MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2017 AND 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
To the Shareholders of Murchison Minerals Ltd.
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Murchison Minerals Ltd. and its
subsidiaries, which comprise the consolidated statements of financial position as at December 31, 2017 and
2016, and the consolidated statements of loss and comprehensive loss, consolidated statements of equity and
consolidated statements of cash flows for the years then ended, and a summary of significant accounting policies
and other explanatory information.
Management's Responsibility for the Consolidated Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these consolidated financial statements in
accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards and for such internal control as management
determines is necessary to enable the preparation of consolidated financial statements that are free from material
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Auditor’s Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We
conducted our audits in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards
require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance
about whether the consolidated financial statements are free from material misstatement.
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the
consolidated financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor's judgment, including the
assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or
error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity's preparation
and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are
appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the
entity's internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the
reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of
the consolidated financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit
opinion.
Opinion
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of
Murchison Minerals Ltd. and its subsidiaries as at December 31, 2017 and 2016, and their financial performance
and cash flows for the years then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards.
UHY McGovern Hurley LLP
Chartered Professional Accountants
Licensed Public Accountants
TORONTO, Canada
March 22, 2018
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash
Amounts receivable and prepaid expenses (Note 6)
Assets held for sale (Note 8)
Total current assets
Investment (Note 7)
Total assets
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (Note 14)
Flow-through share premium liability (Notes 10 and 15)
Total liabilities
EQUITY
Share capital (Note 10)
Reserves (Notes 11 and 12)
Deficit
Total equity
Total equity and liabilities
Nature and Continuance of Operations (Note 1)
Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 9 and 15)
Subsequent Event (Note 16)
Approved on Behalf of the Board:
December 31, December 31,
2017
2016
$
4,394,940 $
39,246
-
2,147,235
56,539
180,000
4,434,186
2,383,774
5,339
7,320
$
4,439,525 $
2,391,094
$
122,862 $
905,490
66,577
407,000
1,028,352
473,577
28,802,248
1,840,068
(27,231,143)
26,587,242
1,437,644
(26,107,369)
3,411,173
1,917,517
$
4,439,525 $
2,391,094
"signed"
"signed"
Kent Pearson
Director
Denis Arsenault
Director
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements
- 1 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF LOSS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
EXPENSES
Exploration expenses – Canada
General exploration (recovery)
Professional fees
Management fees and salaries
Office and general
Regulatory and transfer agent
Investor relations
Share-based payments (Note 12)
Loss before the under noted
Interest income
Foreign exchange loss (gain)
Flow-through shares premium
Unrealized loss (gain) on marketable securities (Note 7)
Impairment loss – assets held for sale (Note 8)
Gain on disposal of property and equipment
Loss for the year
Loss per share - basic and diluted
Weighted average number of common shares
outstanding - basic and diluted
2017
2016
$
1,166,876 $
(10,611)
104,270
178,894
28,670
27,047
97,301
-
107,764
12,848
37,523
137,809
35,079
21,946
35,003
266,430
1,592,447
654,402
(10,601)
10,161
(407,000)
1,981
-
(7,182)
(6,070)
(16,201)
(37,560)
(5,310)
113,536
(57,730)
$
1,179,806
$
645,067
$
0.05 $
0.03
25,943,709
19,279,529
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements
- 2 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
Reserves
Equity settled
share-based
payments
reserve
Share
Capital
Warrants
reserve
Deficit
Total
Balance, December 31, 2015
Net loss for the year
Expiry of stock options
Expiry of warrants
Share-based payments
Issuance of warrants and finders’ warrants (net of issue costs)
Issuance of common shares (net of issue costs)
$ 25,416,637
-
-
-
-
-
1,170,605
$ 455,326
-
(67,458)
-
266,430
-
-
$
229,600
-
-
(229,600)
-
783,346
-
$ (25,759,360) $
(645,067)
67,458
229,600
-
-
-
342,203
(645,067)
-
-
266,430
783,346
1,170,605
Balance, December 31, 2016
$ 26,587,242
$ 654,298
$
783,346 $ (26,107,369) $
1,917,517
Balance, December 31, 2016
Net loss for the year
Expiry of stock options
Issuance of warrants and finders’ warrants (net of issue costs)
Issuance of common shares (net of issue costs)
$ 26,587,242
-
-
-
2,215,006
$ 654,298
-
(56,032)
-
-
$
783,346 $ (26,107,369) $
-
-
458,456
-
(1,179,806)
56,032
-
-
1,917,517
(1,179,806)
-
458,456
2,215,006
Balance, December 31, 2017
$ 28,802,248
$ 598,266
$ 1,241,802 $ (27,231,143) $
3,411,173
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements
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MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
CASH (USED IN) PROVIDED BY:
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Loss for the year
Amortization
Share-based payments
Flow-through shares premium
Unrealized loss (gain) on marketable securities
Recovery of exploration and evaluation properties
Impairment loss – assets held for sale
Gain on disposal of property and equipment
Net change in non-cash working capital items:
Amounts receivable and prepaid expenses
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
2017
2016
$ (1,179,806)
-
-
(407,000)
1,981
-
-
(7,182)
$ (645,067)
2,175
266,430
(37,560)
(5,310)
(2,010)
113,536
(57,730)
(1,592,007)
(365,536)
17,293
56,285
2,787
(72,089)
Net cash flows used by operating activities
(1,518,429)
(434,838)
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds on sale of property and equipment
Net cash flows provided by investing activities
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Issuance of securities
Issue costs
Net cash flows provided by financing activities
NET CHANGE IN CASH
CASH, BEGINNING OF THE YEAR
CASH, END OF THE YEAR
Supplemental non-cash information
Finders’ warrants issued for services
187,182
59,394
187,182
59,394
3,839,189
(260,237)
2,567,770
(169,259)
3,578,952
2,398,511
2,247,705
2,147,235
2,023,067
124,168
$ 4,394,940
$2,147,235
$ 114,460
$
52,940
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements
- 4 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
1.
NATURE AND CONTINUANCE OF OPERATIONS
Murchison Minerals Ltd. (the "Company" or “Murchison”) was incorporated under the Canada Business Corporations Act on
July 25, 2001. The principal business of the Company is the acquisition, exploration and evaluation of mineral property
interests. The primary office is located at 120 Adelaide Street West, Suite 2500, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5H 1T1.
The consolidated financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on March 22, 2018.
The business of mining and exploring for minerals involves a high degree of risk and there can be no assurance that planned
exploration and evaluation programs will result in profitable mining operations. The continuance of the Company is dependent
upon completion of the acquisition of the exploration and evaluation properties, the discovery of economically recoverable
reserves, confirmation of the Company's interest in the underlying mineral claims, the ability of the Company to obtain
necessary financing to complete the development and future profitable production or, alternatively, upon disposition of such
property at a profit. Changes in future conditions could require material write downs of the carrying values of the Company's
assets.
Although the Company has taken steps to verify title to its exploration and evaluation properties, in accordance with industry
standards for the current stage of exploration of such property, these procedures do not guarantee the Company's title. Property
title may be subject to unregistered prior agreements and noncompliance with regulatory and environmental requirements. The
Company's assets may also be subject to increases in taxes and royalties, renegotiation of contracts, currency exchange
fluctuations and restrictions and political uncertainty.
As at December 31, 2017, the Company has a cumulative deficit of $27,231,143 (December 31, 2016 - $26,107,369),
continuing losses and is not yet generating positive cash flows from operations. These consolidated financial statements were
prepared on a going-concern basis in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"). Funding for
operations has been obtained primarily through private share offerings. Future operations are dependent upon the Company's
ability to finance expenditure requirements and upon the achievement of profitable operations. Management believes it will be
successful in raising the necessary funding to continue operations in the normal course of operations; however, there is no
assurance that these funds will be available on terms acceptable to the Company or at all. These consolidated financial
statements do not include adjustments to the amounts and classification of assets and liabilities that might be necessary should
the Company be unable to continue operations. Such adjustments could be material.
2.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Statement of compliance
These consolidated financial statements, including comparatives, have been prepared in accordance with IFRS.
Basis of presentation
These consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis except for investment which has been
presented at fair value through profit or loss (“FVTPL”). In addition, these consolidated financial statements have been
prepared using the accrual basis of accounting except for cash flow information.
Basis of consolidation
Subsidiaries are entities over which the Company has control, where control is defined to exist when the Company is exposed to
variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the
investee. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date control is transferred to the Company, and are de-consolidated from
the date control ceases.
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MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
2.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Basis of consolidation (continued)
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries. All
intercompany transactions, balances, income and expenses are eliminated upon consolidation.
The following companies have been consolidated within these consolidated financial statements:
Company
Registered
Principal activity
Murchison Minerals Ltd.
Flemish Gold Corp.
Pearl Mining (U) Ltd.(1)
Flemish Investments Ltd. (Uganda)(1)
Flemish Investments Burundi SA(1)
(1) 100% owned by Flemish Gold Corp.
Foreign currencies
Ontario, Canada
Ontario, Canada
Uganda, Africa
Uganda, Africa
Burundi, Africa
Parent company
Exploration company
Exploration company
Exploration company
Exploration company
The functional currency, as determined by management of the Company and each of its subsidiaries is the Canadian Dollar. For
the purposes of the consolidated financial statements, the results and financial position are expressed in Canadian Dollars.
Transactions in currencies other than the functional currency are translated into the functional currency using the exchange
rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such
transactions and from the translation of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the period-end
exchange rates are recognized in profit or loss. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign
currency are not re-translated.
Financial Instruments
Loans and receivables are financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. Such
assets are initially recognized at fair value plus any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition,
loans and receivables are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment losses.
A financial asset is classified at FVTPL if it is classified as held for trading or is designated as such upon initial recognition.
Financial assets are designated as FVTPL if the Company manages such investments and makes purchases and sale decisions
based on their fair value in accordance with the Company’s documented risk management or investment strategy. Realized and
unrealized gains and losses are reflected in the statement of loss. Transaction costs associated with FVTPL financial assets are
expensed as incurred, while transaction costs associated with all other financial assets are included in the initial carrying
amount of the asset. The Company has designated its investments in marketable securities as FVTPL.
Other financial liabilities are recognized initially at fair value net of any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to
initial recognition, these financial liabilities are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. The effective
interest method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial liability and of allocating interest and any
transaction costs over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash
payments through the expected life of the financial liability or (where appropriate) to the net carrying amount on initial
recognition.
Other financial liabilities are de-recognized when the obligations are discharged, cancelled or expired.
- 6 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
2.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Financial Instruments (continued)
Impairment of financial assets:
Financial assets are assessed for indicators of impairment at the end of each reporting period. Financial assets are impaired
when there is objective evidence that, as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the financial
assets, the estimated future cash flows of the financial assets have been negatively impacted. Evidence of impairment could
include:
significant financial difficulty of the issuer or counterparty; or
default or delinquency in interest or principal payments; or
the likelihood that the borrower will enter bankruptcy or financial re-organization.
The carrying amount of financial assets is reduced by any impairment loss directly for all financial assets with the exception of
amounts receivable, where the carrying amount is reduced through the use of an allowance account. When an account
receivable is considered uncollectible, it is written off against the allowance account. Subsequent recoveries of amounts
previously written off are credited against the allowance account. Changes in the carrying amount of the allowance account are
recognized in profit or loss.
If, in a subsequent period, the amount of the impairment loss decreases and the decrease can be related objectively to an event
occurring after the impairment was recognized, the previously recognized impairment loss is reversed through the statement of
loss to the extent that the carrying amount of the financial asset at the date the impairment is reversed does not exceed what the
amortized cost would have been had the impairment not been recognized.
Financial instruments recorded at fair value:
Financial instruments recorded at fair value on the consolidated statements of financial position are classified using a fair value
hierarchy that reflects the significance of the inputs used in making the measurements. The fair value hierarchy has the
following levels:
Level 1 - valuation based on quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
Level 2 - valuation techniques based on inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the
asset or liability, either directly (i.e. as prices) or indirectly (i.e. derived from prices); and
Level 3 - valuation techniques using inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data
(unobservable inputs).
As at December 31, 2017, the Company’s Investment on the consolidated statement of financial position was recorded at level
1 with a fair value of $5,339 (December 31, 2016 - $7,320).
Impairment of non-financial assets
At the end of each reporting period, the Company reviews the carrying amounts of its non-financial assets with finite lives to
determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. Where such an indication exists,
the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss. The recoverable
amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less cost to sell or its value in use. In addition, long-lived assets that are not
amortized are subject to a periodic impairment assessment. The Company evaluates impairment losses for potential reversals
when events or circumstances warrant such consideration.
- 7 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
2.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Exploration and evaluation properties
The acquisition costs of exploration and evaluation properties are deferred until the properties are placed into production, sold
or abandoned. These costs are then expected to be amortized on a unit-of-production basis over the estimated useful life of the
related property following the commencement of production, or written off if the properties are sold, allowed to lapse or
abandoned, or when impairment has been determined to have occurred. If the exploration and evaluation property costs are
determined not to be recoverable over the estimated useful life of the property or are greater than the estimated fair market value
of the property, the unrecoverable portion is charged to profit or loss in that period.
The acquisition costs of exploration and evaluation properties include the cash consideration and the estimated fair market
value of share-based payments issued for such property interests.
Exploration costs are expensed in the period incurred. Option payments which are solely at the Company’s discretion are
recorded as acquisition costs as they are made. Administrative expenditures are expensed in the period incurred.
The Company evaluates impairment losses for potential reversals when events or circumstances warrant such consideration.
Credit on duties refundable for losses and refundable tax credit for resources
Tax credits for resources and credits on duties are recorded as a reduction of the related expenses or capital expenditures in the
period the expenses are incurred, provided that the Company has reasonable assurance the tax credit for resources and credit on
duties will be realized.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents in the statement of financial position comprise cash at banks, on hand and short-term money market
investments with original maturities of 90 days or less which are readily convertible into a known amount of cash. The
Company’s cash and cash equivalents are invested with major financial institutions in business accounts and are available on
demand by the Company. When cash and cash equivalents include an amount to be incurred in relation to a flow-through
commitment, an amount equal to the minimum commitment is kept in a separate bank account. As at December 31, 2017 and
2016, the Company had no cash equivalents.
Provisions
A provision is recognized when the Company has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past event, it is
probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation, and the amount of the obligation can be
reliably estimated. If the effect is material, provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax
rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and, where appropriate, the risks specific to the
liability.
A provision for onerous contracts is recognized when the expected benefits to be derived by the Company from a contract are
lower than the unavoidable cost of meeting its obligations under the contract.
The Company had no material provisions at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.
- 8 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
2.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Property and equipment
Property and equipment are carried at cost, less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses.
The cost of an item of property and equipment consists of the purchase price, any costs directly attributable to bringing the asset
to the location and condition necessary for its intended use and an initial estimate of the costs of dismantling and removing the
item and restoring the site on which it is located. Repairs and maintenance costs are charged to profit or loss during the period
in which they are incurred.
An asset's residual value, useful life and amortization method are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, on an annual basis.
An item of property and equipment is derecognized upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected to arise
from the continued use of the asset. Any gain or loss arising on disposal of the asset, determined as the difference between the
net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset, is recognized in profit or loss.
Where an item of property and equipment consists of major components with different useful lives, the components are
accounted for as separate items of property and equipment. Expenditures incurred to replace a component of an item of property
and equipment that is accounted for separately, including major inspection and overhaul expenditures, are capitalized.
Amortization is recognized based on the cost of an item of property and equipment, less its estimated residual value, over its
estimated useful life at the following rates:
Detail
Exploration equipment
Computer equipment
Office equipment
Share-based payment transactions
Rate
33%
3 years
20%
Method
Declining
Straight-line
Declining
The fair value of stock options granted to employees is recognized as an expense over the vesting period with a corresponding
increase in equity. An individual is classified as an employee when the individual is an employee for legal or tax purposes
(direct employee) or provides services similar to those performed by a direct employee, including directors of the Company.
The fair value is measured at the grant date and recognized over the period during which the options vest. The fair value of the
options granted is measured using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, taking into account the terms and conditions upon
which the options were granted. At each reporting date, the amount recognized as an expense is adjusted to reflect the actual
number of stock options that are expected to vest.
Where the terms of an equity-settled award are modified, the minimum expense recognized is the expense as if the terms had
not been modified. An additional expense is recognized for any modification which increases the total fair value of the
share-based payment arrangement, or is otherwise beneficial to the employee as measured at the date of modification.
Unexercised expired and modified stock option values are transferred to deficit.
Where equity instruments are granted to non-employees, they are recorded at the fair value of the goods or services received in
the statement of comprehensive loss. When the value of goods or services received in exchange for the share-based payment
cannot be reliably estimated, the transaction is measured at the fair value of the equity instrument granted.
- 9 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
2.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Non-current assets held for sale
Non-current assets are classified as held for sale if their carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction
rather than through continuing use. This condition is regarded as met only when the sale is highly probable and the asset is
available for immediate sale in its present condition. Management must be committed to the sale, which should be expected to
qualify for recognition as a completed sale within one year from the date of classification. Non-current assets classified as held
for sale are measured at the lower of their previous carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell.
Income taxes
Income tax on the profit or loss for the periods presented comprises current and deferred tax. Income tax is recognized in profit
or loss except to the extent that it relates to items recognized directly in equity, in which case it is recognized in equity.
Current tax expense is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the period, using tax rates enacted or substantively
enacted at period end, adjusted for amendments to tax payable with regards to previous years.
Deferred tax is provided using the statement of financial position liability method, providing for temporary differences between
the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. The
following temporary differences are not provided for: goodwill not deductible for tax purposes and the initial recognition of
assets or liabilities that affect neither accounting nor taxable profit. The amount of deferred tax provided is based on the
expected manner of realization or settlement of the carrying amount of assets and liabilities, using tax rates enacted or
substantively enacted at the financial position reporting date.
A deferred tax asset is recognized only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which
the asset can be utilized.
Equity
Share capital, stock options, warrants and broker units are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the
issuance of shares, warrants and broker units are recognized as a deduction from equity and allocated between share capital and
warrants. Expired stock options and warrants are transferred to deficit.
Flow-through shares
The Company finances some exploration expenditures through the issuance of flow-through shares. The resource expenditure
deductions for income tax purposes are renounced to investors in accordance with the appropriate income tax legislation. When
the common shares are offered, the difference (“premium”) between the amount recognized in common shares and the amount
the investors pay for the shares is recognized as a flow-through share related liability which is reversed into the statement of
loss when the eligible expenditures are incurred. The amount recognized as a flow-through share related liability represents the
difference between the quoted price of the common shares and the amount the investor pays for the flow-through shares. The
Company indemnifies the subscribers of flow-through shares for additional taxes payable by the subscribers if the Company
does not meet its expenditure requirements.
- 10 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
2.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Restoration, rehabilitation and environmental obligations
A legal or constructive obligation to incur restoration, rehabilitation and environmental costs may arise when environmental
disturbance is caused by the exploration, development or ongoing production of a property interest. Such costs arising from the
decommissioning of plant and other site preparation work, discounted to their net present value, are provided for and
capitalized at the start of each project to the carrying amount of the asset, as soon as the obligation to incur such costs arises.
Discount rates using a pretax rate that reflects the time value of money are used to calculate the net present value. These costs
are charged against profit or loss over the economic life of the related asset, through amortization using either a
unit-of-production or the straight-line method as appropriate. The related liability is adjusted for each period for the unwinding
of the discount rate and for changes to the current market-based discount rate, amount or timing of the underlying cash flows
needed to settle the obligation. Costs for restoration of subsequent site damage that is created on an ongoing basis during
production are provided for at their net present values and charged against profits as extraction progresses.
The Company has no material restoration, rehabilitation and environmental costs as at December 31, 2017 and December 31,
2016 as the disturbance to date is minimal.
Loss per share
The Company presents basic and diluted loss per share data for its common shares, calculated by dividing the loss attributable
to common shareholders of the Company by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.
The diluted loss per share is determined by adjusting the loss attributable to common shareholders and the weighted average
number of common shares outstanding for the effects of all warrants, finders’ warrants and stock options outstanding that may
add to the total number of common shares. Diluted loss per share does not include the effect of stock options, warrants and
finders’ warrants as they are anti-dilutive. See Notes 11 and 12.
Warrants
Warrants are recognized at fair value on the date of grant and are measured using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.
Unexercised expired warrants are transferred to deficit.
Significant accounting judgments and estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the Company’s management to make judgments,
estimates and assumptions about future events that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and
related notes to the financial statements. Although these estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of the amounts,
events or actions, actual results may differ from those estimates.
The areas which require management to make significant judgments, estimates and assumptions in determining carrying values
include, but are not limited to:
‐ Assets’ carrying values and impairment charges
In the determination of carrying values and impairment charges, management looks at the recoverable amount, being the
higher of value in use and fair value less costs to sell in the case of non-financial assets and at objective evidence, significant
or prolonged decline of fair value on financial assets indicating impairment. These determinations and their individual
assumptions require that management make a decision based on the best available information at each reporting period.
- 11 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
2.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Significant accounting judgments and estimates (continued)
‐ Income and other taxes
Income, value added, withholding and other taxes The Company is subject to income, value added, withholding and other
taxes. Significant judgment is required in determining the Company's provisions for taxes. There are many transactions and
calculations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain during the ordinary course of business. The Company
recognizes liabilities for anticipated tax audit issues based on estimates of whether additional taxes will be due. The
determination of the Company's income, value added, withholding and other tax liabilities requires interpretation of complex
laws and regulations. The Company's interpretation of taxation law as applied to transactions and activities may not coincide
with the interpretation of the tax authorities. All tax related filings are subject to government audit and potential reassessment
subsequent to the financial statement reporting period. Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the
amounts that were initially recorded, such differences will impact the tax related accruals and deferred income tax provisions
in the period in which such determination is made.
‐ Share-based payments
Management determines costs for share-based payments using market-based valuation techniques. The fair value of the
market-based and performance-based non-vested share awards are determined at the date of grant using generally accepted
valuation techniques. Assumptions are made and judgment is used in applying valuation techniques. These assumptions and
judgments include estimating the future volatility of the stock price, expected dividend yield, future employee turnover rates
and future employee stock option exercise behaviors and corporate performance. Such judgments and assumptions are
inherently uncertain. Changes in these assumptions affect the fair value estimates. The Company currently estimates the
expected volatility of its common shares based on historical volatility taking into consideration the expected life of the
options and warrants.
New accounting policies
IFRS 9 – Financial Instruments (“IFRS 9”) was issued by the IASB in November 2009 with additions in October 2010 and will
replace IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement (“IAS 39”). IFRS 9 uses a single approach to determine
whether a financial asset is measured at amortized cost or fair value, replacing the multiple rules in IAS 39. The approach in
IFRS 9 is based on how an entity manages its financial instruments in the context of its business model and the contractual cash
flow characteristics of the financial assets. Most of the requirements in IAS 39 for classification and measurement of financial
liabilities were carried forward unchanged to IFRS 9, except that an entity choosing to measure a financial liability at fair value
will present the portion of any change in its fair value due to changes in the entity’s own credit risk in other comprehensive
income, rather than within profit or loss. The new standard also requires a single impairment method to be used, replacing the
multiple impairment methods in IAS 39. IFRS 9 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Earlier
adoption is permitted. At January 1, 2017, the Company adopted this amendment and there was no material impact on the
Company’s consolidated financial statements.
New accounting standards not yet adopted
IFRS 16 – Leases (“IFRS 16”) was issued in January 2016 and replaces IAS 17 – Leases as well as some lease related
interpretations. With certain exceptions for leases under twelve months in length or for assets of low value, IFRS 16 states that
upon lease commencement a lessee recognises a right-of-use asset and a lease liability. The right-of-use asset is initially
measured at the amount of the liability plus any initial direct costs. After lease commencement, the lessee shall measure the
right-of-use asset at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment. A lessee shall either apply IFRS 16 with
full retrospective effect or alternatively not restate comparative information but recognise the cumulative effect of initially
applying IFRS 16 as an adjustment to opening equity at the date of initial application. IFRS 16 requires that lessors classify each
lease as an operating lease or a finance lease. A lease is classified as a finance lease if it transfers substantially all the risks and
rewards incidental to ownership of an underlying asset. Otherwise it is an operating lease. IFRS 16 is effective for annual
periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019. Earlier adoption is permitted if IFRS 15 has also been applied.
- 12 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
2.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
New accounting standards not yet adopted (continued)
IFRIC 23 – Uncertainty Over Income Tax Treatments (“IFRIC 23”) was issued in June 2017 and clarifies the accounting for
uncertainties in income taxes. The interpretation committee concluded that an entity shall consider whether it is probable that
a taxation authority will accept an uncertain tax treatment. If an entity concludes it is probable that the taxation authority will
accept an uncertain tax treatment, then the entity shall determine taxable profit (tax loss), tax bases, unused tax losses and
credits or tax rates consistently with the tax treatment used or planned to be used in its income tax filings. If an entity
concludes it is not probable that the taxation authority will accept an uncertain tax treatment, the entity shall reflect the effect of
uncertainty in determining the related taxable profit (tax loss), tax bases, unused tax losses and credits or tax rates. IFRIC 23 is
effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019. Earlier adoption is permitted.
3. CAPITAL MANAGEMENT
The Company manages its capital with the following objectives:
to ensure sufficient financial flexibility to achieve the ongoing business objectives including funding of future growth
opportunities, and pursuit of accretive acquisitions; and
to maximize shareholder return through enhancing the share value.
The Company monitors its capital structure and makes adjustments according to market conditions in an effort to meet its
objectives given the current outlook of the business and industry in general. The Company may manage its capital structure by
issuing new shares, repurchasing outstanding shares, adjusting capital spending, or disposing of assets. The capital structure is
reviewed by management and the Board of Directors on an ongoing basis.
The Company considers its capital to consist of equity, comprising share capital, reserves and deficit which at December 31,
2017 totalled $3,411,173 (December 31, 2016 - $1,917,517). The Company manages capital through its financial and
operational forecasting processes. The Company reviews its working capital and forecasts its future cash flows based on
operating expenditures, and other investing and financing activities. The forecast is regularly updated based on its exploration
and development activities. Selected information is regularly provided to the Board of Directors of the Company. The
Company’s capital management objectives, policies and processes have remained unchanged during the years ended December
31, 2017 and 2016. The Company is not subject to any capital requirements imposed by a regulator or lending institution.
4.
FINANCIAL RISK FACTORS
The Company's activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: credit risk, liquidity risk and market risk (including interest
rate, foreign exchange rate and commodity price risk).
Risk management is carried out by the Company's management team under policies approved by the Board of Directors. The
Board of Directors also provides regular guidance for overall risk management. There have been no changes in the risks,
objectives, policies and procedures during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
Credit risk
Credit risk is the risk of loss associated with a counterparty’s inability to fulfill its payment obligations. The Company's credit
risk is primarily attributable to cash balances and amounts receivable. Cash is held with reputable banks, from which
management believes the risk of loss to be remote. Financial instruments included in amounts receivable consist of sales tax
receivable and refundable tax credits from government authorities in Canada. Management believes that the credit risk
concentration with respect to financial instruments included in amounts receivable is remote.
- 13 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
4.
FINANCIAL RISK FACTORS (Continued)
Liquidity risk
The Company's approach to managing liquidity risk is to ensure that it will have sufficient liquidity to meet liabilities when due.
As at December 31, 2017, the Company had a cash balance of $4,394,940 (December 31, 2016 - $2,147,235) to settle accounts
payable and accrued liabilities of $122,862 (December 31, 2016 - $66,577). All of the Company's financial liabilities generally
have contractual maturities of less than 30 days and are subject to normal trade terms.
Market risk
Market risk is the risk of loss that may arise from changes in market factors such as interest rates, foreign exchange rates, and
commodity prices.
Interest rate risk
The Company has cash balances and no interest-bearing debt. The Company's current policy is to invest excess cash in
certificates of deposit or interest bearing accounts at major Canadian chartered banks. The Company periodically monitors the
investments it makes and is satisfied with the creditworthiness of its Canadian chartered banks. Management believes that
interest rate risk is minimal as cash and cash equivalents investments have maturities of three months or less.
Foreign currency risk
The Company's functional and presentation currency is the Canadian dollar. Certain expenditures are transacted in foreign
currencies. As a result, the Company is exposed to fluctuations in these foreign currencies relative to the Canadian dollar. As at
December 31, 2017, approximately $194,487 of cash was held in US dollars (December 31, 2016 - $42,546). Approximately
$930 (December 31, 2016 - $5,028) of account payable was held in US dollars.
Commodity price risk
Commodity price risk could adversely affect the Company. In particular, the Company’s future profitability and viability of
development depends upon the world market price of commodities. Commodity prices have fluctuated widely in recent years.
There is no assurance that, even as commercial quantities of base and/or precious metals may be produced in the future, a
profitable market will exist for them. A decline in the market price of commodities may also require the Company to reduce its
mineral resources, which could have a material and adverse effect on the Company’s value. As at December 31, 2017, the
Company is not a commodities producer. As a result, commodity price risk may affect the completion of future equity
transactions such as equity offerings and the exercise of stock options and warrants. This may also affect the Company's
liquidity and its ability to meet its ongoing obligations.
Sensitivity analysis
Based on management's knowledge and experience, the Company believes the following movements are “reasonably possible”
over a one-year period:
(i)
Based on cash and other working capital balances at December 31, 2017, held in currencies other than the Canadian
dollar, a 10% change in the foreign exchange rates relative to the Canadian dollar would result in a corresponding foreign
exchange gain or loss of approximately $19,450.
(ii)
Based on cash balances at December 31, 2017, a 1% change in interest rates would result in a corresponding interest
income change of approximately $42,000 for the one-year period.
- 14 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
5.
CATEGORIES OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Financial assets:
Loans and receivables
Cash
Amounts receivable
FVTPL
Investment
Financial liabilities:
Other financial liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
December
2017
December
2016
$
4,394,940 $
-
2,147,235
1,475
5,339
7,320
$
122,862 $
66,577
As of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the fair value of all the Company's financial instruments approximates the
carrying value, due to their short-term nature, except as disclosed in Note 7.
6.
AMOUNTS RECEIVABLE AND PREPAID EXPENSES
Sales tax receivable
Other receivable
Prepaid expenses and advances
Refundable tax credits
7.
INVESTMENT
December
2017
December
2016
$
26,124 $
-
13,122
-
30,346
1,475
9,475
15,243
$
39,246 $
56,539
The Company's investment is classified as fair value through profit and loss (“FVTPL”) and is carried at fair value. The balance
is comprised of the following:
Number
of shares
December
2017
December
2016
First Mining Gold Corp.
8,612
$
5,339 $
7,320
The Company holds 8,612 (2016 – 8,612) common shares of First Mining Gold Corp. The unrealized loss of $1,981 for the
year ended December 31, 2017 (2016 – gain of $5,310) was recognized on the consolidated statement of loss.
- 15 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
8.
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Year ended December 31, 2016
Opening net book amount
Amortization for the year
Dispositions
Fair value write-down (assets held for sale)
Closing net book amount
Year ended December 31, 2017
Opening net book amount
Dispositions
Closing net book amount
Exploration
Equipment Equipment
Office
Total
$
$
296,479
(2,104)
(1,184)
(113,191)
896
(71)
(480)
(345)
$ 297,375
(2,175)
(1,664)
(113,536)
$
180,000
$
-
$ 180,000
$
$
180,000
(180,000)
$
-
$
-
-
-
$ 180,000
(180,000)
$
-
The Company sold its exploration equipment and office equipment located in Africa in February 2017 for $180,000. The
equipment was classified as held for sale on the statement of financial position as at December 31, 2016 and was presented at
the carrying value which is the lower of its carrying amount and its estimated fair value less costs to sell, as determined by
management.
9.
EXPLORATION AND EVALUATION PROPERTIES
Canada
Brabant Lake Property – Saskatchewan
As at December 31, 2017, the Company held a 100% interest in certain claims forming the Brabant Lake property in
Saskatchewan.
Pickle Lake Properties - Ontario
The Company holds a 51% interest in the Dorothy-Dobie Lake property and the Kasagiminnis property, both located in the
Pickle Lake Greenstone Belt. The Company also has a 100% interest in the Pickle Lake Gold property which comprises certain
claims acquired in 2009.
In June 2016 (with amendment on February 2, 2017), the Company entered into an agreement with White Metal Resources
Corp. (“White Metal”) whereby White Metal can acquire all of the Company’s interest (“Earned Interest”) in its above Pickle
Lake Gold properties . White Metal may exercise the option and acquire the Earned Interest by completing all of the following
expenditures and cash payments:
- 16 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
9.
EXPLORATION AND EVALUATION PROPERTIES (Continued)
(i) pay $10,000 in cash to Murchison at the signing of the agreement (received);
(ii) pay $15,000 in cash to Murchison on or before the date which is 12 months from the date of the agreement
(received);
(iii) pay $20,000 in cash to Murchison on or before the date which is 24 months from the date of the agreement.
(iv) spend $1,200,000 over three years beginning on the date of the agreement as follows:
i. complete a work commitment of $900,000 on or before the date which is twenty-four (24) months from the
date of the agreement (with at least $250,000 on drilling);
ii. complete a cumulative work commitment of $1,200,000 on or before the date which is thirty-six (36) months
from the date of the agreement (with at least $700,000 on drilling).
(v) once the Earned Interest is completed, Murchison will be entitled to a 1% net smelter return (the “NSR”) of which
fifty percent (50%) can be purchased by White Metal for $1,000,000 and the balance of the other fifty percent
(50%) of the said NSR can be purchased for $1,500,000.
Upon completion of the option payments and expenditures, White Metal will deliver a notice to the Company setting out that it
has exercised the option, and the date of the option notice shall be deemed to be the date in which White Metal’s Earned Interest
in the properties pursuant to the option shall be effective, subject to the Murchison’s NSR.
On July 27, 2017, White Metal assigned its option and right to acquire the Earned Interest to Ardiden Ltd., an Australian
exploration company.
In August 2014, the Company entered into an agreement with Frontline Gold Corporation ("FGC") and White Metal whereby
FGC acquired 100% of the Company's 51% interest and the 49% interest held by White Metal in two claims known as the
Pickle Lake East property. The claims will be subject to a 2% NSR (1% for the Company and 1% to White Metal for which
0.5% can be purchased for $500,000 from each of White Metal and the Company).
HPM Property - Quebec
As at December 31, 2017, the property consisted of 51 claims on which Pure Nickel Inc. has a 50% interest.
- 17 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
10.
SHARE CAPITAL
(a) Authorized Share Capital
The Company’s authorized share capital consists of an unlimited number of common shares.
(b) Issued
Balance - December 31, 2015
Issuance of common shares (i)
Issue costs (i)
Warrants (i)
Issuance of flow-through shares (ii)
Issue costs (ii)
Warrants (ii)
Flow-through premium (ii)
Balance – December 31, 2016
Balance - December 31, 2016
Issuance of common shares (iii)
Issue costs (iii)
Warrants (iii)
Issuance of flow-through shares (iv)
Issue costs (iv)
Flow-through premium (iv)
Balance – December 31, 2017
15,853,695
5,263,000
-
-
4,173,400
-
-
-
25,290,095
25,290,095
7,539,000
-
-
9,714,119
-
-
42,543,214
$
$
$
$
25,416,637
1,315,750
(54,114)
(594,950)
1,252,020
(67,651)
(235,890)
(444,560)
26,587,242
26,587,242
1,507,800
(106,772)
(401,180)
2,331,389
(210,741)
(905,490)
28,802,248
(i) On August 10 and August 31, 2016, Murchison completed two tranches of a non-brokered private placement and issued
respectively 4,103,000 and 1,160,000 units priced at $0.25 per unit for gross proceeds of $1,315,750. Each unit consisted of one
common share and one common share purchase warrant exercisable at $0.30 until August 10, 2018 and August 31, 2018
respectively.
The fair value of the warrants was estimated at $594,950 using the Black-Scholes option model pricing with the following
assumptions: expected dividend yield of 0%, expected volatility of 219% based on historical trading of the Company’s shares,
risk-free interest rate of 0.56%, and expected life of 2 years.
Finders’ fees of $51,625 were paid and 206,500 finders’ warrants valued at $23,340 using the Black-Scholes option model
pricing with the same assumptions in the paragraph above were issued. The finders’ warrants are exercisable into common
shares having the same terms as the private placement warrants at an exercise price of $0.30 for a period of two years.
Directors and officers of the Company acquired 1,730,000 units of the private placement for gross proceeds of $432,500 (Note
14).
(ii) On August 10 and August 31, 2016, Murchison completed two tranches of a non-brokered private placement and issued
respectively 783,400 and 3,390,000 flow-through units priced at $0.30 per unit for gross proceeds of $1,252,020 of which,
$444,560 was allocated to the flow-through premium. Each unit consisted of one flow-through common share and one-half non
flow-through common share purchase warrant exercisable at $0.30 until August 10, 2018 and August 31, 2018 respectively.
The fair value of the warrants was estimated at $235,890 using the Black-Scholes option model pricing with the following
assumptions: expected dividend yield of 0%, expected volatility of 219% based on historical trading of the Company’s shares,
risk-free interest rate of 0.56%, and expected life of 2 years.
- 18 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
10.
SHARE CAPITAL (CONTINUED)
Finders’ fees of $78,540 were paid and 261,800 finders’ warrants valued at $29,600 using the Black-Scholes option model
pricing with the same assumptions in the paragraph above were issued. The finders’ warrants are exercisable into common
shares having the same terms as the private placement warrants at an exercise price of $0.30 for a period of two years.
A director of the Company acquired 333,400 units of the flow-through private placement for gross proceeds of $100,020
(Note 14).
(iii) On December 15 and December 21, 2017, Murchison completed two tranches of a non-brokered private placement and
issued respectively 6,389,000 and 1,150,000 units priced at $0.20 per unit for gross proceeds of $1,507,800. Each unit consisted
of one common share and one-half common share purchase warrant with each full warrant exercisable at $0.24 for a period of 2
years from closing.
The fair value of the warrants was estimated at $401,180 using the Black-Scholes option model pricing with the following
assumptions: expected dividend yield of 0%, expected volatility of 173% based on historical trading of the Company’s shares,
risk-free interest rate of 1.61%, expected life of 2 years and share price of $0.15.
Finders’ fees of $92,400 were paid and 462,000 finders’ warrants valued at $49,170 using the Black-Scholes option model
pricing with the same assumptions in the paragraph above were issued. The finders’ warrants are exercisable into common
shares having the same terms as the private placement warrants at an exercise price of $0.24 for a period of two years.
Directors and officers of the Company acquired 3,800,000 units of the private placement for gross proceeds of $760,000 (Note
14).
(iv) On December 15 and December 21, 2017, Murchison completed two tranches of a non-brokered private placement and
issued respectively 4,617,285 and 5,096,834 flow-through common shares priced at $0.24 per share for gross proceeds of
$2,331,389 of which, $905,490 was allocated to the flow-through premium.
Finders’ fees of $147,233 were paid and 613,470 finders’ warrants valued at $65,290 using the Black-Scholes option model
pricing with the same assumptions in the paragraph above were issued. The finders’ warrants are exercisable into common
shares having the same terms as the private placement warrants at an exercise price of $0.24 for a period of two years.
Directors and officers of the Company acquired 477,000 flow-through common shares for gross proceeds of $114,480
(Note 14).
11. WARRANTS AND FINDERS’ WARRANTS
The following summarizes the warrants and finders’ warrants activity for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:
Balance - December 31, 2015
Issued August 10 and 31, 2016 - Warrants
Issued August 10 and 31, 2016 – Finders’ Warrants
Issue costs
Expired
Balance – December 31, 2016
Number of
Warrants
Grant Date Weighted Average
Fair Value
Exercise Price
2,348,120
7,349,700
468,300
-
(2,348,120)
7,818,000
$
$
229,600
830,840
52,940
(100,434)
(229,600)
783,346
$
$
0.50
0.30
0.30
-
0.50
0.30
- 19 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
11. WARRANTS AND FINDERS’ WARRANTS (Continued)
Balance - December 31, 2016
Issued December 15 and 21, 2017 - Warrants
Issued December 15 and 21, 2017 – Finders’ Warrants
Issue costs
Balance – December 31, 2017
$
7,818,000
3,769,500
1,075,470
-
12,662,970
$
783,346
401,180
114,460
(57,184)
1,241,802
$
$
0.30
0.24
0.24
-
0.28
As at December 31, 2017, the Company had warrants and finders’ warrants outstanding as follows:
Date of Grant
August 10, 2016
August 31, 2016
December 15, 2017
December 21, 2017
12.
STOCK OPTIONS
Number of
Warrants
Exercise
Price ($)
Grant Date
Fair Value ($)
Expiry Date
4,670,400
3,147,600
3,879,942
965,028
12,662,970
0.30
0.30
0.24
0.24
482,058
301,288
364,495
93,961
1,241,802
August 10, 2018
August 31, 2018
December 15, 2019
December 21, 2019
The Company maintains a stock option plan whereby certain key employees, officers, directors and consultants may be granted
stock options for common shares of the Company. The maximum number of common shares that is issuable under the plan was
fixed at 10% of the number of common shares issued and outstanding (a maximum of 5% of the number of common shares
issued and outstanding may be held by any one person). Options expire after a maximum period of five years following the date
of grant. Vesting provisions are determined at the time of each grant.
The following summarizes the stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:
Balance - December 31, 2015
Granted (i) (ii)
Expired
Balance December 31, 2016
Number of
Stock Options
Weighted Average
Exercise Price
$
1,406,100
1,070,000
(167,800)
2,308,300
0.60
0.30
1.26
0.42
(i) On August 22, 2016, the Company granted 600,000 stock options exercisable at $0.30 for 5 years to an officer and director
of the Company. The grant date fair value of the these options of $149,400 was estimated using the Black Scholes valuation
model with the following weighted average assumptions: risk free interest rate – 0.58%, expected volatility – 122% based on
similar companies industry average, expected dividend yield – 0%, expected forfeiture rate of – 0% and expected life – 5 years.
The options vested immediately and the $149,400 fair value was recorded as share-based payment on the Statement of Loss for
the year ended December 31, 2016.
- 20 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
12.
STOCK OPTIONS (Continued)
(ii) On September 27, 2016, the Company granted 470,000 stock options exercisable at $0.30 for 5 years to directors, officers
and consultants of the Company. The grant date fair value of the these options of $117,030 was estimated using the Black
Scholes valuation model with the following weighted average assumptions: risk free interest rate – 0.64%, expected volatility –
122% based on similar companies industry average, expected dividend yield – 0%, expected forfeiture rate of – 0% and
expected life – 5 years. The options vested immediately and the $117,030 fair value was recorded as share-based payment on
the Statement of Loss for the year ended December 31, 2016.
Balance - December 31, 2016
Expired
Balance – December 31, 2017
2,308,300
(174,500)
2,133,800
$
0.42
0.70
0.39
As at December 31, 2017, the Company had incentive stock options issued to directors, officers, employees and key consultants
of the Company outstanding as follows:
Date of Grant
February 28, 2014
December 2, 2014
August 22, 2016
September 27, 2016
Options
Outstanding(1)
Exercise
Price ($)
Grant Date
Fair Value ($)
Expiry Date
Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual Life
(years)
501,500
612,300
600,000
420,000
2,133,800
0.70
0.30
0.30
0.30
0.39
270,810
73,476
149,400
104,580
598,266
February 28, 2019
December 2, 2019
August 22, 2021
September 27, 2021
1.16
1.92
3.64
3.74
2.59
(1) All options are exercisable.
13.
INCOME TAXES
(a) Provision for income taxes
Major items causing the Company’s income tax to differ from the combined Canadian federal and provincial statutory rate of
27% (2016 - 27%) were as follows:
Combined Canadian statutory income tax rate
Loss before income taxes
Expected income tax recovery based on the statutory rate
Adjustment to expected income tax benefit:
Expiry of losses
Differences in tax rates and foreign exchange
Permanent differences and other
Deferred tax assets not recognized
2017
$
27%
(1,179,806)
(316,000)
3,053,000
198,000
187,000
(3,122,000)
2016
$
27%
(645,067)
(173,000)
1,813,000
363,000
(93,000)
(1,910,000)
Deferred income tax recovery
-
-
- 21 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
13.
INCOME TAXES (Continued)
(b) Deferred income tax
Deferred income tax assets have not been recognized in respect of the following deductible temporary differences:
Non-capital losses
Resource properties
Share issue costs - Canada
Other
2017
$
12,923,000
4,749,000
311,000
428,000
2016
$
20,455,000
7,381,000
167,000
561,000
Total
18,411,000
28,564,000
Deferred tax assets have not been recognized in respect of these temporary differences as it is not probable that future taxable
profit will be available against which the Company can use the benefits.
(c) Recognized deferred tax assets and liabilities
Non-capital losses
Unrealized foreign exchange
2017
$
676,000
(676,000)
2016
$
485,000
(485,000)
Total
-
-
(d) As at December 31, 2017, the Company had approximately $4,749,000 (2016 - $4,724,000) of Canadian development and
exploration expenses and foreign exploration and development expenses, which, under certain circumstances, may be utilized
to reduce taxable income of future years.
(e) Tax loss carry-forwards
As at December 31, 2017, the Company had approximately $15,444,000 of non-capital losses in Canada, which may be used to
reduce taxable income in future years. These losses expire from 2025 to 2037.
- 22 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
14. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
a) Remuneration of directors and the officers was as follows:
Salaries and benefits
Share-based payments
2017
2016
$ 190,519
-
$
152,619
261,460
$ 190,519
$
414,069
For the year ended December 31, 2017, the salaries and benefits amount above includes $104,719 (2016 - $72,569 of which
$11,625 (2016 - $16,188) was included in issue costs) for fees invoiced by a corporation controlled by the CFO of the Company
for his services and $85,800 (2016 - $80,050) for fees invoiced by a corporation controlled by the CEO of the Company for his
services as CEO. Also, included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities at December 31, 2017 is $20,780 (2016 - $2,149)
and $nil (2016 - $12,450) owed to corporations controlled by the CFO and CEO, respectively.
b) Private Placement
As part of the private placement completed in December 2017, directors and officers of the Company acquired 3,800,000 units
for gross proceeds of $760,000 and 477,000 flow-through common shares for gross proceeds of $114,480 (Note 10).
As part of the private placement completed in August 2016, directors and officers of the Company acquired 1,730,000 units for
gross proceeds of $432,500 and 333,400 flow-through units for gross proceeds of $100,020 (Note 10).
15. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Flow-Through Obligation
As at December 31, 2017, the Company has to incur $2,331,389 in qualifying exploration expenditures by December 31, 2018
to meet its flow-through commitment. The Company keeps a separate bank account for the flow-through expenses to be
incurred in a minimum amount equal to the flow-through obligation. At this time, management anticipates meeting that
obligation and as a result, no additional provisions are required.
Environmental
The Company's 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 generally becoming more restrictive. The Company
believes its operations are materially in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. The Company has made, and
expects to make in the future, expenditures to comply with such laws and regulations.
Management Contract
The Company is party to a management contract. This contract requires that an additional payment of up to $500,000 be made
upon the occurrence of certain events such as a change of control. As a triggering event has not taken place, the contingent
payment has not been reflected in these consolidated financial statements. The minimum commitment upon termination of this
contract is $128,700. The minimum commitment due within one year under the terms of this contract is $85,800. Effective
January 1, 2018, the management contract was amended and the minimum commitment upon termination of this contract is
$225,000. The minimum commitment due within one year under the terms of this contract is $150,000.
- 23 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
15. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
Litigations
In August 2014, Flemish Investments Burundi S.A. was informed that three Burundian ex-employees have filed claims against
Flemish Investments Burundi S.A. pertaining to severance payments totaling approximately US$10,500 and damages of
approximately US$188,000. In 2015, the Court of Appeal of Bujumbura found in favour of the former employees for an
aggregate amount of approximately US$117,000 plus 6% interest. The Company no longer operates or owns assets in Burundi
and according to Burundian law, the subsidiary’s liability is limited to:
the value of the assets of the subsidiary in Burundi ($nil at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016) or;
the share capital originally invested of US$10,000.
In May 2017, a former director of the Company filed a claim under the Toronto Small Claims Court in an amount of $23,720.
In June 2017, the Company filed a Defense Statement as it believes the claim is without merit. The Company also filed a
Defendant’s Claim against the former director in the amount of $25,000 for breach of fiduciary duty, negligence and negligent
misrepresentation. A court date has been set for June 21, 2018. No amount has been accrued as at December 31, 2017.
16.
SUBSEQUENT EVENT
On January 10, 2018, the Company issued 1,435,000 stock options to officers, directors and consultants. The options are
exercisable at $0.19 for a period of 5 years and vest immediately.
End of Notes to Financial Statements
- 24 -
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2017
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) is intended to supplement the consolidated
financial statements and notes of Murchison Minerals Ltd. (the “Company” or “Murchison”) for the year
ended December 31, 2017 with comparatives for the same period a year earlier. The consolidated
financial statements including comparative figures have been prepared by the Company in accordance
with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) applicable to preparation of financial
statements. This MD&A should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited consolidated financial
statements and accompanying notes for the year ended December 31, 2017, which are available on the
Company’s website (www.murchisonminerals.com). This MD&A covers the most recently completed
financial year end and the subsequent period up to March 22, 2018. The information is presented in
Canadian dollars unless stated otherwise.
OVERALL PERFORMANCE
Description of Business
Murchison is a Canadian based exploration company with a diversified portfolio of properties, including
the high-grade Brabant-McKenzie zinc-copper-silver deposit in north-central Saskatchewan, the HPM
Nickel/Copper/Cobalt project in Quebec and holds gold claims in the Pickle Lake area of northwestern
Ontario which are currently under option to White Metal Resources Corp. The Company expects to
acquire additional properties as attractive opportunities are identified. The Company does not have any
projects that generate revenue at this time. The Company’s ability to carry out its business plan in the
future rests entirely on its ability to secure equity and other financings or realize cash from the sale of
assets.
Trends
The financing, exploration and development of any properties the Company holds or may acquire in the
future will be subject to a number of factors including the commodity prices for minerals, applicable laws
and regulations, political conditions, currency fluctuations, the hiring of qualified people, and obtaining
necessary services in jurisdictions where the Company operates. The current trends relating to these
factors could change at any time and negatively affect the Company’s operations and business. Apart
from these, the risk factors noted under the heading “Uncertainties and Risk Factors” and “Forward
Looking Statement” included this MD&A, management is not aware of any other trends, commitments,
events or uncertainties that would have a material effect on the Company’s business, financial condition
or results of operations.
OUTLOOK
In December 2017, the Company raised $3.84 million which included $2.33 million in flow-through funds.
These flow-through proceeds will allow the Company to further advance the exploration on its mineral
properties with the focus on the Brabant-Mackenzie project (the “Project”) and more specifically on the
resource expansion at the high-grade Brabant-McKenzie zinc-copper-silver deposit (the “Deposit”) in
north-central Saskatchewan as well as testing the numerous newly identified exploration targets.
The Company’s 2017 exploration program was successful in advancing the Project and it continues to
work to advance and de-risk the Project going forward. In January 2018, the Company continued its
exploration programs and initiated a two rig - 11,500 metre drill program on the Project and drilling is
expected to be completed by the end of March 2018. The drilling program is focusing on continuing to
determine the extents and the resource expansion at the Deposit in an effort to increase its resource
from the current 6 million tonnes. The Deposit’s exploration target, based solely on known information in
the geological model to date, is estimated to be between 9 and 11 million tonnes with similar grades as
the current resource. The Company is also drill testing two new promising geophysical targets located
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
within approximately 1.5 kilometres of the Deposit. Should the Company succeed in adding the tonnage
to the Deposit, the Company’s will provide a revised technical report with the new results. The
Company’s near term goal is to advance the Deposit to the stage that would justify an economic review
that would lead to a prefeasibility study. Regionally, the Company will continue to carry out programs to
refine numerous geophysical and known mineralized showings along the 17 kilometre strike of the
property including the Priority 3 and TOM Trend geophysical anomalies. The objective of the regional
program will be to continue defining additional drill targets in an effort to add potential new deposits to
the Project.
The Company has listed its common shares on the TSX Venture exchange and started trading on
Thursday, March 22, 2018. Concurrently, the Company delisted from the Canadian Securities
Exchange.
Management’s objective is to maximize the money spent “in the ground”. The long-term goal remains to
develop the Company’s properties and achieve commercial production. The Company may enter into
partnerships in order to fully exploit the production potential of its exploration assets.
MINERAL PROPERTIES – EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES
Brabant Property – Saskatchewan
The Brabant property is owned 100% by Murchison and is strategically located along Highway 102
between the town of La Ronge to the south and the Athabasca Basin to the north, near major
infrastructure. The Brabant property consists of the Deposit and several additional zinc and copper
occurrences and geophysical anomalies along the 16 kilometre strike of favourable geological horizon,
all of which remain under-explored and mostly untested. The project area shares geological
characteristics, including similar age, with the Flin Flon volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS) mining
camp in Manitoba.
In October 2017, Murchison published an updated NI43-101 mineral resource estimate (the “Estimate”)
which is reflected in the table below. (see Press Release dated October 4, 2017 for full details). The
Estimate was slightly revised and refiled on SEDAR on March 13, 2018.
Category
Tonnes
Zn%
Cu%
Pb%
Ag (g/t)
Zn Eq%
Indicated
1,500,000
Inferred
4,500,000
7.46
5.99
0.70
0.62
0.39
0.28
31.2
19.4
10.01
7.99
The Estimate for the Brabant-McKenzie Deposit was determined on the basis of:
Drilling results to March 21, 2017 and including historical diamond drilling used in the previous
NI-43-101 resource estimate completed in 2008;
US$ metal prices of $1.20/lb Zn, $2.50/lb Cu, $1.00/lb Pb, $16.00/oz Ag and $1,200/oz Au;
CDN$:US$ exchange rate of $1.10;
An NSR cut-off of $110/tonne or 5% Zn equivalent based on above metal prices;
Average metallurgical and payable recovery of 75% for all metals;
Indicated Resources were calculated using a two-hole minimum and a maximum distance of
30 m from a diamond drill hole; and
2
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
Inferred Resources were calculated using a no-hole minimum and a minimum of 30 m and a
maximum distance of 60 m from a diamond drill hole was used for inferred.
Prior to the announcement of the Estimate, the Company reported results from its summer exploration
activities and interpretation of geological and geophysical programs for the Brabant McKenzie project.
(see Press Release dated September 18, 2017 for full details)
1. Initial modeling and interpretation of the Anomaly C and D 2017 ground SQUID electromagnetic
(“EM”) and magnetic (“Mag”) survey and the 2011 VTEM and Mag airborne survey (the “Data”):
• Confirmed EM Anomaly C as a conductive body and drill target measuring 1.4 km
strike by 1.3 km depth beginning 260 m from surface
•
Identified EM Anomaly D is as a strongly conductive body of size having a 1 km
strike and in excess of 2 km depth, beginning 145 m from surface
• Defined and upgraded two regional anomalies, the TOM2 and Priority 3, as
significant geophysical targets
2. Recent geological prospecting programs
identified chalcopyrite and pyrrhotite sulphide
mineralization proximal to:
• The surface projection of
the modeled EM Anomaly D conductor
• The TOM2 and Priority 3 VTEM and Mag airborne anomalies (the
“Anomalies”)
3. The combination of:
• The modeled EM Anomaly D conductor dimensions and its proximity to
mineralized outcrops presents the potential for the existence of a sulphide body of
size
• The proximity of TOM2 and Priority 3 to mineralization present the potential for
additional massive sulphide bodies at both targets
Based on the identification of mineralization in relation to these geophysical anomalies, the Company
staked an additional 1,873 ha of land adjacent to its current claims package.
The Company conducted additional detailed ground EM and Mag surveys on Anomaly D in November
2017 in order to better define its size and geometries for the results for which were announced on
November 21, 2017 and are as follows:
1. Modeling and interpretation results of additional information for Anomaly D acquired from the
surveys:
• Further refined EM Anomaly D as a strong conductive body with minimum
dimensions of 800 m strike and 800 m depth extent, starting at approximately
20 m below surface
• Display a strong coincidence between high magnetic susceptibility anomalies and
Anomaly D conductivities
• Show similar conductivities and dimensions to the Deposit which is currently
outlined at 1,000 m by 610 m
3
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
2. Recent geological prospecting programs have identified chalcopyrite and pyrrhotite sulphide
mineralization
in
outcrop
exposures
(“Exposures”)
proximal
to
Anomaly D
3. Grab samples of outcrop collected directly over the Exposures returned anomalous copper
geochemistry values
The combination of Anomaly D conductor dimensions, conductivity and proximity to the surface
Exposures hosting anomalous copper geochemistry values continues to demonstrate the potential for
the existence of a massive sulphide body of significant size.
In December 2017, the Company completed a surface time domain electromagnetic (“TDEM”) survey
over the TOM2 anomaly (“TOM2”). The results have defined the presence of a highly conductive
shallow body coincident with magnetic high amplitudes similar to the Deposit. The conductivity of the
TOM2 is equal to or greater than both the Deposit and the Anomaly D target and measures
approximately 400 m by 235 m with a shallow dip of about 23 degrees to the west. TOM2 is located
approximately 7.7 km south-southwest of the Deposit. TOM2 appears to be part of a series of identified
geophysical anomalies, including TOM6, TOM7 and the Ryan Gossan (together, the “TOM Trend”) that
currently trends north over a strike of approximately 3 km.
For additional details, refer to Murchison’s website: www.murchisonminerals.com.
For the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company incurred $1,166,053 (2016 - $106,400) in
exploration expenses on the Brabant-McKenzie property.
Pickle Lake Properties – Ontario
On July 4, 2016, (with amendment on February 2, 2017), the Company entered into an Agreement with
White Metal Resources Corp. (“White Metal”) whereby White Metal can acquire all of the Company’s
51% interest (“Earned Interest”) in its Pickle Lake Gold properties (the “Properties”). White Metal may
exercise the option (the “Option”) and acquire the Earned Interest by completing all of the following
expenditures and cash payments (“Option Payments”):
(i) pay $10,000 in cash to Murchison at the signing of the Agreement (received);
(ii) pay $15,000 in cash to Murchison on or before the date which is 12 months from the date of
the Agreement (received);
(iii) pay $20,000 in cash to Murchison on or before the date which is 24 months from the date of
the Agreement.
(iv) spend $1,200,000 over three years beginning on the date of the Agreement (collectively, the
“Expenditures") as follows:
i. complete a work commitment of $900,000 (as amended on February 2, 2017) on or before
the date which is twenty four (24) months from the date of the Agreement (with at least
$250,000 on drilling); and
ii. complete a cumulative work commitment of $1,200,000 on or before the date which is
thirty-six (36) months from the date of the Agreement (with at least $700,000 on drilling).
(v) once the Earned Interest is completed, Murchison will be entitled to a 1% Net Smelter Return
(the “NSR”) of which fifty percent (50%) can be purchased by White Metal for $1,000,000
and the balance of the other fifty percent (50%) of the said NSR can be purchased for
$1,500,000.
4
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
Upon completion of the Option Payments and Expenditures, White Metal will deliver a notice to the
Company (the "Option Notice") setting out that it has exercised the Option, and the date of the Option
Notice shall be deemed to be the date in which White Metal’s Earned Interest in the Properties pursuant
to the Option shall be effective, subject to the Murchison’s NSR.
On April 7, 2017, White Metal assigned its option and right to acquire the Earned Interest to Ardiden Ltd.,
an Australian exploration company.
HPM Property – Quebec
The HPM project is a 50:50 joint venture with Pure Nickel Inc. No exploration activities were conducted
on the HPM project during 2017. For the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company incurred $823
(2016 - $1,364) in claim maintenance and renewal expenses for the HPM project.
Qualified Persons
Exploration programs at the Company’s project in Saskatchewan are being carried out under the
supervision of Kent Pearson, P. Geo. and Finley Bakker, P. Geo., “Qualified Persons” as defined by
National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Bakker is an independent consultant to Murchison and the Brabant-
McKenzie Project. Mr. Pearson is President and Chief Executive Officer of Murchison. Mr. Pearson and
Mr. Bakker have supervised the preparation of, and confirmed all of the scientific and technical
disclosure in this MD&A.
Access to Properties
The Company’s access to its Canadian properties is dependent on climate and weather conditions. The
Brabant property in Saskatchewan is accessible all year round. Typically, properties in Ontario are
generally accessible all year round. All projects in Québec can be accessed from January to September
as weather limits the activities during other times of the year.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
For the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company incurred a loss of $1,179,806 (2016 - $645,067).
The increase of $534,739 is mainly related to the following factors: 1. higher exploration expenses in
Canada of $1,059,112 (2017 - $1,166,876 vs 2016 - $107,764) as the Company completed a drill
program, geophysical surveys and field exploration at its Brabant-McKenzie project in Saskatchewan
2. higher professional fees of $66,747 (2017 - $104,270 vs 2016 - $37,523) as the Company incurred
legal fees related to the claim from a former director and winding down its African subsidiaries; 3. higher
investor relations expense of $62,298 (2017 - $97,301 vs 2016 - $35,003) as the Company attended
more conferences and advertised in different media; 4. higher management fees and salaries of
$41,085 (2017 - $178,894 vs 2016 - $137,809) as in 2016, management provided services to the
Company without compensation pending a financing, offset by; 5. higher non-cash flow-through shares
related income of $369,440 (2017 - $407,000 vs 2016 - $37,560) as the Company recognized the
income based on exploration activities in Canada 2016; 6. lower share-based payments of $266,430
(2017 - $nil vs 2016 - $266,430) as the Company granted stock options in 2016 and none in 2017, and;
7. lower impairment on assets held for sale of $113,536 (2017 - $nil vs 2016 - $113,536) as the assets
held for sale were fair valued in December 2016.
For the year ended December 31, 2017, exploration expenses totaled $1,156,265 (2016 - $120,612) with
$1,166,053 (2016 - $106,400) at Brabant in Saskatchewan, $823 (2016 - $1,364) at HPM in Quebec
offset by a general exploration recovery of $10,611 (2016 – expense of $12,848).
5
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
SELECTED ANNUAL INFORMATION
The following table sets out financial performance highlights for the last three years and was prepared in
accordance with IFRS.
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
December 31, 2015
Interest Income
Operating Expenses (1)
Loss
Basic and Diluted loss
per share
Total Assets
Exploration Expenses
$10,601
$1,592,447
$1,179,806
$0.05
$4,439,525
$1,156,265
$6,070
$387,972
$645,067
$0.03
$2,391,094
$120,612
$364
$443,871
$874,897
$0.06
$480,869
$123,399
(1) The exploration expenses are included in operating expenses and share-based payments are excluded from operating
expenses.
The interest income fluctuation from year to year is the direct result of the cash balance and short-term
investments available in each of the years. The timing of equity financing and ensuing exploration and
operating expenses are the main factors affecting the level of funds invested from time to time. The
variation in the interest rates also has an impact on the interest income but such variation has been
minimal for the years 2015 to 2017. The higher loss in 2017 was mostly related to the exploration
activities and expenses at Brabant in Saskatchewan. The total assets in 2017 included $4.39 million in
cash compared to $2.15 million in 2016.
SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY RESULTS
Total Assets
Current Assets
Non-current Assets
Total Liabilities
Interest Income
Loss
Loss Per Share (1)
Fourth
Quarter 2017
$
4,439,525
4,434,186
5,339
1,028,352
2,751
253,719
0.01
Third
Quarter 2017
$
1,088,054
1,082,241
5,813
96,624
1,820
131,747
0.01
Second
Quarter 2017
$
1,264,424
1,258,470
5,684
141,247
1,827
84,011
0.00
First
Quarter 2017
$
1,454,540
1,447,478
7,062
247,352
4,203
710,329
0.03
Fourth
Quarter 2016
Third
Quarter 2016
Second
Quarter 2016
First
Quarter 2016
Total Assets
Current Assets
Non-current Assets
Total Liabilities
Interest Income
Loss (profit)
Loss Per Share (1)
(i) Loss per share remains the same on a diluted basis
$2,391,094
$2,383,774
$7,320
$473,577
$4,699
$195,937
$0.01
$2,608,713
$2,313,993
$294,720
$495,259
$1,369
$382,853
$0.02
$381,757
$87,037
$294,720
$105,831
$2
($7,246)
$0.00
$364,675
$69,084
$295,591
$95,995
$nil
$73,523
$0.00
6
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
Due to the nature of the business, the cash balance and short-term investments generating interest
income are subject to fluctuations from quarter to quarter. The timing of equity financing and ensuing
exploration and operating expenses are the main factors affecting the level of funds invested from time to
time. The variation in interest rates also has an impact on the interest income.
In Q4-2017, the Company completed a non-brokered private placement of units and flow-through shares
for gross proceeds of $3,839,189 which triggered the recognition of a $905,490 non-cash flow-through
share liability. In Q1-2017, the Company was actively drilling at its Brabant McKenzie project in
Saskatchewan and incurred $919,910 in exploration. This amount was offset by $326,357 of non-cash
flow-through shares related income. In Q3-2016, the Company completed a non-brokered private
placement in two tranches for net proceeds of $2.4 million. This had a direct impact on the interest
income as well as total current assets and total assets. Also in Q3, 2016, the Company granted stock
options to its directors, officers and consultants which generated a non-cash share-based payment
expense of $266,430. In Q2-2016, the profit of $7,246 is a direct result of a $33,514 gain on sale of
assets held in Africa combined with lower management fees as the CEO and CFO provided services to
the Company without compensation during the quarter. In Q1-2016, the lower loss is reflecting of the
efforts made by management to control all administrative expenses. In Q4-2015, the Company wrote-off
the carrying value of the Cloridorme property of $480,000 and conducted an exploration program at
Brabant of $90,556.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
As at December 31, 2017, the Company had no debt, cash of $4,394,940 and working capital (excluding
flow-through share liability) of $4,311,324 (December 31, 2016 – $2,147,235 and $2,317,197,
respectively). The Company’s excess cash, when available, is deposited into interest-bearing accounts
or invested in redeemable GICs with major Canadian chartered banks.
As at December 31, 2017, the Company had amounts receivable and prepaid expenses totaling $39,246
which included sales tax receivable of $26,124 and prepaid expenses of $13,122.
In February 2017, the remaining exploration equipment located in Africa was sold for net proceeds of
$178,600. The Company also received $15,000 in June 2017 from its option agreement with White
Metal.
The December 31, 2017, consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with
accounting principles applicable to a going concern, which assumes that the Company will be able to
realize its assets and discharge liabilities in the normal course of business. The Company’s ability to
continue as a going concern is always dependent on its ability to raise new funds to meet its obligations
and continue its exploration activities.
Equity Financing
The Company’s exploration projects are at an early stage and it has not yet been determined whether
any of its properties contain economically recoverable ore. As a result, the Company has no current
sources of revenue and has relied on the issuance of shares to generate the funds required to further its
projects.
Private Placement
On December 15 and December 21, 2017, Murchison completed two tranches of a non-brokered private
placement and issued respectively 6,389,000 and 1,150,000 units priced at $0.20 per unit for gross
proceeds of $1,507,800 and respectively 4,617,285 and 5,096,834 flow-through common shares priced
at $0.24 per flow-through share for gross proceeds of $2,331,389. Each unit consisted of one common
share and one-half common share purchase warrant with each full warrant exercisable at $0.24 for a
period of 2 years from closing.
7
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
Finders’ fees of $239,633 were paid and 1,075,470 finders’ warrants valued at $114,460 were issued.
The finders’ warrants are exercisable into common shares having the same terms as the private
placement warrants at an exercise price of $0.24 for a period of 2 years.
Directors and officers of the Company acquired 3,800,000 units of the private placement for gross
proceeds of $760,000 and also acquired 477,000 flow-through common shares for gross proceeds of
$114,480.
All securities issued under the private placement and flow-through private placement were subject to a
four-month and one day statutory hold period.
Warrants
In conjunction with both tranches of the private placement, the Company issued 3,769,500 warrants and
1,075,470 finders’ warrants. All warrants entitle the holder to purchase one common share at an exercise
price of $0.24 for a period of two years from closing.
Stock Options
During 2017, 6,100 stock options exercisable at $7.50, 65,000 stock options exercisable at $0.70 and
103,400 stock options exercisable at $0.30 expired unexercised.
General
The Company’s ability to successfully acquire mineral projects or recover amounts expended on mineral
properties is conditional on its ability to secure financing when required. The Company expects to meet
additional financing requirements through equity financing. The Company may seek other alternatives
for financing in the future depending on market conditions and exploration results; however, there can be
no assurance that such financing attempts will be successful. The impact on our business and the cost
and availability of financing remain uncertain and could affect our overall liquidity.
Commitments and Obligations
As at December 31, 2017, the Company had to incur $2,331,389 in qualifying exploration expenditures
by December 31, 2018 to meet its flow-through commitment as described in note 15 of the financial
statements for the year ended December 31, 2017. The Company keeps a separate bank account for
the flow-through expenses to be incurred in a minimum amount equal to the flow-through obligation. At
this time, management anticipates meeting that obligation and as a result, no additional provisions are
required.
The Company is party to a management contract. This contract requires that an additional payment of up
to $500,000 be made upon the occurrence of certain events such as a change of control. As a triggering
event has not taken place, the contingent payment has not been reflected in these condensed interim
consolidated financial statements. Minimum commitment upon termination of this contract is $128,700.
Minimum commitment due within one year under the terms of this contract is $85,800.
In August 2014, Flemish Investments Burundi S.A. was informed that three Burundian ex-employees
have filed claims against Flemish Investments Burundi S.A. pertaining to severance payments totaling
approximately US$10,500 and damages of approximately US$188,000. In 2015, the Court of Appeal of
Bujumbura found in favour of the former employees for an aggregate amount of approximately
US$117,000 plus 6% interest. The Company no longer operates or owns assets in Burundi and
according to Burundian law, the subsidiary’s liability is limited to:
the value of the assets of the subsidiary in Burundi ($nil at September 30, 2017 and December
31, 2016) or;
the share capital originally invested of US$10,000.
8
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
In May 2017, a former director of the Company filed a claim under the Toronto Small Claims Court in an
amount of $23,720. In June 2017, the Company filed a Defense Statement as it believes the claim is
without merit. The Company also filed a Defendant’s Claim against the former director in the amount of
$25,000 for breach of fiduciary duty, negligence and negligent misrepresentation. A court date has been
set for June 21, 2018.
The Company's 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 generally
becoming more restrictive. The Company believes its operations are materially in compliance with all
applicable laws and regulations. The Company has made, and expects to make in the future,
expenditures to comply with such laws and regulations.
The Company has no long-term contractual obligations.
OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
The Company has no off-balance sheet arrangements.
TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES
a)
Remuneration of directors and the officers was as follows:
Salaries and benefits
Share-based payments
2017
2016
$ 190,519
-
$ 152,619
261,460
$ 190,519
$ 414,069
For the year ended December 31, 2017, the salaries and benefits amount above includes $104,719
(2016 - $72,569 of which $11,625 (2016 - $16,188) was included in issue costs) for fees invoiced by a
corporation controlled by the CFO of the Company for his services and $85,800 (2016 - $80,050) for fees
invoiced by a corporation controlled by the CEO of the Company for his services as CEO. Also, included
in accounts payable and accrued liabilities at December 31, 2017 is $20,780 (December 2016 - $4,596)
and $nil (December 2016 - $7,150) owed to corporations controlled by the CFO and CEO, respectively.
Private Placement
b)
As part of the private placement completed in December 2017, directors and officers of the Company
acquired 3,800,000 units for gross proceeds of $760,000 and 477,000 flow-through common shares for
gross proceeds of $114,480.
PROPOSED TRANSACTIONS
The Company continues to evaluate quality exploration projects and financing opportunities. There are
no transactions currently pending.
9
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES
IFRS 9 – Financial Instruments (“IFRS 9”) was issued by the IASB in November 2009 with additions in
October 2010 and will replace IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement (“IAS 39”).
IFRS 9 uses a single approach to determine whether a financial asset is measured at amortized cost or
fair value, replacing the multiple rules in IAS 39. The approach in IFRS 9 is based on how an entity
manages its financial instruments in the context of its business model and the contractual cash flow
characteristics of the financial assets. Most of the requirements in IAS 39 for classification and
measurement of financial liabilities were carried forward unchanged to IFRS 9, except that an entity
choosing to measure a financial liability at fair value will present the portion of any change in its fair value
due to changes in the entity’s own credit risk in other comprehensive income, rather than within profit or
loss. The new standard also requires a single impairment method to be used, replacing the multiple
impairment methods in IAS 39. IFRS 9 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1,
2018. Earlier adoption is permitted. At January 1, 2017, the Company adopted this amendment and
there was no material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS NOT YET ADOPTED
IFRS 16 – Leases (“IFRS 16”) was issued in January 2016 and replaces IAS 17 – Leases as well as
some lease related interpretations. With certain exceptions for leases under twelve months in length or
for assets of low value, IFRS 16 states that upon lease commencement a lessee recognises a right-of-
use asset and a lease liability. The right-of-use asset is initially measured at the amount of the liability
plus any initial direct costs. After lease commencement, the lessee shall measure the right-of-use asset
at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment. A lessee shall either apply IFRS 16
with full retrospective effect or alternatively not restate comparative information but recognise the
cumulative effect of initially applying IFRS 16 as an adjustment to opening equity at the date of initial
application. IFRS 16 requires that lessors classify each lease as an operating lease or a finance
lease. A lease is classified as a finance lease if it transfers substantially all the risks and rewards
incidental to ownership of an underlying asset. Otherwise it is an operating lease. IFRS 16 is effective
for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019. Earlier adoption is permitted if IFRS 15 has
also been applied.
IFRIC 23 – Uncertainty Over Income Tax Treatments (“IFRIC 23”) was issued in June 2017 and clarifies
the accounting for uncertainties in income taxes. The interpretation committee concluded that an entity
shall consider whether it is probable that a taxation authority will accept an uncertain tax treatment. If an
entity concludes it is probable that the taxation authority will accept an uncertain tax treatment, then the
entity shall determine taxable profit (tax loss), tax bases, unused tax losses and credits or tax rates
consistently with the tax treatment used or planned to be used in its income tax filings. If an entity
concludes it is not probable that the taxation authority will accept an uncertain tax treatment, the entity
shall reflect the effect of uncertainty in determining the related taxable profit (tax loss), tax bases, unused
tax losses and credits or tax rates. IFRIC 23 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January
1, 2019. Earlier adoption is permitted.
10
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Financial assets:
Loans and receivables
Cash and cash equivalents
Amounts receivable
FVTPL
Investments
Financial liabilities:
Other financial liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
2017
2016
$ 4,394,940
-
$ 2,147,235
1,475
5,339
7,320
$ 122,862
$
66,577
As of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the fair value of all the Company's financial
instruments approximates the carrying value, due to their short-term nature, except as for the investment
which is presented at fair value.
As at December 31, 2017, the Company’s financial instrument Investment on the consolidated
statements of financial position was recorded at level 1 with a fair value of $5,339 (2016 - $7,320).
Significant accounting judgments and estimates:
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the Company’s
management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions about future events that affect the
amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and related notes to the financial statements.
Although these estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of the amount, event or actions,
actual results may differ from those estimates.
The areas that require management to make significant judgments, estimates and assumptions in
determining carrying values include, but are not limited to the following:
Assets’ carrying values and impairment charges
In the determination of carrying values and impairment charges, management looks at the higher
of recoverable amount or fair value less costs to sell in the case of assets and at objective
evidence, significant or prolonged decline of fair value on financial assets indicating impairment.
These determinations and their individual assumptions require that management make a decision
based on the best available information at each reporting period.
Income and other taxes
Income tax on the profit or loss for the periods presented comprises current and deferred tax.
Income tax is recognized in profit or loss except to the extent that it relates to items recognized
directly in equity, in which case it is recognized in equity.
Current tax expense is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the period, using tax
rates enacted or substantively enacted at period end, adjusted for amendments to tax payable with
regards to previous years.
Deferred tax is provided using the statement of financial position liability method, providing for
temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting
purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. The following temporary differences are not
provided for: goodwill not deductible for tax purposes and the initial recognition of assets or
11
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
liabilities that affect neither accounting nor taxable profit. The amount of deferred tax provided is
based on the expected manner of realization or settlement of the carrying amount of assets and
liabilities, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the financial position reporting date.
A deferred tax asset is recognized only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits
will be available against which the asset can be utilized.
Share-based payments
for share-based payments using market-based valuation
Management determines costs
techniques. The fair value of the market-based and performance-based non-vested share awards
are determined at the date of grant using generally accepted valuation techniques. Assumptions
are made and judgments used in applying valuation techniques. These assumptions and
judgments include estimating the future volatility of the stock price, expected dividend yield, future
employee turnover rates and future employee stock option exercise behaviors and corporate
performance. Such judgments and assumptions are inherently uncertain. Changes in these
assumptions affect the fair value estimates. The Company currently estimates the expected
volatility of its common shares based on historical volatility taking into consideration the expected
life of the options and warrants.
Capital Management:
The Company manages its capital with the following objectives:
to ensure sufficient financial flexibility to achieve the ongoing business objectives including funding
of future growth opportunities, and pursuit of accretive acquisitions and
to maximize shareholder return through enhancing the share value.
The Company monitors its capital structure and makes adjustments according to market conditions in an
effort to meet its objectives given the current outlook of the business and industry in general. The
Company may manage its capital structure by issuing new shares, repurchasing outstanding shares,
adjusting capital spending, or disposing of assets. The capital structure is reviewed by Management and
the Board of Directors on an ongoing basis.
The Company considers its capital to consist of equity, comprising share capital, reserves and deficit.
The Company manages capital through its financial and operational forecasting processes. The
Company reviews its working capital and forecasts its future cash flows based on operating
expenditures, and other investing and financing activities. The forecast is regularly updated based on its
exploration and development activities. Selected information is regularly provided to the Board of
Directors of the Company. The Company’s capital management objectives, policies and processes have
remained unchanged during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. The Company is not
subject to any capital requirements imposed by a regulator or lending institution.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Outstanding Shareholders’ Equity Data
As of March 22, 2018, the following are outstanding:
Common Shares
Stock Options
Warrants
42,543,214
3,568,800
12,662,970
12
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
Uncertainties and Risk Factors
An investment in the securities of the Company is highly speculative and involves numerous and
significant risks. Such investment should be undertaken only by investors whose financial resources are
sufficient to enable them to assume these risks and who have no need for immediate liquidity in their
investment. Prospective investors should carefully consider the risk factors that have affected, and
which in the future are reasonably expected to affect, the Company and its financial position.
In addition to the risks outlined below, Murchison has identified the extreme volatility occurring in the
financial markets as a significant risk for the Company. As a result of the market turmoil, investors are
moving away from assets they perceive as risky to those they perceive as less so. Companies like
Murchison are considered risk assets and as mentioned above are highly speculative. The volatility in
the markets and investor sentiment may make it difficult for the Company to access the capital markets
to raise the funds required for its future expenditures.
Exploration, Development and Operating Risks
Mining operations generally involve a high degree of risk. The Company’s operations are subject to all
the hazards and risks normally encountered in the exploration, development and production of gold,
precious metals and other minerals, including unusual and unexpected geologic formations, seismic
activity, rock bursts, cave-ins, flooding and other conditions involved in the drilling and removal of
material, any of which could result in damage to, or destruction of, mines and other producing facilities,
damage to life or property, environmental damage and possible legal liability. Although adequate
precautions to minimize risk will be taken, milling operations are subject to hazards such as equipment
failure or failure of retaining dams around tailings disposal areas which may result in environmental
pollution and consequent liability.
The exploration for and development of mineral deposits involves significant risks which even a
combination of careful evaluation, experience and knowledge may not eliminate. While the discovery of a
mineral-bearing structure may result in substantial rewards, few properties which are explored are
ultimately developed into producing mines.
Major expenses may be required to locate and establish mineral reserves, to develop metallurgical
processes and to construct mining and processing facilities at a particular site. It is impossible to ensure
that the exploration or development programs planned by The Company will result in a profitable
commercial mining operation. Whether a gold or other mineral deposit will be commercially viable
depends on a number of factors, some of which are: the particular attributes of the deposit, such as
quantity and quality of mineralization and proximity to infrastructure; mineral prices which are highly
cyclical; and government regulations, including regulations relating to prices, taxes, royalties, land
tenure, land use, importing and exporting of minerals and environmental protection. The exact effect of
these factors cannot be accurately predicted, but the combination of these factors may result in The
Company not receiving an adequate return on invested capital.
There is no certainty that the expenditures made by the Company towards the search and evaluation of
gold or other minerals will result in discoveries of commercial quantities of gold or other minerals.
Country Risk
The Company may conduct business in jurisdictions and some countries in which the title to its
properties may be uncertain or where access to infrastructure, or political stability, or security, among
other things, may be unknown, or known, and prevent, or severely compromise, the Company from
carrying out business. It may be that the Company accepts some or all of these risks, to the extent that
they can be determined at all, in favour of acquiring properties with exceptional exploration and
development potential, and may ultimately be prevented from exploring and developing those properties
for any number of reasons which may, or may not, be predictable, foreseeable, or manageable.
13
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
Currency Risk
The Company’s operations incur the majority of expenditures in Canadian and United States dollars. As
a result of the use of these different currencies, the Company is subject to foreign currency fluctuations,
which may materially affect its financial position and operating results.
Current Economic Conditions
There are significant uncertainties regarding the price of precious metals and other minerals and the
availability of equity financing for the purposes of mineral exploration and development. The prices of
precious metals and other minerals have fluctuated substantially over the past several years. The
Company’s future performance is largely tied to the development of its current mineral properties and the
overall financial markets. Current financial markets are likely to be volatile for the remainder of the
calendar year, reflecting ongoing concerns about the stability of the global economy and global growth
prospects. As well, concern about global growth has led to sustained drops in the commodity markets for
commodities other than gold. As a result, the Company may have difficulties raising equity financing for
the purposes of mineral exploration and development, particularly without excessively diluting present
shareholders of the Company. These economic trends may limit the Company’s ability to develop and/or
further explore its mineral property interests.
Limited Operating History
The Company has a very limited history of operations, is in the early stage of exploration and must be
considered a start-up company. As such, the Company is subject to many risks common to such
enterprises, including under-capitalization, cash shortages, limitations with respect to personnel, financial
and other resources and lack of revenues. It is common in new mining operations to experience
unexpected problems and delays. In addition, delays in the commencement of mineral production often
occur. There is no assurance that the Company will be successful in achieving a return on shareholders’
investment or successfully establish mining operations and the likelihood of success must be considered
in light of its early stage of operations.
Reliability of Resource Estimates
There is no certainty that any mineral resources identified in the future on any of the Company’s
properties will be realized. Until a deposit is actually mined and processed the quantity of mineral
resources and grades must be considered as estimates only. In addition, the quantity of mineral
resources may vary depending on, among other things, metal prices. Any material change in quantity of
mineral resources, grade or stripping ratio may affect the economic viability of any project undertaken by
the Company. In addition, there can be no assurance that gold recoveries or other metal recoveries in
small-scale laboratory tests will be duplicated in a larger scale test under on-site conditions or during
production.
Fluctuations in gold and other base or precious metals prices, results of drilling, metallurgical testing and
production and the evaluation of studies, reports and plans subsequent to the date of any estimate may
require revision of such estimate. Any material reductions in estimates of mineral resources could have a
material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations and financial condition from time to time.
Insurance and Uninsured Risks
The Company’s business is subject to a number of risks and hazards generally, including adverse
environmental conditions, industrial accidents, labour disputes, unusual or unexpected geological
conditions, ground or slope failures, cave-ins, changes in the regulatory environment and natural
phenomena such as inclement weather conditions, floods and earthquakes. Such occurrences could
result in damage to mineral properties or production facilities, personal injury or death, environmental
damage to The Company’s properties or the properties of others, delays in mining, monetary losses and
possible legal liability.
14
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
Although the Company may in the future maintain insurance to protect against certain risks in such
amounts as it considers to be reasonable, its insurance will not cover all the potential risks associated
with a mining company’s operations. The Company may also be unable to maintain insurance to cover
these risks at economically feasible premiums. Insurance coverage may not continue to be available or
may not be adequate to cover any resulting liability. Moreover, insurance against risks such as
environmental pollution or other hazards as a result of exploration and production is not generally
available to the Company or to other companies in the mining industry on acceptable terms. The
Company might also become subject to liability for pollution or other hazards which may not be insured
against or which the Company may elect not to insure against because of premium costs or other
reasons. Losses from these events may cause the Company to incur significant costs that could have a
material adverse effect upon its financial performance and results of operations.
Environmental Risks and Hazards
All phases of the Company’s operations are subject to environmental regulation in the jurisdictions in
which it operates. These regulations mandate, among other things, the maintenance of air and water
quality standards and land reclamation. They also set forth limitations on the generation, transportation,
storage and disposal of solid and hazardous waste. Environmental legislation is evolving in a manner
which will require stricter standards and enforcement, increased fines and penalties for non-compliance,
more stringent environmental assessments of proposed projects and a heightened degree of
responsibility for companies and their officers, directors and employees. There is no assurance that
future changes in environmental regulation, if any, will not adversely affect the Company’s operations.
Environmental hazards may exist on the properties on which the Company holds interests which are
unknown to the Company at present and which have been caused by previous or existing owners or
operators of the properties.
Government approvals and permits are currently, and may in the future be required in connection with
the Company’s operations. To the extent such approvals are required and not obtained, the Company
may be curtailed or prohibited from continuing its exploration or mining operations or from proceeding
with planned exploration or development of mineral properties.
Failure to comply with applicable laws, regulations and permitting requirements may result in
enforcement actions thereunder, including orders issued by regulatory or judicial authorities causing
operations to cease or be curtailed, and may include corrective measures requiring capital expenditures,
installation of additional equipment, or remedial actions. Parties engaged in mining operations or in the
exploration or development of mineral properties may be required to compensate those suffering loss or
damage by reason of the mining activities and may have civil or criminal fines or penalties imposed for
violations of applicable laws or regulations.
Amendments to current laws, regulations and permits governing operations and activities of mining and
exploration companies, or more stringent implementation thereof, could have a material adverse impact
on the Company and cause increases in exploration expenses, capital expenditures or production costs
or reduction in levels of production at producing properties or require abandonment or delays in
development of new mining properties.
Infrastructure
Mining, processing, development and exploration activities depend, to one degree or another, on
adequate infrastructure. Reliable roads, bridges, power sources and water supply are important
determinants, which affect capital and operating costs. Unusual or infrequent weather phenomena,
sabotage, government or other interference in the maintenance or provision of such infrastructure could
adversely affect the Company’s operations, financial condition and results of operations.
15
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
Land Title
No assurances can be given that there are no title defects affecting property or any other property
interests of the Company. Title insurance generally is not available, and the Company’s ability to ensure
that it has obtained secure claim to individual mineral properties or mining concessions may be severely
constrained. Furthermore, the Company has not conducted surveys of the claims in which it holds an
interest and, therefore, the precise area and location of such claims may be in doubt. Accordingly, the
Company’s mineral properties may be subject to prior unregistered liens, agreements, transfers or
claims, including native land claims, and title may be affected by, among other things, undetected
defects. In addition, the Company may be unable to operate its properties as permitted or to enforce its
rights with respect to its properties.
Competition
The mining industry is competitive in all of its phases. The Company faces strong competition from other
mining companies in connection with the acquisition of properties producing, or capable of producing,
precious and base metals. Many of these companies have greater financial resources, operational
experience and technical capabilities than the Company. As a result of this competition, the Company
may be unable to maintain or acquire additional attractive mining properties on terms it considers
acceptable or at all. Consequently, the Company’s revenues, operations and financial condition could be
materially adversely affected.
Additional Capital
The development and exploration of the Company’s properties will require substantial additional
financing.
Failure to obtain sufficient financing may result in the delay or indefinite postponement of exploration,
development or production on any or all of the Company’s properties or even a loss of property interest.
The primary source of funding available to the Company consists of equity financing. There can be no
assurance that additional capital or other types of financing will be available if needed or that, if available,
the terms of such financing will be favourable to the Company.
Commodity Prices
The price of the Company’s common shares, the Company’s financial results and exploration,
development and mineral development activities may in the future be significantly adversely affected by
declines in the price of precious metals or other minerals. The price of precious metals and other
minerals fluctuates widely and is affected by numerous factors beyond the Company’s control such as
the sale or purchase of commodities by various central banks and financial institutions, interest rates,
exchange rates, inflation or deflation, fluctuation in the value of the United States dollar and foreign
currencies, global and regional supply and demand, the political and economic conditions of major
mineral-producing countries throughout the world, and the cost of substitutes, inventory levels and
carrying charges. Future serious price declines in the market value of precious metals or other minerals
could cause continued development of and commercial production from the Company’s properties to be
impracticable. Depending on the price of precious metals and other minerals, cash flow from mining
operations may not be sufficient and the Company could be forced to discontinue production and may
lose its interest in, or may be forced to sell, some of its properties. Future production from the Company’s
mineral exploration properties is dependent upon the prices of precious metals and other minerals being
adequate to make these properties economic.
In addition to adversely affecting the Company’s future resource or reserve estimates, if any, and its
financial condition, declining commodity prices can impact operations by requiring a reassessment of the
feasibility of a particular project. Such a reassessment may be the result of a management decision or
may be required under financing arrangements related to a particular project. Even if the project is
ultimately determined to be economically viable, the need to conduct such a reassessment may cause
substantial delays or may interrupt operations until the reassessment can be completed.
16
MURCHISON MINERALS LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS – DECEMBER 2017
Government Regulation
The development and mineral exploration activities of the Company are subject to various laws
governing prospecting, development, production, taxes, labour standards and occupational health, mine
safety, toxic substances, land use, water use, land claims of local people and other matters. In addition,
no assurance can be given that new rules and regulations will not be enacted or that existing rules and
regulations will not otherwise be applied in a manner which could limit or curtail production or
development in any of the jurisdictions in which the Company operates. Amendments to other current
laws and regulations governing mineral exploration and development or more stringent implementation
thereof could also have a substantial adverse impact on the Company.
Dividend Policy
No dividends on the common shares have been paid by the Company to date. Payment of any future
dividends will be at the discretion of the Company’s board of directors after taking into account many
factors, including the Company’s operating results, financial condition and current and anticipated cash
needs.
Dilution to the Company Common Shares
As of March 22, 2018, the Company had 42,543,214 common shares and 16,231,770 convertible
securities issued and outstanding. The increase in the number of securities issued and outstanding and
the possibility of sales of such shares may have a depressive effect on the price of the common shares.
In addition, as a result of such additional securities, the voting power of the existing shareholders in the
Company will be diluted.
Key Executives
The Company is dependent on the services of key executives, including the directors of Murchison and a
small number of highly skilled and experienced executives and personnel. Due to the relatively small size
of the Company, the loss of these persons or the Company’s inability to attract and retain additional
highly skilled employees may adversely affect its business and future operations.
Conflicts of Interest
Certain of the directors and officers of the Company also serve as directors and/or officers of other
companies involved in natural resource exploration and development and consequently there exists the
possibility for such directors and officers to be in a position of conflict. Any decision made by any of such
directors and officers involving Murchison should be made in accordance with their duties and
obligations to deal fairly and in good faith with a view to the best interests of Murchison and its
shareholders. In addition, each of the directors is required to declare and refrain from voting on any
matter in which such directors may have a conflict of interest in accordance with the procedures set forth
in the Canada Business Corporations Act and other applicable laws.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This document contains forward-looking statements based on the Company’s current expectations.
Forward-looking information can often be identified by forward looking words such as “anticipate”,
“believe”, “expect”, “goal”, “plan”, “intend”, “estimate” or similar words suggesting future outcomes, or
other expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, intentions or statements about future events
or performance.
These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause
actual results to differ materially from those presented in this document. Accordingly, the Company
undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management’s
estimates or opinions should change, unless required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue
reliance on forward-looking information.
17