claims, such title defects could
cause us to loose our rights in such properties. If we lose our rights in and
to any of our mineral properties, we could incur substantial and protracted
losses. In the event that our rights are challenged, we may not have
the financial resources to protect and assert our legal claims in such
properties.
Governmental Permits and Licenses:
Our
current and planned operations require
permits and licenses from various governmental authorities. If we are unable to
obtain and maintain such requisite permits, licenses and approvals, our
business operations and ability to become profitable may be adversely affected. Such permits and licenses are subject to change in
regulations and in various operating circumstances. We cannot assure you that
we will be able to obtain or maintain in force all necessary permits and
licenses that may be required to conduct exploration or commence construction
or operation of mining facilities at properties to be explored or to maintain
continued operations at economically justifiable costs. Further, certain of
our mineral rights and interests are subject to government approvals. In all
such cases such approvals are, as a practical matter, subject to the discretion
of the South African government or governmental officials. No assurance can be
given that we will be successful in maintaining or obtaining any or all of such
approvals. Our inability to obtain and maintain the requisite permits,
licenses and approvals could materially and adversely affect our operations and
ability to become profitable. In the event of any adverse governmental action
against our Company or the permits, licenses, and approvals that we currently
hold, we may incur protracted and significant losses which could result in the
total loss of the value of our Common Stock. For these and other reasons, a
purchaser of our Common Stock must be prepared to accept the total loss of their
investment.
Price of Gold:
The revenues that we generate are determined by the quantity of gold we
produce and the price of gold.
Gold prices can fluctuate on a material
and frequent basis due to numerous factors beyond our control. Our ability to
generate profits from operations could be materially and adversely affected by
such fluctuating prices. Accordingly,
the profitability of the Companys current and future gold mining operations is
significantly affected by changes in the market price of gold. Between January
1, 2008 and December 31, 2008, the fixed price for gold on the London
Exchange has fluctuated between $712.50 and $1,023.50 per ounce. Gold prices
fluctuate on a daily basis and are affected by numerous factors beyond our
control, including:
level of interest rates;
rate of inflation;
central bank sales; and
world supply of gold.
Each of these factors can cause significant
fluctuations in gold prices. Such external factors are, in turn, influenced by
changes in international investment patterns and monetary systems and political
developments. The price of gold has historically fluctuated widely and,
depending on the price of gold, revenues from mining operations may not be
sufficient to offset the costs of such operations. In that event and if gold
prices were to decline to levels that do not allow us to recover our costs, we
may incur significant and protracted losses and we may cease operations. In
that event, a holder of our Common Stock would likely lose all or substantially
all of their investment.
45
Foreign Currency:
We sell gold in South Africa in South African Rands. If applicable
currency exchange rates fluctuate, our revenues and results of operations may
be materially and adversely affected.
We exclusively sell our gold to The Rand Refinery Ltd. which is a
South African corporation and the worlds largest gold refinery. Such sales
are paid for with South African Rands. We also incur a significant amount of
its expenses which are payable in South African Rands. As a result of the
required utilization of the South African Rand, our financial performance is
affected by fluctuations in the value of the South African Rand to the U.S.
Dollar. At the present time, we have no plan or policy to utilize forward
contracts or currency options to minimize this exposure, and even if these
measures are implemented there can be no assurance that such arrangements will
be available, be cost effective or be able to fully offset such future currency
risks.
Dependence upon Key Executives and Employees:
Our
success depends to a great extent upon the continued successful performance of
key executives and employees in general and specifically Mr. Michael
McChesney. Mr. McChesney is presently employed by us as our President and
Chief Executive Officer. Mr. McChesney also serves as one of our directors.
If Mr. McChesney and certain other present key executives and employees are
unable to perform their duties for any reason, our ability to operate in South Africa will be materially adversely effected. We do not have a key man life
insurance policy on the life of Mr. McChesney or any other key executives and
employees and we have no plans to acquire any key man life insurance in the
future.
Enforcement of Civil Liabilities:
Substantially all our assets are located outside of
the United States, and certain of our directors and officers are resident
outside of the United States. As a result, it may be difficult or impossible
to enforce judgments granted by a court in the United States against our assets
or our directors and officers residing outside of the United States.
Internal
Controls:
Effective internal controls
are necessary for us to provide reliable financials reports and effectively
prevent fraud. If we cannot provide reliable financial reports or prevent
fraud, our operating results could be harmed. We have in the past discovered,
and may in the future discover, areas of our internal controls that need
improvement. Any failure to implement required new or improved controls, or
difficulties encountered in their implementation, or lack of resources to
properly implement internal controls, could harm our operating results or cause
us to fail to meet our reporting obligations. Inferior internal controls could
also cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information,
which could have a negative effect on the trading price of our stock.
Sarbanes
Oxley:
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of
2002 was enacted in the United States in response to public concerns regarding
corporate accountability in connection with recent accounting scandals. The
stated goals of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act are to increase corporate
responsibility, to provide for enhanced penalties for accounting and auditing
improprieties at publicly traded companies, and to protect investors by
improving the accuracy and reliability of corporate disclosures pursuant to the
securities laws. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act generally applies to all companies
that file or are required to file periodic reports with the SEC, under the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934. As a public company, we are required to
comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The enactment of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of
2002 has resulted in a series of rules and regulations by the SEC that increase
responsibilities and liabilities of directors and executive officers. The
perceived increased personal risk associated with these recent changes may
deter qualified individuals from accepting these roles. As a result, it may be
more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified persons to serve on our
board of directors or as executive officers. Sarbanes Oxley 404 compliance is
a costly and time-consuming process and there can be no assurance that we will
continue to be compliant. We have limited internal and external resources to
devote to maintaining SOX 404 compliance and there can be no assurance that we
can maintain compliance. We continue to evaluate and monitor developments with
respect to these rules, and we cannot predict or estimate the amount of additional
costs we may incur or the timing of such costs.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and
Use of Proceeds.
On
March 28, 2008, our subsidiary, EGSA, entered into a Convertible Loan Agreement
which was completed without the use of an underwriter. The transaction and the
agreements were completed directly without any intermediary.
Through
our subsidiary, EGSA, we received net proceeds of $3,361,697 (32,000,000 SA
Rands) (based on current exchange rates).
In
entering into the transaction with the Lender, we received assurances that:
(1)
the Lender had received information, business and financial documents, and
other disclosures regarding the Company, EGSA, and management equivalent to
that found in a registration statement;
(2)
the Lender had a full and unrestricted opportunity to ask questions of the
Companys and EGSAs officers and directors and to receive answers to all such
questions;
46
(3)
the Lender is an Accredited Investor who is experienced and sophisticated in
investment transactions made with small public companies;
(4)
the Lender understood that it acquired the Convertible Loan (and subsequently,
any shares of EGSAs common stock thereby) as restricted securities, for
investment purposes only and not with a view toward their resale; and
(5)
the transaction with the Lender was not the product of any general solicitation
or advertising but was the result of a pre-existing business relationship.
On
this basis, we relied upon the exemption provided by Section 4(2) of the Securities
Act of 1933.
All
of the proceeds were and are to be used by EGSA to increase its working capital
and for capital expenditures.
The
loan principal can convert into 6.9% of the total issued and outstanding shares
of ordinary capital (of EGSA) after the conversion of the loan by EGSA. If
EGSA is able to list its shares with the Johannesburg Stock Exchange Limited
(JSE) within six months of the agreement date then no interest is due and
payable. If EGSA is not able to list its ordinary shares with the JSE within
six months of the agreement date then interest will accrue at the South African
Prime Rate. If EGSA list its ordinary shares with JSE after six months but
before twelve months of the agreement date, then interest will accrue and be
paid on a monthly basis until conversion or repayment of the loan. If EGSA has
been unable to list its ordinary shares with JSE within twelve months of the
agreement date, then the lender can demand repayment of principal and accrued
interest or conversion of the debt into the corresponding shares of ordinary
shares of EGSA.
On
October 30, 2008, we received a commitment letter agreement from Investec Bank
Limited (Investec). Under the terms of the agreement, Investec has agreed to
extend the maturity date of our existing bridging loan (the Existing Loan)
from the original maturity date of November 28, 2008 to May 29, 2009 (the Loan
Extension).
As consideration for the Loan
Extension, the Company agreed to the following:
(1)
To grant Investec 820,000 Common
Stock Purchase Warrants for the purchase of 820,000 shares of the Companys
Common Stock at an exercise price equal to the lower of $3.75 per share and the
price at which the Company raises equity capital in its next offering;
(2)
To increase the interest rate on
the Existing Loan from Jibar plus 3% to Jibar plus 4%;
(3)
To confirm that the Company has
sufficient working capital for the period through the last date of the Loan
Extension;
(4)
To subordinate all
shareholder loans
to the Existing
Loan;
(5)
To prohibit the payment of any
interest and principal on all shareholder loans;
(6)
To prohibit further indebtedness
without the prior written approval of Investec; and
(7)
To provide Investec on or before
the 5
th
calendar day of each month, monthly management accounts and
an update on the Companys financing strategy and provide Investec with an
opportunity to review the strategy with Investec, upon Investecs request.
47
We
did not use an underwriter or pay any fees or commissions to any third party in
connection with the Loan Extension. All of the Warrants granted to Investec
were granted pursuant to the exemption provided by Section 4(2) of the
Securities Act of 1933 pursuant to the representations and assurances that the
Company received from Investec and the due diligence conducted by Investec.
The Warrants were issued to Investec with a restricted securities legend and
Investec agreed that it was acquiring the Warrants for investment purposes
only.
On February 16, 2009, 554,228 shares of restricted
common stock at $3.00 per share and 554,228 Common Stock Purchase Warrants in
the form of a unit security at $3.00 per unit were issued for cash for a total
offering of $1,662,684 less offering costs of $29,134 totaling $1,633,550. The
share certificates were issued on May 7, 2009.
On
April 30, 2009, we entered into the Restated Convertible Loan and Option
Agreement (the Restated Agreement) with Asian Investment Management Services
Limited (AIMS). Under the terms of the Restated Agreement, AIMS agreed to
provide funds to allow us to pay our outstanding commitments that we have to
Investec Bank Limited (Investec) and we also granted AIMS an option to
purchase shares of our Common Stock.
In
entering into the Restated Agreement with AIMS, we received assurances that:
(1)
AIMS had received copies of our 2006, 2007, and 2008 Form 10-K as filed with
the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, our audited financial statements
for each of those years together with other information, business and financial
documents, and other disclosures equivalent to that found in a registration
statement;
(2)
AIMS had a full and unrestricted opportunity to ask questions of the Companys
officers and directors and to receive answers to all such questions;
(3)
AIMS had full and unrestricted access to our corporate books and records;
(4)
AIMS is an Accredited Investor who is experienced and sophisticated in
investment transactions made with small public companies;
(5)
AIMS understood that the securities acquired by AIMS pursuant to the Restated
Agreement are restricted securities acquired by it for investment purposes
only and not with a view toward any resale; and
(6)
the transaction with AIMS as recited in the Restated Agreement was not the
product of any general solicitation or advertising but was the result of a
pre-existing business relationship.
On
this basis, we relied upon the exemption provided by Section 4(2) of the
Securities Act of 1933.
The
proceeds we received under the Restated Agreement are to be used to repay the
outstanding balance of the bridging loan that we have with Investec that is due
for payment no later than May 29, 2009.
48
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities.
None
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security
Holders.
None
Item 5. Other Information.
On
May 13, 2009, a majority of our stockholders executed an Action by a Majority
of the Holders of our Common Stock by Written Consent in lieu of a Meeting (the
Written Consent).
By
the terms of the Written Consent, the holders of a majority of our outstanding
Common Stock approved the Restated Convertible Loan and Option Agreement (the
Restated Agreement) with Asian Investment Management Services Limited
(AIMS). The Restated Agreement and its terms and conditions are set forth in
our Form 8-K that we filed on May 5, 2009.
We intend to file Schedule 14C with the Commission in
the near future and to meet the requirements set forth in Section 14 of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the rules adopted by the Commission there
under in connection stockholder actions arising out of this Written Action.
Item 6. Exhibits.
Regulation
S-B
Number Exhibit
31.1 Rule
13a-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer
31.2 Rule
13a-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer
32.1
Certification Pursuant to 18
U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002 of Chief Executive Officer
32.2
Certification
Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the
Sarbanes
-Oxley Act of 2002 of Chief
Financial Officer
49
SIGNATURES
In accordance with the requirements of the Exchange Act, the registrant caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
EASTERN GOLDFIELDS, INC.
Date: May 20, 2009 BY:/s/ Michael Mcchesney
MICHAEL MCCHESNEY
Chief Executive Officer
Date: May 20, 2009 BY:/s/ Tamer Muftizade
TAMER MUFTIZADE
Chief Financial Officer
50