UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
x ANNUAL REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018
o TRANSITION REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ____________ to ____________
Commission file number 333-174287
MAGELLAN
GOLD CORPORATION
(Name of Registrant in its Charter)
Nevada (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) |
27-3566922 I.R.S. Employer Identification Number |
500 Marquette Avenue NW, Albuquerque,
NM 87102
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip
Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (707) 884-3766
Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act: None
Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes o No x
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act. Yes o No x
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes x No o
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. x
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and” smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (check one):
Large accelerated filer o | Accelerated filer o |
Non-accelerated filer o | Smaller Reporting Company x |
Emerging growth company x |
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No x
The aggregate market value of the 1,158,543 shares of voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the Company calculated by taking the last sales price of the Company's common stock of $1.525 on June 29, 2018 was $1,766,778.081.
The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common stock, as of April 11, 2019 is 3,529,003.
List hereunder the following documents if incorporated by reference and the Part of the Form 10-K (e.g., Part I, Part II, etc.) into which the document is incorporated: (1) Any annual report to security holders; (2) Any proxy or information statement; and (3) Any prospectus filed pursuant to Rule 424(b) or (c) under the Securities Act of 1933. The listed documents should be clearly described for identification purposes:
None.
____________
1 The closing price of $1.525 on June 29, 2018 gives retroactive effect to the one-for-fifty (1-for-50) reverse stock split which was effective on January 7, 2019 (the “Reverse Split”).
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In General
This report contains statements that plan for or anticipate the future. In this report, forward-looking statements are generally identified by the words "anticipate," "plan," "believe," "expect," "estimate," and the like.
With respect to our mineral exploration business, these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the following:
* | the risk factors set forth below under “Risk Factors”; | |
* | risks and hazards inherent in the mining business (including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, weather or geologically related conditions); | |
* | uncertainties inherent in our exploratory and developmental activities, including risks relating to permitting and regulatory delays; | |
* | our future business plans and strategies; | |
* | our ability to commercially develop our mining interests.; | |
* | changes that could result from our future acquisition of new mining properties or businesses; | |
* | expectations regarding competition from other companies; | |
* | effects of environmental and other governmental regulations; | |
* | the worldwide economic downturn and difficult conditions in the global capital and credit markets; and | |
* | our ability to raise additional financing necessary to conduct our business. |
Forward looking statements may include estimated mineral reserves and resources which could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements include:
* | the risk factors set forth below under “Risk Factors”; | |
* | changes in the market prices of precious minerals, including gold; and | |
* | uncertainties inherent in the estimation of ore reserves. |
Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. We disclaim any intent or obligation to update publicly these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements made in this Report, the inclusion of this information should not be regarded as a representation by us or any other person that our objectives and plans will be achieved.
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ITEM 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
About Our Company
Magellan Gold Corporation (“Magellan”, “the Company”, “our” or “we”) was formed and organized effective September 28, 2010, under the laws of the State of Nevada. We are an exploration stage company and our principal business is the acquisition and exploration of mineral resources in Arizona, Nevada and Mexico. We have not presently determined whether the properties to which we have mining rights contain mineral deposits that are economically recoverable.
We were formed and organized by Athena Silver Corporation (“Athena”), a Delaware corporation, and by John C. Power and John D. Gibbs, two of the control persons and principal shareholders of Athena. Effective September 2010, we issued an aggregate of 660,000 shares of common stock to our founders in consideration of $0.125 per share: 600,000 shares were issued to Messrs. Power and Gibbs and 60,000 shares were issued to Athena. During 2011, the majority of the shares issued to Athena were distributed, in the nature of a spin-off dividend of such shares, to the shareholders of Athena, as of a Record Date of December 31, 2010, pro rata.
Our focus is on projects in Arizona and Mexico.
Silver District, La Paz County, Arizona
In August 2012, we entered into an Option Agreement with Columbus Silver (US) Corporation (“Columbus”) to purchase “The Silver District Claims” consisting of 85 unpatented lode mining claims, 4 patented lode claims, an Arizona State Exploration Permit of 154.66 acres and 23 unpatented mill site claims, totaling over 2,000 acres in La Paz County, Arizona. The underlying claims are subject to third party lease and or purchase obligations and net smelter royalties of varying percentages. In June and July 2013, Magellan staked 9 additional unpatented lode mining claims in the Silver District adjacent to the land package under option from Columbus; the Company currently retains 2 of these original 9 claims. Effective September 29, 2014, we entered into a Purchase Agreement with Columbus Silver (US) Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Columbus Exploration Corporation (TSXV:CLX) to purchase the patented and unpatented mining claims that had been covered by the Option Agreement. The Purchase Agreement superseded the Option Agreement and conveyed the Silver District Claims to the Company. In consideration of the Silver District Claims, we made a one-time payment to Columbus in the amount of $100,000. Following our purchase of the Silver District Claims, we formed a new wholly-owned subsidiary “Gulf + Western Industries, Inc.” (“Gulf + Western”) and transferred our interest in the Silver District Claims to Gulf + Western.
In November 2015 we were granted a new Arizona State Exploration Permit that effectively increases the size of our exploration permit in the Silver District from 154.66 acres to 334.85 acres.
The Company continues to pursue the Silver District property but fully impaired the capitalized value of $323,200 during the year ended December 31, 2018.
SDA Mill Acquisition
On November 30, 2017, the Company purchased from Rose Petroleum plc (“Rose”) a mineral processing mill operation located in the state of Navarit, Mexico (the “SDA Mill”) as well as its associated assets, licenses and agreements. Magellan previously had paid a $50,000 option payment, and an additional $100,000 option-to-purchase extension. The $100,000 option extension payment was applied against the cash portion of the purchase price.
The purchase price for the SDA Mill consisted of $850,000 cash, a $50,000 promissory note, the $50,000 non-refundable option payment, the $100,000 option-to-purchase payment, and 284,017 shares of common stock (the “Shares”) with a fair value of $426,025 on the date of acquisition. The note was non-interest bearing and has been paid in full. The Shares will be held in escrow for a period of 12 months and the Company has the option to repurchase the Shares from Rose for the sum of $500,000 in the first six months and $550,000 in months seven to twelve.
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Rose owned one share of Series A capital stock of Minerales Vane S.A. de C.V. (“Minerales Vane 1”) and Vane Minerals (UK) Limited (“Vane UK”) owned 49,999 shares of Series A capital stock and 26,524,000 shares of Series B capital stock of Minerales Vane 1.
Prior to closing, all of the assets and operations related to the SDA Mill were transferred to a newly incorporated entity, Minerales Vane 2 S.A. de C.V. (“Minerales Vane 2”). Effective November 30, 2017, the Company’s newly incorporated wholly-owned subsidiary, Magellan Acquisition Corporation (“MAC”), acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding shares of Minerales Vane 2.
On October 17, 2017, the Company amended the agreement to include the acquisition of Minerales VANE Operaciones (“MVO”) (the entity that provides labor to the SDA Mill) for $2,500 as soon as practicable following the Closing Date, rather than prior to the Closing Date. At December 31, 2017, the Company had not obtained control of MVO. Magellan subsequently acquired control of MVO in January 2018 and paid for it in April 2018.
Our primary focus with the acquisition of the SDA Mill in Mexico is to transform Magellan into a production company, to continue to advance our Arizona silver project towards resource definition and eventual development, and possibly to acquire additional mineral rights and conduct additional exploration, development and permitting activities. Our mineral lease payments, permitting applications and exploration and development efforts will require additional capital.
Subsequent to the closing, Rose and Magellan entered into an IVA Agreement pursuant to the provisions of the definitive Purchase Agreement. Under the terms of the IVA Agreement, Rose advanced the sum of MXN 4,251,840 which was used to pay the IVA tax assessed by the Mexican taxing authorities on the acquisition transaction. Magellan has agreed that Rose is entitled to any future credits or rebates of IVA tax that Magellan may be entitled to until the advance is fully recouped.
El Dorado Acquisition
In August, 2018, the Company entered into an agreement giving it the right to acquire the El Dorado Gold-Silver Property, a 50 hectare mining concession located near the village of Las Minitas, which lies 50 kilometers south of Magellan’s SDA Flotation Plant at Acaponeta, Nayarit State. Magellan intends to advance El Dorado towards production as a matter of priority. The Company has initiated permitting and is in the process of selecting an underground mining contractor. The project has excellent road and rail infrastructure, and the Company plans to truck the mineralized material from El Dorado to the SDA Plant for processing. El Dorado is situated within a district of epithermal vein systems from which historic mining produced high grades.
Commencement of mining will depend on a number of preconditions, the most important of which include obtaining environmental and blasting permits, selecting and mobilizing a mining contractor and procuring financing. An access and land use agreement with the local ejido already is in place. Once development begins, mineralized material will be accessible with a minimal amount of underground development. Mineralized material will be sourced initially from the shallow, upper portions of the mineralized veins.
Drilling on the El Dorado vein system was conducted by a TSX.V-listed company in 2010-2011 and comprised 28 diamond core holes totaling 4,950 meters. Two veins appear to offer particular promise for mining, namely the Hundido and Intermedia veins. These veins lie adjacent to and along strike from the old Hundido Mine, which from 1900-1927 produced an estimated 50,000 tonnes of high-grade gold-silver ore. The veins are steeply-dipping, highly silicified structures cutting volcanic rocks. Polygonal resource calculations for the two veins, based on intersections in 10 core holes and after applying a 25% tonnage deduction for dilution and recovery factors, yielded respectively 89,000 tonnes grading 7.01 g/t gold equivalent (Au+Ag) over a true width of 2.3 meters (Hundido Vein); and 91,000 tonnes grading 15.17 g/t gold equivalent (Au+Ag) over a true width of 8.3 meters (Intermedia Vein). These mineralized materials do not constitute ore reserves under SEC Industry Guide 7, The mineralization extends from near surface to a drilled depth of 150 meters and is open at greater depth.
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The El Dorado vein system can be traced on the surface for a distance greater than three kilometers and exhibits structural complexity with numerous conjugate vein splits both in the hangingwall and footwall. This complex structure hosts multiple mineralized zones including high-grade veins potentially minable underground, and lower-grade open-pittable stockwork zones that are observed to extend over tens of meters in width in both the hangingwall and footwall of the El Dorado vein system.
Magellan concluded the agreement with Ingenieros Mineros, S.A. de C.V., the owner of the El Dorado mining concession giving the Company the right to acquire the concession by making staged six-monthly option payments over two years towards an end purchase price of $800,000 (plus 16% IVA). No royalties are payable. Magellan has the right to begin production during the term of the agreement. The Company has made the initial option payment of $50,000 (plus 16% IVA). In addition, Magellan has agreed with a TSX.V-listed company to purchase a comprehensive El Dorado data package including diamond drill core and technical information for a price of $120,000, payable in cash and Magellan common stock.
Conflicts of Interests
Athena Silver Corporation is a company under common control. Mr. Power is a director and is also a director and CEO of Athena. Mr. Power and Mr. Gibbs are significant investors in both Magellan and Athena.
Silver Saddle Resources, LLC (“Silver Saddle”) is a private company under common control. Mr. Power and Mr. Gibbs are significant investors and managing members of Silver Saddle.
Magellan, Athena and Silver Saddle are exploration stage companies and each is involved in the business of acquisition and exploration of mineral resources.
The existence of common ownership and common management could result in significantly different operating results or financial position from those that could have resulted had Magellan, Athena and Silver Saddle been autonomous. In addition, the common ownership could result in significant conflicts of interest both in terms of the allocation of working capital as well as under the doctrine of corporate opportunity, inasmuch as all three entities are engaged in mineral exploration in the United States. Messrs. Power and Gibbs have not adopted any policy or guidelines to mitigate the potential adverse effects of their conflicting interests between and among, Magellan, Athena and Silver Saddle.
Investors in Magellan should be cognizant that the interests of Magellan may, in the future, be in conflict with the other activities of Magellan’s control persons.
No Proven or Probable Mineral Reserves/Exploration Stage Company
We are considered an exploration stage company under SEC criteria since we have not demonstrated the existence of proven or probable mineral reserves at any of our properties. In Industry Guide 7, the SEC defines a “reserve” as that part of a mineral deposit which could be economically and legally extracted or produced at the time of the reserve determination. Proven or probable mineral reserves are those reserves for which (a) quantity is computed and (b) the sites for inspection, sampling, and measurement are spaced so closely that the geologic character is defined and size, shape and depth of mineral content can be established (proven) or the sites are farther apart or are otherwise less adequately spaced but high enough to assume continuity between observation points (probable). Mineral Reserves cannot be considered proven or probable unless and until they are supported by a feasibility study, indicating that the mineral reserves have had the requisite geologic, technical and economic work performed and are economically and legally extractable.
We have not completed a feasibility study with regard to all or a portion of any of our properties to date. Any mineralized material discovered or extracted by us should not be considered proven or probable mineral reserves. As of December 31, 2018, none of our mineralized material met the definition of proven or probable mineral reserves. We expect to remain an exploration stage company for the foreseeable future, even though we were extracting and processing mineralized material. We will not exit the exploration stage until such time, if ever, that we demonstrate the existence of proven or probable mineral reserves that meet the guidelines under SEC Industry Guide 7.
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On October 31, 2018, the SEC adopted final rules modernizing disclosure requirements for companies with material mining operations (excluding oil and gas). The rules will implement extensive changes to the existing disclosure regime and are intended to align US disclosure requirements more closely with current industry and global regulatory practices and standards, specifically the Committee for Mineral Reserves International Reporting Standards (“CRIRSCO”). The rules have a two year phase-in period. Companies are not required to begin to comply with the rules until their first fiscal year beginning on or after January 1, 2021.
Unpatented Mining Claims: The Mining Law of 1872
Except for the Arizona State Mineral Lease and patented claims held within the Silver District Claims, our mineral rights consist of leases covering "unpatented" mining claims created and maintained in accordance with the U.S. General Mining Law of 1872, or the “General Mining Law.” Unpatented mining claims are unique U.S. property interests, and are generally considered to be subject to greater title risk than other real property interests because the validity of unpatented mining claims is often uncertain. The validity of an unpatented mining claim, in terms of both its location and its maintenance, is dependent on strict compliance with a complex body of federal and state statutory and decisional law that supplement the General Mining Law. Also, unpatented mining claims and related rights, including rights to use the surface, are subject to possible challenges by third parties or contests by the federal government. In addition, there are few public records that definitively control the issues of validity and ownership of unpatented mining claims. We have not filed a patent application for any of our unpatented mining claims that are located on federal public lands in the United States and, under possible future legislation to change the General Mining Law, patents may be difficult to obtain.
Our exploration, development and mining rights relate to patented and unpatented mining claims covering federal and State lands in Arizona and California. Most of our patented and unpatented claims are located in the Silver District in Arizona.
Location of mining claims under the General Mining Law, is a self-initiation system under which a person physically stakes an unpatented mining claim on public land that is open to location, posts a location notice and monuments the boundaries of the claim in compliance with federal laws and regulations and with state location laws, and files notice of that location in the county records and with the Bureau of Land Management (“BLM”). Mining claims can be located on land as to which the surface was patented into private ownership under the Stockraising Homestead Act of 1916, 43 U.S.C. §299, but the mining claimant cannot injure, damage or destroy the surface owner's permanent improvements and must pay for damage to crops caused by prospecting. Discovery of a valuable mineral deposit, as defined under federal law, is essential to the validity of an unpatented mining claim and is required on each mining claim individually. The location is made as a lode claim for mineral deposits found as veins or rock in place, or as a placer claim for other deposits. While the maximum size and shape of lode claims and placer claims are established by statute, there are no limits on the number of claims one person may locate or own. The General Mining Law also contains provision for acquiring five-acre claims of non-mineral land for mill site purposes. A mining operation typically is comprised of many mining claims.
The holder of a valid unpatented mining claim has possessory title to the land covered thereby, which gives the claimant exclusive possession of the surface for mining purposes and the right to mine and remove minerals from the claim. Legal title to land encompassed by an unpatented mining claim remains in the United States, and the government can contest the validity of a mining claim. The General Mining Law requires the performance of annual assessment work for each claim, and subsequent to enactment of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, 43 U.S.C. §1201 et seq., mining claims are invalidated if evidence of assessment work is not timely filed with BLM. However, in 1993 Congress enacted a provision requiring payment of $140 per year (now $155 per year) claim maintenance fee in lieu of performing assessment work, subject to an exception for small miners having less than 10 claims. No royalty is paid to the United States with respect to minerals mined and sold from a mining claim The General Mining Law provides a procedure for a qualified claimant to obtain a mineral patent (i.e., fee simple title to the mining claim) under certain conditions. It has become much more difficult in recent years to obtain a patent. Beginning in 1994, Congress imposed a funding moratorium on the processing of mineral patent applications which had not reached a designated stage in the patent process at the time the moratorium went into effect. Additionally, Congress has considered several bills in recent years to repeal the General Mining Law or to amend it to provide for the payment of royalties to the United States and to eliminate or substantially limit the patent provisions of the law.
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Mining claims are conveyed by deed, or leased by the claimant to the party seeking to develop the property. Such a deed or lease (or memorandum of it) needs to be recorded in the real property records of the county where the property is located, and evidence of such transfer needs to be filed with BLM. It is not unusual for the grantor or lessor to reserve a royalty, which as to precious metals often is expressed as a percentage of net smelter returns.
Patented Mining Claims
Patented mining claims, such as the ones located in our Silver District Project, are mining claims on federal lands that are held in fee simple by the owner. No maintenance fees or royalties are payable to the BLM; however lease payments and royalties with third parties are applicable on some of these claims.
Our Properties
Our primary focus during the next twelve months, and depending on available resources, will be to acquire, explore, and if warranted and feasible, permit and develop our mineral properties.
We have two material properties, namely the Silver District Project in southwest Arizona and the SDA Mill in Nayarit State, Mexico. We also recently acquired rights to explore the El Dorado prospect in Nayarit State, Mexico, which is in proximity to the SDA Mill. We currently intend to engage in exploration activities on the Silver District Project and, if commercially recoverable deposits are found, to conduct mineral development activities. We intend to assess and acquire mineral properties in the region of the SDA Mill with the objective of sourcing ore for processing at the mill. To date, we have only begun preliminary exploration work.
Silver District Project, La Paz Co., Arizona
The following map illustrates the location of our Silver District Project:
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Silver District, La Paz County, Arizona
Effective August 28, 2012, Magellan entered into an Option Agreement with Columbus Silver (US) Corporation, a Nevada corporation (“Columbus”), which Option Agreement granted the Company the right to acquire all of Columbus’ interest in its Silver District properties located in La Paz County, Arizona. Magellan paid Columbus an initial $63,200 on signing the Option and an additional $50,000 before December 31, 2012. An amendment was signed in August 2013 extending the payments to exercise the option.
During February 2014 and January 2013, we paid the final two payments of $80,000 and $30,000, respectively, towards the purchase of the James Blaine-patented claim purchase obligation entered into between Columbus and a third party. We also paid all of the costs to maintain all of the claims and leases in 2013 - 2017.
Effective September 29, 2014, we entered into a Purchase Agreement with Columbus to purchase the patented and unpatented mining claims that had been covered by the Option Agreement. The Purchase Agreement superseded the Option Agreement and conveyed the Silver District Claims to the Company. In consideration of the Silver District Claims, we made a one-time payment to Columbus in the amount of $100,000. Following our purchase of the Silver District Claims, we formed a new wholly-owned subsidiary “Gulf + Western Industries, Inc.” (“Gulf + Western”) and transferred our interest in the Silver District Claims to Gulf + Western.
The Silver District project area consists of 87 unpatented lode mining claims, 6 patented lode claims, an Arizona State Exploration Permit of 334.85 acres and 23 unpatented mill site claims, totaling over 2,000 acres. The project is located approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of Yuma in southwest Arizona.
2014 Drilling Program
In May 2014, we completed the drilling of three holes at our Silver District Project. The three holes were the initial holes of a permitted 12-hole exploratory program on Magellan’s unpatented claims near the Papago and Red Cloud Mines. The drilling program was permitted and bonded with the BLM and State of Arizona. Following the drilling program, our bond with the BLM in the amount of $21,457 was refunded.
Two of the three holes drilled (core holes PA-01 / 336 total depth & PA-02 / 380 total depth) were designed to test the Papago target, and one hole (RC-01/ 244 total depth) was directed at the Red Cloud target. Our consulting geologist selected 52 samples that were delivered to ALS Labs in Reno, NV for analysis.
The highlights of the assay results include the following:
· | Excellent comparison of our core hole PA-01 with historic RC hole S242P. Magellan PA-01 intercept of 90 feet grading 6.05 OPT Ag, (including 10 feet of 17.06 OPT Ag), compared very favorably with the historic result of 90 feet grading 5.78 OPT Ag (including 10 feet averaging 14.60 OPT Ag). | |
· | Previously unreported significant zinc and lead assays from the mineralization in PA-01 4.71% Zn and 1.56% Pb over 90 feet, including 10 feet averaging 8.35% Zn and 4.02% Pb. | |
· | PA-01 intercepted a previously unknown vein structure, about 15 feet wide and approximately 50 feet below the known mineralized structure, that includes 3 feet grading 3.64% Zn, 0.62% Pb and 0.15 OPT Ag. The significance of this occurrence relative to the Papago resource area is unknown. | |
· | PA-02 was drilled 250 feet east of PA-01 to test for the down plunge extension of that intercept, but did not encounter any mineralization due to offset by a late fault. | |
· | RC-01 was drilled just north of the Red Cloud open pit to intersect the extension of the Red Cloud vein beneath the Red Cloud Fault. Although the vein was known to be partly cut off by that fault, the hole intersected over 10 feet of the footwall of the vein, which has never been mined, including five feet grading 3.2% Pb, 7.47% Zn, 0.6 OPT Ag and Trace Au. The granodiorite in the footwall of the vein was extensively altered with stockwork veins for over 50 feet, containing anomalous levels of Pb, Zn, Ag and Au. |
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The 2014 drill results will be incorporated into the existing historic drill database for use in planning additional drilling. Geologic evaluation of the entire district continues as Magellan develops additional drill targets in and around the multiple satellite deposits in the Silver District land package.
2015 Sampling Program
In 2015 the Company carried out a program of rock chip surface sampling. The samples were collected across seven of fourteen known deposits. Results were successful in validating the occurrence of silver values up to 13.0 ounces per ton and fluorspar values up to 25.7% over significant widths. Silver District deposits are localized along three major vein systems having a collective strike length of eight miles. Previous shallow drilling that partially tested these vein systems identified mineralized material containing silver and fluorite, with additional barite and lead-zinc mineralization.
The sample results are consistent with historical drilling results. In addition, with respect to any future mining development, ICP 33-element analysis returned low values for environmentally undesirable elements such as mercury, arsenic and uranium.
Following are highlights of sample results:
Clip (15 ft rock chip across vein): | 13.0 opt Ag; 5.2% Fluorspar (CaF2); 6.9% Barite (BaSO4) | ||
Geronimo (12 ft rock chip across vein): | 10.5 opt Ag; 5.7% Fluorspar; 1.5% Pb | ||
MP (20 ft rock chip across vein): | 5.3 opt Ag | ||
Red Cloud (30 ft rock chip across vein): | 4.1 opt Ag; 25.7% Fluorspar; 2.1% Zn | ||
Pacific (20 ft rock chip across vein): | 1.0 opt Ag; 20.9% Fluorspar; 2.2% Pb; 3.8%Zn |
For locations of the deposits from which the samples were collected, refer to Magellan’s management presentation available on the Company’s website, www.magellangoldcorp.com.
Geochemical analyses were performed by ALS Minerals in Reno, NV and Vancouver, B.C. Silver analysis was by four acid digestion, HCl leach and atomic absorption finish. Fluorine analysis was by Na2O2 fusion, citric acid leach and ion selective electrode. Barium analysis was by fusion XRF. Lead and zinc analyses were by four acid digestion with ICP-AES finish. All samples were analyzed as part of a 33 element package by four acid digestion and ICP-AES finish. Gold analysis was by fire assay with atomic absorption finish.
2016 - 2017 Exploration Program
During 2016 and 2017 we conducted exploration in the vicinity of the Red Cloud Mine, one of two mines in the district that produced significant quantities of silver-lead ores during the ten-year period 1883-1893. Mineralization in the Red Cloud area is controlled by veins localized along fault structures. The vein targets, which in most places are poorly exposed, occur along a prospective fault zone passing through the Red Cloud Mine. The zone and its possible continuation extends 1,000 meters to the north-northwest of the mine, and to the south-southeast continues for over 800 meters towards the Papago Prospect, where drilling in 2014 returned significant results.
Our exploration program in 2016 and 2017 consisted of a ground magnetic survey and a geochemical orientation survey. The work had several objectives, including gaining a better understanding of the geology and in particular the locations of major fault structures, testing the usefulness of geochemical techniques for locating buried mineralization, and delineating drill targets.
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Zonge International performed a GPS-based 2 kilometer x 1 kilometer ground magnetic survey during May 2016. Ground magnetic/GPS data were acquired on 20 lines oriented N70 degrees East and spaced approximately 100 meters apart, for a total distance of 18 line-kilometers of data acquisition. Total-field magnetic measurements and GPS positions were acquired at 1-second intervals, which corresponds to a down-line station spacing of about 1 meter.
Red Cloud Magnetic Survey Interpretation, Showing Rock Domains, Fault Structures, Mines and Prospects and Exploration Target Zones
The magnetic results suggest there are four main magnetic domains in the survey area: 1) relatively low susceptibility metamorphic and granitic basement rocks that occupy the western edge and southeast corner of the survey; 2) higher susceptibility volcanic rocks that bound the Red Cloud in the central eastern part of the survey; 3) low to very low susceptibility volcanic rocks in the northeast corner of the survey that are essentially “non-magnetic or transparent” and reflect the rocks beneath them (probably older volcanic rocks); 4) high to very high susceptibility rocks in the extreme northwest corner of the survey and possibly in the extreme northeast corner.
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Structurally, the Red Cloud Fault and probable extensions is evident for about 800 or more meters both north-northwest and south-southeast of the Red Cloud Mine. To the south-southeast it apparently extends toward Papago and the Pacific Patent. It may be cut off or offset on the north end by a significant east-west fault that also separates the two volcanic units. To the south, the andesitic volcanic rocks (and possibly the southern end of the Red Cloud Fault) are cut off by a northeast trending late fault that is obscured by valley fill sediments. Some northwest and west-northwest textures and breaks within the volcanic units are also highlighted. Structural complexity is evident around the Papago drilling area. Late post-mineral faults that juxtapose rocks of high susceptibility with those of low susceptibility are defined clearly, even at 100-meter line spacing.
In summary, the magnetic survey has helped to define major lithologic domains. It also has been especially useful in showing the location of major faults, some of which served as conduits for mineralization and some of which are post-mineral. Several locations along the major Red Cloud fault where poorly exposed constitute prospective exploration targets.
In 2016 and 2017, we performed a geochemical orientation survey over the Red Cloud ore body in an attempt to detect known deep mineralization through overlying barren volcanic rocks. This technique could be useful in identifying additional ore bodies beneath post-mineral cover. In the Silver District, all the known ore bodies crop out at surface. Exploration for extensions of known ore bodies and potentially blind ore bodies must rely on indirect methods such as geochemistry or geophysics.
Twenty-three soil samples were collected at 15-meter intervals along two parallel lines approximately 100 meters apart in the hanging wall of the Red Cloud Vein. The samples were prepared for analysis by MEG, Inc. of Reno, Nevada. A split of all 23 samples were analyzed for mercury (Hg) by MEG using their proprietary GAS’m method. A second split of all 23 samples was submitted to ALS in Reno for Ionic Leach analysis for a 60-element suite of metals including silver, lead, zinc, molybdenum, gold and mercury, which are the primary and main secondary metals found in Red Cloud ore. Both of these methods measure metal ions that are loosely attached to the surfaces of clay minerals in the soil, having been mobilized from a deep mineralized source, traveled upward through barren overlying rock and been re-deposited on the clay minerals.
The orientation survey produced encouraging results. Samples collected from directly above the known, dipping ore body contain levels of silver, lead, molybdenum, zinc, mercury and gold that are ten to one hundred times background. Mercury analyses from the GAS’m survey agreed with mercury analyses from the Ionic Leach method. Those samples collected closest to the outcropping vein had the highest values, diminishing with distance by a factor of 10 as the dipping vein passed below the water table at a vertical depth of almost 400 feet. The mobilization process for the metals is only effective above the water table in oxidizing conditions, so this fall-off in values was expected.
The orientation survey demonstrates that primary metals from the Red Cloud ore body can be detected through tens to hundreds of feet of barren overlying material as long as the mineralized source is above the water table. Expanding the sample grid along strike to the north and south is warranted to search for extensions of the Red Cloud vein and to explore for other deposits. The ALS Ionic Leach process is the best analytical tool for an expanded survey, as it adequately detects the principal metals (including mercury) from the known ore bodies.
Based on the initial encouraging results obtained from the orientation survey, in 2017 we conducted an additional program of soil sampling along strike to the north and south of the Red Cloud ore body. Samples were collected on a grid with lines oriented across strike of the Red Cloud vein.
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Silver District Claim Map
Silver District Patented Mining Claims
RED CLOUD Patented Mining Claim – MS 749; Parcel #301-34-003 La Paz Co. Assessor
(Subject to lease agreement)
JAMES G. BLAINE Patented Mining Claim – MS 1258-A Parcel #301-31-001 La Paz Co. Assessor
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BLACK ROCK Patented Mining Claim – MS 291 Parcel #301-34-002 La Paz Co. Assessor
PACIFIC Patented Mining Claim – MS 292 Parcel #301-34-002 La Paz Co. Assessor
SILVER GLANCE Patented Mining Claim – MS 246 Parcel #301-34-001 La Paz Co. Assessor
(Subject to lease agreement; title to be perfected)
MENDIVIL Patented Mining Claim – MS 279 Parcel #301-33-002 La Paz Co. Assessor
(Subject to lease agreement; title to be perfected)
Arizona State Exploration Permit
Arizona State Exploration Permit #08-118475 - GRANTED December 2, 2015; 334.85 acres+/-
Silver District Unpatented Mining Claims
Plata No. 1(3rd am.) | AMC# 44189 (subject to lease agreement) |
Plata No. 2(2nd am.) | AMC# 44190 (subject to lease agreement) |
POP #1 (2dAm.) | AMC# 43990 |
POP #2 (2d Am.) | AMC# 43991 |
POP #3 (2d Am) | AMC# 43992 |
POP #4 (2d Am) | AMC# 43993 |
POP #5 (2d Am) | AMC# 43994 |
POP #6 (2d Am) | AMC# 43995 |
POP #7 (2d Am) | AMC# 43996 |
POP #8 (2d Am) | AMC# 43997 |
POP #9 (2d Am) | AMC# 43998 |
POP #10 (2d Am) | AMC# 43999 |
POP #11 (2d Am) | AMC# 44000 |
POP #13 (2dAm) | AMC# 44002 |
POP #14 (2dAm) | AMC# 44003 |
POP #15 (2dAm) | AMC# 44004 |
POP #16 (2dAm) | AMC# 44005 |
POP #17 (Am) | AMC# 44006 |
POP #19 (Am) | AMC# 44008 |
POP #21 (Am) | AMC# 44010 |
POP #22 (Am) | AMC# 44011 |
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POP #24 (2d Am | AMC# 44013 |
POP #25 (2d Am | AMC# 44014 |
POP #26 (2d Am | AMC# 44015 |
POP #27 (2d Am | AMC# 44016 |
POP #28 (2d Am | AMC# 44017 |
POP #29 (2d Am | AMC# 44018 |
POP #30 (Am) | AMC# 44019 |
POP #31 (Am) | AMC# 44020 |
POP #32 (Am) | AMC# 44021 |
POP #37 (2d Am) | AMC# 44026 |
POP #38 (2d Am) | AMC# 44027 |
POP #43 (Am) | AMC# 44032 |
POP #50 – POP #51 | AMC# 207723-207724 |
POP #53 – POP #57 | AMC# 207725-207729 |
POP #62 | AMC# 207734 |
RUF #1 | AMC # 129269 |
RUF #2 | AMC # 129270 |
RUF #5 | AMC # 129273 |
RUF #9 | AMC # 129277 |
RUF #10 | AMC# 129278 |
RUF #12 | AMC# 129280 |
RUF #13 | AMC# 129281 |
RUF #14 | AMC# 129282 |
RUF #15 | AMC# 129283 |
RUF #17 | AMC# 129285 |
RUF #18 | AMC# 129286 |
RUF #22 | AMC# 129290 |
RUF #23 | AMC# 129291 |
RUF #24 | AMC# 129292 |
MIL #1 | AMC # 129261 |
MIL #2 | AMC# 129262 |
MIL #3 | AMC# 129263 |
MIL #4 | AMC# 129264 |
MIL #5 | AMC# 129265 |
MIL #6 | AMC# 129266 |
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G + W #2 | AMC # 129255 |
G + W #3 | AMC # 129256 |
G + W #4 | AMC # 129257 |
PL-1 – PL-2 | AMC # 366944-366945 |
Arch | AMC # 366937 |
RU 1 – RU 3 | AMC # 366947-366949 |
CH-1 – CH-6 | AMC # 366938-366943 |
POP 39 | AMC # 366946 |
A-1 | AMC # 369924 |
RIHO | AMC # 369925 |
MAX 13-26 | AMC # 386562-386575 |
Ruth #1 Amended | AMC # 42216 |
Ruth #3 Amended | AMC# 44218 |
Ruth #5 Amended | AMC# 44220 |
Ruth #7 Amended | AMC# 44222 |
Plata No. 3 Amended | AMC# 44191 |
Plata No. 5 Amended | AMC# 44193 |
Plata No. 6 Amended | AMC# 44194 |
Plata No.10 Amended | AMC# 44195 |
Plata No.11 Amended | AMC# 44196 |
Plata No.12 Amended | AMC# 44197 |
Plata No.14 | AMC# 44199 |
Plata No.15 Amended | AMC# 44200 |
Chuck No.5 | AMC# 44208 |
Chuck No.7 | AMC# 44210 |
Chuck No.9 | AMC# 44212 |
Staked by Magellan | |
SD 30 | AMC424398 |
SD 37 | AMC424404 |
Certain of the Silver District Claims are subject to third party lease and/or net smelter royalties of varying percentages.
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SDA Mill, Nayarit, Mexico
On March 3, 2017, Magellan acquired a 150-day option to purchase the SDA Mill from Rose Petroleum plc and its wholly-owned subsidiary Minerales Vane S,A. de C.V. (“Rose”) for consideration of $1.0 million in cash and $500,000 in restricted common stock of Magellan. The Company paid an initial $50,000 option fee on March 3, 2017, and on June 1, 2017 paid an additional $100,000 option fee that also applied to the purchase price upon closing.
On July 31, 2017, Magellan and Rose agreed to extend the option period. Under terms of the extension, Magellan had the obligation by August 15, 2017, to deliver executed irrevocable bridge loan commitments representing not less than $900,000 in cash required to fund the transaction. Magellan delivered the loan commitments as required. Magellan also agreed to reimburse Rose for certain mill employee and maintenance costs for the months of August and September 2017. Magellan reimbursed Rose approximately $50,000 for the two months, as required under terms of the extension.
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On September 9, 2017, Magellan and Rose executed a definitive and binding stock purchase agreement (“SPA”) pursuant to which Magellan would acquire 100% interest in Rose's wholly-owned Mexican subsidiary that owned the SDA Mill. The SPA provided that the purchase price for the SDA Mill would be US $1.5 million, consisting of $1.0 million in cash (of which $100,000 had been paid in the form of an option extension payment on June 1, 2017) and $500,000 in shares of Magellan’s restricted common stock. The SPA provided that closing of the transaction would be subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, including Rose completing the split-off of its Mexican subsidiary that owned the SDA Mill and Rose obtaining the approval of its shareholders.
On November 30, 2017, as disclosed above, the transaction closed for the agreed upon price of approximately US$1.5 million, consisting of $1,000,000 in cash, including the $100,000 option extension payment, and $500,000 in restricted common stock of Magellan. Based upon the volume weighted average price per share of Magellan Gold stock for the 30 calendar days preceding the closing date, 284,017 shares of stock were issued in connection with the transaction.
The total purchase price for the SDA Mill was determined to be $1,476,025 which consisted of $850,000 cash, a $50,000 promissory note, the $50,000 non-refundable option payment, the $100,000 previously paid for the option-to-purchase extension, and 284,017 shares of common stock (the “Shares”) with a fair value of $426,025. The note was non-interest bearing and has been paid in full. The Shares will be held in escrow for a period of 12 months and the Company has the option to repurchase the Shares from Rose for the sum of $500,000 in the first six months and $550,000 in months 7 to 12. This repurchase option expired unexercised.
The SDA Mill is a fully operational flotation plant that also includes a precious metals leach circuit and associated assets, licenses and agreements. The mill has the capacity to process ore at a rate of up to 200 tons per day. The mill has a ten-year operating history. Historically its operation has been based on sales of flotation concentrates to smelters, and payment for precious metals content. Until the month of November 2017 when the Company conducted limited toll milling operations, milling activity was on hold pending the completion of the purchase transaction.
Magellan acquired no ore reserves in connection with the SDA Mill purchase. Resumption of production will depend on the Company’s success in identifying and acquiring new sources of ore, for which there is no assurance.
Recent Developments with the SDA Mill
The Company has reached preliminary agreement with a private company supplier of mineralized material to toll treat the material at the Company’s SDA Mill. The supplier will source the mineralized material and deliver it to the mill. Test processing of a bulk sample of approximately 600 tons was completed in February 2019. While the results of the test were encouraging, the supplier has experienced challenges in providing mineralized ore on a consistent basis. The Company intends to identify alternative suppliers for the mill.
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El Dorado
EL DORADO GOLD-SILVER PROJECT, NAYARIT STATE, MEXICO
In August, 2018, the Company entered into an agreement giving it the right to acquire the El Dorado Gold-Silver Property, a 50 hectare mining concession located near the village of Las Minitas, which lies 50 kilometers south of Magellan’s SDA Flotation Plant at Acaponeta, Nayarit State. Magellan intends to advance El Dorado towards production as a matter of priority. The Company has initiated permitting and is in the process of selecting an underground mining contractor. The project has excellent road and rail infrastructure, and the Company plans to truck the mineralized material from El Dorado to the SDA Plant for processing. El Dorado is situated within a district of epithermal vein systems from which historic mining produced high grades.
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Commencement of mining will depend on a number of preconditions, the most important of which include obtaining environmental and blasting permits, selecting and mobilizing a mining contractor and procuring financing. An access and land use agreement with the local ejido already is in place. Once development begins, mineralized material will be accessible with a minimal amount of underground development. Mineralized material will be sourced initially from the shallow, upper portions of the mineralized veins.
Drilling on the El Dorado vein system was conducted by a TSX.V-listed company in 2010-2011 and comprised 28 diamond core holes totaling 4,950 meters. Two veins appear to offer particular promise for mining, namely the Hundido and Intermedia veins. These veins lie adjacent to and along strike from the old Hundido Mine, which from 1900-1927 produced an estimated 50,000 tonnes of high-grade gold-silver ore. The veins are steeply-dipping, highly silicified structures cutting volcanic rocks. Polygonal resource calculations for the two veins, based on intersections in 10 core holes and after applying a 25% tonnage deduction for dilution and recovery factors, yielded respectively 89,000 tonnes grading 7.01 g/t gold equivalent (Au+Ag) over a true width of 2.3 meters (Hundido Vein); and 91,000 tonnes grading 15.17 g/t gold equivalent (Au+Ag) over a true width of 8.3 meters (Intermedia Vein). These mineralized materials do not constitute ore reserves under SEC Industry Guide 7. The mineralization extends from near surface to a drilled depth of 150 meters and is open at greater depth.
The El Dorado vein system can be traced on the surface for a distance greater than three kilometers and exhibits structural complexity with numerous conjugate vein splits both in the hangingwall and footwall. This complex structure hosts multiple mineralized zones including high-grade veins potentially minable underground, and lower-grade open-pittable stockwork zones that are observed to extend over tens of meters in width in both the hangingwall and footwall of the El Dorado vein system.
Magellan concluded the agreement with Ingenieros Mineros, S.A. de C.V., the owner of the El Dorado mining concession giving the Company the right to acquire the concession by making staged six-monthly option payments over two years towards an end purchase price of $800,000 (plus 16% IVA). No royalties are payable. Magellan has the right to begin production during the term of the agreement. The Company has made the initial option payment of $50,000 (plus 16% IVA). The Company is currently negotiating an extension to the payment schedule. In addition, Magellan has agreed with a TSX.V-listed company to purchase a comprehensive El Dorado data package including diamond drill core and technical information for a price of $120,000, payable in cash and Magellan common stock.
LOCATION, HISTORY AND GEOLOGY OF OUR PROPERTIES
Silver District
The property covers the heart of the historic Silver District in La Paz County, approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of Yuma in southwest Arizona. This property is currently without known reserves and our proposed program is exploratory in nature.
Location, Access and Composition
The Silver District is located approximately 50 miles by road north of Yuma, Arizona on the southeast flank of the Trigo Mountains. Access to the property via a 4WD vehicle from Yuma is seasonally good, with 34 miles of paved or well-maintained gravel road and another 14 miles of seasonally maintained unimproved roads to the Red Cloud Mine, in the southwestern corner of the district.
The Silver District Project consists of 87 unpatented lode mining claims, 6 patented lode claims, an Arizona State Exploration Permit of 334.85 acres and 23 unpatented mill site claims, totaling over 2,000 acres in La Paz County, Arizona.
Certain of the underlying claims are subject to third party lease and or purchase obligations and net smelter royalties of varying percentages.
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History
The Silver District was discovered in 1862 and supported small but significant silver-lead production, largely from underground operations at the Red Cloud and Clip (Blaine patented claim) mines, during the ten year period from 1883 to 1893. Recorded production is estimated at 1.56 million ounces silver and 2.33 million pounds lead. There have been occasional small scale development activities since that time and in recent years the area has been a site for collection of high value, specimen wulfenite crystals.
Modern exploration, principally shallow drilling, metallurgical test work and a number of scoping studies to evaluate development of the silver and fluorspar deposits, was carried out intermittently from 1973 through 1992, initially by Gulf + Western Industries (no relation to our recently-formed subsidiary) through its New Jersey Zinc subsidiary, and followed by Orbex Resources and its successor companies, Silver Glance Resources and Silverspar Minerals. A total of 465 holes for an aggregate length of 62,866 feet were drilled during this period. The project has been largely inactive since the early 1990’s.
Columbus Silver (US) Corporation acquired the project in 2004 and focused its efforts on re-consolidation of the property position, organization and compilation of technical records and limited field mapping and sampling.
Power and Water
There are no modern mine developments or equipment on the property. The Red Cloud Mine patented mining claim has a covered shop and full time watchman with living facilities. It also has a water well and a small diesel generator. There is no commercial water or power available at the site and these would have to be developed with any mining development.
Geology
The Silver District deposits consist of variable silver and lead-zinc mineralization in massive quartz-calcite-fluorspar-barite veins and breccia zones that occur within three major north-northwest trending vein systems having a collective strike length of about eight miles. The veins cut Tertiary volcanic and volcaniclastic rock formations, which overly an older, possibly Pre-Cambrian crystalline to metamorphic basement complex. Potential ore-grade silver (lead-zinc), fluorspar and barite deposits occur as pod-like bodies within all three vein systems. Various historic resource estimates, all pre-dating NI 43-101 reporting standards, have been carried out by past operators in the District.
Exploration Plans
Subject to available funding, the following outlines our exploration plans for the Silver District.
Past explorers identified a number of outcropping ore bodies (some of which saw production in the late 19th and early 20th centuries) and with shallow drilling defined new and larger deposits to open-pit depths. These known occurrences are the exposed portions of three long, through-going district wide fault trends. Potential for the discovery of additional mineralization is excellent at depth below known ore bodies and along the fault trends between known ore bodies. The best method for making new discoveries is by drilling at depth below known ore bodies. Geology, geophysics and geochemistry could prove useful in defining blind targets in non-outcropping areas. We chose the known mineralization at the historic Red Cloud and Papago mines as our initial exploration targets in the exploration drilling carried out in 2014 and for our exploration program in 2016.
Geological mapping, with rock sampling and assaying, will help guide drilling and geophysical surveying over the next twelve months. Geophysical geochemical test surveys to detect sulfide mineralization below known resources at Red Cloud and Papago, if successful, will be used to delineate drill targets under other historic resources and along the unexplored sections of the major mineralized structures.
Subject to securing the necessary funding, we have budgeted $500,000 for exploration work over the next 12 to 24 months, comprising $100,000 for geology, geochemistry and computer modeling, $50,000 for geophysical orientation surveys, and $350,000 for diamond drilling and assaying of approximately 6,000 feet of core.
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We anticipate the exploration program will be supervised by Douglas R Bowden, a consulting geologist based in Sparks, Nevada. Mr. Bowden has over 35 years of experience in mining exploration in the United States, Canada and Mexico and is a licensed geologist in the State of Utah.
SDA Mill
Location and Access
The SDA Mill (“SDA”) is located in the town of San Dieguito de Arriba, within the municipality of Acaponeta, in the State of Nayarit, Mexico. It is approximately 15 km east of Acaponeta and easily accessible by paved road. The town, with a population of approximately 300 inhabitants, lies at an elevation of 38 meters asl and is within the ejido of the same name. Acaponeta is about 150 km southeast from Mazatlan, a 1.5 hours drive via a major paved highway. Mazatlan is served by direct flights from several cities in the US and Canada.
The SDA plant and tailings area includes approximately 9 hectares (21.6 acres) of land leased from the local ejido and an individual. The largest lease of 6 hectares (14.4 acres), on which the plant is located, was renewed in 2016 and includes the supply of plant make-up water. The facility is fully permitted and the Operating License is valid until 2026.
Ore transport, operating supplies and concentrate shipments are by truck. The majority of employees live in the adjacent town of San Dieguito de Arriba and either walk or bicycle to work.
History
The SDA plant was built and began operating in 2007 by Minerales Vane S.A. de C.V. (“Vane”), and operated more or less continuously until 2017. The plant was originally designed to process ore from Vane’s El Diablito mine. Vane developed and exploited this mine as well as other mines through joint ventures until mining ceased in October 2015 due to lack of ore.
The mill continued to operate until April 2017, processing ore from various operators in the region on a toll basis. The toll ores were tested prior to processing to estimate recoveries and concentrate grades. Typical reported recoveries were in the range 85-92% for gold and 72-77% for silver. The stated objective of SDA was to produce a bulk gold-silver concentrate of the highest grade possible without detrimental impurities.
The SDA plant generally has been operated at the rate of 100 mtpd over the past ten years.
An agitated leach system and precious metals recovery plant (Merrill – Crowe) was installed and operated briefly processing concentrates. The leach system is not currently being operated.
Water and Power
Water is pumped from the Rio Acaponeta, 2.4 km distant to the west using a company owned portable pump and 4-inch piping. The fresh water make-up requirement is estimated at 4-5 m3 per hour. This is equivalent to approximately 1 tonne of fresh water per tonne of ore processed. The plant has two storage tanks totaling approximately 150 m3 of storage.
Power is supplied by an overland power line from the grid by Comision Federal de Electricidad (“CFE”). Rates are set by the CFE. Plant power is 440V with two transformers, one for the plant and a smaller unit for the laboratory.
Workforce
When fully operational the SDA Mill is operated with a total of 36 employees, which includes 3 in administration (I GM and 2 Engineers), 4 in the laboratory and 29 operators. The technical support for metallurgy is provided through an external consultant. Overall the workforce is well trained to maintain current operating status, and open to process improvement given external support. Turnover is nil with the advantage of the local workforce, and community relations are in good standing.
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Process Plant
The main sections of the SDA process plant include:
· | Crushing – two stage crushing in closed circuit – capacity 25 mtph |
· | Grinding – ball mill in closed circuit with cyclone classifier – capacity 150 mtpd |
· | Flotation – including conditioner tank, roughers and cleaners – capacity + 150 mtpd |
· | Concentrate vats, drying and load out area |
· | Tailings facility – contains 250,000 mt – additional capacity 150,000 mt |
· | Analytical laboratory |
· | Office, warehouse and small maintenance shop |
· | Leaching – Merrill Crowe installation – not operating – capacity 300 mtpd concentrate leaching |
The plant historically has operated at 100 mtpd but has the capacity to operate at 150 mtpd or greater without additional capital expenditure.
Exploration Plans
Magellan acquired no ore reserves in connection with the SDA Mill purchase. Resumption of production will depend on the Company’s success in obtaining new sources of ore, for which there is no assurance.
The Company’s strategy is to acquire new sources of ore, to resume mining and processing operations, and to build production and increase cash flow. A key objective will be to secure high-grade feed sources. The mill lies within the rich Sierra Madre Occidental mineralized belt, which historically has yielded millions of ounces of precious metals and offers multiple high-grade gold and silver epithermal vein opportunities.
Subject to securing the necessary funding, we have budgeted $350,000 for exploration work over the next 12 months, comprising $100,000 for geologic mapping and geochemical sampling, and $250,000 for diamond drilling and assaying of approximately 2,000 meters of core.
If exploration and/or acquisition is successful in generating projects with potential for production, then additional funding would be required for mine development. The Company’s objective would be to achieve production as a matter of priority.
The exploration program will be supervised by Pierce Carson, the Company’s president, and by well qualified geologists based in Mexico.
EL DORADO
Location and Access
The El Dorado Gold-Silver Project is located in the Pacific Coastal Plain, near the village of Las Minitas, Municipality of Rosamorada, State of Nayarit, within the Mining Agency of Tepic. It lies 50 kilometers south of the Company’s SDA Mill, 70 kilometers north-northwest of Tepic, the state capital, and 180 kilometers southeast of Mazatlan, Sinaloa. The project has excellent road and rail infrastructure.
The El Dorado Mining Concession consists of a 50-hectare concession held under option by the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary Minerales Vane 2 S.A. de C.V. from a Mexican private company, Ingenieros Mineros S.A. de C.V.
NAME OF THE MINING CONCESSION | TITLE N° | HA | VALID UNTIL | ||||||
EL DORADO | 166132 | 50 | March 26, 2030 |
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The principal vein system is the El Dorado epithermal vein trend that strikes N50°E and dips steeply to the NW. It forms a continuous reef outcrop 1.5 kilometers in length. Additional discontinuous outcrops both to the NE and SW indicate a strike length of 3.5 kilometers.
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History
The El Dorado vein system has a history of small-scale mining. In the period 1900-1927 a mineralized zone was mined in the Hundido Mine. A historic longitudinal section of this portion of El Dorado vein indicates that it was mined for gold and silver to a maximum depth of 150 meters from the surface. The workings are largely inaccessible and there are no production records available. Based on the extent of old workings and the size of the stopes shown on the historic longitudinal section approximately 50,000 tons of gold-silver mineralization are estimated to have been extracted from the Hundido Mine.
From 1965 to 1975 Rafael Velasco extracted mineralized material from the El Dorado mine, located 250 meters further NE of the El
Hundido mine, and from 1975 to 1983 American interests mined direct-to-smelter grade material
from the El Dorado mine.
From 1985 to 1990 the company Ingenieros Mineros SA de CV continued operations in the El Dorado Mine in three levels to a depth of 30 meters below the surface and shipped the ore to the "El Venado" processing plant located near Ruiz, Nayarit, for toll treatment to produce a flotation concentrate. Historic metallurgical balance sheets from this plant indicate the grade of the material was on the order of 5 g/t Au and 70 g/t Ag.
In a report dated May 1986 by Compañia Fresnillo, S.A. de C.V., a list of 46 underground samples reported an average grade of 7.88 g/t Au and 55 g/t Ag for the three levels of the El Dorado Mine with vein widths ranging from 1.2 meters to 4.0 meters.
Magellan has not verified available historic data because the underground workings are presently flooded and inaccessible. In due course the Company intends to dewater the underground workings and carry out the work necessary to verify data and define the size and grade of the mineralization.
Drilling Program 2010-2011
Drilling on the El Dorado vein system was conducted by a TSX.V-listed company in 2010-2011 and comprised 28 diamond core holes totaling 4,950 meters. The drilling intersected multiple steeply-dipping silicified mineralized zones extending from near-surface to a drilled depth of 150 meters.
The following longitudinal section shows the drilling pattern along the El Dorado vein in the area of the Hundido and El Dorado mines, and summary drill hole intersection grades and widths.
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The mineralization extends from near surface to a drilled depth of 150 meters and is open at greater depth.
Two veins appear to offer particular promise for mining, namely the Hundido and Intermedia veins. These veins lie adjacent to and along strike from the old Hundido Mine. Polygonal resource calculations for the two veins, based on intersections in 10 core holes are summarized as follows:
MINERALIZATION INDICATED BY DRILLING
Vein |
True Width m |
Tonnes |
Au+Ag Au Equiv g/t |
Hundido | 2.3 | 89,000 | 7.01 |
Intermedia | 8.3 | 91,000 | 15.17 |
Notes: | 1. Polygonal resources based on intersections from 10 holes. |
2. Tonnage reduced by 25% to allow for mining dilution and recovery loss. | |
3. Does not constitute ore reserves under SEC Industry Guide 7. |
Geology
The stratigraphy of the district consists predominantly of a thick andesitic lithic lapilli tuff, with a dacitic crystal tuff marker horizon within the andesitic pile. The andesitic sequence is overlain by a pre-vein rhyolitic pyroclastic sequence, indicating an andesitic/rhyolitic bimodal composition. In the central part of the district a complex of domes and dikes of rhyolitic composition exhibit a NE-SW orientation similar to the vein system. The pre-vein volcanic stratigraphy shows a general tilt of 8°-15° to the east, exposing the deepest portions of the stratigraphy and hydrothermal system in the SW and central parts of the district, and the higher geologic level of the deposit towards the NE where high level silicification and argillization outcrop.
The vein pattern is interpreted to be the result of a right lateral structural regime that developed a N50°E fault system exhibiting
a horizontal component of movement, and a conjugate system of N70°E to E-W faults with dilational and normal movement. The
principal mineralized structure in the district is the El Dorado Vein which can be traced on the surface for a distance greater
than 3 kilometers, and exhibits structural complexity with numerous conjugate vein splits both in the hangingwall and footwall.
A number of prospective exploration targets have been defined along the El Dorado Vein structure related to old mines, anaomalous
geochemical sample results and zones of structural complexity.
Two main stages of vein formation appear to be present consisting of early fine to medium grained crystalline quartz with Pb-Zn-Cu and Ag sulfides (Stage I), and a later Stage II which consists of generally barren coarse-crystalline quartz that is commonly observed cementing breccia fragments of Stage I vein material. In the hangingwall and footwall of the veins it is common to observe quartz stockwork-stringer zones with Pb-Zn-Cu sulfides as well as dissemination of sulfides in permeable zones of coarse-grained tuffs and pyroclastic breccias. In the geologically deeper central part of the El Dorado vein system where the Hundido and El Dorado mineralized zones were mined, quartz with Au-Ag values and base metal sulfides of Stage I are present accompanied by strong propylitization (epidote and chlorite) of the andesitic volcanic, particularly in the footwall portion of El Dorado vein system.
The El Dorado Vein exhibits potential to contain multiple mineralized zones, including higher grade over minable widths for underground mining, or lower-grade open pitable stockwork zones which are observed over tens of meters in width in both the hangingwall and footwall of the El Dorado vein system.
Exploration and Development Plans
Subject to the availability of financing, Magellan intends to advance El Dorado towards production as a matter of priority. The Company has initiated permitting and is in the process of selecting an underground mining contractor. The project has excellent road and rail infrastructure, and the Company plans to truck the mineralized material from El Dorado to the Company’s SDA Plant for processing, a distance of approximately 50 kilometers.
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Commencement of mining will depend on a number of preconditions, the most important of which include obtaining environmental and blasting permits, selecting and mobilizing a mining contractor and procuring financing. An access and land use agreement with the local ejido already is in place. Once development begins, mineralized material will be accessible with a minimal amount of underground development. Mineralized material will be sourced initially from the shallow, upper portions of the mineralized veins.
The Company also has identified and is assessing exploration targets and other acquisition opportunities in the El Dorado district as well as in other districts within trucking distance of the SDA Mill.
Our Exploration Process
Our exploration program is designed to acquire, explore and evaluate exploration properties in an economically efficient manner. We have not at this time identified or delineated any mineral reserves on any of our properties.
Our current focus is primarily on the exploration of our Silver District (Arizona) and exploration opportunities nearby our SDA mill in Nayarit, Mexico, and in particular our El Dorado Gold-Silver Project. We plan to develop a formal sample collection and analysis process in due course; this process will include appropriate quality assurance and quality control procedures.
Subject to our ability to raise the necessary funds, we may acquire additional exploration properties near our existing properties or elsewhere and implement exploration programs that may cover these future properties.
We expect our exploration work on a given property to proceed generally in three phases. Decisions about proceeding to each successive phase will take into consideration the completion of the previous phases and our analysis of the results of those phases.
The first phase is intended to determine whether a prospect warrants further exploration and involves:
· | researching the available geologic literature; |
· | interviewing geologists, mining engineers and others familiar with the prospect sites; |
· | conducting geologic mapping, geophysical testing and geochemical testing; |
· | examining any existing workings, such as trenches, prospect pits, shafts or tunnels; |
· | digging trenches that allow for an examination of surface vein structures as well as for efficient reclamation, re-contouring and re-seeding of disturbed areas; and, |
· | analyzing samples for minerals that are known to have occurred in the test area. |
Subject to obtaining the necessary permits in a timely manner, the first phase can typically be completed on an individual property in several months at a cost of less than $200,000.
The second phase is intended to identify any mineral deposits of potential economic importance and would involve:
· | examining underground characteristics of mineralization that were previously identified; | |
· | conducting more detailed geologic mapping; | |
· | conducting more advanced geochemical and geophysical surveys; | |
· | conducting more extensive trenching; and | |
· | conducting exploratory drilling. |
Subject to obtaining the necessary permits in a timely manner, the second phase can typically be completed on an individual property in nine to twelve months at a cost of less than $1 million. Our Silver District Project has reached the second phase.
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The third phase is intended to precisely define depth, width, length, tonnage and value per ton of any deposit that has been identified and would involve:
· | drilling to develop the mining site; | |
· | conducting metallurgical testing; and | |
· | obtaining other pertinent technical information required to define an ore reserve and complete a feasibility study. |
Depending upon the nature of the particular deposit, the third phase on any one property could take one to five years or more and cost well in excess of $1 million. None of our properties has reached the third phase.
We intend to explore and develop our properties ourselves, although our plans could change depending on the terms and availability of financing and the terms or merits of any joint venture proposals.
Plan of Exploration
We have two material properties, namely the Silver District Project in southwest Arizona and the SDA Mill in Nayarit State, Mexico. We currently intend to engage in exploration activities on the Silver District Project and, if commercially recoverable deposits are found, to conduct mineral development activities.
We intend to assess and acquire mineral properties in the region of the SDA Mill with the objective of sourcing ore for resumption of processing at the mill. To date, we have only begun preliminary exploration work.
Gold and Silver Prices
Our operating results are substantially dependent upon the world market prices of gold and silver. We have no control over gold or silver prices, which can fluctuate widely. The volatility of such prices is illustrated by the following graphs, which respectively set forth the prices of gold and silver per ounce (as reported by www.kitco.com) during the periods indicated:
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These historical prices are not indicative of future gold or silver prices.
Marketing
All of our mining operations, if successful, will produce precious metals in doré form or contained in a concentrate.
We plan to refine and market our precious metals doré and concentrates using a geographically diverse group of third party smelters and refiners. The loss of any one smelter or refiner may have a material adverse effect if alternate smelters and refiners are not available. We believe there is sufficient global capacity available to address the loss of any one smelter or refiner.
Hedging Activities
Our strategy is to provide shareholders with leverage to changes in gold and silver prices by selling precious metals production at market prices. We may sell precious metals from our future mines, if any, both pursuant to forward contracts and at spot prices prevailing at the time of sale. We may also enter into derivative contracts to protect the selling price for certain anticipated gold and silver production and to manage risks associated with commodities and foreign currencies.
Government Regulation
General
Our activities are and will be subject to extensive federal, state and local laws governing the protection of the environment, prospecting, mine development, production, taxes, labor standards, occupational health, mine safety, toxic substances and other matters. The costs associated with compliance with such regulatory requirements are substantial and possible future legislation and regulations could cause additional expense, capital expenditures, restrictions and delays in the development and continued operation of our properties, the extent of which cannot be predicted. In the context of environmental permitting, including the approval of reclamation plans, we must comply with known standards and regulations which may entail significant costs and delays. Although we are committed to environmental responsibility and believe we are in substantial compliance with applicable laws and regulations, amendments to current laws and regulations, more stringent implementation of these laws and regulations through judicial review or administrative action or the adoption of new laws could have a materially adverse effect upon our results of operations.
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Federal Environmental Laws
Certain mining wastes from extraction and beneficiation of ores are currently exempt from the extensive set of Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) regulations governing hazardous waste, although such wastes may be subject to regulation under state law as a solid or hazardous waste. The EPA has worked on a program to regulate these mining wastes pursuant to its solid waste management authority under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (“RCRA”). Certain ore processing and other wastes are currently regulated as hazardous wastes by the EPA under RCRA. If our future mine wastes, if any, were treated as hazardous waste or such wastes resulted in operations being designated as a “Superfund” site under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA” or “Superfund”) for cleanup, material expenditures would be required for the construction of additional waste disposal facilities or for other remediation expenditures. Under CERCLA, any present owner or operator of a Superfund site or an owner or operator at the time of its contamination generally may be held liable and may be forced to undertake remedial cleanup action or to pay for the government’s cleanup efforts. Such owner or operator may also be liable to governmental entities for the cost of damages to natural resources, which may be substantial. Additional regulations or requirements may also be imposed upon our future tailings and waste disposal, if any, in Nevada under the Federal Clean Water Act (“CWA”) and state law counterparts. We have reviewed and considered current federal legislation relating to climate change and we do not believe it to have a material effect on our operations. Additional regulation or requirements under any of these laws and regulations could have a materially adverse effect upon our results of operations.
In June 2018, we received a notification from the US Department of Interior regarding a breach of a mine tailings impoundment at the Red Cloud prospect in the Silver District. According to the notice, the tailings contained hazardous substances including lead and arsenic. We were indentified as a potential responsible party. We responded to the notification and have heard nothing further. We cannot predict whether the situation represents the potential a material liability.
Mexico
In order to carry out mining activities in Mexico, the Company is required to obtain a mining concession from the General Bureau of Mining, which belongs to the Ministry of Economy of the Federal Government, or be assigned previously granted concession rights, and both must be recorded with the Public Registry of Mining. In addition, mining works may have to be authorized by other authorities when performed in certain areas, including ejidos (communal owners of land recognized by the federal laws in Mexico), villages, dams, channels, general communications ways, submarine shelves of islands, islets and reefs, marine beds and subsoil and federal maritime-terrestrial zones. Reports have to be filed with the General Bureau of Mining in May of each year, evidencing previous calendar year mining investment and works. Annual reports, detailing technical and statistical information and production results, must be submitted during the first 30 business days of the following year for each concession or group of concessions bearing production and all concessions over six years of age. Bi-annual mining duties are payable in January and July of each year and, based on amount of surface of each mining concession, holders of mining concessions must also pay annually and no later than the last business day of March a special mining fee based on 7.5% of the income before interest and certain other permitted deductions derived from the transfer or sale of minerals, plus 0.5% of gross revenues from sales of gold, silver and platinum. Failure to pay any of these duties and submit the required reports could lead to cancellation of the concessions. Upon expiration or cancellation of the concession, certain obligations remain, such as filing technical reports and ground support.
Employees and Consultants
Effective June 1, 2016, we entered into an Employment Agreement with Dr. Pierce Carson and engaged his services as President and CEO of Magellan for an initial term of one year. Under the terms of the Employment Agreement, Mr. Carson was entitled to a salary of $6,667 per month for the first three months, and $10,000 per month for the following nine months. Effective June 1, 2017, and then again on June 1, 2018, the Employment Agreement was extended for an additional year at a salary $10,000 per month. If the Company is unable to pay the salary, the Company has the right to satisfy its obligation with shares of common stock.
Effective September 18, 2017, Michael P. Martinez was engaged on a consulting basis to serve as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer and Secretary. John C. Power stepped down from these positions, but continued in his role as a director of the Company.
We rely heavily on the services of our consulting geologist and other technical consultants.
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Our business faces many risks. Any of the risks discussed below, or elsewhere in this report or in our other filings with the SEC, could have a material impact on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
An investment in our securities is speculative and involves a high degree of risk. Please carefully consider the following risk factors, as well as the possibility of the loss of your entire investment, before deciding to invest in our securities.
Risks Related to our Business
Due to our history of operating losses our auditors are uncertain that we will be able to continue as a going concern.
Our financial statements have been prepared assuming that we will continue as a going concern. Due to our continuing operating losses and negative cash flows from our operations, the reports of our auditors issued in connection with our consolidated financial statements for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, contain explanatory paragraphs indicating that the foregoing matters raised substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. We cannot provide any assurance that we will be able to continue as a going concern.
We have no history of and limited experience in mineral production.
We have no history of and limited experience in producing gold or other metals. In addition, our management has limited technical training and experience with exploring for, starting and/or operating a mine. Our management may not be fully aware of many of the specific requirements related to working within this industry. Their decisions and choices may not take into account standard engineering or managerial approaches mineral exploration companies commonly use. Our operations, earnings and ultimate financial success could suffer due to our management’s limited experience in this industry. As a result, we would be subject to all of the risks associated with establishing a new mining operation and business enterprise. We may never successfully establish mining operations, and any such operations may not achieve profitability.
Our principal shareholders and control persons are also principal shareholders and control persons of Athena and Silver Saddle, which could result in conflicts with the interests of minority stockholders.
Messrs. Gibbs and Power are control persons and principal shareholders of Magellan, Athena and Silver Saddle. Magellan, Athena and Silver Saddle are engaged in mineral exploration activities, although in different geographical regions. While the geographical focus of the companies is different, numerous conflicts could arise in the future. For example, Messrs. Gibbs and Power have provided the majority of working capital for all three companies to date, and in the likely event that these companies require additional capital in the future their resources may be inadequate to finance the activities of all. In addition, if new prospects become available, a conflict may exist with respect to which company to offer those opportunities. Messrs. Gibbs and Power have not developed a conflict of interest policy to mitigate the potential adverse effects of these conflicts and as a result these conflicts represent a significant risk to the shareholders of the Company. Conflicts for access to limited resources and opportunities cannot be eliminated completely, and investors should be aware of their potential.
We have no proven or probable reserves.
We are currently in the exploration stage and have no proven or probable reserves, as those terms are defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on any of our properties.
In order to demonstrate the existence of proven or probable reserves under SEC guidelines, it would be necessary for us to advance the exploration of our Properties by significant additional delineation drilling to demonstrate the existence of sufficient mineralized material with satisfactory continuity which would provide the basis for a feasibility study which would demonstrate with reasonable certainty that the mineralized material can be economically extracted and produced. We do not have sufficient data to support a feasibility study with regard to the Properties, and in order to perform the drill work to support such feasibility study, we must obtain the necessary permits and funds to continue our exploration efforts. It is possible that, even after we have obtained sufficient geologic data to support a feasibility study on the Properties, such study will conclude that none of the identified mineral deposits can be economically and legally extracted or produced. If we cannot adequately confirm or discover any mineral reserves of precious metals on the Properties, we may not be able to generate any revenues. Even if we discover mineral reserves on the Properties in the future that can be economically developed, the initial capital costs associated with development and production of any reserves found is such that we might not be profitable for a significant time after the initiation of any development or production. The commercial viability of a mineral deposit once discovered is dependent on a number of factors beyond our control, including particular attributes of the deposit such as size, grade and proximity to infrastructure, as well as metal prices. In addition, development of a project as significant as the ones we might be planning will likely require significant debt financing, the terms of which could contribute to a delay of profitability.
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The exploration of mineral properties is highly speculative in nature, involves substantial expenditures and is frequently non-productive.
Mineral exploration is highly speculative in nature and is frequently non-productive. Substantial expenditures are required to:
· | establish ore reserves through drilling and metallurgical and other testing techniques; | |
· | determine metal content and metallurgical recovery processes to extract metal from the ore; and, | |
· | design mining and processing facilities. |
If we discover ore at the Properties, we expect that it would be several additional years from the initial phases of exploration until production is possible. During this time, the economic feasibility of production could change. As a result of these uncertainties, there can be no assurance that our exploration programs will result in proven and probable reserves in sufficient quantities to justify commercial operations.
Even if our exploration efforts at the Properties are successful, we may not be able to raise the funds necessary to develop the Properties.
If our exploration efforts at our prospects are successful, of which there can be no assurance, our current estimates indicate that we may be required to raise substantial external financing to develop and construct the mines. Sources of external financing could include bank borrowings and debt and equity offerings, but financing has become significantly more difficult to obtain in the current market environment. The failure to obtain financing would have a material adverse effect on our growth strategy and our results of operations and financial condition. We currently have no specific plan to obtain the necessary funding and there exist no agreements, commitments or arrangements to provide us with the financing that we may need. There can be no assurance that we will commence production at any of our Properties or generate sufficient revenues to meet our obligations as they become due or obtain necessary financing on acceptable terms, if at all, and we may not be able to secure the financing necessary to begin or sustain production at the Properties. Our failure to raise needed funding could also result in our inability to meet our future royalty and work commitments under our mineral leases, which could result in a forfeiture of our mineral interest altogether and a default under other financial commitments. In addition, should we incur significant losses in future periods, we may be unable to continue as a going concern, and we may not be able to realize our assets and settle our liabilities in the normal course of business at amounts reflected in our financial statements included or incorporated herein by reference.
We may not be able to obtain permits required for development of the Properties.
In the ordinary course of business, mining companies are required to seek governmental permits for expansion of existing operations or for the commencement of new operations. We will be required to obtain numerous permits for our Properties. Obtaining the necessary governmental permits is a complex and time-consuming process involving numerous jurisdictions and often involving public hearings and costly undertakings. Our efforts to develop the Properties may also be opposed by environmental groups. In addition, mining projects require the evaluation of environmental impacts for air, water, vegetation, wildlife, cultural, historical, geological, geotechnical, geochemical, soil and socioeconomic conditions. An Environmental Impact Statement would be required before we could commence mine development or mining activities. Baseline environmental conditions are the basis on which direct and indirect impacts of the Properties are evaluated and based on which potential mitigation measures would be proposed. If the Properties were found to significantly adversely impact the baseline conditions, we could incur significant additional costs to avoid or mitigate the adverse impact, and delays in the development of Properties could result.
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Permits would also be required for, among other things, storm-water discharge; air quality; wetland disturbance; dam safety (for water storage and/or tailing storage); septic and sewage; and water rights appropriation. In addition, compliance must be demonstrated with the Endangered Species Act and the National Historical Preservation Act.
The mining industry is intensely competitive.
The mining industry is intensely competitive. We may be at a competitive disadvantage because we must compete with other individuals and companies, many of which have greater financial resources, operational experience and technical capabilities than we do. Increased competition could adversely affect our ability to attract necessary capital funding or acquire suitable producing properties or prospects for mineral exploration in the future. We may also encounter increasing competition from other mining companies in our efforts to locate acquisition targets, hire experienced mining professionals and acquire exploration resources.
Our future success is subject to risks inherent in the mining industry.
Our future mining operations, if any, would be subject to all of the hazards and risks normally incident to developing and operating mining properties. These risks include:
· | insufficient ore reserves; |
· | fluctuations in metal prices and increase in production costs that may make mining of reserves uneconomic; |
· | significant environmental and other regulatory restrictions; |
· | labor disputes; geological problems; |
· | failure of underground stopes and/or surface dams; |
· | force majeure events; and |
· | the risk of injury to persons, property or the environment. |
Our future profitability will be affected by changes in the prices of metals.
If we establish reserves, and complete development of a mine, our profitability and long-term viability will depend, in large part, on the market price of gold. The market prices for metals are volatile and are affected by numerous factors beyond our control, including:
· | global or regional consumption patterns; |
· | supply of, and demand for, gold and other metals; |
· | speculative activities; |
· | expectations for inflation; and, |
· | political and economic conditions. |
The aggregate effect of these factors on metals prices is impossible for us to predict. Decreases in metals prices could adversely affect our ability to finance the exploration and development of our properties, which would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations and cash flows. There can be no assurance that metals prices will not decline.
The price of gold may decline in the future. If the price of gold and silver is depressed for a sustained period, we may be forced to suspend operations until the prices increase, and to record asset impairment write-downs. Any continued or increased net losses or asset impairments would adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
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We are subject to significant governmental regulations.
Our operations and exploration and development activities are subject to extensive federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing various matters, including:
· | environmental protection; |
· | management and use of toxic substances and explosives; |
· | management of natural resources; |
· | exploration and development of mines, production and post-closure reclamation; |
· | taxation; |
· | labor standards and occupational health and safety, including mine safety; and |
· | historic and cultural preservation. |
Failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations may result in civil or criminal fines or penalties or enforcement actions, including orders issued by regulatory or judicial authorities enjoining or curtailing operations or requiring corrective measures, installation of additional equipment or remedial actions, any of which could result in us incurring significant expenditures. We may also be required to compensate private parties suffering loss or damage by reason of a breach of such laws, regulations or permitting requirements. It is also possible that future laws and regulations, or a more stringent enforcement of current laws and regulations by governmental authorities, could cause additional expense, capital expenditures, restrictions on or suspensions of any future operations and delays in the exploration of our properties.
Changes in mining or environmental laws could increase costs and impair our ability to develop our properties.
From time to time the U.S. and Mexican governments may determine to revise U.S. or Mexican mining and environmental laws. It remains unclear to what extent new legislation or regulations may affect existing mining claims or operations. The effect of any such revisions on our operations cannot be determined conclusively until such revision is enacted; however, such legislation could materially increase costs on properties located on federal lands, such as ours, and such revision could also impair our ability to develop the Properties and to explore and develop other mineral projects.
Mineral exploration and development inherently involves significant and irreducible financial risks. We may suffer from the failure to find and develop profitable mineral deposits.
The exploration for and development of mineral deposits involves significant financial risks, which even a combination of careful evaluation, experience and knowledge may not eliminate. Unprofitable efforts may result from the failure to discover mineral deposits. Even if mineral deposits are found, such deposits may be insufficient in quantity and quality to return a profit from production, or it may take a number of years until production is possible, during which time the economic viability of the project may change. Few properties which are explored are ultimately developed into producing mines. Mining companies rely on consultants and others for exploration, development, construction and operating expertise.
Substantial expenditures are required to establish ore reserves, extract metals from ores and, in the case of new properties, to construct mining and processing facilities. The economic feasibility of any development project is based upon, among other things, estimates of the size and grade of ore reserves, proximity to infrastructures and other resources (such as water and power), metallurgical recoveries, production rates and capital and operating costs of such development projects, and metals prices. Development projects are also subject to the completion of favorable feasibility studies, issuance and maintenance of necessary permits and receipt of adequate financing.
Once a mineral deposit is developed, whether it will be commercially viable depends on a number of factors, including: the particular attributes of the deposit, such as size, grade and proximity to infrastructure; government regulations including taxes, royalties and land tenure; land use, importing and exporting of minerals and environmental protection; and mineral prices. Factors that affect adequacy of infrastructure include: reliability of roads, bridges, power sources and water supply; unusual or infrequent weather phenomena; sabotage; and government or other interference in the maintenance or provision of such infrastructure. All of these factors are highly cyclical. The exact effect of these factors cannot be accurately predicted, but the combination may result in not receiving an adequate return on invested capital.
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Significant investment risks and operational costs are associated with our exploration activities. These risks and costs may result in lower economic returns and may adversely affect our business.
Mineral exploration, particularly for gold, involves many risks and is frequently unproductive. If mineralization is discovered, it may take a number of years until production is possible, during which time the economic viability of the project may change.
Development projects may have no operating history upon which to base estimates of future operating costs and capital requirements. Development project items such as estimates of reserves, metal recoveries and cash operating costs are to a large extent based upon the interpretation of geologic data, obtained from a limited number of drill holes and other sampling techniques, and feasibility studies. Estimates of cash operating costs are then derived based upon anticipated tonnage and grades of ore to be mined and processed, the configuration of the ore body, expected recovery rates of metals from the ore, comparable facility and equipment costs, anticipated climate conditions and other factors. As a result, actual cash operating costs and economic returns of any and all development projects may materially differ from the costs and returns estimated, and accordingly, our financial condition and results of operations may be negatively affected.
Our failure to satisfy the financial commitments under the agreements controlling our rights to explore on our current prospects could result in our loss of those potential opportunities.
We hold all of our mineral interests under agreements and commitments that require ongoing financial obligations, including work commitments. Our failure to satisfy those obligations could result in a loss of those interests. In such an event, we would be required to recognize an impairment of the assets currently reported in our financial statements.
We are required to obtain government permits to begin new operations. The acquisition of such permits can be materially impacted by third party litigation seeking to prevent the issuance of such permits. The costs and delays associated with such approvals could affect our operations, reduce our revenues, and negatively affect our business as a whole.
Mining companies are required to seek governmental permits for the commencement of new operations. Obtaining the necessary governmental permits is a complex and time-consuming process involving numerous jurisdictions and often involving public hearings and costly undertakings. The duration and success of permitting efforts are contingent on many factors that are out of our control. The governmental approval process may increase costs and cause delays depending on the nature of the activity to be permitted, and could cause us to not proceed with the development of a mine. Accordingly, this approval process could harm our results of operations.
Any of our future acquisitions may result in significant risks, which may adversely affect our business.
An important element of our business strategy is the opportunistic acquisition of operating mines, properties and businesses or interests therein within our geographical area of interest. While it is our practice to engage independent mining consultants to assist in evaluating and making acquisitions, any mining properties or interests therein we may acquire may not be developed profitably or, if profitable when acquired, that profitability might not be sustained. In connection with any future acquisitions, we may incur indebtedness or issue equity securities, resulting in increased interest expense, or dilution of the percentage ownership of existing shareholders. We cannot predict the impact of future acquisitions on the price of our business or our common stock. Unprofitable acquisitions, or additional indebtedness or issuances of securities in connection with such acquisitions, may impact the price of our common stock and negatively affect our results of operations.
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Our ability to find and acquire new mineral properties is uncertain. Accordingly, our prospects are uncertain for the future growth of our business.
Because mines have limited lives based on proven and probable ore reserves, we may seek to replace and expand our future ore reserves, if any. Identifying promising mining properties is difficult and speculative. Furthermore, we encounter strong competition from other mining companies in connection with the acquisition of properties producing or capable of producing gold. Many of these companies have greater financial resources than we do. Consequently, we may be unable to replace and expand future ore reserves through the acquisition of new mining properties or interests therein on terms we consider acceptable. As a result, our future revenues from the sale of gold or other precious metals, if any, may decline, resulting in lower income and reduced growth.
Corporate and securities laws and regulations are likely to increase our costs.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (“SOX”), which became law in July 2002, has impacted our corporate governance, securities disclosure and compliance practices. In response to the requirements of SOX, the SEC and major stock exchanges have promulgated rules and listing standards covering a variety of subjects. Compliance with these rules and listing standards are likely to increase our general and administrative costs, and we expect these to continue to increase in the future. In particular, we are required to include the management report on internal control as part of our annual reports pursuant to Section 404 of SOX. We have evaluated our internal control systems in order (i) to allow management to report on our internal controls, as required by these laws, rules and regulations, (ii) to provide reasonable assurance that our public disclosure will be accurate and complete, and (iii) to comply with the other provisions of Section 404 of SOX. We cannot be certain as to the timing of the completion of our evaluation, testing and remediation actions or the impact these may have on our operations. Furthermore, there is no precedent available by which to measure compliance adequacy. If we are not able to implement the requirements relating to internal controls and all other provisions of Section 404 in a timely fashion or achieve adequate compliance with these requirements or other requirements of SOX, we might become subject to sanctions or investigation by regulatory authorities such as the SEC or FINRA. Any such action may materially adversely affect our reputation, financial condition and the value of our securities, including our common stock. SOX and these other laws, rules and regulations have increased legal and financial compliance costs and have made our corporate governance activities more difficult, time-consuming and costly.
If we fail to maintain an effective system of internal controls, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results or prevent fraud. As a result, current and potential shareholders could lose confidence in our financial reporting, this would harm our business and the trading price of our stock.
Effective internal controls are necessary for us to provide reliable financial reports and effectively prevent fraud. If we cannot provide financial reports or prevent fraud, our business reputation and operating results could be harmed. Inferior internal controls could also cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a negative effect on the trading price of our stock.
Nevada law and our by-laws protect our directors from certain types of lawsuits.
Nevada law provides that our directors will not be liable to us or our stockholders for monetary damages for all but certain types of conduct as directors. Our by-laws require us to indemnify our directors and officers against all damages incurred in connection with our business to the fullest extent provided or allowed by law. The exculpation provisions may have the effect of preventing shareholders from recovering damages against our directors caused by their negligence, poor judgment or other circumstances. The indemnification provisions may require us to use our assets to defend our directors and officers against claims, including claims arising out of their negligence, poor judgment, or other circumstances.
The Company is subject to extensive government regulations and permit requirements.
Operations, development and exploration on the Company’s properties are affected to varying degrees by political stability and government regulations relating to such matters as environmental protection, health, safety and labour, mining law reform, restrictions on production, price controls, tax increases, maintenance of claims, tenure, and expropriation of property. Failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations may result in fines or administrative penalties or enforcement actions, including orders issued by regulatory or judicial authorities enjoining or curtailing operations or requiring corrective measures, installation of additional equipment or remedial actions, any of which could result in the Company incurring significant expenditures.
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The activities of the Company require licenses and permits from various governmental authorities. The Company currently has been granted the requisite licenses and permits to enable it to carry on its existing business and operations. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to obtain all the necessary licenses and permits which may be required to carry out exploration, development and mining operations for its projects in the future. The Company might find itself in situations where the state of compliance with regulation and permits can be subject to interpretation and challenge from authorities that could carry risk of fines or temporary stoppage.
Opposition of the Company’s exploration, development and operational activities may adversely affect the Company’s reputation, its ability to receive mining rights or permits and its current or future activities.
Maintaining a positive relationship with the communities in which the Company operates is critical to continuing successful exploration and development. Community support for operations is a key component of a successful exploration or development project. Various international and national laws, codes, resolutions, conventions, guidelines and other materials relating to corporate social responsibility (including rights with respect to health and safety and the environment) may also require government consultation with communities on a variety of issues affecting local stakeholders, including the approval of mining rights or permits.
The Company may come under pressure in the jurisdictions in which it explores or develops to demonstrate that other stakeholders benefit and will continue to benefit from its commercial activities. Local stakeholders and other groups may oppose the Company’s current and future exploration, development and operational activities through legal or administrative proceedings, protests, roadblocks or other forms of public expression against the Company’s activities. Opposition by such groups may have a negative impact on the Company’s reputation and its ability to receive necessary mining rights or permits. Opposition may also require the Company to modify its exploration, development or operational plans or enter into agreements with local stakeholders or governments with respect to its projects, in some cases causing considerable project delays. Any of these outcomes could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations and Common Share price.
The title to the Company’s properties could be challenged or impugned.
Although the Company has or will receive title opinions for any properties in which it has a material interest, there is no guarantee that title to such properties will not be challenged or impugned. The Company has not conducted surveys of the claims in which it holds direct or indirect interests and, therefore the precise area and location of the properties may be in doubt. The Company’s properties may be subject to prior unregistered agreements or transfers or native land claims and title may be affected by unidentified or unknown defects. Title insurance is generally not available for mineral properties and the Company’s ability to ensure that it has obtained secure claims to individual mineral properties or mining concessions may be constrained. A successful challenge to the Company’s title to a property or to the precise area and location of a property could cause delays or stoppages to the Company’s exploration, development or operating activities without reimbursement to the Company. Any such delays or stoppages could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
Risks Associated with Foreign Operations
The Company relies on local counsel and advisors and the experience of its management and board of directors in foreign jurisdictions.
The legal and regulatory requirements in Mexico with respect to mineral exploration and mining activities, as well as local business customs and practices are different from those in the United States. The officers and directors of the Company must rely, to a great extent, on the Company’s local legal counsel and local consultants retained by the Company in order to keep abreast of material legal, regulatory and governmental developments as they pertain to and affect the Company’s business operations, and to assist the Company with its governmental relations. The Company must rely, to some extent, on those members of management and the Company’s board of directors who have previous experience working and conducting business in these countries in order to enhance its understanding of and appreciation for the local business customs and practices. The Company also relies on the advice of local experts and professionals in connection with current and new regulations that develop in respect of banking, financing, labor, litigation and tax matters in these countries. There can be no guarantee that reliance on such local counsel and advisors and the Company’s management and board of directors will result in compliance at all times with such legal and regulatory requirements and business customs and practices. Any such violations could result in a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
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Our operating properties located in Mexico are subject to changes in political or economic conditions and regulations in that country.
As of December 1, 2018, Andres Manual Lopez Obrador became the newly elected President of Mexico. President Obrador may attempt to implement changes to the mining regulatory environment that are adverse to the interests of mineral exploration and development companies. The risks with respect to Mexico include, but are not limited to: nationalization of properties, military repression, extreme fluctuations in currency exchange rates, criminal activity, lack of personal safety or ability to safeguard property, labor instability or militancy, mineral title irregularities and high rates of inflation. In addition, changes in mining or investment policies or shifts in political attitude in Mexico may adversely affect our business. We may be affected in varying degrees by government regulation with respect to restrictions on production, price controls, export controls, income taxes, expropriation of property, maintenance of claims, environmental legislation, land use, land claims of local people, opposition from non-governmental organizations, water use and mine safety. The effect of these factors cannot be accurately predicted and may adversely impact our operations.
Our ability to develop Mexican properties to provide ore to our SDA Mill is subject to the rights of the Ejido (agrarian cooperatives) who use or own the surface for agricultural purposes.
Our ability to mine minerals is subject to maintaining satisfactory arrangements and relationships with the Ejido for access and surface disturbances. Ejidos are groups of local inhabitants who were granted rights to conduct agricultural activities on the property. We must negotiate and maintain a satisfactory arrangement with these residents in order to disturb or discontinue their rights to farm.
Since a significant amount of our expenses in Mexico are paid in Mexican pesos, we are subject to changes in currency values that may adversely affect our results of operations.
Our operations in the future could be affected by changes in the value of the Mexican peso against the United States dollar. The appreciation of non-U.S. dollar currencies such as the peso against the U.S. dollar increases expenses and the cost of purchasing capital assets in U.S. dollar terms in Mexico, which can adversely impact our operating results and cash flows. Conversely, depreciation of non-U.S. dollar currencies usually decreases operating costs and capital asset purchases in U.S. dollar terms. The value of cash and cash equivalents, and other monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies also fluctuate with changes in currency exchange rates.
Our activities are subject to significant environmental regulations, which could raise the cost of doing business.
Our operations in Mexico are subject to environmental regulation by SEMARNAT. Regulations governing advancement of new projects or significant changes to existing projects require an environmental impact statement, known in Mexico as a MIA. We may also be required to submit proof of local community support for a project to obtain final approval. If an environmental impact statement is adverse or if we cannot obtain community support, our ability to explore and develop our properties could be adversely affected. Significant environmental legislation exists in Mexico, including fines and penalties for spills, release of emissions into the air, and other environmental damage, which fines or penalties could adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations.
In addition, significant state and federal environmental protection laws in the U.S. may hinder our ability to explore at our Silver District prospect and may also delay or prohibit us from developing properties where economic mineralization is found. Federal laws that govern mining claim location and maintenance and mining operations on federal lands are generally administered by the BLM. Additional federal laws, governing mine safety and health, also apply. State laws also require various permits and approvals before exploration, development or production operations can begin. Among other things, a reclamation plan must typically be prepared and approved, with bonding in the amount of projected reclamation costs. The bond is used to ensure that proper reclamation takes place, and the bond will not be released until that time. Local jurisdictions may also impose permitting requirements (such as conditional use permits or zoning approvals).
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The Company may be responsible for corruption and anti-bribery law violations.
The Company’s business is subject to the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”) and the Corrupt Foreign Public Officials Act (the “CFPOA”), which generally prohibit companies and company employees from engaging in bribery or other prohibited payments to foreign officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. The FCPA also requires companies to maintain accurate books and records and internal controls, including at foreign-controlled subsidiaries. There is a risk of potential FCPA violations. In addition, the Company is subject to the anti-bribery laws of Mexico and of any other countries in which it conducts business in the future. The Company’s employees or other agents may, without its knowledge and despite its efforts, engage in prohibited conduct under the Company’s policies and procedures and the FCPA, the CFPOA or other anti-bribery laws for which the Company may be held responsible. If the Company’s employees or other agents are found to have engaged in such practices, the Company could suffer severe penalties and other consequences that may have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition and results of operations.
The Company may be adversely affected by operating expense exchange rate fluctuations.
The Company’s activities and operations in Mexico make it subject to foreign currency fluctuations. Although the Company uses U.S. dollars as the currency for the presentation of its financial statements, the Company’s operating expenses are incurred in Mexican pesos in proportions that will typically range between 40% and 60% of total expenses, depending on the country. The fluctuation of these currencies in relation to the U.S. dollar will consequently have an impact upon the profitability of the Company’s mineral properties and therefore its ability to continue to finance its exploration, development and operations. Such fluctuations may also affect the value of the Company’s assets and shareholders’ equity. Future exploration, development and operational plans may need to be altered or abandoned if actual exchange rates for these currencies are less than or more than the rates estimated in any such future plans. To date, the Company has not entered into any agreements or purchased any instruments to hedge possible currency risks. The Company cannot be sure that any hedging techniques it may implement in the future will be successful or that its business, financial condition, and results of operations will not be materially adversely affected by exchange rate fluctuations.
Risks Related to Our Stock
Future issuances of our common stock could dilute current shareholders and adversely affect the market if it develops.
We have the authority to issue up to one billion shares of common stock and 25 million shares of preferred stock and to issue options and warrants to purchase shares of our common stock, without shareholder approval. Future share issuances are likely due to our need to raise additional working capital in the future. Those future issuances will likely result in dilution to our shareholders. In addition, we could issue large blocks of our common stock to fend off unwanted tender offers or hostile takeovers without further shareholder approval, which would not only result in further dilution to investors in this offering but could also depress the market value of our common stock, if a public trading market develops.
We may issue preferred stock that would have rights that are preferential to the rights of our common stock that could discourage potentially beneficial transactions to our common shareholders.
An issuance of shares of preferred stock could result in a class of outstanding securities that would have preferences with respect to voting rights and dividends and in liquidation over our common stock and could, upon conversion or otherwise, have all of the rights of our common stock. Our Board of Directors' authority to issue preferred stock could discourage potential takeover attempts or could delay or prevent a change in control through merger, tender offer, proxy contest or otherwise by making these attempts more difficult or costly to achieve. The issuance of preferred stock could impair the voting, dividend and liquidation rights of common stockholders without their approval.
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There is currently an illiquid market for our common shares, and shareholders may be unable to sell their shares for an indefinite period of time.
There is presently an illiquid market for our common shares. There is no assurance that a liquid market for our common shares will ever develop in the United States or elsewhere, or that if such a market does develop that it will continue.
Over-the-counter stocks are subject to risks of high volatility and price fluctuation.
We have not applied to have our shares listed on any stock exchange or on the NASDAQ Capital Market, and we do not plan to do so in the foreseeable future. The OTC market for securities has experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations during certain periods. These broad market fluctuations and other factors, such as commodity prices and the investment markets generally, as well as economic conditions and quarterly variations in our results of operations, may adversely affect the market price of our common stock and make it more difficult for investors to sell their shares.
Trading in our securities is on an electronic bulletin board established for securities that do not meet NASDAQ listing requirements. As a result, investors will find it substantially more difficult to dispose of our securities. Investors may also find it difficult to obtain accurate information and quotations as to the price of, our common stock.
Our stock price may be volatile and as a result, shareholders could lose all or part of their investment. The value of our shares could decline due to the impact of any of the following factors upon the market price of our common stock:
· | failure to meet operating budget; |
· | decline in demand for our common stock; |
· | operating results failing to meet the expectations of securities analysts or investors in any quarter; |
· | downward revisions in securities analysts' estimates or changes in general market conditions; |
· | investor perception of the mining industry or our prospects; and |
· | general economic trends. |
In addition, stock markets have experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations and the market prices of securities have been highly volatile. These fluctuations are often unrelated to operating performance and may adversely affect the market price of our common stock.
Outstanding shares that are eligible for future sale could adversely impact a public trading market for our common stock.
All of the shares of common stock that were distributed under the Athena spin-off dividend are free-trading shares. In addition, in the future, we may offer and sell shares without registration under the Securities Act. All of such shares will be "restricted securities" as defined by Rule 144 ("Rule 144") under the Securities Act and cannot be resold without registration except in reliance on Rule 144 or another applicable exemption from registration. Under Rule 144, our non-affiliates (who have not been affiliates within the past 90 days) can sell restricted shares held for at least six months, subject only to the restriction that we made available public information as required by Rule 144 (which restriction is not applicable after the shares have been held by non-affiliates for at least 12 months). Our affiliates can sell restricted securities after they have been held for six months, subject to compliance with manner of sale, volume restrictions, Form 144 filing and current public information requirements.
No prediction can be made as to the effect, if any, that future sales of restricted shares of common stock, or the availability of such common stock for sale, will have on the market price of the common stock prevailing from time to time. Sales of substantial amounts of such common stock in the public market, or the perception that such sales may occur, could adversely affect the then prevailing market price of the common stock.
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Owners of our common stock are subject to the “penny stock” rules.
Since our shares are not listed on a national stock exchange or quoted on the Nasdaq Market within the United States, trading in our shares on the OTC market is subject, to the extent the market price for our shares is less than $5.00 per share, to a number of regulations known as the "penny stock rules". The penny stock rules require a broker-dealer to deliver a standardized risk disclosure document prepared by the SEC, to provide the customer with additional information including current bid and offer quotations for the penny stock, the compensation of the broker-dealer and its salesperson in the transaction, monthly account statements showing the market value of each penny stock held in the customer's account, and to make a special written determination that the penny stock is a suitable investment for the investor and receive the investor’s written agreement to the transaction. To the extent these requirements may be applicable they will reduce the level of trading activity in the secondary market for our shares and may severely and adversely affect the ability of broker-dealers to sell our shares, if a publicly traded market develops.
We do not expect to pay cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Any return on investment may be limited to the value of our stock.
We have never paid any cash dividends on any shares of our capital stock, and we do not anticipate that we will pay any dividends in the foreseeable future. Our current business plan is to retain any future earnings to finance the expansion of our business. Any future determination to pay cash dividends will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors, and will be dependent upon our financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements and other factors as our board of directors may deem relevant at that time. If we do not pay cash dividends, our stock may be less valuable because a return on your investment will only occur if our stock price appreciates.
Nevada law and our by-laws protect our directors from certain types of lawsuits.
Nevada law provides that our directors will not be liable to us or our stockholders for monetary damages for all but certain types of conduct as directors. Our by-laws require us to indemnify our directors and officers against all damages incurred in connection with our business to the fullest extent provided or allowed by law. The exculpation provisions may have the effect of preventing stockholders from recovering damages against our directors caused by their negligence, poor judgment or other circumstances. The indemnification provisions may require us to use our assets to defend our directors and officers against claims, including claims arising out of their negligence, poor judgment, or other circumstances.
Risks Related to Our Secured Debt
Our principal assets have been pledged as collateral to secure outstanding secured debt; and if we are unable to repay the debt, the creditors have the right to execute against our assets.
Pursuant to the terms of the Credit Agreement with Mr. Gibbs, at December 31, 2018 we were indebted in the amount of $852,500, principal and $265,876 of accrued interest. The Credit matured on December 31, 2018. In April 2019 the credit facility was extended to December 31, 2019 in exchange for a fee equal to 2% of the outstanding balance. This obligations is secured by a pledge of 100% of the issued and outstanding equity securities of Gulf + Western Industries, Inc., which owns all of the Company’s interest in the Silver District property. Should we default under the Gibbs Credit Agreement, Mr. Gibbs would likely foreclose on the stock pledge and take ownership of Gulf + Western.
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Likewise, the Series 2017 Notes in the principal amount of $1,155,000 are secured by a pledge of 100% of the issued and outstanding common stock of Magellan Acquisition Corporation, which owns 100% of Minerales Vane2, which owns the SDA Mill. The Series 2017 Notes mature on December 31, 2019. If we are unable to repay the Series 2017 Notes, the holders thereof could exercise their rights under the pledge and take ownership of the SDA Mill.
ITEM 1B. | UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS. |
None.
ITEM 2. | PROPERTIES |
Mining Properties
Descriptions of our mining properties are contained in the Business discussion in this Report.
ITEM 3. | LEGAL PROCEEDINGS |
None
ITEM 4. | REMOVED AND RESERVED |
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ITEM 5. | MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS |
Effective May 2012, our common stock was approved for quotation on the OTC Bulletin Board under the ticker symbol “MAGE.” The Company’s shares are now quoted on the OTCQB of the OTC Markets Group, Inc. The following sets forth the high and low trading prices for the periods shown:
2017 | 2018 | |||||||||||||||
High | Low | High | Low | |||||||||||||
First quarter ended March 31 | $ | 4.00 | $ | 4.00 | $ | 1.74 | $ | 0.79 | ||||||||
Second quarter ended June 30 | $ | 6.50 | $ | 5.50 | $ | 1.75 | $ | 0.60 | ||||||||
Third quarter ended September 30 | $ | 3.00 | $ | 3.00 | $ | 1.75 | $ | 0.90 | ||||||||
Fourth quarter ended December 31 | $ | 1.50 | $ | 1.50 | $ | 1.30 | $ | 0.85 |
The foregoing prices give retroactive effect to the one-for-fifty (1-for-50) reverse stock split which was effective on January 7, 2019 (the “Reverse Split”). The closing price of the Company's common stock as of April 4, 2019 was $2.00, as reported on the OTC.QB. The OTC.QB prices are bid and ask prices which represent prices between broker-dealers and do not include retail mark-ups and mark-downs or any commissions to the broker-dealer. The prices do not reflect prices in actual transactions. As of February 6, 2019 there were approximately 73 record owners of the Company's common stock.
The OTC.QB is a registered quotation service that displays real-time quotes, last sale prices and volume information in over-the-counter (OTC) securities. An OTC equity security generally is any equity that is not listed or traded on NASDAQ or a national securities exchange. The OTCQB is not an issuer listing service, market or exchange. Although the OTCQB does not have any listing requirements, per se, to be eligible for quotation on the OTCQB, issuers must remain current in their filings with the SEC or applicable regulatory authority.
Our Board of Directors may declare and pay dividends on outstanding shares of common stock out of funds legally available therefore in its sole discretion; however, to date, no dividends have been paid on common stock and we do not anticipate the payment of dividends in the foreseeable future.
Trading in our common stock is subject to rules adopted by the SEC regulating broker dealer practices in connection with transactions in "penny stocks." Those disclosure rules applicable to penny stocks require a broker dealer, prior to a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from the rules, to deliver a standardized risk disclosure document prepared by the SEC. That disclosure document advises an investor that investment in penny stocks can be very risky and that the investor's salesperson or broker is not an impartial advisor but rather paid to sell the shares. The disclosure contains further warnings for the investor to exercise caution in connection with an investment in penny stocks, to independently investigate the security, as well as the salesperson with whom the investor is working and to understand the risky nature of an investment in this security. The broker dealer must also provide the customer with certain other information and must make a special written determination that the penny stock is a suitable investment for the purchaser and receive the purchaser's written agreement to the transaction. Further, the rules require that, following the proposed transaction, the broker provide the customer with monthly account statements containing market information about the prices of the securities.
Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
The following is a summary of sales of unregistered securities undertaken by the Company. The share, per share and price per share information have been adjusted to give retroactive effect to the Reverse Split.
(a) Effective February 19, 2018, the Company completed the sale of Units, each Unit consisting of one share of common stock and one Warrant. The securities were sold exclusively to persons who qualified as “accredited investors” within the meaning of Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act. There were a total of 10 accredited investors who participated in the offering. The sale of the securities was undertaken without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon an exemption from registration requirements under Regulation D of the Securities Act. The securities were purchased for investment purposes, not with a view to distribution and were subject to restrictions on transfer.
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(b) On May 18, 2018, the Company issued 100,000 shares of common stock to the Company’s principal shareholder and creditor as repayment in full of $100,000 in principal advances made to the Company pursuant to an Agreement to Convert Debt. The individual qualified as an “accredited investor” within the meaning of Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act. The securities, which were taken for investment and were subject to appropriate transfer restrictions, were issued without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon the exemption provided in Section 4(a)2 of the Securities Act.
(c) Effective June 1, 2018, the Company completed the sale of 250,000 Units, each Unit consisting of one share of common stock and one Warrant. The securities were sold exclusively to persons who qualified as “accredited investors” within the meaning of Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act. There were a total of six accredited investors who participated in the offering. The sale of the securities was undertaken without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon an exemption from registration requirements under Rule 506 of Regulation D of the Securities Act. The securities were purchased for investment purposes, not with a view to distribution and were subject to restrictions on transfer.
(d) On June 20, 2018, the Company issued 60,000 shares of common stock to one investor pursuant to the exercise of issued and outstanding warrants. The securities were issued without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon an exemption from registration requirements under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act. The securities were purchased for investment purposes, not with a view to distribution and were subject to restrictions on transfer.
(e) On June 20, 2018, the Company issued 20,000 shares of common stock pursuant to the exercise of issued and outstanding warrants by one warrant holder. The securities were issued without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon an exemption from registration requirements under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act. The securities were purchased for investment purposes, not with a view to distribution and were subject to restrictions on transfer.
(f) On July 25, 2018, the Company issued 98,100 shares of common stock to its CEO as repayment in full of $90,000 in accrued but unpaid compensation and $8,100 in cash advances made to the Company pursuant to an Agreement to Convert Debt. The individual qualified as an “accredited investor” within the meaning of Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act. The securities, which were taken for investment and were subject to appropriate transfer restrictions, were issued without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon the exemption provided in Section 4(a)2 of the Securities Act.
(g) On August 13, 2018, the Company issued 20,000 shares of common stock to its CEO pursuant to a Restricted Stock Award Agreement. The 20,000 shares were issued as a result of meeting certain vesting requirements contained in the Restricted Stock Award Agreement. The individual qualified as an “accredited investor” within the meaning of Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act. The securities, which were taken for investment and were subject to appropriate transfer restrictions, were issued without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon the exemption provided in Section 4(a)2 of the Securities Act.
(h) On August 30, 2018 the Company completed the sale of 90,000 Units at a price of $1.00 per Unit. Each Unit consisted of one share of Common Stock and one Warrant. There was a total of one accredited investor who participated in the offering. The sale of the securities was undertaken without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon an exemption from registration requirements under Rule 506 of Regulation D of the Securities Act. The securities were purchased for investment purposes, not with a view to distribution and were subject to restrictions on transfer.
(i) On August 29, 2018, the Company issued 40,000 shares of common stock to one investor pursuant to the exercise of an issued and outstanding Warrant. The securities were issued without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon an exemption from registration requirements under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act. The securities were purchased for investment purposes, not with a view to distribution and were subject to restrictions on transfer.
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(j) On September 25, 2018, the Company issued 20,261 shares of common stock as partial consideration under a data share agreement. The shares were valued at $1.00 per share. The individual qualified as an “accredited investor” within the meaning of Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act. The securities, which were taken for investment and were subject to appropriate transfer restrictions, were issued without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon the exemption provided in Section 4(a)2 of the Securities Act.
(k) On various dates between July and October, 2018, the Company issued an aggregate of 236,000 shares to two institutional investors pursuant to the partial conversion of convertible promissory notes. The two institution investors each qualified as an “accredited investor” within the meaning of Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act. The securities, which were taken for investment and were subject to appropriate transfer restrictions, were issued without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon the exemption provided in Section 4(a)2 of the Securities Act.
(l) In November and December, 2018, the Company sold an aggregate of $120,000 in Units, each Unit consisting of one share of Common Stock, one Warrant exercisable to purchase two shares of Common stock at a price of $2.00 per share, and one Warrant exercisable to purchase two shares of Common Stock at a price of $3.00 per shares. The Units were sold to two investors, each of whom qualified as an “accredited investor” within the meaning of Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act. The securities, which were taken for investment and were subject to appropriate transfer restrictions, were issued without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon the exemption provided in Section 4(a)2 and Rule 506(b) of Regulation D under the Securities Act.
(m) In October 2018, the Company sold an aggregate of $205,000 in convertible notes (the “Series 2018 Notes”). The Series 2018A Notes were sold to five investors, each of whom qualified as an “accredited investor” within the meaning of Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act. The securities, which were taken for investment and were subject to appropriate transfer restrictions, were issued without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon the exemption provided in Section 4(a)2 and Rule 506(b) of Regulation D under the Securities Act.
(n) In December 2018, the Company sold an aggregate of $150,000 in convertible notes (the “Series 2018B Notes”). The Series 2018A Notes were sold to 2 investors, each of whom qualified as an “accredited investor” within the meaning of Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act. The securities, which were taken for investment and were subject to appropriate transfer restrictions, were issued without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon the exemption provided in Section 4(a)2 and Rule 506(b) of Regulation D under the Securities Act.
(o) In October 2018, the Company sold an aggregate of $160,700 in bridge notes (the “Bridge Notes”). The Bridge Notes were sold to two investors, each of whom qualified as an “accredited investor” within the meaning of Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act. The securities, which were taken for investment and were subject to appropriate transfer restrictions, were issued without registration under the Securities Act in reliance upon the exemption provided in Section 4(a)2 and Rule 506(b) of Regulation D under the Securities Act.
INCENTIVE COMPENSATION
2017 Equity Incentive Plan
We have not adopted any equity compensation or stock option plans, except as follows:
The Board of Directors of the Company concluded, in order to attract and hire key technical personnel and management as our Company grows, it will be necessary to offer option packages in order to compete effectively with other companies seeking the support of these highly qualified individuals. After careful consideration, the Board recommended the approval of the Company’s 2017 Equity Incentive Plan as being in the best interests of Stockholders.
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Effective September 1, 2017, the 2017 Equity Incentive Plan was approved by written consent of stockholders holding 75% of the Company’s outstanding common stock, and was adopted by the Board of Directors. The Company is authorized to grant rights to acquire up to a maximum of 200,000 shares of common stock under the Plan, giving retroactive effect to the Reverse Split. The Plan is authorized to grant incentive stock options that qualify under Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
The 2017 Plan provides for the grant of (1) both incentive and nonstatutory stock options, (2) stock bonuses, (3) rights to purchase restricted stock and (4) stock appreciation rights (collectively, "Stock Awards"). Incentive stock options granted under the 2017 Plan are intended to qualify as "incentive stock options" within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code. Nonstatutory stock options granted under the 2017 Plan are intended not to qualify as incentive stock options under the Code.
Arrangements with CEO
When he was first engaged as President, CEO and Director of G+W in June 2015, W. Pierce Carson was granted shares of G+W representing 15% of the total issued and outstanding shares of G+W.
In July 2016, we completed a reverse triangular merger pursuant to which a newly formed merger subsidiary was merged into Gulf + Western, and the 15% equity interest in Gulf + Western owned by Mr. Carson was converted into 172,479 shares of Magellan common stock. As a result of the merger, Gulf + Western became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Magellan.
On June 1, 2016 we executed an employment agreement with Dr. Carson in which he assumed the positions of President and Chief Executive Officer of Magellan Gold Corporation. The agreement also provided that Dr. Carson be appointed a Director of Magellan Gold Corporation, and effective June 30, 2016, Dr. Carson was appointed a Director of Magellan.
During the term of the agreement, Magellan agreed to pay Dr. Carson a base salary in equal semi-monthly installments less required withholding and other applicable taxes. Dr. Carson’s salary was set at $6,667 per month during the three-month period from June 1, 2016 through August 31, 2016, and thereafter at $10,000 per month. Until such time as Magellan is properly funded, Magellan may defer and accrue salary owed. If not properly funded before the end of the term, Magellan may at its option issue shares of Magellan common stock as settlement of the accrued salary liability. The initial term of the agreement covered the period from June 1, 2016 to May 31, 2017. On June 1, 2017, Dr. Carson and the Company agreed to extend the term of the agreement to May 31, 2018, with all terms of the original agreement remaining unchanged. Effective June 1, 2018, the agreement was again extended for an additional year to May 31, 2019.
Dr. Carson has the right to voluntarily terminate his employment with Magellan during the term. To effect such voluntary termination, Dr. Carson shall provide Magellan at least 60 days advanced written notice of such termination. Upon termination, Dr. Carson shall be paid his base salary through the date of termination, including any amount that may have been deferred and accrued.
On October 26, 2017, Dr. Carson agreed to waive payment of accrued but unpaid salary obligations from June 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017 in the aggregate amount of $150,000. The waiver of accrued wages was recorded as a capital contribution to the Company. Dr. Carson was subsequently issued 80,000 shares of the Company’s restricted common stock.
At December 31, 2017 a total of $30,000 and $2,796 of salary and associated payroll tax obligations, respectively, is accrued in connection with the agreement and included in accrued liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Effective July 24, 2018, the Company and W. Pierce Carson, President, executed an Agreement to Convert Debt, pursuant to which Carson agreed to convert $90,000 in accrued but unpaid executive compensation for the fiscal quarters ended December 31, 2017, March 31, 2018 and June 30, 2018 and a cash advance of $8,100 made to the Company into an aggregate of 98,100 shares of Common Stock, valued at $1.00 per share.
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Effective July 24, 2018, the Company and W. Pierce Carson executed a Restricted Stock Award Agreement pursuant to which the Company granted to Carson a restricted stock award consisting of 80,000 shares of Common Stock, valued at $1.00 per share. 20,000 of the shares will vest upon the Company completing a milestone (which was achieved), and the remaining 60,000 shares are subject to ratable vesting over an 18-month period. During the year ended December 31, 2018 the Company recognized an expense of $36,667 related to this issuance.
At December 31, 2018 a total of $60,000 and $13,870 of salary and associated payroll tax obligations, respectively, is accrued in connection with the agreement and included in accrued liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
ITEM 6. | SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA |
We are a smaller reporting company as defined by the Exchange Act and are not required to provide the information required under this item.
ITEM 7. | MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
We use the terms “Magellan,” “we,” “our,” and “us” to refer to Magellan Gold Corporation.
The following discussion and analysis provides information that management believes is relevant for an assessment and understanding of our results of operations and financial condition. This information should be read in conjunction with our audited financial statements, which are included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.
Forward-Looking Statements
Some of the information presented in this Form 10-K constitutes “forward-looking statements”. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements that include terms such as “may,” “will,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “continue,” “believe,” “plan,” or the like, as well as all statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. Although we believe our expectations are based on reasonable assumptions within the bounds of our knowledge of our business and operations, there can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from expectations.
All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made. We undertake no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they are made.
Overview
On January 3, 2019, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) informed Magellan Gold Corporation, a Nevada corporation (the “Company”) that a 1-for-50 reverse split of the Company’s common stock, previously disclosed in the Company’s Definitive Information Statement on Schedule 14C filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on September 22, 2017, would be effective at the market open on January 7, 2019. The stock split has been retroactively adjusted throughout these financial statements and footnotes.
We were incorporated on September 28, 2010, in Nevada. Our principal business is the acquisition and exploration of mineral resources. We have not presently determined whether the properties to which we have mineral rights contain mineral reserves that are economically recoverable.
We have only had limited operations to date and we rely upon the sale of our securities and borrowings from significant investors to fund our operations, as we have not generated any revenue.
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In August 2012, we entered into an option agreement and subsequently purchased the “Silver District” project consisting of 85 unpatented lode mining claims, 4 patented lode claims, a Arizona State Exploration Permit of 154.66 acres and 23 unpatented mill site claims, totaling over 2,000 acres in La Paz County, Arizona. Since our acquisition, we have increased our land position in the Silver District by staking two unpatented lode mining claims, leased two additional patented claims and have increased our Arizona State Exploration Permit to 334.85 acres.
On December 31, 2014, we formed and organized a new wholly-owned subsidiary, Gulf + Western Industries, Inc., a Nevada corporation (“Gulf+Western” or “G+W”), to own our Silver District mining interests. On October 1, 2014 we completed the transfer of those assets from Magellan to G+W. At the time of the transfer, Magellan owned all the outstanding common stock of G+W. Effective December 31, 2014, Magellan pledged all its ownership interest in G+W to Mr. John D. Gibbs, a significant shareholder in the Company, as security for outstanding amounts under a line of credit agreement between Magellan and Mr. Gibbs. As of December 31, 2018, the total amount owed under the credit agreement was $1,118,376, which includes $852,500 of principal and $265,876 of accrued interest.
On June 1, 2015, we transferred 15% of our ownership interest in G+W to Dr. W. Pierce Carson (Dr. Carson), in exchange for one year of service as President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of G+W. As a result of the transaction, Magellan’s ownership interest in G+W was reduced to 85%. The transaction was valued at $50,000 representing compensation for the one-year period from 2015 through May 2016. On June 1, 2016 we executed an employment agreement with Dr. Carson in which he assumed the positions of President and Chief Executive Officer of Magellan Gold Corporation. The agreement also provided that Dr. Carson be appointed a Director of Magellan Gold Corporation, effective June 30, 2016. As a result, Mr. John Power resigned his positions as President and Chief Executive Officer and retained the position of Chief Financial Officer until December 31, 2017 upon his replacement by Michael P. Martinez as CFO. Mr. Power and Dr. Carson currently serve as Directors of Magellan.
In July 2016, the Company completed a share exchange with Dr. Carson in which Dr. Carson surrendered his 15% interest in G+W in exchange for 172,479 shares of Magellan Gold Corporation. As a result of this transaction, G+W became a wholly owned subsidiary of Magellan Gold Corporation.
On October 24, 2016, the Company entered into a Mining Option Agreement (“Agreement”) between and among Rio Silver Inc., a Canadian company (“Rio Silver”), Minera Rio Plata S.A.C., a Peruvian company and subsidiary of Rio Silver (“Minera”), and Magellan Gold Peru S.A.C., a Peruvian company and wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (“Magellan Peru”) pursuant to which Rio Silver through Minera, granted to the Company the sole and exclusive option to acquire an undivided 50% interest in and to property located in central Peru. Under the terms of the Agreement, the Company has the right to earn an undivided 50% interest in the Niñobamba Silver/Gold Project in central Peru. To earn its 50% interest, the Company must spend $2.0 million in exploration activities in the project over three years. The Niñobamba project is comprised of five concessions that total 36.5 square kilometers (9.026 acres). Effective December 31, 2017, the Company agreed with Rio Silver to terminate the option agreement, thereby terminating the Company’s option to earn an interest in the Niñobamba Silver/Gold Project. The Company retained its ownership of Rio Silver stock.
On November 30, 2017, the Company purchased from Rose Petroleum plc (“Rose”) a mineral processing mill operation located in the state of Navarit, Mexico (the “SDA Mill”) as well as its associated assets, licenses and agreements. Magellan previously paid a $50,000 option payment, and an additional $100,000 option-to-purchase extension. The $100,000 option extension payment was applied against the cash portion of the purchase price.
The purchase price for the SDA Mill consisted of $850,000 cash, a $50,000 promissory note, the $50,000 non-refundable option payment, the $100,000 for the option-to-purchase payment, and 284,017 shares of common stock (the “Shares”). The note is non-interest bearing and has been paid in full. The Shares will be held in escrow for a period of 12 months and the Company has the option to repurchase the Shares from Rose for the sum of $500,000 in the first six months and $550,000 in months seven to eleven.
Rose owned one share of Series A capital stock of Minerales Vane S.A. de C.V. (“Minerales Vane 1”) and Vane Minerals (UK) Limited (“Vane UK”) owned 49,999 shares of Series A capital stock and 26,524,000 shares of Series B capital stock of Minerales Vane 1.
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Prior to closing, all of the assets and operations related to the SDA Mill were transferred to a newly incorporated entity, Minerales Vane 2 S.A. de C.V. (“Minerales Vane 2”). Effective November 30, 2017, the Company’s newly incorporated wholly-owned subsidiary, Magellan Acquisition Corporation (“MAC”), acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding shares of Minerales Vane 2.
On October 17, 2017, the Company amended the agreement to include the acquisition of Minerales VANE Operaciones (“MVO”) (the entity that provides labor to the Mill) for $2,500 as soon as practicable following the Closing Date, rather than prior to the Closing Date. At December 31, 2017, the Company had not obtained control of MVO. Magellan subsequently acquired control of MVO in January 2018 and paid for it in April 2018.
Our primary focus with the acquisition of the SDA Mill in Mexico is to transform Magellan into a production company, to continue to advance our Arizona silver project towards resource definition and eventual development, and possibly to acquire additional mineral rights and conduct additional exploration, development and permitting activities. Our mineral lease payments, permitting applications and exploration and development efforts will require additional capital. We rely upon the sale of our securities as well as advances and loans from executive management and significant shareholders to fund our operations as we have not generated any significant revenue.
Results of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||
2018 | 2017 | |||||||
Revenues, net | $ | 123,955 | $ | – | ||||
Operating expenses: | ||||||||
Cost of sales | 437,711 | – | ||||||
Exploration costs | 20,035 | 61,233 | ||||||
General and administrative expenses | 886,770 | 964,302 | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 118,822 | 12,104 | ||||||
Accretion of asset retirement obligation | – | 367 | ||||||
Impairment loss | 323,200 | 345,697 | ||||||
Total operating expenses | 1,786,538 | 1,383,703 | ||||||
Operating loss | (1,662,583 | ) | (1,383,703 | ) | ||||
Other income (expense): | ||||||||
Interest expense | (718,583 | ) | (96,480 | ) | ||||
Foreign currency exchange gain | 3,128 | – | ||||||
Loss on extinguishment of debt | (73,250 | ) | – | |||||
Unrealized loss on available for sale securities | (38,923 | ) | – | |||||
Other expense | (48,644 | ) | – | |||||
Gain (loss) on change in derivative liability | 224,529 | (657,776 | ) | |||||
Net loss | $ | (2,314,326 | ) | $ | (2,137,959 | ) |
Revenues
During the year ended December 31, 2018 our total revenues were $123,955 as compared to $0 during the same period in 2017. Revenues were generated from the sale of concentrate from the processing of tailings left from operations prior to our acquisition of the SDA Mill.
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Operating expenses
During the year ended December 31, 2018, our total operating expenses were $1,786,538 as compared to $1,383,703 during the year ended December 31, 2017.
During the year ended December 31, 2018 our total cost of sales were $437,711 as compared to $0 during the same period in 2017. Cost of sales were comprised primarily of labor and benefits, equipment depreciation, utilities and supplies from operating the SDA Mill.
During the year ended December 31, 2018 we incurred $20,035 of exploration costs as compared to $61,233 in 2017. Exploration cost for the year ended December 31, 2018 comprised of fees to our consulting geologist, lease payments and maintenance expenses. Exploration costs for the year ended December 31, 2017 are comprised of $24,188 for our consulting geologist, geochemical, lease payments and maintenance expenses associated with our Silver District claims, and $29,545 and $7,500 in various mining related expenses associated with our mining efforts in Peru and Mexico, respectively.
General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018 total $886,770 as compared to $964,302 for the year ended December 31, 2017. The $77,532 decrease is primarily associated with decreases in officer compensation and investor relations offset by increases in legal and accounting fees. For the year ended December 31, 2018, administrative expenses comprised of investor relations fees of $182,338, officer compensation of $207,741, accounting, auditing and legal fees of $400,808, other administrative costs including travel, office and facility rents totaling $95,883. For the year ended December 31, 2017, administrative expenses comprised of investor relations fees of $147,754, officer compensation of $384,935, accounting and auditing fees of $63,128, legal fees of $106,651, management fees to Mr. Power of $20,000, other administrative costs including travel, office and facility rents, and other expenses associated with our acquisition efforts of the SDA Mill totaling $241,335, and a $499 gain on foreign currency translations associated with our operations in Peru.
On June 1, 2016 we executed an employment agreement with Dr. Pierce Carson in which Dr. Carson assumed the positions of President and Chief Executive Officer of Magellan Gold Corporation. The term of the agreement covered the period from June 1, 2016 to May 31, 2017. On June 1, 2017, Dr. Carson and the Company agreed to extend the agreement to May 31, 2018 under the same terms and conditions. During the term of the agreement, Dr. Carson was paid a base salary in equal semi-monthly installments. Dr. Carson’s salary was set at $6,667 per month during the three-month period from June 1, 2016 through August 31, 2016, and thereafter at $10,000 per month. A combined total of $280,000 representing stock compensation, waived salary, base salary and applicable payroll taxes was expensed and is included in general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2017. A total of $196,667 was included in general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, salary and payroll expense totaling $73,870 and $32,796 was unpaid and is included in accrued liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Effective July 24, 2018, the Company and W. Pierce Carson, President, executed an Agreement to Convert Debt, pursuant to which Carson agreed to convert $90,000 in accrued but unpaid executive compensation for the fiscal quarters ended December 31, 2017, March 31, 2018 and June 30, 2018 and a cash advance of $8,100 made to the Company into an aggregate of 98,100 shares of Common Stock, valued at $1.00 per share.
Effective July 24, 2018, the Company and W. Pierce Carson executed a Restricted Stock Award Agreement pursuant to which the Company granted to Carson a restricted stock award consisting of 80,000 shares of Common Stock, valued at $1.00 per share. 20,000 of the shares will vest upon the Company completing a milestone (which was achieved), and the remaining 60,000 shares are subject to ratable vesting over an 18-month period. During the year ended December 31, 2018 the Company recognized an expense of $36,667 related to this issuance.
Other income (expenses)
Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 totaled $718,583 and $96,480, respectively, and is primarily attributable to our related party line of credit, which accrues interest at the rate of 6.0% per year, our related party notes payable which accrue interest at a weighted average interest rate of 9.46%, and convertible notes which accrue interest at a weighted average of 10% per year in addition to amortization of debt discounts of $421,083 and $12,766 during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
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Gain on change in derivative liability for the year ended December 31, 2018 totaled $224,529 compared to a loss on change in derivative liability for the year ended December 31, 2018 of $657,776. The gain and loss on derivative liability was the result of our various convertible instruments outstanding during 2018 and 2017. As of December 31, 2018 the Company does not have any instruments that are recorded as a derivative liability.
Liquidity and Capital Resources:
Our audited consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which assumes that we will be able to meet our obligations and continue our operations during the next fiscal year. Asset realization values may be significantly different from carrying values as shown in our consolidated financial statements and do not give effect to adjustments that would be necessary to the carrying values of assets and liabilities should we be unable to continue as a going concern. At December 31, 2018, we had not yet generated any significant revenues or achieved profitable operations and we have accumulated losses of $6,706,524. We expect to incur further losses in the development of our business, all of which casts substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. Our ability to continue as a going concern depends on our ability to generate future profits and/or to obtain the necessary financing to meet our obligations arising from normal business operations when they come due.
On December 31, 2018 our credit agreement with Mr. John Gibbs, a related party, provides the Company an additional $147,500 available under the credit line. Effective December 31, 2016 we amended the agreement to extend the maturity date to December 31, 2018. In April 2019 the credit facility was extended to December 31, 2019 in exchange for a fee equal to 2% of the outstanding balance. We pledged our ownership interest in our subsidiary, G+W, which owns all our ownership interests in the Silver District properties, as security for all amounts outstanding under the credit agreement.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company raised $460,000 through the sale of 460,000 common stock and warrants (“Units”) at a price of $1.00 per Unit. The expiration date of the warrants varies from August 31, 2018 to August 8, 2019. Of this raise $328,500 was purchased by directors or significant shareholders. A price protection feature of the offering provides that if at December 31, 2018, the Company has issued common stock at a price less than $1.00 per share, then additional common stock and/or warrants would be issuable to each investor shall be increased so as to reduce the Unit price to the lower price. During the year ended December 31, 2018 pursuant to the provision discussed above the Company issued 298,636 shares of common stock and committed to issue an additional 45,559 shares. This issuance was recorded as a deemed dividend and valued at $323,792.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company received net proceeds of $120,000 from the exercise of 120,000 warrants.
In October 2018 the Company sold $160,700 of Series 2018 36% Unsecured Promissory Notes (“Notes”) (“Bridge Note Offering”) to Mr. Gibbs and Mr. Power. The purchase price of the Note is equal to the principal amount of the Note. The Maturity Date of the Notes is December 31, 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2018, $10,700 was repaid to Mr. Power leaving a balance of $0. As of December 31, 2018, the portion funded by Mr. Gibbs of $150,000 remained outstanding. The note was extended until March 31, 2019 at which point it became past due and in default.
On July 26, 2018, the Company sold a 10% Convertible Promissory Note to Power Up Lending Group Ltd. (“July Power Up Note”) in a principal amount of $63,000. After deducting the investor’s discount and legal fees, net proceeds to the Company were $60,000. The Note matures on July 26, 2019 and can be converted into the Company’s common stock after 180 days from the date the Note is issued.
On August 20, 2018, the Company sold a 10% Convertible Promissory Note to Power Up Lending Group Ltd. (“August Power Up Note”) in a principal amount of $38,000. After deducting the investor’s discount and legal fees, net proceeds to the Company were $35,000. The Note matures on August 20, 2019 and can be converted into the Company’s common stock after 180 days from the date the Note is issued.
In October 2018, the Power Up Notes were repaid in full with a payment of $139,242. Of the payment, $101,000 was applied to the note balances and the remainder to interest and prepayment fees.
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In the quarter ended December 31, 2018, the Company sold $355,000 of Series 2018A 10% Unsecured Convertible Notes. The purchase price of the Note is equal to the principal amount of the Note. The Notes are convertible into shares of Common Stock at a conversion price of $1.00 during the life of the Note. The Notes will accrue interest at the rate of 10% per annum, payable quarterly in arrears. The Notes mature twelve (12) months from the Date of Issue. Maturity Date can be extended at the option of the Company for an additional one (1) year. Within thirty (30) days following the closing of the Offering, the Company has agreed to prepare and file a Registration Statement on Form S-1 registering the resale of the shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of the Notes. Of this issuance, $150,000 was sold to a related party, Mr. Gibbs. As of December 31, 2018, the balance due under these notes is $355,000 in principal and $5,692 in accrued interest.
During the year ended December 31, 2017 we sold 25,000 units consisting of common stock and warrants and realized net proceeds of $125,000. Additionally, we realized $50,000 in net proceeds from the exercise of 10,000 warrants. The proceeds were generally used to fund certain investing activities and for general working capital.
On November 1, 2017, the Company sold a 10% Convertible Promissory Note (“Auctus Note”) in a principal amount of $170,000 . After deducting the investor’s discount and legal fees, net proceeds to the Company were $153,650. The proceeds were generally used to fund certain investing activities and for general working capital.
On November 2, 2017, the Company sold a 10% Convertible Promissory Note (“EMA Note”) in the principal amount of $125,000 . After deducting the investor’s discount and legal fees, net proceeds to the Company were $113,500. The proceeds were generally used to fund certain investing activities and for general working capital.
On November 30, 2017 we entered into a series of secured promissory notes (“Series 2017 Notes”) with related parties in the aggregate amount of $1,155,000, including financing fees of $105,000 recorded as a discount to the notes. Mr. Gibbs, Dr. Carson, and Mr. Power transferred $100,000, $25,000, and $25,000, respectively, from the May 31, 2017 short term related party notes into the Series 2017 Notes. Net proceeds on the issuance after reducing for the transfers total $900,000. The proceeds were generally used to fund the purchase of the SDA Mill in Mexico. The Series 2017 Notes are secured by a pledge of all the outstanding shares of Magellan Acquisition Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary that owns the SDA Mill through Minerales Vane2.
During the year ended December 31, 2017 we issued a total of $275,000 of related party promissory notes including three short-term notes executed on May 31, 2017 with Mr. Gibbs, significant shareholder, and our two executive officers, Dr. Carson and Mr. Power in the principal amounts of $100,000, $25,000 and $25,000, respectively. The notes bear interest at 6% and matured on November 15, 2017 at which time the amounts due were transferred into the Series 2017 Notes. On June 30, 2017 we entered into an additional secured loan for advances from Mr. Power and evidenced by a $125,000 promissory note. The promissory note bears interest at 6% per annum and matured on December 31, 2017. The proceeds were generally used to fund general working capital and the purchase of the SDA Mill in Mexico.
We anticipate that additional funding will be in the form of additional loans from officers, directors or significant shareholders, or equity financing from the sale of our common stock.
Cash Flows
A summary of our cash provided by and used in operating, investing and financing activities is as follows:
Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||
2018 | 2017 | |||||||
Net cash used in operating activities | $ | (642,355 | ) | $ | (465,926 | ) | ||
Net cash used in investing activities | (65,760 | ) | (1,058,297 | ) | ||||
Net cash provided by financing activities | 741,923 | 1,525,250 | ||||||
Effect of foreign currency exchange | (29,367 | ) | (1,091 | ) | ||||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | 4,441 | (64 | ) | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents beginning of period | 421 | 485 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents end of period | $ | 4,862 | $ | 421 |
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At December 31, 2018, we had $4,862 in cash and a $3,788,972 working capital deficit. This compares to cash of $421 and a working capital deficit of $2,827,255 at December 31, 2017.
Net cash used in operating activities during the year ended December 31, 2018 was $642,355 and was mainly comprised of our $2,314,326 net loss during the period, adjusted by non-cash charges of accretion of discounts on notes payable $421,083, loss on extinguishment of debt $73,750, amortization of service contracts $119,167, depreciation $118,822, gain due to our derivative liability of $224,529, impairment loss of $323,200 and stock based compensation $36,667. In addition, it reflects a decrease in receivables from Rose Petroleum for toll milling, and prepaid expenses and other assets totaling $82,255, as well as increases in accounts payable and accrued expenses totaling $396,114, and increases in accrued interest totaling $451,029 representing accrued interest on our related party line of credit and related party and other notes payable.
Net cash used in operating activities during the year ended December 31, 2017 was $465,926 and was mainly comprised of our $2,137,959 net loss during the period, adjusted by non-cash charges of accretion of asset retirement obligation $367, accretion of discounts on notes payable $12,766, amortization of certain service contracts $52,884, depreciation $12,104, loss due to an increase in our derivative liability of $657,776, impairment loss of $345,697, and stock based compensation $303,642. In addition, it reflects a decrease in receivables from Rose Petroleum for toll milling, and prepaid expenses and other assets totaling $25,793, as well as increases in accounts payable and accrued expenses totaling $229,259, and increases in accrued interest totaling $83,331 representing accrued interest on our related party line of credit and related party and other notes payable.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, our net cash used in investing activities was $65,760 which was due to the purchase of plant, property and equipment, as well as an installment payment for acquisition of the El Dorado gold-silver property. During the year ended December 31, 2017, our net cash used in investing activities was $1,058,297, comprised mainly of $1,000,000 for the purchase of the SDA mill. Additionally during the period, we completed the second of two private placement unit financings in Rio Silver Inc. (“Rio”), associated with our mining option agreement with Rio. The private placement resulted in the Company obtaining an additional 1,250,000 units at a price of Cdn$0.06, which included one share of Rio Silver common stock and one warrant to purchase one share of Rio Silver common stock for Cdn$0.06 which expired on July 19, 2018. The cost of the units in the second private placement totaled USD $58,297.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, net cash provided by financing activities was $741,923 including proceeds from related party notes payable of $160,700 (payments of $60,700), proceeds from line of credit of $20,000 and proceeds from convertible notes to third parties and related parties of $450,000 (payments of $306,896). Mr. Power, an executive and director, advanced the Company a total of $19,300 of which $19,300 was repaid. In addition Mr. Power was repaid $101,181 as repayment for expenses paid on his personal credit card. In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2018 we completed a private placement of equity securities resulting in total proceeds of $460,000 and warrants were exercised resulting in total proceeds of $120,000.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, net cash provided by financing activities was $1,525,250 including proceeds from related
party notes payable of $1,075,000 and proceeds from convertible notes of $267,150. Mr. Power, an executive and director, advanced
the Company a total of $26,050 of which $26,050 was repaid. Also during the period, Dr. Carson, an executive and director, advanced
the Company $8,100 with no repayments. In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2017 we completed a private placement of
equity securities with two investors in which we sold a total of 25,000 units priced at $5.00 per unit, resulting in total proceeds
of $125,000. Each unit was comprised of one share of common stock, and one warrant entitling the holder to purchase one share of
common stock at a price of $5.00 per share in cash. The warrants originally expired on December 30, 2017 but were extended until
December 30, 2018.
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On July 31, 2017 a holder of 120,000 warrants exercisable at $5.00 exercised 10,000 warrants for $50,000 resulting in the issuance of 10,000 shares of the Company’s common stock. Upon exercise, the Company agreed to extend the expiration date on his remaining 10,000 warrants from December 30, 2017 to December 30, 2018.
During the year ended December 31, 2017 we issued a total of $275,000 of related party promissory notes. On May 31, 2017 we executed three short-term notes with Mr. Gibbs, significant shareholder, and our two executive officers, Dr. Carson and Mr. Power in the principal amounts of $100,000, $25,000 and $25,000, respectively. The notes bear interest at 6% and matured on November 15, 2017 at which time the amounts due were transferred into the Series 2017 Notes. In addition, on June 30, 2017 we entered into an additional secured loan for advances from Mr. Power and evidenced by a $125,000 promissory note. The promissory note bears interest at 6% per annum and matured on December 31, 2017 and has not been extended and is in technical default. The note is collateralized by our investment in Rio Silver shares and warrants.
Magellan Gold Peru (“MGP”), a former wholly owned subsidiary of Magellan Gold Corporation (“MGC”), maintains its operations in the Peruvian Sol, its functional currency. The accounts of MGP are translated to US dollars upon consolidation for reporting purposes. Amounts representing funds owed to MGC for operating advances resulted in a currency translation difference of $0 and $412, which was recorded as a component of the consolidated comprehensive loss at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Effective in 2018, the Company sold its interest in Magellan Gold Peru S.A.C. for consideration of $1.00. The Company realized a loss on disposition of $567.
Additionally, Minerales Vane 2, S.A. de C.v. (“MV2”) and Minerales Vane Operaciones (“MVO”), wholly owned subsidiaries of Magellan Acquisition Corporation (“MAC”), maintains operations in the Mexican Peso, its functional currency. The accounts of MV2 and MVO are translated to US dollars upon consolidation for reporting purposes. A translation adjustment of $29,806 and $79,052 was recorded as a component of the consolidated comprehensive loss at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
Off Balance Sheet Arrangements
We do not have and have never had any off-balance sheet arrangements.
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation
Our consolidated financial statements include our accounts and the accounts of our 100% owned subsidiaries, Gulf + Western Industries, Inc., Magellan Acquisition Corporation, Minerales Vane 2, S.A. de C.V., and Minerales VANE Operaciones. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires us to make estimates, assumptions and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of expenses during the period presented.
We make our estimate of the ultimate outcome for these items based on historical trends and other information available when the financial statements are prepared. Changes in estimates are recognized in accordance with the accounting rules for the estimate, which is typically in the period when new information becomes available. We believe that our significant estimates, assumptions and judgments are reasonable, based upon information available at the time they were made. Actual results could differ from these estimates, making it possible that a change in these estimates could occur in the near term.
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Foreign Currency Translations
The Company maintains its accounting records in US Dollars. Our operating subsidiary, Minerales Vane 2, S.A. de C.V is located in Mexico and maintains its accounting records in the Mexican Peso, which is its functional currency. Assets and liabilities of the subsidiaries are translated into the U.S. dollars at exchange rates at the balance sheet date, equity accounts are translated at historical exchange rate and revenues and expenses are translated by using the average exchange rates. Translation adjustments are reported as a separate component of other comprehensive income in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss. Foreign currency denominated transactions are translated at exchange rates approximating those ruling at the transaction dates. Exchange gains and losses are recognized in income.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
We value our financial assets and liabilities using fair value measurements. Our financial instruments primarily consist of cash and cash equivalents, investments in available-for-sale securities, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, derivative liabilities, amounts due to related parties and notes payable to related parties. Fair value is based on the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, notes payable to third parties and related parties and other amounts due to related parties approximates fair value because of the short-term nature of these financial instruments.
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Our financial instruments which potentially subject us to credit risk are our cash and cash equivalents. We maintain our cash and cash equivalents at reputable financial institutions and currently, we are not exposed to significant credit risk.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
We consider all amounts on deposit with financial institutions and highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents at the date of purchase.
Mineral Rights
We have determined that our mineral rights meet the definition of mineral rights, as defined by accounting standards, and are tangible assets. As a result, our direct costs to acquire or lease mineral rights are initially capitalized as tangible assets. Mineral rights include costs associated with: leasing or acquiring patented and unpatented mining claims; leasing mining rights including lease signature bonuses, lease rental payments and advance minimum royalty payments; and options to purchase or lease mineral properties.
If we establish proven and probable reserves for a mineral property and establish that the mineral property can be economically developed, mineral rights will be amortized over the estimated useful life of the property following the commencement of commercial production or expensed if it is determined that the mineral property has no future economic value or if the property is sold or abandoned. For mineral rights in which proven and probable reserves have not yet been established, we assess the carrying values for impairment at the end of each reporting period and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.
The net carrying value of our mineral rights represents the fair value at the time the mineral rights were acquired less accumulated depletion and any abandonment or impairment losses. Proven and probable reserves have not been established for mineral rights as of December 31, 2018. At December 31, 2018 and 2017 mineral rights totaling $0 and $323,200 were net of impairment and abandonment charges. Impairment charges were recognized for the years ended December 31, 2018 or 2017 were $323,200 and $0, respectively.
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Impairment of Long-lived Assets and Mining Rights
We continually monitor events and changes in circumstances that could indicate that our carrying amounts of long-lived assets, including mineral rights, may not be recoverable. When such events or changes in circumstances occur, we assess the recoverability of long-lived assets by determining whether the carrying value of such assets will be recovered through their undiscounted expected future cash flow. If the future undiscounted cash flow is less than the carrying amount of these assets, we recognize an impairment loss based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment is recorded at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Property and equipment is amortized on a straight-line basis over its estimated life:
· | SDA Mill – 10 years |
· | Mill equipment – 10 years |
· | Tailings Dam – 10 years |
· | Office and Warehouse – 10 years |
Goodwill
Goodwill was generated through the acquisition of the SDA Mill in the 2017 fiscal year as the total consideration paid exceeded the fair value of the net assets acquired.
The Company tests its goodwill for impairment at least annually and whenever events or circumstances change that indicate impairment may have occurred. A significant amount of judgment is involved in determining if an indicator of impairment has occurred. Such indicators may include, among others: a significant decline in the Company’s expected future cash flows; a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate; unanticipated competition; and slower growth rates. Any adverse change in these factors could have a significant impact on the recoverability of goodwill and the Company’s consolidated financial results. There was an impairment charge of $0 and $345,697 during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
Asset Retirement Obligations
The Company accounts for asset retirement obligations in accordance with ASC 410-20, Asset Retirement Obligations. ASC 410-20 requires the Company to record the fair value of an asset retirement obligation as a liability in the period in which it incurs an obligation associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets that result from the acquisition, construction, development and/or normal use of the assets. Asset retirement obligations consists of estimated final mill closure and associated ground reclamation costs to be incurred by the Company in the future once the economical life of its SDA Mill is reached. The estimated fair value of the asset retirement obligation is based on the current cost escalated at an inflation rate and discounted at a credit adjusted risk-free rate. This liability is capitalized as part of the cost of the related asset and amortized over its useful life. The liability accretes until the Company settles the obligation.
Comprehensive Income/Loss
ASC 220, Comprehensive Income, establishes standards for the reporting and display of comprehensive income/loss and its components in the financial statements. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company’s only components of comprehensive income were foreign currency translation adjustments and unrealized gain or loss on available-for-sale securities.
Notes Payable – Related Parties
Notes payable to related parties are classified as current liabilities as either the note holders have the ability to control the repayment dates of the notes or maturity dates are within one year of the reported balance sheet date.
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Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenue in accordance with ASC Topic 606, Revenue From Contracts With Customers, which was adopted on January 1, 2018 using the modified retrospective method, with no impact to the Company’s comparative financial statements. Revenues are recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to the customer in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for transferring those goods or services. Revenue is recognized based on the following five step model:
· | Identification of the contact with a customer |
· | Identification of the performance obligations in the contract |
· | Determination of the transaction price |
· | Allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract |
· | Recognition of revenue when, or as, the Company satisfies a performance obligation |
All of the Company’s revenue is currently generated from the sales of similar products. As such no further disaggregation of revenue information is provided.
Performance Obligations
Revenues are recognized when all the following criteria are satisfied: (i) a contract with an end user exists which has commercial substance; (ii) it is probable the Company will collect the amount charged to the end user; and (iii) the Company has completed its performance obligation whereby the end user has received the benefit of the services or when control of products has transferred to the end user. A contract with commercial substance exists once the Company receives and accepts a purchase order or once it enters into a contract with an end user. If collectibility is not probable, the sale is deferred and not recognized until collection is probable or payment is received. Control of products typically transfers when title and risk of ownership of the product has transferred to the customer or the services are completed. Net revenues comprise gross revenues less customer discounts and allowances, actual and expected returns. Shipping charges billed to customers are included in net sales. Various taxes on the sale of products and enrollment packages to customers are collected by the Company as an agent and remitted to the respective taxing authority. These taxes are presented on a net basis and recorded as a liability until remitted to the respective taxing authority.
Contract Costs
Costs incurred to obtain a customer contract are not material to the Company. The Company elected to apply the practical expedient to not capitalize contract costs to obtain contracts with a duration of one year or less, which are expensed and included within cost of goods and services.
Contract Liabilities
The Company may at times receive payment at the time the customer places an order or requests services. Amounts received for undelivered
product are considered a contract liability and are recorded as deferred revenue. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company
had $15,000 and $0 of deferred revenue related to unsatisfied performance obligations included with accrued liabilities.
Exploration Costs
Mineral exploration costs are expensed as incurred. When it has been determined that it is economically feasible to extract minerals and the permitting process has been initiated, exploration costs incurred to further delineate and develop the property are considered pre-commercial production costs and will be capitalized and included as mine development costs in our balance sheets.
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Income Taxes
We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and the amounts at which they are carried in the financial statements and the effect of net operating losses based upon the enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. A valuation allowance is established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company had no uncertain tax positions.
Net Loss per Common Share
We compute basic net loss per common share by dividing our net loss attributable to common shareholders by our weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Computation of diluted net loss per common share adds the weighted-average number of potential common shares outstanding to the weighted-average common shares outstanding, as calculated for basic net loss per share, except for instances in which there is a net loss. For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, potential common shares associated with convertible notes payable and outstanding warrants to purchase common stock have been omitted from the net loss per common share computation as they are anti-dilutive due to the net loss for these periods.
Stock-based Compensation
The Company determines the fair value of stock option awards granted to employees in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718 – 10 and to non-employees in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 505 – 50. Compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the value of the award and is recognized over the service period, which is usually the vesting period.
New Accounting Standards
From time to time, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) or other standards setting bodies issue new accounting pronouncements. Updates to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification are communicated through issuance of an Accounting Standards Update. Unless otherwise discussed, we believe that the impact of recently issued guidance, whether adopted or to be adopted in the future, is not expected to have a material impact on our financial statements upon adoption.
In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU No. 2016-02, "Leases: Topic 842 (ASU 2016-02)", to supersede nearly all existing lease guidance under GAAP. The guidance would require lessees to recognize most leases on their balance sheets as lease liabilities with corresponding right-of-use assets. ASU 2016-02 is effective for the Company in the first quarter of our fiscal year ending December 31, 2019 using a modified retrospective approach with the option to elect certain practical expedients. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of its pending adoption of ASU 2016-02 on its consolidated financial statements.
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards
Recently issued Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification guidance has either been implemented or is not significant to us.
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ITEM 8. | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA |
The financial statements required by this item are located in Item 15 beginning on page F-1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and are incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 9. | CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE |
None.
ITEM 9A. | CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES |
The SEC, as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, adopted rules requiring every company that files reports with the SEC to include a management report on the effectiveness of disclosure controls and procedures in its periodic reports and an annual assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting in its annual report.
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time period specified in the SEC's rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the CEO and CFO, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures. Our management necessarily applied its judgment in assessing the costs and benefits of such controls and procedures, which, by their nature, can provide only reasonable assurance regarding management's control objectives.
Our management, with the participation of our CEO, evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Report. Based upon this evaluation, our CEO concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective because of the identification of material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting which are described below.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Rule 13a-15(f). Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance to our management and board of directors regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Our internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP and our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention of overriding controls. Accordingly, even effective internal control over financial reporting can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018. In making this assessment, it used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013). Based on this evaluation, management concluded that that our internal control over financial reporting was not effective as of December 31, 2018. Our CEO concluded we have a material weakness due to lack of segregation of duties and a limited corporate governance structure. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of control deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.
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Our size has prevented us from being able to employ sufficient resources to enable us to have an adequate level of supervision and segregation of duties within our system of internal control. Therefore while there are some compensating controls in place, it is difficult to ensure effective segregation of accounting and financial reporting duties. Management reported material weaknesses related to the following:
· | Lack of segregation of duties in certain accounting and financial reporting processes including the initiation, processing, recording and approval of disbursements; | |
· | Lack of a formal review process that includes multiple levels of review. | |
· | Lack of independent directors. |
While we strive to segregate duties as much as practicable, there is an insufficient volume of transactions at this point in time to justify additional full time staff. We believe that this is typical in many exploration stage companies. We may not be able to fully remediate the material weakness until we commence mining operations at which time we would expect to hire more staff. We will continue to monitor and assess the costs and benefits of additional staffing.
This Annual Report does not include an attestation report of our registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management's report was not subject to attestation by our registered public accounting firm pursuant to the SEC rules that permit us to provide only management's report in this Annual Report.
Conclusion Regarding the Effectiveness of Disclosure Controls and Procedures:
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including Mr. Carson, our President, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Management necessarily applied its judgment in assessing the costs and benefits of such controls and procedures, which, by their nature, can provide only reasonable assurance regarding management’s control objectives.
Our management, including our CFO Mr. Martinez, evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on this evaluation, Mr. Martinez concluded that the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of such date to provide assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the SEC, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding disclosures.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2018, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 9B. | OTHER INFORMATION |
None.
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ITEM 10. | DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE |
Directors and Executive Officers
Our current executive officers and directors are:
Name | Age | Position |
John C. Power | 56 | Director |
W. Pierce Carson | 76 | President, CEO and Director |
Michael P. Martinez | 49 | CFO |
W. Pierce Carson has served as our President & CEO since June 1, 2016. Mr. Carson has over 40 years of experience in the mining industry and has managed the discovery, financing, development and operation of precious metals, base metals and industrial minerals properties in the United States, Australia, Africa and Papua New Guinea. He has been responsible for or closely involved with a number of mineral deposits that have been developed into mines. Mr. Carson held the positions of Senior Geologist, Overseas Mineral Evaluation, and Exploration Manager, Australia for Exxon Minerals Company; Manager of Precious Metals Exploration, North America for Kennecott Copper Corporation; President and Director of Mining & Exploration Operations in Australia, Papua New Guinea, USA, Canada and Mexico for Nord Pacific Ltd.; President and Vice-President of Exploration for Nord Resources Corporation; and Chief Executive Officer for Santa Fe Gold Corporation. Mr. Carson holds a PhD in Economic and Structural Geology and an MS in Ore Deposits from Stanford University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Geology from Princeton University.
John C. Power served as President, CFO, Secretary and director from our inception in September 2010 until June 1, 2016 when Dr. Carson became President & CEO. Mr. Power continued to serve as CFO and Secretary until September 2017 when Mr. Martinez was engaged to fulfill those roles. Mr. Power continues to serve as a director.
Mr. Power also serves as a director of Athena Silver Corporation since its inception in December 2003 and has served as Athena’s President from December 2005 to December 2007 and from January 2009 to the present and has served as Athena’s Secretary since January 2007.
Mr. Power is also a co-managing member since 2011 of Silver Saddle Resources, LLC a private company that owns mining claims in Nevada.
From March 2010 to present, Mr. Power has served as co-Managing Member of Ryan Air Exposition, LLC, a private California holding company that invests in antique airplanes. Mr. Power served as President and director of Alta California Broadcasting, Inc., which operated radio stations, from December 1993 to March 2007; and President and director of Four Rivers Broadcasting, Inc., also a radio broadcaster, from May 1997 to March 2005 and Vice President from March 2005 until December 2013. Mr. Power also has served as Co-Managing Member of Wyoming Resorts, LLC, which owns and operates an historic hotel in Thermopolis, Wyoming, since June 1997; and Mr. Power has served as President of Power Curve, Inc., a private investment company, since 1986. Mr. Power has also been the managing member of Best of Sea Ranch, LLC since December 2004 which operated through a joint venture a vacation home rental business in The Sea Ranch California. Mr. Power has been a general partner of Power Vacaville, LP a real estate investment firm since January 2008. Mr. Power also has served as the vice-president and director of The Tide Community Broadcasting, Inc. since July 2012.
From September 2008 to March 2012, Mr. Power served as an officer and director of Hungry Hunter, Inc., a private California-based restaurant enterprise. From March 2008 until February 2010, Mr. Power served as a director of Reserve Energy Corporation, a small private oil and gas exploration and production company; and was Managing Member of Montana Resorts, LLC, which is a holding company for Yellowstone Gateway Resorts, LLC, from May 2002 until May 2008; and was Managing Member of Yellowstone Gateway Resorts, LLC, which owned and operated the Gallatin Gateway Inn, from May 2002 until May 2008. On November 16, 2004, Yellowstone Gateway Resorts, LLC filed a voluntary petition in bankruptcy under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in response to an adverse arbitration award in favor of a former employee. Yellowstone Gateway Resorts, LLC was successfully reorganized under Chapter 11.
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Mr. Power attended, but did not receive a degree from, Occidental College and University of California at Davis.
Michael P. Martinez has served as the Company’ Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer since September 18, 2017.
He also is employed as the Chief Financial Officer for a company that operates in heavy construction including excavation and earthwork. Mr. Martinez served as Financial Reporting Manager at Ernest Healthcare which operates twenty-six hospitals in 11 states for inpatient rehabilitation and long-term acute care. At Ernest Healthcare Mr. Martinez was responsible for monitoring and providing oversight of financial reporting requirements and covenant compliance, and consolidation of financial statements for the twenty-six hospitals. Mr. Martinez was also a principal of Martinez Financial Group, providing merchant banking services including capital formation and corporate finance advisory functions for commercial enterprises.
Mr. Martinez graduated Cum Laude from the University of Arizona with a B.S. in Business Administration. He is a certified public accountant and a member of the New Mexico Society of CPA’s
Mr. Martinez was paid $11,000 for the initial 3-month period of consultancy services. Thereafter, Mr. Martinez’s status may change from a consultant to an employee at the sole discretion of the Company. He will receive no additional compensation for his service as Secretary and Treasurer of the Company.
Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings
During the last 10 years, none of our directors or officers has:
a. | had any bankruptcy petition filed by or against any business of which such person was a general partner or executive officer either at the time of the bankruptcy or within two years prior to that time; |
b. | been convicted in a criminal proceeding or subject to a pending criminal proceeding; |
c. | been subject to any order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction, permanently or temporarily enjoining, barring, suspending or otherwise limiting his involvement in any type of business, securities or banking activities; or |
d. | been found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action, the Commission or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to have violated a federal or state securities or commodities law, and the judgment has not been reversed, suspended, or vacated. |
Family Relationships
No family relationships exist among our directors. Additionally, there do not exist any arrangements or understandings between any director and any other person pursuant to which any director was elected as such.
Conflicts of Interest
Athena Silver Corporation is a company under common control. Mr. Power is a director and is also a director and CEO of Athena. Mr. Power and Mr. Gibbs are significant investors in both Magellan and Athena.
Silver Saddle Resources, LLC (“Silver Saddle”) is a private company under common control. Mr. Power and Mr. Gibbs are significant investors and managing members of Silver Saddle.
Magellan, Athena and Silver Saddle are exploration stage companies and each is involved in the business of acquisition and exploration of mineral resources.
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The existence of common ownership and common management could result in significantly different operating results or financial position from those that could have resulted had Magellan, Athena and Silver Saddle been autonomous. In addition, the common ownership could result in significant conflicts of interest both in terms of the allocation of working capital as well as under the doctrine of corporate opportunity, inasmuch as all three entities are engaged in mineral exploration in the United States. Messr. Power and Gibbs have not adopted any policy or guidelines to mitigate the potential adverse effects of their conflicting interests between and among, Magellan, Athena and Silver Saddle.
While the foregoing may mitigate the conflicts of interest inherent in the interlocking interests, it will not eliminate all potential future conflicts. Investors in Magellan should be cognizant that the interests of Magellan may, in the future, be in conflict with the other activities of Magellan’s control persons.
Director Independence
Our common stock is listed on the OTC.QB of the OTC Markets Group, Inc. inter-dealer quotation systems, which does not have director independence requirements. Nevertheless, for purposes of determining director independence, we have applied the definition set forth in NASDAQ Rule 4200(a)(15). Our two directors are both officers of the corporation and are not considered independent.
Board Meetings
During the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2018, our Board members engaged in frequent informal discussions; and all Board actions have been undertaken by unanimous written consent.
Committees of the Board of Directors
We currently do not have standing audit, compensation or nominating committees of the Board of Directors. We plan to form audit, compensation and nominating committees when it is necessary to do so to comply with federal securities laws or to meet listing requirements of a stock exchange or the Nasdaq Capital Market.
Compliance with Section 16(a), Beneficial Ownership
Under the Securities Laws of the United States, our directors, executive (and certain other) officers, and any persons holding more than ten percent (10%) of our common stock during any part of our most recent fiscal year are required to report their ownership of common stock and any changes in that ownership to the SEC. Specific due dates for these reports have been established and we are required to report in this Report any failure to file by these dates. During the year ended December 31, 2018, all of these filing requirements were satisfied by our officers, directors, and ten-percent holders except that Mr. Gibbs failed to file three reports covering seven transactions in a timely fashion, Mr. Power failed to file two reports covering three transactions in a timely fashion and Mr. Carson failed to file one report covering two transactions in a timely. In making these statements, we have relied on the written representation of our directors and officers or copies of the reports that they have filed with the Commission.
Code of Ethics
We have adopted a Code of Ethics that apples to, among other persons, our company’s principal executive officer, as well as persons performing similar functions. As adopted, our Code of Ethics sets forth written guidelines to promote:
· | honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships; | |
· | full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in all reports and documents that we file with, or submit to, the SEC and in other public communications made by us that are within the executive officer’s area of responsibility; | |
· | compliance with applicable governmental laws, rules and regulations; | |
· | the prompt internal reporting of violations of the Code; and | |
· | accountability for adherence to the Code. |
Our Code of Ethics is on file with the SEC. We will provide a copy of the Code of Ethics to any person without charge, upon request. Requests can be sent to: Magellan Gold Corporation, 500 Marquette Avenue NW, Ste. 1200, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87102.
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ITEM 11. | EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION |
Director Compensation
Our directors receive no compensation for their services as director.
Executive Compensation
The following table sets forth all compensation paid to our Named Executive Officers for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017:
Summary compensation table
Name and Principal Position | Year | Salary ($) | Bonus ($) | Stock Awards ($) | Options Awards ($) | Non equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($) | Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings ($) | All Other Compensation ($) | Total ($) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
John C. Power, Former President | 2018 2017 | 0 0 | 0 0 | 0 0 | 0 39,901 | 0 0 | 0 0 | 0 20,000 | 0 59,901 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
W. Pierce Carson, CEO & President | 2018 2017 | 120,000 120,000 | 0 0 | 36,667 160,000 | 0 79,801 | 0 0 | 0 0 | 0 0 | 156,667 359,801 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Michael P. Martinez, CFO | 2018 2017 (partial) | 40,000 0
| 0 0
| 0 0
| 0 9,975 | 0 0
| 0 0
| 0 11,000 | 40,000 20,975 |
(1) | When he was first engaged as President, CEO and Director of G+W in June 2015, W. Pierce Carson was granted shares of G+W representing 15% of the total issued and outstanding shares of G+W. | |
In July 2016, we completed a reverse triangular merger pursuant to which a newly formed merger subsidiary was merged into Gulf + Western, and the 15% equity interest in Gulf + Western owned by Mr. Carson was converted into 172,479 shares of Magellan common stock. As a result of the merger, Gulf + Western became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Magellan. | ||
Effective June 1, 2016, we entered into an Employment Agreement with Mr. Carson and engaged his services as President and CEO of Magellan for an initial term of one year. Under the terms of the Employment Agreement, Mr. Carson is entitled to a salary of $6,667 per month for the first three months, and $10,000 per month for the following nine months. If the Company is unable to pay the salary, the Company has the right to satisfy its obligation with shares of common stock. | ||
The initial term of the agreement covered the period from June 1, 2016 to May 31, 2017. On June 1, 2017, Dr. Carson and the Company agreed to extend the term of the agreement to May 31, 2018, with all terms of the original agreement remaining unchanged. On June 1, 2018, Dr. Carson and the Company agreed to extend the term of the agreement to May 31, 2019, with all terms of the original agreement remaining unchanged. |
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Dr. Carson shall have the right to voluntarily terminate his employment with Magellan during the term. To effect such voluntary termination, Dr. Carson shall provide Magellan at least 60 days advanced written notice of such termination. Upon termination, Dr. Carson shall be paid his base salary through the date of termination, including any amount that may have been deferred and accrued. | ||
On October 26, 2017, Dr. Carson agreed to waive payment of accrued but unpaid salary obligations from June 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017 in the aggregate amount of $150,000, including $60,000 earned in 2016. The waiver of accrued wages is recorded as a capital contribution to the Company. Dr. Carson was subsequently issued 80,000 shares of the Company’s restricted common stock.
Effective July 24, 2018, the Company and W. Pierce Carson, President, executed an Agreement to Convert Debt, pursuant to which Carson agreed to convert $90,000 in accrued but unpaid executive compensation for the fiscal quarters ended December 31, 2017, March 31, 2018 and June 30, 2018 and a cash advance of $8,100 made to the Company into an aggregate of 98,100 shares of Common Stock, valued at $1.00 per share. The fair value of the shares issued equaled to the amount of debt settled which resulted in no gain or loss.
Effective July 24, 2018, the Company and W. Pierce Carson executed a Restricted Stock Award Agreement pursuant to which the Company granted to Carson a restricted stock award consisting of 80,000 shares of Common Stock, valued at $1.00 per share. 20,000 of the shares will vest upon the Company completing a milestone (which was achieved), and the remaining 60,000 shares are subject to ratable vesting over an 18-month period. During the year ended December 31, 2018 the Company recognized an expense of $36,667 related to this issuance. |
(2) | We entered into a consulting agreement with Mr. Power at the rate of $30,000 per year for his part-time service as our CFO. Mr. Power resigned as our CFO on August 31, 2017 and no longer receives consulting fees. |
Employment Agreements
Gulf + Western entered into an employment agreement with W. Pierce Carson to serve as President and CEO for a period of one year ending May 31, 2016. Mr. Carson’s compensation was in the form of a transfer of a 15% equity interest in Gulf + Western.
Effective June 1, 2016, we entered into an Employment Agreement with Mr. Carson and engaged his services as President and CEO of Magellan for an initial term of one year. Under the terms of the Employment Agreement, Mr. Carson was entitled to a salary of $6,667 per month for the first three months, and $10,000 per month for the following nine months. Effective June 1, 2017, the Employment Agreement was extended for an additional year at a salary of $10,000 per month. If the Company is unable to pay the salary, the Company has the right to satisfy its obligation with shares of common stock.
The initial term of the agreement covered the period from June 1, 2016 to May 31, 2017. On June 1, 2018, Dr. Carson and the Company agreed to extend the term of the agreement to May 31, 2019 with all terms of the original agreement remaining unchanged.
Dr. Carson shall have the right to voluntarily terminate his employment with Magellan during the term. To effect such voluntary termination, Dr. Carson shall provide Magellan at least 60 days advanced written notice of such termination. Upon termination, Dr. Carson shall be paid his base salary through the date of termination, including any amount that may have been deferred and accrued.
On October 26, 2017, Dr. Carson agreed to waive payment of accrued but unpaid salary obligations from June 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017 in the aggregate amount of $150,000. The waiver of accrued wages was recorded as a capital contribution to the Company. Dr. Carson was subsequently issued 80,000 shares of the Company’s restricted common stock.
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At December 31, 2017 a total of $30,000 and $2,796 of salary and associated payroll tax obligations, respectively, is accrued in connection with the agreement and included in accrued liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
At December 31, 2018 a total of $60,000 and $13,870 of salary and associated payroll tax obligations, respectively, is accrued in connection with the agreement and included in accrued liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
2017 Equity Incentive Plan
We have not adopted any equity compensation or stock option plans, except as follows:
The Board of Directors of the Company concluded, in order to attract and hire key technical personnel and management as our Company grows, it will be necessary to offer option packages in order to compete effectively with other companies seeking the support of these highly qualified individuals. After careful consideration, the Board recommended the approval of the Company’s 2017 Equity Incentive Plan as being in the best interests of Stockholders.
Effective September 1, 2017, the 2017 Equity Incentive Plan was approved by written consent of stockholders holding 75% of the Company’s outstanding common stock, and was adopted by the Board of Directors. The Company is authorized to grant rights to acquire up to a maximum of 200,000 shares of common stock under the Plan. The Plan is authorized to grant incentive stock options that qualify under Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
The 2017 Plan provides for the grant of (1) both incentive and nonstatutory stock options, (2) stock bonuses, (3) rights to purchase restricted stock and (4) stock appreciation rights (collectively, "Stock Awards"). Incentive stock options granted under the 2017 Plan are intended to qualify as "incentive stock options" within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code. Nonstatutory stock options granted under the 2017 Plan are intended not to qualify as incentive stock options under the Code.
As of the date of this prospectus, there have been no grants made under the Plan.
Indemnification of Directors and Officers
Nevada Revised Statutes provide that a corporation may indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, except an action by or in the right of the corporation, by reason of the fact that he is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against expenses, including attorneys' fees, judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him in connection with the action, suit or proceeding if he acted in good faith and in a manner which he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful.
Nevada Revised Statutes also provide that to the extent that a director, officer, employee or agent of a corporation has been successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of any action, suit or proceeding, or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, the corporation shall indemnify him against expenses, including attorneys' fees, actually and reasonably incurred by him in connection with the defense.
Our Articles of Incorporation authorize us to indemnify our directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted under Nevada Revised Statutes. Our bylaws set forth the procedures that must be followed in order for directors and officers to receive indemnity payments from us.
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ITEM 12. | SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS |
The following table sets forth information with respect to beneficial ownership of our common stock by:
* | each person who beneficially owns more than 5% of our common stock; | |
* | each of our executive officers named in the Management section; | |
* | each of our directors; and | |
* | all executive officers and directors as a group. |
The following table shows the number of shares owned and the percentage of outstanding common stock owned as of March 31, 2019. Each person has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares shown, except as noted.
Name and Address of Beneficial Owner(1) | Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership(2) | Ownership as a Percentage of Outstanding Common Shares(3) | ||||||
John Gibbs 807 Wood N Creek Ardmore, OK 73041 |
1,490,743 | (4) | 41.73% | |||||
John C. Power | 283,019 | (5) | 8.22% | |||||
W. Pierce Carson | 470,580 | (6) | 13.36% | |||||
Michael P. Martinez | 19,118 | (7) | nil | |||||
All officers and directors as a group (three persons) |
772,717 | 21.82% |
(1) | Unless otherwise stated, address is 500 Marquette Avenue NW, Ste. 1200, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87102. |
(2) | Under SEC Rules, we include in the number of shares owned by each person, the number of shares issuable under outstanding options or warrants if those options or warrants are exercisable within 60 days of the date of this Annual Report. In calculating percentage ownership, we calculate the ownership of each person who owns exercisable options by adding (i) the number of exercisable options for that person only to (ii) the number of total shares outstanding and dividing that result into (iii) the total number of shares and exercisable options owned by that person. |
(3) | Shares and percentages beneficially owned are based upon 3,422,003 shares outstanding on March 31, 2019. |
(4) |
Includes 1,330,443 shares owned individually, a Promissory Note convertible into 150,000 shares of Common Stock (excluding any future accrued interest that may be convertible) and 10,330 shares owned by Tri Power Resources, Inc., controlled by Mr. Gibbs.
|
(5) | Includes options exercisable to purchase 20,000 shares at $2.00 per share. |
(6) | Includes options exercisable to purchase 40,000 shares at $2.00 per share, and 60,000 shares under a restricted stock award subject to future vesting. |
(7) | Includes options exercisable to purchase 5,000 shares at $2.00 per share. |
64 |
ITEM 13. | CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE |
Except as disclosed herein, there have been no transactions or proposed transactions in which the amount involved exceeds the lesser of $120,000 or one percent of the average of our total assets at year-end for the last two completed fiscal years in which any of our directors, executive officers or beneficial holders of more than 5% of the outstanding shares of our common stock, or any of their respective relatives, spouses, associates or affiliates, has had or will have any direct or material indirect interest.
Conflicts of Interests
Athena Silver Corporation (“Athena”) is a company under common control. Mr. Power is also a director and CEO of Athena. Mr. Gibbs is a significant investor in both Magellan and Athena. Magellan and Athena are both exploration stage companies involved in the business of acquisition and exploration of mineral resources.
Silver Saddle Resources, LLC is also a company under common control. Mr. Power and Mr. Gibbs are significant investors and managing members of Silver Saddle. Magellan and Silver Saddle are both exploration stage companies involved in the business of acquisition and exploration of mineral resources.
The existence of common ownership and common management could result in significantly different operating results or financial position from those that could have resulted had Magellan, Athena and Silver Saddle been autonomous.
Management Fees
The Company previously maintained a month-to-month management agreement with Mr. Power requiring a monthly payment, in advance, of $2,500 as consideration for his services as CFO to Magellan. Effective August 31, 2017, Mr. Power resigned as CFO and Secretary of the Company and was replaced by Michael P. Martinez on September 18, 2017 to serve as CFO, Secretary and Treasurer. Mr. Power continues to serve as a member of the Board of Directors.
Management fees to Mr. Power for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, are $0 and $20,000, respectively. These fees are included in general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, $27,500 and $27,500 of the fees had not been paid and are included in accrued liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Management fees to Mr. Martinez for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, are $40,000 and $0, respectively. These fees are included in general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, $28,000 and $0 of the fees had not been paid and are included in accounts payable on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Accrued Interest - Related Parties
Accrued interest due to related parties is included in our consolidated balance sheets as follows:
December 31, 2018 | December 31, 2017 | |||||||
Accrued interest payable - Mr. Gibbs | $ | 340,218 | $ | 221,103 | ||||
Accrued interest payable - Mr. Power | 76,504 | 16,562 | ||||||
Accrued interest payable - Dr. Carson | 3,736 | 986 | ||||||
$ | 420,458 | $ | 238,651 |
65 |
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we paid a total of $12,357 to Mr. Power representing unpaid accrued interest on notes payable. During the year ended December 31, 2017, we paid a total of $382 to Mr. Power representing unpaid accrued interest on notes payable.
Advances Payable – Related Party
We borrowed and repaid non-interest bearing advances from/to related parties as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 2018 | ||||||||
Advances | Repayments/Conversion | |||||||
Mr. Power | $ | 19,300 | $ | (19,300 | ) | |||
Mr. Carson | – | (8,100 | ) | |||||
Totals | $ | 19,300 | $ | (27,400 | ) |
Year Ended December 31, 2017 | ||||||||
Advances | Repayments | |||||||
Mr. Power | $ | 26,050 | $ | 26,050 | ||||
Mr. Carson | 8,100 | – | ||||||
Totals | $ | 34,150 | $ | 26,050 |
In addition to the above, during the year ended December 31, 2017, Mr. Power loaned the Company $25,000 in a short term note that was subsequently transferred into the Series 2017 Notes. Mr. Power’s used personal credit cards during the year ended December 31, 2018 to fund Company operations. During the year ended December 31, 2018 a total of $125,945 was paid for on these credit cards and the Company repaid Mr. Power $101,181 resulting in a balance of $24,764 remained outstanding and is included in Advances payable, related party.
Notes Payable – Related Parties
In August 2011, we entered into an unsecured loan from John Power, the Company’s Director, evidenced by a $20,000 promissory note. The promissory note bears interest at 6% per annum and is payable on demand with thirty days’ notice from the lender. During 2014, the Company made payments totaling $5,000 to pay down the principal balance of the note. Effective December 31, 2017, the interest rate on the note increased to 12% per annum. At both December 31, 2018 and 2017, the note balance was $15,000. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, accrued interest totaling $1,800 and $1,576, respectively, is included in Accrued interest – related parties on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
In January 2014, we entered into an additional unsecured loan from Mr. Power, evidenced by a $50,000 promissory note. The promissory note bears interest at 6.75% per annum and is payable on demand with thirty days’ notice from the lender. Effective December 31, 2017, the interest rate on the note increased to 12% per annum. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, accrued interest totaling $6,000 and $6,249, respectively, is included in Accrued interest – related parties on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. At both December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the note balance was $50,000.
On May 31, 2017 we entered into three short-term notes with Mr. Gibbs, Dr. Carson and Mr. Power in the principal amounts of $100,000, $25,000 and $25,000, respectively. The notes bear interest at 6% and matured on November 15, 2017. A total of $3,760 and $4,512 of interest is accrued on these notes as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. The note balances were subsequently rolled into the Series 2017 Notes.
On June 30, 2017 we entered into an additional secured loan for advances from Mr. Power and evidenced by a $125,000 promissory note. The promissory note bears interest at 6% per annum and matured on December 31, 2017 and is currently in default. Effective December 31, 2017, the interest rate on the note increased to 12% per annum. The note is collateralized by our investment in Rio Silver shares and warrants. At both December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the note balance was $125,000. A total of $15,000 and $3,781 of interest is accrued on these notes as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively and is included in Accrued interest – related parties on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
66 |
On November 30, 2017 we entered into a series of secured promissory notes (“Series 2017 Notes”) with both related and unrelated parties in the aggregate amount of $1,155,000, including financing fees of $105,000 recorded as a discount to the notes.
Net proceeds on the issuance after reducing for the transfers previously listed total $900,000. The notes are secured by a stock pledge agreement covering 100% of the outstanding common stock of Magellan Acquisition Corporation, bear interest at 10% and mature on December 31, 2018, and were subsequently extended to December 31, 2019.
The total of portion of the Series 2017 Notes from related parties totaled $1,045,000, including financing fees of $95,000 recorded as discount to the notes. Mr. Gibbs, Dr. Carson, and Mr. Power transferred $100,000, $25,000, and $25,000, respectively, from the May 31, 2017 short term related party notes into the Series 2017 Notes. As of December 31, 2018 the balance on the Series 2017 Notes from related parties, net of unamortized discount of $0, is $1,045,000 with accrued interest of $113,375. As of December 31, 2017, the balance on the Series 2017 Notes from related parties, net of unamortized discount of $87,563, is $957,437 with accrued interest of $8,875.
During the year ended December 31, 2018 $87,563 of debt discount related to the above notes was fully amortized to interest expense.
During the quarter ended December 31, 2018, Mr. Gibbs participated in the Series 2018A 10% Unsecured Convertible Note for $150,000. See below for further disclosure.
Bridge Note Offering
In October 2018 the Company sold $160,700 of Series 2018 36% Unsecured Promissory Notes (“Notes”) (“Bridge Note Offering”) to Mr. Gibbs and Mr. Power. The purchase price of the Note is equal to the principal amount of the Note. The Maturity Date of the Notes is December 31, 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2018, $10,700 was repaid to Mr. Power leaving a balance of $0. As of December 31, 2018, the portion funded by Mr. Gibbs of $150,000 remained outstanding. The note was extended until March 31, 2019 at which point it became past due and in default.
Deferred Compensation
On June 1, 2016 we executed an employment agreement with Dr. Carson in which he assumed the positions of President and Chief Executive Officer of Magellan Gold Corporation. The agreement also provided that Dr. Carson be appointed a Director of Magellan Gold Corporation, and effective June 30, 2016, Dr. Carson was appointed a Director of Magellan. The term of the agreement covered the period from June 1, 2016 to May 31, 2017 and is subject to annual renewal. The agreement has subsequently been renewed each year and is currently effective from June 1, 2018 to May 31, 2019, with all terms of the original agreement remaining unchanged.
During the term of the agreement, Magellan agreed to pay Dr. Carson a base salary in equal semi-monthly installments less required withholding and other applicable taxes. Dr. Carson’s salary was set at $6,667 per month during the three-month period from June 1, 2016 through August 31, 2016, and thereafter at $10,000 per month. Until such time as Magellan is properly funded, Magellan may defer and accrue salary owed. If not properly funded before the end of the term, Magellan may at its option issue shares of Magellan common stock as settlement of the accrued salary liability.
Dr. Carson shall have the right to voluntarily terminate his employment with Magellan during the term. To effect such voluntary termination, Dr. Carson shall provide Magellan at least 60 days advanced written notice of such termination. Upon termination, Dr. Carson shall be paid his base salary through the date of termination, including any amount that may have been deferred and accrued.
67 |
At December 31, 2018 a total of $60,000 and $13,870 of salary and associated payroll tax obligations, respectively, is accrued in connection with the agreement and included in accrued liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
At December 31, 2017 a total of $30,000 and $2,796 of salary and associated payroll tax obligations, respectively, is accrued in connection with the agreement and included in accrued liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Director Independence
Our common stock is not listed on a national securities exchange or inter-dealer quotation system. Under NASDAQ Rule 5605(a)(2) and Item 407(a) of Regulation S-K, a director is not considered to be independent if he or she is also an executive officer of the corporation. Our director is considered an executive officer under Rule 3b-7 of the Exchange Act. Therefore, our director is not independent.
As a result of our limited operating history and minimal resources, we believe that we will have difficulty in attracting independent directors. In addition, we would likely be required to obtain directors’ and officers’ insurance coverage in order to attract and retain independent directors. We believe that the costs associated with maintaining such insurance is prohibitive at this time.
ITEM 14. | PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES |
We understand the need for our principal accountants to maintain objectivity and independence in their audit of our financial statements. To minimize relationships that could appear to impair the objectivity of our principal accountants, our Board of Directors has restricted the non-audit services that our principal accountants may provide to us primarily to tax services and audit-related services. We are only to obtain non-audit services from our principal accountants when the services offered by our principal accountants are more effective or economical than services available from other service providers, and, to the extent possible, only after competitive bidding. These determinations are among the key practices adopted by the Board of Directors. Our Board has adopted policies and procedures for pre-approving work performed by our principal accountants.
The aggregate fees billed for the fiscal years 2018 and 2017 for professional services rendered by our principal accountants for the audit of our annual financial statements and review of the financial statements included in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and services that are normally provided by our accountants in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for these fiscal periods were as follows:
2018 | 2017 | |||||||
Audit fees - audit of annual financial statements and review of financial statements included in our quarterly reports, services normally provided by the accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings | $ | 103,800 | $ | 31,000 | ||||
Audit-related fees - related to the performance of audit or review of financial statements not reported under "audit fees" | 0 | 0 | ||||||
Tax fees - tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning | 0 | 0 | ||||||
All other fees - services provided by our principal accountants other than those identified above | 0 | 0 | ||||||
Total fees | $ | 103,800 | $ | 31,000 |
After careful consideration, the Board of Directors has determined that payment of the audit fees is in conformance with the independent status of our principal independent accountants.
68 |
ITEM 15 | EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES |
69 |
(1) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Form S-1 as filed with the Commission on May 18, 2011. |
(2) | Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed with the Commission on August 25, 2011. |
(3) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed with the Commission on November 14, 2011. |
(4) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on February 7, 2012. |
(5) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K/A-1 as filed with the Commission on March 29, 2012. |
(6) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on March 30, 2012. |
(7) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the Commission on March 30, 2012. |
(8) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on August 30, 2012. |
(9) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on February 4, 2013. |
70 |
(10) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on February 4, 2013. |
(11) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on August 23, 2013. |
(12) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on January 2, 2014. |
(13) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on April 29, 2014. |
(14) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on October 2, 2014. |
(15) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on February 3, 2015. |
(16) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on June 11, 2015. |
(17) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on June 2, 2016. |
(18) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on July 27, 2016. |
(19) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on October 27, 2016. |
(20) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on March 7, 2017. |
(21) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on June 20, 2017. |
(22) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on July 21, 2017. |
(23) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on August 1, 2017. |
(24) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on September 12, 2017. |
(25) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on October 11, 2017. |
(26) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on October 18, 2017. |
(27) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on October 30, 2017. |
(28) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on November 6, 2017. |
(29) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on November 7, 2017. |
(30) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on November 8, 2017. |
(31) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on December 6, 2017. |
(32) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on January 10, 2018. |
(33) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K/A as filed with the Commission on April 24, 2018. |
(34) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on June 19, 2018. |
(35) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on June 19, 2018. |
(36) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on July 30, 2018. |
(37) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on July 30, 2018. | |
(38) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K/A as filed with the Commission on August 1, 2018. |
(39) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K/A as filed with the Commission on August 1, 2018. |
(40) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on August 20, 2018. |
(41) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on August 20, 2018. |
(42) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on August 24, 2018. |
(43) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on August 24, 2018. |
(44) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on August 24, 2018. |
(45) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on August 24, 2018. |
(46) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on September 5, 2018. |
(47) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on September 25, 2018. |
(48) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on November 6, 2018. |
(49) | Incorporated by reference as an Exhibit to Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on November 6, 2018. |
* | Filed herewith. |
** | Furnished, not filed. |
71 |
MAGELLAN GOLD CORPORATION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
F-1 |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
Magellan Gold Corporation
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Magellan Gold Corporation and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”) as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss, shareholders’ deficit, and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Going Concern Matter
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 1 to the financial statements, the Company has suffered recurring losses from operations and has a net capital deficiency that raises substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern. Management's plans in regard to these matters are also described in Note 1. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) ("PCAOB") and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ MaloneBailey, LLP
www.malonebailey.com
We have served as the Company's auditor since 2011.
Houston, Texas
April 12, 2019
F-2 |
MAGELLAN GOLD CORPORATION
December 31, 2018 | December 31, 2017 | |||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
Current Assets | ||||||||
Cash | $ | 4,862 | $ | 421 | ||||
Due from Rose Petroleum | – | 27,147 | ||||||
Investment in Rio Silver equities | 70,609 | 109,532 | ||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 44,746 | 121,283 | ||||||
Total current assets | 120,217 | 258,383 | ||||||
Mineral rights, net of impairment | 48,164 | 323,200 | ||||||
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $130,644 and $11,822, respectively | 1,054,381 | 1,155,811 | ||||||
Other Assets: | ||||||||
Prepaid expenses and other assets | 301,158 | 216,151 | ||||||
Total assets | $ | 1,523,920 | $ | 1,953,545 | ||||
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' DEFICIT | ||||||||
Current liabilities: | ||||||||
Accounts payable | 540,593 | 270,424 | ||||||
Accrued liabilities | 206,948 | 60,296 | ||||||
Line of credit - related party | 852,500 | 932,500 | ||||||
Notes payable - related parties | 1,385,000 | 1,197,437 | ||||||
Notes payable | 110,000 | 100,783 | ||||||
Convertible note payable - related party | 150,000 | – | ||||||
Convertible notes payable | 205,000 | 271,697 | ||||||
Accrued interest - related parties | 420,458 | 238,651 | ||||||
Accrued interest | 13,926 | 5,750 | ||||||
Advances payable, related party | 24,764 | 8,100 | ||||||
Total current liabilities | 3,909,189 | 3,085,638 | ||||||
Long term liabilities: | ||||||||
Asset retirement obligation | 116,149 | 115,914 | ||||||
Total liabilities | 4,025,338 | 3,201,552 | ||||||
Shareholders' deficit: | ||||||||
Preferred shares, $.001 par value, 25,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding | – | – | ||||||
Common shares - $0.001 par value; 1,000,000,000 shares authorized, 3,264,752 and 1,911,628 shares issued and outstanding, respectively | 3,265 | 1,912 | ||||||
Additional paid-in capital | 4,310,699 | 2,897,539 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (108,858 | ) | (87,570 | ) | ||||
Accumulated deficit | (6,706,524 | ) | (4,059,888 | ) | ||||
Shareholders' deficit | (2,501,418 | ) | (1,248,007 | ) | ||||
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit | $ | 1,523,920 | $ | 1,953,545 |
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
F-3 |
MAGELLAN GOLD CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
Years ended December 31, | ||||||||
2018 | 2017 | |||||||
Revenues, net | $ | 123,955 | $ | – | ||||
Operating costs and expenses: | ||||||||
Cost of sales | 437,711 | – | ||||||
Exploration costs | 20,035 | 61,233 | ||||||
General and administrative expenses | 886,770 | 964,302 | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 118,822 | 12,104 | ||||||
Accretion of asset retirement obligation | – | 367 | ||||||
Impairment loss | 323,200 | 345,697 | ||||||
Total operating costs and expenses | 1,786,538 | 1,383,703 | ||||||
Operating loss | (1,662,583 | ) | (1,383,703 | ) | ||||
Other income (expense): | ||||||||
Interest expense | (718,583 | ) | (96,480 | ) | ||||
Foreign currency exchange gain | 3,128 | – | ||||||
Loss on extinguishment of debt | (73,250 | ) | – | |||||
Unrealized gain (loss) on equity securities | (38,923 | ) | – | |||||
Other expenses | (48,644 | ) | – | |||||
Gain (loss) on change in derivative liability | 224,529 | (657,776 | ) | |||||
Total other income (expense) | (651,743 | ) | (754,256 | ) | ||||
Net loss | (2,314,326 | ) | (2,137,959 | ) | ||||
Deemed dividend | (323,792 | ) | – | |||||
Net loss attributable to common shareholders | $ | (2,638,118 | ) | $ | (2,317,959 | ) | ||
Net loss | $ | (2,314,326 | ) | $ | (2,137,959 | ) | ||
Other comprehensive income (loss): | ||||||||
Foreign currency translation | (29,806 | ) | (79,052 | ) | ||||
Unrealized loss on available -for-sale securities | – | (8,518 | ) | |||||
Net comprehensive loss | $ | (2,344,132 | ) | $ | (2,225,529 | ) | ||
Basic and diluted net loss per common share | $ | (1.10 | ) | $ | (1.46 | ) | ||
Basic and diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding | 2,388,807 | 1,465,243 |
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
F-4 |
MAGELLAN GOLD CORPORATION
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Deficit
For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Additional | Accumulated Other | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred Stock | Common Stock | Paid - in | Comprehensive | Accumulated | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Par Value | Capital | Gain (Loss) | Deficit | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance, December 31, 2016 | – | $ | – | 1,292,611 | $ | 1,293 | $ | 920,160 | $ | – | $ | (1,921,929 | ) | $ | (1,000,476 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
– | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sales of common stock and warrants | – | – | 35,000 | 35 | 174,965 | – | – | 175,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Conversion of notes payable | – | – | 160,000 | 160 | 25,895 | – | – | 26,055 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Reclassification of derivative liability | – | – | – | – | 777,276 | – | – | 777,276 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock issued for prepaid services | – | – | 60,000 | 60 | 119,940 | – | – | 120,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock Based compensation | – | – | 80,000 | 80 | 303,562 | – | – | 303,642 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock issued for acquisition of SDA Mill | – | – | 284,017 | 284 | 425,741 | – | – | 426,025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Capital contribution | – | – | – | – | 150,000 | – | – | 150,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss | – | – | – | – | – | – | (2,137,959 | ) | (2,137,959 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive loss | – | – | – | – | – | (87,570 | ) | – | (87,570 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance, December 31, 2017 | – | – | 1,911,628 | 1,912 | 2,897,539 | (87,570 | ) | (4,059,888 | ) | (1,248,007 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Adoption of ASU 2016-01 | – | – | – | – | – | 8,518 | (8,518 | ) | – | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Sales of common stock and warrants | – | – | 460,000 | 460 | 459,540 | – | – | 460,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Exercise of warrants | – | – | 120,000 | 120 | 119,880 | – | – | 120,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Conversion of debt - related party | – | – | 198,100 | 198 | 197,902 | – | – | 198,100 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Warrant derivative liability | – | – | – | (168,791 | ) | – | – | (168,791 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Resolution of derivative liability | – | – | – | – | 239,262 | – | – | 239,262 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock Based compensation | – | – | 20,000 | 20 | 36,647 | – | – | 36,667 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock issued for prepaid asset | – | – | 20,261 | 20 | 18,215 | – | – | 18,235 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Conversion of debt | – | – | 236,000 | 236 | 187,012 | – | – | 187,248 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Deemed dividend | – | – | 298,636 | 299 | 323,493 | – | (323,792 | ) | – | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Rounding from stock split | – | – | 127 | – | – | – | – | – | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss | – | – | – | – | – | – | (2,314,326 | ) | (2,314,326 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive loss | – | – | – | – | – | (29,806 | ) | – | (29,806 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance, December 31, 2018 | – | $ | – | 3,264,752 | $ | 3,265 | $ | 4,310,699 | $ | (108,858 | ) | $ | (6,706,524 | ) | $ | (2,501,418 | ) |
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
F-5 |
MAGELLAN GOLD CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years ended December 31, | ||||||||
2018 | 2017 | |||||||
Operating activities: | ||||||||
Net loss | $ | (2,314,326 | ) | $ | (2,137,959 | ) | ||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: | ||||||||
Accretion of asset retirement obligation | – | 367 | ||||||
Accretion of discounts on notes payable | 421,083 | 12,766 | ||||||
Amortization of service contracts | 119,167 | 52,884 | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization expense | 118,822 | 12,104 | ||||||
Loss on extinguishment of debt | 73,750 | – | ||||||
Unrealized loss on equity securities | 38,923 | – | ||||||
(Gain) loss on change in derivative liability | (224,529 | ) | 657,776 | |||||
Impairment loss | 323,200 | 345,697 | ||||||
Stock based compensation | 36,667 | 303,642 | ||||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | ||||||||
Due from Rose Petroleum | 27,147 | (27,147 | ) | |||||
Prepaid expenses and other assets | (109,402 | ) | 1,354 | |||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 396,114 | 229,259 | ||||||
Accrued interest | 451,029 | 83,331 | ||||||
Net cash used in operating activities | (642,355 | ) | (465,926 | ) | ||||
Investing activities: | ||||||||
Purchase of plant, property and equipment | (15,760 | ) | – | |||||
Payment of installment on El Dorado acquisition | (50,000 | ) | – | |||||
Purchase of Rio Silver equity securities | – | (58,297 | ) | |||||
Payment of option to acquire SDA mill | – | (1,000,000 | ) | |||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (65,760 | ) | (1,058,297 | ) | ||||
Financing activities: | ||||||||
Proceeds from advances from related parties | 19,300 | 34,150 | ||||||
Payments on advances from related parties | (19,300 | ) | (26,050 | ) | ||||
Payments on expenses paid on related party credit card | (101,181 | ) | – | |||||
Proceeds from Notes payable - related parties | 160,700 | 1,075,000 | ||||||
Payments on Notes payable - related parties | (60,700 | ) | – | |||||
Proceeds from Line of credit - related party | 20,000 | – | ||||||
Proceeds from convertible notes | 300,000 | 267,150 | ||||||
Proceeds from convertible notes - related parties | 150,000 | – | ||||||
Payments on convertible notes | (306,896 | ) | – | |||||
Proceeds from sale of common stock and warrants | 460,000 | 175,000 | ||||||
Proceeds from the exercise of warrants | 120,000 | – | ||||||
Net cash provided by financing activities | 741,923 | 1,525,250 | ||||||
Effect of foreign currency exchange | (29,367 | ) | (1,091 | ) | ||||
Net increase in cash | 4,441 | (64 | ) | |||||
Cash at beginning of period | 421 | 485 | ||||||
Cash at end of period | $ | 4,862 | $ | 421 | ||||
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information | ||||||||
Cash paid for interest | $ | 90,373 | $ | 382 | ||||
Cash paid for income taxes | $ | – | $ | – | ||||
Non-cash financing and investing activities: | ||||||||
Conversion of line of credit to common stock | $ | 100,000 | $ | – | ||||
Conversion of advances - related party to common stock | $ | 8,100 | $ | – | ||||
Conversion of accrued wages to common stock | $ | 90,000 | $ | – | ||||
Common stock issued for prepaid assets | $ | 18,235 | $ | – | ||||
Deemed dividend on true-up share issuance | $ | 323,792 | $ | – | ||||
Adoption of ASU 2016-01 | $ | 8,518 | ||||||
Common stock issued for prepaid service contracts | $ | – | $ | 120,000 | ||||
Common stock issued for purchase of SDA Mill | $ | – | $ | 426,025 | ||||
Conversion of accounts payable - related party to note payable | $ | – | $ | 100,000 | ||||
Notes payable - Rose Petroleum, purchase of SDA Mill | $ | – | $ | 50,000 | ||||
Dr. Carson capital contribution for waiver of accrued wages | $ | – | $ | 150,000 | ||||
Conversion of notes payable and accrued interest to common stock | $ | 187,248 | $ | 26,055 | ||||
Warrant derivative liability | $ | 168,791 | $ | – | ||||
Resolution of derivative liability | $ | 239,262 | $ | 777,276 | ||||
Expenses paid by related party credit cards | $ | 125,945 | $ | – | ||||
Unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities | $ | – | $ | 8,518 |
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
F-6 |
MAGELLAN GOLD CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1 – Organization, Basis of Presentation, and Continuance of Operations
Organization and Nature of Operations
Magellan Gold Corporation (“we” “our”, “us”, the “Company” or “Magellan”) was incorporated on September 28, 2010, under the laws of the State of Nevada. Our principal business is the acquisition and exploration of mineral resources. We have not presently determined whether the properties to which we have mining rights contain mineral reserves that are economically recoverable.
On January 3, 2019, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) informed Magellan Gold Corporation, a Nevada corporation (the “Company”) that a 1-for-50 reverse split of the Company’s common stock, previously disclosed in the Company’s Definitive Information Statement on Schedule 14C filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on September 22, 2017, would be effective at the market open on January 7, 2019. The stock split has been retroactively adjusted throughout these financial statements and footnotes.
On December 31, 2014, we formed and organized a new wholly-owned subsidiary, Gulf+Western Industries, Inc., a Nevada corporation (“Gulf+Western” or “G+W”), to own and operate our Silver District mining interests. On October 1, 2014 we completed the transfer of those assets from Magellan to G+W. Effective December 31, 2014 Magellan pledged all its ownership interest in G+W to Mr. John D. Gibbs, a significant shareholder in the Company, as security for outstanding amounts under a line of credit agreement between Magellan and Mr. Gibbs.
On June 1, 2015, we transferred 15% of our ownership interest in G+W to Dr. W. Pierce Carson (Dr. Carson), in exchange for one year of service as President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of G+W. As a result of the transaction, Magellan’s ownership interest in G+W was reduced to 85%. The transaction was valued at $50,000 representing compensation for the one-year period from 2015 through May 2016. On June 1, 2016 we executed an employment agreement with Dr. Carson in which he assumed the positions of President and Chief Executive Officer of Magellan Gold Corporation. The agreement also provided that Dr. Carson be appointed a Director of Magellan Gold Corporation, effective June 30, 2016. As a result, Mr. John Power resigned his positions as President and Chief Executive Officer and retained the position of Chief Financial Officer until December 31, 2017 upon his replacement by Michael P. Martinez as CFO. Mr. Power and Dr. Carson currently serve as Directors of Magellan.
In July 2016, the Company completed a share exchange with Dr. Carson in which Dr. Carson surrendered his 15% interest in G+W in exchange for 172,480 shares of Magellan Gold Corporation. As a result of this transaction, G+W became a wholly owned subsidiary of Magellan Gold Corporation.
On October 24, 2016, the Company entered into a Mining Option Agreement (“Option Agreement”) between and among Rio Silver Inc., a Canadian company (“Rio Silver”), Minera Rio Plata S.A.C. (“Minera”), a Peruvian company and subsidiary of Rio Silver, and Magellan Gold Peru S.A.C. (“Magellan Peru”), a Peruvian company and wholly owned subsidiary of the Company pursuant to which Rio Silver through Minera granted to the Company a sole and exclusive option to acquire an undivided 50% interest in and to property located in central Peru. Effective December 31, 2017, the Company agreed with Rio Silver to terminate the option agreement, thereby terminating the Company’s option to earn an interest in the Niñobamba Silver/Gold Project. The Company retained its ownership of Rio Silver stock. Further information regarding the Option Agreement is included in Note 4– Mining Option Agreement.
On November 30, 2017, the Company purchased from Rose Petroleum plc (“Rose”) a mineral processing mill operation located in the state of Navarit, Mexico (the “SDA Mill”) as well as its associated assets, licenses and agreements. Magellan previously paid a $50,000 option payment, and an additional $100,000 option-to-purchase extension. The $100,000 option extension payment was applied against the cash portion of the purchase price.
F-7 |
The purchase price for the SDA Mill consisted of $850,000 cash, a $50,000 promissory note, the $50,000 non-refundable option payment, the $100,000 previously paid for the option-to-purchase extension, and 284,017 shares of common stock (the “Shares”) with a fair value of $426,025 at the closing date. The note is non-interest bearing and due on March 10, 2018. The Shares will be held in escrow for a period of 12 months and the Company had the option to repurchase the Shares from Rose for the sum of $500,000 in the first six months and $550,000 in months 7 to 12.
Rose owned 1 share of Series A capital stock of Minerales Vane S.A. de C.V. (“Minerales Vane 1”) and Vane Minerals (UK) Limited (“Vane UK”) owned 49,999 shares of Series A capital stock and 26,524,000 shares of Series B capital stock of Minerales Vane 1.
Prior to closing, all of the assets and operations related to the SDA Mill were transferred to a newly incorporated entity, Minerales Vane 2 S.A. de C.V. (“Minerales Vane 2”). Magellan purchased 100% of the issued and outstanding shares of Minerales Vane 2. Effective November 30, 2017, the Company’s newly incorporated wholly-owned subsidiary, Magellan Acquisition Corporation (“MAC”), acquired Minerales Vane 2.
On October 17, 2017, the Company amended the agreement to include the acquisition of Minerales VANE Operaciones ("MVO") (the entity that provides labor to the Mill) for $2,500 as soon as practicable following the closing of the acquisition of the SDA Mill. At December 31, 2017, the Company had not obtained control of MVO. Magellan had not paid the purchase price of $2,500, had not received the outstanding shares of MVO and had not legally acquired the assets and liabilities. The purpose of acquiring MVO is that it is the sister entity that employs all employees of the SDA mill. In January 2018 the Company paid the purchase price and obtained legal control of MVO. The acquisition of MVO did not result in the acquisition of any additional assets or liabilities.
Our primary focus with the acquisition of the SDA Mill in Mexico is to transform Magellan into a production company with its El Dorado concession and to continue to advance our Arizona silver project towards resource definition and eventual development, and possibly to acquire additional mineral rights and conduct additional exploration, development and permitting activities. Our mineral lease payments, permitting applications and exploration and development efforts will require additional capital. We rely upon the sale of our securities as well as advances and loans from executive management and significant shareholders to fund our operations as we have not generated any significant revenue.
Liquidity and Going Concern
Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which assumes that we will be able to meet our obligations and continue our operations during the next fiscal year. Asset realization values may be significantly different from carrying values as shown in our consolidated financial statements and do not give effect to adjustments that would be necessary to the carrying values of assets and liabilities should we be unable to continue as a going concern. At December 31, 2018, we had a working capital deficit, we had not yet generated any significant revenues or achieved profitable operations and we have accumulated losses of $6,706,524. We expect to incur further losses in the development of our business, all of which raises substantial doubt as to our ability to continue as a going concern. Our ability to continue as a going concern depends on our ability to generate future profits and/or to obtain the necessary financing to meet our obligations arising from normal business operations when they come due.
We anticipate that additional funding will be in the form of additional loans from officers, directors or significant shareholders, or equity financing from the sale of our common stock but cannot assure than any future financings will occur.
Note 2 – Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation
Our consolidated financial statements include our accounts and the accounts of our 100% owned subsidiaries, Gulf + Western Industries, Inc., Magellan Acquistion Corporation, Minerales Vane 2, S.A. de C.V., and Minerales VANE Operaciones. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).
F-8 |
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires us to make estimates, assumptions and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of expenses during the period presented.
We make our estimate of the ultimate outcome for these items based on historical trends and other information available when the financial statements are prepared. Changes in estimates are recognized in accordance with the accounting rules for the estimate, which is typically in the period when new information becomes available. We believe that our significant estimates, assumptions and judgments are reasonable, based upon information available at the time they were made. Actual results could differ from these estimates, making it possible that a change in these estimates could occur in the near term.
Reclassifications
Certain items in these consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current year's presentation.
Foreign Currency Translations
The Company maintains its accounting records in US Dollars. Our operating subsidiary, Minerales Vane 2, S.A. de C.V and Minerales VANE Operaciones are located in Mexico and maintain its accounting records in the Mexican Peso, which is its functional currency. Assets and liabilities of the subsidiaries are translated into the U.S. dollars at exchange rates at the balance sheet date, equity accounts are translated at historical exchange rate and revenues and expenses are translated by using the average exchange rates. Translation adjustments are reported as a separate component of other comprehensive loss in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss. Foreign currency denominated transactions are translated at exchange rates approximating those ruling at the transaction dates. Exchange gains and losses are recognized in income.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
We value our financial assets and liabilities using fair value measurements. Our financial instruments primarily consist of cash and cash equivalents, investments in available for sale securities, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, derivative liabilities, amounts due to related parties and notes payable to related parties. Fair value is based on the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, notes payable to third parties and related parties and other amounts due to related parties approximates fair value because of the short-term nature of these financial instruments.
Concentrations
Our financial instruments which potentially subject us to credit risk are our cash and cash equivalents. We maintain our cash and cash equivalents at reputable financial institutions and currently, we are not exposed to significant credit risk. All sales during the year ended December 31, 2018 were to one customer.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
We consider all amounts on deposit with financial institutions and highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents at the date of purchase.
Investment Securities
We report investments in marketable equity securities at fair value. Realized and unrealized gains and losses on equity securities are included net income (loss). We regularly review equity securities for impairment using both quantitative and qualitative criteria.
F-9 |
Mineral Rights
We have determined that our mineral rights meet the definition of mineral rights, as defined by accounting standards, and are tangible assets. As a result, our direct costs to acquire or lease mineral rights are initially capitalized as tangible assets. Mineral rights include costs associated with: leasing or acquiring patented and unpatented mining claims; leasing mining rights including lease signature bonuses, lease rental payments and advance minimum royalty payments; and options to purchase or lease mineral properties.
If we establish proven and probable reserves for a mineral property and establish that the mineral property can be economically developed, mineral rights will be amortized over the estimated useful life of the property following the commencement of commercial production or expensed if it is determined that the mineral property has no future economic value or if the property is sold or abandoned. For mineral rights in which proven and probable reserves have not yet been established, we assess the carrying values for impairment at the end of each reporting period and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.
The net carrying value of our mineral rights represents the fair value at the time the mineral rights were acquired less accumulated depletion and any abandonment or impairment losses. Proven and probable reserves have not been established for mineral rights as of December 31, 2018. Impairment charges of $323,200 and $0 were recognized during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
Impairment of Long-lived Assets
We continually monitor events and changes in circumstances that could indicate that our carrying amounts of long-lived assets, including mineral rights, may not be recoverable. When such events or changes in circumstances occur, we assess the recoverability of long-lived assets by determining whether the carrying value of such assets will be recovered through their undiscounted expected future cash flow. If the future undiscounted cash flow is less than the carrying amount of these assets, we recognize an impairment loss based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment is recorded at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Property and equipment is amortized on a straight-line basis over its estimated life:
· | SDA Mill – 10 years | |
· | Mill equipment – 10 years | |
· | Tailings Dam – 10 years | |
· | Office and Warehouse – 10 years |
Goodwill
Goodwill was generated through the acquisition of the SDA Mill in fiscal 2017 as the total consideration paid exceeded the fair value of the net assets acquired.
The Company tests its goodwill for impairment at least annually and whenever events or circumstances change that indicate impairment may have occurred. A significant amount of judgment is involved in determining if an indicator of impairment has occurred. Such indicators may include, among others: a significant decline in the Company’s expected future cash flows; a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate; unanticipated competition; and slower growth rates. Any adverse change in these factors could have a significant impact on the recoverability of goodwill and the Company’s consolidated financial results. There was an impairment charge of $0 and $345,697 during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
Asset Retirement Obligations
The Company accounts for asset retirement obligations in accordance with ASC 410-20, Asset Retirement Obligations. ASC 410-20 requires the Company to record the fair value of an asset retirement obligation as a liability in the period in which it incurs an obligation associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets that result from the acquisition, construction, development and/or normal use of the assets. Asset retirement obligations consists of estimated final mill closure and associated ground reclamation costs to be incurred by the Company in the future once the economical life of its SDA Mill is reached. The estimated fair value of the asset retirement obligation is based on the current cost escalated at an inflation rate and discounted at a credit adjusted risk-free rate. This liability is capitalized as part of the cost of the related asset and amortized over its useful life. The liability accretes until the Company settles the obligation.
F-10 |
Comprehensive Income/Loss
ASC 220, Comprehensive Income, establishes standards for the reporting and display of comprehensive income/loss and its components in the financial statements. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company’s component of comprehensive income was foreign currency translation adjustments.
Notes Payable – Related Parties
Notes payable to related parties are classified as current liabilities as either the note holders have the ability to control the repayment dates of the notes or maturity dates are within one year of the reported balance sheet date.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenue in accordance with ASC Topic 606, Revenue From Contracts With Customers, which was adopted on January 1, 2018 using the modified retrospective method, with no impact to the Company’s comparative financial statements. Revenues are recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to the customer in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for transferring those goods or services. Revenue is recognized based on the following five step model:
· | Identification of the contact with a customer |
· | Identification of the performance obligations in the contract |
· | Determination of the transaction price |
· | Allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract |
· | Recognition of revenue when, or as, the Company satisfies a performance obligation |
All of the Company’s revenue is currently generated from the sales of similar products. As such no further disaggregation of revenue information is provided.
Performance Obligations
Revenues are recognized when all the following criteria are satisfied: (i) a contract with an end user exists which has commercial substance; (ii) it is probable the Company will collect the amount charged to the end user; and (iii) the Company has completed its performance obligation whereby the end user has received the benefit of the services or when control of products has transferred to the end user. A contract with commercial substance exists once the Company receives and accepts a purchase order or once it enters into a contract with an end user. If collectibility is not probable, the sale is deferred and not recognized until collection is probable or payment is received. Control of products typically transfers when title and risk of ownership of the product has transferred to the customer or the services are completed. Net revenues comprise gross revenues less customer discounts and allowances, actual and expected returns. Shipping charges billed to customers are included in net sales. Various taxes on the sale of products and services to customers are collected by the Company as an agent and remitted to the respective taxing authority. These taxes are presented on a net basis and recorded as a liability until remitted to the respective taxing authority.
Contract Costs
Costs incurred to obtain a customer contract are not material to the Company. The Company elected to apply the practical expedient to not capitalize contract costs to obtain contracts with a duration of one year or less, which are expensed and included within cost of goods and services.
F-11 |
Contract Liabilities
The Company may at times receive payment at the time the customer places an order or requests services. Amounts received for undelivered
product are considered a contract liability and are recorded as deferred revenue. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company
had $15,000 and $0 of deferred revenue related to unsatisfied performance obligations included with accrued liabilities.
Exploration Costs
Mineral exploration costs are expensed as incurred. When it has been determined that it is economically feasible to extract minerals and the permitting process has been initiated, exploration costs incurred to further delineate and develop the property are considered pre-commercial production costs and will be capitalized and included as mine development costs in our balance sheets.
Income Taxes
We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and the amounts at which they are carried in the financial statements and the effect of net operating losses based upon the enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. A valuation allowance is established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company had no uncertain tax positions.
Net Loss per Common Share
We compute basic net loss per common share by dividing our net loss attributable to common shareholders by our weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Computation of diluted net loss per common share adds the weighted-average number of potential common shares outstanding to the weighted-average common shares outstanding, as calculated for basic net loss per share, except for instances in which there is a net loss. For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, potential common shares associated with convertible notes payable and outstanding warrants and options to purchase common stock have been omitted from the net loss per common share computation as they are anti-dilutive due to the net loss for these periods.
Stock-based Compensation
The Company determines the fair value of stock option awards granted to employees in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718 – 10 and to non-employees in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 505 – 50. Compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the value of the award and is recognized over the service period, which is usually the vesting period.
New Accounting Standards
From time to time, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) or other standards setting bodies issue new accounting pronouncements. Updates to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification are communicated through issuance of an Accounting Standards Update. Unless otherwise discussed, we believe that the impact of recently issued guidance, whether adopted or to be adopted in the future, is not expected to have a material impact on our financial statements upon adoption.
In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU No. 2016-02, "Leases: Topic 842 (ASU 2016-02)", to supersede nearly all existing lease guidance under GAAP. The guidance would require lessees to recognize most leases on their balance sheets as lease liabilities with corresponding right-of-use assets. ASU 2016-02 is effective for the Company in the first quarter of our fiscal year ending December 31, 2019 using a modified retrospective approach with the option to elect certain practical expedients. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of its pending adoption of ASU 2016-02 on its consolidated financial statements but does not expect it to have a material impact.
F-12 |
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards
In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, “Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities,” which addresses the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial assets and liabilities. This ASU primarily affects the accounting for equity investments, financial liabilities under the fair value option and the presentation and disclosure requirements for financial instruments. In addition, this ASU clarifies the valuation allowance assessment when recognizing deferred tax assets resulting from unrealized losses on available-for-sale debt securities. This standard became effective on January 1, 2018. At the adoption of this standard the Company reclassified $8,518 from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss to Accumulated Deficit which represented the cumulative impact of the new standard.
Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09—Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). On May 28, 2014, the FASB issued guidance that requires an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. This ASU was further amended by ASU No. 2015-14, No. 2016-08, No. 2016-10, No. 2016-12 and No. 2016-20. The guidance provides a five-step approach to be applied to all contracts with customers and also requires expanded disclosures about revenue recognition. The Company has performed an assessment of the revised guidance and the impacts on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements and disclosures and has determined that the adoption of this guidance did not have an impact. The Company adopted the new guidance effective January 1, 2018 using the modified retrospective approach.
Note 3 – Mineral Rights and Properties
El Dorado
The Company entered into an agreement giving it the right to acquire the El Dorado Gold-Silver Property, a 50 hectare mining concession located near the village of Las Minitas, which lies 50 kilometers south of Magellan’s SDA Flotation Plant at Acaponeta, Nayarit State.
Magellan has concluded an agreement with Ingenieros Mineros, S.A. de C.V., the owner of the El Dorado mining concession giving the Company the right to acquire the concession by making staged six-monthly option payments over two years towards an end purchase price of $800,000 (plus 16% IVA). No royalties are payable. Magellan has the right to begin production during the term of the agreement. The Company has made the initial option payment of $50,000 (plus 16% IVA).
In addition, the Company entered into an agreement to purchase a comprehensive El Dorado data package including diamond drill core and technical information for a price of $120,000, payable in cash and Magellan common stock. As of December 31, 2018, $10,000 of cash and 20,261 shares of common stock, with an issuance day fair value of $18,235, have been issued. As of December 31, 2018, $40,000 in cash and $60,000 in stock is due and payable under this agreement in 2019.
At December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, our mineral rights and properties were $48,164 and $0 (after currency adjustment), respectively associated with our El Dorado project. We updated our impairment analysis as of December 31, 2018 and concluded that the carrying value is not impaired.
Silver District
In August 2012, we entered into an option agreement with Columbus Exploration f/k/a Columbus Silver Corporation, which granted us the right to acquire all of Columbus’ interest in its Silver District properties located in La Paz County, Arizona. We paid Columbus an initial $63,200 on signing of the option and a further $50,000 in December 2012. We paid other patented and unpatented mining claim purchase and lease obligations in 2013 and 2014 to maintain the project claims and leases in good standing. On December 31, 2014, we paid an additional $100,000 to Columbus Exploration to acquire all of Columbus’ interest in its Silver District properties located in La Paz County, Arizona. The properties acquired from Columbus were assigned into our subsidiary Gulf+Western Industries, Inc. and our total acquisition cost capitalized was $323,200.
F-13 |
The Silver District property consists of 110 unpatented lode and mill site mining claims, six patented lode claims, and an Arizona State Exploration Permit, all of which are held directly or under lease agreements, totaling over 2,000 acres. Certain of the claims are subject to third party net smelter royalties and/or net profits of varying percentages.
In August 2018, we renewed the BLM lode and mill site claims in La Paz County, Arizona with the Bureau of Land Management and these claims will remain in good standing through August 31, 2019. Additionally, in both August 2017 and 2018, we made advance minimum royalty payments of $10,000 to a third-party landowner on the Red Cloud lease, which includes the Red Cloud Patented claim and two BLM lode claims. We also expanded the Arizona State Exploration Permit to approximately 334.85 acres on the Arizona State section that comprises part of our Silver District land package and are current on our obligations under this permit.
On July 9, 2015, G+W entered into two Lease and Purchase Agreements (“Agreements”) with an individual that grant the Company certain exploration and mining rights for two patented lode claims located in the Silver District, La Paz County, Arizona. The Agreements provide for scheduled variable annual advance minimum royalty payments to the lessor. In addition, the Agreements have an initial term of 20 years, and provide for the purchase of the properties for $125,000 each during the term of the lease, net of any advance royalty payments made up to the date of the purchase. The Company paid the initial advance royalty payments totaling $3,000 and advance royalty payments of $3,000 to maintain these Agreements. Due to an uncertainty associated with the clarification of the legal title for these two patented lode claims, these payments have not been capitalized as mining rights, and therefore are included in exploration costs during the period in which the obligation was due.
During the year ended December 31, 2018 the Company fully impaired its capitalized asset of $323,200 related to the Sliver District project.
Note 4 –Mining Option Agreement
On June 30, 2016 the Company signed a non-binding Letter of Intent (“LOI”) with Rio Silver Inc., and on October 24, 2016 the Company executed a definitive Mining Option Agreement (“Option Agreement), pursuant to which Magellan is granted the option to earn an undivided 50% interest in the Niñobamba Silver- Gold Property (“Property”), located 330 kilometers southeast of Lima in the Department of Ayacucho, Peru.
As a condition of the LOI, the Company paid a refundable $12,000 deposit. This payment was recorded as a deposit and subsequently used to maintain certain mining concessions on the property.
In addition to the deposit, the Company was obliged to subscribe to two private placement unit financings in Rio Silver, each for aggregate proceeds of Cdn$75,000. The Company completed the first unit private placement on August 23, 2016. The first placement included 1,500,000 units priced at Cdn$0.05, which included one share of Rio Silver common stock and one warrant to purchase one share of Rio Silver common stock for Cdn$0.05 preliminarily set to expire on February 23, 2018. The cost of the units in the first private placement totaled USD $59,753. The second placement included 1,250,000 units priced at Cdn$0.06, which was completed on January 19, 2017, and included one share of Rio Silver common stock and one warrant to purchase one share of Rio Silver common stock for Cdn$0.06 preliminarily set to expire on July 19, 2018. The cost of the units in the second private placement totaled USD $58,297. Each of these transactions were recorded as an investment in Rio Silver equity securities and included on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2018 and 2017. During the year ended December 31, 2018, we have recorded an unrealized loss of $38,923 to write-down the investment. The shares of common stock and warrants of Rio Silver have been pledged by the Company to John Power to secure repayment of a $125,000 loan.
Under the terms of the Agreement, the Company had the right to earn an undivided 50% interest in the Niñobamba Silver/Gold Project in central Peru. To earn its 50% interest, the Company was required to spend $2.0 million in exploration over three years. The Niñobamba project is comprised of five concessions that total 36.5 square kilometers (9,026 acres). The concessions include the original Rio Silver concession, three concessions recently acquired from a Peruvian company owned jointly by Newmont Mining Corporation and Southern Peru Copper Corporation, and one concession for which application was made, and which was granted in 2017.
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On January 5, 2018, Magellan entered into a Termination Agreement, effective December 31, 2017, with Rio Silver Inc. to mutually terminate the Company’s option to earn an interest in Rio Silver’s Niñobamba exploration property in Peru. In connection with the termination of the agreement, Rio Silver agreed to apply to the TSX Venture Exchange for an 18-month extension of the 2,750,000 warrants that Magellan holds in Rio Silver stock, which otherwise would expire in February and July 2018. The TSX Venture Exchange subsequently approved the extensions.
In connection with the termination of the agreement, Magellan agreed to grant Rio Silver a right of first refusal on any sale of the 2,750,000 shares of Rio Silver stock that Magellan currently holds.
Additionally, effective in 2018, the Company sold its interest in Magellan Gold Peru S.A.C. for consideration of $1.00. The Company realized a loss on disposition of $567.
Note 5 – Acquisition of SDA Mill
On March 3, 2017 the Company entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with Rose Petroleum plc (“Rose”), a multi-asset natural resource business, to purchase an operating floatation plant that also includes a precious metals leach circuit and associated assets, licenses and agreements (together, the “SDA Mill”) located in the State of Nayarit, Mexico.
Prior to closing, all of the assets and operations related to the SDA Mill were transferred to a newly incorporated entity, Minerales Vane 2 S.A. de C.V. (“Minerales Vane 2”). Effective November 30, 2017, the Company’s newly incorporated wholly-owned subsidiary, Magellan Acquisition Corporation (“MAC”), acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding shares of Minerales Vane 2.
The total purchase price for the SDA Mill was determined to be $1,476,025 which consisted of $850,000 cash, a $50,000 promissory note, the $50,000 non-refundable option payment, the $100,000 paid for the option-to-purchase extension, and 284,017 shares of common stock (the “Shares”) with a fair value of $426,025. The note was non-interest bearing and was paid in full April 12, 2018. This note was grouped with Notes Payable Related Party due to Rose’s share ownership in the Company. The Shares will be held in escrow for a period of 12 months and the Company has the option to repurchase the Shares from Rose for the sum of $500,000 in the first six months and $550,000 in months 7 to 12. The Company did not exercise this option to repurchase the shares from Rose and the option is now expired.
On April 12, 2018, the Company satisfied its note payable in the amount of $50,000 in favor of Rose Petroleum, plc in respect of the purchase of the SDA Mill, as required under terms of the Stock Purchase Agreement.
Subsequent to the purchase of the SDA Mill, the Company and Rose Petroleum executed an IVA Agreement which implemented the provisions of the Stock Purchase Agreement with respect to the payment of the IVA Tax assessed by the Mexican taxing authorities on the sale and purchase of the IVA Mill. Under the terms of the IVA Agreement, Rose Petroleum advanced the IVA tax, in Mexican Pesos, for the payment of the IVA tax, approximately $260,000. The Company has agreed that all future tax credits or refunds that it receives from the Mexican taxing authority will be paid over to Rose until such time as Rose has recouped the advance, in full. Mr. Carson executed a Guaranty of the Company's obligations under the IVA Agreement effective March 8, 2018.
In March 2018, the Company and Rose Petroleum, plc satisfied their respective obligations for payment of Mexican VAT on purchase of the SDA Mill, as required under terms of the Stock Purchase Agreement. The acquisition of Minerales Vane 2 has been accounted for as a business combination whereby the purchase price was allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The Company performed a valuation analysis of the fair market value the SDA Mill’s assets and liabilities.
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The following table summarizes the preliminary allocation of the purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date:
Purchase Price | ||||
Cash | $ | 850,000 | ||
Note payable | 50,000 | |||
Option payments | 150,000 | |||
Common stock | 426,025 | |||
Total Purchase Price | $ | 1,476,025 | ||
Allocation of Purchase Price | ||||
Crushing equipment | $ | 254,000 | ||
Grinding equipment | 272,000 | |||
Flotation equipment | 156,000 | |||
Tailings machinery | 6,000 | |||
Concentrate machinery | 17,000 | |||
Water machinery | 12,000 | |||
Feed | 14,000 | |||
Grinding machinery | 218,000 | |||
Leaching machinery | 54,000 | |||
Precipitation plant | 130,000 | |||
Lab equipment | 15,000 | |||
Tailings dam | 50,000 | |||
Office and warehouse assets | 35,000 | |||
Asset retirement obligation | (122,024 | ) | ||
Goodwill | 365,049 | |||
Net assets acquired | $ | 1,476,025 |
Unaudited pro forma results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 as though the Company had acquired the SDA Mill on the first day of the fiscal year are set forth below:
December 31, 2017 | ||||
Pro Forma | ||||
Net Sales | $ | 305,272 | ||
Operating Expenses | 2,995,145 | |||
Net Loss | $ | (2,689,873 | ) |
Note 6 – Interim Toll Milling Agreement
On November 7, 2017 the Company and Rose executed an Interim Milling Agreement (the “Agreement”), with an effective date of November 1, 2017, whereby, pending closing of the SDA Mill acquisition, Rose shall cause its subsidiary, Minerales Vane S.A. de C.V., a Mexico corporation (“Vane”), to reopen the SDA Mill and recommence operations on a toll milling basis for a third-party. Under the Agreement, the Company is required to provide the working capital to fund the operations and is entitled to all the positive cash flow after covering the related expenses.
The Agreement was completed and terminated during November 2017. The Company has an outstanding receivable from Rose of $0 as of December 31, 2018 and $27,147 as of December 31, 2017.
F-16 |
Note 7 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets are categorized based upon a fair value hierarchy established by GAAP, which prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value into the following levels:
Level 1— Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date.
Level 2— Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable and can be corroborated by observable market data.
Level 3— Inputs reflecting management’s best estimates and assumptions of what market participants would use in pricing assets or liabilities at the measurement date. The inputs are unobservable in the market and significant to the valuation of the instruments.
A financial instrument's categorization within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below:
Fair Value at December 31, | Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2018 | |||||||||||||||
2018 | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | |||||||||||||
Investment in Rio Silver equities | $ | 70,609 | $ | 70,609 | $ | – | $ | – |
Fair Value at December 31, | Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2017 | |||||||||||||||
2017 | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | |||||||||||||
Investment in Rio Silver equities | $ | 109,532 | $ | 109,532 | $ | – | $ | – |
A summary of the activity of the derivative liability is shown below:
Balance December 31, 2016 | 119,500 | |||
Total losses (unrealized, realized) included in net loss | 657,776 | |||
Reclassifications of derivative liability to APIC | (777,276 | ) | ||
Balance December 31, 2017 | – | |||
Convertible note discount from derivative liability | 295,000 | |||
Warrant derivative liability | 168,791 | |||
Resolution of derivative liability | (239,262 | ) | ||
Total losses (unrealized, realized) included in net loss | (224,529 | ) | ||
Balance December 31, 2018 | – |
A summary of the activity of the Investment in Rio Silver equities is shown below:
Balance December 31, 2016 | $ | 59,753 | ||
Total unrealized losses included in Other comprehensive loss | (8,518 | ) | ||
Purchases of Rio Silver equities | 58,297 | |||
Balance December 31, 2017 | 109,532 | |||
Change in fair value | (38,923 | ) | ||
Balance December 31, 2018 | $ | 70,609 |
The carrying values for cash and cash equivalents, prepaid assets, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, related party line of credit and notes payable approximate their fair value due to their short-term maturities.
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Note 8 – Line of Credit – Related Party
Effective December 31, 2012, we entered into a line of credit arrangement with John D. Gibbs, a significant investor, to facilitate timely cash flows for the Company’s operations. The line of credit originally provided for a maximum balance of $250,000, accrued interest at 6% annually, and matured on December 31, 2014.
On December 31, 2013 we amended our credit agreement with Mr. Gibbs to increase the borrowing limit under the line of credit to $750,000. All other terms of the credit agreement, including the interest rate and maturity date remained unchanged.
On December 31, 2014, we again amended the credit agreement to increase the borrowing limit to $900,000 and extend the maturity date to December 31, 2015. As part of the 2014 amendment and the subsequent appointment of Dr. Pierce Carson as the President, CEO and Director of G+W effective June 1, 2015, we had pledged all of our 85% equity interest in G+W, which owns the Silver District properties, as security for all amounts outstanding under the credit agreement. In July 2016, we completed a share exchange with Dr. Carson to re-acquire the 15% interest in G+W, and therefore at December 31, 2017 our entire 100% interest in G+W remains pledged as security for outstanding amounts under this credit agreement.
On December 31, 2015 we again amended the credit agreement to increase the borrowing limit to $1,000,000 and extended the maturity date to December 31, 2016. Finally, on March 31, 2017 with an effective date of December 31, 2016 we again amended the credit agreement to extend the maturity date to December 31, 2018. In April 2019 this credit facility was extended until December 31, 2019 in exchange for a fee equal to 2% of the outstanding balance. All other terms of the agreement were unchanged. At December 31, 2018 the Company has an additional $147,500 available under the credit line.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, $20,000 was received under this agreement. During the same period Mr. Gibbs converted $100,000 of the outstanding balance on the line of credit into 100,000 shares of common stock at $1.00 per share. The outstanding balance under the line of credit was $852,500 and $932,500 at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. In addition, a total of $265,876 and $213,657 of interest has been accrued on this obligation and is included in Accrued interest - related parties on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.
Note 9 – Notes Payable – Related Parties
In August 2011, we entered into an unsecured loan from John Power, the Company’s Director, evidenced by a $20,000 promissory note. The promissory note bears interest at 6% per annum and is payable on demand with thirty days’ notice from the lender. During 2014, the Company made payments totaling $5,000 to pay down the principal balance of the note. Effective December 31, 2017, the interest rate on the note increased to 12% per annum. At both December 31, 2018 and 2017, the note balance was $15,000. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, accrued interest totaling $1,800 and $1,576, respectively, is included in Accrued interest – related parties on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
In January 2014, we entered into an additional unsecured loan from Mr. Power, evidenced by a $50,000 promissory note. The promissory note bears interest at 6.75% per annum and is payable on demand with thirty days’ notice from the lender. Effective December 31, 2017, the interest rate on the note increased to 12% per annum. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, accrued interest totaling $6,000 and $6,249, respectively, is included in Accrued interest – related parties on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. At both December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the note balance was $50,000.
On May 31, 2017 we entered into three short-term notes with Mr. Gibbs, Dr. Carson and Mr. Power in the principal amounts of $100,000, $25,000 and $25,000, respectively. The notes bear interest at 6% and matured on November 15, 2017. A total of $3,760 and $4,512 of interest is accrued on these notes as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. The note balances were subsequently rolled into the Series 2017 Notes.
On June 30, 2017 we entered into an additional secured loan for advances from Mr. Power and evidenced by a $125,000 promissory note. The promissory note bears interest at 6% per annum and matured on December 31, 2017 and is currently in default. Effective December 31, 2017, the interest rate on the note increased to 12% per annum. The note is collateralized by our investment in Rio Silver shares and warrants. At both December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the note balance was $125,000. A total of $15,000 and $3,781 of interest is accrued on these notes as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively and is included in Accrued interest – related parties on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
F-18 |
On November 30, 2017 we entered into a series of secured promissory notes (“Series 2017 Notes”) with both related and unrelated parties in the aggregate amount of $1,155,000, including financing fees of $105,000 recorded as a discount to the notes.
Net proceeds on the issuance after reducing for the transfers previously listed total $900,000. The notes are secured by a stock pledge agreement covering 100% of the outstanding common stock of Magellan Acquisition Corporation, bear interest at 10% and mature on December 31, 2018.
The portion of the Series 2017 Notes from related parties totaled $1,045,000, including financing fees of $95,000 recorded as discount to the notes. Mr. Gibbs, Dr. Carson, and Mr. Power transferred $100,000, $25,000, and $25,000, respectively, from the May 31, 2017 short term related party notes into the Series 2017 Notes. As of December 31, 2018 the balance on the Series 2017 Notes from related parties, net of unamortized discount of $0, is $1,045,000 with accrued interest of $113,375. As of December 31, 2017, the balance on the Series 2017 Notes from related parties, net of unamortized discount of $87,563, is $957,437 with accrued interest of $8,875. During the year ended December 31, 2018 $87,563 of debt discount related to the above notes was fully amortized to interest expense.
On March 12, 2019, the Company extended the Series 2017 Notes to December 31, 2019 in exchange for an increase of the principal balance of $57,918.
During the quarter ended December 31, 2018, Mr. Gibbs participated in the Series 2018A 10% Unsecured Convertible Note for $150,000. See below for further disclosure.
Bridge Note Offering
In October 2018 the Company sold $160,700 of Series 2018 36% Unsecured Promissory Notes (“Notes”) (“Bridge Note Offering”) to Mr. Gibbs and Mr. Power. The purchase price of the Note is equal to the principal amount of the Note. The Maturity Date of the Notes is December 31, 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2018, $10,700 was repaid to Mr. Power leaving a balance of $0. As of December 31, 2018, the portion funded by Mr. Gibbs of $150,000 remained outstanding. On January 18, 2019, the Note was extended until March 31, 2019 after which it was in default.
Note 10 – Notes Payable
As discussed in Note 9 – Notes Payable – Related Parties, on November 30, 2017 we entered into a series of secured promissory notes (“Series 2017 Notes”) with both related and unrelated parties in the aggregate amount of $1,155,000, including financing fees of $105,000 recorded as a discount to the notes.
The total of portion of the Series 2017 Notes from non-related parties totaled $110,000, including financing fees of $10,000 recorded as discount to the notes. As of December 31, 2018 the balance on the notes from non-related parties, net of unamortized discount of $0, is $110,000 with accrued interest of $11,934. As of December 31, 2017, the balance on the notes from non-related parties, net of unamortized discount of $9,217 is $100,783 with accrued interest of $934.
During the year ended December 31, 2018 $9,217 of debt discount related to the above notes was fully amortized to interest expense.
On March 12, 2019, the Company extended the Series 2017 Notes to December 31, 2019 in exchange for an increase of the principal balance of $6,097.
F-19 |
Note 11 – Convertible Notes Payable and Derivative Liability
Auctus Note
On November 1, 2017, the Company sold a 10% Convertible Promissory Note (“Auctus Note”) in a principal amount of $170,000. After deducting the investor’s discount and legal fees, net proceeds to the Company were $153,650. The Note matures on November 1, 2018 and can be converted into the Company’s common stock after 180 days from the date the Note is issued. In early May 2018 when the note became convertible at a variable price the conversion feature was valued and recorded as a derivative liability. The conversion option continued to qualify for derivative treatment until the note was amended on June 8, 2018 (see below) and a minimum conversion price was added to the instrument. The derivative was initially valued at $176,860 which was allocated $170,000 as a debt discount and $6,860 as a loss on derivative liability. The debt discount was fully amortized and the derivative liability was adjusted to $0 as June 8, 2018 when the debt was amended. The result was $170,000 of amortization of debt discount included in interest expense and $176,860 of gain on change in derivative liability.
Effective June 8, 2018 the Company and Auctus Fund, LLC (“Auctus”) signed an Amendment No. 1 to the Convertible Promissory Noted (the “Auctus Note”) dated November 1, 2017 (the “Auctus Amendment”). Under the terms of the Auctus Amendment, the principal outstanding balance of the Auctus Note has been increased from $170,000, to $212,500. Also, Auctus agreed to forbear from exercising rights arising from certain Events of Default (as defined in the Note) unless a new Event of Default occurs or the Company fails to become current in its required SEC filings by June 30, 2018. Auctus also agreed not to exercise its conversion privileges under the Auctus Note at prices below $1.00 per share until September 30, 2018. The Company evaluated this conversion feature and determined that it did not qualify for derivative accounting. It was then determined that no beneficial conversion feature existed at the time of debt issuance. The Company recorded the change in the debt instrument as an extinguishment and recorded the increase in principal balance of $42,500 as a loss on extinguishment of debt. On August 16, 2018 the Auctus Note was again amended to decrease the minimum conversion price to $0.90. The amendment was not considered to be a substantial modification. The Company re-evaluated the conversion feature and determined that no beneficial conversion feature existed at the time of the amendment.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, 204,000 shares were issued related to the conversion of $136,304 of notes and $22,144 of interest and fees. On October 31, 2018, the Company repaid in full the remaining balance of the Auctus note with a payment of $86,217 which included $76,196 of principal.
EMA Note
On November 2, 2017, the Company sold a 10% Convertible Promissory Note (“EMA Note”) in principal amount of $125,000. After deducting the investor’s discount and legal fees, net proceeds to the Company were $113,500. The Note originally matured on November 2, 2018 but was amended to be November 2, 2019 and can be converted into the Company’s common stock after 180 days from the date the Note is issued. In early May 2018 when the note became convertible at a variable price the conversion feature was valued and recorded as a derivative liability. The conversion option continued to qualify for derivative treatment until the note was amended on June 8, 2018 (see below) and a minimum conversion price was added to the instrument. The derivative was initially valued at $225,711 which was allocated $125,000 as a debt discount and $100,711 as a loss on derivative liability. The debt discount was fully amortized and the derivative liability was adjusted to $0 as June 8, 2018 when the debt was amended. The result was $125,000 of amortization of debt discount included in interest expense and $225,711 of gain on change in derivative liability.
Effective June 8, 2018 the Company and EMA Financial, LLC (“EMA”) signed an Amendment No. 1 to the Convertible Promissory Noted (the “EMA Note”) dated November 2, 2017 (the “EMA Amendment”). Under the terms of the EMA Amendment, the principal outstanding balance of the EMA Note has been increased from $125,000, to $156,250. Also, EMA agreed to forbear from exercising rights arising from certain Events of Default (as defined in the Note) unless a new Event of Default occurs or the Company fails to become current in its required SEC filings by June 30, 2018. EMA also agreed not to exercise its conversion privileges under the EMA Note at prices below $1.00 per share until September 30, 2018. The Company evaluated this conversion feature and determined that it did not qualify for derivative accounting. It was then determined that no beneficial conversion feature existed at the time of debt issuance. The Company recorded the change in the debt instrument as an extinguishment and recorded the increase in principal balance of $31,250 as a loss on extinguishment of debt. On August 16, 2018 the EMA Note was again amended to decrease the minimum conversion price to $0.90. The amendment was not considered to be a substantial modification. The Company re-evaluated the conversion feature and determined that no beneficial conversion feature existed at the time of the amendment.
F-20 |
The Company evaluated other convertible instruments and determined that the outstanding common stock warrants were required to be treated as a derivative during the period from May 1, 2018 through June 8, 2018 as a result of the variable conversion feature on the above notes. As a result an initial derivative liability of $62,569 was recorded and reclassified out of equity and a final derivative liability of $70,650 was reclassified back into equity at the point the common stock warrants no longer qualified as a derivative. The impact was the recording of a loss on derivative liability of $8,081. The following assumptions were used in the derivative liability valuation; Expected Term 0.23 years to 0.67 years, Expected Volatility 212% to 232%, Risk free rate 2.03% to 2.12%, Expected Dividend 0.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, 32,000 shares were issued for the conversion of $26,550 of notes and $2,250 of interest and fees. In October 2018, the note and accrued interest was repaid in full using cash proceeds from the Series 2018A Unsecured Convertible Notes.
Power Up Notes
On July 26, 2018, the Company sold a 10% Convertible Promissory Note to Power Up Lending Group Ltd. (“July Power Up Note”) in a principal amount of $63,000. After deducting the investor’s discount and legal fees, net proceeds to the Company were $60,000. The Note matures on July 26, 2019 and can be converted into the Company’s common stock after 180 days from the date the Note is issued.
On August 20, 2018, the Company sold a 10% Convertible Promissory Note to Power Up Lending Group Ltd. (“August Power Up Note”) in a principal amount of $38,000. After deducting the investor’s discount and legal fees, net proceeds to the Company were $35,000. The Note matures on August 20, 2019 and can be converted into the Company’s common stock after 180 days from the date the Note is issued.
In October 2018, the Power Up Notes were repaid in full with a payment of $133,242. Of the payment, $101,000 was applied to the note balances and the remainder to interest and prepayment fees.
Series 2018A and Series 2018B 10% Unsecured Convertible Note
In the quarter ended December 31, 2018, the Company sold $205,000 of Series 2018A and $150,000 of Series B 10% Unsecured Convertible Notes. The purchase price of the Note is equal to the principal amount of the Note. The Series A and Series B Notes are convertible into shares of Common Stock at a conversion price of $1.00 and $1.25, respectively, during the life of the Note. The Company evaluated the conversion option and concluded it was not required to be bifurcated as a derivative. The Company also concluded that no beneficial conversion feature was present at issuance. The Notes will accrue interest at the rate of 10% per annum, payable quarterly in arrears. The Notes mature twelve (12) months from the date of issue. The maturity date can be extended at the option of the Company for an additional one (1) year. Within thirty (30) days following the closing of an offering, the Company has agreed to prepare and file a Registration Statement on Form S-1 registering the resale of the shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of the Notes. Of the Series A issuance, $150,000 was sold to a related party, Mr. Gibbs.
As of December 31, 2018, the balance due under these notes is $355,000 in principal and $5,692 in accrued interest.
Other
On October 1, 2014, we issued a convertible promissory note to a provider of legal services in the original principal amount of $51,532. The note was issued to evidence the Company’s indebtedness for legal services previously rendered. Interest accrues quarterly on the outstanding principal and interest balance of the Note at 6% per annum. The principal plus accrued and unpaid interest was due upon five days’ written demand of the note holder. The note is unsecured.
F-21 |
The note principal and accrued interest was convertible at any time into shares of common stock at a conversion price of $1.95, which represented the closing bid price of the common stock on the OTC Bulletin Board on the date of issuance.
In April 2016 the note holder elected to convert a total of $23,400, consisting of $18,512 of principal and $4,888 of accrued interest. The conversion resulted in the issuance of 12,000 shares of the Company’s common stock. As a result of the conversion, a total of $20,044 of the derivative liability associated with the note was reclassified to additional paid in capital on the conversion date. At December 31, 2016 the remaining note balance was $33,020.
On April 14, 2017 the Company and the note holder agreed to modify the terms of the note to reduce the conversion rate from $1.95 to $0.50, and the maturity terms from five days written demand to 180 days. Immediately subsequent to the modifications, the note holder converted $20,000 of the principal into 40,000 shares of common stock. This transaction resulted in a total of $173,146 of the derivative liability reclassified to additional paid-in capital. Immediately following the conversion, the note principal balance was $13,020 together with accrued interest of $1,830. The Company agreed to pay the note holder $8,850 in cash consisting of a partial principal payment of $7,020 and the $1,830 accrued interest. This resulted in a $76,621 reduction of the derivative liability, which was recorded as a gain on change of the derivative liability. Following these transactions the note had a remaining principal balance of $6,000 and no accrued interest.
Immediately following the modifications and conversion, the note holder agreed to sell the note to a third party, Bright Star International, Inc. (“Bright Star”), with which the Company subsequently entered into an investor and public relations consulting agreement effective May 22, 2017. Upon the sale of the note to Bright Star, the Company again agreed to further reduce the conversion rate from $0.50 to $0.05. All other provisions of the note remained unchanged. Bright Star elected to convert $3,000 of the remaining principal into 60,000 shares of the Company’s common stock. This transaction resulted in a total of $268,930 of the derivative liability transferred to Additional paid-in capital.
On August 3, 2017, Brightstar converted the remaining $3,000 of the note into an additional 60,000 shares of the Company’s stock. Accrued interest on the note of $55 was also converted. This transaction resulted in a total of $335,200 of the derivative liability and $55 of accrued interest transferred to Additional paid-in-capital. As of December 31, 2017, there are no additional principal or accrued interest amounts owed on the note.
The note contained certain anti-dilution provisions that would reduce the conversion price should the Company issue common stock equivalents at a price less than the note conversion price. Accordingly, the conversion features of the note are considered a discount to the note. However, since the note is payable upon demand by the note holder, the value of the discount was considered interest expense at the time of its inception.
The note was evaluated quarterly or upon a triggering event, and upon any valuations in which the value of the discount changes we recognized a gain or loss due to a decrease or increase, respectively, in the fair value of the derivative liability. We estimated the fair value of the derivative using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, which includes assumptions for expected dividends, expected share price volatility, risk-free interest rate, and expected life of the note. Our expected volatility assumption is based on our historical weekly closing price of our stock over a period equivalent to the expected remaining life of the note.
Based upon the above, the note was evaluated upon the initial change in the conversion rate on April 14, 2017 from $1.95 to $0.50. This evaluation resulted in an increase of the liability and a loss on change of the derivative liability of $239,640. The note was again evaluated upon the subsequent reduction of the conversion rate from $0.50 to $0.05. This evaluation resulted in an increase of the liability and a loss on change of the derivative liability of $485,917.
The following table summarizes the assumptions used to value the derivative liability on April 14 for each change in the conversion rate:
Fair value assumptions – derivative: | April 14, 2017 | |
Risk free interest rate | 1.03% | |
Expected term (years) | 1.0 | |
Expected volatility | 154% | |
Expected dividends | 0% |
F-22 |
On August 3, 2017, in accordance with the final conversion of the remaining $3,000 principal of the note, the fair value of the derivative liability was determined to be $335,200 resulting in an additional loss on change of the derivative liability of $1,900
The following table summarizes the assumptions used to value the derivative liability at August 3, 2017:
Fair value assumptions – derivative: | August 3, 2017 | |
Risk free interest rate | 1.22% | |
Expected term (years) | 1.0 | |
Expected volatility | 137% | |
Expected dividends | 0% |
The quarterly and special evaluations combined with the gain resulting from the agreement to pay a portion of the principal and interest to the original note holder have resulted in a total loss on changes of the derivative liability of $657,776 for the year ended December 31, 2017.
Note 12 – Shareholders’ Deficit
Sales of common stock and warrants:
During the nine months ended September 30, 2018, the Company raised $340,000 through the sale of 340,000 common stock and warrants (“Units”) at a price of $1.00 per Unit, each Unit consisting of one share of common stock and one warrant to purchase one additional share of common stock at an exercise price of $1.00 per share. The expiration date of the warrants varies from August 31, 2018 to December 31, 2018. A price protection feature of the offering provides that if at December 31, 2018, the Company has issued common stock at a price less than $1.00 per share, then the number of common shares issuable to each investor shall be increased so as to reduce the common share price to the lower price. The allocation of relative fair values of the equity instruments at the dates of the sale transactions including those disclosed below was as follows: common stock at 53% and the warrants at 47%. During the year ended December 31, 2018 pursuant to the price protection provision discussed above the Company issued 298,636 shares of common stock and committed to issue an additional 45,559 shares. This issuance was recorded as a deemed dividend and valued at $323,792.
During the quarter ended December 31, 2018, the Company raised $120,000 through the sale of 120,000 common stock and warrants (“Units”) at a price of $1.00 per Unit, each Unit consisting of one share of common stock and four warrants to purchase additional shares of common stock. 240,000 of the warrants have an exercise price of $2.00 per share while the other 240,000 warrants have an exercise price of $3.00. The expiration date of the warrants varies from May 8, 2019 to August 8, 2019. These Units in addition to $90,000 of the Units sold in the third quarter included a feature that between the date the units were sold in November 2018 and December 31, 2018 the investors would receive additional common shares and warrants should the Company sell stock at less than the unit offering price. This price protection feature resulted in the warrants being classified as a derivative liability on the date of issuance. This resulted in a day one warrant liability of $284,049, a day one loss on the derivative of $177,827 and a charge to additional paid in capital of $106,222. At the expiration of the price protection feature the current fair value of the warrant liability of $168,612 was reclassified to additional paid in capital resulting in a net impact to equity of $62,390. The following assumptions were used to value the derivative:
Fair value assumptions – derivative: | ||
Risk free interest rate | 2.51% - 2.56% | |
Expected term (years) | 0.35 – 0.72 | |
Expected volatility | 192% - 228% | |
Expected dividends | 0% |
F-23 |
During the year ended December 31, 2018, of the raises above $328,500 was purchased by directors or significant shareholders.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company received net proceeds of $120,000 from the exercise of 120,000 warrants.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, we completed private placements of equity securities in which we sold a total of 25,000 units priced at $5.00 per unit, resulting in total proceeds of $125,000. Each unit consisted of one share of common stock, and one warrant entitling the holder to purchase one share of common stock at a price of $5.00 per share in cash. The expiration date of the warrants was initially December 30, 2017 but was subsequently extended to December 30, 2018 and include anti-dilution rights for stock splits, stock dividends and the sale of substantially all the Company’s assets.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company issued 10,000 shares from the exercise of 10,000 warrants resulting in net proceeds of $50,000.
Conversion of liabilities into common stock:
During the year ended December 31, 2018, Convertible Note holders converted $24,394 of accrued interest and fees and $162,854 of principal into 236,000 shares of common stock in accordance with the note agreements.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company issued 100,000 shares of common stock to Mr. Gibbs related to the conversion of $100,000 of the Line of Credit. The fair value of the shares issued equaled to the amount of debt settled which resulted in no gain or loss.
Effective July 24, 2018, the Company and W. Pierce Carson, President, executed an Agreement to Convert Debt, pursuant to which Carson agreed to convert $90,000 in accrued but unpaid executive compensation for the fiscal quarters ended December 31, 2017, March 31, 2018 and June 30, 2018 and a cash advance of $8,100 made to the Company into an aggregate of 98,100 shares of Common Stock, valued at $1.00 per share. The fair value of the shares issued equaled to the amount of debt settled which resulted in no gain or loss.
Effective July 24, 2018, the Company and W. Pierce Carson executed a Restricted Stock Award Agreement pursuant to which the Company granted to Carson a restricted stock award consisting of 80,000 shares of Common Stock, valued at $1.00 per share. 20,000 of the shares will vest upon the Company completing a milestone, and the remaining 60,000 shares are subject to ratable vesting over an 18-month period. During the year ended December 31, 2018 the Company recognized an expense of $36,667 related to this issuance.
Issuance of share-based awards for services:
On November 1, 2017, the Company entered into a Consulting Agreement with Life Sciences Journeys, Inc. (“Life Sciences”). Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement, the Company agreed to issue to Life Sciences, as its sole compensation, an aggregate of 60,000 shares of the Company’s restricted common stock. The stock was valued at $120,000 at the date of grant and recorded as prepaid expense. During 2018 and 2017, $99,616 and $20,384 was recognized as consulting expense, respectively.
On October 26, 2017, the Company issued 80,000 shares of restricted common stock to its CEO and President. The stock was valued at $160,000 at the date of grant. Stock based compensation of $160,000 was recognized during the year ended December 31, 2017.
On October 26, 2017, the Company granted stock options to four persons pursuant to the Company’s 2017 Equity Incentive Plan. The Company granted options to purchase an aggregate of 72,000 shares having an exercise price of $2.00 per share, the closing price on the date of grant. The options have a term of ten years from the date of grant and are immediately exercisable on the date of grant. Using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, the options were valued at $143,642 with the following significant assumptions: risk-free interest rate 2.07% , expected life of 5 years, stock price volatility of 269.11%, and expected dividend yield of zero. Stock based compensation of $143,642 was recognized during the year ended December 31, 2017.
F-24 |
On September 25, 2017, the Company entered into an advertising agreement (“Agreement”) with Bright Star International, Inc. (“Bright Star”). Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement, the Company issued Bright Star, as its sole compensation, an aggregate of 30,000 shares of the Company’s restricted common stock. The Agreement was subsequently cancelled and the shares were returned to the Company.
Issuance of stock for the purchase of SDA Mill and prepaid assets:
During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company issued 20,261 shares of common stock as part of the acquisition of a data package related to the El Dorado project. The shares were valued at $18,235 and recorded as an asset.
On November 30, 2017, the purchase of the SDA Mill closed for the agreed upon price of US$1.5 million, consisting of $1,000,000 in cash and restricted common stock of the Company with a fair value of $426,025 on the date of issuance. Based upon the volume weighted average price per share of Magellan Gold stock for the 30 calendar days preceding the closing date 284,017 shares of stock were issued in connection with the transaction.
Stock Options and the 2017 Equity Incentive Plan:
Under the 2017 Equity Incentive Plan, the Company is authorized to grant rights to acquire up to a maximum of 200,000 shares of common stock. The 2017 Plan provides for the grant of (1) both incentive and nonstatutory stock options, (2) stock bonuses, (3) rights to purchase restricted stock and (4) stock appreciation rights.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company granted ten-year options to purchase 72,000 shares of common stock at an option exercise price of $2.00 per share, the closing price on the date of grant. The Company recognized stock-based compensation expense from stock options of $143,642 for the year ended December 31, 2017. As of December 31, 2018 the Company had 128,000 shares available for future grant.
The options were valued using the following significant assumptions:
Year ended | |
December 31, | |
2017 | |
Expected Term | 10.0 Years |
Expected Volatility | 269% |
Expected Dividends | 0.00 |
Risk-free rates | 2.07% |
F-25 |
Summary Information on Stock Option and Stock Warrants:
Stock option activity within the 2017 Equity Incentive Plan and warrant activity outside the plan, for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 is as follows:
Stock Options | Stock Warrants | |||||||||||||||
Shares | Weighted Average Exercise Price | Shares | Weighted Average Exercise Price | |||||||||||||
Outstanding at December 31, 2016 | – | $ | – | 217,000 | $ | 5.00 | ||||||||||
Granted | 72,000 | 2.00 | 25,000 | 5.00 | ||||||||||||
Cancelled | – | – | – | – | ||||||||||||
Expired | – | – | (195,000 | ) | 5.00 | |||||||||||
Exercised | – | – | (10,000 | ) | 5.00 | |||||||||||
Outstanding at December 31, 2017 | 72,000 | 2.00 | 37,000 | 5.00 | ||||||||||||
Granted | – | – | 820,000 | 2.00 | ||||||||||||
Cancelled | – | – | – | – | ||||||||||||
Expired | – | – | (257,000 | ) | 1.50 | |||||||||||
Exercised | – | – | (120,000 | ) | 1.00 | |||||||||||
Outstanding at December 31, 2018 | 72,000 | $ | 2.00 | 480,000 | $ | 2.50 | ||||||||||
Exercisable at December 31, 2018 | 72,000 | $ | 2.00 | 480,000 | $ | 2.50 |
As of December 31, 2018 the outstanding stock options have a weighted average remaining term of 8.82 years and no intrinsic value, and the outstanding stock warrants have a weighted average remaining term of 0.48 years and no intrinsic value.
Note 13 - Commitments and Contingencies
Mining Claims
As part of our acquisition of the Silver District properties from Columbus Exploration, we assumed the Red Cloud lease whose initial term expires in August 2026. The lease requires annual advance minimum royalty payments of $10,000 through the term of the lease due on the annual anniversary of the agreement. The lease is also subject to a 2% net production royalty to be paid to the lessor from the sale of precious metals extracted from the leased property. In order to maintain the BLM lode and mill site claims, annual payments are required before the end of August of each year. Payments are also due annually on two patented claims we leased in July 2015 and on our Arizona State Minerals Exploration Permit. As of December 31, 2018, all of these claims and leases are in good standing except for the two patented claims leased in 2015.
Leases
As part of our acquisition of MV2 in Mexico, we assumed the following leases payable in local currency as follows:
a) | Ejido S.D.A, 10 year lease, 6 hectares, executed January 2016, expires December 2025. Annual payments 25,000 MX pesos. Renewable for 10 years. |
b) | Silverio Medina Ozuna, 3 year lease, 1 hectare, executed May 2017, expires April 2020. Annual payments 15,000 MX pesos. Renewable for 3 year periods. |
c) | Silverio Medina Ozuna, 10 year lease, 2 hectares, executed May 2010, expires April 2020. Payment $100,000 MX pesos paid in advance at lease execution. Renewable for 10 years. |
F-26 |
The minimum future payments due on these leases are as follows for the next five years and thereafter and have been translated to US dollars using an exchange rate at December 31, 2018 of 19.65 MX pesos to US dollars:
Payment Due Date | Minimum Due ($) | |||
2019 | 2,036 | |||
2020 | 1,272 | |||
2021 | 1,272 | |||
2022 | 1,272 | |||
2023 and beyond | 3,817 |
Other contractual arrangements
On November 1, 2016 the Company executed a Finder’s Agreement (“Agreement”), with a third party consultant to introduce the Company to potential investors beginning with its November 2016 private placement offering. The term of the Agreement is six months, or until the Company informs the consultant it has located investors to purchase the securities. The consultant is to be compensated for the services by cash payments totaling $30,000, payable at or before the termination of the Agreement. As of December 31, 2018, the Company paid approximately $23,500 in total to the consultant pursuant to the Agreement, including $12,500 paid during year ended December 31, 2017 and $0 during the year ended December 31, 2018.
On October 24, 2016, the Company entered into an agreement with Rio Silver, discussed in Note 4 – Mining Option Agreement, requiring the Company to spend $2,000,000 in exploration costs over the three-year period commencing with the execution of the Agreement. Effective December 31, 2017, the Company agreed with Rio Silver to terminate the option agreement, thereby terminating the requirement for exploration cost expenditures and the Company’s option to earn an interest in the Niñobamba Silver/Gold Project.
Note 14 – Executive Employment Agreement
On June 1, 2016 we executed an employment agreement with Dr. Carson in which he assumed the positions of President and Chief Executive Officer of Magellan Gold Corporation. The agreement also provided that Dr. Carson be appointed a Director of Magellan Gold Corporation, and effective June 30, 2016, Dr. Carson was appointed a Director of Magellan. The term of the agreement covered the period from June 1, 2016 to May 31, 2017 and is subject to annual renewal. The agreement has subsequently been renewed each year and is currently effective from June 1, 2018 to May 31, 2019, with all terms of the original agreement remaining unchanged.
During the term of the agreement, Magellan agreed to pay Dr. Carson a base salary in equal semi-monthly installments less required withholding and other applicable taxes. Dr. Carson’s salary was set at $6,667 per month during the three-month period from June 1, 2016 through August 31, 2016, and thereafter at $10,000 per month. Until such time as Magellan is properly funded, Magellan may defer and accrue salary owed. If not properly funded before the end of the term, Magellan may at its option issue shares of Magellan common stock as settlement of the accrued salary liability.
Dr. Carson shall have the right to voluntarily terminate his employment with Magellan during the term. To effect such voluntary termination, Dr. Carson shall provide Magellan at least 60 days advanced written notice of such termination. Upon termination, Dr. Carson shall be paid his base salary through the date of termination, including any amount that may have been deferred and accrued.
At December 31, 2018 a total of $60,000 and $13,870 of salary and associated payroll tax obligations, respectively, is accrued in connection with the agreement and included in accrued liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
At December 31, 2017 a total of $30,000 and $2,796 of salary and associated payroll tax obligations, respectively, is accrued in connection with the agreement and included in accrued liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
F-27 |
Note 15 – Related Party Transactions
Conflicts of Interests
Athena Silver Corporation (“Athena”) is a company under common control. Mr. Power is also a director and CEO of Athena. Mr. Gibbs is a significant investor in both Magellan and Athena. Magellan and Athena are both exploration stage companies involved in the business of acquisition and exploration of mineral resources.
Silver Saddle Resources, LLC is also a company under common control. Mr. Power and Mr. Gibbs are significant investors and managing members of Silver Saddle. Magellan and Silver Saddle are both exploration stage companies involved in the business of acquisition and exploration of mineral resources.
The existence of common ownership and common management could result in significantly different operating results or financial position from those that could have resulted had Magellan, Athena and Silver Saddle been autonomous.
Management Fees
The Company previously maintained a month-to-month management agreement with Mr. Power requiring a monthly payment, in advance, of $2,500 as consideration for his services as CFO to Magellan. Effective August 31, 2017, Mr. Power resigned as CFO and Secretary of the Company and was replaced by Michael P. Martinez on September 18, 2017 to serve as CFO, Secretary and Treasurer. Mr. Power continues to serve as a member of the Board of Directors.
Management fees to Mr. Power for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, are $0 and $20,000, respectively. These fees are included in general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, $27,500 of the fees had not been paid and are included in accrued liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Management fees to Mr. Martinez for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, are $40,000 and $0, respectively. These fees are included in general and administrative expenses in our statement of operations. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, $28,000 and $0 of the fees had not been paid and are included in accounts payable on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Accrued Interest - Related Parties
Accrued interest due to related parties is included in our consolidated balance sheets as follows:
December 31, 2018 | December 31, 2017 | |||||||
Accrued interest payable - Mr. Gibbs | $ | 340,218 | $ | 221,103 | ||||
Accrued interest payable - Mr. Power | 76,504 | 16,562 | ||||||
Accrued interest payable - Dr. Carson | 3,736 | 986 | ||||||
$ | 420,458 | $ | 238,651 |
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we paid a total of $12,357 to Mr. Power representing unpaid accrued interest on notes payable. During the year ended December 31, 2017, we paid a total of $382 to Mr. Power representing unpaid accrued interest on notes payable.
F-28 |
Advances Payable – Related Party
We borrowed and repaid non-interest bearing advances from/to related parties as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 2018 | ||||||||||||
Advances | Repayments (including transfers) | Balance | ||||||||||
Mr. Power | 19,300 | 19,300 | $ | – | ||||||||
Mr. Carson | – | 8,100 | – | |||||||||
Totals | $ | 19,300 | $ | 27,400 | $ | – |
Year Ended December 31, 2017 | ||||||||||||
Advances | Repayments (including transfers) | Balance | ||||||||||
Mr. Power | $ | 26,050 | $ | 26,050 | $ | – | ||||||
Mr. Carson | 8,100 | – | 8,100 | |||||||||
Totals | $ | 34,150 | $ | 26,050 | $ | 8,100 |
In addition to the above, during the year ended December 31, 2017, Mr. Power loaned the Company $25,000 in a short term note that was subsequently transferred into the Series 2017 Notes. Mr. Power used personal credit cards during the year ended December 31, 2018 to fund Company operations. During 2018 a total of $125,945 was charged on the credit cards and $101,181 was repaid by the Company. As of December 31, 2018, a balance of $24,764 remained outstanding and is included in Advances payable, related party.
Note 16 – Income Taxes
Our net operating loss carry forward as of December 31, 2018 was approximately $6,850,000, which may be used to offset future income taxes through 2038. Our net operating loss carry forward as of December 31, 2017 was $5,162,768. Included in these numbers are loss carry-forwards of $2,320,171 that were obtained through the acquisition of Minerales Vane 2, S.A. de C.V. Our reconciliation between the expected federal income tax benefit computed by applying the federal statutory rate to our net loss and the actual benefit for taxes on net loss for 2018 and 2017 is as follows:
Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||
2018 | 2017 | |||||||
Expected federal income tax benefit at statutory rate | 407,997 | 458,525 | ||||||
State taxes | 38,324 | 31,628 | ||||||
Change in valuation allowance | (446,321 | ) | (490,153 | ) | ||||
Income tax benefit | $ | – | $ | – |
Our deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 were as follows:
December 31, | ||||||||
2018 | 2017 | |||||||
Deferred tax asset | 1,838,816 | 1,392,495 | ||||||
Valuation allowance | (1,838,816 | ) | (1,392,495 | ) | ||||
Deferred tax assets, net of allowance | $ | – | $ | – |
Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. We have provided a valuation allowance of 100% of our net deferred tax asset due to the uncertainty of generating future profits that would allow us to realize our deferred tax assets. Tax returns filed for the years 2015 through 2017 are open for examination from taxing authorities.
On December 22, 2017, the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "Tax Reform Act") was signed into law by President Trump. The Tax Reform Act significantly revised the U.S. corporate income tax regime by, among other things, lowering the U.S. corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018. Under ASC 740, the tax effects of changes in tax laws must be recognized in the period in which the law was enacted. ASC 740 also requires deferred tax assets and liabilities to be measured at the enacted tax rate expected to apply when temporary differences are to be realized or settled. The Company re-measured its deferred tax assets and liabilities at the 21% federal corporate tax rate.
F-29 |
Note 17 – Subsequent Events
On January 3, 2019, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) informed Magellan Gold Corporation, a Nevada corporation (the “Company”) that a 1-for-50 reverse split of the Company’s common stock, previously disclosed in the Company’s Definitive Information Statement on Schedule 14C filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on September 22, 2017, would be effective at the market open on January 7, 2019. The stock split has been retroactively adjusted throughout these financial statements and footnotes.
In January 2019 the Company issued Mr. Martinez 14,118 shares in settlement of liabilities for services provided in 2018.
In January 2019 the Company issued 7,574 shares in satisfaction of accounts payable for services rendered in 2017.
Effective January 1, 2019 the Company entered into an investor relations agreement and committed to issue a total of 40,000 shares in exchange for a two year service period. In the first quarter of 2019 all 40,000 shares were issued under this agreement.
In January 2019 the Company and Rose Petroleum entered into an agreement whereby any and all obligations of Magellan or its subsidiaries to make truck installment purchase payments shall be deemed satisfied in full, and Magellan shall be deemed released from any further liability therefor. The personal guaranty of W. Pierce Carson under the provisions of the IVA Agreement dated November 30, 2017 shall be deemed released and discharged.
In January 2019, the Company issued 30,000 shares of common stock in exchange for $30,000 to one investor. The investor had previously subscribed to purchase the shares.
In the first quarter of 2019 Mr. Gibbs was issued 30,594 and Mr. Powers was issued 14,965 shares of common stock related to the price protection feature discussed in Note 12.
In the first quarter of 2019 Mr. Carson was issued 20,000 shares of common stock for services pursuant to the vesting terms from the July 24, 2018 issuance discussed in Note 12.
In the first quarter of 2019 Mr. Gibbs and Mr. Power advanced $90,000 and $28,500 to the Company, respectively. In addition $20,000 was received from a third party with the intention to convert to a note payable of which the terms are still being finalized.
Effective April 1, 2019 the Company entered into an investor relations agreement and committed to issue a total of 100,000 shares in exchange for a 6 month service period. All 100,000 shares have been issued under this agreement.
In April 2019 the Company issued 7,000 shares to consultants in satisfaction for services rendered in 2019.
F-30 |
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this annual report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
MAGELLAN GOLD CORPORATION | |
Date: April 12, 2019 |
By: /s/ W. Pierce Carson W. Pierce Carson, President, Principal Executive Officer, & Director |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATE | |||
/s/ Michael P. Martinez |
Principal Accounting Officer | April 12, 2019 | |||
Michael P. Martinez | |||||
/s/ W. Pierce Carson | Principal Executive Officer & Director | April 12, 2019 | |||
W. Pierce Carson | |||||
/s/ John C. Power | Director | April 12, 2019 | |||
John C. Power |
72 |